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Sony Handycam DCR-HC30E Operation Manual
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Sony Handycam DCR-HC30E Operation Manual

Digital video camera recorder
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Operations Guide
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© 2004 Sony Corporation
Digital Video Camera Recorder
DCR-HC30E/HC40E
3-088-340-12(1)

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Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam DCR-HC30E

  • Page 1 Camera Operations Guide Read this first Digital Video Camera Recorder DCR-HC30E/HC40E © 2004 Sony Corporation 3-088-340-12(1)

  • Page 2: Read This First

    Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station. FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE ATTENTION The electromagnetic fields at the specific frequencies may influence the picture and sound of this camcorder.
  • Page 3 Be careful when placing the camera near a window or outdoors. • Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun only in low light conditions, such as at dusk. Note on connecting other device Before connecting your camcorder to other device such as a VCR or a computer with a USB or i.LINK...
  • Page 4 • Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts. Viewfinder LCD panel Battery pack DCR-HC30E/HC40E 3-088-340-12(1)

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Read this first ... 2 Quick Start Guide Recording movies ... 10 Recording still images ... 12 Recording/Playing back with ease ... 14 Getting started Step 1: Checking supplied items... 15 Step 2: Charging the battery pack... 16 Using an outside power source ...
  • Page 7 Adjusting the exposure... 37 Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects ... 37 Fixing the exposure for the selected subject – Flexible spot meter ... 38 Adjusting the exposure manually ... 38 Recording in dark places – NightShot plus, etc..39 Adjusting the focus...
  • Page 8 Advanced operations Using the Menu Selecting menu items ... 62 Using the (CAMERA SET) menu – PROGRAM AE/WHITE BAL./16:9 WIDE, etc..64 Using the (MEMORY SET) menu – BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc..70 Using the (PICT. APPLI.) menu –...
  • Page 9 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ...112 Warning indicators and messages ...120 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ...124 Usable cassette tapes ...124 About the “Memory Stick” ...126 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ...128 About i.LINK ...130 Maintenance and precautions ...131 Specification ...134 Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls ...136...

  • Page 10: Quick Start Guide

    Quick Start Guide Recording movies Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder. To charge the battery, see page 16. Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. Insert a cassette into the camcorder. Slide the OPEN/...

  • Page 11: Start Recording While Checking The Subject On The Lcd Screen

    Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen. The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 22. Set the LENS COVER switch to OPEN. Open the LCD panel. While pressing the green button, slide the POWER switch...

  • Page 12: Recording Still Images

    Recording still images Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder. To charge the battery, see page 16. Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into the camcorder. Insert it so that the b mark is at the bottom left corner.
  • Page 13 Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen. The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 22. Set the LENS COVER switch to OPEN. Open the LCD panel. While pressing the green button, slide the POWER switch...

  • Page 14: Recording/Playing Back With Ease

    Recording/Playing back with ease By switching to Easy Handycam operation, recording/playback operation becomes even easier. Easy Handycam operation allows easy recording/playback for even first time users by providing only the basic functions for recording/playback. Press EASY when recording/ playing back. EASY lights up in blue (1) and screen font size increases (2) during Easy Handycam operation.

  • Page 15: Getting Started

    You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,” which is about half the size of a standard “Memory Stick,” in your camcorder. See page 126 for details. Memory Stick Duo adaptor (1) If you attach a Memory Stick Duo adaptor to a “Memory Stick Duo,”...

  • Page 16: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    With the v mark on the DC plug facing down, connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder. v mark Connect the mains lead to the AC Adaptor.
  • Page 17 The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. CHG (charge) lamp After charging the battery The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack. To remove the battery pack BATT (battery) POWER switch release button...
  • Page 18 25°C (77°F). With LCD BACKLIGHT set to ON For DCR-HC40E: Battery pack Continuous recording time NP-FP50 (supplied) NP-FP70 NP-FP90 For DCR-HC30E: Battery pack Continuous recording time NP-FP50 (supplied) NP-FP70 NP-FP90 With LCD BACKLIGHT set to OFF For DCR-HC40E: Battery pack Continuous...

  • Page 19: Using An Outside Power Source

    • The power will not be supplied from the battery pack when the AC Adaptor is connected to the DC IN jack of your camcorder, even if its mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket. • The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperature.

  • Page 20: Step 3: Turning The Power On

    You need to slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the desired power mode to record or play. When using this camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 22). LENS COVER switch POWER switch Set the LENS COVER switch to OPEN.

