3-087-414-11 (1)

Digital Video Camera Recorder

Operating Instructions

Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference.

Owners Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.
Model No. DCR-VX2100 Serial No. Model No. ACSerial No.

DCR-VX2100

2003 Sony Corporation

Welcome!

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Digital Handycam camcorder. With your Digital Handycam, you can capture lifes precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Digital Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come.

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

Memory Stick

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
For the customers in the U.S.A.
If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222SONY (7669) The number below is for the FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the products enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
Trade Name: Model No.: Responsible Party: Address: SONY DCR-VX2100 Sony Electronics Inc. 680 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell, NJ07649 U.S.A Telephone No.: 201-930-6972 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION

You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.
Notice If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the i.LINK cable again.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Note on cassette memory

Your camcorder is based on the DV format. You can only use mini DV cassettes with your camcorder. We recommend that you use a tape with cassette memory. The functions which require different operations depending on whether or not the tape has cassette memory are: Searching the end point of the recording end search (p. 26,30) Searching a recording by index index search (p. 65) Searching a recording by date date search (p. 68) Searching for a photo photo search (p. 70). The functions you can operate only with cassette memory are: Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title title search (p. 67) Superimposing a title (p. 99) Making your own titles (p. 103) Labeling a cassette (p. 105). For details, see page 144. You see this mark in the introduction of the features that are operated only with cassette memory. (Cassette Memory). Tapes with cassette memory are marked with
Using this manual Note on TV color systems
TV color systems differ by country or region. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.

Getting Started

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.
Precautions on camcorder care
Lens and LCD screen/finder
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 directly shoot the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun in low light conditions such as dusk. 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 60 C (140 F), 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].

OFF CAMERA

Note on the recording mode Your camcorder records and plays back in SP (standard play) mode and in LP (long play) mode. Select SP or LP in the menu settings. In LP mode, you can record 1.5 times as long as in SP mode. When you record a tape on your camcorder in LP mode, we recommend playing the tape on your camcorder.

Recording Basics

Note on the LOCK switch When you slide the LOCK switch to the left, the POWER switch can no longer be set to MEMORY accidentally. The LOCK switch is set to the right as a default setting. We recommend that you set the LOCK switch to the left when you record on a cassette. Note on the progressive recording mode If you intend to use the images on your PC or play the images back as still images, we recommend that you set PROG. SCAN to ON in the menu settings before shooting (p. 34). The picture quality may improve in this mode, but if you shoot a moving subject, the image may shake when it is played back. To enable smooth transition Transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene is smooth as long as you do not eject the cassette even if you turn off your camcorder. When you use a tape with cassette memory, however, you can make the transition smooth even after ejecting the cassette if you use the end search function (p. 26). However, check the following: When you change the battery pack, set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Do not mix recordings in the SP mode and ones in the LP mode on one tape. Note on tape transition The playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly between scenes when: You change the recording mode (SP/LP). You record in LP mode. If you leave your camcorder in standby mode for five minutes while the cassette is inserted Your camcorder automatically turns off. This is to prevent tape wear and save battery power. To resume the standby mode, set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), and to CAMERA again. When a cassette is not inserted, your camcorder does not turn off.
Recording a picture Adjusting the LCD screen
The LCD panel is opened up to 90 degrees and it rotates about 90 degrees to the viewfinder side and about 180 degrees to the lens side. If you turn the LCD panel over so that it faces the other way in standby or recording mode, the indicator appears on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder (Mirror mode).

Playing back a tape Various playback modes
To operate video control buttons, set the POWER switch to VCR.
To view a still picture (playback pause)
Press X during playback. To resume normal playback, press N or X.

To advance the tape

Press M in stop mode. To resume normal playback, press N.

