4-170-535-12(1) Table of contents HDR-CX550E/CX550VE/ XR550E/XR550VE Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Getting started 12 Recording/Playback 21 Making good use of your camcorder 44 Saving images with an external device 57 Customizing your camcorder 66 Additional information 91 “Handycam” Handbook Quick reference 2010 Sony Corporation 9 119
Read this first Supplied items The numbers in ( ) are the supplied quantity. AC Adaptor (1) Power cord (Mains lead) (1) Component A/V cable (1) A/V connecting cable (1) USB cable (1) Wireless Remote Commander (1) A button-type lithium battery is already installed. Remove the insulation sheet before using the Wireless Remote Commander.
Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take images of the sun only in low light conditions, such as at dusk. About language setting The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen language before using the camcorder if necessary (p. 17).
Note on the camcorder/battery pack temperature When the temperature of the camcorder or battery pack becomes extremely high or extremely low, you may not be able to record or play back on the camcorder, due to the protection features of the camcorder being activated in such situations. In this case, an indicator appears on the LCD screen and the viewfinder (p. 98).
Notes on use Do not do any of the following. Otherwise, the recording media may be damaged, recorded images may be impossible to play back or may be lost, or other malfunctions could occur. ejecting the memory card when the access lamp (p. 20) is lit or flashing removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor from the camcorder, or applying mechanical shock or vibration to the camcorder when the (Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 21) or the access lamp (p.
Operation flow Getting started (p. 12) Prepare the power source and memory card. Recording movies and photos (p. 21) Recording movies p. 22 Changing the recording mode (p. 28) Expected recording time (MEDIA INFO, p. 85) Shooting photos p. 24 Playing movies and photos Playback on the camcorder p. 33 Playing images on a TV p. 41 Saving images Saving movies and photos with a computer Saving movies and photos in external media p. 57 Saving images with a DVD writer/recorder p.
Advice for successful recording To get good results in recording Stabilizing your camcorder When you hold the camcorder, keep your upper body upright, and hold your arms close to your body. The SteadyShot function is effective against camera-shake, however, it is essential that you not move the camcorder. Zooming smoothly Zoom in and out slowly and smoothly. And, use zooming sparingly. Excessive zooming will make movies that may make the viewer feel tired when viewing them.
Useful recording techniques GB Capturing images beautifully without troublesome setting Focusing on the child on the left side of the screen INTELLIGENT AUTO(26) Prioritizing the subject(28) SPOT FOCUS(73) Capturing photos during movie recording Recording in a dimly-lit room Dual Rec(30) Smile Shutter (29) NightShot(30) LOW LUX(77) Capturing fireworks, or a sunset in all its splendor Checking your golf swing FIREWORKS(71) SUNRISE&SUNSET(71) GOLF SHOT(75) SMTH SLW REC(75)
Table of contents Read this first.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Notes on use.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Operation flow.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Playing images on a TV.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Using “BRAVIA” Sync.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Menu lists.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SHOOTING SET (Items for customized shooting).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos).. . . .
Getting started Step 1: Charging the battery pack HDR-CX550E/CX550VE Battery pack /CHG (flash/charge) lamp DC IN jack AC Adaptor DC plug Power cord (Mains lead) To the wall outlet (wall socket) HDR-XR550E/XR550VE Battery pack /CHG (flash/charge) lamp DC IN jack AC Adaptor DC plug Power cord (Mains lead) To the wall outlet (wall socket) GB 12
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your camcorder. Notes You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder. 1 2 3 Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen after replacing the viewfinder. Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
To remove the battery pack Close the LCD screen. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever () and remove the battery pack (). To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack.” Even if the battery pack is attached, the battery pack is not discharged. Charging the battery pack abroad You can charge the battery pack in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the AC 100 V - 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time 1 Open the LCD screen of your camcorder. Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened. To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER. MODE lamp POWER button / Getting started 2 Select the desired geographical area with , then touch [NEXT]. Touch the button on the LCD screen 3 To set the date and time again, touch (MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG] [GENERAL SET] category) [CLOCK SET].
Notes The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the recording media, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, touch [PLAYBACK] category) [DATA (MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under . CODE] [DATE/TIME] You can turn off the operation beeps by touching (MENU) [Show others] [SOUND/DISP [GENERAL SET] category) [BEEP] [OFF] .
Changing the language setting You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. (MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under [GENERAL SET] Touch .
Step 3: Preparing the recording media The recording media that can be used differs depending on your camcorder. The following icons are displayed on the screen of your camcorder. HDR-CX550E/CX550VE * Internal memory HDR-XR550E/XR550VE * Internal hard disk Memory card Memory card * In the default setting, both movies and photos are recorded on this recording media. You can perform recording, playback and editing operations on the selected medium. Tips See page 104 for the recordable time of movies.
Touch [YES] . The recording medium is changed. To check the recording media settings In either movie recording mode or photo recording mode, the media icon of the selected recording media is displayed at the top right corner of the screen. Recording media icon The icon displayed may vary depending on your model. Getting started Inserting a memory card Notes Set the recording medium to [MEMORY CARD] to record movies and/or photos on a memory card.
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, half the size of “Memory Stick”, or standard size SD cards can be used for this camcorder. Do not attach a label or the like on memory card or memory card adaptor. Doing so may cause a malfunction. Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the nothched edge in the direction as illustrated until it clicks. Close the cover after inserting the memory card. Note direction of notched corner. Access lamp The [Create a new Image Database File.
