Black point White, red, blue or green point
About the Carl Zeiss lens
Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens. MTF= Modulation Transfer Function. The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens. For DCR-HC96: The lens for your camcorder is T -coated to suppress unwanted reflections and faithfully reproduce colors.
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 pictures of the sun only in low light conditions, such as at dusk.

On recording

Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture 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, storage media, etc. TV color systems differ depending on the countries/regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.
E:\SONY\2659813111\01US00BOOKTOC.fm

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS... 3 Read this first...5
Step 1: Checking supplied items..12 Step 2: Charging the battery pack...13 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly..18 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder.20 Step 5: Using the touch panel...21
Changing the language setting... 21 Checking the screen indicators (Display guide).. 21
Step 6: Setting the date and time...23 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a Memory Stick Duo..24 Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC46/HC96)...26

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)...28 Recording....30 Playback....31 Functions used for recording/playback, etc..32
Recording To use zoom To use the flash (DCR-HC96) To record in dark places (NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36/HC46) To record in dark places (NightShot) (DCR-HC96) 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)

The indicators vary depending on the settings.
Step 5: Using the touch panel (Continued)
3 Touch the area including the
indicator that you want to check.
DISP GUIDE END FOCUS: MANUAL PROGRAM AE: SPOTLIGHT STEADYSHOT: OFF
The meanings of the indicators in the area are listed on the screen. If you cannot find the indicator you want to check, touch / to toggle. When you touch , the screen returns to the area selecting display.

To finish the operation

Touch [END].
Step 6: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.
If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 131).
3 Select [CLOCK SET] with

then touch

CLOCK SET

DA TE 2006 Y JAN M

12: 00 AM

4 Set [Y] (year) with

touch.

, then

You can set any year up to the year 2079.

CLOCK SET ::

DA TE 2006 Y

12: 00

Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for the first time.
5 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour
and minute, then touch. For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM. For midday, set it to 12:00 PM. The clock starts.

t [MENU].

CAMERA SET
PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE

2 Select

with /
(TIME/LANGU.) menu , then touch.

DISP OUTPUT

The date and time are not displayed while recording, but they are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback (see page 67 for [DATA CODE] (During Easy Handycam operation, you can set only [DATE/TIME])).

MENU ROTATE

A. SHUT OFF

LANGUAGE

PROGRAM
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a Memory Stick Duo

Cassette tape

You can use mini DV (p. 123). cassettes only
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press.
Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly. Window
The recordable time varies depending on [ REC MODE] (p. 65).

1 Slide and hold the

OPEN/ EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

OPEN/EJECT lever

Cassette compartment
The cassette compartment automatically slides back in.
Do not force the cassette compartment closed by pressing the portion marked {DO NOT PUSH} while it is sliding in. It may cause a malfunction.

You can search for the start point to start the next recording while viewing the pictures on the screen. The sound is not played back during the search.
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)
[END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape. Touch t
60min END SEARCH EXECUTING

STBY 0:00:00

. Recording/Playback

1 0:00:00

CANCEL

2 Touch and hold

Touch here to cancel the operation.
The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished.
(to go backward)/ (to go forward) and release it at the point where you want the recording to start.
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)
You can view about 2 seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped the tape. Touch t
[END SEARCH] will not work correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape. You can also select [END SEARCH] from the menu. When the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights up, select the [END SEARCH] short-cut in Personal Menu (p. 44).
The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby.

Remote Commander

Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander.

Insulation sheet

*2 Not available during Easy Handycam operation. Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. 35). To change the battery, see page 131.
Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)

1 q; 4

1 During playback, press ZERO
SET MEMORY 5 at a point you want to locate later on. The tape counter is reset to 0:00:00 and appears on the screen.

