4-170-534-11(1)

Table of contents

91 119

Getting started

Recording/Playback
Making good use of your camcorder Saving images with an external device Customizing your camcorder Additional information
HDR-CX550/CX550V/ XR550/XR550V
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

Handycam Handbook

Quick reference

2010 Sony Corporation

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) Battery pack
A button-type lithium battery is already installed. Remove the insulation sheet before using the Wireless Remote Commander.
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FV50 (1) CD-ROM Handycam Application Software (1)

PMB Handycam

The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See About handling of your camcorder (p.114). Even if the camcorder is turned off, the GPS function is working as long as the GPS switch is set to ON. Make sure that the GPS switch is set to OFF during take off and landing of an airplane (HDR-CX550V/XR550V).
(software, including PMB Help) Handbook (PDF)
Menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder and lens

Operating Guide (1)

See page 19 for the memory card you can use with this camcorder.

Using the camcorder

Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by the jack covers.
A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions. The LCD screen and viewfinder are manufactured using extremely high-precision technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen. These points are normal results of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.

Viewfinder

LCD Screen

Black points

White, red, blue or green points
Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause malfunctions.
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

You may not be able to play back normally images recorded on your camcorder with other devices. Also, you may not be able to play back images recorded on other devices with your camcorder.
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).
Discs recorded with HD image quality (high definition)

On recording

To ensure stable operation of the memory card, it is recommended to initialize the memory card with your camcorder before the first use (p.85). Initializing the memory card will erase all the data stored on it and the data will be irrecoverable. Save your important data on your PC etc. Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the image and sound are recorded without any problems. Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot be provided, even if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of the camcorder, recording media, etc. TV color systems differ depending on the country/region. To view your recordings on a TV, you need a NTSC system-based TV. Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the copyright laws.
This camcorder captures high definition footage in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD based players or recorders, as the DVD player/ recorder may fail to eject the media and may erase its contents without warning. DVD media containing AVCHD footage may be played on a compatible Blu-ray Disc player/recorder or other compatible device.
Save all your recorded image data
To prevent your image data from being lost, save all your recorded images on external media periodically. It is recommended that you save the image data on a disc such as DVD-R, etc. using your computer. Also, you can save your image data using a VCR, or a DVD/HDD recorder (p.59). You cannot make a AVCHD disc from the image data recorded with

[Show others] [

(MENU)

REC MODE] (under

[SHOOTING SET] category) set to [HD FX]. Save them on a Blu-ray Disc or using an external media (p.57).

Notes on playing back

Notes on battery pack/AC Adaptor
The camcorder is compatible with MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile for high definition image quality (HD) recording. Therefore, you cannot play back images recorded with high definition image quality (HD) on the camcorder with the following devices; Other AVCHD format compatible devices which are not compatible with High Profile Devices which are not compatible with the AVCHD format
Be sure to remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor after turning off the camcorder. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the camcorder, holding both the camcorder and the DC plug.
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).
When the camcoder is connected to a computer or accessories
Do not try to format the recording media of the camcorder using a computer. If you do so, your camcorder may not operate correctly. When connecting the camcorder to another device with communication cables, be sure to insert the connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the terminal and may result in a malfunction of the camcorder.
CX550/CX550V) and the hard disk (HDRXR550/XR550V) of the camcorder and the memory card are called recording media. In this manual, the DVD disc recorded with high definition image quality (HD) is called AVCHD disc. Design and specifications of your camcorder and accessories are subject to change without notice.
Confirm the model name of your camcorder
If you cannot record/play back images, perform [MEDIA FORMAT]
The model name is shown in this manual when there is a difference in specification between models. Confirm the model name on the bottom of your camcorder. The main differences in specification of this series are as follows.

Press MODE to turn on the

(Photo) lamp.

The LCD screen display switches for photo recording mode, and the screen aspect ratio becomes 4:3.
Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.
You can record photos also by touching on the LCD screen.

Flashes Lights up

disappears, the photo is recorded.
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. If you record photos using a flash with a conversion lens (sold separately), the shadow may be reflected.
If white circular spots appear on photos
This is caused by particles (dust, pollen, etc.) floating close to the lens. When they are accentuated by the camcorders flash, they appear as white circular spots. To reduce the white circular spots, light the room and shoot the subject without a flash.
Particles (dust, pollen, etc.) in the air

Subject

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]. Tips You can set [ DIGITAL ZOOM] (p.79) if you want to zoom to a greater level.
Recording better images automatically (INTELLIGENT AUTO)
* By pressing , you can record images using the INTELLIGENT AUTO function. When you turn the camcorder toward the subject, the camcorder records using the optimum combination of the three detection modes: Face detection, Scene detection and Camera-shake detection. When the camcorder detects the subject, the icons that correspond to the detected condition are displayed.
Tips In the default setting, INTELLIGENT AUTO is set to ON.
Wider range of view (Wide angle)
* HDR-CX550/CX550V ** HDR-XR550/XR550V

Close view (Telephoto)

Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
Notes Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom lever. If you move your finger off the power zoom lever, the operation sound of the power zoom lever may also be recorded. You cannot change the zoom speed with the / button on the LCD screen.

Face detection (Portrait), (Baby) The camcorder detects faces, and adjusts the focus, color, and exposure.
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.
Notes The camcorder may not detect the expected scene or subject, depending on the recording conditions. You cannot use the flash depending on the scenes detected.

