Berlin, 05 January 2006

Sony announces new miniDV line with something for everyone
Launch of seven new Sony miniDV Handycam models DCR-HC96, DCR HC94, DCR-HC46, DCRHC44, DCRHC35, DCRHC24 and DCR-HC23 Packed with features including 3Megapixel CCD and 16:9 widescreen recording and playback - making these the most easy to use Handycams yet Highly versatile Handycam station provided to ensure your camcorder is always ready Lightweight body designed to be easily gripped makes shooting on the go easy
Sony Europe announces the launch of seven new miniDV camcorder models to provide customers with optimum choice when selecting the right miniDV camcorder for them. In addition to some great features, these new models are more compact and lighter than previous Sony models. DCR-HC96E and DCR-HC94E The most advanced models, the DCR-HC96E and DCRHC94E, use the full width of a 3 Megapixel CCD to capture and play back images in true 16:9 widescreen and wide Recording, allowing you to relive moments as if you were there. Both models feature a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens with a filter diameter of 30mm. The advanced multilayer T* coating within the Carl Zeiss lenses minimizes reflections, reduces flare and increases contrast. This results in brilliantly vivid images, natural colour saturation and precise renditions of subtle tones. These new models for 2006 are easier to use with lighter weights and easy grip shape. DCR-HC46 and DCRHC44 The DCR-HC46E and DCRHC44E models feature a 1 Megapixel CCD for 16:9 recording and playback and the capture of still images. In addition, these models also feature a Sony Memory Stick Duo Slot for the easy transfer and storage of images. A common feature of the DCR-HC46E, DCR-HC44E, is the inclusion of a Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar lens, ensuring excellent quality pictures with true to life, beautiful colours. The DCR-HC94E and DCR-HC96E have a 10x Optical Zoom and the DCR-HC46E and DCR-HC44E a 12x Optical Zoom to ensure the highest quality is maintained during zooming and close focusing. Additionally, these four models are also equipped with a large and bright 2.7 Wide Hybrid LCD Monitor to make framing and viewing an easy and exciting experience so you can feel part of the action. DCRHC35E, DCRHC24E and DCR-HC23E In addition to being equipped with a 2.5 LCD monitor, 800k pixel CCD and 20x Optical Zoom, the DCR-HC35E, DCR-HC24E and DCR-HC23E all feature high quality Sony
Handycam technology featured across all of the seven new models. Each is incredibly easy to use thanks to a large Touch panel on the camcorders LCD screen, allowing you to easily select the filming mode of your choice and even view the remaining battery levels. In addition, Sony has thoughtfully added Start/Stop and Zoom buttons on the frame of the LCD screen itself so that you dont have to take your eye off the action or obstruct the screen to operate these functions. Sony quality across the board for maximum choice All the models feature the STAMINA technology you have come to expect from Sony, meaning you should never miss that special moment. The DCR-HC23E can operate for nine hours* on a single charge and the powerful DCR-HC96E* for around five hours from a single charge of its InfoLITHIUM P Series battery. (* With Optional battery) All models feature Sonys unique Easy Handycam menu, providing one-button access to simplified camera operation and recording settings. It locks out the more advanced features of the menu, giving the user a quick and easy selection of basic settings to choose from. These are displayed on the LCD screen in large, easy to read characters and are ideally suited to the first time movie-maker. The DCR-HC96E, DCR-HC46E and DCR-HC35E all feature a DV-IN function, allowing you to record back to miniDV tape after you edit your footage on PC. Most of the new models, the DCR-HC96E, DCR-HC94E, DCR-HC46E, DCRHC44E and DCRHC35E are supplied with a Handycam station to ensure that your camcorder is always ready to shoot and share simply plug the Handycam in and charge the camcorders InfoLITHIUM battery. Meanwhile, the Handycam station features an i.LINK connection for digital video editing on a PC as well as USB for web streaming purposes. Multi AV (Analogue, S-Video and Audio) is also featured for playing back movies or still images on a TV. To further help you share your memories with friends and family, the DCR-HC44E, DCRHC46E, DCR-HC94E and DCR-HC96E all feature Pictbridge, the standard for printing directly to compatible PictBridge photo printers, such as the Sony DPP-FP50. The new miniDv line from Sony will be available across Europe from February 2006.