To rewind the tape

Press m in stop mode. To resume normal playback, press N.
To change the playback direction
Press on the Remote Commander during playback to reverse the playback direction. To resume normal playback, press N.
To locate a scene monitoring the picture (picture search)
Keep pressing m or M during playback. To resume normal playback, release the button.
To monitor the picture at high-speed while advancing or rewinding the tape (skip scan)
Keep pressing m while rewinding or M while advancing the tape. To resume rewinding or advancing, release the button.
To view the picture at slow speed (slow playback)
Press y during playback. For slow playback in the reverse direction, press Remote Commander, then press y. To resume normal playback, press N. on the
To view the picture at double speed
Press 2 on the Remote Commander during playback. For double speed playback in the reverse direction, press , then press 2 on the Remote Commander. To resume normal playback, press N.
To view the picture frame-by-frame
Press C on the Remote Commander in playback pause mode. For frame-by-frame playback in the reverse direction, press c. To resume normal playback, press N.
To search the last scene recorded (END SEARCH)
Press END SEARCH in stop mode. The last five seconds of the recorded portion plays back and stops. In various playback modes Sound is muted. The previous picture may remain as a mosaic image during playback. When the playback pause mode lasts for five minutes Your camcorder automatically enters the stop mode. To resume playback, press N. Slow playback Slow playback can be performed smoothly on your camcorder, however, this function does not work for a signal output through the DV Interface. When you play back a tape in reverse Horizontal noise may appear at the center, or the top and bottom of the screen. This is not a malfunction. If you insert the cassette recorded in a PAL system The camcorder automatically identify the system, and playback starts. You can only view the picture on your camcorder. (Quasi PAL playback)

Recording a still image on a tape Tape Photo recording Self-timer tape photo recording
You can make a tape photo recording with the self-timer. This mode is useful when you want to record yourself. You can also use the Remote Commander.
(1) Press (self-timer) in standby mode. The (self-timer) indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. (2) Press PHOTO deeply. Self-timer starts counting down from 10 with a beep sound. In the last two seconds of the countdown, the beep sound gets faster, then recording starts automatically.
Advanced Recording Operations
To cancel self-timer recording Press (self-timer) so that the indicator disappears from the LCD or viewfinder screen while your camcorder is in standby mode. You cannot cancel the self-timer recording using the Remote Commander. Note The self-timer recording mode is automatically canceled when: Self-timer tape photo recording is finished. The POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG) or VCR.
Shooting with all the pixels PROG. SCAN
To import moving images to your PC to view still images, we recommend you record in progressive recording mode. To use progressive recording mode, follow the procedure below. Still images produced this way are more stable than those recorded on tapes in normal mode, and thus are more suitable for analyzing high-speed action such as sports scenes. (Since this camcorder takes in an image every 1/15 of a second in progressive recording mode, moving images recorded in this mode may be subject to too much jitter. To view moving images, we recommend recording in normal mode.)
Press MENU to display the menu in standby mode. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select PROG. SCAN, then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. Press MENU to erase the menu display. The PROG. SCAN indicator lights up.
MANUAL SET AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN
MANUAL SET AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN RETURN

OFF ON

PROG. SCAN
[MENU] : END MANUAL SET AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN RETURN [MENU] : END
To return to normal recording mode
Select OFF in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. Note on the progressive recording mode A normal TV broadcast divides the screen into two finer fields and displays them in turns every 1/60 of a second (Interlace format). Thus, the actual image displayed in an instant covers only half of the apparent image area. Displaying the whole image simultaneously on a full screen is called displaying with all the pixels. In this mode, the resolution of the still picture is clearer than in the normal mode. This camcorder takes in an image every 1/15 of a second, which may cause the image of a moving object to go out of focus. This camcorder is originally programed to record in the normal TV format. When shooting under fluorescent light When shooting in progressive recording mode under fluorescent light or light bulbs, a rare phenomenon may happen in which the screen lights up brightly (Flicker phenomenon). This is not a malfunction. If you want to stop this phenomenon, set PROG. SCAN to OFF in the menu settings. In the progressive recording mode You cannot use the following operations: Digital zooming Wide mode

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 the S video cable (optional) to the S video jacks on both your camcorder and the TV or the VCR. This connection produces higher quality DV format pictures. If you use a LANC cable You can edit precisely by connecting a LANC cable (optional) to this camcorder and other video equipment having a fine synchro-editing function, using this camcorder as a player.

Using an i.LINK cable

Simply connect the i.LINK cable (optional) to DV Interface and to DV Interface of the DV products. With a digital-to-digital connection, video and audio signals are transmitted in digital form for high-quality editing. You cannot dub the titles, display indicators or the contents of cassette memory.