[TELE [

MACRO] STEADYSHOT] STEADYSHOT] [ [AUTO BACK LIGHT] [LOW LUX] [FACE DETECTION] [SMILE PRIORITY]
Notes Above settings are reset to the default settings when INTELLIGENT AUTO is set to ON.
Selecting high definition image quality (HD) or standard image quality (STD)
You can select the desired image quality from the high definition image quality (HD) that enables you to record fine images, or the standard definition image quality (STD) that has more compatibility with various playback devices. Change the image quality according to the recording situation or the playback device.
To cancel INTELLIGENT AUTO
Press. or the detection mode icons disappear, and you can record with the preferred settings. Also, the INTELLIGENT AUTO setting is canceled if you change the following settings: NightShot [IRIS] [SHUTTER SPEED] [AE SHIFT] [WB SHIFT] [GOLF SHOT] [SMTH SLW REC] [SCENE SELECTION] [WHITE BAL.] [SPOT MTR/FCS] [SPOT METER] [SPOT FOCUS] [EXPOSURE] [FOCUS]
(MENU) [Show Touch others] [ / SET] (under [SHOOTING SET] category). HD QUALITY] to Touch [ record high definition image quality (HD) images, or touch [ STD QUALITY] to record standard definition image quality (STD) images. Touch [YES] .
Recording image quality is changed.
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

High quality recording
(MENU) [Show Touch others] [ REC MODE] (under [SHOOTING SET] category). Touch a desired setting.
If you want to record high quality images with the high definition image quality (HD), select the FX or FH mode. If you want to record longer movies, select the LP mode.
Tips Movies are recorded with AVCHD 1920 1080/60i format when the FX or FH mode of the high definition image quality (HD) is selected. And when the HQ or LP mode of the high definition image quality (HD) is selected, movies are recorded with AVCHD 1440 1080/60i format. Movies are recorded with MPEG-2 format when the standard image quality (STD) is selected. You can select the following high definition image quality (HD) recording mode. 24M of [HD FX] is the maximum bit-rate, and the value other than of [HD FX], such as 17M, is an average bit-rate. [HD FX] (AVC HD 24M (FX)) [HD FH] (AVC HD 17M (FH)) [HD HQ] (AVC HD 9M (HQ)) (the default setting) [HD LP] (AVC HD 5M (LP)) The recording mode of the standard image quality (STD) is limited to the following value. 9M is an average bit-rate. [STD HQ] (STD 9M (HQ)) M, such as in 24M, means Mbps.

Prioritizing the subject

When [FACE DETECTION] (p.77) is set to [ON] (the default setting), and several faces are detected, touch the face you want to record as priority. Focus/color/exposure are adjusted automatically for the selected face. Since the face you touched has priority also with the Smile Shutter function, your camcorder records a photo automatically when it detects the smiling face.
Notes You cannot create an AVCHD disc from a movie recorded with [HD FX] mode of [ REC MODE]. Save a movie recorded with [HD FX] mode onto Blu-ray discs or external storage devices (p.57).
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.
The double-lined frame is displayed.
Touch the face with the double-lined frame again to cancel.
Notes The face you touched may not be detected, depending on the surrounding brightness or hairstyle of the subject. In this case, touch the face again when you record.
Tips You can select the subject that has priority for face detection and smile detection with [PRIORITY SETTING] (p.78). When you specify the priority subject by touching the detection frame on the LCD screen, the face with a double-lined frame has priority. If a smile is not detected, set the [SMILE SENSITIVITY] (p.78).

Playback on the camcorder
In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the following recording media are played. HDR-CX550/CX550V: Internal memory HDR-XR550/XR550V: Internal hard disk
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER (p.15).

(VIEW IMAGES). Press

The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.
You can display the VISUAL INDEX screen also by touching screen.

(VIEW IMAGES) on the LCD

or () a desired movie () to playback a movie. Touch Touch the (Photo) () a desired photo () to view a photo.
Movies are displayed and sorted by recording date.
Switches operating button display. To MENU screen Displays the screen to select the index type ([DATE INDEX]/[ MAP] (HDRCX550V/XR550V)/[ FILM ROLL]/[ FACE]) (p.36, 54, 36, 37).
/ : 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. ( appears on the photo recorded on the memory card.)

Playing movies

Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.
Volume adjustment Previous To stop To fast-reverse
Notes You may not be able to play back the images with other devices than camcorder.
Next OPTION To fast-forward To pause/play
Tips When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the INDEX screen. / during pause to play back movies slowly. Touch / during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times As you repeat touching about 10 times about 30 times about 60 times. (MENU) [Show others] [VISUAL You can also display the VISUAL INDEX by touching [PLAYBACK] category). INDEX] (under The recording date, time, and shooting conditions , and coordinates (HDR-CX550V/XR550V) are recorded automatically during recording. This information is not displayed during recording, but you can (MENU) [Show others] [PLAYBACK SET] (under display it during playback by touching [PLAYBACK] category) [DATA CODE] a desired setting . In the default setting, a protected demonstration movie is pre-recorded.
To adjust the sound volume of movies
While playing back movies, touch
You can also adjust the sound volume by using

adjust with

in the OPTION MENU.

Viewing photos

Your camcorder displays the selected photo.

Notes If movies included in the Highlight Playback scenario you are going to play are deleted or divided, the scenario is played back with those movies skipped.
Tips You can change the settings for Highlight Playback during Highlight Playback by (OPTION). touching
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] .
Using PB zoom with photos
You can magnify photos from about 1.1 to 5 times the original size. Magnification can be adjusted with the power zoom lever.
HDR-CX550/ CX550V HDR-XR550/ XR550V
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.

To change music files

You can transfer music files from audio CDs or MP3 files to your camcorder, and play them with Highlight Playback. To transfer music files, you need to install the supplied software PMB on your computer. Turn on your camcorder and computer, connect them with the supplied USB cable, then touch [DOWNLOAD MUSIC] on the camcorder screen. (If the [USB SELECT] (MENU) screen does not appear, touch [Show others] [MUSIC TOOL] (under [OTHERS] category) [DOWNLOAD MUSIC]). After the music file is transferred to the camcorder, if you cannot play the music, the music file may be damaged. Delete the (MENU) music file by touching [Show others] [MUSIC TOOL] (under [OTHERS] category) [EMPTY MUSIC], then transfer the music file again. If you delete music files using [EMPTY MUSIC], the music data recorded on your camcorder at the factory will be deleted too. In this case, you can restore them using Music Transfer, a software installed together with PMB. To start Music Transfer, click [Start] [All Programs] [PMB] [PMB Launcher] [Export] [Music Transfer]. For operating instructions, see [Music Transfer] help.
Play back the photo you want to magnify. Magnify the photo with T (Telephoto).