Optional accessories Sony provides a wide variety of accessories to maximise the Handycam shooting experience and address the diverse needs of all customers. All potential requirements are covered, from lenses to microphones, from lights to high-power batteries and from tripods to stylish carrying cases. New additions to the camcorder accessory line from Sony in 2006 include: The exciting ECM-HW1 wireless microphone, using bluetooth technology, is designed to add further depth and clarity to your audio recording by being easily attached to your subject by clipping onto the clothes, worn around the arm, around the neck or placed nearby. The microphone communicates with the receiver unit wirelessly at up to 30M distance. This microphone may not be available in some countries due to the wireless technology regulations.
The ACC-FP71 value accessory kit contains three indispensable items to accompany your camcorder, offering a saving of more than 25 per cent on the price of buying them separately. The kit contains the NP-FP71 high capacity battery, the LCS-VAC carrying case and shoulder belt. Sony also offers LCM-HCF, a new Semi Soft Carrying Case for easy storage and carrying of your Handycam this is available for all new miniDV Handycam models. Sony range the SPK-HCB Sports Pack. This is compatible with new Handycam models, and offers waterproofing up to 5metres. The HVL-10NH is a high power 10w light. Compatible with all new Handycam models, it is supplied with an Accessory Shoe Adaptor.

- ENDS -

NOTES FOR EDITORS For further information, please contact: Jean-Baptiste Duprieu, Sony Europe Tel: 817 349/ email: jean-baptiste.duprieu@eu.sony.com Maria Heavey, Sony Europe Tel: / email: maria.heavey@eu.sony.com
In addition, for any queries about Sony in your respective country, please contact your local Sony PR office.
About Sony: Sony manufactures audio, video, communications and information technology products for the global consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, game and online businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be one of the Worlds Leading Consumer Brands. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of EUR 53.43 billion (yen 7,160 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 and it employs approximately 151,400 people worldwide. In Europe, Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of EUR 12.03 billion (yen 1,613 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, based on an average market exchange rate for the same period of yen 134 to the EUR. Sony Europe, headquartered at the Sony Center am Potsdamer Platz in Berlin, is responsible for the company's European electronics business and registered consolidated sales of EUR 8.87 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005. For more information on Sony Europe, please visit http://www.sony-europe.com and

Changing the language setting... 17 Checking the screen indicators (Display guide).. 17
Step 6: Setting the date and time...19 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a Memory Stick Duo..20 Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)...22

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)...24 Recording....26 Playback....27 Functions used for recording/playback, etc..28
Recording To use zoom To use the flash (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) To record in dark places (NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E) To record in dark places (NightShot) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects (BACK LIGHT) To adjust the focus for an off center subject (SPOT FOCUS) To fix the exposure for the selected subject (Flexible spot meter) To record in mirror mode To use a tripod To use a Shoulder belt Playback To play back the images in sequence (SLIDE SHOW) To use PB zoom Recording/playback To check the remaining battery (Battery Info) To turn off the operation confirmation beep (BEEP) To use special effects To initialize the settings (RESET) Other part names and functions
Indicators displayed during recording/playback.. 32 Searching for the starting point.. 35
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH).... 35 Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)... 35 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review).. 35

Remote Commander... 36

Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory). 36 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search). 37
Playing the picture on a TV... 38

Using the Menu

Using the menu items... 40
Menu items.... 42 CAMERA SET menu.. 45
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/ WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)

MEMORY SET menu... 51

Settings for the Memory Stick Duo (BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc.)

PICT.APPLI. menu... 55

Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (SLIDE SHOW/PICT. EFFECT/FRAME REC, etc.)

EDIT/PLAY menu... 60

Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/ END SEARCH, etc.)

STANDARD SET menu... 61

Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/ MULTI-SOUND/LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT, etc.)

TIME/LANGU. menu... 65

(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE)
Customizing Personal Menu... 65

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc.. 67 Recording pictures from a TV or VCR device, etc. (DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E)... 70 Dubbing pictures from a tape to a Memory Stick Duo.. 73 Dubbing sound to a recorded tape.. 74 Deleting recorded pictures from the Memory Stick Duo.. 76 Marking images on the Memory Stick Duo with specific information (Print mark/Image protection).. 77

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer).78 Jacks to connect external devices...80

Using a Computer

Before referring to the First Step Guide on your computer.82 Installing the software and First Step Guide on a computer.85 Viewing First Step Guide...89 Creating a DVD (Direct Access to Click to DVD)..90 Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (DCR-HC96E)..93

