Getting started

Editing Recording Basics
Recording a picture. 18 Shooting backlit subjects BACK LIGHT. 24 Shooting in the dark NightShot/Super NightShot.. 24 Checking the recording END SEARCH.. 26 Dubbing a tape.. 63 Dubbing only desired scenes Digital program editing. 65 Recording from video. 76 Inserting a scene from a VCR Insert Editing. 77
Customizing Your Camcorder
Changing the menu settings. 79

Playback Basics

Playing back a tape. 27 Viewing the recording on TV. 31

Troubleshooting

Types of trouble and their solutions. 85 Self-diagnosis display.. 89 Warning indicators and messages. 90
Advanced Recording Operations
Recording a still image on a tape Tape Photo recording.. 34 Using the wide mode.. 36 Using the fader function.. 37 Using special effects Picture effect. 40 Using special effects Digital effect. 41 Using the PROGRAM AE function. 44 Adjusting the exposure manually. 46 Focusing manually.. 47 Superimposing a title.. 48 Making your own titles. 50 Using the built-in light.. 52

Additional Information

About video cassettes.. 92 About the InfoLITHIUM battery pack.. 93 About i.LINK... 94 Using your camcorder abroad. 96 Maintenance information and precautions.. 97 Specifications.. 102

Quick Reference

Identifying the parts and controls. 103 Index... 110

Quick Start Guide

This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses ( ) for more information.
Connecting the power cord

(p. 15)

Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 11). Open the DC IN jack cover. Quick Start Guide AC power adaptor (supplied)
Connect the plug with its v mark facing up.
Inserting a cassette (p. 17) 1 Open the lid of the
cassette compartment, and press EJECT. The compartment opens automatically.

2 Insert a cassette

Copyright precautions

Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the copyright laws.
Using this manual Precautions on camcorder care
Lens and LCD screen/finder (on mounted models only)
The LCD screen and the finder are manufactured using extremely high-precision technology so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD screen and the finder. These points are normal in the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way. Do not let your camcorder get wet. Keep your camcorder away from rain and sea water. Letting your camcorder get wet may cause your camcorder to malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired [a]. Never leave your camcorder exposed to temperatures above 60C (140F), such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight [b]. Be careful when placing the camera near a window or outdoors. Exposing the LCD screen, the finder or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods may cause malfunctions [c]. Do not directly shoot the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun in low light conditions such as dusk [d].
Checking supplied accessories
Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 3
1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 108) 2 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 12) 3 NP-F330 battery pack (1) (p. 11, 12) 4 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p. 108)
5 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 31) 6 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 105) 7 Lens cap (1) (p. 18, 104)
Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not made due to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc.
Step 1 Preparing the power supply
Installing the battery pack
Install the battery pack to use your camcorder outdoors. Slide the battery pack down until it clicks.
To remove the battery pack
Slide the battery pack out in the direction of the arrow while pressing RELEASE down. BATT

BATT RELEASE

Step 1 Preparing the power supply Charging the battery pack
Use the battery pack after charging it for your camcorder. Your camcorder operates only with the InfoLITHIUM battery pack (L series). See page 93 for more information about InfoLITHIUM battery pack.

(1) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack with the plugs v mark facing up. (2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor. (3) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet. (4) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHARGE). Charging begins, and the CHG lamp lights up.
When the CHG lamp goes out, the charging is completed.
After charging the battery pack
Disconnect the AC power adaptor from the DC IN jack on your camcorder. Notes Prevent metallic objects from coming into contact with the metal parts of the DC plug of the AC power adaptor. This may cause a short-circuit, damaging the AC power adaptor. Keep the battery pack dry. When the battery pack is not to be used for a long time, charge the battery pack fully, and then use it until it fully discharges again. Do this once a year. Keep the battery pack in a cool place. When the battery pack is charged fully The CHG lamp goes out.

CHG lamp

If the battery pack is not installed properly The CHG lamp does not light up while charging the battery pack. If something is wrong with the battery pack The CHG lamp flashes while chargeing the battery pack. If the power goes off although the battery remaining indicator indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate Charge the battery pack fully again so that the indication on the battery remaining indicator is correct.

