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Sony Handycam DCR-HC90 Operating Manual
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Sony Handycam DCR-HC90 Operating Manual

Digital video camera recorder
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See also: Service Manual
Printed on 100% recycled paper using
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free
vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
DCR-HC90
© 2005 Sony Corporation
2-548-307-11 (1)
9
Getting Started
Recording/
20
Playback
36
Using the Menu
60
Dubbing/Editing
72
Using a Computer
82
Troubleshooting
104
Additional Information

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Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam DCR-HC90

  • Page 1 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan Digital Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide DCR-HC90 © 2005 Sony Corporation 2-548-307-11 (1) Getting Started Recording/ Playback Using the Menu Dubbing/Editing Using a Computer...

  • Page 2: Memory Stick

    This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. For customers in the U.S.A. If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222- SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information...

  • Page 3: Notes On Use

    Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. DCR-HC90 Serial No.
  • Page 4 About the Carl Zeiss lens Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...9 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ...10 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ...13 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ...14 Step 5: Using the touch panel ...15 Changing the language setting ...15 Checking the screen indicators (Display guide) ...15 Step 6: Setting the date and time ...16...
  • Page 7 Indicators displayed during recording/playback...28 Searching for the starting point ...31 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)..31 Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)...31 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)...31 Remote Commander ...32 Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)...32 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ...33 Playing the picture on a TV ...34 Using the Menu...
  • Page 8 Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo”...66 Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information (Image protection/Print mark) ...66 Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer)...67 Jacks to connect external devices...69 Using a Computer Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer ...70 Installing the software and “First Step Guide”...

  • Page 9: Step 1: Checking Supplied Items

    Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. “Memory Stick Duo” 16MB (1) (p. 18, 106) Memory Stick Duo adaptor (1) (p. 107) AC Adaptor (1) (p.

  • Page 10: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (A series) (p. 108) after attaching it to your camcorder. DC plug POWER switch To the wall outlet Power cord Slide the battery/“Memory Stick Duo” cover in the direction of the arrow to open it.
  • Page 11 Slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG). (The default setting.) /CHG (charge) lamp Connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder. The  mark faces right Connect the power cord to the AC Adaptor and the wall outlet. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts.

  • Page 12: Charging Time

    Step 2: Changing the battery pack (continued) Charging time Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack. Battery pack NP-FA50 (supplied) NP-FA70 Recording time Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack. Continuous Battery pack recording...

  • Page 13: Step 3: Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Firmly

    Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly To record or play back, slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 16). POWER switch Slide the POWER switch repeatedly in the direction of the...

  • Page 14: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (). DISP/BATT INFO 180 degrees (max.) 90 degrees to the camcorder 90 degrees (max.) •...

  • Page 15: Step 5: Using The Touch Panel

    Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. 23), or change the settings (p. 36) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

  • Page 16: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.

  • Page 17: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” Cassette tape You can use mini DV cassettes only (p. 105). • The recordable time varies depending on [REC MODE] (p. 53). Slide and hold the OPEN/ EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.
  • Page 18 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” (continued) “Memory Stick Duo” You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with (p. 106). • The number and time of recordable pictures varies depending on the image quality or the image size.

  • Page 19: Step 8: Selecting The Aspect Ratio (16:9 Or 4:3) Of The Recording Picture

    Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-resolution pictures. • If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended.

  • Page 20: Recording/Playback With Ease (Easy Handycam)

    Recording/Playback with ease (Easy Handycam) With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically adjusted optimally, which frees you from detailed adjustment. Since only basic functions become available and screen font size increases for easy viewing, even first time users can enjoy easy operation.

  • Page 21: Playing Back With Ease

    Playing back with ease Slide the POWER switch  in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Press EASY . The EASY lights up in blue. EASY Start playing back. Movies Touch , then touch start playback.

  • Page 22: Recording

    Recording Lens cover Opens in accordance with the setting of the POWER switch. REC START/  STOP Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium. To record on a tape, light up the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.

  • Page 23: Playback

    Playback Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Start playing back. Movies On a Tape: Touch , then touch start playback.  Stop  Play/Pause toggles as you touch it ...

  • Page 24: Functions Used For Recording/Playback, Etc

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. Recording To use zoom ...   Move the power zoom lever  slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Wider range of view: (Wide angle) Close view: (Telephoto) • You cannot change the zoom speed with the ...

  • Page 25: To Adjust The Exposure For Backlit Subjects

    feet). • Remove any dust from the surface of the flash lamp before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if heat discoloration or dust obscures the lamp. • The flash charge lamp flickers when charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge is complete.

  • Page 26: To Initialize The Settings

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (continued) Recording/playback To check the remaining battery (Battery Info) ...  Set the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/BATT INFO . The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the button pressed to view it for about 20 seconds.

  • Page 28: Indicators Displayed During Recording/Playback

    Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies On a tape  Remaining battery (approx.) Recording mode ( or ) (53)   Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording))  Time code (hour: minute: second: frame)/Tape counter (hour: minute: second)  Recording capacity of the tape (approx.) (56) ...
  • Page 29 ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies On a tape  Tape transport indicator  Video operation buttons (23) When there is a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted in the camcorder, changes to (“Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 30 Indicators displayed during recording/playback (continued) Indicators when you made changes You can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 15) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Upper left Bottom Upper left Indicator Meaning EXT SUR MIC (54) 4CH MIC REC recording (54) AUDIO MODE (53)

  • Page 31: Searching For The Starting Point

    Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up. Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) [END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape. Touch ...

  • Page 32: Remote Commander

    Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander. Insulation sheet  PHOTO (p. 22) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded as a still image.  SEARCH M. (p. 31)    ...

  • Page 33: Searching For A Scene By Date Of Recording (Date Search)

    Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) You can locate the point where the recording date changes. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.  Press SEARCH M. Press (previous)/   to select a recording date. 0:00:00:00 DATE -01 SEACH...

  • Page 34: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    Playing the picture on a TV Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V jack : Signal flow A/V connecting cable (supplied) ...
  • Page 35 • When you play back a picture recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3]. When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack) Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or the...

  • Page 36: Using The Menu Items

    Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. [CAMERA-TAPE] lamp: [CAMERA-MEMORY] lamp: Duo” [PLAY/EDIT] lamp: settings for viewing/editing Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
  • Page 37 After finishing the settings, touch (close) to hide the menu screen.  If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.

  • Page 38: Menu Items

    Menu items CAMERA SET menu PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE WHITE BAL. SHARPNESS AUTO SHUTTER AE SHIFT SPOT FOCUS FOCUS TELE MACRO FLASH SET SUPER NS NS LIGHT COLOR SLOW S ZEBRA SELF-TIMER DIGITAL ZOOM STEADYSHOT PROGRES.REC MEMORY SET menu STILL SET MOVIE SET ALL ERASE*...
  • Page 39 Available menu items (  ) vary depending on the position of the lamp. *These functions are available during Easy Handycam operation. PRINT EDIT/PLAY menu VAR. SPD PB REC CTRL AUD DUB CTRL REC MOVIE BURN DVD BURN VCD END SEARCH STANDARD SET menu REC MODE AUDIO MODE...

  • Page 40: Camera Set Menu

    CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 41 EXPOSURE You can fix the brightness of a picture manually. When recording indoors on a clear day, for instance, you can avoid backlight shadows on people next to the window by fixing the exposure to that of the wall side of the room. ...
  • Page 42 CAMERA SET menu (continued) AE SHIFT You can adjust the exposure using and the setting value appear when the exposure is anything other than the default setting. • Touch if the subject is white or the backlight is bright, or touch is black or the light is dim.
  • Page 43 FLASH SET Note that these settings will not function with external flashes (optional) that do not support the following settings.  FLASH LEVEL HIGH( Makes the flash level higher.  NORMAL( ) LOW( Makes the flash level lower. • The setting returns to [NORMAL] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes.
  • Page 44 CAMERA SET menu (continued)  OFF The zebra pattern is not displayed. The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 70 IRE. The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 100 IRE or higher. •...

  • Page 45: Memory Set Menu

    MEMORY SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/BURST/ALL ERASE/ NEW FOLDER, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 46 Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality. • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment. • The image size of a 4:3 picture is as follows.
  • Page 47 ALL ERASE Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” without image protection, or in the selected folder.  Select [ALL FILES] or [CURRENT FOLDER]. [ALL FILES]: Deletes all the images on the “Memory Stick Duo.” [CURRENT FOLDER]: Deletes all the images in the selected folder.

  • Page 48: Pict.appli. Menu

    PICT.APPLI. menu Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (PICT. EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/SMTH INT.REC/INT. REC-STL, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 49 FOLDER ( )], then touch If you select [CURRENT FOLDER ( all the images in the current playback folder selected in [PB FOLDER] (p. 47) are played back in sequence.  Touch [REPEAT].  Select [ON] or [OFF], then To repeat the slide show, select [ON To execute the slide show only once, select [OFF].
  • Page 50 PICT.APPLI. menu (continued) TRAIL Records a picture so that an incidental image like a trail is left. SLOW SHUTTR (slow shutter) The shutter speed is slowed down. Suitable for shooting a subject more clearly in a dark place. • Adjust the focus manually using a tripod since adjusting the focus automatically is hard when [SLOW SHUTTR] is selected.
  • Page 51 SMTH INT.REC (Smooth interval tape recording) Your camcorder will shoot 1 frame of the picture at a selected interval and keep them in memory until it has stored several frames. This function is useful to observe the movement of clouds or the changes of daylight.

  • Page 52: Edit/Play Menu

    See page 63. 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 “Creating (frame) a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”)”...

  • Page 53: Standard Set Menu

    STANDARD SET menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/ LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT/USB, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 36 for details on selecting menu items.
  • Page 54 • For creating a 5.1ch surround sound compliant DVD, you need software and a device that supports this function. In the case of Sony products, a VAIO series personal computer pre- installed with “Click to DVD” (Ver.2.0 or later) supports this function.
  • Page 55 • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording.  LCD COLOR You can adjust the color on the LCD screen with Low intensity High intensity  VF B.LIGHT You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder.
  • Page 56 STANDARD SET menu (continued) DISP GUIDE See page 15. GUIDEFRAME You can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical by setting [GUIDEFRAME] to [ON]. The frame is not recorded. Press DISP/BATT INFO to make the frame disappear. DATA CODE Displays information recorded automatically (data code) during recording.

  • Page 57: Time/Langu. Menu

    DISP OUTPUT  LCD PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder. V-OUT/PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfinder. MENU ROTATE ...

  • Page 58: Customizing Personal Menu

    Customizing Personal Menu You can add desired menu items to Personal Menu, and customize Personal Menu settings for each POWER switch position. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu. Adding a menu item You can add up to 28 menu items for each POWER switch position.
  • Page 59 Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu Touch [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT].  If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch Touch the menu item you want to move. Touch to move the menu item to the desired place. Touch To sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4.

  • Page 60: Connecting To A Vcr Or Tv

    Connecting to a VCR or TV Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. A/V jack To DV Interface : Signal flow A/V connecting cable (supplied) ...

  • Page 61: Dubbing To Another Device Such As A Vcr, Dvd Recorder, Etc

    Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder, etc. You can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (such as VCRs). Connect your VCR to your camcorder as a recording device. See page 60 for connection details. Prepare your VCR for recording.

  • Page 62: Recording Pictures From A Vcr Or Tv

    Recording pictures from a VCR or TV You can record pictures or TV programs from a VCR or TV on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo.” You can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 63: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” You can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

  • Page 64: Dubbing Sound To A Recorded Tape

    Dubbing sound to a recorded tape You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 53) without erasing the original sound. Connecting  Active Interface Shoe : Signal flow You can record audio by connecting in one of the following ways.

