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

On recording

Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound are recorded without any problems. Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot be provided, even if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc. TV color systems differ depending on the countries/regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV. Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the copyright laws.
E:\SONY\2661355111\01US00BOOKTOC.fm

Table of Contents

Note on the icons used in this manual Features available for the HDV format only Features available for the DV format only
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS... 3 Read this first... 5
Trying out the new HDV format!... 12 Viewing video recorded in the HDV format!.. 13
Step 1: Checking supplied items.. 14 Step 2: Charging the battery pack.. 15 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly. 19 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder. 20 Step 5: Using the touch panel... 21
Changing the language setting... 21 Checking the screen indicators (Display guide).. 21
Step 6: Setting the date and time... 23 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a Memory Stick Duo.. 24
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic settings
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam).. 26

Recording/Playback

Recording.... 30 Playback... 31 Functions used for recording/playback, etc.. 32
Recording To use zoom To record high quality still images during tape recording (Dual Rec) To control the image settings manually with the dial (CAM CTRL dial/ MANUAL button) To use the flash To record in dark places (NightShot) To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects To record in mirror mode To use a tripod

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls... 127 Index.... 130
E:\SONY\2661355111\01US02HDV.fm
Trying out the new HDV format!
Shooting in the HDV format

High image quality

The HDV format has about 2 times the horizontal resolution of a standard TV resulting in about 4 times the amount of pixels providing high quality images. Being HDV format compliant, your camcorder is ready to shoot crystal clear, high-definition images.

What is the HDV format?

The HDV format is a new video format for shooting and playing back high definition images on popular DV standard cassette tapes.
Your camcorder adopts the HDV1080i specification, which utilizes 1,080 effective scanning lines, within the HDV standards, and records pictures at the image bit rate of about 25 Mbps.
1,080 effective scanning lines
These operating instructions refer to the HDV1080i format as HDV format unless there is a need to specify.
Why shoot in the HDV format?
By moving to digital video, like the rest of the world, you will be able to capture important moments in your life in high quality digital HDV format, allowing you to relive them. Your camcorders down convert function converts pictures in HDV format to SD (standard definition) quality for viewing on older wide TV formats, and on 4:3 aspect ratio TVs when a high definition TV set is not available. This provides an easy path to HDV format video.
The down convert function converts HDV format video to DV for playback or editing when your camcorder is connected to a TV or VCR that is not HDV1080i compliant. The resulting image is displayed in SD (standard definition).
Viewing video recorded in the HDV format!
Viewing on a high definition TV (p. 42)
Pictures recorded in the HDV format can be played back as crisp HD (high definition) pictures on a high definition TV.
For details on Sony HDV1080i compliant TVs, see page 113.
Viewing on a 16:9 (wide)/4:3 TV (p. 42)
Your camcorder can down convert video recorded in the HDV format to SD (standard definition) quality for playback on a conventional TV.
Dubbing to other video devices (p. 74)
Connecting to an HDV1080i device
An optional i.LINK cable allows you to copy pictures in HD (high definition) quality.
Connecting to an HDV1080i non-compliant device
Your camcorder can down convert HDV format video to SD (standard definition) quality to enable copying.
Connecting to a computer (p. 84)
Copying Memory Stick Duo still images to a computer

See page 84.

Copying movies on a tape to a computer
The computer will need to be set up differently, depending on whether HDV or DV format video is to be copied. See page 87 for details.

E:\SONY\2661355111\01US03GET.fm
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied.
The cassette tape and Memory Stick Duo are not included. See page 6, 112 and 114 for compatible cassettes and Memory Stick Duo for your camcorder.
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FP60 (1) (p. 15, 116)
Battery terminal cover (1) AC Adaptor (1) (p. 15)
Attached to the camcorder.
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Power cord (1) (p. 15)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 40)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 42, 74)
Component video cable (1) (p. 42)
USB cable (1) (p. 81, 84)
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the InfoLITHIUM battery pack (P series) (p. 116) after attaching it to your camcorder.
You cannot use the battery pack NP-FP30 with your camcorder (confirm the battery model on the back of the battery pack). If you attach it forcibly to your camcorder, the battery pack may be damaged or cannot be detached, and it may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
1 Attach the battery pack to your

camcorder.