Editing

(1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert the recorded tape into your camcorder. (2) Set the input selector on the VCR to the DV input position if the VCR is equipped with an input selector. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the VCR. (3) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (4) Play back the recorded tape on your camcorder. (5) Start recording on the VCR.

DV Interface

i.LINK
i.LINK cable (optional) : Signal flow
When you have finished dubbing a tape
Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR. You can connect one VCR only using the i.LINK cable Pictures processed by the digital effect or picture effect function Pictures processed by the digital effect or picture effect function are not output through the DV Interface. If you record a playback pause picture with the DV Interface The recorded picture becomes rough. And when you play back the picture using other video equipment, the picture may jitter.
Dubbing only desired scenes Digital program editing
You can duplicate selected scenes (programs) for editing onto a tape without operating the VCR. Scenes can be selected by frame.
[a] Undesired frame [b]Moves the scene
Before operating the digital program editing
Preparation 1 Connecting the VCR (p. 74, 75). Preparation 2 Setting the VCR to operate by infrared rays emitter (p. 77)/Setting the VCR to operate with an i.LINK cable (p. 81). Preparation 3 Adjusting the synchronization of the VCR (p. 82). When you dub using the same VCR again, you can skip Preparations 2 and 3.

OTHERS ED I T SET CONTROL ADJ TEST RETURN EXECUTE CUTI N CUTOUT I R SETUP ENGAGE PAUSEMODE REC PAUSE I R TEST OTHERS RETURN ED I T SET CONTROL [MENU] : END ADJ TEST EXECUT I NG CUTI N CUTOUT No. 2 IN I R SETUP PAUSEMODE +215 I R TEST OTHERS RETURN ED I T SET [MENU] : CONTROL END ADJ TEST COMPLETE CUTI N CUTOUT I R SETUP PAUSEMODE I R TEST RETURN [MENU] : END
(10)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select CUT-IN, then press the dial. (11)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the average numerical value of CUT-IN, then press the dial. The calculated start position for recording is set. (12)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select CUT-OUT, then press the dial. (13)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the average numerical value of CUT-OUT, then press the dial. The calculated stop position for recording is set. (14)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select RETURN, then press the dial.
OTHERS ED I T SET CONTROL ADJ TEST CUTI N CUTOUT I R SETUP PAUSEMODE I R TEST RETURN [MENU] : END 0 OTHERS ED I T SET CONTROL ADJ TEST CUTI N CUTOUT I R SETUP PAUSEMODE I R TEST RETURN [MENU] : END 0
OTHERS ED I T SET CONTROL ADJ TEST CUTI N CUTOUT I R SETUP PAUSEMODE I R TEST RETURN [MENU] : END OTHERS ED I T SET CONTROL ADJ TEST CUTI N CUTOUT I R SETUP PAUSEMODE I R TEST RETURN [MENU] : END
Errors in editing If you connect your camcorder to Sony equipment with the DV jack, the range of errors is within +/ 5 frames. The range may become wider in the following conditions: The interval between CUT-IN and CUT-OUT is less than five seconds (p. 84). CUT-IN or CUT-OUT is set at the beginning of the tape. When ENGAGE REC PAUSE appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder Turn the recording VCR to recording pause mode. Note 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 lead before starting the recording.
If the VCR does not operate correctly Make sure the IR SETUP code is correct; reset if necessary. When the operations of the VCR do not work with an i.LINK cable Keep the i.LINK connection, and carry out Preparation 2 (p. 77) again. The audio and video signals are sent as digital signals.
Operation 1: Making Programs

POWER switch CAMERA CAMERA
Icon/item FRAME REC INT. REC

HiFi SOUND

Mode z OFF ON ON z OFF SET z STEREO 1

AUDIO MIX

Meaning Does not make a cut recording. Makes a cut recording (p. 62). Makes an interval recording (p. 60). Does not make an interval recording. Sets the interval time and recording time. To play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape with main and sub sound (p. 145). To play back a stereo tape with the left sound or a dual sound 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 (p. 97).

ST1 A/VtDV OUT z OFF

ST2 VCR

LCD B. L.