60min 0:00:00

A PHOTO*1 (p. 30)
The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded onto the Memory Stick Duo as a still image.
If the tape counter is not displayed, press DISPLAY 9.
B SEARCH M. (p. 41)*2 C. >*2 D Video control buttons (Rewind, Playback, Fast-forward, Pause, Stop, Slow) (p. 31) E ZERO SET MEMORY*2 F Transmitter G REC START/STOP (p. 28, 30) H Power zoom (p. 32, 34) I DISPLAY (p. 21) J Memory control buttons (Index*2, /+, Memory playback) (p. 31)
*1 Not available during Easy Handycam operation with the POWER switch is set to CAMERATAPE.
2 Press STOP 4 when you want to

stop playback.

3 Press mREW 4.
The tape stops automatically when the tape counter reaches 0:00:00. The tape counter returns to the time code display, and the zero set memory display disappears.

PROGRES.REC (DCR-HC96)

You can reduce image blur when recording moving pictures on tapes, intended for import to your computer as still images, by setting [PROGRES.REC] to [ON] ( ). This is especially useful for analyzing highspeed action, such as sports scenes. To cancel [PROGRES.REC], touch [OFF]. Note on the progressive recording mode In a normal TV broadcast, the screen is divided into 2 finer fields and these are displayed in turn, every 1/60 of a second. Thus, the actual picture displayed in an instant covers only half of the apparent picture area. In progressive recording, the picture is fully displayed with all the pixels. A picture recorded in this mode appears clearer, but a moving subject may appear awkward.
When recording under fluorescent light or a light bulb, the screen may flicker. Touch [OFF] to return to the normal recording.

STILL SET

x BURST (DCR-HC46/HC96) You can record several still images one after another by pressing PHOTO. B OFF
Select this when not recording continuously.

NORMAL (

Records still images continuously at about 0.5 seconds intervals. The maximum number of images are recorded when you press and hold PHOTO fully.

In 4:3 aspect ratio

3.0M 1.9M 1.0M VGA

DCRHC46 DCRHC96

In 16:9 aspect ratio

2.3M 0.7M

DCR-HC46 DCR-HC96

HIGH SPEED (

) (DCR-HC96)
Record up to 32 images (VGA image sizes) continuously at about 0.07 second intervals.

EXP. BRKTG (

Records 3 images consecutively with different exposures at about 0.5 second intervals. You can compare the 3 images and select an image recorded at the best exposure.
MEMORY SET menu (Continued)
[BURST] can be set only when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY. [BURST] cannot be set during Easy Handycam operation. The maximum number of images will be recorded in the self-timer mode or when you are operating with the Remote Commander. [EXP. BRKTG] will not function when there is space of less than 3 images remaining on the Memory Stick Duo. For DCR-HC96: The flash will not function during [BURST]. For DCR-HC96: The images may flicker or discolor when you select [HIGH SPEED].
If you set a screen ratio of 16:9 (wide), [IMAGE SIZE] is fixed to [0.7M] (DCR-HC46)/[2.3M] (DCR-HC96) automatically (p. 26). [IMAGE SIZE] can be set only when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY.

FLD/FRAME (DCR-HC36)

To record moving subjects correcting jitter (p. 30).

B FIELD

FRAME (
To record stationary subjects in high quality.

QUALITY )

Records still images at the fine image quality level.

B FINE (

Capacity of the Memory Stick Duo (MB) and the number of recordable pictures
3.0M*1 (2016 1512) 1.9M*1 (1600 1200) 1.0M*2 (1152 864) VGA (640 480)

STANDARD (

*1 Available during recording on a tape only. *2 DCR-HC96

3 Touch. appears.

To cancel [D. EFFECT], touch [OFF] in step 1. B OFF
Does not use [D. EFFECT] setting.

OLD MOVIE

Adds an old movie effect with a sepia hue to pictures.
You cannot record playback pictures edited using special effects on the tape in your camcorder. You can save pictures edited using special effects on a Memory Stick Duo (p. 77) or record them on another VCR/DVD device, etc. (p. 71). You cannot output playback pictures edited with digital effects via the DV Interface (i.LINK). You cannot add effects to externally input pictures. For DCR-HC46/HC96: You cannot select 16:9/4:3 as the aspect ratio for [OLD MOVIE]. For DCR-HC96: You cannot change to another digital effect while recording pictures on a tape with [CINEMA EFECT] selected. For DCR-HC96: The digital effect function is suspended while using zoom with [DELAY MOTION] selected. For DCR-HC96: It is recommended that you mount your camcorder on a tripod (optional) when you select [DELAY MOTION].
CINEMA EFECT (Cinematic effect) (DCR-HC96)
You can add a cinematic atmosphere to pictures by adjusting to a 16:9 screen and progressive picture.
DELAY MOTION (Delay motion) (DCR-HC96)
You can record a movie with a repeat effect.
Records a movie while superimposing it on a previously memorized still image.