1 Slide the BATT (battery release) lever and remove the battery terminal cover.

POWER switch

DC IN jack Jack cover DC plug To the wall outlet AC Adaptor Power cord
You can operate your camcorder connected to a power source such as a wall outlet as shown in the illustration. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case.
BATT (battery release) lever
2 Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
2 Slide the POWER switch in the
direction of the arrow to OFF (CHG) (The default setting).
4 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor and the wall outlet. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged.
5 Disconnect the AC Adaptor from
the DC IN jack on your camcorder. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the camcorder and the DC plug.

CHG (charge) lamp

To remove the battery pack
3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the
DC IN jack of your camcorder. Be sure that the v mark on the DC plug is facing to the v mark on your camcorder.

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

2 Start playing back.

Touch to rewind the tape to the desired point, then touch to start playback.
Touch. The most recently recorded image is displayed.

P-MENU

A Stop B Play/Pause toggles as you touch it
Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes.
A Tape playback B Previous/Next C Index screen display
When a Memory Stick Duo is inserted, appears by touching.

C Rewind/Fast forward

is not displayed when a Memory Stick Duo is not inserted or no image files exist in it.

To adjust the volume

Rotate the CAM CTRL dial to adjust the volume (p. 33).
You can also adjust the volume on the menu (p. 67).
To display pictures on a Memory Stick Duo on the Index screen
Touch. Touch one of the pictures to back to the single display mode. To view pictures in other folders, touch t t [PB FOLDER], select a folder with / , then touch (p. 60).
To search for a scene during playback
Touch and hold / during playback (Picture Search), or / while fast forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip Scan).
You can play back in various modes ([ SPD PB], p. 64). VAR.
A Previous/Next 6 pictures B The picture displayed before switching to the index screen.
Functions used for recording/playback, etc.
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto. You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 57) if you want to zoom to a level greater than 10. 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.
To record high quality still images during tape recording (Dual Rec).. qa
You can record high quality still images on the Memory Stick Duo during tape recording.
1 Press START/STOP 8, qa to start tape recording. 2 Press PHOTO 1 fully. For each separate time tape recording, up to 3 still images can be recorded. Orange color boxes indicate the number of recorded images. When recording is finished, the color changes to orange. 3 Press START/STOP 8, qa to stop tape recording. Stored still images appear one by one, and the images are stored onto the Memory Stick Duo. When disappears, the image has been recorded.

Indicators displayed during recording/playback

Recording movies

I Recording folder (60) J Image size (58) K Quality ([FINE] or [STD]) (58) L Number of recorded still images (32)

Recording still images

60min 60 min
A Recording format ( (66) B Remaining battery (approx.)
Recording mode (SP or LP) is also displayed in the DV format.
C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording)) D During recording: Tape counter (hour: minute: second) During playback: Time code (hour: minute: second: frame) E Recording capacity of the tape (approx.) (69) F Review button for still images on the Memory Stick Duo (32)
Appears when Memory Stick Duo is inserted.
M Memory Stick Duo indicator and the number of images that can be recorded (approx.)
Data code during recording
The date/time during recording and the camera setting data will be recorded automatically. They do not appear on the screen during recording, but you can check them as [DATA CODE] during playback (p. 68).
G END SEARCH/Rec review display switch button (39) H Personal Menu button (48)
Recording still images during tape recording (Dual Rec)
( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded.

Viewing movies

qf 4 5

Viewing still images

2 qh 0

MEMORY PLAY

wf wg w;
N Tape transport indicator O Video operation buttons (31)
P Data file name Q Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures in the current playback folder R Playback folder (60) S Previous/Next folder icon
The following indicators appear when the first or last picture of the current folder is displayed and when there are multiple folders on the same Memory Stick Duo.