  • Page 21: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    [LCD BL LEVEL] from the [LCD/VF SET] on the (p. 84) (STANDARD SET) menu • When you use your camcorder in bright conditions, press LCD BACKLIGHT to switch off the LCD screen backlight ( appears on the screen.).

  • Page 22: Step 5: Setting The Date And Time

    Note • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable button-type battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable button-type battery (p.

  • Page 23: Step 6: Inserting The Recording Media

    For details on these cassettes (such as write- protection), see page 124. b Note • Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This may cause a malfunction of your camcorder. Slide the OPEN/ZEJECT the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

  • Page 24: Inserting A "Memory Stick Duo

    • You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,” which is about half the size of a standard “Memory Stick,” in your camcorder (p. 126). Do not try to force any other type of “Memory Stick” into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot.

  • Page 25: Step 7: Setting The Screen Language

    • When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data from/to the “Memory Stick Duo.” Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged.
  • Page 26 Select the desired language with , then touch z Tip • Your camcorder offers [ENG [SIMP]] (simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue among the options. Getting started...

  • Page 27: Recording

    Select the recording mode. To record on a tape Slide the POWER switch until the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to the standby mode. To record on a “Memory Stick POWER switch Duo” – MPEG MOVIE EX...

  • Page 28: Remaining Battery

    OFF (CHG). • In the default setting, when you do not operate the camcorder for more than about 5 minutes, the power will automatically turn off to prevent battery loss ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 87). To restart recording, slide...

  • Page 29: Recording For A Longer Time

    Tips • If you do not use your camcorder for a long time, remove the cassette and store it. • You can also use REC START/STOP of the LCD panel to record moving pictures.

  • Page 30: Recording In Mirror Mode

    1 cm (approx. 1/2 inch)* 80 cm (approx. 2 5/8 feet)* * The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus in that position of the lever. Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom.

  • Page 31: Recording Still Images

    Touch [SELF-TIMER]. If the item is not displayed on the screen, touch . If you cannot find it, touch [MENU], and select it from the (CAMERA SET) menu. 60min STBY 0:00:00 SELF–TIMER: Touch [ON], then appears. 60min STBY 0:00:00 P-MENU Press REC START/STOP.
  • Page 32 Press and hold PHOTO lightly. You will hear a light beeping sound when the focus and brightness settings are adjusted. Recording does not start at this point. The indicator stops flashing. The number of images that can be recorded.* 60min FINE 1152 P-MENU...

  • Page 33: Selecting Image Quality Or Size

    For DCR-HC40E: Select the (MEMORY SET) menu, [STILL SET], then [ QUALITY] or IMAGE SIZE] (p. 71). For DCR-HC30E: Select the (MEMORY SET) menu, [STILL SET], then [ QUALITY] (p. 71). The image size is set to [640 × 480].

  • Page 34: Recording A Still Image On A "Memory Stick Duo" While Recording Movies On A Tape

    [MENU] and select it from the (CAMERA SET) menu. 60min FINE 1152 SELF–TIMER: Touch [ON], then appears. 60min FINE 1152 P-MENU Press PHOTO. You will hear a beep sound counting down for about 10 seconds (The count down indication begins from 8). The image is recorded.

  • Page 35: Recording With Ease - Easy Handycam

    Recording with ease – Easy Handycam With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are set to automatic mode, only basic functions become available, and screen font size increases for easy viewing. Even first time users can enjoy easy recording.

  • Page 36: Recording A Still Image

    Recording a still image Set the LENS COVER switch to OPEN. Open the LCD panel. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly until the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp lights up. Slide the POWER switch while pressing the green button. Press EASY. The EASY lights up in blue. Press and hold PHOTO lightly.

  • Page 37: Adjusting The Exposure

    For [SELF-TIMER] (in the CAMERA- MEMORY mode only) Touch [ON], then Press PHOTO fully. You will hear a beep sound counting down for about 10 seconds. When the bars of disappear, the image is recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” Adjusting the exposure The exposure is adjusted automatically in the...

  • Page 38: Fixing The Exposure For The Selected Subject - Flexible Spot Meter

    Fixing the exposure for the selected subject – Flexible spot meter You can adjust and fix the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded in suitable brightness even when there is strong contrast between the subject and the background (such as subjects in the limelight on stage).