FLASH (flash motion)

Records a movie with a serial-still-image effect (strobe effect).
PICT. EFFECT (Picture effect)
You can add special effects to a picture during recording or playback. appears. B OFF
Does not use [PICT. EFFECT] setting.
FRAME REC (Frame recording) (DCR-HC96)
You can record pictures with a stop-motion animated effect by alternately frame recording and then moving the subject a little. After steadying your camcorder, use the Remote Commander to prevent camera shake.
1 Touch [ON] ( ) t t. 2 Press REC START/STOP. A picture (approximately 6 frames) is recorded, and your camcorder enters the standby mode. 3 Move the subject and repeat step 2.

NEG.ART

The color and brightness are reversed.
Pictures appear in sepia.

B&W

Pictures appear in black and white.
To cancel [FRAME REC], touch [OFF] in step 1.
The remaining tape time will not be indicated correctly. The last scene will be longer than other scenes.

SOLARIZE

Pictures appear as an illustration with strong contrast.

PASTEL*

SMTH INT.REC (Smooth interval tape recording) (DCR-HC46/HC96)
Your camcorder will shoot 1 frame of the picture at a selected interval and keep them in memory until it has stored several frames. This function is useful to observe the movement of clouds or the changes of daylight. These pictures appear smooth when played back. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation.

x WIDE DISPLAY (DCR-HC36) You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio picture appears in the viewfinder and the LCD screen by setting [WIDE SELECT] to [16:9 WIDE]. The recorded picture will not be affected by this operation. B LETTER BOX
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-HC46/HC96) You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio picture appears in the viewfinder. B LETTER BOX

A/V t DV OUT (DCR-HC96)

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 97 for details.

GUIDEFRAME (DCR-HC96)

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-HC96)

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. 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-HC46/HC96)

See page 43.

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. 93).

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.

See page 21.

During Easy Handycam operation, you can set [DATE/TIME] only. For DCR-HC96: appears for a picture recorded using a flash.

B LCD PANEL

Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder.

REMAINING

B AUTO
Displays the remaining tape indicator for about 8 seconds in situations such as those described below.
When you set the POWER switch to PLAY/ EDIT or CAMERA-TAPE with a cassette inserted. When you touch (Play/Pause).

V-OUT/PANEL

Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfinder.

B NORMAL

Scrolls the menu items downwards by touching.
Always displays the remaining tape indicator.

OPPOSITE

Scrolls the menu items upwards by touching.
REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)
The default setting is [ON], allowing you to use the supplied Remote Commander (p. 40).
Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another VCR remote control unit.
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)

B 5 min

The camcorder is automatically turned off when you do not operate your camcorder for more than approximately 5 minutes.
The camcorder is not automatically turned off.
When you connect your camcorder to a wall outlet, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to [NEVER].
REC LAMP (Recording lamp) (DCR-HC96)
The camera recording lamp will not light up during recording when you set this to [OFF] (The default setting is [ON]) (p. 35).

CALIBRATION

See page 130.
A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel.

Cancels the melody.

TIME/LANGU. menu
(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE) See page 44 for details on selecting menu items.
Customizing Personal Menu
You can add desired menu items to any Personal Menu allocated to the lamp positions currently lit. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu.

See page 23.

Adding a menu item
You can add up to 28 menu items to each Personal Menu. Delete a less important menu item, if you want to add more.