Charging time

Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied) NP-F530/F550 NP-F730/F730H/F750 NP-F930/F950 NP-F960 Full charge 420
Approximate charging time at 25C (77F)

Recording time

Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied) NP-F530 NP-F550 NP-F730 NP-F730H/F750 NP-F930 NP-F950 NP-F960 Recording with the viewfinder Continuous* Typical** Recording with the LCD screen Continuous* Typical** 680 375
Approximate number of minutes when you use a fully charged battery pack * Approximate continuous recording time at 25C (77F). The battery life will be shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment. * Approximate number of minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/ stop, zooming and turning the power on/off. The actual battery life may be shorter.

Playing time

Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied) NP-F530 NP-F550 NP-F730 NP-F730H/F750 NP-F930 NP-F950 NP-F960 Playing time on LCD screen Playing time with LCD closed 570 680
Approximate number of minutes when you use a fully charged battery pack Approximate playing time at 25C (77F). The battery life will be shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment.
What is InfoLITHIUM? The InfoLITHIUM is a lithium ion battery pack which can exchange data such as battery consumption with compatible electronic equipment. This unit is compatible with the InfoLITHIUM battery pack (L series). Your camcorder operates only with the InfoLITHIUM battery. InfoLITHIUM battery packs have the mark. InfoLITHIUM is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Recording a picture To record pictures with the viewfinder adjusting the viewfinder
If you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus. Lift up the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever.
Recording a picture Indicators displayed in the recording mode
The indicators are not recorded on tape. Remaining battery time indicator Format indicator
Recording mode indicator STBY/REC indicator

0:00:01

Time code/Tape counter indicator Remaining tape indicator This appears after you start to record for a while. Time indicator This is displayed for five seconds after the POWER switch is set to CAMERA. Date indicator This is displayed for five seconds after the POWER switch is set to CAMERA.

4 2001

12:05:56 AM
Remaining battery time indicator The remaining battery time indicator roughly indicates the recording time. The indicator may not be correct, depending on the conditions in which you are recording. When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about 1 minute for the correct remaining battery time in minutes to be displayed. Time code The time code indicates the recording or playback time, 0:00:00 (hours:minutes: seconds) in CAMERA mode and 0:00:00:00 (hours:minutes:seconds:frames) in VCR mode. You cannot rewrite only the time code. You cannot reset the time code.
Recording a picture Shooting backlit subjects BACK LIGHT
When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the backlight function. Press BACK LIGHT in CAMERA mode. The. indicator appears on the screen. To cancel, press BACK LIGHT again.

BACK LIGHT

If you press EXPOSURE when shooting backlit subjects The backlight function will be canceled.
Shooting in the dark NightShot/Super NightShot
The NightShot function enables you to shoot a subject in a dark place. For example, you can satisfactorily record the environment of nocturnal animals for observation when you use this function. While your camcorder is in CAMERA mode, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. and NIGHTSHOT indicators flash on the screen. To cancel the NightShot function, slide NIGHTSHOT to OFF.

NIGHTSHOT

OFF ON SUPER NIGHTSHOT

NightShot Light emitter

Using the Super NightShot
The Super NightShot mode makes subjects up to 16 times brighter than those recorded in the NightShot mode.
(1) Slide NIGHTSHOT to ON in CAMERA mode. and NIGHTSHOT indicators flash on the screen. and SUPER NIGHTSHOT indicators flash (2) Press SUPER NIGHTSHOT. on the screen. To cancel the Super NightShot mode, press SUPER NIGHTSHOT again.

To search the last scene recorded (END SEARCH)
Press END SEARCH in the stop mode. The last 5 seconds of the recorded section are played back and the playback stops. In the various playback modes Sound is muted. The previous recording may appear as a mosaic image when playing back. Notes on the playback pause mode When the playback pause mode lasts for 3 minutes, your camcorder automatically enters the stop mode. To resume playback, press N. The previous recording may appear. Note on the slow playback mode The slow playback can be performed smoothly on your camcorder; however, this function does not work for an output image from the DV IN/OUT jack.
Viewing the recording on TV
Connect your camcorder to your TV with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder to watch the playback picture on the TV screen. You can operate the playback control buttons in the same way as when you monitor playback pictures on the LCD screen. When monitoring the playback picture on the TV screen, we recommend that you power your camcorder from a wall outlet using the AC power adaptor (p. 15). Refer to the operating instructions of your TV. Open the jack cover. Connect your camcorder to the TV using the A/V connecting cable. Then, set the TV/VCR selector on the TV to VCR.
Yellow White S VIDEO OUT IN A/ V OUT S VIDEO VIDEO AUDIO : Signal flow Red
If your TV is already connected to a VCR
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR by using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.
If your TV is a monaural type
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and the white or the red plug to the audio input jack on the TV. If you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red plug, the sound is R (right) signal. If your TV has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) to obtain high-quality pictures. With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (optional) to the S video jacks on both your camcorder and the TV.
Viewing the recording on TV Using the AV cordless IR receiver
Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (optional) to your TV or VCR, you can easily view the picture on your TV. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the AV cordless IR receiver.

SUPER LASER LINK

Super laser link emitter Before operation Attach the power supply such as the AC power adaptor to your camcorder, and insert the recorded tape.
(1) After connecting your TV and AV cordless IR receiver, set the POWER switch on the AV cordless IR receiver to ON. (2) Turn the TV on and set the TV/VCR selector on the TV to VCR. (3) Set the POWER switch on your camcorder to VCR. (4) Press SUPER LASER LINK. The lamp of SUPER LASER LINK lights up. (5) Press N on your camcorder to start playback. (6) Point the super laser link emitter at the AV cordless IR receiver. Adjust the position of your camcorder and the AV cordless IR receiver to obtain clear playback pictures.
To cancel the super laser link function
Press SUPER LASER LINK. The lamp on the SUPER LASER LINK button goes out.
If you use a Sony TV You can turn on the TV automatically when you press SUPER LASER LINK on your camcorder. To do so, do as follows in advance: Turn the TVs main switch on. Set AUTO TV ON to ON in the menu settings. Point the super laser link emitter of your camcorder at the TVs remote sensor. You can switch the video input of the TV automatically to the one which the AV cordless IR receiver is connected. To do so, set AUTO TV ON to ON and TV INPUT to the same video input (1, 2, 3) in the menu settings. With some models, however, the picture and sound may be interrupted momentarily when the video input is switched. The above feature may not work on some TV models. If you turn the power off The super laser link function turns off automatically. When the super laser link function is activated (the SUPER LASER LINK button is lit) Your camcorder consumes power. Press SUPER LASER LINK to turn off the super laser link function when it is not needed. is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Advanced Recording Operations
Recording a still image on a tape Tape Photo recording
You can record a still image like a photograph. This mode is useful when you want to record an image such as a photograph or when you print a picture using a video printer (optional). You can record about 510 images in the SP mode and about 765 images in the LP mode on a tape which can record for 60 minutes in the SP mode.
(1) In the standby mode, keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a still image appears. The CAPTURE indicator appears. Recording does not start yet. To change the still image, release PHOTO, select a still image again, and then press and hold PHOTO lightly. (2) Press PHOTO deeper. The still image on the screen is recorded for about seven seconds. The sound during those seven seconds is also recorded.
The still image is displayed on the screen until recording is completed.

CAPTURE

(1) In CAMERA mode, select P EFFECT in in the menu settings. (p. 80). (2) Select the desired picture effect mode in the menu settings, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial.
MA N U A L S E T P ROGR AM A E P E F F ECT D E F F ECT AUTO SHTR RE T URN
OF F N E G. A R T SEP I A B &W SO L AR I Z E SL IM S T RE T CH PASTE L MO S A I C

[ ME N U ] : E N D

To cancel the picture effect function
Set P EFFECT to OFF in the menu settings. While using the picture effect function You cannot select OLD MOVIE with the digital effect function. When you turn the power off The picture effect is automatically canceled.
Using special effects Digital effect
You can add special effects to recorded images using the various digital functions. The sound is recorded normally. STILL You can record a still image so that it is superimposed on a moving image. FLASH (FLASH MOTION) You can record still images successively at constant intervals. LUMI. (LUMINANCEKEY) You can swap a brighter area in a still image with a moving image. TRAIL You can record the image so that an incidental image like a trail is left. SLOW SHTR (SLOW SHUTTER) You can slow down the shutter speed. The slow shutter mode is good for recording dark images more brightly. OLD MOVIE You can add an old movie type atmosphere to images. Your camcorder automatically sets the wide mode to ON, picture effect to SEPIA, and the appropriate shutter speed. Still image Moving image

Still image

Moving image
(1) In CAMERA mode, select D EFFECT in in the menu settings (p. 80). (2) Select the desired digital effect mode in the menu settings, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The indicator lights up and the bars appear. In the STILL and LUMI. modes, the still image is stored in memory. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the effect as follows: STILL The rate of the still image you want to superimpose on the moving image FLASH The interval of flash motion LUMI. The color scheme of the area in the still image which is to be swapped with a moving image TRAIL The vanishing time of the incidental image SLOW SHTR Shutter speed. The larger the shutter speed number, the slower the shutter speed. OLD MOVIE No adjustment necessary The more bars there are on the screen, the stronger the digital effect. The bars appear in the following modes: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL.

DANGER

Not to be handled by children. Emits intense heat and light. Use with caution to reduce the risk of fire or injury to persons. Do not directly light at persons or materials from less than 1.22 m (4 feet) during use and until cool. Turn the built-in light off when not in use. When you press LIGHT The indicator changes as follows:

no indicator

Notes The built-in light turns off automatically in the following cases: When it stays on in the AUTO mode for more than 5 minutes When you leave it on for more than 5 minutes with no cassette inserted or after the tape has run out. To turn the built-in light on again. Press LIGHT again. The battery pack is quickly discharging while the built-in light is turned on. Turn it off when not in use. When you do not use your camcorder, turn the built-in light off and remove the battery pack to avoid turning on the built-in light accidentally. When flickering occurs while shooting in the AUTO mode, press LIGHT until the indicator appears. The built-in light may turn on/off when you use the PROGRAM AE or backlight function while shooting in the AUTO mode. The built-in light may be turned off when inserting or ejecting a cassette. While the end search function is working, the built-in light is turned off. When you use the conversion lens (optional), light from the built-in light is blocked and may not illuminate the subject properly.

Replacing the bulb

Use the Sony XB-3D halogen lamp (optional). The supplied halogen lamp is not on the market. Purchase the Sony XB-3D halogen lamp. Remove the power source before replacing the bulb.
(1) Remove the built-in light unit while pushing the hole under the built-in light unit using a wire. (2) Turn the bulb housing counterclockwise and detach from the built-in light unit. (3) Replace the bulb using a dry cloth. (4) Attach the bulb housing turning it clockwise, then replace the built-in light unit.
Using the built-in light CAUTION
When replacing the bulb, use only the Sony XB-3D halogen lamp (optional) to reduce the risk of fire. To prevent possible burn hazard, disconnect the power source before replacing and do not touch the bulb until the bulb becomes cool enough to handle (for about 30 minutes or more). Note To prevent the bulb from being smudged with finger prints, handle it with a dry cloth, etc. If the bulb is smudged, wipe it completely.

Notes When you connect with an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable), you may not be able to operate the dubbing function correctly, depending on the VCR. Set CONTROL to IR in the menu settings of your camcorder. When you complete step 3, the image to adjust the syncronicity is recorded for about 50 seconds. If you start recording from the very beginning of the tape, the first few seconds of the tape may not record properly. Be sure to allow about 10 seconds of lead before starting the recording. If you connect using an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) With a digital-to-digital connection, video and audio signals are transmitted in digital format for high-quality editing.
Dubbing only desired scenes Digital program editing Operation 1: Making the program
(1) Insert the tape for playback into your camcorder, and insert a tape for recording into the VCR. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select VIDEO EDIT, then press the dial. (5) Search for the beginning of the first scene you want to insert using the video operation buttons, then pause playback. (6) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. The IN point of the first program is set, and the top part of the program mark changes to light blue. (7) Search for the end of the first scene you want to insert using the video operation buttons, then pause playback. (8) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. The OUT point of the first program is set, then the bottom part of the program mark changes to light blue. (9) Set the program by repeating steps 5 to 8. When the program is set, the program mark changes to light blue. You can set a maximum of 20 programs.
STOP REW PLAY FF PAUSE REC
OTHERS BEEP COMMA ND E R D I SP L AY V I D EO E D I T R E A D Y ED I T SE T I ND I C A T OR R E T URN [ ME NU ] : E ND V I D EO E D I T MA R K UNDO ERASE A L L S T ART TOT A L SCENE [ ME NU ] : E ND 0:3 2:3 0:1 IN 0:0 0:0 0:0
V I D EO E D I T MA R K UNDO ERASE A L L S T ART TOT A L SCENE [ ME NU ] : E ND 0:0 8:5 5:1 OU T V I D EO E D I T MA R K UNDO ERASE A L L S T ART TOT A L SCENE [ ME NU ] : E ND 0:0 9:0 7:2 IN V I D EO E D I T MA R K UNDO ERASE A L L S T ART TOT A L SCENE [ ME NU ] : E ND 0:1 0:0 1:4 IN 0:0 0:0 0:0 0:0 0:1 2:1 0:0 0:4 7:3
Erasing the program you have set
Erase OUT first and then IN from the last set program.
(1) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select UNDO, then press the dial. (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. The last set program mark flashes, then the setting is canceled.

Customizing Your Camcorder
Changing the menu settings
To change the mode settings in the menu settings, select the menu items with the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The default settings can be partially changed. First, select the icon, then the menu item and then the mode.
(1) In CAMERA or VCR mode, press MENU. (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired icon, then press the dial to set. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired item, then press the dial to set. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired mode, and press the dial to set. RETURN and press the dial, then (5) If you want to change other items, select repeat steps from 2 to 4.
For details, see Selecting the mode setting of each item (p. 80).

CAMERA

MA NU A L S E T P ROGR AM A E P E F F ECT D E F F ECT AUTO SHTR
MA NU A L S E T P E F F ECT D E F F ECT
MA NU A L S E T P ROGR AM A E P E F F ECT OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP COMMA ND E R D I SP L AY R E C L AMP V I D EO E D I T ED I T SE T I ND I C A T OR OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP COMMA ND E R D I SP L AY R E C L AMP V I D EO E D I T ED I T SE T 0 HR
OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP
OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP COMMA ND E R ON D I SP L AY R E C L AMP V I D EO E D I T ED I T SE T I ND I C A T OR OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP COMMA ND E R ON D I SP L AY OF F R E C L AMP V I D EO E D I T ED I T SE T
OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP COMMA ND E R ON D I SP L AY OF F R E C L AMP V I D EO E D I T ED I T SE T I ND I C A T OR R E T URN OTHERS WOR L D T I ME BEEP COMMA ND E R O F F D I SP L AY R E C L AMP V I D EO E D I T ED I T SE T I ND I C A T OR R E T URN
To make the menu display disappear

Press MENU.

Menu items are displayed as the following icons: MANUAL SET CAMERA SET VCR SET LCD SET TAPE SET SETUP MENU OTHERS
Selecting the mode setting of each item
z is the default setting.
Menu items differ according to the position of the POWER switch. The screen shows only the items you can operate at the moment.
Icon/item PROGRAM AE P EFFECT D EFFECT AUTO SHTR Mode z ON OFF D ZOOM z OFF 16:9WIDE STEADYSHOT z OFF ON z ON OFF Meaning To suit your specific shooting requirement (p. 44) To add special effects like those in films or on the TV to images (p. 40, 55). To add special effects using the various digital functions (p. 42, 56). To automatically activate the electronic shutter when shooting in bright conditions To not automatically activate the electronic shutter even when shooting in bright conditions To deactivate digital zoom. Up to 20 zoom is carried out. To activate digital zoom. More than 20 to 40 zoom is performed digitally. (p. 21) To activate digital zoom. More than 20 to 560 zoom is performed digitally. (p. 21) To record a 16:9 wide picture (p. 36) To compensate for camera-shake To cancel the SteadyShot function. Natural pictures are produced when shooting a stationary object with a tripod. To use the NightShot Light function (p. 24) To cancel the NightShot Light function CAMERA CAMERA CAMERA CAMERA POWER switch CAMERA CAMERA VCR CAMERA VCR CAMERA

N.S. LIGHT

z ON OFF
Notes on the SteadyShot function The SteadyShot function will not correct excessive camera-shake. Attachment of a conversion lens (optional) may influence the SteadyShot function. If you cancel the SteadyShot function The SteadyShot off indicator appears. Your camcorder prevents excessive compensation for camera-shake.

POWER switch VCR

Icon/item HiFi SOUND

Mode z STEREO 1 2

Meaning To play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape with main and sub sound To play back a stereo tape with the left sound or a dual sound track tape with main sound To play back a stereo tape with the right sound or a dual sound track tape with sub sound To adjust the balance between the stereo 1 and stereo 2

AUDIO MIX

LCD BRIGHT

VCR CAMERA

To adjust the brightness on the LCD screen with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

To darken LCD B. L.

To lighten VCR CAMERA VCR CAMERA
z BRT NORMAL To set the brightness on the LCD screen normal BRIGHT To brighten the LCD screen To adjust the color on the LCD screen, turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the following bar To reduce intensity To increase intensity

LCD COLOR

Note on AUDIO MIX When playing back a tape recorded in the 16-bit mode, you cannot adjust the balance. Notes on LCD B.L. When you select BRIGHT, battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording. When you use power sources other than the battery pack, BRIGHT is automatically selected.
Icon/item REC MODE Mode z SP LP AUDIO MODE z 12BIT 16BIT q REMAIN z AUTO Meaning To record in the SP (Standard Play) mode To increase the recording time to 1.5 times the SP mode To record in the 12-bit mode (two stereo sounds) To record in the 16-bit mode (the one stereo sound with high quality) To display the remaining tape bar: for about 8 seconds after your camcorder is turned on and calculates the remaining amount of tape for about 8 seconds after a cassette is inserted and your camcorder calculates the remaining amount of tape for about 8 seconds after N is pressed in VCR mode for about 8 seconds after DISPLAY is pressed to display the screen indicators for the period of tape rewinding, forwarding or picture search in the VCR mode To always display the remaining tape bar To display date, time and recording data during playback To display date and time during playback VCR VCR CAMERA POWER switch VCR CAMERA CAMERA

Cleaning the video head

To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads. The video head may be dirty when: mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture. playback pictures do not move. playback pictures are hardly visible. playback pictures do not appear. the x indicator and CLEANING CASSETTE message appear one after another on the screen.
If the above problem occurs, clean the video heads with the Sony V8-25CLD cleaning cassette (optional). Check the picture and if the above problems persist, repeat cleaning.
Removing dust from inside the viewfinder
(1) 1Remove the screw with a screwdriver (not supplied). 2Then, while holding the RELEASE knob up, 3turn the eyecup in a counterclockwise direction and pull it out. (2) Clean the surface with a commercially available blower for a still camera. (3) Turn the eyecup in a clockwise direction, then replace the screw.
Caution Do not remove any other screws. You may remove only the screw to remove the eyecup.
Maintenance information and precautions Charging the built-in rechargeable lithium cell
Your camcorder is supplied with a built-in rechargeable lithium cell so as to retain the date and time , etc., regardless of the setting of the POWER switch. The rechargeable lithium cell is always charged as long as you are using your camcorder. The cell, however, will get discharged in about 4 months if you do not use your camcorder at all. Even if the rechargeable lithium cell is not charged, it will not affect the camcorder operation. To retain the date and time, etc., charge the cell if the cell is discharged. Charging the built-in rechargeable lithium cell Connect your camcorder to house current using the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder, and leave your camcorder with the POWER switch turned off for more than 24 hours. Or install the fully charged battery pack in your camcorder, and leave your camcorder with the POWER switch turned off for more than 24 hours.

Precautions

Camcorder operation
Operate your camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor). For DC or AC operation, use the accessories recommended in this operating instructions. If any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further. Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens. Keep the POWER switch set to OFF (CHARGE) when you are not using your camcorder. Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for example, and operate it. Doing so might cause heat to build up inside. Keep your camcorder away from strong magnetic fields or mechanical vibration. Noise may appear on the image. Do not touch the LCD screen with your fingers or a sharp-pointed object. If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a residual image may appear on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction. While using your camcorder, the back of the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a malfunction.

qd qf qk ql qg qh qj

qd Video control buttons (p. 27, 30) x STOP (stop) m REW (rewind) N PLAY (playback) M FF (fastforward) X PAUSE (pause) z REC (recording) qf SUPER LASER LINK button (p. 32) qg Microphone qh Remote sensor qj Infrared rays emitter (p. 24, 32) qk NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 24) ql SUPER NIGHTSHOT button (p. 25) w; Camera recording lamp (p. 18) wa Display window (p. 109) ws Tripod receptacle (base) Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 6.5 mm (9/32 inch). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw may damage your camcorder.

w; wa ws

Attaching the lens cap Attach the lens cap to the grip strap as illustrated.

wj wd wk wl wg wh e;

wd Speaker wf LCD screen (p. 19) wg MENU button (p. 36, 79) wh RESET button (p. 88)
wj EXPOSURE button (p. 46) wk FADER button (p. 38) wl BACK LIGHT button (p. 24) e; FOCUS button (p. 47)
Attaching the shoulder strap Attach the shoulder strap supplied with your camcorder to the hooks for the shoulder strap.

eg ea eh ej

es ed ef
ea END SEARCH button (p. 26) es DISPLAY button (p. 28) ed PB ZOOM button (p. 57) ef VOLUME buttons (p. 27) eg LIGHT button (p. 52)
eh PHOTO button (p. 34) ej Viewfinder (p. 22) ek CHG lamp (p. 12) el TITLE button (p. 48, 50)

r; rd ra rs

rf rg rh
r; EJECT button (p. 17) ra Cassette compartment (p. 17) rs Grip strap rd S VIDEO OUT jack (p. 31, 35, 63)
rf Built-in light (p. 52) rg A/V OUT jack (p. 31, 35, 63)
DV IN/OUT jack (p. 64, 76) The DV IN/OUT jack is i.LINK compatible.

Fastening the grip strap

Fasten the grip strap firmly.
Identifying the parts and controls Remote Commander
The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on your camcorder function identically to the buttons on your camcorder.
1 PHOTO button (p. 34) 2 DISPLAY button (p. 28) 3 SEARCH MODE button (p. 59, 61) 4./> buttons (p. 59, 61) 5 Tape transport buttons (p. 30) 6 Transmitter Point toward the remote sensor to control the camcorder after turning on the camcorder.
7 ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 58, 78) 8 START/STOP button (p. 18) 9 DATA CODE button (p. 28) 0 Power zoom button (p. 21)
To prepare the Remote Commander
Insert 2 size AA (R6) batteries by matching the + and polarities on the batteries to the + marks inside the battery compartment.
Notes on the Remote Commander Point the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or overhead lighting. Otherwise, the Remote Commander may not function properly. Your camcorder works in the Commander mode VTR 2. Commander modes 1, 2 and 3 are used to distinguish your camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in the Commander mode VTR 2, we recommend changing the Commander mode or covering the sensor of the VCR with black paper.

CoachCam:

For camcorders not on this list, check your manual. Your camcorder must have the ability to record an analog signal while in VCR or VTR or Play mode and should include instructions saying "Recording from VCR or TV" or "Dubbing from an external source," or similar language.
Current Compatible Models (In Stores) October 2007
Manufacturer Sony Sony JVC Hitachi Canon Samsung Website

sonystyle - refurb

www.jvc.com www.hitachi.com www.canondv.com
Model # DCR PC55 DCR - HC96 GZ-MG 155, 255, 555 DZ-HS500A (Hybrid 500) HV10, HV20 SC-D975
Compatible Yes No x x x x x x
Format Tape Tape Hard Drive Hard Drive + DVD Hi-Def/ Tape Tape
Currently you can get some great buys on the JVC GZ-MG155, and the Hitachi DZ-HS500A on the internet. Just type in the model number and do a "google" search NOTE: If you are using Dartfish software, you will need to use a tape format. Dartfish currently accepts only AVI files and hard drive and dvd camcorders do not use this file format.
Compatible Models 2004- Jan 2007 May Still be in Stores Shelves or New on Internet
Manufacturer Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Samsung Website

www.sonystyle.com

Model # DCR DVD 101,201,203,301,403 DCR DVD 305,405,505 DCR TRV 460, 480 DCR HC 30,32,40,42,65,85,96 DCR VX 2100 DCR SR- 60-80-100 DCR HDR FX1 DCR DVD 7,92,105,205 DCR TRV 138,338 DCR TRV 260,280 DCR HC 20,26,36,46 SCD 107 SCD 103,6550
Compatible Yes No x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Format DVD DVD Dig-8 Mini-DV Mini-DV Hard Drive Hi-Def DVD Hi-8 Dig-8 Mini-DV Mini-DV Mini-DV Mini-DV Mini-DV Mini-DV Mini-DV Mini-DV Hard Drive Mini-DV
Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon JVC

www.canondv.com

Optura S1,50,60,400,500,600,700 Elura 80,85,90,100 ZR 100,200,300,400,700 DC 10,20 ZR 500,600, 800,830, 850 Everio MC20,50,500 GR DVL 820,915,920, 9800

www.jvc.com

Camcorder models prior to 2004
Manufacturer Sony Sony Website

GVD 200

Compatible Yes No Format X DIG 8
Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Sony Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Canon Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Panasonic Hitachi Hitachi Hitachi Hitachi JVC JVC JVC JVC JVC JVC JVC JVC JVC JVC
GVD 800 DCR TRV 510 DCR TRV 230, 330, 530, 730 DCR TRV 240, 340, 740, 840 DCR TRV 350, 850, 950 DCR DVD 100 , 200, 300 CCD TRV87 DCR 120 BT DCR IP 1, 5, 7, 55, 220 DCR IP 7B T DCR PD 150 DCR TRV 8, 9, 10 DCR TRV 15,16,17,18 DCR TRV 22, 25, 27, 33, 38, 39 DCR TRV 50, 70, 80 DCR PC 105 DCR PC 330 DCR TRV 19 DCR TRV 107,108, 308, 408, 608 DCR TRV 130, 140, 250
X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
DIG 8 DIG 8 DIG 8 DIG 8 DIG 8 DVD HI-8 MICROMV MICROMV MICROMV MICROMV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV HI-8 DIG 8
ELURA 40, 50,60,65,70 ZR 20,45,50,55,60,65,70,75,80,85,90 GL-MC Optura xi Optura 300 Optura 200 Optura 10, 20 ES 8400, 8600 ES 75

www.panasonic.com

X X X X X X X X X X
MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV MINI-DV
DC35 z DV 851 Mini DVC Requires our SVid adapter PV-GS 50,70, 953 SV-AV30 VDR-M30 PV DC 152, 250 PV-L353, 453, 552h PV DV 102, 202, 402 PV DV 52, 53, 73, 103, 203 SV-AV100

www.hitachi.com

X X X X X X X X X X X X X

MINI-DV

DZ MV 100 A DZ MV 350 A, 380 DZ MV 380 A

? DVD DVD

GRD VL 8200 GR-D70, 90 GR-D500, 800 GR-D200, DX300 Requires our SVid adapter GR-DV 3000U GR DVL 120,300,310,510,520,720,815 GRSXM 230,240,250,740,750, 915 GR-DVM96U GR-DVP9U

X X X X X* X X X X

JVC JVC Sharp Sharp Sharp Sharp Sharp Sharp Sharp Sharp

www.sharp-usa.com

GR-DX75, 95 GR-D30
VLNZ100U, 105U, 150U, 155U VL-MC500U VL-Z3U, Z5U, Z7U VLNZ 50U, 55U VLA H all VL-AD 111U,131U,151U,161U, 260U VL-Z1U

X X X X X X X