LCD COLOR
To output analog images in digital format using your camcorder. To output digital images in analog format ON using your camcorder. z BRT NORMAL To set the brightness on the LCD screen to normal. To brighten the LCD screen. BRIGHT To adjust the color on the LCD screen with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. To get highintensity
VCR CAMERA MEMORY VCR CAMERA MEMORY
To get lowintensity VF B.L.
z BRT NORMAL To set the brightness on the viewfinder screen to normal. To brighten the viewfinder screen. BRIGHT Does not display the guide frame. GUIDEFRAME z OFF Displays the guide frame (p. 35). ON
VCR CAMERA MEMORY CAMERA MEMORY
Notes on LCD B.L. and VF B.L. When you select BRIGHT, battery life is reduced a little during recording. When you use power sources other than the battery pack, BRIGHT is automatically selected.
(continued on the following page)

POWER switch MEMORY

Icon/item Mode CONTINUOUS z OFF ON MULTI SCRN QUALITY z SUPER FINE (SFN) FINE (FINE) STANDARD (STD) PRINT MARK z OFF ON PROTECT z OFF ON
SLIDE SHOW DELETE ALL FORMAT

z RETURN OK

PHOTO SAVE
Meaning Not to record continuously. To record four images continuously (p. 122). To record nine images continuously (p. 122). To record still images in the super fine image quality mode, using a Memory Stick (p. 119). To record still images in the fine image quality mode, using a Memory Stick (p. 119). To record still images in the standard image quality mode, using a Memory Stick (p. 119). To erase print marks on still images. To write a print mark on the recorded still images you want to print out later. To release protection from still images. To protect selected still images against accidental erasure (p. 139). To play back all the images as a slide show (p. 138). To delete all unprotected images (p. 141). To cancel formatting. To format an inserted Memory Stick. 1. Select FORMAT with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. 2. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select OK, then press the dial. 3. After EXECUTE appears, press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. FORMATTING appears during formatting. COMPLETE appears when formatting is finished. To duplicate images on a tape onto a Memory Stick (p. 131).

The numbers above are as a guide.

Copyright signal

When you play back When you connect your camcorder to any other video camera recorder to dub a tape that has recorded copyright control signals for copyright protection, you may not record the tape that played back on your camcorder. When you record You cannot record software on your camcorder that contains copyright control signals for copyright protection of software. COPY INHIBIT appears on the LCD screen, in the viewfinder or on the TV screen if you try to record such software. Your camcorder does not record copyright control signals on the tape when it records.
Usable cassettes Audio mode
12-bit mode: The original sound can be recorded in stereo 1, and the new sound in stereo 2 in 32 kHz. The balance between stereo 1 and stereo 2 can be adjusted by selecting AUDIO MIX in the menu settings during playback. Both sounds can be played back. 16-bit mode: A new sound cannot be recorded but the original sound can be recorded in high quality. Moreover, it can also play back sound recorded in 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. When playing back a tape recorded in the 16-bit mode, 16BIT indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
When you play back a dual sound track tape
When you play back a dual sound track tape recorded in a stereo system, set HiFi SOUND to the desired mode in the menu settings (p. 109). Sound from speaker HiFi SOUND mode STEREO Playing back a stereo tape Stereo Left sound Right sound Playing back a dual sound track tape Main sound and sub sound Main sound Sub sound

Additional Information

You cannot record dual sound programs on your camcorder.
Notes on the mini DV cassette
When affixing a label on the mini DV cassette
Be sure to affix a label only on the locations as illustrated below [a] so as not to cause malfunction of your camcorder.
After using the mini DV cassette
Rewind the tape to the beginning, put the cassette in its case, and store it in an upright position.
If the cassette memory function does not work
Reinsert a cassette a few times. The gold-plated connector of mini DV cassettes may be dirty or dusty.

Cleaning the connector

If the gold-plated connector of mini DV cassettes is dirty or dusty, you may not operate the function using cassette memory. Clean up the gold-plated connector with cottonwool swab, about every 10 times ejection of a cassette. [b] Do not affix a label around this border.