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting...95 Warning indicators and messages..113

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad..118 Usable cassette tapes...118 About the Memory Stick...119 About the InfoLITHIUM battery pack..121 About i.LINK....123 Maintenance and precautions..124 Specifications....127 Index....133
E:\SONY\2659814111\01GB02GET_E.fm
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied.
The cassette tape and Memory Stick Duo are not supplied. See page 3, 118, 119, for compatible cassettes and Memory Stick Duo for your camcorder.
USB cable (1) (p. 78, 82)
Lens cap (1) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E) (p. 14, 24, 26)

AC Adaptor (1) (p. 9)

To attach the lens cap Attach the lens cap to the metal fittings of the Grip belt, as illustrated below, using the strap.

Mains lead (1) (p. 9)

Handycam Station (1) (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E) (p. 9)
Rechargeable battery pack (1) (p. 9, 121)
NP-FP30 (DCR-HC36E) NP-FP50 (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)
Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 36) CD-ROM Picture Package Ver.1.5.1 (1) (p. 82) 21-pin adaptor (1) (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E) (p. 39)
For the models with the bottom surfaces only. mark printed on their
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 38, 70, 93)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the InfoLITHIUM battery pack (P series) (p. 121) after attaching it to your camcorder.
1 Align the terminals of the battery
pack and your camcorder (1), then attach the battery pack and click it into place (2).
For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

POWER switch

DC IN jack
Handycam Station To the wall socket

DC plug

2 Slide the POWER switch in the

AC Adaptor

direction of the arrow to OFF (CHG) (The default setting).

Mains lead

For DCR-HC36E:
3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack DC plug

DC IN jack on the Handycam Station for the DCR-HC44E/ HC46E/HC94E/HC96E or on your camcorder for the DCR-HC36E. For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E:

Recording a moving picture or still image on the Memory Stick Duo
1 Set the POWER switch to CAMERAMEMORY. The aspect ratio of the picture switches to 4:3. 2 Press WIDE SELECT to select the desired screen aspect ratio.
WIDE SELECT button POWER switch
If you record movies (MPEG MOVIE EX) in the 16:9 (wide) mode, black bands appear at the top and bottom of the picture when they are played back. For the number of recordable pictures, see page 52. For DCR-HC44E/HC46E: Still images will be fixed to image size [0.7M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [1.0M] ( ). For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: Still images will be fixed to image size [2.3M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [3.0M] ( ).
Selecting the aspect ratio for recording movies on a tape
Be sure to set the POWER switch to CAMERA-TAPE. Press WIDE SELECT repeatedly to select the desired screen aspect ratio.

16:9* 4:3*

* When viewing on the LCD screen. It may be different in the viewfinder. Differences in the angle of view between 4:3 and 16:9 vary depending on the zoom position. If you play back a picture on TV, set [TV TYPE] for playback in the aspect ratio of the TV (p. 39).
E:\SONY\2659814111\01GB03BAS_E.fm
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)
With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy viewing.
DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E: Remove the lens cap (p. 14). DCR-HC36E: DCR-HC36E/ HC44E/HC46E DCR-HC94E/ HC96E

Movies

Still images (4:3)

1 Slide the POWER

switch E to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.
switch E to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp.

2 Press EASY A.

appears on the screen B.
3 Press REC START/STOP F (or

C) to start recording.*1

EASY REC
3 Press PHOTO D to record.*

60min EASY

MENU MENU
The indicator changes [STBY] to [REC].
Flashing t Lit Press and hold lightly Press fully to record. to adjust the focus.
To stop recording, press F again.
When disappears, the image has been recorded.
*1 Movies are recorded in SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette. *2 Still images are recorded in [FINE] quality on a Memory Stick Duo.
Playing back movies/still images
Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the buttons on the screen B as follows.
Touch , then touch to start playback.

Still images

Touch t / to select a picture.
A Stop B Play/Pause toggles C Rewind/Fast forward
A Tape playback B Previous/Next C Delete (p. 76)
x To cancel Easy Handycam operation
Press EASY A again. disappears from the screen.