The screen is framed.

Touch the screen at the point you want to display in the center of the displayed frame.
The point where you touched on the screen is moved to the center of the display frame.

BLACK FADER

Fades in/out with the black effect.

ONE PUSH (

To cancel the fader before starting the operation, touch [OFF].
Tips When you press START/STOP, the setting is cleared. A movie recorded using [BLACK FADER] may be difficult to see in the VISUAL INDEX screen.
The white balance will be adjusted according to the ambient light. Touch [ONE PUSH]. Frame a white object such as a piece of paper, to fill the screen under the same lighting conditions as you will shoot the subject. Touch [ ]. flashes quickly. When the white balance has been adjusted and stored in the memory, the indicator stops flashing. Notes Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or adjust the color in [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps. When you select [ONE PUSH], keep framing is flashing quickly. white objects while flashes slowly if [ONE PUSH] could not be set. keeps When [ONE PUSH] was selected, if , set [WHITE flashing after touching BAL.] to [AUTO]. If you set [WHITE BAL.], [SCENE SELECTION] is set to [AUTO].
WHITE BAL. (White balance)
You can adjust the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.
The white balance is adjusted automatically.

OUTDOOR ( )

The white balance is appropriately adjusted for the following recording conditions: Outdoors Night views, neon signs and fireworks Sunrise or sunset Under daylight fluorescent lamps
Tips If you have changed the battery pack while [AUTO] was selected, or taken your camcorder outdoors after inside use (or vice versa), aim your camcorder at a nearby white object for about 10 seconds for better color balance adjustment. When the white balance has been set with [ONE PUSH], if the lighting conditions changed by bringing your camcorder outdoors
from inside the house, or vice versa, you need to redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure to readjust the white balance.

touch [AUTO].

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.
Notes [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

SPOT FOCUS

You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located at the center of the screen.
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].

* HDR-CX550V/XR550V

Tips The data code is displayed on the TV screen if you connect your camcorder to a TV. The indicator toggles through the following sequences as you press DATA CODE on the Wireless Remote Commander: [DATE/TIME] [CAMERA DATA] [COORDINATES](HDR-CX550V/XR550V) [OFF] (no indication). Depending on the recording media condition, bars [--:--:--] appear.

Date Time

SteadyShot off Brightness White balance Gain Shutter speed

(Items for editing)

OTHERS
(Items for other settings)

DELETE

See page 44.
YOUR LOCATION (HDRCX550V/XR550V)

See page 52.

SCENARIO ERASE

USB CONNECT

See page 63.

PROTECT

See page 45.

TV CONNECT Guide

See page 41.

DIVIDE

See page 46.

MUSIC TOOL

See page 39.

PHOTO CAPTURE

See page 47.

BATTERY INFO

You can check the estimated remaining capacity of the battery.

MOVIE DUB

See page 48.

PHOTO COPY

See page 49.

PLAYLIST EDIT

To close the battery information screen

MANAGE MEDIA

(Items for recording media)
the memory card from your camcorder (The access lamp is lit or flashing while formatting memory card.).

MEDIA SETTINGS

See page 18.
To prevent data on the internal recording media from being recovered
[EMPTY] allows you to write unintelligible data onto the internal recording media of the camcorder. In this way it may become more difficult to recover any original data. When you dispose of or transfer the camcorder, it is recommended that you perform [EMPTY]. When the internal recording media is selected on the [MEDIA FORMAT] screen, touch [EMPTY].

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

Notes Since there is a management file area, the used space is not displayed as 0% even if you perform [MEDIA FORMAT] (p.85).
Tips Only the information of the medium selected on [MOVIE MEDIA SET] (p.18) is displayed. Change the medium setting if necessary.

MEDIA FORMAT

Formatting deletes all the movies and photos to recover recordable free space. Select the recording media to be formatted,. touch [YES] [YES]
Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using AC Adaptor supplied for this operation (p.14). To avoid the loss of important images, you should save them before formatting the recording media. Protected movies and photos will also be deleted. While [Executing] is displayed, do not close the LCD screen, operate the buttons on the camcorder, disconnect the AC Adaptor, or eject

The camcorder does not operate even when the power is set to on.
It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be ready to shoot after the power is turned on. This is not a malfunction. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute. If the functions still do not work, press RESET (p.122) using a pointed object. (If you press RESET, all settings, including the clock setting, are reset.) The temperature of your camcorder is extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and leave it for a while in a cool place. The temperature of your camcorder is extremely low. Leave your camcorder with the power of your camcorder on. Turn off your camcorder and take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder there for a while, then turn on your camcorder.
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.] [SPOT MTR/FCS] [SPOT METER] [SPOT FOCUS] [EXPOSURE] [FOCUS] [LOW LUX] [BLT-IN ZOOM MIC] [MICREF LEVEL] [AUTO BACK LIGHT] [IRIS] [SHUTTER SPEED] [DROP SENSOR] (HDR-XR550/XR550V) The following menu items return to the default settings when you switch between movie recording and photo recording and playback modes. [ FADER] [TELE MACRO] [ SELF-TIMER]
Another DVD device malfunctions when you use the supplied Wireless Remote Commander.
Select a commander mode other than DVD 2 for your DVD device, or cover the sensor of your DVD device with black paper.