  • Page 39: Recording In Dark Places - Nightshot Plus, Etc

    Adjust the exposure by touching (dim)/ (bright), then touch 60min STBY 0:00:00 P-MENU To return the setting to automatic exposure Follow steps 1 and 2, then select [AUTO] in step 3. b Note • You cannot use the manual exposure together with: –...
  • Page 40 Recording • When using the Super NightShot plus or Color Slow Shutter function, the shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down at this time. • Adjust the focus manually when it is hard to focus automatically.

  • Page 41: Adjusting The Focus

    Adjusting the focus The focus is adjusted automatically in the default setting. Adjusting the focus for an off- center subject – SPOT FOCUS You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located in the center of the screen.

  • Page 42: Recording A Picture Using Various Effects

    Touch [MANUAL]. appears. Touch to sharpen the focus. : To focus on close subjects. : To focus on distant subjects. changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any further. changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer. 60min STBY FOCUS:...
  • Page 43 FADER Touch the desired effect, then touch When you touch [OVERLAP], [WIPE] or [DOT FADER], the image on the tape in your camcorder is stored as a still image. (While storing the image, the screen turns to blue.) 60min STBY Press REC START/STOP.

  • Page 44: Using Special Effects - Digital Effect

    [OLD MOVIE] You can add an old movie-type atmosphere to (next) to pictures. Your camcorder automatically records pictures in the letterbox mode for all screen size, sepia in color, and at a slower shutter speed. Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA-TAPE mode.

  • Page 45: Overlaying Still Images On Movies On A Tape - Memory Mix

    No adjustment necessary. * It is hard to adjust the focus automatically when you choose this effect. Adjust the focus manually using a tripod to steady the camcorder. Touch appears. To cancel Digital effect Follow steps 2 and 3, then select [OFF] in step b Notes •...
  • Page 46 Check that you have a “Memory Stick Duo” with the still image to be superimposed and a tape (only if you are recording on tape) in your camcorder. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the CAMERA-TAPE mode (when you are recording on a tape) or...

  • Page 47: Searching For The Starting Point

    • You may not be able to play back pictures modified on your computer or recorded with other camcorders on your camcorder. z Tip • The supplied SPVD-012 USB Driver CD-ROM contains sample images for use in MEMORY MIX operations.

  • Page 48: Searching Manually - Edit Search

    Cassette Memory CANCEL The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished. To cancel the operation Touch [CANCEL].

  • Page 49: Playback

    Playback Viewing movies recorded on a tape Make sure you have a recorded cassette inserted into your camcorder. Some of the operations are possible using the Remote Commander or using the touch panel. When you want to play back recordings on your TV, see page 59.

  • Page 50: Playing Back In Various Modes

    Indicators displayed during tape playback 60min A Remaining battery B Recording mode (SP or LP) C Tape transport indicator D Time code (hour: minute: second: frame) or tape counter (hour: minute: second) E Personal Menu button (p. 62) F Video operation buttons When a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 51: Viewing Recordings With Added Effects - Digital Effect

    Tip • You cannot record the pictures edited using special effects on the tape in your camcorder, but you can copy them to a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 95) or another tape (p. 93). POWER switch DV Interface.

  • Page 52: Viewing Recordings On A "Memory Stick Duo

    When you have a lot of pictures, you can list them to search through them easily. Make sure you have a recorded “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. When you want to play back a recorded picture on your TV, see page 59.

  • Page 53: Playing Back In Various Modes From A "Memory Stick Duo

    Indicators displayed during “Memory Stick Duo” playback 60min 10 / 10 1152 101–0010 0:00:00 P-MENU A Remaining battery B Image size C Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures in the current playback folder D Playback folder E Playing time (movies only) F Previous/next folder icon The following indicators appear when the first or last picture of the current folder is...

  • Page 54: Playing Back With Ease - Easy Handycam

    Also screen font size increases for , then touch easy viewing. Make sure you have a recorded cassette or a recorded “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. Open the LCD panel. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode.

  • Page 55: Making Full Use Of Easy Handycam Operation

    Press EASY. The EASY lights up in blue. Play back pictures. When playing back on a tape The following buttons can be operated. (play/pause)/ (fast forward)/ (stop)/ (rewind) You can operate these operations and SLOW y on the Remote Commander. When playing back on a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 56: Various Playback Functions

    Various playback functions You can magnify a small subject in a recording and display it on the screen. You can also display the recorded date and the name of the folder in which the picture is recorded. DSPL/BATT INFO Magnifying pictures – Tape playback zoom/Memory playback zoom You can magnify movies recorded on a tape...