The NightShot and Super NightShot function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port 1 with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically. Do not use these functions in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects (BACK LIGHT). 6
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, press BACK LIGHT 6 to display. To cancel the back light function, press BACK LIGHT again.
To adjust the focus for an off center subject (SPOT FOCUS). 4
See [SPOT FOCUS] on page 47.
To record in dark places (NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E)... 3
Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch 3 to ON. ( and [NIGHTSHOT PLUS] appear.)
To record an image brighter, use Super NightShot plus function (p. 48). To record an image more faithful to the original colors, use Color Slow Shutter function (p. 49). The NightShot plus and Super NightShot plus function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port 1 with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically. Do not use these functions in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.
To fix the exposure for the selected subject (Flexible spot meter). 4
See [SPOT METER] on page 45.
To record in dark places (NightShot) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E). 8
Set the NIGHTSHOT switch 8 to ON. ( and [NIGHTSHOT] appear.)
To record an image brighter, use Super NightShot function (p. 49). To record an image brighter in color in dim light, use Color Slow Shutter function (p. 49). Continued ,
Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (Continued)
To record in mirror mode. qh
Open the LCD panel qh 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (2).

qd qh 2

A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded.

To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] t.
You can adjust [EXPOSURE] and [FADER] while using the viewfinder by having the LCD panel rotated 180 degrees and closed with the screen facing out (p. 55). The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
WHITE BAL. (White balance)
You can adjust the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment. B AUTO
The white balance is adjusted automatically.
camcorder outdoors from inside the house, or vice versa. Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps. The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

2 Touch [END].

To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] t [END] in step 1.
If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
SHARPNESS (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
You can adjust the sharpness of the image outline with /. appears when the sharpness is anything other than the default setting.

Soften Sharpen

You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus on a certain subject intentionally.

AUTO SHUTTER

Automatically activates the electronic shutter to adjust the shutter speed when recording in bright conditions if you set it to [ON] (the default setting).
1 Touch [MANUAL]. 9 appears. 2 Touch (focusing on close subjects)/ (focusing on distant subjects) to sharpen the focus. appears when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and appears when the focus cannot be adjusted farther away. 3 Touch.
AE SHIFT (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
You can adjust the exposure using (dark)/ (bright). and the setting value appear when [AE SHIFT] is set.
Touch if the subject is white or the backlight is bright, or touch if the subject is black or the light is dim. You can adjust the automatic exposure level to brighter or darker when [EXPOSURE] is set to [AUTO].
To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] t in step 1.
It is easier to focus on the subject by moving the power zoom lever towards T (Telephoto) to adjust the focus, then towards W (Wide angle) to adjust the zoom for recording. When you want to record a subject at close range, move the power zoom lever to W (Wide angle), then adjust the focus. 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 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto. The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

SPOT FOCUS

You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located in the center of the screen.
1 Touch the subject on the screen. 9 appears.

TELE MACRO

This is useful to shoot small subjects, such as flowers or insects. You can blur out backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer. When you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON] ( ), the zoom (p. 28) moves to the top of the T (Telephoto) side automatically and allows for recording subjects at a close distance as follows: For DCR-HC36E: down to about 39 cm (15 3/8 in.). For DCR-HC44E/HC46E: down to about 35 cm (13 7/8 in.). For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: down to about 37 cm (14 5/8 in.).
x REDEYE REDUC You can prevent redeye by activating the flash before recording. Set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then press (flash) (p. 28) repeatedly to select a setting.
(Auto redeye reduction): Pre-flashes to reduce redeye before the flash automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light. r (Forced redeye reduction): Always uses the flash and the redeye reducing pre-flash. r (No flash): Records without flash. The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other conditions.
To cancel, touch [OFF], or zoom to wideangle (W side).
When recording a distant subject, focusing may be difficult and can take some time. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.
SUPER NSPLUS (Super NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E)
The picture will be recorded at a maximum of 16 times the sensitivity of NightShot plus recording if you set [SUPER NSPLUS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch (p. 29) is also set to ON. and [SUPER NIGHTSHOT PLUS] appear on the screen. To cancel the setting, set [SUPER NSPLUS] to [OFF] or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.
Do not use NightShot plus/[SUPER NSPLUS] in bright places. This may cause a malfunction. Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 29). Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically. The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down in this case.
FLASH SET (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
You can set this function when you use the built-in flash or an external flash (optional) that is compatible with your camcorder. x FLASH LEVEL HIGH( )
Makes the flash level higher.

