DCR-TRV280
Digital8 Handycam Camcorder
Stepping into the Digital age has never been easier with the DCR-TRV280. Featuring Digital Recording along with SteadyShot Image Stabilization and NightShot Plus Technology.
Digital8 Recording The Digital8 recording format delivers 3X the color bandwidth of VHS with significantly less video noise providing stunning video performance. Digital8 records digital audio and video comparable to MiniDV on affordable Hi8 tapes. 1/6" CCD Imager, 460K Pixels Gross 1/6" CCD Imager with 290K (effective) pixels provides great detail and clarity along with outstanding digital video performance. 20X Optical/990X Digital Zoom The optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, with the Digital Zoom and interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zooms. SteadyShot Picture Stabilization System Picture stabilization system that uses motion sensors to detect and compensate for camera "shake" without compromising picture quality like some other digital stabilization systems. 2.5" SwivelScreen LCD Display4 (123K Pixels) Provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The high resolution 123K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback. USB Streaming Stay connected to family and friends by broadcasting live video with audio over the internet using the USB interface. You can even playback your favorite recorded scene on the camcorder's tape. It's like having your own video conferencing system. i.LINK 1 DV Interface A digital high-speed bi-directional interface which provides Audio/Video communication between two compatible devices. This connection allows for pure digital transfer between devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, such as camcorders, digital VTRs, capture cards and PCs. InfoLITHIUM Battery with AccuPower Meter System2 Charge the battery at anytime because unlike NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries, Sony's rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries are not subjected to a life shortening "memory effect". Sony's exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes, in either the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. Multi-Language Menu Change the menu display from English to English (Simplified), Canadian French, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Korean or Traditional Chinese. Easy Dubbing Connect the Handycam camcorder to a VCR to effortlessly make VHS copies of your home videos. The camcorder can control up to 59 brands of VCRs. NightShot Plus Infrared System With Sony's NightShot Infrared System you can capture natural looking video, even when shooting in low light. Record subjects up to 10 feet away using the built-in infrared system, but without the overall monochrome color common with earlier low-light recording systems. Stamina Battery Power Management System3 Using the optional NP-QM91D InfoLITHIUM Battery, the DCR-TRV280 can continuously record for up to 12 hours on a single full charge, providing extra long battery life. Program AE (Auto Exposure) Modes Program AE modes make recording easy even when filming in challenging situations. Choose from Portrait, Beach & Ski, Sports Lesson, Landscape, Spotlight or Sunset & Moon modes. Picture Effects Get creative when recording or playing back your videos with Sony's Picture Effect Modes. Effects available in Camera mode: Negative Art, Sepia, Monotone, Solarize, Slim, Stretch, Pastel and Mosaic. Fader Effect(s) Enhance your personal videos by adding professional looking fader effects. Choose from Black, Mosaic, White, Monotone and Stripe. Battery Information At the touch of a button, battery information is displayed on the LCD screen when charging and when the camcorder is turned off. The display will show how much the battery is charged, in 10% increments and the recordable time left when using the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. ADDITIONAL FEATURES Photo Mode Built-In White LED Light Easy Handycam Button Manual Focus End Search Titling

Specifications

General
Imaging Device: 1/6" CCD Pixel Gross: 460K Recording Media: Standard 8mm, Hi8, Digital8 (sold separately) Recording and Playback Times: SP: up to 1 hour, LP: up to 1 hour 30 min., Fast Forward/Rewind Time: up to 5 min. (using 120 min. Digital8) Video Actual: 290K Pixels Still Actual: N/A

Hardware

Viewfinder: Black and White (90K Pixels) Docking Station: N/A Microphone: Yes (Built-in)

Optics/Lens

35mm Equivalent: 42-840mm Aperture: f1.6-f2.4 Exposure: Dial (24 Steps) Filter Diameter: 37mm Focal Distance: 2.5-50mm Focus: Full Range Auto, Manual (Dial) Progressive Shutter Mode: N/A Shutter Speed: 1/60-1/4000 (AE Mode) Optical Zoom: 20X Digital Zoom: 990X Resolution: N/A Lens Type: Sony Lens
Dolby Digital Output: PCM Recording Format: Stereo

Convenience

USB Streaming: Yes SteadyShot Image Stabilization: Yes (Electronic) Accessory Shoe: N/A White Balance: Auto Memory Stick PRO Media Compatibility: N/A Still Image Mode(s): Yes (Tape) Minimum Illumination: 4 Lux (0 Lux with NightShot Infrared System)
Power Consumption: 2.5W/3.4W/3.6W (VF/LCD/VF+LCD) Battery Type: InfoLITHIUM with AccuPower Meter System (NP-FM30) Power Requirements: 7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)
Service and Warranty Information
Limited Warranty: 1 Year Parts; 90 Days Labor