  • Page 57: Displaying The Screen Indicators

    z Tip • If you press DSPL/BATT INFO during the playback zoom operation, the frame will disappear. Displaying the screen indicators You can choose to display the time code, tape counter, and other information on the screen. Press DSPL/BATT INFO. The indicator switches on or off as you press the button.

  • Page 58: Shutter Speed

    E Shutter speed F Aperture value * Appears only during tape playback b Note • Camera setting data do not appear when movies on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played back. z Tips • Exposure adjustment value (0EV) appears when a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 59: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    The audio will not be output when you connect with the S video plug alone. When your TV is connected to a VCR Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.

  • Page 60: Locating A Scene On A Tape For Playback

    Locating a scene on a tape for playback Searching quickly for a desired scene – Zero set memory m REW PLAY STOP DISPLAY ZERO SET MEMORY During playback, press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the point you want to locate later on.

  • Page 61: Searching For A Scene By Date Of Recording - Date Search

    Press STOP on the Remote Commander. b Notes • If one day’s recording is less than 2 minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes. • The Date search will not function correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.

  • Page 62: Using The Menu

    You can also touch the item directly to select it. POWER switch You can scroll and see all items. The available items vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. Unavailable items will be grayed out. 60min REMOTE CTRL: ON , then touch...
  • Page 63 To use the short-cuts of the Personal Menu The available items vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. Unavailable items will be grayed out. You can customize the short-cuts (p. 89). Touch Touch the desired item.

  • Page 64: Using The (Camera Set) Menu

    (landscape) ( Using the Menu setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out. 60min Select this when not using PROGRAM AE.

  • Page 65: Spot Meter

    * Your camcorder is adjusted to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance. **Your camcorder is adjusted to focus only on distant subjects. Note • [SPORTS] (sports lesson) will not work when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA- MEMORY.

  • Page 66: Auto Shutter

    Notes • You cannot use the white balance together with the NightShot plus, or Super NightShot plus function. • The setting returns to [AUTO] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes. Tips • For better color balance adjustment when [WHITE BAL.] is set to [AUTO], aim your...
  • Page 67 GNORMAL ( LOW ( Note • The setting returns to [NORMAL] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes. SUPER NSPLUS See page 39 for details. NS LIGHT When using the NightShot plus function to record, you can record clearer pictures by using the NightShot Light to emit infrared rays (invisible).

  • Page 68: Digital Zoom

    You can record a 16:9 wide picture on the tape to watch on a 16:9 wide-screen TV ([16:9WIDE] mode). With this function [ON], your camcorder offers even wider angles when you move the power zoom lever to the “W” side than recording in [OFF].
  • Page 69 STEADYSHOT You can select this function to compensate for camera-shake. OFF ( Standard setting (enable the SteadyShot function). Select to deactivate the SteadyShot function. Select to shoot a stationary subject with a tripod, or when using a conversion lens (optional). Natural pictures are produced. Using the Menu...

  • Page 70: Using The (Memory Set) Menu

    “Memory Stick Duo.” • When it is hard to see the difference between the images recorded in [EXP. BRKTG] mode on the LCD screen, connect your camcorder to your TV or a computer. Using the Menu setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder.

  • Page 71: Using The (Edit/Play) Menu

    QUALITY GFINE ( STANDARD IMAGE SIZE For DCR-HC40E: G1152 × 864 640 × 480 ( MOVIE SET IMAGE SIZE G320 × 240 160 × 112 ( REMAINING GAUTO ALL ERASE You can delete all the pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” that are not write- protected.

  • Page 72: New Folder

    Touch Notes • You cannot delete the created folders using your camcorder. You will have to format the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 72), or delete them using your computer. • The number of pictures that can be recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” decreases as the number of folders increases on the “Memory Stick Duo.”...
  • Page 73 REC FOLDER As the default setting, pictures are saved in the 101MSDCF folder. You can select a folder to save your pictures. Create new folders from the [NEW FOLDER] menu, then select the folder to be used for recording with When you have a lot of pictures, you can search for the desired picture easily when you sort them in folders.