: Touch

folder. : Touch
to move to the previous to move to the next folder.
/ to move to either the previous or the next folder.
T Image delete button (80) U Tape playback select button (31) V Previous/Next image button (31) W Index screen display button (31) X Image protection mark (81) Y Print mark (80)
Indicators displayed during recording/playback (Continued) Indicators when you made changes
You can use the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 21) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen.
Some of the indicators may not appear when you use [DISP GUIDE].

( ) is a reference page.

Center

Indicator Meaning

Color Slow Shutter (56) PictBridge connecting (81) EZ Warning (107) NightShot (33) Super NightShot (55)

Upper left

DEMO MODE

z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z
z z z z z z z z z z z z z z
z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z z
ON AUTO z* SP*/16:9 WIDE*/ */* z* STEREO /NORMAL/ / NORMAL 1080i/480i* OFF* 16:9* z OFF z AUTO ON ON z* LCD PANEL NORMAL* 5min OFF z* * *

EDIT/PLAY menu (p. 64)

VAR. SPD PB REC CTRL BURN DVD END SEARCH
STANDARD SET menu (p. 65)
VCR HDV/DV REC FORMAT DV SET VOLUME MULTI-SOUND LCD/VF SET COMPONENT i.LINK CONV TV TYPE DISP GUIDE STATUS CHECK GUIDEFRAME DATA CODE REMAINING REMOTE CTRL REC LAMP BEEP DISP OUTPUT MENU ROTATE A.SHUT OFF CALIBRATION QUICK REC

TIME/LANGU. menu (p. 70)

CLOCK SET WORLD TIME LANGUAGE
* The setting value before entering Easy Handycam operation will be retained. ** Cannot be operated in the CAMERA-TAPE mode.

CAMERA SET menu

Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 48 for details on selecting menu items. SUNSET&MOON**( )
Select to maintain the atmosphere of situations such as sunsets, general night views or fireworks.

LANDSCAPE**(

You can record pictures effectively in various situations with the [PROGRAM AE] function. B AUTO
Select to automatically record pictures effectively without the [PROGRAM AE] function. Select to shoot distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows that comes in between the camcorder and the subject.
Items with one asterisk (*) are adjusted to focus on subjects only a short distance away. Items with two asterisks (**) are adjusted to focus on subjects farther away. The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

SPOTLIGHT*(

Select to prevent peoples faces from appearing excessively white when subjects are lit by strong light.
SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( ) 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.
Select to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.

B NORMAL( ) LOW( )

Makes the flash level lower.
x REDEYE REDUC You can prevent redeye by activating the flash before recording. Set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then press (flash) (p. 33) repeatedly to select a setting. Using the Menu
(Auto redeye reduction): Pre-flashes to reduce redeye before the flash automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light. r (Forced redeye reduction): Always uses the flash and the redeye reducing pre-flash. r (No flash): Records without flash. The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other conditions.

TELE MACRO

This is useful to shoot small subjects, such as flowers or insects. You can blur out backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer. When you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON] ( ), the zoom (p. 32) moves to the top of the T (Telephoto) side automatically and allows for recording subjects at a close distance, down to about 37 cm (14 5/8 in.).
SUPER NS (Super NightShot)
The picture will be recorded at a maximum of 16 times the sensitivity of NightShot recording if you set [SUPER NS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 33) is also set to ON. and [SUPER NIGHTSHOT] appear on the screen. To return to the normal setting, set [SUPER NS] to [OFF], or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.
To cancel, touch [OFF], or zoom to wideangle (W side).
When recording a distant subject, focusing may be difficult and can take some time. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 54) when it is hard to focus automatically.
Do not use NightShot/[SUPER NS] in bright places. This may cause a malfunction. Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 33). Remove the conversion lens (optional). Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 54) when it is hard to focus automatically. The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down in this case.
The zebra pattern is not displayed.
The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 70 IRE.
The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 100 IRE or higher.
Portions of the screen where brightness is about 100 IRE or above may appear overexposed. IRE represents the screen brightness.
NS LIGHT (NightShot Light)
When using either the NightShot (p. 33) or [SUPER NS] (p. 55) function to record, you can record clearer pictures by setting [NS LIGHT], which emits infrared light (invisible), to [ON] (the default setting).
Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 33). Remove the conversion lens (optional). The maximum shooting distance using [NS LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).