Recording/Playback Recording In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD) on the following media. HDR-CX550E/CX550VE: Internal memory HDR-XR550E/XR550VE: Internal hard disk Tips To change the recording media, see page 18. 1 Fasten the grip belt. Recording/Playback 2 Open the LCD screen of your camcorder. Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened. To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER (p. 15).
Recording movies Press START/STOP to start recording. You can start recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen. START/STOP button [STBY] [REC] To stop recording, press START/STOP again. You can stop recording also by touching in the bottom left of LCD screen. The icons and indicators on the LCD panel will be displayed for about 3 seconds, then disappear after turning on your camcorder or switching the recording (movie/photo)/playback modes.
It will take several seconds until you can start recording after you turn on the camcorder. You cannot operate your camcorder during this time. The following states will be indicated if data is still being written onto the recording media after recording has finished. During this time, do not apply shock or vibration to the camcorder, or remove the battery or AC Adaptor. Access lamp (p.
Data code during recording The recording date, time and condition , and coordinates (HDR-CX550VE/XR550VE) are recorded automatically on the recording media. They are not displayed during recording. However, you can check them as [DATA CODE] during playback. To display them, touch (MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under [PLAYBACK] category) . [DATA CODE] a desired setting Shooting photos In the default setting, photos are recorded on the following recording media.
Tips See page 105 on the recordable number of photos. (MENU) [Show others] [ IMAGE SIZE] (under To change the image size, touch . [PHOTO SETTINGS] category) a desired setting is displayed. You cannot record photos while Your camcorder flashes automatically when there is insufficient ambient light. The flash does not work (MENU) [Show in the movie recording mode. You can change how your camcorder flashes by [PHOTO SETTINGS] category) a desired setting others] [FLASH MODE] (under .
Useful functions for recording movies and photos Zooming You can magnify images up to 14 times the original size with the power zoom lever. You can magnify images also with the / on the LCD screen. The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 31 1/2 in.) for telephoto. You can magnify images up to 10 times using optical zooming, unless [ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ACTIVE].
Scene detection (Backlight), (Landscape), (Twilight), (Spotlight), (Low light), (Macro) The camcorder selects the most effective setting automatically, depending on the scene. Camera-shake detection (Walk), (Tripod) The camcorder detects whether camerashake occurs or not, and makes the optimum compensation. To cancel INTELLIGENT AUTO Press . or the detection mode icons disappear, and you can record with the preferred settings.
Tips You can record, play, or edit movies in the selected image quality only. To record, play, or edit movies in another image quality, change this setting. Selecting the recording mode You can select a recording mode to record the high definition image quality (HD) movies from 4 levels. The recording time of the media is changed depending on recording mode. Long time recording Touch a desired setting.
Touch the face you want to record as priority. Notes Smiles may not be detected depending on recording conditions, subject conditions, and the setting of your camcorder. REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you When [ cannot use the Smile Shutter function. Tips You can select the subject that has priority for face detection and smile detection with [PRIORITY SETTING] (p. 78).
To enjoy the 5.1ch surround sound of the movies recorded with high definition image quality (HD) in 5.1ch sound, you need an AVCHD format device compatible with 5.1ch surround. When you connect your camcorder with an HDMI cable (sold separately), the sound of high definition image quality (HD) movies recorded in 5.1ch sound is automatically output in 5.1ch sound. The sound of standard definition image quality (STD) movies is converted to 2ch. Tips You can select the recording sound from [5.
Recording in mirror mode Press MANUAL to activate the manual adjustment mode. Pressing MANUAL switches the setting mode between automatic and manual. Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (). Items you can assign to the MANUAL dial Controlling the image settings manually with the MANUAL dial You can assign 1 menu item you use often to the MANUAL dial.
Notes Manual settings will be retained even if you change the assigned item of the MANUAL dial. However, if you set [EXPOSURE] after setting [AE SHIFT] manually, [EXPOSURE] will override [AE SHIFT]. If you set either one of [EXPOSURE], [IRIS], or [SHUTTER SPEED], the settings of other 2 items are canceled. If you select [RESET] in step , all the items adjusted manually are reset to the default settings.
Playback on the camcorder In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the following recording media are played. HDR-CX550E/CX550VE: Internal memory HDR-XR550E/XR550VE: Internal hard disk Tips To change the recording media, see page 18. 1 2 Open the LCD screen of your camcorder. Your camcorder is turned on and the lens cover is opened. To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER (p.15). (VIEW IMAGES).
/ : Displays movies recorded on the previous/next date.* / : Displays the previous/next movie. Returns to the recording screen. * is displayed when is touched. appears when the standard definition image quality (STD) movie is selected with [ / SET] (p. 27). You can scroll the display by touching and dragging or . appears with the movie or photo that was most recently played or recorded. If you touch the movie or photo with , you can continue playback from the previous time.
To adjust the sound volume of movies While playing back movies, touch adjust with You can also adjust the sound volume by using / / in the OPTION MENU. . Viewing photos Your camcorder displays the selected photo. Previous To start/stop slide show To the VISUAL INDEX screen Next OPTION MENU Tips When viewing photos recorded on the memory card, (playback folder) appears on the screen.
Useful functions for playing movies and photos Searching for desired images by date (Date Index) You can search for desired images by date efficiently. Notes You cannot use the Date Index function for photos on the memory card. Press (VIEW IMAGES). The VISUAL INDEX screen appears. Touch [DATE INDEX]. Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen IMAGES] (under [PLAYBACK] category) [DATE INDEX].
Tips You can also display the Film Roll Index by (MENU) [Show others] touching [PLAYBACK] [VIEW IMAGES] (under category) [ FILM ROLL]. Searching for desired scene by face (Face Index) The face images detected or touched during movie recording are displayed on the INDEX screen. You can play back the movie from the selected face image. Press (VIEW IMAGES). Touch [ FACE]. Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen / to select the Touch desired movie.
To stop Highlight Playback To pause, touch To stop, touch . or . To change the settings for Highlight Playback After touching [ HIGHLIGHT], touch [HIGHLIGHT SET] before the Highlight Playback starts. You can set following items. [PLAYBACK RANGE] Set the range of movies to be played by selecting .
To erase the saved Highlight Playback scenario Touch (MENU) [Show others] [EDIT] [ SCENARIO ERASE] (under category) [ERASE] and select a scenario / , then touch you want to erase with [YES] . To erase all scenarios, touch (MENU) [Show others] [ SCENARIO ERASE] [EDIT] category) [ERASE ALL] (under . [YES] [YES] You can erase also by touching (OPTION) during Highlight Scenario Playback or on the scenario selection screen.
Adjust the magnification with W (Wide angle)/T (Telephoto). To cancel, touch . Playing back a series of photos (Slide show) Touch screen. on the photo playback The slide show begins from the selected photo. To stop the slide show Touch . To restart the slide show Touch again. Notes You cannot operate playback zoom during slide show. Tips You can set continuous slide show playback (OPTION) tab by selecting [SLIDE SHOW SET] while playing photos.
Playing images on a TV Connection methods and the image quality (high definition (HD) or standard definition (STD)) viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the connectors used. / to select the input Touch jack of your TV, then touch . Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide] You can connect your camcorder to the TV easily following the instructions displayed on the LCD screen, [TV CONNECT Guide]. Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.
Play back movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 33).
definition image quality (STD) movies are converted to 2ch sound. When you connect with A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO When the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) is connected, audio signals are not output. To output audio signals, connect the white and red plugs to the audio input jack of your TV. This connection produces higher resolution images compared with the A/V connecting cable.
Making good use of your camcorder Deleting movies and photos You can free media space by deleting movies and photos from recording media. Notes You cannot restore images once they are deleted. Save important movies and photos in advance. Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while deleting the images. It may damage the recording media. Do not eject memory card while deleting images from the memory card. You cannot delete protected movies and photos.
In step 2, touch [ DELETE] DELETE by date]/[ DELETE [ by date]. To delete all photos on the same day at one time, touch [ DELETE] [ DELETE by date]. Protecting recorded movies and photos (Protect) Protect movies and photos to avoid deleting them by mistake. Tips You can protect movies and photos on the OPTION MENU. playback screen from 1 Touch (MENU) [Show others] [PROTECT] (under [EDIT] category). Touch / to select the recording date of the desired movies/photos, then .
Dividing a movie To protect all the movies and photos recorded on the same day at one time Notes You cannot select [ PRT. by date] for still images recorded on the memory card. 1 Touch (MENU) [Show others] [ DIVIDE] (under [EDIT] category). 2 3 Touch the movie to be divided. In step 2, touch [ PROTECT] PRT. by date]/[ PRT. by date]. [ To protect all photos on the same day at one time, touch [ PROTECT] [ PRT. by date]. The selected movie starts playback.
Capturing a photo from a movie dividing movies on the memory card. A slight difference may occur from the point and the actual dividing where you touch point, as your camcorder selects the dividing point based on about half-second increments. If you divide the original movie, the movie added to the Playlist will also be divided. If the divided movie is included in the saved Highlight Playback scenario (p. 38), the movie is deleted from the scenario.
5 Touch . Notes The image size is fixed depending on the image quality of the movie: 2.1M] with high definition image quality [ (HD) 0.2M] in 16:9 (wide) with standard [ definition image quality (STD) [VGA(0.3M)] in 4:3 with standard definition image quality (STD) The recording medium where you want to save photos should have enough free space. The recording date and time of captured photos is the same as the recording date and time of the movies.
Touch the type of dubbing. [DUB by select]: To select movies and dub [DUB by date]: To dub all movies of a specified date DUB ALL]: To dub the high [ definition image quality (HD) Playlist DUB ALL]: To dub the standard [ definition image quality (STD) Playlist When you select the Playlist as the source of dubbing, follow the on-screen instructions to dub the Playlist. Select the movie to be dubbed.
Using the Playlist of movies Select the photo to be copied. [COPY by select]: Touch the photo to be copied, and mark with . You can select multiple photos. The Playlist is a list showing thumbnails of the movies that you have selected. The original movies are not changed even if you edit or erase the movies added to the Playlist. Creating the Playlist Notes High definition image quality (HD) movies and standard definition image quality (STD) movies are added to an individual Playlist.
To add all the movies recorded on the same day at one time In step 2, touch [ ADD by date]/ ADD by date]. [ The recording dates of movies are displayed on the screen. Touch / to select the recording date of the desired movie, then touch . Touch the image on the LCD screen to to return confirm the image. Touch to the previous screen. Touch [YES] .
Touch . [YES] Using the GPS function (HDR-CX550VE/ XR550VE) What is GPS? Tips Even if you erase a movie from a Playlist, the original movie is not deleted. To change the order within the Playlist Touch (MENU) [Show others] [PLAYLIST EDIT] (under [EDIT] category). MOVE]/[ MOVE]. Touch [ Select the movie to be moved. The selected movie is marked with . Touch the image on the LCD screen to to return confirm the image. Touch to the previous screen. Touch .
Setting the GPS function Set the GPS switch to ON ( appears on the LCD screen). Your camcorder starts trying to triangulate. When your camcorder triangulates successfully, it will record the location information at the time movies and photos were recorded. Notes Use the GPS function in outdoors. The camcorder may not be able to receive radio signals in places where radio signals are blocked or reflected, such as indoors or a place surrounded by buildings or trees.
Acquiring the current location information You can display the current location on a map. Set the GPS switch to ON so that your camcorder can acquire the current location information. Touch ( YOUR LOCATION) on the recording screen. To display the current location on a map, touch on the screen during triangulation. the When triangulation is unsuccessful, the map shows the default setting location or a location acquired previously. If you hold a certain point, the map keeps scrolling.
The point you touch on the map scrolls to the center automatically. If you hold a certain point, the map keeps scrolling. will appear at the upper right corner of the thumbnail of the movie or photo without location information. Touch the image marker where you recorded the movies and photos to be played back. Notes The map always displays the north at the top.
Adjusting the clock and the area automatically (AUTO CLOCK ADJ/ AUTO AREA ADJ) Your camcorder can maintain accurate time and compensate for time difference automatically, by acquiring time and location information from GPS. (MENU) [Show Touch others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under [GENERAL SET] category) [AUTO CLOCK ADJ]/[AUTO AREA ADJ]. Touch a desired setting . Notes You must set the date and time on your camcorder before using your camcorder (p. 15).
Saving images with an external device Saving images in external media (DIRECT COPY) You can save movies and photos on external media (USB storage device), such as an external hard disk drive. You can also play back images on the camcorder or another playback device. Tips You can import images saved in the external media by using the supplied software “PMB.” Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
6 This screen will appear only when there are newly recorded images. After the operation is completed, on the camcorder touch screen. Notes The number of scenes you can save on the external media are as follows. However, even if the external media has free space, you cannot save scenes exceeding the following number. High definition image quality (HD) movies: Max.
Creating a disc with a DVD writer, recorder To play back images in the external media on the camcorder Touch [Play without copying.] in step 5 above. The VISUAL INDEX screen of the external media is displayed. Play back the image (p. 33). You can also view images on a TV connected to your camcorder (p. 41). You can play back the high definition image quality (HD) movies on your computer using [Player for AVCHD].
Ordinary DVD device Player DVD player Computer that can play DVDs, etc. Creating device DVD writer, DVDirect Express (p. 60) DVD writer, other than DVDirect Express (p. 63) Disc recorder, etc. (p. 64) Disc type Standard definition image quality (STD) disc Notes Always maintain your PlayStation3 to use the latest version of the PlayStation3 system software. The PlayStation3 may not be available in some countries/regions.
Insert an unused disc into the DVD writer, and close the disc tray. The [DISC BURN] screen appears on the camcorder screen. Press writer. Perform this operation in the following cases: When When disc dubbing a desired image creating multiple copies of the same When (DISC BURN) on the DVD Movies recorded on the internal recording media that have not been saved on any discs will be recorded onto the disc.
Touch screen. [YES] on the camcorder To create another disc of the same contents, insert a new disc and touch [CREATE SAME DISC]. After the operation is completed, touch [EXIT] [END] on the camcorder screen. Disconnect the USB cable from your camcorder. Notes Do not do any of the following when creating a disc.
To play back a disc on the ordinary DVD player Select the standard image quality (STD) on the screen to select the image quality of the disc to be created in step 2 of “To customize a disc with DISC BURN OPTION.” Turn on your camcorder, and connect a DVD writer, etc. to the (USB) jack of your camcorder with the USB cable (supplied). Tips If you cannot play back created standard definition (STD) image quality discs on any DVD player, connect the camcorder to the DVD writer, and then play back.
After the operation is completed, touch [END] [YES] on the camcorder screen. Disconnect the USB cable. cable. Connect the white and red plug (left/right audio) and the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of the A/V connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable. If you connect the S VIDEO plug only, you will hear no sound. The yellow plug (video) connection is not necessary. A/V Remote Connector Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc with a recorder, etc.
Connect your camcorder to the recording device (a disc recorder, etc.) with the A/V connecting cable (supplied) or an A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold separately). Connect your camcorder to the input jacks of the recording device. Start playback on your camcorder, and record it on the recording device. OUTPUT] [V-OUT/PANEL] . When the screen size of display devices (TV, (MENU) [Show etc.
Customizing your camcorder Using menus Using the menus, you can perform useful functions and change various settings. If you make good use of menu operations, you can enjoy using your camcorder. The camcorder has various menu items under each of eight menu categories. MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition) p. 71 SHOOTING SET (Items for customized shooting) p. 76 PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos) p. 80 PLAYBACK (Items for playback) p. 82 EDIT (Items for editing) p.
Notes You may not be able to set some menu items, depending on the recording or playback conditions. Grayed out menu items or settings are not available. Tips Depending on the menu items being changed, your camcorder switches between playback mode and recording mode (movie/photo). Using MY MENU You can use the menu items more easily by registering the menu items you use most often on MY MENU. You can register 6 menu items on each MY MENU of the MOVIE, PHOTO, and PLAYBACK.
Using the OPTION MENU The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click is displayed at bottom-right of the screen, you can use the mouse on a computer. When , and the menu items you can change in the context the OPTION MENU. You touch appear. Menu item Tab Touch (OPTION). Touch the desired tab the item to change the setting. . After completing the setting, touch Notes Grayed out menu items or settings are not available.
Menu lists (MANUAL SETTINGS) category SCENE SELECTION FADER WHITE BAL. SPOT MTR/FCS SPOT METER SPOT FOCUS EXPOSURE FOCUS TELE MACRO AE SHIFT WB SHIFT GOLF SHOT SMTH SLW REC 71 71 72 73 73 73 73 74 74 74 75 75 75 (SHOOTING SET) category 27 28 76 77 77 77 77 78 78 78 SELF-TIMER IMAGE SIZE STEADYSHOT FLASH MODE FLASH LEVEL REDEYE REDUC FILE NO.
PHOTO COPY COPY by select 49 COPY by date PLAYLIST EDIT ADD/ 49 ADD 50 ADD by date/ ERASE/ ADD by date 51 ERASE ERASE ALL/ MOVE/ 51 ERASE ALL MOVE 51 52 (OTHERS) category YOUR LOCATION* USB CONNECT USB CONNECT*2 54 63 USB CONNECT* 63 USB CONNECT 63 1 3 DISC BURN Operating Guide TV CONNECT Guide MUSIC TOOL EMPTY MUSIC DOWNLOAD MUSIC BATTERY INFO 41 39 39 84 (MANAGE MEDIA) category GB 35, 86 BEEP 86 LCD BRIGHT 86 LCD BL LEVEL 86 LCD COLOR 87 DISPLAY SET 87 OUTPUT SETTINGS
MANUAL SETTINGS (Items to adjust for scene condition) PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( ) Brings out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background. See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . SPOTLIGHT**( ) SCENE SELECTION Prevents people’s faces from appearing excessively white when subjects are lit by strong light. You can record images effectively in various situations.
WHITE FADER INDOOR () Fades in/out with the white effect. Out The white balance is appropriately adjusted for the following recording conditions: Indoors At party scenes or studios where the lighting conditions change quickly Under video lamps in a studio, or under sodium lamps or incandescent-like color lamps In BLACK FADER Fades in/out with the black effect. Out In ONE PUSH ( To cancel the fader before starting the operation, touch [OFF].
from inside the house, or vice versa, you need to redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure to readjust the white balance. SPOT MTR/FCS (Spot meter/ focus) You can adjust the brightness and focus for the selected subject simultaneously. This function enables you to use [SPOT METER] (p. 73) and [SPOT FOCUS] (p. 73) at the same time. Touch the subject in the frame of which you want to adjust the brightness and focus. To adjust the brightness and focus automatically, touch [AUTO].
FOCUS You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus on a certain subject intentionally. TELE MACRO This is useful to shoot small subjects, such as flowers or insects. You can blur out backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer. OFF Cancels TELE MACRO. (TELE MACRO is also canceled when you move the zoom lever to the W side.) Touch (nearby subject)/ (distant subject) to adjust the focus. To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO].
You can also adjust manually by using the MANUAL dial (p. 31). WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift) You can adjust the white balance manually. OFF Adjusts the white balance automatically. ON ( and the adjustment value) Adjusts the white balance manually. recording time period is automatically adjusted according to that moment. Notes The size of photos becomes 1,920 1,080. You cannot record sound. Image quality is not as good as that of normal recording.
SHOOTING SET To change the setting Touch (OPTION), then select the setting you want to change. [TIMING] Select the recording start point after START/STOP is pressed. The default setting is [3sec AFTER]. The point when START/STOP is pressed. [3sec AFTER] (Items for customized shooting) See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . / SET See page 27. REC MODE (Recording mode) See page 28. GUIDEFRAME [3sec BEFORE] Notes You cannot record sound.
[OFF], you cannot also set [FLASH MODE] (p. 81). STEADYSHOT You can compensate for camera shake. Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (sold separately), then the image becomes natural. ACTIVE Provides a more powerful SteadyShot effect. LOW LUX You can record bright color images, even in dim light. OFF The LOW LUX function is not used. STANDARD ON ( ) Provides the SteadyShot effect under relatively stable recording conditions. OFF ( ) The SteadyShot function is not used.
The detected faces are recorded in Face Index, however, some faces may not be. Also, there is a limit to the number of faces that can be recorded in Face Index. To play back from the Face Index, see page 37. PRIORITY SETTING Selects the priority subject for the face detection or the smile shutter. Adjusts focus/color/exposure automatically for the selected faces. AUTO Detects faces automatically. CHILD PRIORITY Detects with priority on a child’s face.
LOW ( ) AUTO BACK LIGHT Records ambient sound faithfully. Select [LOW] when you want to record an exciting and powerful sound in a concert hall, etc. (This setting is not suitable for recording conversations.) Your camcorder adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically. ON Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically. AUDIO MODE OFF You can change the recording sound format. Does not adjust the exposure for backlit subjects. 5.1ch SURROUND ( ) Records sound in 5.
PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos) X.V.COLOR You can capture wider range of colors. Various colors such as the brilliant color of flowers and turquoise blue of the sea can be more faithfully reproduced. Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV. OFF Records in ordinary color range. ON ( See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . SELF-TIMER Press PHOTO to start the count down. A photo is recorded after about 10 seconds.
STEADYSHOT You can compensate for camera shake. Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (sold separately), then the image becomes natural. ON The SteadyShot function is used. OFF ( ) FLASH LEVEL You can set this function when you record photos using the built-in flash, or an external flash (sold separately) that is compatible with your camcorder.
PLAYBACK (Items for playback) FILE NO. (File number) You can select the way to assign file number of photos. SERIES Assigns file numbers of photos in sequence. The file number becomes larger each time you record a photo. Even if the memory card is replaced with another one, the file number is assigned in sequence. See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. VISUAL INDEX See page 33. VIEW IMAGES DATE INDEX See page 36.
OFF Data code is not displayed. DATE/TIME Displays the date and time. CAMERA DATA Displays camera setting data. Aperture value Exposure Flash COORDINATES (HDR-CX550VE/ XR550VE) See page 55. COORDINATES* Displays coordinates. * HDR-CX550VE/XR550VE DATE/TIME Tips The data code is displayed on the TV screen if you connect your camcorder to a TV.
EDIT OTHERS (Items for editing) (Items for other settings) See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . DELETE See page 44. SCENARIO ERASE See page 39. PROTECT See page 45. DIVIDE See page 46. PHOTO CAPTURE See page 47. MOVIE DUB See page 48. YOUR LOCATION (HDRCX550VE/XR550VE) See page 52. USB CONNECT See page 63. TV CONNECT Guide See page 41. MUSIC TOOL See page 39.
MANAGE MEDIA (Items for recording media) the memory card from your camcorder (The access lamp is lit or flashing while formatting memory card.). See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. MEDIA SETTINGS See page 18. MEDIA INFO You can check the remaining recordable time for each recording mode of the recording media for movies and the approximate free and used media space of the recording media. To turn off the display Touch .
GENERAL SET (Other setup items) REPAIR IMG.DB F. See page 96, 101. See “Using menus” (p. 66) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . SOUND/DISP SET VOLUME You can adjust the volume of playback / . sound by touching BEEP ON A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel. OFF Cancels the melody. LCD BRIGHT You can adjust the brightness of the LCD / . screen by touching Tips This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way.
to the camcorder body, the setting becomes [NORMAL] automatically. Tips This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way. LCD COLOR You can adjust the color of the LCD screen / . by touching Tips This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way. OUTPUT SETTINGS TV TYPE You need to convert the signal depending on the TV connected when playing back movies and photos. The recorded movies and photos are played back as following illustrations.
COMPONENT Select [COMPONENT] when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack. 576i Select this when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack. 1080i/576i Select this when connecting your camcorder to a TV that has the component input jack and is capable of displaying the 1080i signal. HDMI RESOLUTION Select the output image resolution when connecting your camcorder to a TV with an HDMI cable (sold separately).
AUTO AREA ADJ (Auto area adjustment) (HDR-CX550VE/XR550VE) OTHER SETTINGS See page 56. DEMO MODE SUMMERTIME When your camcorder is connected to a wall outlet (wall socket), a demonstration movie appear about 10 minutes after you turn on the (Movie) lamp by pressing MODE. You can change this setting without stopping the clock. Set to [ON] to move the time forward 1 hour. OFF Does not set the summertime. ON The demonstration appears. ON OFF Sets the summertime.
DROP SENSOR (HDR-XR550E/ XR550VE) Your camcorder detects that it is dropping, and protects the internal hard disk. ON Activates the drop sensor. When it is detected that the camcorder is dropping, you may not be able to record or play back images correctly, to protect the internal hard disk. appears. When dropping is detected, OFF ( ) Deactivates the drop sensor. Notes Set the drop sensor to [ON] when you use the camcorder.
Additional information Troubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder, follow the steps below. Check the list (p. 91 to 102), and inspect your camcorder. Disconnect the power source, attach the power source again after about 1 minute, and turn the camcorder on. Press RESET (p. 122) using a pointed object, and turn the camcorder on. If you press RESET, all settings, including the clock setting, are reset.
The menu settings have changed automatically. The following menu items return to the default settings in more than 12 hours after you close the LCD screen. [SCENE SELECTION] [WHITE BAL.
The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time. The ambient temperature is too high or too low. This is not a malfunction. The battery pack has not been charged enough. Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, replace the battery pack with a new one (p. 113). The indicated time may not be correct depending on the environment of use. The battery pack is quickly discharged. The ambient temperature is too high or low. This is not a malfunction.
cannot make new recording during this period. The recording media is full. Delete unnecessary images (p. 44). Total number of movie scenes or photos exceeds the recordable capacity of your camcorder (p. 104, 105). Delete unnecessary images (p. 44). While [DROP SENSOR] is activated (p. 90), you may not record images. (HDR-XR550E/ XR550VE) The temperature of your camcorder is extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and leave it for a while in a cool place.
The horizontal to vertical ratio of the movie (16:9 (wide)/4:3) cannot be changed. The horizontal to vertical ratio of high definition image quality (HD) movies is 16:9 (wide). The auto focus does not function. Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 74). The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 74). SteadyShot does not function. Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [ACTIVE] or [STANDARD], [ STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 77, 81).
Photos cannot be played back. Photos cannot be played back if you have modified files or folders, or have edited the data on a computer. (The file name flashes in that case.) This is not a malfunction. is indicated on an image on the VISUAL INDEX screen. This may appear on an image recorded on other devices, edited on a computer, etc.
Playlist. Erase unnecessary movies from the Playlist (p. 51). You cannot add photos in the Playlist. A movie cannot be divided. A movie that is too short cannot be divided. A protected movie cannot be divided. The image appears distorted on the 4:3 TV. A photo cannot be captured from a movie. The recording media where you want to save photos is full. Playback on the TV Neither image nor sound is played on the connected TV.
The current location on the map of the camcorder is different from the actual current location. Cannot use Because of following settings [FACE DETECTION] NightShot, [GOLF SHOT], [SMTH SLW REC], [ DIGITAL ZOOM], [SPOT MTR/FCS], [SPOT METER], [SPOT FOCUS], [EXPOSURE], [FOCUS], [TWILIGHT], [SUNRISE&SUNSET], [FIREWORKS], [LANDSCAPE], [SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH], [SNOW], [WHITE BAL.
(High temperature warning) C:(or E:) : (Self-diagnosis display) C:04: The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series). Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) (p. 112). Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack of your camcorder securely (p. 12). C:06: The battery pack temperature is high. Change the battery pack or place it in a cool place. Slow flashing The temperature of your camcorder is getting higher.
(Warning indicator pertaining to incompatible memory card) Incompatible memory card is inserted (p. 19). (Warning indicator pertaining to the write-protect of the memory card) Fast flashing There is something wrong with the flash. (Warning indicator pertaining to camera-shake warning) The amount of lights is not sufficient, so camera-shake easily occurs. Use the flash. The camcorder is unsteady, so camera-shake easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with both hands and record the image.
The Image Database File is damaged. Do you want to create a new file? HD movie management information is damaged. Create new information? The management file is damaged. When you touch [YES], a new management file is created. The old recorded images on the media cannot be played back (Image files are not damaged). If you execute [REPAIR IMG. DB F.] after creating new information, playing back the old recorded images may become possible. If it does not work, copy the image using the supplied software.
This memory card may not be able to record or play images correctly. Use a memory card recommended for your camcorder (p. 19). Do not eject the memory card during writing. Data may be damaged. Reinsert the memory card, and follow the instructions on the LCD screen. Other No further selection is possible.
Recording time of movies/number of recordable photos “HD” stands for high definition image quality, and “STD” stands for standard image quality. Expected time of recording and playback with each battery pack Approximate time available when you use a fully charged battery pack.
Expected recording time of movies Recording mode Internal memory HDR-CX550E/CX550VE High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m (minute) Recording mode [HD FX] [HD FH] [HD HQ] [HD LP] (5.1ch)* [HD LP] (2ch)* Recording time HDR-CX550E HDR-CX550VE 6h5m 6h 7 h 45 m 7 h 40 m 15 h 50 m 15 h 35 m 25 h 35 m 25 h 15 m 16 h 15 m 16 h 5 m Internal hard disk HDR-XR550E/XR550VE High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m (minute) [HD FX] [HD FH] [HD HQ] [HD LP] (5.
Memory card Expected number of recordable photos High definition image quality (HD) (unit: minute) 1GB 2GB 4GB 8GB 16GB 32GB AVC HD 24M (FX) 5 (5) 10 (10) 20 (20) 40 (40) 85 (85) AVC HD AVC HD 17M 9M (HQ) (FH) 6 10 (6) (9) 10 25 (10) (15) 25 55 (25) (40) 55 115 (55) (80) 110 230 (110) (160) AVC HD 5M (LP) 5.
Standard GB 106 definition image quality (STD): HQ: Approx. 9Mbps (average) 720 576 pixels/16:9, 4:3 The photo recording pixels and the aspect ratio.
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 Hz/60 Hz range. Your camcorder is a PAL-system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback image on a TV, it must be a PAL-systembased TV with an AUDIO/VIDEO input jack.
Setting to the local time You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your (MENU) [Show others] [CLOCK/ LANG] (under camcorder abroad. Touch [GENERAL SET] category) [AREA SET] and [SUMMERTIME] (p. 88). HDR-CX550VE/XR550VE When [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO AREA ADJ] are set to [ON], the clock is set to the local time automatically by the GPS function (p. 88).
Maintenance and precautions *1 1080i specification About the AVCHD format What is the AVCHD format? The AVCHD format is a high definition digital video camera format used to record a high definition (HD) 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.
open sky environments. You may not be able to record location information at locations or in situations where radio signals from the GPS satellites do not reach the camcorder as follows. In tunnels, indoors or under the shade of buildings. Between tall buildings or at narrow streets surrounded by buildings. In underground locations, locations surrounded by dense trees, under an elevated bridge, or in locations where magnetic fields are generated, such as near high voltage cables.
Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovenia © EuroGeographics France source: Géoroute® IGN France & BD Carto® IGN France Germany Die Grundlagendaten wurden mit Genehmigung der zustaendigen Behoerden entnommen. Great Britain Based upon Crown Copyright material. Greece © EuroGeographics; Copyright Geomatics Ltd. Hungary Copyright © 2003; Top-Map Ltd.
memory card is inserted facing in the correct direction. Note that improper use may cause a malfunction. On image data compatibility Image data files recorded on memory card by your camcorder conform to the “Design rule for Camera File system” universal standard established by the JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).
Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it up, and install it on your camcorder right before you start taking shots. Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FV70/ NP-FV100 (sold separately). Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent playback, fast forward or reverse operation wears out the battery pack faster. We recommend using a large capacity battery pack: NP-FV70/NP-FV100 (sold separately). Be sure to close the LCD screen when not recording or playing back on your camcorder.
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD screen, the viewfinder or the lens may be exposed to direct sunlight. This damages the inside of the viewfinder or the LCD screen. Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor). For DC or AC operation, use the accessories recommended in these operating instructions. Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example, from rain or sea water. If your camcorder gets wet, it may malfunction.
directly to the LCD screen. Use cleaning paper moistened with the liquid. About care and storage of the lens On adjustment of the touch panel (CALIBRATION) The buttons on the touch panel may not work correctly. If this happens, follow the procedure below. It is recommended that you connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor during the operation. (MENU) [Show others] [GENERAL [OTHER SETTINGS] (under SET] category) [CALIBRATION].
Note on disposal/transfer of the memory card Even if you delete data in the memory card or format the memory card on your camcorder or a computer, you may not delete data from the memory card completely. When you give the memory card to somebody, it is recommended that you delete date completely using data deletion software on a computer. Also, when you dispose of the memory card, it is recommended that you destroy the actual body of the memory card.
SDXC and SDHC logos are trademarks of SD-3C, LLC. MultiMediaCard is a trademark of MultiMediaCard Association. All other product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Furthermore, and are not mentioned in each case in this Handbook.
On GNU GPL/LGPL applied software The software that is eligible for the following GNU General Public License (hereinafter referred to as “GPL”) or GNU Lesser General Public License (hereinafter referred to as “LGPL”) are included in the camcorder. This informs you that you have a right to have access to, modify, and redistribute source code for these software programs under the conditions of the supplied GPL/LGPL. Source code is provided on the web. Use the following URL to download it.
Quick reference Screen indicators Upper right Upper left Center Upper right Bottom Upper left Indicator Indicator 0:00:00 Counter (hour:minute: second) (34) [00min] Estimated recording remaining time (22) Meaning MENU button (66) AUDIO MODE (79) Self-timer recording (80) GPS tracking status (53) Flash (81)/ REDEYE REDUC (81) MICREF LEVEL low (78) 9999 9999 9999 100/112 WIDE SELECT (80) BLT-IN ZOOM MIC (78) 60 min Remaining battery Meaning Recording image quality (HD/STD) and recording mode (
Parts and controls Indicator Meaning Figures in ( ) are reference pages. IRIS (31) CONVERSION LENS (77) INTELLIGENT AUTO (26) HDR-CX550E/CX550VE OPTION button (68) VIEW IMAGES button (33) Slide show button (40) 101-0005 YOUR LOCATION button (54) Data file name (35) Protected image (45) Index button (35) Indicators and their positions are approximate and may differ from what you actually see. Some indicators may not appear, depending on your camcorder model.
the operating instructions supplied with your accessory for details. The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device for fixing the installed accessory securely. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and then press down and pull out the accessory. When you open or close the shoe cover, slide it as indicated by the arrow.
(INTELLIGENT AUTO) button (26) HDR-XR550E/XR550VE POWER button (15) RESET button Press RESET using a pointed object. Press RESET to initialize all the settings including the clock setting.
Wireless Remote Commander ////ENTER buttons When you press any of these buttons, the orange frame appears on the LCD screen. Select a desired button or an item with ///, then press ENTER to enter. Notes Remove the insulation sheet before using the Wireless Remote Commander. Insulation sheet DATA CODE button (82) Displays the date and time, camera setting data, or coordinates (HDR-CX550VE/ XR550VE) of the recorded images when you press this button during playback.
To change the battery of the Wireless Remote Commander While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail into the slit to pull out the battery case. Place a new battery with the + side facing up. Insert the battery case back into the Wireless Remote Commander until it clicks. Tab WARNING Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.
Index Symbols 1080i/576i.....................................88 16:9................................................87 4:3..................................................87 5.1ch surround recording...........29 576i................................................88 A A.SHUT OFF...............................89 A/V connecting cable...........42, 64 Abroad........................................107 AE SHIFT.....................................74 AREA SET....................................88 AUDIO MODE...
Menus......................................66, 69 MICREF LEVEL..........................78 Mirror mode................................31 Moisture condensation.............114 MOVIE DUB...............................48 MOVIE MEDIA SET..................18 Movies.....................................22, 34 MPEG-4 AVC/H.264................109 MUSIC TOOL.............................84 MY MENU SETTING................67 N NightShot......................................30 NIGHTSHOT LIGHT................
Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.