About i.LINK

Your camcorder is equipped with the DV Interface based on i.LINK (IEEE1394) standard. This section explains the specifications and features of i.LINK. What is i.LINK? i.LINK is a digital serial interface designed to integrate the devices equipped with i.LINK connector. By connecting i.LINK devices, i.LINK allows your device to: Transmit and receive data such as digital audio and digital video signals in two ways Control other i.LINK devices Easily connect with another device using just an i.LINK cable. Your i.LINK device is capable of connecting AV devices and perform various operations and data transfer. Further availability for connections with versatile equipment and operations will be planned in the future. Other advantages include the following feature. When connecting multiple i.LINK devices, your device cannot only perform operations and data transfer with the directly connected device but also perform them with any of the devices that are connected via other devices. Therefore, you will not need to concern the order of connecting devices. However, depending on the features and specifications of the connected devices, you may need to operate certain functions differently or may not be able to perform certain operations or data transfer. Note Your camcorder can be connected to one device with the i.LINK cable. When you connect with a device that has two or more i.LINK connectors, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the connected device. Tips i.LINK, a nickname for IEEE 1394 that Sony proposed, is a trademark supported by a majority of companies worldwide. IEEE 1394 is an international standard defined by IEEE, The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. About data transfer speed of i.LINK i.LINK defines a maximum data transfer speed of approximately 100, 200 and 400 Mbps* that are described as S100, S200 and S400 respectively. For i.LINK devices, a maximum data transfer speed that the device supports is identified on Specifications page of the operating instructions supplied with the device or near its i.LINK connector. With a device that does not identify the data transfer speed, the maximum data transfer speed that the device supports is S100. When connecting with the device that support different data transfer speed, the actual data transfer speed may be different from those described on the i.LINK connectors. *What is Mbps? Mega bits per second. A measure of the rate at which data is transmitted per second. In case of 100 Mbps, 100 Mega bits of data can be transmitted per second.

c Disconnect the power cord of the AC Adaptor or remove the battery, then reconnect it after about one minute. Turn the power on. If the functions still do not work, press the RESET button located at the lower-right of the ZEBRA selector using a sharp-pointed object. (If you press the RESET button, all the settings including the date and time return to the default.) (p. 13, 165)

Self-diagnosis display

Your camcorder has a self-diagnosis display function. This function displays the current condition of your camcorder as a 5-digit code (a combination of a letter and figures) on the LCD screen, display window, or in the viewfinder. If a 5-digit code is displayed, check the following code chart. The last two digits (indicated by ss) will differ depending on the state of your camcorder.
On the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, on the display window

C:21:00

Self-diagnosis display C:ss:ss You can service your camcorder yourself. E:ss:ss Contact your Sony dealer or nearest local authorized Sony service facility. Five-digit display C:04:ss C:21:ss Cause and/or Corrective Actions You are using a battery pack that is not an InfoLITHIUM battery pack. c Use an InfoLITHIUM battery pack. (p. 10) Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclimatize. (p. 158) The video heads are dirty. c Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL cleaning cassette (optional). (p. 159) A malfunction other than the above. c Remove the cassette and insert it again, then operate your camcorder. c Disconnect the power cord of the AC Adaptor or remove the battery pack. After reconnecting the power source, operate your camcorder. A malfunction that you cannot service has occurred. c Contact your Sony dealer and inform them of the 5-digit code. (example: E:61:10)

C:22:ss

C:31:ss C:32:ss

E:61:ss E:62:ss

If you are unable to rectify the problem even if you try corrective actions a few times, contact your Sony dealer or nearest local authorized Sony service facility.
Warning indicators and messages
If indicators and messages appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, check the following: See the page in parentheses ( ) for more information.

Maintenance information and precautions Removing Dust from Inside the Viewfinder
(1) While holding down the hook 1, slide the viewfinder in the direction of the arrow and remove it out 2. (2) Clean the surface with a commercially available blower.
To reattach the viewfinder
Do step 1 above sliding the viewfinder in the reverse direction of the arrow.

Maintenance information

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 do not appear. the x indicator and CLEANING CASSETTE message appear one after another on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. If the above problem, [a] or [b] occurs, clean the video heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM12CL cleaning cassette (optional). Check the picture and if the above problem persists, repeat cleaning.