WORLD TIME

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. 93). If you have any questions about Picture Package, contact information is listed on page 93.
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. 93). 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
You can also start up [First Step Guide] by selecting [Start], [Programs] ([All Programs] for Windows XP), [Picture Package] and [First Step Guide].
To view First Step Guide in HTML without using automatic installation, copy the desired language folder from the [FirstStepGuide] folder on the CD-ROM, and then double-click index.html. Refer to FirstStepGuide.pdf located in your desired language folder in the following cases: When printing First Step Guide When First Step Guide is not displayed correctly due to the browser setting even in recommended environment. When the HTML version of First Step Guide is not installed automatically.

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-HC46/HC96: Insert you camcorder into the Handycam Station correctly (p. 14).
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. 67). (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. 63). (Only when connected to the Windows computer with the USB cable)
You cannot view the video recorded on a tape on a Macintosh computer.
When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using the 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.
You cannot view the video and still images recorded on a Memory Stick Duo on the computer.
Insert a Memory Stick Duo in the correct direction, then push it all the way in. You cannot use an i.LINK cable. Connect the camcorder and the computer using the USB cable. Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp on your camcorder and set [USB SELECT] to [ Memory Stick] (p. 63). The computer does not recognize the Memory Stick Duo during camcorder operations such as tape playback or editing. Finish any camcorder operations and then connect the camcorder to the computer again.

(Warning indicator pertaining to the flash) (DCR-HC96) Slow flashing:

Still charging

The self-diagnosis display code is displayed (p. 117).* There is something wrong with the flash.

x Moisture condensation

%Z Moisture condensation. Eject the cassette (p. 129) % Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H. (p. 129)
This Memory Stick is not formatted correctly.
Check the format, then format the Memory Stick Duo as necessary (p. 58, 124).
Cannot record. The Memory Stick is full.
Delete unnecessary images (p. 80).

x Cassette/Tape

Q Insert a cassette. (p. 24) Z Reinsert the cassette. (p. 24)
Check if the cassette is damaged.
- The Memory Stick is locked. Check the tab. (p. 124) Cannot playback. Reinsert the Memory Stick. (p. 25) Cannot record. Reinsert the Memory Stick. (p. 25) No file.
No file is recorded or there is no readable file on the Memory Stick Duo.
QZ The tape is locked - check the tab. (p. 123) Q The tape has reached the end. (p. 24, 31)
Rewind or change the tape.

x Memory Stick Duo

Insert a Memory Stick. (p. 25) Reinsert the Memory Stick. (p. 25, 124)
Reinsert the Memory Stick Duo a few times. If even then the indicator flashes, the Memory Stick Duo might be damaged. Try with another Memory Stick Duo.
USB streaming. This function is not available.
You tried to play back or record on a Memory Stick Duo during USB Streaming.
Memory Stick folders are full.
You cannot create folders exceeding 999MSDCF. You cannot delete created folders using your camcorder. You will have to format the Memory Stick Duo (p. 58), or delete them using your computer.
This is a read-only Memory Stick.
Insert a writable Memory Stick Duo.
Incompatible type of Memory Stick.
A type of Memory Stick Duo incompatible with your camcorder is inserted (p. 124).
Cannot record still images on Memory Stick. (p. 124) Cannot record movies on Memory Stick. (p. 124)
x PictBridge compliant printer
Check the connected device.
Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it.
Cannot add audio. Disconnect the i.LINK cable. (p. 78) Not recorded in SP mode. Cannot add audio. (p. 78) Not recorded in 12-bit audio. Cannot add audio. (p. 78) Cannot add audio on the blank portion of a tape. (p. 78) Cannot add audio. (p. 78)
You cannot add sound to a tape recorded on other devices by 4CH MIC REC.
Connect the camcorder to a PictBridge compatible printer.

Error. Cancel the task.

Check the printer.