B NORMAL( ) LOW( )

Makes the flash level lower.
SUPER NS (Super NightShot) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

Portions of the screen where brightness is about 100 IRE or above may appear overexposed. The zebra pattern is diagonal stripes that appear in portions of the screen where brightness is at a preset level.
When you set [SELF-TIMER] to [ON] ( ), the self-timer starts recording in about 10 seconds after pressing REC START/ STOP to record the movie, or PHOTO to record still images. To cancel the count down, touch [RESET].
To cancel [SELF-TIMER], touch [OFF].
You can also set the self-timer with the REC START/STOP button or PHOTO button of the Remote Commander (p. 36).
Up to 12 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 800 zoom is performed digitally.

DIGITAL ZOOM

You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 20 (DCR-HC36E)/12 (DCRHC44E/HC46E)/10 (DCR-HC94E/ HC96E) (the default setting) while recording on a tape. Note that the image quality decreases when you are using the digital zoom.
Up to 10 zoom is performed optically.
Up to 10 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 20 zoom is performed digitally.
Up to 10 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 120 zoom is performed digitally.

WIDE SELECT (DCR-HC36E)

The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming factor. The zooming zone appears when you select the zooming level.
You can record a picture in a ratio suitable for the screen on which it will be displayed. Refer also to the operating instructions supplied with your TV for details. B 4:3
Standard setting (to record pictures to be played back on a 4:3 TV).

For DCR-HC36E: B OFF

Up to 20 zoom is performed optically.

16:9 WIDE (

Up to 20 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 40 zoom is performed digitally.
Records pictures to be played back on a 16:9 wide TV in full screen mode.
When viewed on the LCD screen/ viewfinder with [16:9 WIDE] selected.
When viewed on a 16:9 wide screen TV*1
Up to 20 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 800 zoom is performed digitally.
For DCR-HC44E/HC46E: B OFF
Up to 12 zoom is performed optically. When viewed on a standard TV*2
Up to 12 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 24 zoom is performed digitally.

*1 DCR-HC94E/HC96E *2 DCR-HC44E/HC46E *3 If you record a still image on a Memory Stick Duo with the POWER switch set to CAMERA-TAPE, [IMAGE SIZE] is automatically fixed at [0.2M]. You cannot select [0.2M] for the image size in [STILL SET]. All numbers measured at the following setting: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality. Continued ,

MOVIE SET

x IMAGE SIZE ) )
Records movies in high resolution.
The folder will not be deleted even when you delete all the pictures in the folder. Do not do any of the following while [ Erasing all data.] is displayed: Operate the POWER switch/operation buttons. Eject the Memory Stick Duo.
Allows for more movie recording time.

FORMAT

The Memory Stick Duo has been formatted at the factory, and does not require formatting. To execute formatting, touch [YES] twice t. Formatting is completed, and all the images will be deleted.
Do not do any of the following while [ Formatting] is displayed: Operate the POWER switch/operation buttons. Eject the Memory Stick Duo. Formatting erases everything on the Memory Stick Duo including protected image data and newly created folders.
Capacity of the Memory Stick Duo (MB) and the recordable time (hour: minute: second)

160 112

00:02:40 00:05:20 00:10:40 00:21:20 00:42:40 01:25:20 02:50:40 05:41:20
00:10:40 00:21:20 00:42:40 01:25:20 02:50:40 05:41:20 11:22:40 22:45:20
When using the Memory Stick Duo made by Sony Corporation. The recordable time varies depending on the recording environment.

FILE NO.

B SERIES
Assigns file numbers in sequence even if the Memory Stick Duo is replaced with another one. The file number is reset when a new folder is created or the recording folder is replaced with another.

ALL ERASE

Deletes all the pictures on a Memory Stick Duo without image protection, or in the selected folder.
1 Select [ALL FILES] or [CURRENT FOLDER]. [ALL FILES]: Deletes all the images on the Memory Stick Duo. [CURRENT FOLDER]: Deletes all the images in the selected folder. 2 Touch [YES] twice t.

Normal setting (standard type of display)
x LCD BL LEVEL You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screens backlight. B NORMAL

SQUEZE (Squeeze)

Expands the picture vertically if black bands at the top and bottom in 16:9 aspect ratio are undesirable.
Brightens the LCD screen.
x VF WIDE DISP (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E) You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio picture appears in the viewfinder. B LETTER BOX

A/V t DV OUT (DCR-HC96E)

When you set [A/V t DV OUT] ( ) to [ON], you can convert analog signals to digital by connecting a digital device and an analog device to your camcorder. See page 93 for details.
GUIDEFRAME (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
You can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical by setting [GUIDEFRAME] to [ON]. The frame is not recorded. Press DISP/BATT INFO to make the frame disappear.
Pointing the subject at the cross point of the guide frame makes a balanced composition.

VIDEO INPUT (DCR-HC96E)

Selects the video plug to connect when you input the picture from the other device via A/V connecting cable. B VIDEO
Connects via video plug of the A/V connecting cable.

DATA CODE

During playback, displays information (data code) recorded automatically at the time of recording. Using the Menu B OFF
Data code is not displayed.

S VIDEO

Connects via S VIDEO plug of the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO cable.

DATE/TIME

Displays the date and time.
TV TYPE (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E)

See page 39.

CAMERA DATA (below)
Displays camera setting data.

60min 0:00:00:00

USB CAMERA
When you set [ STREAM] and connect your camcorder to your computer via the USB cable, you can view the picture your camcorder is currently seeing on your computer like a live camera. You can also import the picture to your computer. Refer to the First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM for details (p. 89).

100 AWB F1. 8 9dB

A SteadyShot off B Exposure C White balance D Gain E Shutter speed F Aperture value
Camera setting data does not appear when movies on a Memory Stick Duo are played back. The exposure adjustment value (0EV), a shutter speed, and the aperture value appear when still images on a Memory Stick Duo are played back. In the [DATE/TIME] data display, the date and time are displayed in the same area. If you record a picture without setting the clock, [-- -- ---] and [--:--:--] will appear. Continued ,

See page 17.

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC94E/HC96E
1.Open the shoe cover. 2 - 6.Open the jack cover.
B For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: LANC jack (blue)
The LANC control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video devices and peripherals connected to it.
C For DCR-HC96E: A/V (audio/video) jack (p. 38, 67, 93) For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E: A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p. 38, 67)
For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks.

(USB) jack (p. 82)

E For DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E: DV Interface (i.LINK) (p. 67, 90) For DCR-HC44E/HC94E: DV OUT Interface (i.LINK) (p. 67, 90) F DC IN jack (p. 9) G Interface connector
E:\SONY\2659814111\01GB06COM_E.fm
Before referring to the First Step Guide on your computer
When you install the Picture Package software on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer.
Software and features available for Macintosh computers differ from those available for Windows computers. For details, refer to chapter 6 of First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM. For First Step Guide, see page 85. There are 2 ways to connect your camcorder to a computer. USB cable This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape to the computer, copying files from a Memory Stick Duo to a computer, and copying files to a Memory Stick Duo. Software is not required to copy files from a Memory Stick Duo to a computer. (You can connect your camcorder using the standard driver of the computer.) i.LINK cable This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape. Image data is transferred in more clarity than with a USB cable.
Viewing video and pictures on PC
You can view the video and still images copied from your camcorder by selecting from thumbnails. Video and still images are saved in folders by date.
Music Video/Slideshow Producer
You can select your favorite video and still images from video and still images saved on your computer and easily create an original short video or original slide show with added music and visual styles.
Automatic Music Video Producer

8 Select where to save the
software, then click [Next].
11Click [Next], then follow the onscreen instructions to install ImageMixer VCD2.
12If the [Installing Microsoft(R)
DirectX(R)] screen is displayed, follow the steps below to install DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step 13.
1 Read the License Agreement, then click [Next].
13Make sure [Yes, I want to restart
my computer now.] is checked, then click [Finish].

2 Click [Next].

The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The short-cut icons for [Picture Package Menu] and [Picture Package destination folder] (and First Step Guide, if installed in step 10) appear on the desktop.

3 Click [Finish].

14Remove the CD-ROM from the
disc drive of your computer.
For details on connecting your camcorder and computer, see First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 89). If you have any questions about Picture Package, contact information is listed on page 89.
Installing on a Macintosh computer
9 When the user acceptance screen
is displayed, enter your name and password. The installation of ImageMixer VCD2 starts.
For details on connecting your camcorder and computer, see First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 89). For details on how to use ImageMixer VCD2, refer to softwares on-line help.

drive of your computer.

4 Double-click CD-ROM icon. 5 Copy FirstStepGuide.pdf,
stored in the desired language in the [FirstStepGuide] folder, to your computer.
6 Copy [IMXINST.SIT] in the [MAC]
folder of the CD-ROM to a folder of your choice.
7 Double-click [IMXINST.SIT] in the

folder it was copied to.