Cleaning the LCD screen

If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen dirty, we recommend using a LCD Cleaning Cloth (optional) to clean the LCD screen.
Maintenance information and precautions Charging the built-in rechargeable battery
Your camcorder has a built-in rechargeable battery so that the date, time and other settings are retained even when the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG). The built-in rechargeable battery is always charged as long as you are using your camcorder. The battery, however, will get discharged gradually if you do not use your camcorder. It will be completely discharged in about four months if you do not use your camcorder at all. Even if the built-in rechargeable battery is not charged, it will not affect your camcorder operation. To retain the date and time, etc., charge the battery if the battery is discharged. Charging the built-in rechargeable battery Connect your camcorder to the house current using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder, and leave your camcorder with the POWER switch set to OFF (CHG) for more than 24 hours. Or install the fully charged rechargeable battery pack on your camcorder, and leave your camcorder with the POWER switch set to OFF (CHG) for more than 24 hours.

Precautions

Camcorder operation
Operate your camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC 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 (CHG) 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 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.

Notes on dry batteries

To avoid possible damage from battery leakage or corrosion, observe the following: Be sure to insert the batteries with the + polarities matched to the + marks. Dry batteries are not rechargeable. Do not use a combination of new and old batteries. Do not use different types of batteries. Current flows from batteries when you are not using them for a long time. Do not use leaking batteries. If batteries are leaking Wipe off the liquid in the battery compartment carefully before replacing the batteries. If you touch the liquid, wash it off with water. If the liquid get into your eyes, wash your eyes with a lot of water and then consult a doctor. If any problem occurs, unplug your camcorder and contact your nearest Sony dealer.

Specifications

Video camera recorder
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 (Fs48 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 (using cassette DVM60) SP: 1 h LP: 1.5 h Fast-forward/rewind time (using cassette DVM60) Approx. 2 min and 30 s Viewfinder Electric viewfinder (color) Image device 1/3 type CCD (3 Charge Coupled Device) Approx. pixels (Effective: Approx. pixels) Lens Combined power zoom lens Filter diameter 58 mm (2 3/8 in) 12 (Optical), 48 (Digital) F1.6 - 2.4 Focal length 6 - 72 mm (1/4 - 2 7/8 in) When converted to a 35 mm still camera 43.2 - 518.4 mm (1 3/4 - 20 1/2 in) Color temperature Auto, nIndoor (K), Outdoor (K), Minimum illumination 1 lux (F1.6) Input/Output connectors S video input/output Input/output auto switch 4-pin mini DIN Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced Video input/output Input/output auto switch RCA pin-jack, 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced Audio input/output Input/output auto switch RCA pin-jack, 327 mV, (at output impedance more than 47 kilohms) Output impedance with less than 2.2 kilohms Input impedance more than 47 kilohms Headphones jack Stereo minijack ( 3.5 mm) LANC control jack Stereo mini-minijack ( 2.5 mm) MIC jack Minijack, 0.388 mV low impedance with 2.5 to 3.0 V DC, output impedance 6.8 kilohms ( 3.5 mm) Stereo type DV Interface 4-pin connector Speaker Dynamic speaker ( 20 mm) LCD screen Picture 6.2cm (2.5 type) Total dot number (960 220) General Power requirements 7.2 V (battery pack) 8.4 V (AC Adaptor) Average power consumption (when using the battery pack) During camera recording using LCD 4.7 W Viewfinder 4.0 W 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.) 393 mm (4 3/3/1/2 in) (w/h/d) Mass (approx.) 1.5 kg (3 lb 6 oz) including the hood with a lens cap 1.6 kg (3 lb 9 oz) including the rechargeable battery pack, NP-F330 and cassette DVM60 Supplied accessories See page 8.

AC Adaptor AC-L15A/L15B

Power requirements 100 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 - 0.18 A Power consumption 18 W Output voltage DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.5 A 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 projecting parts Mass (approx.) 190 g (6.7 oz) excluding power cord
Rechargeable battery pack NP-F330
Output voltage DC 7.2 V Capacity 5.0 Wh Dimensions (approx.) 38.4 20.6 70.8 mm (1 9/16 13/7/8 in) (w/h/d) Mass (approx.) 70 g (2.5 oz) Type Lithium ion Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Quick Reference

Identifying the parts and controls

Camcorder

1 INDEX MARK button (p. 63) 2 Zoom ring (p. 21) 3 Focus ring (p. 59) 4 ND FILTER selector (p. 47) 5 FOCUS selector (p. 59) 6 PUSH AUTO button (p. 59) 7 FADER button (p. 39) 8 BACK LIGHT button (p. 23) 9 END SEARCH button (p. 26) 0 EDITSEARCH buttons (p. 26) qa EXPOSURE dial (p. 45) qs EXPOSURE button (p. 45) qd Display window (p. 171) qf OPEN button (p. 16, 27) qg SPOT LIGHT button (p. 24)

qa qs qd qf qg

These are trademarks.
Notes on the intelligent accessory shoe The intelligent accessory shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light or microphone. The intelligent accessory shoe is linked to the POWER switch, allowing you to turn the power supplied by the shoe on and off. Refer to the operating instructions of the accessory for further information. The intelligent accessory shoe has a safety device for fixing the installed accessory securely. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and then press down and pull out the accessory.
qh qj qk ql w; wa ws wd wf wg
qh Speaker qj LCD screen (p. 18) qk LCD BRIGHT buttons (p. 19) ql VOLUME buttons (p. 27) w; MEMORY PLAY button (p. 133) wa DISPLAY button (p. 28) ws MEMORY button (p. 126, 133) wd DATA CODE button (p. 28) wf TITLE button (p. 99) wg (self-timer) button (p. 25, 33, 124) wh Battery pack (p. 9) wj ZEBRA selector (p. 48) wk RESET button (p. 153) wl MEMORY INDEX button (p. 134) e; MEMORY DELETE button (p. 140) ea MEMORY + button (p. 126, 133) es MEMORY MIX button (p. 126) ed PICTURE EFFECT button (p. 40) ef DIGITAL EFFECT button (p. 42)

DCR-VX2100
Digital Handycam Camcorder

F E AT U R E S

MiniDV Recording Offers up to 530 lines of horizontal resolution, 3X color bandwidth (vs. VHS) and significantly higher S/N ratio, to provide stunning video performance. 3CCD Imaging System Each 1/3" CCD has 380,000 pixels for brilliant digital picture-quality. 530 Lines of Horizontal Video Resolution Advanced HAD Megapixel CCD technology, combined with high-quality optics provide outstanding video performance with up to 530 horizontal lines of resolution. Digital Still Memory Mode with Memory Stick Media Capture digital still images at 640 x 480 resolution, directly onto Memory Stick media for easy transfer to PCs for emailing, printing, or sharing with other compatible Memory Stick devices. Advanced HAD CCD Technology Enhanced CCD design allows more light to reach the imager which reduces video noise to improve signal-to-noise ratio by up to 6db (2x better than a standard CCD). Particularly effective when shooting in dark situations. 12X Optical/48X Digital Zoom The optical zoom helps to bring the action up close 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. Aspherical Ground Glass 58mm Lens Larger diameter allows more light to strike the Advanced HAD CCD imagers for greater detail and clarity, while the aspherical lens reduces optical distortion, and provide better corner-to-corner focus. 2.5" Precision Hybrid SwivelScreen LCD Display (211K Pixels) Provides excellent viewing clarity with improved resolution. The 211K pixel LCD display makes images sharp and detailed during playback or when monitoring recording. The Hybrid ReflectiveTransmissive LCD Screen provides accurate viewing in sunlight or bright light, virtually eliminating the wash-out common with traditional LCD Screens. Manual Zoom Ring Allows user operated manual zoom speed for more flexibility and control. Precision Color Viewfinder (180K Pixels) Increased pixel count provides more detail and clarity of video subjects. Manual Shutter Speed Gives you optimum control over the shutter speed based upon shooting environment or desired effect. Manual Exposure Dial Create your own special look by controlling the cameras exposure amount manually, allowing in less or more light for creative control. Stamina Power Management System 9 Hours (Using Optional NP-F960) The Sony DCR-VX2100 can record for up to 9 hours or playback for up to 13 hours (with LCD screen off) on a single charge with the optional NP-F960. InfoLithium Battery with AccuPower Meter System Charge the battery at any time because unlike NiCad (Nickel Cadmium) batteries Sonys rechargeable Lithium-Ion batteries are not subjected to a life shortening memory effect. Sonys exclusive AccuPower meter displays the battery time remaining in minutes, in the viewfinder or the LCD screen. Super SteadyShot Optical Stabilization System An advanced version of Sony's SteadyShot System that minimizes even high frequency shake and vibration using motion sensors and an optical active prism stabilization system, for better performance even in difficult shooting situations. i.LINK* DV Interface (IEEE1394) A high speed bi-directional digital video/audio communication between two devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VCRs, and PCs. Intelligent Accessory Shoe Provides power, on/off and special operational commands to a variety of Sony Intelligent Accessories via an 8-pin interface. This enables easy synchronized operation between the Handycam camcorder and such accessories as video lights, infrared lights and microphones without additional batteries or cables. Progressive Shutter System Mechanical shutter system that provides Progressive Scan performance while utilizing an interlace scanning system. Digital still images will be sharp and clear with excellent definition.

STEP-UP

F E AT U R E
A D D I T I O N A L F E AT U R E S
12-Bit/16-Bit PCM Digital Stereo Audio Analog-to-Digital Conversion with Pass-Through Digital Audio/Video Fader Digital Program Editing

Handle Mounted Zoom and

Recording Control
Battery* (Fully charged) Rec Time VF/LCD/VF+LCD

BATTERY LIFE

Playback Time LCD On/Off
S P E C I F I C AT I O N S
Imaging Device: 3-1/3" 380K Pixel Advanced HAD CCD Video Actual: 340K Pixels per Imager Still Actual: 340K Pixels F: 1.6 2.4 Focal Distance: 6.0 72mm 35mm Conversion: 43.2 518.4mm (Camera Mode)
43.2 518.4mm (Memory Mode) Filter Diameter: 58mm Optical Zoom: 12X Digital Zoom: 48X Focusing: Full Range Auto/Manual Ring Minimum Illumination: 1 Lux Shutter Speed: 1/4 - 1/10,000 (Manually Adjustable) Viewfinder: Precision Color (180K) LCD: 2.5" (211K) Precision Hybrid Color Accessory Shoe: Yes (Intelligent) Video Input/Output: Yes/ Yes (Phone Jack and S-Video) Audio Input/Output: Yes/Yes (Stereo, Special) i.LINK DV Interface (IEEE1394): Yes USB Terminal: N/A USB Streaming: N/A Headphone Jack: Yes Mic-Input: Yes White Balance: Auto, Outdoor, Indoor, Hold Exposure: Manual Dial (19 Steps) Power Consumption (VF/LCD/VF+LCD): 4.0W/ 4.7W/ 5.0W Dimensions (WHD): 4" x 8" x 2" (120 x 159 x 393mm)
NP-F330 80/60/60 min 85/120 NP-F550 150/130/120 min 185/225 NP-F750 315/265/250 min 375/460 NP-F960 575/480/450 min 680/830 *Results may vary depending upon conditions

min min min min

MEMORY MODE
Memory Stick Media1 Fine 640 x 480 Standard 640 x 480

8MB 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
MSA-32A/64A/128A Memory Stick Media MSA-128S2 Memory Stick Media with Memory Select Function NPF-750/950 InfoLithium Batteries ACV-400A AC Adapter/Charger VF-58CPKS Polarizing Filter Kit VCL-HG0758 Wide Angle Conversion Lens VCL-HG1758 Telephoto Conversion Lens RM-VD1 Wired Remote Control VCT-870RM Remote Control Tripod ECM-MSD1 Stereo Microphone
Weight: 3 lbs 6 oz (1.5kg) Supplied Accessories: AC-L15 Power Adaptor/ In Camera Charger, NP-F330 InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery, RMT-811 Wireless Remote Commander Remote Control, 8MB Memory Stick Media, 2AA Batteries, Stereo A/V Cable, Lens Hood, Shoulder Strap
* 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. 2003 Sony Electronics Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved. Sony, AccuPower, Advanced HAD, Handycam, i.LINK, InfoLithium, Memory Stick (word and logo), Remote Commander, Stamina, SteadyShot, SwivelScreen, and Worry Free are trademarks of Sony. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. Features and specifications subject to change without notice. Non-metric weights and measures are approximate. 1 Available storage capacity of Memory Stick media may vary. A portion of the memory is used for data management functions.