Memory Stick (without MagicGate) Memory Stick Duo (without MagicGate)*1 MagicGate Memory Stick Memory Stick Duo (with MagicGate)*1 MagicGate Memory Stick Duo *1 Memory Stick PRO Memory Stick PRO Duo *1

a a*2*3 a*3 a*2*3

On a Memory Stick Duo with a write-protect tab
You can prevent accidental erasure of images when you slide the write-protect tab on the Memory Stick Duo with a small tapered object, to the write-protect position.
Damaged or lost image data will not be compensated for, and may occur in the following cases:
If you eject the Memory Stick Duo, turn the power off on your camcorder, or remove the battery pack for replacement while your camcorder is reading or writing image files on the Memory Stick Duo (while the access lamp is lit or flashing). If you use the Memory Stick Duo near magnets or magnetic fields.
*1 A Memory Stick Duo is about half the size of a standard Memory Stick. *2 The types of Memory Stick that support high speed data transfer. The speed of data transfer varies depending on the device to be used. *3 MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that records and transfers the contents in an encrypted format. Note that data that uses MagicGate technology cannot be recorded or played on your camcorder. Still image format: Your camcorder compresses and records image data in the JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format. The file extension is.JPG. Movie format: Your camcorder compresses and records picture data in the MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) format. The file extension is.MPG. File names of still images: 101- 0001: This file name appears on the screen of your camcorder. DSC00001.JPG: This file name appears on the display of a computer.
It is recommended you make a back-up of important data on the hard disk of a computer. x On handling a Memory Stick Keep the following in mind when handling a Memory Stick Duo.
Be careful not to apply excessive force when writing on a memo area on a Memory Stick Duo. Do not attach a label or the like on a Memory Stick Duo or a Memory Stick Duo adaptor. When you carry or store a Memory Stick Duo, put it in its case. Do not touch, or allow metallic objects to come into contact with the terminals. Do not bend, drop or apply strong force to the Memory Stick Duo.
Do not disassemble or modify the Memory Stick Duo. Do not let the Memory Stick Duo get wet. Be careful to keep Memory Stick Duo media out of the reach of small children. There is danger that a child might swallow it. Do not insert anything other than a Memory Stick Duo into the Memory Stick Duo slot. Doing so may cause a malfunction.

x When not using your camcorder for a long time
Periodically turn on the camcorder and play a cassette for about 3 minutes. Use up the battery pack completely before storing it.

Moisture condensation

If your camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense inside your camcorder, on the surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this state, the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or your camcorder may not operate correctly. If there is moisture inside your camcorder, [%Z Moisture condensation. Eject the cassette] or [% Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H.] appears. The indicator will not appear when the moisture condenses on the lens. x If moisture condensation has occurred None of the functions except cassette ejection will work. Eject the cassette, turn off your camcorder, and leave it for about one hour with the cassette lid open. Your camcorder can be used again when both of the following conditions are met:
The warning message does not appear when the power is turned on. Neither % or Z flash when a cassette is inserted and video operation buttons are touched.
x How to avoid moisture condensation When you bring your camcorder from a cold place into a warm place, put your camcorder in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Remove the bag when the air temperature inside the plastic bag has reached the surrounding temperature (after about one hour).

Video head

If the video heads are dirty, video or sound distortion may be apparent. If the following problem occurs, clean the video heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM12CLD cleaning cassette (optional). Mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture or the screen is displayed in blue.
If moisture starts to condense, your camcorder sometimes cannot detect condensation. If this happens, the cassette is sometimes not ejected for 10 seconds after the cassette lid is opened. This is not a
Playback pictures do not move. Playback pictures do not appear or the sound breaks off. [x Dirty video head. Use a cleaning cassette.] appears on the screen during recording/playback.
Maintenance and precautions (Continued)
The video heads will wear after long use. If you cannot obtain a clear image even after using a cleaning cassette (optional), it might be because the video heads are worn. Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to have the video heads replaced.