Batteries/power sources

The power abruptly turns off.
Use the AC Adaptor. In the default setting, when about 5 minutes have elapsed while you do not operate your camcorder, the camcorder is automatically turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the setting of [A.SHUT OFF] (p.89), or turn on the power again. Charge the battery pack (p.12).
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being charged.
Your camcorder gets warm.
Your camcorder may become warm during operation. This is not a malfunction.
Close the LCD screen (p.12). Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p.12). Connect the power cord (mains lead) to the wall outlet (wall socket) properly. The battery charge is completed (p.12).
The supplied Wireless Remote Commander does not function.
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged.
Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p.90). Insert a battery into the battery holder with the +/ polarities correctly matching the +/ marks (p.124). Remove any obstructions between the Wireless Remote Commander and the remote

Touch the LCD screen lightly. Press DISPLAY on the Wireless Remote Commander (p.123).
The file is damaged. The file format is not supported by your camcorder (p.112).
Refer also to Memory card (p.93). Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not record images.
The buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly or do not work at all.
Adjust the touch panel ([CALIBRATION]) (p.115).
The buttons on the touch panel quickly disappear.
Set [DISPLAY SET] to [ON] (p.87).
The playback screen is displayed. Press MODE to turn on the (Movie) or (Photo) lamp (p.21). Your camcorder is recording the image you have just shot on the recording media. You
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-XR550/ XR550V) The temperature of your camcorder is extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and leave it for a while in a cool place. The temperature of your camcorder is extremely low. Turn off your camcorder and take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder there for a while, then turn on the camcorder.
Even if auto flash or (Auto redeye reduction) is selected, you cannot use the flash with: NightShot [IRIS] or [SHUTTER SPEED] that is assigned to the MANUAL dial [SPOT MTR/FCS] [SPOT METER] [MANUAL] in [EXPOSURE] [TWILIGHT], [SUNRISE&SUNSET], [FIREWORKS], [LANDSCAPE], [SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH] or [SNOW] in [SCENE SELECTION]
The actual recording time for movies is less than the expected recording time of the recording media.
Photos cannot be recorded.
You cannot record photos together with: [ FADER] [GOLF SHOT] [SMTH SLW REC] When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you cannot record photos while recording movies.
Depending on the recording conditions, the time available for recording may be shorter, for example when recording a fast moving object, etc. (p.104).
The camcorder stops operating.
The access lamp remains lit or flashing even if recording was stopped.

[SCENE SELECTION]

NightShot
Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators
[GOLF SHOT], [SMTH SLW REC]
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or viewfinder, check the following. If the problem persists even after you have tried to fix a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. In this case, when you contact them, give them all the numbers of the error code beginning with C or E.
(High temperature warning)
Slow flashing The temperature of your camcorder is getting higher. Turn off your camcorder and leave it for a while in a cool place. Fast flashing The temperature of your camcorder is extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and leave it for a while in a cool place.
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).
(Low temperature warning)
Fast flashing The temperature of your camcorder is extremely low. Make the camcorder warm.
C:06: The battery pack temperature is high. Change the battery pack or place it in a cool place.
C:13: / C:32: Remove the power source. Reconnect it and operate your camcorder again.
(Warning indicator pertaining to memory card)
Slow flashing Free spaces for recording images are running out. For the type of memory card you can use with your camcorder, see page 19. No memory card is inserted (p.19). Fast flashing There are not enough free spaces for recording images. After storing the images on other media (p.57), delete unnecessary images, or format the memory card (p.85). The image data base file may be damaged. Check the data base file by touching (MENU) [Show others] [REPAIR IMG.DB F.] (under [MANAGE MEDIA] category) the recording medium. The memory card is damaged.
E:: Follow the steps from to on page 91.
(Warning on the internal hard disk of the camcorder)
Fast flashing The internal hard disk of the camcorder is full. An error may have occurred with the internal hard disk of the camcorder.

(Battery level warning)

Slow flashing The battery pack is nearly used up. Depending on the operating environment or battery conditions, may flash, even if there are about 20 minutes remaining.
(Warning indicators pertaining to memory card formatting)
(Warning indicator pertaining to battery pack temperature)
The battery pack temperature is high. Change the battery pack or place it in a cool place.
The memory card is damaged. The memory card is not formatted correctly (p.85).
(Warning indicator pertaining to incompatible memory card)
When [ REC MODE] is set to [HD FX], you cannot record photos while recording movies.

HD stands for high definition image quality, and STD stands for standard image quality.
Expected time of recording and playback with each battery pack

Recording time

Approximate time available when you use a fully charged battery pack. HDR-CX550/CX550V
(unit: minute) Battery pack Image quality NP-FV50 (supplied) NP-FV70 NP-FV100 Continuous recording time HD STD Typical recording time HD STD 225 310
Typical recording time shows the time when you repeat recording start/stop, switching the MODE lamp, and zooming. Times measured when using the camcorder at 25 C (77 F). 10 C to 30 C (50 F to 86 F) is recommended. The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperatures. The recording and playback time will be shorter depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder.

Playing time

(unit: minute) Battery pack Image quality NP-FV50 (supplied) NP-FV70 NP-FV100 HD STD Additional information
(unit: minute) Battery pack Image quality NP-FV50 (supplied) NP-FV70 NP-FV100
Continuous recording time HD STD 405 555
Typical recording time HD STD 200 275
Top: When the LCD screen is opened Bottom: When recording with the viewfinder without opening the LCD screen Each recording time is measured when the [ REC MODE] is set to HQ.

HD 650 710

STD 830 925
Top: When the LCD screen is opened Bottom: When playing with the viewfinder without opening the LCD screen
Expected recording time of movies

Internal memory

HDR-CX550/CX550V 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-CX550 HDR-CX550V 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 26 h 55 m 26 h 35 m
Standard definition image quality (STD) in h (hour) and m (minute)
Recording mode [STD HQ] (5.1ch)* [STD HQ] (2ch)* Recording time HDR-XR550 HDR-XR550V 59 h 40 m 59 h 20 m 61 h 20 m 61 h 10 m
* You can change the recording sound format with

[AUDIO MODE] (p.79).

Recording mode [STD HQ] (5.1ch)* [STD HQ] (2ch)* Recording time HDR-CX550 HDR-CX550V 15 h 50 m 15 h 35 m 16 h 15 m 16 h 5 m

Internal hard disk

HDR-XR550/XR550V 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-XRh 29 h 20 m 59 h 30 m 96 h 30 m 101 h 20 m HDR-XR550V 22 h 50 m 29 h 10 m 59 h 20 m 96 h 10 m 101 h
Tips You can record movies of a maximum of 3,999 scenes with high definition image quality (HD), and 9,999 scenes with standard definition image quality (STD). The maximum continuous recording time of movies is approximately 13 hours. If you want to record up to the maximum recording time indicated in the table, you need to delete the demonstration movie on your camcorder. Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit Rate) format to automatically adjust image quality to suit the recording scene. This technology causes fluctuations in the recording time of the media. Movies containing quickly moving and complex images are recorded at a higher bit-rate, and this reduces the overall recording time.

4-170-538-11(1)
HDR-CX550/CX550V/ XR550/XR550V
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. Puede encontrar ms informacin sobre este producto y respuestas a las preguntas ms frecuentes en nuestro sitio Web de atencin al cliente.

Gua de operaciones

http://www.sony.net/
Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Impreso en papel reciclado en un 70% o ms utilizando tinta hecha con aceite vegetal exento de compuesto orgnico voltil (COV).

Printed in Japan

2010 Sony Corporation

Owners 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. HDRSerial No. Model No. ACSerial No.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. Do not expose the batteries to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the products enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Read these instructions. Keep these instructions. Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use this apparatus near water. Clean only with dry cloth. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped. If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the proper configuration for the power outlet.
Representative plug of power supply cord of countries/regions around the world.

A Type (American Type)

B Type BF Type B3 Type (British Type) (British Type) (British Type)

C Type (CEE Type)

SE Type (CEE Type)

O Type (Ocean Type)

The representative supply voltage and plug type are described in this chart. Depend on an area, Different type of plug and supply voltage are used. Attention: Power cord meeting demands from each country shall be used. For only the United States Use a UL Listed, 1.5-3 m (5-10 ft.), Type SPT-2 or NISPT-2, AWG no. 18 power supply cord, rated for 125 V 7 A, with a NEMA 1-15P plug rated for 125 V 15 A. Europe

Countries/regions

Austria Belgium Czech Denmark Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Luxemburg Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia Slovak Spain Sweden Switzerland UK

Voltage

127/230 240

Frequency (Hz)

Plug type
C C C C C C C C C C C/BF C C C C C C C C C C C C BF
China Hong Kong India Indonesia Japan Korea (rep) Malaysia Philippines Singapore Taiwan Thailand

220 200/220 230/240 127/220/110 220
A BF C C A C BF A/C BF A C/BF

Vietnam

Oceania

Australia New Zealand

240 230/240

North America

Canada USA

120 120

Central America
Bahamas Costa Rica Cuba Dominican (rep) El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Jamaica Mexico Nicaragua Panama
120/110/120/127 120/240 110/220

A A A/C A A A A A A A A

South America
Argentina Brazil Chile Colombia Peru Venezuela

220 127/120

C/BF/O A/C C A A/C A

Middle East

Iran Iraq Israel Saudi Arabia Turkey UAE

230 127/240

C/BF C/BF C A/C/BF C C/BF

Africa

Algeria Congo (dem) Egypt Ethiopia Kenya Nigeria South Africa Tanzania Tunisia

127/220/220

C C C C C/BF C/BF C/BF C/BF C

Read this first

Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. socket) immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder. Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power source (mains) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor. Excessive sound pressure from earphones and headphones cause hearing loss.

CAUTION

Battery pack
If the battery pack is mishandled, the battery pack can burst, cause a fire or even chemical burns. Observe the following cautions.
Do not disassemble. Do not crush and do not expose the battery pack to any shock or force such as hammering, dropping or stepping on it. Do not short circuit and do not allow metal objects to come into contact with the battery terminals. Do not expose to high temperature above 60C (140F) such as in direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun. Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire. Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Be sure to charge the battery pack using a genuine Sony battery charger or a device that can charge the battery pack. Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small children. Keep the battery pack dry. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by Sony. Dispose of used battery packs promptly as described in the instructions.
For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA
RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you. For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-822- 8837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/ Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking LithiumIon batteries.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HDR-CX550V Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HDR-XR550V Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
For the State of California , USA only
Perchlorate Material special handling, may apply, See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/ perchlorate Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery contains perchlorate.

Viewfinder

LCD Screen

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) Battery pack
A button-type lithium battery is already installed. Remove the insulation sheet before using the Wireless Remote Commander.
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FV50 (1) CD-ROM Handycam Application Software (1) (p.39)

PMB Handycam

The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See Precautions (p.68). Even if the camcorder is turned off, the GPS function is working as long as the GPS switch is set to ON. Make sure that the GPS switch is set to OFF during take off and landing of an airplane (HDR-CX550V/XR550V).
(software, including PMB Help) Handbook (PDF)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
Menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder and lens
See page 22 for the memory card you can use with this camcorder.

Using the camcorder

Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by the jack covers.
A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions. The LCD screen and viewfinder are manufactured using extremely high-precision technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen. These points are normal results of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.

Recording/Playback

Recording. Acquiring location information using the GPS (HDR-CX550V/XR550V). Adjusting for shooting conditions. Playback on the camcorder. Playing images on a TV.
Making good use of your camcorder
Deleting movies and photos. 36
Saving movies and photos with a computer
Preparing a computer (Windows). When using a Macintosh. Starting PMB (Picture Motion Browser). Selecting the method for creating a disc (computer). Creating a disc with one touch (One Touch Disc Burn). Importing movies and photos to a computer. Creating an AVCHD disc. Playing an AVCHD disc on a computer. Creating a Blu-ray disc. Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc that can be played on ordinary DVD players.. Copying a disc.. Editing movies. Capturing photos from a movie. 48
Saving images with an external device
Saving images in external media (DIRECT COPY). 49. Creating a disc with a DVD writer, recorder. 51
Customizing your camcorder
Using menus.. 58 Getting detailed information from the Handycam Handbook. 65

Additional information

Troubleshooting. 66 Precautions.. 68 Specifications. 70

Quick reference

Screen indicators.. 75 Parts and controls. 76 Index.. 79
Step 1: Charging the battery pack

HDR-CX550/CX550V

DC IN jack AC Adaptor DC plug
/CHG (flash/charge) lamp Power cord (Mains lead)
To the wall outlet (wall socket)

HDR-XR550/XR550V

DC IN jack AC Adaptor DC plug Power cord (Mains lead)

/CHG (flash/charge) lamp

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.
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. Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
Align the mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack.
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp turns off when the battery pack is fully charged.

* Internal memory * Internal hard disk

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 72 for the recordable time of movies.
Selecting the recording media for movies

Touch

(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA SETTINGS] (under [MANAGE MEDIA] category) [MOVIE MEDIA SET].
The [MOVIE MEDIA SET] screen appears.
Touch the desired recording media.

Touch [YES]

The recording medium is changed.
Selecting the recording media for photos
(MENU) [Show others] [MEDIA SETTINGS] (under [MANAGE MEDIA] category) [PHOTO MEDIA SET].
The [PHOTO MEDIA SET] screen appears.
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.

Inserting a memory card

Notes Set the recording medium to [MEMORY CARD] to record movies and/or photos on a memory card.
Types of memory card you can use with your camcorder
Only Memory Stick PRO Duo (Mark2) media, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media, SD memory cards (Class 4 or faster) and SDHC memory cards (Class 4 or faster) can be used with this camcorder. A MultiMediaCard cannot be used with this camcorder. In this manual, Memory Stick PRO Duo (Mark2) media and Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media are called Memory Stick PRO Duo media. Memory cards of up to 32 GB have been verified to operate with your camcorder.
Memory Stick PRO Duo media/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media (This size can be used with your camcorder.)
Memory Stick PRO Duo media can be used only with Memory Stick PRO media compatible equipment. Do not attach a label or the like on Memory Stick PRO Duo media or Memory Stick Duo media adaptor.
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.

Touch [High Definition TV].

A/V Remote Connector

[YES].
/ to select the input Touch jack of your TV, then touch.
When the A/V connecting cable is used to output movies, movies are output with standard definition image quality (STD).
The connection medhod is displayed.
Play back movies and photos on your camcorder (p.30).
Types of connection cables between your camcorder and TV
Connecting to a high definition TV
Component A/V Cable (supplied)
(Green) Y (Blue)PB/CB (Red)PR/CR (White) (Red)
When connecting to your TV via 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 (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, etc.).
To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3)
Set [TV TYPE] to [16:9] or [4:3] according to your TV.
HDMI Cable (sold separately)
When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack)
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR.
Connecting to a non-high-definition 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV
When you connect with component A/V cable
If you connect only component video plugs, audio signals are not output. Connect the white and red plugs to output audio signals.
When you connect with HDMI cable
A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold separately)

(White) (Red) (Yellow)

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

Use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo. Use an HDMI mini connector on one end (for the camcorder), and a plug suitable for connecting your TV on the other end. Copyright-protected images are not output from the HDMI OUT jack of your camcorder. Some TVs may not function correctly (e.g., no sound or image) with this connection. Do not connect the camcorder HDMI OUT jack to an external device HDMI OUT jack, as malfunction may result. When the connected device is compatible with 5.1ch surround sound, high definition image quality (HD) movies are output in 5.1ch surround sound automatically. Standard definition image quality (STD) movies are converted to 2ch sound.
When you connect with A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO

Other icons may appear. No icon may appear depending on the installation procedure.
The displayed recording media differ depending on the model. If the [USB SELECT] screen does not (MENU) [Show appear, touch others] [USB CONNECT] (under [OTHERS] category).
Click [Continue] on the computer screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the software.
Notes To create discs or use other functions on Windows XP, Image Mastering API v2.0 for Windows XP should be installed. If Image Mastering API v2.0 for Windows XP has not been installed yet, select it from required programs on the installation screen and install it following the procedures displayed. (The computer must be connected to the internet for the installation.) You may install Image Mastering API v2.0 for Windows XP in response to the message displayed when you try to start those functions.
Connect the camcorder to the computer during the installation of PMB. Depending on the computer, you may need to install third party software. If the installation screen appears, follow

Starting PMB (Picture

Motion Browser)
To disconnect your camcorder from the computer

Click the

Double-click the PMB short-cut icon on the computer screen.
icon at the bottom right of the desktop of the computer [Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device].
Touch [END] [YES] on the camcorder Disconnect the USB cable.

screen.

Notes If the icon is not displayed on the computer screen, click [Start] [All Programs] [ PMB] to start PMB.
Notes Access from the computer using the supplied software PMB. Do not modify the files or folders on the camcorder from the computer. The image files may be destroyed or may not be played back. Operation is not guaranteed, if you perform the above operation. When you delete image files, follow the steps on page 36. Do not delete the image files on the camcorder directly from the computer. Do not copy the files on the recording media from the computer. Operation is not guaranteed. You can create a Blu-ray disc by using a computer with a Blu-ray disc burner. Install the BD Add-on Software for PMB(p.47).
You can view, edit, or create discs of movies and photos using PMB.

Reading PMB Help

For details on how to use PMB, read the PMB Help. Double-click the PMB Help short-cut icon on the computer screen to open the PMB Help.

Notes If the icon is not displayed on the computer screen, click [Start] [All Programs] [PMB] [PMB Help]. You can also open the PMB Help from [Help] of PMB.
Selecting the method for creating a disc (computer)
Several methods for creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc or a standard definition image quality (STD) disc from high definition image quality (HD) movies or photos recorded on your camcorder are described here. Select the method that suits your disc player. Player
Blu-ray disc playback devices (a Blu-ray disc player, PlayStation3, etc.)
Choosing a method and disc type
Importing movies and photos to a
computer (p.45) Creating a Blu-ray disc* with high definition image quality (HD) (p.47) Creating a disc with one touch (One Touch Disc Burn) (p.44)
AVCHD format playback devices (a Sony Blu-ray disc player, PlayStation3, etc.)
computer (p.45) Creating a AVCHD format disc with high definition image quality (HD) (p.46) Ordinary DVD playback devices (a DVD player, a computer that can play DVDs, etc.)
computer (p.45) Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc (p.47)
* To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on Software for PMB must be installed (p.47).
Characteristics of each type of disc
Using a Blu-ray disc enables you to record high definition image quality (HD) movies of a longer duration than DVD discs. High definition image quality (HD) movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs, and a high definition image quality (HD) disc is created. You can play a high definition image quality (HD) disc on AVCHD format playback devices, such as a Sony Blu-ray disc player and a PlayStation3. You cannot play the disc on ordinary DVD players. Standard definition image quality (STD) movie converted from high definition image quality (HD) movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs, and a standard image quality (STD) disc is created.
Discs you can use with PMB
You can use 12 cm discs of following type with PMB. For Blu-ray disc, see page 47.
Disc type DVD-R/DVD+R/DVD+R DL DVD-RW/DVD+RW Features Unrewritable Rewritable
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.
Creating a disc with one touch

(One Touch Disc Burn)

Movies and photos recorded on your camcorder that have not yet been saved with One Touch Disc Burn function can be saved on a disc automatically. Movies and photos are saved on a disc with their recorded image quality.
Notes High definition image quality (HD) movies (the default setting) will make an AVCHD disc. You cannot create AVCHD discs from movies recorded with [HD FX] mode of [ REC MODE]. Creating a Blu-ray disc is not available with One Touch Disc Burn. To create a standard definition image quality (STD) disc from high definition image quality (HD) movies, import movies to a computer first (p.45), and then create a standard definition image quality (STD) disc (p.47). Install PMB beforehand (p.39), however, do not start PMB. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this operation (p.17). With One Touch Disc Burn function on your camcorder, you can save movies and photos recorded on the internal recording media only.

Follow the instructions on the screen to create a disc.
It may take a long time to create a disc.
Playing an AVCHD disc on a computer
You can play back AVCHD discs using Player for AVCHD that is installed together with PMB. To start Player for AVCHD Click [Start] [All Programs] [PMB] [PMB Launcher] [View] [Player for AVCHD]. See the Player for AVCHD help on the operation.
High definition image quality (HD) movies are marked with. You cannot save photos on a disc. To select plural movies, hold the Ctrl key down and click thumbnails.
At the top of the window, click [Create AVCHD Format Discs (HD)].
Movies may not be played smoothly depending on the computer environment.

Creating a Blu-ray disc

You can create a Blu-ray disc with a high definition image quality (HD) movie previously imported to a computer (p.45). To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on Software for PMB must be installed. Click [BD Add-on Software] on the installation screen of PMB, and install this plug-in according to the on-screen instructions.
Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc that can be played on ordinary DVD players
You can create a standard definition image quality (STD) disc by selecting movies previously imported to your computer (p.45).
Connect your computer to the internet when you install [BD Add-on Software].
Place an unused Blu-ray disc in the disc [Create Blu-ray drive, and click Disc (HD)] in step 4 of Creating an AVCHD disc (p.46). Other procedures are the same as that for creating an AVCHD disc.
Notes You may select high definition image quality (HD) movies as sources. However, image quality is converted from high definition (HD) to standard definition (STD). It will take a longer time for converting the image quality of the movies than it took to actually record the movies.
Your computer must support the creation of Blu-ray discs. BD-R (unrewritable) and BD-RE (rewritable) media are available for creating Blu-ray discs. You cannot add contents to either type of disc after creating the disc.
Start PMB (p.41). Click [Calendar] or [Index] on the left side in the window, and select the date or folder, then select the movies.
High definition image quality (HD) movies are marked with. To select plural movies, hold the Ctrl key down and click thumbnails.
At the top of the window, click [Create DVD-Video Format Discs (STD)].

Editing movies

You can cut out only necessary parts from a movie and save it as another file. Double-click the movie to be edited on PMB, then click [Show Edit Palette] on the right side of the screen [Trim Video], or select the [Manipulate] menu [Edit] [Trim Video]. See PMB Help (p.41) for details.
Capturing photos from a movie
You can save a frame of a movie as a photo file. Double-click the movie to be edited on PMB, then click [Show Edit Palette] on the right side of the screen [Save Frame]. See PMB Help (p.41) for details.

Insert a created disc into the DVD writer. The movies on the disc appear as VISUAL INDEX on the camcorder screen. Press the play button on the DVD writer.
You can play back movies on the TV screen by connecting the camcorder to a TV (p.33).
Touch [END] [EJECT DISC] on the camcorder screen and remove the disc after the operation is completed. and disconnect the USB Touch cable.
You can also operate by the camcorder screen.
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.
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.
Turn on your camcorder, and connect a DVD writer, etc. to the (USB) jack of your camcorder with the USB cable (supplied).
Creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc with a DVD writer, etc., other than DVDirect Express
Use USB cable to connect your camcorder to a disc creation device, which is compatible with high definition image quality (HD) movies, such as a Sony DVD writer. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected.
Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p.17). Sony DVD writer may not be available in some countries/regions. Always maintain the firmware of the Sony DVDirect (DVD writer) to its latest version. For details, see the following website. http://sony.storagesupport.com/
If the [USB SELECT] screen does not (MENU) [Show appear, touch others] [USB CONNECT] (under [OTHERS] category).
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket) (p.17).
Touch the recording media that contains the images on the camcorder screen.
The displayed recording media differ depending on the model.
Record movies on the connected device.
For details, refer to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected.

(GENERAL SET) category

SOUND/DISP SET VOLUME.. Adjusts the volume of playback sound (p.32). BEEP. Sets whether the camcorder sounds operation beeps or not. LCD BRIGHT.. Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen. LCD BL LEVEL. Adjusts the backlight of the LCD screen. LCD COLOR.. Adjusts the color intensity of the LCD screen. DISPLAY SET. Sets the duration that icons or indicators are displayed on the LCD screen. OUTPUT SETTINGS TV TYPE.. Converts the signal depending on the TV connected (p.33). COMPONENT. Select this option when you connect your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack (p.34). HDMI RESOLUTION. Selects the output image resolution when connecting your camcorder to a TV with an HDMI cable. DISP OUTPUT. Sets whether the on-screen displays appears on the TV screen or not. CLOCK/ LANG CLOCK SET. Sets the date and time (p.18). AREA SET.. Adjusts for a time difference without stopping the clock (p.18). AUTO CLOCK ADJ*1. Sets whether the camcorder adjusts the clock automatically by acquiring the time from GPS or not. AUTO AREA ADJ*1.. Sets whether the camcorder compensates for a time differences automatically by acquiring the current location information from GPS or not. DST SET/ SUMMERTIME.Sets the DST SET (p.18). LANGUAGE SET.. Sets the display language (p.20). POWER SETTINGS A.SHUT OFF.. Changes the [A.SHUT OFF] setting (p.17). OTHER SETTINGS DEMO MODE. Sets whether the demonstration appears or not. CALIBRATION. Calibrates the touch panel. CTRL FOR HDMI. Sets whether or not the TVs Remote Commander is to be used when the camcorder is connected to a BRAVIA Sync compatible TV with the HDMI cable (sold separately). DROP SENSOR*3. Activates or deactivates the drop sensor. REC LAMP. Sets REC LAMP to light up or not. REMOTE CTRL. Sets whether the Wireless Remote Commander is to be used or not.
*1HDR-CX550V/XR550V *2HDR-CX550/CX550V *3HDR-XR550/XR550V
Getting detailed information from the Handycam Handbook
The Handycam Handbook is a user guide designed to be read on a computer screen. The Handycam Handbook is intended to be read when you want to know more about operating your camcorder.
To view the Handycam Handbook, double-click the short-cut icon on the computer screen.
To install the Handycam Handbook on a Windows computer, place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer. On the installation screen displayed, click [Handycam Handbook].

such as by placing anything heavy on it. Do not use a deformed or damaged battery pack. Keep metal contacts clean. If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked: Consult your local authorized Sony service facility. Wash off any liquid that may have contacted your skin. If any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with plenty of water and consult a doctor.

Handling

the camcorder with above substances on your hands Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or vinyl objects for a long period of time
About care and storage of the lens
When not using your camcorder for a long time
To keep your camcorder in optimum state for a long time, turn it on and let it run by recording and playing back images about once a month. Use up the battery pack completely before storing it.
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft cloth in the following instances: When there are fingerprints on the lens surface In hot or humid locations When the lens is exposed to salty air such as at the seaside Store in a well-ventilated location subject to little dirt or dust. To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as described above.

LCD screen

On charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery
Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable battery to retain the date, time, and other settings even when the camcorder is turned off. The preinstalled rechargeable battery is always charged while your camcorder is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months if you do not use your camcorder at all. Use your camcorder after charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery. However, even if the preinstalled rechargeable battery is not charged, the camcorder operation will not be affected as long as you are not recording the date. Procedures Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave it with the LCD screen closed for more than 24 hours.
Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage. If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a residual image may appear on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction. While using your camcorder, the back of the LCD screen may heat up.This is not a malfunction.

Internal hard disk High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m (minute)

Recording time HDR-XR550

23 h 29 h 20 m 59 h 30 m 96 h 30 m 101 h 20 m

HDR-XR550V

22 h 50 m 29 h 10 m 59 h 20 m 96 h 10 m 101 h
On charging/recording/playback time Measured when using the camcorder at 25C (77 F) (10C to 30C (50 F to 86 F) is recommended) The recording and playback time will be shorter in low temperatures, or depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder. If you want to record up to the maximum recording time indicated in the table, you need to delete the demonstration movie on your camcorder.

59 h 40 m 61 h 20 m

59 h 20 m 61 h 10 m
* You can change the recording sound format
with [AUDIO MODE] (p.61).
Example of expected recording time of movies in a memory card (in minute)
[FX] [FH] [HQ] [LP] (5.1 ch)* [LP] (2 ch)*
For 4 GB capacity High definition (HD)
20 (20) 25 (25) 55 (40) 90 (70) 95 (75)
Standard definition (STD)

55 (50) -

with [AUDIO MODE] (p.61). The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable time. The recordable time may vary depending on the recording and subject conditions and [ REC MODE].

On trademarks

SDHC logo is a trademark.
Handycam and are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. AVCHD and AVCHD logotype are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation. Memory Stick, , Memory Stick Duo, , Memory Stick PRO Duo, , Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo, , MagicGate, , MagicGate Memory Stick and MagicGate Memory Stick Duo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. InfoLITHIUM is a trademark of Sony Corporation. x.v.Color is a trademark of Sony Corporation. BIONZ is a trademark of Sony Corporation. BRAVIA is a trademark of Sony Corporation. DVDirect is a trademark of Sony Corporation. Blu-ray Disc and the logo are trademarks. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licencing LLC. Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and DirectX are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Macintosh and Mac OS are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. PlayStation is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. NAVTEQ and the NAVTEQ MAPS logo are trademarks of NAVTEQ in the US and other countries.