Convenience Features

Easy Operation: Easy Handycam Button, End Search Multiple Language Display: Yes Remote Control: N/A Slide Show Mode: N/A Titling: Yes Light/Flash: Built-in Light (White LED)/No Movie Mode(s): N/A Scene Mode(s): Beach & Ski, Landscape, Portrait, Sports Lesson, SpotLight, Sunset & Moon Picture Effect(s): Black & White, Mosaic, Negative Art, Pastel, Sepia, Slim, Solarize and Stretch Digital Picture Effect(s): N/A PictBridge Compatible: N/A Low Light Capability: NightShot Plus system Fader Effect(s): Black, Monotone, Mosaic, White

Software

Operating System Compatibility: Microsoft Windows 98, 98SE, ME, 2000 Professional, XP Home, XP Professional, Macintosh OS X (v10.1.5 or later) Supplied Software: Picture Package Ver. 1.5

Dimensions

Weight: 1 lb 11 oz (780g) main unit only; 2 lbs (890g) inc. NP-FM30 rechargeable battery pack, cassette, lens cap and shoulder strap Measurements: 3 3/8" x 3 7/8" x 6" (85 x 98 x 151mm)

Supplied Accessories

Power Adapter/In-Camera Charger (AC-L15) InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable Battery (NPFM30) AV Cable USB Cable Lens Cap Shoulder Strap CD-ROM with USB Driver (PicturePackage Software Ver. 1.5 for Sony)
Video Recording System: 2 Rotary Heads, Helical Scanning System Video Signal System: NTSC color, EIA standards Analog-to-Digital Converter: N/A

Optional Accessories

Quick Charger for Super QuickBatteries (ACSQ950D) AC/DC Adapter Quick Charger (AC-VQ850D) Portable AC Charger (DC-VM50) Car Battery Adapter Cable (DCC-L50) High Capacity InfoLITHIUM Batteries (NPFM50/QM71D/FM91/QM91D) Carrying Case (LCS-VA2) Carrying Case (LCS-VA1) Handycam Camcorder Starter Kit (ACCKITFM50) Wide Angle Lens (VCL-0637H) High-Grade Wide Angle Lens (VCL-HG0737X) Wide Angle Lens (VCL-ES06A) Telephoto Lens (VCL-ES20A) High Grade Telephoto Lens (VCL-R2037X) Neutral Density Filter Set (VFR-37K) Polarizing Filter Kit (VF-37PK) Lightweight Tripod (VCT-R610) Pocket Tripod (VCT-TK1) UPC Code: 027242666627

Inputs and Outputs

LANC Terminal: N/A Analog Audio/Video Input(s): Yes (Mini Plug) Analog Audio/Video Output(s): Yes (Mini Plug) Digital Audio/Video Input(s): Yes (via 1 i.LINK) Digital Audio/Video Output(s): Yes (via 1 i.LINK) USB Port(s): Yes (1.1 compliant) i.LINK Interface: Yes 1 Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s): N/A Headphone Jack: N/A Microphone Input: N/A Remote Jack: N/A S-Video Input(s): N/A S-Video Output(s): N/A HDMI Connection Output(s): N/A
1. i.LINK is a trademark of Sony, used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connector. All products with an IEEE1394 connector may not communicate with each other. 2. Designed for use with compatible Sony InfoLITHIUM batteries. 3. Actual battery life may vary based on product settings, usage patterns and environmental conditions. 4. Viewable area measured diagonally. 2008 Sony Electronics Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved. Sony, AccuPower, Advanced HAD, Handycam, i.LINK, InfoLITHIUM, like.no.other, NightShot, Picture Package, Remote Commander, SteadyShot, SwivelScreen, and worryfreedigital are trademarks of Sony. Carl Zeiss and Vario-Sonnar are trademarks of Carl Zeiss. PictBridge is a trademark of CIPA. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. Features and specifications subject to change without notice. Non-metric weights and measures are approximate. Screen Image Simulated

Display

LCD Screen: 2.5" (123K Pixels SwivelScreen 4 LCD Display)
Please visit the Dealer Network for more information at www.sony.com/dn Sony Electronics Inc. 16530 Via Esprillo San Diego, CA 92127 1-800-222-7669 www.sony.com Last Updated: 05/12/2008

Lift up the viewfinder.

Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
Battery pack DC IN jack DC plug
Power cord AC Adaptor To the wall outlet
With the v mark on the DC plug facing up, connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

v mark

Connect the power cord to the AC Adaptor. Connect the power cord to the wall outlet.
Slide the POWER switch up to (CHG) OFF.
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts.
To check the remaining battery Battery Info

DISPLAY/BATT INFO

After charging the battery
The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack.

POWER switch

To remove the battery pack
BATT (battery) release button POWER switch
You can check the battery's current charge level and its current remaining recording time both during charging or when the power is turned off.
1 Set the POWER switch to (CHG) OFF. 2 Press OPEN and open the LCD panel. 3 Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO.
The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the button pressed to view it for about 20 seconds.
BATTERY INFO BATTERY 0% CHARGE 50% LEVEL 100%
1 Lift up the viewfinder. 2 Set the POWER switch to (CHG) OFF. 3 Slide the battery pack out in the direction
of the arrow while pressing the BATT (battery) release button down.
b Note If you do not use the battery pack for a long time, use up the battery pack completely before storing it. See page 96 about storage of the battery pack.
REC TIME AVAILABLE LCD SCREEN: 81 min VIEWFINDER: 112 min
A Battery charge level: Displays approximate remaining amount of power left in the battery pack. B Approximate possible recording time using the LCD panel. C Approximate possible recording time using the viewfinder. Charging time Approximate number of minutes required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack
at 25C (77F). (10 30C (50 86F) recommended.)
NP-FM30 (supplied) NP-FM50 NP-QM71D NP-QM91D 260 360
Battery pack Continuous recording time
NP-FM50 NP-QM71D NP-QM91D 1010

Typical* recording time

TRV280:

255 385

Recording time when recording with the LCD screen on
Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25C (77F). For TRV138/338:
NP-FM30 (supplied) NP-FM50 NP-QM71D NP-QM91D 445 670
NP-FM30 (supplied) NP-FM50 NP-QM71D NP-QM91D 485 725

220 335

* Approximate number of minutes when recording while you repeatedly record, start/stop, slide the POWER switch to change the power mode, and zoom. The actual battery life may be shorter.

220 300

NP-FM30 (supplied) NP-FM50 NP-QM71D NP-QM91D 355 535
Playing time Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25C (77F). For TRV138/338:
Battery pack LCD panel opened

LCD panel closed

715 1070
Recording time when recording with the viewfinder

NP-FM30 (supplied) 175

580 865
NP-FM30 (supplied) NP-FM50 NP-QM71D NP-QM91D 390 585
b Notes The power will not be supplied from the battery pack when the AC Adaptor is connected to the DC IN jack of your camcorder, even if its power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet. The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperature. The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or the battery information will not be correctly displayed in following conditions. The battery pack is not attached correctly. The battery pack is damaged. The battery pack is fully discharged. (For Battery information only.)
Step 3: Turning the power on
You need to slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the desired power mode to record or play. When using this camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 17).
Using an outside power source
While pressing the green button, slide the POWER switch down.
The power turns on. To enter the recording or playing mode, slide the switch repeatedly until the respective lamp for the desired power mode lights up.
You can use the AC Adaptor as the power source when you do not want the battery to run out. While you are using the AC Adaptor, the battery pack will not lose its charge even when it is attached to your camcorder.
PRECAUTION Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor.
CAMERA mode: To record on a tape. PLAY/EDIT mode: To play or edit pictures on a tape.
Connect your camcorder as shown in Charging the battery pack (p. 12).

To turn off the power

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder

Adjusting the LCD panel

3 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select
[LCD BRIGHT], then press the dial (p. 51).
4 Adjust the brightness of the LCD screen
with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

5 Press MENU.

z Tips If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the lens side, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing out. If you are using the battery pack for power source, you can adjust the brightness by selecting [LCD B.L.] in the (LCD SET) menu (p. 51). The recorded picture will not be affected by this setting. You can turn off the operation confirmation beep by setting [BEEP] in the (OTHERS) menu to [OFF] (p. 57).

Recording for a longer time
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
To record wider range of view Move the power zoom lever towards W. The subject appears farther away (Wide angle). To record closer view Move the power zoom lever towards T. The subject appears closer (Telephoto).
To record for a longer time
In the (TAPE SET) menu, select [REC MODE], then [LP] (p. 52). In the LP mode, you can record longer than when recording in the SP mode (2 times longer for TRV138/338, 1.5 times longer for TRV280). A tape recorded in the LP mode should be played back only on this camcorder.
To use the zoom buttons on LCD frame
Keep W pressed to record wider range of view, and keep T pressed to record closer view.
b Notes You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons on LCD frame. To press the zoom buttons on LCD frame, support the LCD panel with your hand.

Using zoom

When the CAMERA mode is selected, you can choose zoom to magnification levels greater than 20 times, and from that point activate the digital zoom ([D ZOOM], p. 45). Occasional use of the zoom is effective, but use it sparingly for best results.

Using the built-in light

You can use the built-in light to suit your shooting situation. The recommended distance between the subject and camcorder is about 1.5 m (5 feet).

Built-in light

1 cm (approx. 1/2 inch)*
80 cm (approx. 2 5/8 feet)*
Press LIGHT repeatedly to select a setting.
The settings are displayed cyclically in the following order. No indicator displayed: Always records without using the built-in light. m
* The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus in that position of the lever.
: Automatically turns on and off according to the ambient brightness. m : Always turns on.

Recording in mirror mode

To turn off the built-in light
Press LIGHT repeatedly until no indicator appears on the screen.
b Notes The built-in video light emits very bright light, which is perfectly safe in normal use. However, avoid directly aiming the light at a subjects eyes from very close range. The battery pack discharges quickly while the builtin light is turned on. When you do not use your camcorder, turn the builtin light off and remove the battery pack to avoid turning on the built-in light accidentally. When flickering occurs while shooting in the mode, press LIGHT until appears. The built-in light may turn on/off when you use the [PROGRAM AE] or back light function while shooting in the mode. For TRV280: The built-in light is turned off during the interval time of Interval recording. When you use the conversion lens (optional), light from the built-in light is blocked and may not illuminate the subject properly.

z Tip If you record subjects in complete darkness, set [N.S. LIGHT] to [ON] in the menu settings. The maximum shooting distance using the NightShot Light is about 3 meters (10 feet). If you record subjects in dark places (such as night scene or in moonlight), set [N.S. LIGHT] to [OFF] in the menu settings. You can make image color deeper (p. 48).
Adjusting the focus manually
The focus is adjusted automatically in the default setting. You can adjust the focus manually according to the recording conditions. Use this function in the following cases.
To record a subject behind a window covered with raindrops. To record horizontal stripes. To record a subject with little contrast between the subject and its background. When you want to focus on a subject in the background.
To record a stationary subject using a tripod.
Press FOCUS in CAMERA mode.

9 appears.

Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to sharpen focus.
9 changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any further. 9 changes to when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer.
Tips for focusing manually It is easier to focus on the subject when you use the zoom function. Move the power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to adjust the focus, and then, towards W (wide angle) to adjust the zoom for recording. When you want to record a close-up image of a subject, move the power zoom lever towards W (wide angle) to fully magnify the image, then adjust the focus.
Recording a picture using various effects
To adjust the focus automatically

Press FOCUS again.

Fading in and out of a scene FADER
You can add the following effects to currently recording pictures.

[BLACK FADER]

[WHITE FADER]

[MOSAIC FADER]

[STRIPE FADER] This feature is for

TRV138/338 only.

Superimposing a title
You can insert a title when recording. You can select one of the 8 preset titles and the 2 custom titles.
[MONOTONE FADER] When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black-and-white to color. When fading out, the picture gradually changes from color to black-and-white.
Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA mode. Press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes in the standby mode (to fade in) or during recording (to fade out).

BLACK FADER

REC START/ STOP
Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA mode, then press TITLE.
Select a desired title from the displayed titles (2 original titles that you have created before and the preset titles that have been stored in your camcorder). You can create original titles (up to 2 types of title of within 20 characters each) in the following procedure. 1 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [CUSTOM1] or [CUSTOM2], then press the dial.

SPORTS* (sports Select to minimize shake when shooting fastlesson) ( ) moving subjects such as in tennis or golf.
BEACH&SKI* (beach & ski) (
Select to prevent peoples faces from appearing ) dark in strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or on a ski slope.
SUNSETMOON ** (sunset & moon) ( )
Select to maintain the atmosphere of situations such as sunsets, general night views, fireworks, and neon signs.
LANDSCAPE** Select when shooting distant subjects such as (landscape) ( ) mountains. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows that comes in between the camcorder and the subject. * Your camcorder is adjusted to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance.
**Your camcorder is adjusted to focus only on distant subjects. b Note When you set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to ON, [PROGRAM AE] does not work.