Handycam Station Input/Output connectors DCRA-C151 (DCR-HC46)
Audio/Video output 10-pin connector Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at load impedance 47 k (kilohms)), Output impedance with less than 2.2 k (kilohms) USB jack mini-B DV input/output i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin connector S100)

DCRA-C152 (DCR-HC96)

Audio/Video input/output 10-pin connector Input/output auto switch Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at load impedance 47 k (kilohms)), Input impedance more than 47 k (kilohms), Output impedance with less than 2.2 k (kilohms) USB jack mini-B DV input/output i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin connector S100)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FP30 (DCR-HC36)
Maximum output voltage DC 8.4 V Output voltage DC 7.2 V Capacity 3.6 Wh (500 mAh) Dimensions (approx.) 31.8 18.5 45.0 mm (1 5/16 3/13/16 in) (w/h/d) Mass (approx.) 40 g (1.5 oz) Operating temperature 0 C to 40 C (32 F to 104 F) Type Lithium ion

NP-FP50 (DCR-HC46/HC96)

Maximum output voltage DC 8.4 V Output voltage DC 7.2 V Capacity 4.9 Wh (680 mAh) Dimensions (approx.) 31.8 18.5 45.0 mm (1 5/16 3/13/16 in.) (w/h/d) Mass (approx.) 45 g (1.6 oz) Operating temperature 0 C to 40 C (32 F to 104 F) Type Lithium ion
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B

Power requirements AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 - 0.18 A Power consumption 18 W Output voltage DC 8.4 V* Operating temperature 0 C to 40 C (32 F to 104 F) Storage temperature -20 C to + 60 C (-4 F to + 140 F) Dimensions (approx.) 100 mm (2 1/1/in.) (w/h/d) excluding the projecting parts Mass (approx.) 190 g (6.7 oz) excluding the power cord * See the label on the AC Adaptor for

other specifications.

Types of differences
DCR-HC A/V jack DV Interface Handycam Station LANC jack DCR-HC A/V jack DV Interface Handycam Station LANC jack

z Provided Not provided

On trademarks

OUT IN/OUT z

Memory Stick, , Memory Stick Duo, , Memory Stick PRO Duo, , MagicGate, , MagicGate Memory Stick and MagicGate Memory Stick Duo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. InfoLITHIUM is a trademark of Sony Corporation. i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony Corporation. Picture Package is a trademark of Sony Corporation. is a trademark. Handycam and are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S. Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Windows Media Player is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. iMac, iBook, eMac, Macintosh, Mac OS, PowerBook and Power Mac are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are trademarks of Apple Computer, 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. Roxio is a registered trademark of Roxio, Inc. Toast is a trademark of Roxio, Inc. Macromedia and Macromedia Flash Player are trademarks or registered trademarks of Macromedia, Inc. in the United States and other countries. Pentium is a trademark or registered trademark of Intel Corporation.

How to Use a Sony Handycam Camcorder as a Web Cam Using USB Streaming
This tutorial will guide you through adjusting the required settings on your Sony camcorder for operation as a Web cam using USB streaming. Note: For this tutorial, we are using the menu screens of the DCR-HC96, however, the settings are the same for many Sony Handycam camcorders. Important: The supplied USB Streaming driver is not compatible with Apple Macintosh operating systems. Your computer should have a factory installed USB port and compatible Web cam software, for example Microsoft NetMeeting software. Important: Some computer configurations and Web cam applications may not support the use of your video camera. Check the hardware requirements of your computer and your software. 1. To use the USB streaming function of your camcorder you must install the supplied USB driver. 2. Connect the AC power adapter to the DC IN jack on the camcorder and an AC power outlet. Note: If you use the battery as your power source, the video camera will not function as a Web cam. 3. Connect the USB cable to the USB jack on the camcorder. For models with the Handycam Station, connect the USB cable to the USB jack on the Handycam Station. For the location of the USB jack, refer to the operating instructions supplied with your camcorder. 4. Connect the other end of the USB cable to the USB jack on your computer. 5. Turn on the camcorder to the CAMERA or TAPE mode. 6. On the camcorder screen, touch P-MENU. 7. Touch the Menu option. 8. Touch the Up or Down Arrows to scroll to STANDARD SET. 9. Touch the OK option. 10. Touch the Up or Down Arrows to scroll to USB CAMERA. 11. Touch the OK option. 12. Touch the STREAM option. 13. Power on your computer and start your preferred Web cam application.
This Concludes the Tutorial for How to Use a Sony Handycam Camcorder as a Web Cam Using USB Streaming
2007 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved.