* MTF stands for Modulation Transfer Function. The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens.
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.
About the language setting
The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen language before using your camcorder if necessary (p. 14).

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 country/region. To view your recordings on a TV, you need a NTSC system-based TV.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS. 3 Read this first.. 5

Using the Menu

Using the menu items..27
Operation button items.. 28 Menu items.. 35 MANUAL SET menu. 36

P EFFECT

Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items.. 10 Step 2: Charging the battery pack.. 11 Step 3: Turning the power on and setting the date and time. 14
Changing the language setting... 14

CAMERA SET menu. 37

D ZOOM/WIDE SEL/ STEADYSHOT, etc.

VCR SET menu.. 38

AUDIO MIX

LCD/VF SET menu.. 39

LCD B.L./LCD COLOR/VF B.L., etc
Step 4: Making setting adjustments before recording.. 15 Step 5: Inserting a Cassette. 16

TAPE SET menu. 40

REC MODE/AUDIO MODE/ REMAIN

SETUP MENU menu. 40

USB STREAM/LANGUAGE, etc.

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam).. 17 Recording.. 19
Zooming.. 20 Recording in dark places (NightShot plus). 20 Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects. 21 Recording in mirror mode. 21

OTHERS menu.. 41

WORLD TIME, etc.

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders. 42 Recording pictures from a TV or VCR, etc. 44

Y M D H M JAN : AM

2 Set [Y] (year) with

then touch.

Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Touch t [MENU] t (SETUP MENU) t [ LANGUAGE], then select the desired language.
You can set any year up to the year 2079.
3 Set [M] (month), then touch
and repeat for [D] (day), [H] (hour) and [M] (minute).
Step 4: Making setting adjustments before recording

Opening the lens cover

Slide the LENS COVER switch to OPEN.

The viewfinder

You can view pictures using the viewfinder to avoid wearing down the battery, or when the picture seen on the LCD screen is poor.
After recording, set the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE, to close the lens cover.

The LCD panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2).
DISP/BATT INFO 180 degrees (max.)
Viewfinder lens adjustment lever Move it until the picture is clear. z Tips
You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight by selecting (LCD/VF SET) [VF B.L.] (p. 39).

The grip belt

Fasten the grip belt and hold your camcorder correctly.
90 degrees (max.) b Notes
90 degrees to the camcorder
Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD panel.
If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the lens side, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing out. This is convenient during playback operations. See [LCD BRT] (p. 32) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen. Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the screen indicators (such as Battery Info) on or off.
Step 5: Inserting a Cassette
You can use mini DV (p. 58). cassettes only
portion marked {DO NOT PUSH} while it is sliding in. It may cause a malfunction.

1 Slide and hold the

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

OPEN/EJECT lever

During Easy Handycam operation, the BACK LIGHT button (p. 21) is unavailable. [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation.] appears if an attempted operation is not available in Easy Handycam mode.
Open the lens cover (p. 15).
POWER switch REC START/ STOP A

REC START/STOP B

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA lamp.
Press REC START/STOP A (or B).

[STBY]

To stop recording, press REC START/STOP again.

Recording (Continued)

Zooming
You can magnify images up to 40 times the original size with the power zoom lever or the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.
You can set [D ZOOM] (p. 37) if you want to zoom to a level greater than 40.
Recording in dark places (NightShot plus)
Wider range of view: (Wide angle)

Infrared port

Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to ON. ( and [NIGHTSHOT PLUS] appear.)
b Notes Close view: (Telephoto)
The NightShot plus function uses infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 28) when it is hard to focus automatically. Do not use the NightShot plus function in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
[STEADYSHOT] may not reduce image blurring as desired when the power zoom lever is set to the T (Telephoto) side. Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom lever. If you move your finger off the power zoom lever, the operation sound of the power zoom lever may also be recorded. You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons on the LCD frame. 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.
Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, press BACK LIGHT to display. To cancel the back light function, press BACK LIGHT again.

Recording in mirror mode

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (2).
A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the image will be normal when recorded.
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

Start playing back.

Touch to rewind the tape to the desired point, then touch

Play/Pause* toggles as you touch it

to start playback.

Rewind/Fast forward
* Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes.

To adjust the volume

Touch t [PAGE1] t [VOL], then / to adjust the volume.
To search for a scene during playback
Touch and hold / during playback (Picture Search), or forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip Scan).
You can play back in various modes ([V SPD PLAY], p. 32).

while fast

Using the guide functions (USAGE GUIDE)
You can easily select the desired setting screens by using the guide functions (USAGE GUIDE).
Unavailable settings during Easy Handycam
During Easy Handycam operation, some items are unavailable. If an attempted setting is not available, but still desired, touch [SET] to display an on-screen instruction. Follow the instruction to cancel Easy Handycam operation and then select the setting.
If [SET] is not displayed in step 3, follow the instruction on the screen.
Your camcorder has 2 guide functions as shown below.
SHOOT GUIDE: DISP GUIDE: Takes you to the setting screens related to recording. Enables you to check the meaning of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. See page 71 for details.
1 Touch [GUIDE]. 2 Select the desired item.
e.g., to record night views Touch [SHOOT GUIDE] t [SELCT SCENE] t [PAGE r]/[PAGE R] to display [To keep the mood of a night view].

3 Touch [SET].

The desired setting screen appears. Adjust the settings according to your purpose.
Searching for the starting point
Make sure that the CAMERA lamp lights up (p. 19).

1 Touch

[MENU].

t [PAGE1] t

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)
[END SCH] (END SEARCH) will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape. Touch t [PAGE1], then touch [END SCH].

60min 0:00:00

2 Select
(CAMERA SET) with , then touch [EXEC].
3 Select [EDITSEARCH] with

When connecting your camcorder to a TV through a VCR
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, etc.), if the VCR has an input selector.
When your TV is monaural (Only one audio input jack)
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR.
You can display the time code on the TV screen by setting [DISP OUT] to [V-OUT/LCD] (p. 41).

Using the menu items

1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow
repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp. CAMERA lamp: settings for recording on a tape PLAY/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing
2 Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
Unavailable items will be grayed out.
x To use the operation buttons on PAGE1/PAGE2/PAGE3
For details of the button items, see page 28.
1 Touch. 2 Touch the desired page. 3 Touch the desired button. 4 Select the desired setting, then touch t (Close). b Notes
With some settings, you do not have to touch.
2 Select the desired menu. Touch / to select the item, then touch [EXEC]. (The process in step 3 and 4 is the same as that in step 2.) 3 Select the desired item. 4 Customize the item. After finishing the settings, touch (close) to hide the menu screen. Each touch of [ RET.] takes you to the previous screen.
x To use menu items during Easy Handycam operation
1 Touch. 2 Select the desired button. 3 Change your item setting. After finishing the settings, touch (close). b Notes
Cancel Easy Handycam operation to use menu items normally.

x To use menu items

For details of the items, see page 35.
1 Touch t [MENU] on [PAGE1]. The menu index screen appears.

Operation button items

Available operation buttons vary depending on the position of the lamp and the display (PAGE). The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. The available functions during Easy Handycam operation are marked with *. See page 27 for details on selecting button items.
You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus on a certain subject intentionally.
When the CAMERA lamp lights up [PAGE1]

SPOT FOCUS

You can select and adjust the focal point to a subject not located in the center of the screen.
60min SPOT FOCUS STBY 0:00:00
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.

To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] in step 1.
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.

Touch here

AUTO END
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.
Touch the point where you want to focus on in the frame. 9 appears. To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] or set [FOCUS] to [AUTO].
If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL].
SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)
You can adjust and fix the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded in suitable brightness even when there is strong contrast between the subject and the background, such as subjects in the spotlight on stage.
60min SPOT METER STBY 0:00:00

TWILIGHT* (

Select to maintain the darkening atmosphere of the distant surroundings in twilight scenes.
SUNRSSUNST* (Sunrise & Sunset) ( )
Select to maintain the atmosphere of situations such as sunsets and sunrises.
Touch the point where you want to fix and adjust the exposure on the screen. appears. To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] or set [EXPOSURE] to [AUTO].
If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

LANDSCAPE* (

Select to shoot distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows between the camcorder and the subject.
DISP GUIDE (Display Guide)*
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( See page 71. )
Select to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.

See page 35.

SCENE SEL.
You can record pictures effectively in various situations with the SCENE SEL. function. B AUTO
Select to automatically record pictures effectively without the [SCENE SEL.] function.

SPOTLIGHT** (

Select to prevent peoples faces from appearing excessively white when subjects are lit by strong light.
Operation button items (Continued)
SPORT** (Sports lesson) (

60min STBY 0:00:00

Select to minimize shake when shooting fast moving subjects.

AUTO EXPOSURE MANU AL

3 Connect your camcorder to the
recording device (VCR or DVD/ HDD recorder) with the A/V connecting cable (supplied) 1, an A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional) 2 or an i.LINK cable (optional) 3. Connect your camcorder to the input jacks of the recording device.
4 Start playback on the camcorder,
and recording on the recording device. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your recording device for details.
Recording pictures from a TV or VCR, etc.
Using an i.LINK cable (optional), you can record pictures or TV programs from a TV or VCR, etc., on a tape. Be sure to insert a cassette for recording in your camcorder beforehand. You can connect your camcorder to a TV, VCR or an i.LINK-compatible device using the i.LINK cable (optional). Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 11). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
You cannot record pictures on your camcorder from a TV or VCR that does not have an i.LINK jack. You cannot input picture and sound separately.
To i.LINK jack DV Interface (i.LINK)

TVs or VCR

i.LINK

i.LINK cable (optional)

When connecting your camcorder to another device using an i.LINK cable, the video and audio signals are transmitted digitally, producing high quality pictures and sound. Note that you cannot output picture and sound separately.

3 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.
4 Set your camcorder to recording 1 Connect your TV or VCR to your
camcorder with an i.LINK cable. pause mode. Touch t [PAGE3] t [REC CTRL] t [REC PAUSE].
2 If you are recording from a VCR,

insert a cassette.

5 When recording pictures from a
VCR: Start playing the cassette on the VCR. When recording pictures from a TV: Select a TV program. The picture played on the connected device appears on the LCD screen of your camcorder.
6 Touch [REC START] at the point
you want to start recording.

7 Stop recording.

Touch (Stop) or [REC PAUSE].

8 Touch [

The indicator appears when you connect your camcorder and other devices via an i.LINK cable. (This indicator may also appear on the connected device.)
What you can do with Windows computer
When you install the Picture Motion Browser on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations.
You cannot install the supplied software, Picture Motion Browser, on a Macintosh computer.

About First Step Guide

The First Step Guide is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software Picture Motion Browser stored on the CD-ROM (supplied). Referring to Installing the First Step Guide (p. 47), start the First Step Guide, then follow the instructions.
About the help function of the software
The Help guide explains all the functions of all the software applications. Refer to the Help guide for further detailed operations after reading the First Step Guide thoroughly. To display the Help guide, click the [?] mark on the screen.

Main functions

x Importing/Viewing movies taken with your camcorder
You can manage movies by date and time of shooting, and select movies you want to view as thumbnails. These thumbnails can be enlarged and played in a slide show.

System requirements

When using Picture Motion Browser OS: Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, Windows XP Home Edition, Windows XP Professional or Windows XP Media Center Edition Standard installation is required. Operation is not assured if the above OS has been upgraded or in a multi-boot environment. CPU: Intel Pentium III 800 MHz or faster Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (This product is based on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have DirectX installed.) Sound system: Direct Sound compatible sound card Memory: 256 MB or more
x Editing movies imported to a computer
You can edit imported movies on a computer.
x Exporting movies from your computer to your camcorder
You can export movies that have been imported to a computer from your camcorder, back to your camcorder.
Hard disk: Disc volume required for installation: Approximately 350 MB Display: DirectX 7 or later-compatible video card, Minimum dots, High Color (16 bit color) Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard), DV Interface (IEEE1394, i.LINK) (to connect via an i.LINK cable), disc drive (You need a CD-ROM drive to install the Picture Motion Browser.)
Operations are not guaranteed on all the recommended environments. For example, other open or background applications running on currently may limit product performance.

Ambient temperature is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough. This is not a malfunction. Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, the battery may be wornout. Replace it with a new one (p. 11, 59).
Dots in lines appear on the LCD screen.
This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded.

Cassette tapes

The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment.
Make sure the power source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 11). Moisture condensation has occurred inside the camcorder (p. 61).

LCD screen/viewfinder

A rippling effect appears on the LCD screen when you touch it.
This is not a malfunction. Do not press hard on the LCD screen.
Troubleshooting (Continued)
The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a cassette with Cassette Memory.
This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory, so the indicator does not appear.
Avoid stopping then recording a movie in the LP mode.

[END SCH] does not work.

Do not eject the cassette after recording (p. 24). There is nothing recorded on the cassette. There is a blank section between recorded sections of the tape. This is not a malfunction.
The remaining tape indicator is not displayed.
Set [ REMAIN] to [ON] to always display the remaining tape indicator (p. 40).
The auto focus does not function.
Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 28). The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 28).
The cassette is noisier during rewinding or fast-forwarding.
When using the AC Adaptor, rewind/fast forward speed increases (compared with battery operation) and therefore increases noise. This is not a malfunction.
[STEADYSHOT] does not function.
Set [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 37).
The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA lamp (p. 19). The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette. Set the write-protect tab to REC or insert a new cassette (p. 58). The tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette (p. 61).

You cannot play back a tape.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp (p. 22). Rewind the tape (p. 22).
Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices
Time code and other information appear on the display of the connected device.
Set [DISP OUT] to [LCD] while connected with an A/V connecting cable (p. 41).
Horizontal lines appear on the picture. The displayed pictures are not clear or do not appear.
You cannot dub correctly using the A/V connecting cable.
The A/V connecting cable is not connected properly. Make sure that the A/V connecting cable is connected to the input jack of another device for dubbing a picture from your camcorder (p. 42).
Functions that cannot be used together
Depending on the functions, you may not be able to use them together. The following list shows examples of functions that cannot be used at the same time.
Not available If this function is set
New sound added to a recorded tape is not heard.
Adjust [AUDIO MIX] until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 34).
BACK LIGHT [SPOT FOCUS] [SCENE SEL.] [EXPOSURE] [WHT BAL]
[SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] [SCENE SEL.] NightShot plus NightShot plus NightShot plus
[SPOT METER] NightShot plus
Pictures from connected devices are not displayed correctly.
The input signal is not NTSC (p. 57).

Connecting to a computer

The computer does not recognize your camcorder.
Install the Picture Motion Browser (p. 47). The computer may not recognize your camcorder for a few moments after you connect it. Wait for a while. 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.
You cannot install the supplied software, Picture Motion Browser, on a Macintosh computer.
You can install Picture Motion Browser only on a Windows computer.
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 (H series). Use an InfoLITHIUM battery pack (H series) (p. 59). Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack of your camcorder securely (p. 11). them of the 5-digit code, which starts from E.
E (Battery level warning)

x When not using your camcorder for a long time Remove the cassette and store it.

Gold-plated connector

About the InfoLITHIUM battery pack
This unit is compatible with an InfoLITHIUM battery pack (H series). Your camcorder operates only with an InfoLITHIUM battery pack. InfoLITHIUM H series battery packs have the mark.
What is an InfoLITHIUM battery pack?
An InfoLITHIUM battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between your camcorder and an optional AC Adaptor/ charger. The InfoLITHIUM battery pack calculates the power consumption according to the operating conditions of your camcorder, and displays the remaining battery time in minutes.
Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FH70/ FH100 (optional). Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent playback, fast forward or rewind operation wears out the battery pack faster. We recommend using a large capacity battery pack: NP-FH70/FH100 (optional). Be sure to set the POWER switch to OFF(CHG) when not recording or playing back on your camcorder. The battery pack is also consumed when your camcorder is in recording standby or playback pause. Have spare battery packs ready for two or three times the expected recording time, and make trial recordings before making the actual recording. Do not expose the battery pack to water. The battery pack is not water resistant.
About the remaining battery time indicator
When the power goes off even though the remaining battery time indicator indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate, charge the battery pack fully again. Remaining battery time will be indicated correctly. Note, however, that the battery indication will not be restored if it is used in high temperatures for a long time, or if left in a fully charged state, or when the battery pack is frequently used. Use the remaining battery time indication as a rough guide only. The E mark that indicates low battery flashes even if there are still 5 to 10 minutes of battery time remaining, depending on the operating conditions or ambient temperature.
To charge the battery pack
Be sure to charge the battery pack before you start using your camcorder. We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of between 10 C to 30 C (50 F to 86 F) until the CHG (charge) lamp turns off. If you charge the battery pack outside of this temperature range, you may not be able to charge it efficiently. When charging the battery pack while the AC Adaptor is connected to your camcorder, after charging is complete, disconnect the cable from the DC IN jack on your camcorder or remove the battery pack.
About storage of the battery pack
If the battery pack is not used for a long time, fully charge the battery pack and use it up on your camcorder once a year to maintain proper function. To store the battery pack, remove it from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool place. To discharge the battery pack on your camcorder completely, set [A.SHUT OFF] to [NEVER] on the (OTHERS) menu and leave your camcorder in tape recording standby until the power goes off (p. 41).

Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft cloth in the following instances: When there are fingerprints on the lens surface. In hot or humid locations When the lens is exposed to salty air such as at the seaside. Store in a well-ventilated location subject to little dirt or dust. To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as described above. It is recommended that you operate your camcorder about once a month to keep it in optimum state for a long time.
3 Remove dust from the eyecup block with a camera blower, etc.
4 Press the viewfinder onto the body of the camcorder. 5 Remove dust from the inside area where the eyecup block was attached with a camera blower, etc.
6 Attach the eyecup block to the viewfinder, pushing it straight on until it clicks.

Specifications

System
Video recording system 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Audio recording system Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1, stereo 2), 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) Video signal NTSC color, EIA standards Usable cassette Mini DV cassette with the mark printed Tape speed SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/s Recording/playback time SP: 60 min (using a DVM60 cassette) LP: 90 min (using a DVM60 cassette) Fast forward/rewind time Approx. 2 min 40 s (using a DVM60 cassette and rechargeable battery pack) Approx. 1 min 45 s (using a DVM60 cassette and AC Adaptor) Viewfinder Electric viewfinder (color) Image device 3.0 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. pixels Effective (movie): Approx. pixels Lens Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 40 (Optical), (Digital) Focal length f=1.9 ~ 76 mm (3/32 ~ 3 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA: 36 ~ mm (1 7/16 ~ 56 3/4 in.) F1.8 ~ 4.1 Filter diameter: 30 mm (1 3/16 in.)
The eyecup block is a precision part. Do not disassemble it further. Do not touch the lens of the eyecup block.
On charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery
Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable battery to retain the date, time, and other settings even when the POWER switch is set to OFF(CHG). The preinstalled rechargeable battery is always charged while your camcorder is connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor or while the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months if you do not use your camcorder at all without the AC Adaptor connected or the battery pack attached. Use your camcorder after charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery. However, even if the pre-installed rechargeable battery is not charged, the camcorder operation will not be affected as long as you are not recording the date. x Procedures Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave it with the POWER switch set to OFF(CHG) for more than 24 hours.
Color temperature [AUTO], [ONE PUSH], [INDOOR] (K), [OUTDOOR] (K) Minimum illumination 5 lx (lux) (F 1.8) 0 lx (lux) (during NightShot plus function)

Input/Output connectors

Audio/Video output 10-pin connector Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms) Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms) Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 (ohms) 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)
Storage temperature -20 C to + 60 C (-4 F to + 140 F) Dimensions (approx.) 114 mm (2 1/3/1/2 in.) (w/h/d) including the projecting parts 115 mm (2 1/3/5/8 in.) (w/h/d) including the projecting parts with supplied battery pack NP-FH30 attached Mass (approx.) 390 g (13 oz) main unit only 450 g (15 oz) including the NP-FH30 rechargeable battery pack and DVM60 cassette. Supplied accessories See page 10.

AC Adaptor AC-L200/L200B

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.) 81 mm (1 15/3/1/4 in.) (w/h/d) excluding the projecting parts Mass (approx.) 170 g (6.0 oz) excluding the power cord * See the label on the AC Adaptor for

other specifications.

Picture 6.2 cm (2.5 type) Total dot number (560 220)

General

Power requirements DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor) Average power consumption During camera recording using the viewfinder 1.8 W During camera recording using the LCD 2.1 W Operating temperature 0 C to 40 C (32 F to 104 F)
Specifications (Continued)
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FH30)
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
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

On trademarks

Handycam and are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. InfoLITHIUM is a trademark of Sony Corporation. i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony Corporation. is a trademark. Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S. Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. Pentium is a trademark or registered trademark of Intel Corporation. Adobe and Adobe Reader are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. All other product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Furthermore, and are not mentioned in each case in this manual.

DCR-HC38

MiniDV Handycam Camcorder

PRELIM

Simple controls and crystal clear quality let you call the shots with the DCR-HC38. Features like Super Steady Shot image stabilization and NightShot Plus technology make sure your video looks stunning and clean as you record to a MiniDV cassette (sold separately).
1/6" Advanced HAD CCD Imager, 680K Pixels Gross 1/6" Advanced HAD (Hole Accumulation Diode) CCD with 340K (effective) pixels provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (up to 500 lines of horizontal resolution) and still image performance. MiniDV Recording Offers up to 500 lines of horizontal resolution, 3X the color bandwidth and a significantly higher signal/noise ratio, to provide spectacular video performance. 40X Optical/2000X Digital Zoom The optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, the Digital Zoom Interpolation means that extreme digital zooming is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zooms. Professional Quality Carl ZeissVarioTessarLens Carl Zeiss lenses have an advanced optical multi-layer coating that offers less glare and flare with increased contrast. This results in vivid image brilliance, true-to-life color saturation and perfect renditions of subtle tones. Super SteadyShotPicture Stabilization System Picture stabilization system that uses motion sensors to detect and compensate for camera "shake" without compromising picture quality like some other digital stabilization systems. 2.5" Touch Panel SwivelScreen LCD Display4 (123K Pixels) Provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The high resolution 123K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback. USB Streaming5 Stay connected to family and friends by broadcasting live video with audio over the internet using the USB interface. You can even playback your favorite recorded scene on the camcorder's tape. It's like having your own video conferencing system6. i.LINKDV Interface1 A digital high-speed bi-directional interface which provides Audio/Video communication between two compatible devices. This connection allows for pure digital transfer between devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, such as camcorders, digital VTRs, capture cards and PCs. InfoLithiumBattery with AccuPower Meter System Charge the battery at anytime because unlike NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries, Sony's rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries are not subject to a life shortening "memory effect". Sony's exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes, in either the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. NightShotPlus Infrared System With Sony's NightShot Plus Infrared System you can capture natural looking video, even when shooting in low light. Record subjects up to 10 feet away using the built-in infrared system, but without the overall monochrome color common with earlier low-light recording systems. Manual Focus Allows the user to manually adjust the focus of the camcorder using the touch panel. Manual focusing also allows the user to control the focus in difficult situations where either the environment or the subject does not allow the camcorder's auto focus to perform optimally, such as when shooting through a window or in a crowded environment. On Screen Zoom and Record Controls For additional control of the camcorder, the DCR-HC38 features Zoom and Record buttons on the frame of the LCD screen. This allows the user more flexibility when holding the camcorder, especially in overhead or low angle shots. StaminaBattery Power Management System Using the optional NP-FH1000 InfoLithium Battery, the DCR-HC38 can continuously record for upto 14 hours (viewfinder) or up to 12 hours (LCD) on a single full charge, providing extra long battery life 2. Scene Selection Modes Scene Selection modes make recording easy even when filming in challenging situations. Choose from Beach, Candle, Fireworks, Landscape, Portrait, Sports Lesson, Spotlight, and Sunrise & Sunset. Picture Effects Get creative when recording or playing back your videos with Sony's Picture Effect Modes. Effects available in Camera mode: Mosaic and Pastel. Effects available in Playback mode: Monotone, Negative Art, Sepia and Solarize. Easy Handycam Button Using a camcorder can be intimidating for some people, so with a press of the Easy Handycam button, most of the advanced features of the camcorder are "locked out" leaving only the buttons essential for recording operational. ADDITIONAL FEATURES Fader Effects Battery Information Picture Motion Browser Software Multi-Language Menu

Step-up

Specifications

General

Imaging Device: 1/6" CCD Pixel Gross: 680K Recording Media: MiniDV Cassette Recording and Playback Times: SP: 60 min., LP: 90 min. Video Actual: 340K Pixels Still Actual: 340K Pixels
Shutter Speed: Auto, 1/60 - 1/4000 (Scene Selection Mode) Optical Zoom: 40X Digital Zoom: 2000X
Power Consumption: 1.8W/2.1W (VF/LCD) Battery Type: InfoLithium with AccuPower Meter System (NP-FH30) Power Requirements: 7.2V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)

Convenience

USB Streaming: Yes SteadyShot Image Stabilization: Yes (Super; Electronic) Accessory Shoe: N/A White Balance: Auto, Indoor, One-push, Outdoor Memory Stick PRO Media Compatibility: N/A Still Image Mode(s): JPEG Minimum Illumination: 5 Lux (0 Lux with NightShot Plus Infrared System) Low Light Capability: NightShot Plus system
Service and Warranty Information
Limited Warranty: 1 Year Parts; 90 Days Labor

Software

Operating System Compatibility: Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, XP Home, XP Professional Supplied Software: Picture Motion Browser ver. 2.0
Video Recording System: 2 Rotary Heads, Helical Scanning System Video Signal System: NTSC color, EIA standards Analog-to-Digital Converter: N/A

Convenience Features

Easy Operation: Yes Fader Effects: Black, Monotone, Mosaic, White Multiple Language Display: Yes Remote Control: N/A Slide Show Mode: N/A Titling: Yes (must use cassette with memory) Light/Flash: N/A Movie Mode(s): MPEG Scene Mode(s): Beach, Candle, Landscape, Portrait, Sports Lesson, Snow, Spotlight, Sunrise & Sunset and Twilight Picture Effect(s): Monotone, Mosaic, Negative Art, Pastel, Sepia, Solarization Digital Picture Effect(s): N/A PictBridge Compatible: N/A

Dimensions

Weight: 15 oz (450 g) with Tape and Battery Measurements: 2 1/2" x 3 3/8" x 4 5/8" (63 x 85 x 115mm)

Supplied Accessories

Power Adapter/ In-Camera Charger (AC-L200) InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery (NP-FH30) Stereo AV Cable Application Software Enjoy Handycam DVD

Optional Accessories

High Grade A/V Cable with S-Video (VMC-30FS) Carrying Case (LCS-VA30) Soft Carrying Case (LCS-VAC) Lightweight Tripod (VCT-R100) Pocket Tripod (VCT-MTK) UPC Code: 027242701809

Inputs and Outputs

LANC Terminal: N/A Analog Audio/Video Input(s): N/A Analog Audio/Video Output(s): Yes (Multi A/V) Digital Audio/Video Input(s): Yes (via i.LINK)1 Digital Audio/Video Output(s): Yes (via i.LINK)1 USB Port(s): Yes (1.1 compliant) i.LINK Interface: Yes1 Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s): N/A Headphone Jack: N/A Microphone Input: N/A S-Video Input(s): N/A S-Video Output(s): Yes (optional accessory)

Hardware

LCD: 2.5" (123K Pixels) SwivelScreen LCD Display4 Lens Type: Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar Viewfinder: Color (123K Pixels) Docking Station: N/A Microphone: Yes (Built-in; Stereo)
1. i.LINK is a trademark of Sony, used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connector. All products with an IEEE1394 connector may not communicate with each other. 2. Actual battery life may vary based on product settings, usage patterns and environmental conditions. Designed for use with compatible Sony InfoLithium batteries. 4. Viewable area measured diagonally. 5. Not all products with USB connectors may communicate with each other due to chipset variations. 6. A broadband connection is required along with third party services, which may require a subscription fee and/or other service fees. 2007 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Sony, AccuPower, Advanced HAD, Handycam, i.LINK, InfoLithium, like.no.other, Memory Stick, the Memory Stick logo, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, NightShot, Remote Commander, Stamina, SteadyShot and SwivelScreen are trademarks of Sony. Carl Zeiss and Vario-Sonnar are trademarks of Carl Zeiss. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. Features and specifications subject to change without notice. Non-metric weights and measures are approximate and may vary. Screen Image Simulated

Optics/Lens

35mm Equivalent: 39 - 1560mm (4:3 Camera Mode), 39 - 1440mm (16:9 Camera Mode) Aperture: f1.8 - 4.1 Exposure: Touch Panel (24 steps) Filter Diameter: 30mm Focal Distance: 1.9 - 76mm Focus: Full Range Auto, Manual (Touch Panel) Progressive Shutter Mode: N/A

Please visit the Dealer Network for more information at www.sony.com/dn
Sony Electronics Inc. 16530 Via Esprillo San Diego, CA 92127 1.800.222.7669 www.sony.com

Last Updated: 12/19/2006