P EFFECT

For TRV138/338: You can add special effects (such as films) to a picture before recording. appears when each effect is selected. For TRV280: You can add special effects (such as films) to a picture before or after recording. appears when each effect is selected.
GOFF NEG.ART Select when not using the Picture effect setting. Select to record/play the picture with the color and brightness of the picture reversed.

SEPIA B&W SOLARIZE

Select to record/play the picture appearing in sepia. Select to record/play the picture appearing in monochrome (blackand-white). Select to record/play the picture looking like an illustration with strong contrast.
Select to record the picture appearing vertically expanded. (This effect is not available during playback.)

STRETCH

Select to record the picture appearing horizontally expanded. (This effect is not available during playback.)

PASTEL

Select to record the picture looking like a pale pastel drawing. (This effect is not available during playback.)

MOSAIC

Select to record the picture appearing mosaicpatterned. (This effect is not available during playback.)
b Note For TRV280: You cannot add effects to externally input pictures. Also, you cannot output pictures edited with Picture effects via the DV Interface.
z Tip For TRV280: You can copy pictures edited using picture effects to another tape (p. 61).

AUTO SHTR

GON OFF Select to automatically activate the electronic shutter to adjust the shutter speed when recording in bright conditions. Select when recording without using the electronic shutter.

Black A/V connecting cable (supplied) VCRs
A/V OUT jack Connecting with an i.LINK cable i.LINK cable (optional)

i.LINK jack DV Interface

White A/V connecting cable (supplied) Red Signal flow VCRs
b Notes Use the A/V connecting cable to connect your camcorder to other devices. Before connecting, make sure the [DISPLAY] setting in the (OTHERS) menu is set to [LCD] (the default setting) (p. 58). For TRV138/338: When you are connecting your camcorder to a stereo device, connect the audio plug of the A/V connecting cable to the left (white) jack on the VCR. For TRV280: When you are connecting your camcorder to a monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video jack, and the red (right channel) or the white (left channel) plug to the audio jack on the VCR.
that you cannot record the picture and sound separately. For details, see page 97.
To use an i.LINK cable for connection
For TRV280: Use an i.LINK cable (optional) to connect your camcorder to other device via the DV Interface. The video and sound signals are transmitted digitally, producing high quality pictures. Note

Dubbing to another tape

You can copy and edit the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (such as VCRs).
For TRV280: When your camcorder is connected to the VCR via the DV Interface, you cannot record the title or indicators. For TRV280: Pictures edited with Picture effect ([P EFFECT] p. 43) cannot be output via the DV Interface. For TRV280: When connected using the i.LINK cable, the recorded picture becomes rough when a picture is paused on your camcorder while recording to a VCR. z Tip For TRV138/338: To prevent deterioration of pictures, set [EDIT] to [ON] in the (PLAYER SET) menu before dubbing (p. 49).
Connect your VCR to your camcorder as a recording device (p. 59, 60). Prepare your VCR for recording.
Insert a cassette for recording. If your VCR has an input selector, set it to the input mode.
Prepare your camcorder for playback.
Insert the recorded cassette. Slide the POWER switch to select the PLAY/EDIT mode.
Start the playback on your camcorder, and record it on the VCR.
Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your VCR for details.
When the dubbing is finished, stop your camcorder and the VCR.

b Notes When dubbing using the A/V connecting cable, press DISPLAY/BATT INFO to hide indicators such as time code (p. 37). Otherwise, they will be recorded on the tape. For TRV280: When connected using the A/V connecting cable, to record the date/time and camera settings data, have it displayed on screen (p. 37).

Dubbing a tape easily

Easy Dubbing ( TRV138/338)
You can control VCR for dubbing with your camcorder easily with the VCR connected to the camcorder.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [SETUP], then press the dial.
EASY DUBBING SETUP I R SETUP PAUSE MODE I R TEST RETURN 0 ::3

[ E A S Y D UB ] : E N D

NORMAL
Step 1: Preparing your camcorder and VCR for operation
Follow the steps below when you are performing the Easy Dubbing for the first time. You can skip this setting if you have set up the VCR by the following procedure before.
b Note You cannot perform the Easy Dubbing on a VCR that does not support [IR SETUP] codes.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [IR SETUP], then press the dial.
When you connect with an A/V connecting cable, you need to check the [IR SETUP] code signal to see if your VCR can be operated by your camcorder (infrared ray emitter).
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the [IR SETUP] code of your VCR, then press the dial.
For the [IR SETUP] code of your VCR, refer to [IR SETUP] code list (p. 63). When there is more than one code listed for the manufacturer of your VCR, try each code and find the most appropriate one.
Connect your VCR to your camcorder as a recording device (p. 60). Prepare your VCR for recording.
Insert a cassette for recording. Set the input selector to input mode, if your VCR has one.
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [PAUSE MODE], then press the dial.
EASY DUBBING 0 ::SETUP I R SETUP PAUSE MODE P A U S E REC I R TEST PB RETURN
Insert a cassette for editing. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode.
NORMAL [ E A S Y D UB ] : E N D

Press EASY DUB.

EASY DUBBING START T I T LE SEL MODE SEL SETUP 0 ::0 0
Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the mode to cancel recording pause on the VCR, then press the dial.
Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your VCR for details on operation.

Display: Minimum 768 dots, colors (this product will not operate correctly at less than 768 dots or 256 colors.) Application: QuickTime 4 or later (QuickTime 5 recommended) Other: Disc drive
Installing the software and First Step Guide on a computer
You need to install the software etc., with the supplied CD-ROM on your computer before connecting your camcorder and your computer. Once you install it, the installation is not required thereafter. The software to be used varies depending on the OS system you are using. Windows computer: Picture Package (including ImageMixer VCD2) Macintosh computer: ImageMixer VCD2 For the details on the software, refer to First Step Guide.
Installing on a Windows computer
z Tips To view First Step Guide on a Windows computer, Microsoft Internet Explorer Ver.6.0 or later is recommended. It may not be displayed correctly even in a recommended environment, depending on the setting of the browser. In this case, refer to it in PDF. When you want to print out First Step Guide or cannot install it in HTML format automatically in the desired language, refer to it in PDF. To view First Step Guide in PDF, copy the PDF file, stored in the desired language folder in [FirstStepGuide] folder on the CD-ROM, to your computer. When viewing First Step Guide in HTML on your computer without using automatic installation, copy the desired language folder from the [FirstStepGuide] folder on the CD-ROM, to your computer. You can refer to First Step Guide by double-clicking index.html.
For Windows 2000/Windows XP
Log on as Administrators for installation.
Select the language for the application to be installed, then click [Next].
Confirm that your camcorder is not connected to the computer. Turn on the computer.
Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software.
Place the CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer.
The installation screen appears.

Click [Next].

If the screen does not appear 1 Double-click [My Computer]. 2 Double-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive).*
*Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer.
Read [License Agreement], check [I accept the terms of the license agreement] when you agree, then click [Next].

Click [Install].

Select where to save the software, then click [Next].
Depending on the operating system on the computer, a message appears notifying you that First Step Guide cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield Wizard. In such a case, manually copy First Step Guide to your computer according to the message instructions.
Click [Install] on the [Ready to Install the Program] screen.

Creating a DVD (Direct Access to Click to DVD)
to i.LINK (IEEE1394) connector i.LINK cable (optional)
to DV Interface BURN DVD/VCD
b Note You can only use an i.LINK cable for this operation. You cannot use a USB cable.
You can create DVDs when you connect your camcorder to a Sony VAIO series computer* that supports Click to DVD via an i.LINK cable (optional). The picture is automatically copied and written to a DVD.
* 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 Ver.1.2 (Sony original software) or later installed.
The following procedures describe how to create a DVD from a picture recorded on a tape. For system and operation requirements, visit the following URL:
Europe http://www.vaio-link.com/ USA http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support/ dvimag/ Asia Pacific Regional http://www.css.ap.sony.com/ Korea http://scs.sony.co.kr/ Taiwan http://vaio-online.sony.com/tw/vaio/ China http://www.sonystyle.com.cn/vaio/ Thailand http://www.sony.co.th/vaio/index.html Latin America http://vaio-online.sony.com/
switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/ EDIT mode.
Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source since it takes a few hours to create a DVD.
Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder. Connect your camcorder to a computer via an i.LINK cable (optional).
b Note When you connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connector in the correct direction. If you insert the connector forcibly, it may be damaged, and causes a malfunction of your camcorder. For details, see First Step Guide.
Using the Direct Access to Click to DVD function for the first time
The Direct Access to Click to DVD function enables you to copy pictures recorded on a tape to a DVD easily if your camcorder is connected to a computer. Before operating the Direct Access to Click to DVD function, follow the steps below to start Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher.
Press BURN DVD/VCD. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [DVD] on the [SELECT DISC], then press the dial.
Click to DVD starts up and the on-screen instructions appear on your computer.
1 Turn on the computer. 2 Click the start menu, then select [All

Programs].