  • Page 74: Rec-Stl, Etc

    SOLARIZE Using the Menu setting is selected. The settings you can adjust (PICT. vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be – PICT. grayed out. 60min appears when the effect is selected.

  • Page 75: Memory Mix

    Touch [ON] or [OFF], then GON ( Touch [END]. Touch [START]. Your camcorder plays back the images recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo” in sequence. Select to record the picture looking like a pale pastel drawing. (This effect is not available during playback.)
  • Page 76 • If movies are played in the slide show, you can adjust the volume by touching (decrease)/ FRAME REC You can record pictures with a stop-motion animated effect by alternately frame recording and then moving the subject a little. Operate your camcorder using the Remote Commander to prevent camera shake. GOFF ON ( Notes •...
  • Page 77 INTERVAL REC You can record pictures on a tape at a selected interval, when you record flowers blooming, etc. Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor during the operation. a: [REC TIME] b: [INTERVAL] Touch Touch [INTERVAL].

  • Page 78: Demo Mode

    – When a cassette or “Memory Stick Duo” is inserted. – When a mode other than CAMERA-TAPE is selected. • If [A.SHUT OFF] is set to [5 min] when the camcorder is used on the battery pack, the power will be turned off after approximately 5 minutes (p. 87).

  • Page 79: Etc

    See page 94 and 95 for details. BURN DVD When your camcorder is connected to a Sony VAIO series personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the tape on a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) using this command. See the supplied “Computer Applications Guide”...
  • Page 80 SEARCH TITLE Any titles you have superimposed using this camcorder can only be viewed on a video cassette device with the index titler function. If you superimpose a title, you will be able to search for it using Title search. You can superimpose up to about 20 titles (about 5 letters per title) on a cassette with Cassette Memory.

  • Page 81: Titl Erase

    • When you are using your camcorder on the battery pack and do not operate it for 5 minutes, the power automatically goes off as the default setting. If you may take 5 minutes or longer to enter characters, set [A.SHUT OFF] on the...

  • Page 82: Title Disp

    Tips • To erase the label you have created, touch touch • To change the label you have created, insert the cassette into your camcorder and go through the procedure from step 1. ALL ERASE You can delete all data such as date, title, and cassette label saved in the Cassette Memory at one time.

  • Page 83: Using The (Standard Set) Menu

    Select to record in the SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette. Select to increase the recording time to 1.5 times the SP mode (Long Play). The use of Sony Excellence/Master mini DV cassette is recommended to get the most out of your camcorder.
  • Page 84 Notes • You can play back a dual sound track cassette on this camcorder. However, you cannot record a dual sound track on this camcorder. • The setting returns to [STEREO] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes.

  • Page 85: Video Input

    • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording. A/V c DV OUT You can connect a digital device and an analog device to your camcorder and convert the signal transmitted from the connected devices to the appropriate signal on your camcorder.

  • Page 86: Data Code

    • When you are recording close to the subject. • When the subject reflects the recording lamp. Select to sound a melody when you start/stop recording, operate the touch panel, or when an unusual condition occurs on your camcorder.
  • Page 87 GLCD PANEL V-OUT/PANEL Note • You cannot input a signal to your camcorder if you press DSPL/BATT INFO while [V- OUT/PANEL] is selected. MENU ROTATE You can select the scrolling direction (up or down) of the menu items on the LCD...

  • Page 88: Etc

    You can set the date and time (p. 22). WORLD TIME You can adjust the time difference when using your camcorder abroad. Set the time difference by touching with the time difference. If you set the time difference to 0, the clock returns to the originally set time.

  • Page 89: (Time/Langu.) Menu

    EDIT/PLAY STANDARD SET TIME/LANGU. Touch to select a menu category, then touch The available items vary depending on the power mode of the camcorder. Only the available items are displayed. 60min STBY 0:00:00 Select the item. PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE WHITE BAL.
  • Page 90 Deleting menu – Delete Touch 60min STBY STBY 0:00:00 EXPO– MENU SURE FADER FOCUS SPOT SPOT FOCUS METER Touch [P-MENU SET UP]. If the desired menu is not displayed on the screen, touch until the menu is displayed. 60min STBY 0:00:00 P–MENU SET UP DELETE...
  • Page 91 Touch the menu item you want to move. 60min STBY 0:00:00 Select new location. EXPO– MENU SURE FOCUS FADER SPOT SPOT FOCUS METER Touch to move the menu item to the desired place. 60min 0:00:00 STBY Select new location. MENU FADER SPOT FOCUS...

  • Page 92: Dubbing/Editing

    (p. 94). You can also create a copy of the picture recorded on your camcorder on other recording device (p. 93). Connect your camcorder to a TV or VCR as shown in the following illustration. Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor during the operation.

  • Page 93: Dubbing To Another Tape

    When the dubbing is finished, stop your camcorder and the VCR. b Notes • When your camcorder is connected to the VCR via DV Interface, you cannot record the title, indicators, information for the Cassette Memory, and words entered on the index screen of the “Memory Stick Duo.”...

  • Page 94: Recording Pictures From A Vcr Or Tv

    [VIDEO INPUT] in the (STANDARD SET) menu (p. 85) b Notes • Your camcorder can only record from a PAL source. For example, French video or TV programs (SECAM) cannot be recorded correctly. See page 124 for details on TV color systems.

  • Page 95: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    Play the video, or receive the TV program you want to record. The pictures on the VCR or TV appear on the screen of your camcorder. Press PHOTO lightly at the scene you want to record. Check the image and press it fully.

  • Page 96: Dubbing Still Images From A "Memory Stick Duo" To A Tape

    You can record still images on a tape. Make sure you have the “Memory Stick Duo” with the images and a tape inserted into your camcorder. Slide the POWER switch to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. Search for the point where you want to...

  • Page 97: Dubbing Selected Scenes From A Tape

    VCR that does not support [IR SETUP] codes. • The operating signal for the Digital program editing cannot be transferred via the LANC jack. Connect your VCR to the camcorder as a recording device (p. 92). You can use either the A/V connecting cable or the i.LINK cable to make the...
  • Page 98 Prepare your VCR. • Insert a cassette for recording. • Set the input selector to input mode if your VCR has one. Prepare your camcorder (playing device). • Insert a cassette for editing. • Slide the POWER switch to select the PLAY/EDIT mode.
  • Page 99 When recording fails to start, select another [IR SETUP] code and try again. [IR SETUP] code list The following [IR SETUP] codes are recorded on your camcorder by default. (It is set at “3” as the default setting.) Manufacturing company...
  • Page 100 VCR before using the following procedure. You can adjust the synchronization of your camcorder and the VCR to avoid not recording the starting scene. Remove the cassette from your camcorder. Prepare a pen and paper to take notes.
  • Page 101 When you are recording on a tape, insert a cassette for recording into your VCR. When you are recording on a “Memory Stick Duo,” insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder. Touch Touch [MENU]. 60min 0:00:00:00 MEMORY SET...
  • Page 102 TOTAL 0:00:00:12 SCENE Repeat steps 7 to 10 and create programs. Set your VCR to recording pause. Skip this step if your camcorder is connected via an i.LINK cable or recording on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Touch [START]. START 0:00:00:00...
  • Page 103 To end Digital program editing Touch [END]. To save a program without using it to record Touch [END] in step 11. The program is stored in memory until the cassette is ejected. To erase programs Follow steps 1 to 6 in “Recording the selected scenes as programs”...

  • Page 104: Dubbing Sound To A Recorded Tape

    • When you use an external microphone (optional) to record additional audio, you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV using the A/V connecting cable. However, the sound Microphone (optional) A/V connecting cable (supplied)
  • Page 105 • You can only record additional audio over a tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape recorded on other camcorders (including other DCR-HC30E/ HC40E camcorders). X mark appears on the LCD...

  • Page 106: Deleting Recorded Pictures

    Checking and adjusting the recorded sound Play back the tape on which you have recorded audio in “Recording sound” (p. 105). Touch Touch [MENU]. Touch to select (STANDARD SET), then touch 60min 0:00:00:00 TITLE DEL TAPE TITLE ALL ERASE REC MODE AUDIO MODE VOLUME MUL TI SOUND...

  • Page 107: Marking Recorded Images With Specific Information

    To delete pictures on the index screen You can easily search for the picture to be deleted by displaying 6 pictures at once. Slide the POWER switch to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. Touch Touch Touch Touch [ DELETE]. Touch the picture you want to delete. appears on the image to be deleted.

  • Page 108: Print Mark

    Selecting still images for printing – Print mark You can mark images that you want to print out while viewing them on your camcorder. (You cannot specify the number of printouts.) The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for printing on your camcorder.

  • Page 109: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    Note • Do not mark images on your camcorder if the “Memory Stick Duo” already has some images with the Print mark put on other devices. This may change the information of the images with the Print mark put on the other device.
  • Page 110 Notes • We cannot guarantee the operation of models that are not PictBridge compatible. • You cannot connect your camcorder to the printer if [USB-PLY/EDT] in the menu settings is not set to [PictBridge]. Follow the instructions shown on the screen.
  • Page 111 • Some printer models may not support the date printing function. Refer to your printer’s operating instructions for details. • We cannot guarantee the printing of images recorded with a device other than your camcorder. Dubbing/Editing...

  • Page 112: Troubleshooting

    • The battery pack is discharged, running low, or not attached to the camcorder. cAttach a charged battery pack to the camcorder. (p. 16) cUse the AC Adaptor to connect to the wall socket. (p. 19) cDisconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket or remove the battery pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.

  • Page 113: Cassette Tapes

    If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged. (p. 16) • The temperature of the environment is too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough.
  • Page 114 REC. (p. 125) Cause and/or Corrective Actions cSee page 25. • The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE]. (The [DEMO MODE] is automatically displayed when you leave the camcorder for 10 minutes after selecting CAMERA-TAPE without inserting a cassette and “Memory Stick Duo.”)
  • Page 115 REC or insert a new cassette. (p. 125) cThe tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette. (p. 131) •...
  • Page 116 Symptom The external flash (optional) does not work. The flash level cannot be changed. Flickering or changes in color occurs. cThis occurs when recording pictures under a fluorescent lamp, sodium END SEARCH does not work. END SEARCH does not work correctly.
  • Page 117 Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder. (p. 24) • The “Memory Stick Duo” was formatted on a personal computer. cFormat it on your camcorder (Note that all recorded data will be deleted). (p. 72) cWhen you are using the “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.”...
  • Page 118 • Only the file name is displayed if the directory structure does not conform to the universal standard. • The file is damaged. • The file format is not supported on your camcorder. (p. 126) • The file is damaged. • The file format is not supported on your camcorder. (p. 126) Cause and/or Corrective Actions •...
  • Page 119 VCR correctly, then check the connection between your camcorder and the VCR. (p. 92) cWhen your camcorder is connected to a DV device that is not a Sony product via an i.LINK cable, select [IR] in step11 of “Step 1: Preparing your camcorder and VCR for operation”...

  • Page 120: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Troubleshooting Cause and/or Corrective Actions Some symptoms can be fixed by yourself. If the problem persists even after you tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:04:ss cA battery pack that is not an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is being used.

  • Page 121: Warning Messages

    Indication (Warning indicator pertaining to incompatible “Memory Stick Duo”)* Q (Warning indicator pertaining to the tape) Z (Eject cassette warning)* - (Warning indicator pertaining to image deletion)* - (Warning indicator pertaining to the write-protect of the “Memory Stick Duo”) (Warning indicator pertaining to the flash (optional)) * You hear a melody or beep sound when the warning indicators appear on the screen.
  • Page 122 Memory Stick folders are full. Cannot record still images on Memory Stick. Cannot record Memory Stick movie on a tape. PictBridge Check the connected device. compliant printer Connect the camcorder to a PictBridge compatible printer. Check the printer. Error-Cancel the task. Troubleshooting Corrective Actions/ References cSee page 24.
  • Page 123 Play back the tape with equipment that recorded it. • Your camcorder does not allow you to add audio on a section of a tape recorded in HDV format. cOpen the lens cover.

  • Page 124: Additional Information

    Power supply You can use your camcorder in any countries/ regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz. On TV color systems Your camcorder is a PAL system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback...
  • Page 125 16k bits. Copyright signal When you play back If the cassette you play back on your camcorder contains copyright signals, you cannot copy it to a tape in another video camera connected to your camcorder.

  • Page 126: About The "Memory Stick

    Compensation for damaged image data will not be made. – If you eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” turn the power off on your camcorder, or remove the battery pack for replacement while your camcorder is reading or writing image files on the “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 127 (MagicGate/Parallel Transfer) • The maximum memory capacity of a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” that can be used on your camcorder is up to 512 MB, and that of a “Memory Stick Duo” (MagicGate/Parallel Transfer) is up to 128 MB. • This unit does not support high speed data transfer.