  • Page 65: To Stop Recording

    screen or the viewfinder. • When you attach an external microphone (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe, you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV or other device using the A/V connecting cable. However, sound you are recording is not output from your camcorder.

  • Page 66: Deleting Recorded Pictures From The "Memory Stick Duo

    Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo” Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch 60min 60min 2016 101–0001 101–0001 MEMORY PLAY MEMORY PLAY Select a picture you want to delete with • To delete all pictures at once, select [ALL ERASE] (p.

  • Page 67: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    Selecting still images for printing (Print mark) The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for printing on your camcorder. By marking images that you want to print out, you do not need to reselect them when you print them out.
  • Page 68 Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) (continued) • We cannot guarantee the operation of models that are not PictBridge compatible. Printing Select the image to be printed with Touch [COPIES].  Select the number of copies to be printed with You can set a maximum of 20 copies of one image to be printed.

  • Page 69: Jacks To Connect External Devices

    Jacks to connect external devices  Active Interface Shoe The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the POWER switch on your camcorder.

  • Page 70: Before Referring To The "First Step Guide" On Your Computer

    Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer When you install the Picture Package software on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer. • Software and features available for Macintosh computers differ from those available for Windows computers.

  • Page 71: System Requirements

    About “First Step Guide” “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software stored on the CD- ROM (supplied).

  • Page 72: Installing The Software And "First Step Guide" On A Computer

    Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer (continued) Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard), disc drive  For Macintosh users When using ImageMixer VCD2 OS: Mac OS X (v10.1.5 or later) CPU: iMac, eMac, iBook, PowerBook, PowerMac G3/G4/G5 series Memory: 128 MB or more Hard disk: Available memory required for...
  • Page 73  Double-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive).* * Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer. Click [Install]. Depending on the OS on the computer, a message appears notifying you that “First Step Guide” cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield Wizard.
  • Page 74 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (continued) Select the language for “First Step Guide” to be installed, then click [Next]. Depending on the computer, this screen may not be displayed. In such a case, skip to step 12. Click [Next] to install the “First Step Guide”.
  • Page 75 Make sure [Yes, I want to restart my computer now.] is checked, then click [Finish]. The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The short-cut icons for [Picture Package Menu] and [Picture Package Menu destination Folder] (and “First Step Guide”, if installed by steps 11-12) appear on the desktop.

  • Page 76: Viewing "First Step Guide

    Music Contents without obtaining authorization or approval of the respective owners thereof. License of Picture Package by Sony Corporation would not be construed as conferring to you by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or right to use the Music...

  • Page 77: Creating A Dvd (Direct Access To "Click To Dvd")

    • You can only use an i.LINK cable for this operation. You cannot use a USB cable. * Note that you need a Sony VAIO computer equipped with a DVD drive that can be used to write DVDs. You also need the computer with “Click to DVD...

  • Page 78: Your Camcorder

    Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) (continued) Turn on the computer. Quit all applications running with an i.LINK. Prepare the power source for your camcorder, then slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source since it takes a few hours to create a DVD.
  • Page 79 The disc tray comes out. Place a new writable DVD in the disc drive. Then, repeat step 7 and 8. To cancel the operation Touch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on your camcorder. • You cannot cancel the operation after [Finalizing DVD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder.

  • Page 80: Connecting An Analog Vcr To The Computer Via Your Camcorder

    Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) Using the A/V connecting cable and an i.LINK cable (optional), you can convert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder.

  • Page 81: Your Computer

    On the LCD screen, touch [MENU] (STANDARD   SET) [A/V DV OUT]   Start playback on the analog video unit. Start capturing procedures on your computer. Regarding operation, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the software or the on-line help. After capturing images and sound, stop capturing procedures on your computer, and stop playback on the analog video...

  • Page 82: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the power source and contact your Sony dealer. Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on.
  • Page 83 The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer.The battery pack may be damaged.