3 Select [Click to DVD] from the programs
displayed, then click [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher]. [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] starts up.
z Tips After you start up [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] once, from then on it starts up automatically when you turn on your computer. [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] is set up for each Windows XP user.
Place a writable DVD in the disc drive of the computer. Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.
0:00:00:00 60min BURN DVD START CREATE DVD?
[EXEC] :EXECUTE [BURN DVD/VCD] : CANCEL

Turn on the computer.

cSee page 19. cThe camcorder is in [DEMO MODE]. (The [DEMO MODE] is automatically displayed when you leave the camcorder for 10 minutes after selecting CAMERA without inserting a cassette.) Insert a cassette to cancel [DEMO MODE]. You can also set [DEMO MODE] to [OFF] in the menu. (p. 56) cRefer to the indicator list. (p. 108) cUse the viewfinder lens adjustment lever to adjust the lens. (p. 16) cClose the LCD panel. The picture is not displayed in the viewfinder when the LCD panel is open. (p. 16)
An unknown indicator appears on the screen. The picture in the viewfinder is not clear. The picture in the viewfinder has disappeared.
The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP.
cSlide the POWER switch to turn on the CAMERA lamp. (p. 15) cThe tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette. cSet the write-protect tab to REC or insert a new cassette. (p. 95) cThe tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette. (p. 99) [A.SHUT OFF] in the (OTHERS) menu is set to [5 min]. (p. 57) cWhen approximately 5 minutes have elapsed while you do not operate your camcorder, the camcorder is automatically turned off. Slide the POWER switch down to turn the power on again (p. 15). Or use the AC Adaptor. The battery pack is discharged. (p. 12) cSet [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] in the (CAMERA SET) menu. (p. 48) cSet [16:9 WIDE] to [OFF] in the (CAMERA SET) menu. (p. 46) cPress FOCUS to enable auto focus. (p. 29) cThe recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually. (p. 29) This occurs when the contrast between the subject and the background is too high. This is not a malfunction. This phenomenon is called the smear effect. This is not a malfunction. cDeactivate the NightShot plus function. (p. 28) cDeactivate the NightShot plus function in bright places. (p. 28) cCancel the back light function. (p. 27) cSet [BEEP] to [MELODY] or [NORMAL] in the (p. 57) cSet [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] in the (p. 48) (OTHERS) menu.
For TRV338/ TRV280: The SteadyShot does not function. The auto focus does not function.
A vertical band appears when recording candlelight or electric light in the dark. A vertical band appears when recording a bright subject. The color of the picture is not correctly displayed. Picture appears too bright on the screen, and the subject does not appear on the screen. The shutter sound is not heard. For TRV338/ TRV280: Black bands appear when you record a TV screen or computer screen.

cSet [DISPLAY] to [LCD] in the The input signal is not NTSC. (p. 66) (OTHERS) menu. (p. 58)
cSet the input selector on the VCR correctly, then check the connection between your camcorder and the VCR. (p. 60) cWhen your camcorder is connected to a DV device that is not a Sony product via an i.LINK cable, select [IR] in step 9 of Step 1: Preparing your camcorder and VCR for operation. (p. 67) cAdjust the synchronization of the VCR. (p. 68) cEnter a correct [IR SETUP] code. (p. 63) cSelect the mode used to cancel recording pause again. (p. 68) cSet your camcorder and the VCR more than 30 cm (12 in.) apart. (p. 68) The program may not be set to a blank section on the tape. You cannot perform the Digital program editing on a VCR that does not support [IR SETUP] codes, a DVD recorder and a DVD recorder equipped with an HDD, etc. cWhile connecting via an i.LINK cable, select [IR] in step 9 of Step 1: Preparing your camcorder and VCR for operation. (p. 67) You cannot perform the Digital program editing on a DVD recorder, a DVD recorder equipped with an HDD, etc. Your VCR and/or video camera recorder is not set correctly. cMake sure the input selector of the VCR is set to LINE. Also, make sure the power switch of the video camera recorder is set to VCR. (p. 62) The [IR SETUP] code or [PAUSE MODE] is not set correctly. c Select the correct [IR SETUP] code and [PAUSE MODE], according to your VCR. Then confirm VCR operation with the [IR TEST] function. (p. 62)
For TRV280: The VCR is not responding properly during Digital program editing when it is connected via an i.LINK cable. For TRV138/338: Easy Dubbing does not function.

Connecting to a computer

For TRV280: The computer does not recognize your camcorder.
cDisconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again firmly. cDisconnect the USB device other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the computer. cDisconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, restart the computer, then connect them again correctly.
For TRV280: cSet the computer display as follows: An error message appears when you Windows: dots or more, High Color (16 bits, colors place the CD-ROM in your computer. or more) Macintosh: 768 dots or more, colors or more For TRV280: You cannot view the pictures the camcorder is seeing on the computer. cDisconnect the cable from the computer, turn on the camcorder, then connect it again. cSlide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA mode, set [USB STREAM] to [ON] in the (SETUP MENU). (p. 55) (Only when connecting to the Windows computer with a USB cable) cDisconnect the cable from the computer, turn on the camcorder, then connect it again. cSlide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode, set [USB STREAM] to [ON] in the (SETUP MENU). (p. 55) (Only when connecting to the Windows computer with a USB cable) cWhen you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer. To copy recordings from a tape, connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable and use the standard software in the OS.

Warning messages

The following messages will appear to prompt you to correct the situation.

Subjects

Battery

Indications

Use the InfoLITHIUM battery pack. Battery level is low. Old battery. Use a new one. Z Re-attach the power source.
Corrective Actions/References
cSee page 96. cCharge the battery. (p. 12) cSee page 96 cSee page 99. cSee page 99. cSee page 18. cThe cassette might be damaged, etc.
Moisture condensation Cassette/tape
% Z Moisture condensation. Eject the cassette % Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H. Q Insert a cassette. Z Reinsert the cassette. Q Z The tape is locked - check the tab. Q The tape has reached the end.
cSee page 95. cSee page 99. cSee page 26 and 36. cSee page 26 and 36.

Others

Cannot record due to copyright protection. Dirty video head. Use a cleaning cassette. Cannot start Easy Handycam Cannot cancel Easy Handycam
Cannot start Easy Handycam with USB connected Invalid button with Easy Handycam operation USB invalid during Easy Handycam cSee page 26 and 36. cPress SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.
Using your camcorder abroad

Power supply

You can use your camcorder in any country/ region using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b].
Simple setting of clock by time difference
You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your camcorder abroad. Select [WORLD TIME] in the (OTHERS) menu, then set the time difference (p. 57).

AC-L15A/L15B

On TV color systems
Your camcorder is an NTSC system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback picture on a TV, it must be an NTSC systembased TV (see following list) with the AUDIO/ VIDEO input jack.

System

Used in
Bahama Islands, Bolivia, Canada, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan, the Philippines, the U.S.A., Venezuela, etc. Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, etc. Brazil Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine, etc.

PAL - M PAL - N SECAM

Usable cassette tapes
You can use standard 8 mm and Hi8 , Digital8 video cassettes on your camcorder.
control signals for copyright protection of software. [Cannot record due to copyright protection.] appears on the LCD screen, or on the TV screen if you try to record such software. Your camcorder does not record copyright control signals on the tape when it records.

system

To prevent accidental erasure Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to set to SAVE.
This Hi8 system is an extension of the standard 8 mm system, and was developed to produce higher quality pictures. You cannot play back a tape recorded in the Hi8 system correctly on video recorders/ players other than a Hi8 video recorder/player.

Digital8

This video system has been developed to enable digital recording to Hi8 /Digital8 video cassette. The recording time when you use your Digital8 system camcorder on Hi8 / standard 8 mm tape is half the recording time when using the conventional Hi8 /standard 8 mm system camcorder. (120 minutes of recording time becomes 60 minutes in the SP mode.)
REC: The cassette can be recorded. SAVE: The cassette cannot be recorded (writeprotected). When labeling the cassette Be sure to place the label only on the locations as shown in the following illustration so as not to cause malfunction of your camcorder.
Do not put a label along the border.
To prevent a blank section from being made on the tape
Press END SEARCH to go to the end of the recorded section before you begin the next recording in the case you have played back the tape. If there is a blank section or discontinuous signals on your tape, re-record from the beginning to the end of the tape as described above.

Labeling position

Copyright signal
When you play back If the cassette you play back on your camcorder contains copyright signals, you cannot copy it to a tape in another video camera connected to your camcorder. For TRV280: When you record You cannot record software on your camcorder that contains copyright
After using the cassette Rewind the tape to the beginning to avoid distortion of the picture or the sound. The cassette should then be put in its case, and stored in an upright position. , trademarks. , , and are
About the InfoLITHIUM battery pack
This unit is compatible with the InfoLITHIUM battery pack (M series). Your camcorder operates only with the InfoLITHIUM battery pack. InfoLITHIUM M series battery packs have the mark.