  • Page 128: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    • After charging is complete, disconnect the cable from the DC IN jack on your camcorder, or remove the battery pack. To use the battery pack effectively •...
  • Page 129 Please buy a new battery pack. • The battery life varies depending on how it is stored and the operating conditions and environment for each battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. Additional Information...

  • Page 130: About I.link

    Tips • i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE 1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and is a trademark approved by many corporations. • IEEE 1394 is an international standard standardized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

  • Page 131: Maintenance And Precautions

    Sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired. • If any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further. • Avoid rough handling, disassembling, modifying, or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.

  • Page 132: Video Head

    • If the following problem occurs, clean the video heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM-12CLD cleaning cassette (optional). – Mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture or the screen is displayed in blue.
  • Page 133 LCD panel and set it with the LCD screen facing out. On handling the casing • If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water, and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth.

  • Page 134: Specification

    3.6 mm (1/5 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. 1 070 000 pixels Effective (still): Approx. 1 000 000 pixels Effective (movie): Approx. 690 000 pixels For DCR-HC30E: 3 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. 800 000 pixels Additional Information Effective (still): Approx.
  • Page 135 For DCR-HC40E: During camera recording using the viewfinder 2.8 W During camera recording using the LCD 3.1 W For DCR-HC30E: During camera recording using the viewfinder 2.3 W During camera recording using the LCD 2.6 W Operating temperature 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

  • Page 136: Quick Reference

    Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls Camcorder A LCD/Touch panel screen (p. 3, 21) B LCD BACKLIGHT* (p. 21) C REC START/STOP (p. 27, 50) D BACK LIGHT button* (p. 37) E DSPL/BATT INFO button (p. 17) F EASY button (p. 35, 54) G Viewfinder (p.
  • Page 137 Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens which can reproduce fine images. The lens for your camcorder was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality as fine as a Carl Zeiss lens.
  • Page 138 • The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the POWER switch on your camcorder. Refer to the operating instructions of the accessory for details. H Power zoom lever...
  • Page 139 Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap It is useful when you carry your camcorder. Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad (1) and remove it from the ring (2).
  • Page 140 Playback, Fast-forward, Pause, Stop, Slow) (p. 50) F ZERO SET MEMORY button* (p. 60) G Transmitter After turning on your camcorder, point towards the remote sensor to control your camcorder. H REC START/STOP (p. 30) I Power zoom button (p. 29) J DISPLAY button (p.
  • Page 141 (optional). • When you are operating with the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder, your VCR may also operate. In that case, select a commander mode other than VTR 2 for your VCR, or cover the sensor of your VCR with black paper.

  • Page 142: Indicators For The Lcd Screen And Viewfinder

    Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder Following indicators will appear on the LCD screen and viewfinder to indicate the state of your camcorder. Indicators vary depending on your camcorder model. Example: Indicators in the CAMERA-TAPE mode Time code (p. 57)/Tape counter (p. 57)/Self- diagnosis (p.

  • Page 143: Index

    Battery pack ...16 Remaining battery ...28, 129 BEEP...21, 86 BLACK FADER...42 BURN DVD...79 BURN VCD ...80 Burst (BURST) ...32, 70 Button-type battery Camcorder ...133 Remote Commander ...140 CALIBRATION ...132 Camera Chroma key (CAM T M CHROMA) ...45 Camera settings data display ...57 Cassette ...23...
  • Page 144 Interval recording (INTERVAL REC)... 77 JPEG... 126 LANC ... 137 LANGUAGE... 88 Language (LANGUAGE) ... 25 LCD back light (LCD BL LEVEL)... 84 LCD BACKLIGHT... 21, 136 LCD brightness (LCD BRIGHT)... 21 LCD COLOR ... 84 LCD screen... 3 LCD/VF SET ... 84 LP (Long Play) See Recording mode (REC MODE)
  • Page 145 Tape counter ...28 Telephoto See Zoom Time code ...28 Title (Cassette Memory) TAPE TITLE...82 TITL ERASE ...81 TITLE...80 TITLE DISP ...82 Title search...60 TRAIL...44 TV color systems ...124 USB Streaming ...85 USB-CAMERA...85 USB-PLY/EDT ...85 Using abroad ...124 Video head ...132 VIDEO INPUT ...85 Viewfinder ...21 Brightness...
  • Page 148 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan...

This manual is also suitable for:

Hc40eHandycam dcr-hc40e

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