8 Double-click the unzipped
[ImageMixerVCD2_Install].

Viewing First Step Guide

Displaying First Step Guide
Starting up on a Windows computer
Viewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer Ver.6.0 or later is recommended. Double-click the icon on the desktop.
For inquires about this software
Pixela User Support Center
Pixela Home Page Picture Package: http://www.ppackage.com/ ImageMixer VCD2: http://www.ImageMixer.com/ North America (Los Angeles) Telephone: (Toll-Free) +1-800-458-4029 +1-213-341-0163 Europe (U.K.) Telephone: (Toll-Free) UK, Germany, France and Spain: +800-1532-4865 Other countries: +44-1489-564-764 Asia (Philippines) Telephone: +63-2-438-0090

New sound added to a recorded tape is not heard.
Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST1] (original sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 76).
Pictures from connected devices are not displayed correctly.
The input signal is not PAL (p. 118).
Still pictures cannot be dubbed from a tape to a Memory Stick Duo.
You cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded if the tape has been used repeatedly for recording.
Movies cannot be dubbed from a tape to a Memory Stick Duo.
You cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded in the following situations: The tape has a blank section. The tape has been used repeatedly for recording. The input signal has been interrupted or cut.
You cannot input pictures using the A/V connecting cable (DCR-HC96E).
You cannot input pictures while [DISP OUTPUT] is set to [V-OUT/PANEL] (p. 64). You cannot input pictures if you press the DISP/BATT INFO button.
The picture gets disturbed or dark, or the sounds get distorted (DCR-HC44E/ HC46E/HC94E/HC96E).
A/V connecting cables are connected to both your camcorder and the Handycam Station. Disconnect one of the A/V connecting cables.

Connecting to a computer

The computer does not recognize your camcorder.
Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again securely. Disconnect USB devices other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the (USB) jack on the computer. Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, restart the computer, then connect them again correctly. For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Insert you camcorder into the Handycam Station correctly (p. 10).
An error message appears when you place the supplied CD-ROM in your computer.
Set the computer display as follows: Windows: dots or more, High Color (16 bits, 65,000 colors or more) Macintosh: 1,dots or more, 32,000 colors or more
You cannot view the pictures the camcorder is seeing on the computer.
Disconnect the cable from the computer, turn on the camcorder, then connect it again. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp on your camcorder, and set [USB CAMERA] to [ STREAM] (p. 63). (Only when connected to the Windows computer with the USB cable)
You cannot view the video recorded on a tape on the computer.
Disconnect the cable from the computer, then connect it again. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp on your camcorder and set [USB SELECT] to [ STREAM] (p. 59). (Only when connected to the Windows computer with the USB cable)

The movie is not smooth during USB Streaming.
Change the settings as described in the following procedures: 1 Select [Start] t [Programs] ([All Programs] for Windows XP) t [Picture Package] t [Handycam Tools] t [USB Streaming Tool]. 2 Adjust the slider in the (-) direction on [Select video quality]. 3 Follow the on-screen instructions, click [Next], then click [Done].
Picture Package does not function correctly.
Close Picture Package, then restart the computer.
An error message appears while operating Picture Package.
Close Picture Package first, then slide the POWER switch on your camcorder to turn on another lamp.
The CD-R drive is not recognized or data cannot be written on the CD-R in Picture Package Auto Video, Producer, CD Backup, or VCD Maker.
For compatible drives, visit the following URL: http://www.ppackage.com/
[USB streaming. This function is not available.] appears on the screen of your camcorder.
Start recording or playing back pictures recorded on a Memory Stick Duo after USB Streaming is finished.
First Step Guide is not displayed correctly.
Follow the procedure below and refer to First Step Guide (FirstStepGuide.pdf). 1 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer. 2 Double-click [My Computer]. 3 Right-click [PICTUREPACKAGE] (Disc drive)*. * Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer. 4 Click [Explorer]. 5 Double-click [FirstStepGuide]. 6 Double-click the desired language folder. 7 Double-click FirstStepGuide.pdf.
E:\SONY\2659814111\01GB08TBS2_E.fm
Warning indicators and messages
Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, check the following. Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:(or E:) ss:ss (Self-diagnosis display) C:04:ss
The battery pack is not an InfoLITHIUM battery pack. Use an InfoLITHIUM battery pack (p. 121). Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack of your camcorder securely (p. 9).