  • Page 84: Cassette Tapes

    Troubleshooting (continued) LCD screen/viewfinder An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or viewfinder. • The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 51). Touch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” to cancel [DEMO MODE]. An unknown indicator appears on the screen.

  • Page 85: Memory Stick Duo

    The cassette is not ejected even when the cassette lid is open. • Moisture condensation is starting in your camcorder (p. 111). The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a cassette with Cassette Memory. • This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory, so the indicator does not appear. The remaining tape indicator is not displayed.
  • Page 86 Troubleshooting (continued) You cannot mark pictures for print. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 106) • Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 67). • The maximum number of pictures you can mark for print is 999. •...
  • Page 87 • The video head may be dirty. Use a cleaning cassette (optional). • Try again from the beginning. • Use a Sony mini DV cassette. (Auto redeye reduction) is selected, you cannot use the internal Continued ...
  • Page 88 Troubleshooting (continued) Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 91). The auto focus does not function. • Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 42). • The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 42). [STEADYSHOT] does not function.
  • Page 89 The picture appears too dark on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. • The LCD backlight is turned off. Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds to turn on the backlight (p. 14). Flickering or changes in color occurs.
  • Page 90 Troubleshooting (continued) Fine patterns flicker, diagonal lines look jagged. • Adjust [SHARPNESS] to the No sound or only a low sound is heard. • Set [MULTI-SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 53). • Turn up the volume (p. 23). • Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST2/REAR] (additional sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p.
  • Page 91 Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 56). • Remove any obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. • Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting.
  • Page 92 Troubleshooting (continued) You cannot use [WHITE BAL.]. • You cannot use [WHITE BAL.] when you use NightShot or [SUPER NS]. You cannot adjust [SHARPNESS]. • You cannot adjust [SHARPNESS] with [CINEMA EFECT] of [D. EFFECT]. You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS]. •...
  • Page 93 You cannot use [D. EFFECT]. • You cannot use [D. EFFECT] together with: – [SUPER NS] – [COLOR SLOW S] – [FADER] • You cannot use [CINEMA EFECT], [SLOW SHUTTR], and [OLD MOVIE] together with [PROGRAM AE] (except [AUTO]). • You cannot use [OLD MOVIE] together with: –...

  • Page 94: Connecting To A Computer

    Troubleshooting (continued) New sound added to a recorded tape is not heard. • Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST1/FRONT] (original sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 65). Still pictures cannot be dubbed from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo.” •...
  • Page 95 Finish any camcorder operations before connecting the camcorder to the computer. The “Memory Stick” icon ([Removable Disk] or [Sony Memory Stick]) does not appear on the computer screen. • Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder.
  • Page 96 – [USB Composite Device] in the [Universal Serial Bus Controller] folder For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK].
  • Page 97 For copying and viewing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” – [? Sony Handycam] or [? Sony DSC] with a “?” mark in the [Other devices] folder 5 When the [Confirm Device Removal] screen appears, click [OK]. 6 Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the computer.
  • Page 98 2 Double-click the icon for the newly recognized drive [Removable Disk (F:)] (For Windows XP, [Sony Memory Stick]). It may take some time until the drive is recognized. If the computer does not recognize it, the USB driver may be installed incorrectly.
  • Page 99 The CD-R drive is not recognized or data cannot be written on the CD-R in Picture Package Auto Video, Producer, CD Backup, or VCD Maker. • For compatible drives, visit the following URL: http://www.ppackage.com/ [USB streaming... This function is not available.] appears on the screen of your camcorder.

  • Page 100: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:(or E:) : (Self-diagnosis display) C:04:...
  • Page 101  (Eject cassette warning)* Slow flashing: • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 105). Fast flashing: • Moisture condensation has occurred (p. 111). • The self-diagnosis display code is displayed (p. 100).  (Warning indicator pertaining to image deletion)* •...
  • Page 102 Warning indicators and messages (continued)  The tape has reached the end. • Rewind or change the tape.  “Memory Stick Duo” Insert a Memory Stick (p. 18). Reinsert the Memory Stick. • Reinsert the “Memory Stick Duo” a few times. If even then the indicator flashes, the “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 103 Cannot print. Check the printer. • Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it.  Flash Charging… Cannot record still images. • You are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional). ...

  • Page 104: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Power supply You can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within the AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b].

  • Page 105: Usable Cassette Tapes

    Usable cassette tapes You can use mini DV format cassettes only. Use a cassette with the mark. is a trademark. Your camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory. To prevent a blank section from being made on the tape Go to the end of the recorded section using [END SEARCH] (p.

  • Page 106: About The "Memory Stick

    About the “Memory Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable IC recording medium with a data capacity that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,” which is about the half size of a standard “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 107  On handling a “Memory Stick” Keep the following in mind when handling a “Memory Stick Duo.” • Be careful not to apply excessive force when writing on a memo area on a “Memory Stick Duo.” • Do not attach a label or the like on a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 108: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (A series). Your camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” A series battery packs have the mark. What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between your...

  • Page 109: About I.link

    • 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 110: Maintenance And Precautions

    DV Interface, see page 60. This unit can also be connected to other i.LINK (DV Interface) compatible devices made by Sony (e.g. a VAIO series personal computer) as well as to video devices. Before connecting this unit to your computer, make sure that application software supported by this unit is already installed on your computer.

  • Page 111: Moisture Condensation

    • 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 112 Maintenance and precautions (continued) after using a cleaning cassette, it might be because the video head is worn. Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to have the video head replaced. LCD screen • Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage.

  • Page 113: Rechargeable Battery

    Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

  • Page 114: Using The Strap Belt As A Wrist Strap

    Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap This is useful for carrying your camcorder. Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad  and remove it from the ring . Hand pad Move the hand pad fully to the right , then close the hook and loop fastener again .

  • Page 115: Specifications

    Specifications System Video recording 2 rotary heads, Helical system scanning system Still image Exif Ver. 2.2* recording system Audio recording Rotary heads, PCM system system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1, stereo 2), 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Usable cassette...
  • Page 116 Specifications (continued) Average power During camera recording using consumption the viewfinder 3.0 W (when using the battery pack) During camera recording using the LCD 3.3 W (when using the battery pack) Operating 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 temperature °F) Storage...
  • Page 117 Index Numeric 4CH audio check ... See AUDIO MIX 4CH MIC REC recording ... 24, 54 A/V connecting cable ... 34, 60, 64, 80  DV OUT... 55 A/V jack ... 34, 60, 64, 80 Access lamp ... 18 Active Interface Shoe... 69 AC Adaptor ...

  • Page 118: Index

    Index (continued) Folder NEW FOLDER... 47 PB FOLDER (Playback folder) ... 47 REC FOLDER (Recording folder) ... 47 FORMAT ... 47, 106 Frame-by-frame playback... 52 FRAME REC (Frame recording) ... 50 Full charge ... 11 Getting started... 9, 72, 76 GUIDEFRAME ...
  • Page 119 NIGHTSHOT switch ... 24 NORMAL ... 45 NS LIGHT (NightShot Light) ... 43 NTSC ... 104 Number of recordable pictures ... 45 OLD MOVIE ... 50 ONE PUSH ... 41 OPEN/EJECT lever... 17 Operation confirmation beep ...See BEEP OUTDOOR ... 41 OVERLAP ...
  • Page 120 Index (continued) STILL SET... 45 Strap Belt ... 114 Sub sound... 53 SUNSET&MOON ... 40 SUPER NS (Super NightShot) ... 43 System requirement ... 71 S VIDEO cable... 34, 60 S VIDEO jack ... 34, 60 Tape... See Cassette Tape counter... 28 Tape playback select button ...
  • Page 123 Sony Corporation. • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony Corporation. • Picture Package is a trademark of Sony Corporation. • is a trademark. • Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S.

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