You can assign an item you want to set to the CAM CTRL dial and adjust it manually using the CAM CTRL dial. B FOCUS
Assigns the [FOCUS] (p. 54) setting to the CAM CTRL dial.
Up to 10 zoom is performed optically.
Up to 10 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 20 zoom is performed digitally.
Assigns the [EXPOSURE] (p. 53) setting to the CAM CTRL dial.
Up to 10 zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 80 zoom is performed digitally.
Assigns the [AE SHIFT] (p. 54) setting to the CAM CTRL dial.

WB SHIFT

Assigns the [WB SHIFT] (p. 54) setting to the CAM CTRL dial.
See page 72 for details on the CAM CTRL dial.
You can compensate for camera shake (the default setting is [ON]). Set [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (optional), then the image becomes natural.

MEMORY SET menu

Settings for the Memory Stick Duo (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc.) The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 48 for details on selecting menu items.
Capacity of the Memory Stick Duo (MB) and the number of recordable pictures
When the POWER switch is set to CAMERAMEMORY

4.0M 2304 1728

STILL SET

x QUALITY )

Records still images at the fine image quality level. 16MB 32MB 64MB 128MB 256MB 512MB 1GB 2GB

3.0M 2304 1296

1.9M 1600 1200

VGA 640 480

B FINE (

970 2300

1250 3000

480 1100

2850 7200

STANDARD (

Records still images at the standard image quality level.
Image quality is automatically fixed to [FINE] during Easy Handycam operation.

IMAGE SIZE

4.0M )

B 4.0M (

Records still images clearly.

3.0M (

3.0M )

4650 30000

Records still images clearly in the 16:9 (wide) ratio.

1.9M (

Allows you to record more still images in relatively clear quality.

VGA (0.3M) (

Allows for the maximum number of images to be recorded.
[ IMAGE SIZE] can be set only when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY.
All numbers measured at the following setting: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality. When using the Memory Stick Duo made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment.
When the POWER switch is set to CAMERATAPE*

2.3M 1.7M 1512 1134

16MB 32MB

To print the date/time on the image, touch t [DATE/TIME] t [DATE] or [DAY&TIME] t.

5 Touch [EXEC] t [YES].

When printing is finished, [Printing.] disappears and the image selection screen appears again. Touch [END] when printing is completed.
Refer also to the operating instructions for the printer to be used. Do not attempt the following operations when is on the screen. The operations may not be performed properly. Operate the POWER switch. Disconnect the USB cable from the printer. Remove the Memory Stick Duo from your camcorder.
Jacks to connect external devices

Camcorder

loosen the screw, and then press down and pull out the accessory. Connecting with an external device wears out the battery pack faster. When you are recording movies with an external flash (optional) connected to the accessory shoe, turn off the power of the external flash to prevent charging noise being recorded. You cannot use an external flash (optional) and the built-in flash at the same time. When an external microphone (optional) is connected, it takes precedence over the internal microphone (p. 35).

B HDMI OUT jack (p. 42)

The available video signals are read, and the appropriate output format is selected and output automatically. You can check the setup value of HDMI OUTPUT on [STATUS CHECK] (p. 68).
HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) (p. 42, 74, 89) LANC jack (blue)
The LANC control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video devices and peripherals connected to it.
E COMPONENT OUT jack (p. 42) F A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p. 42, 74) G DC IN jack (p. 15) H (USB) jack (p. 81, 84)
1.Open the shoe cover. 2 - 7.Open the jack cover. 8.Open the LCD panel.
A Active Interface Shoe The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the POWER switch on your camcorder. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your accessory for details.
When you connect an accessory, open the shoe cover. The Active Interface 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,
E:\SONY\2661355111\01US08COM.fm

Connecting to a computer

When connecting your camcorder to the computer, the following operations are available:

Memory Stick].
It may take some time for the computer to recognize the camcorder when you connect the USB cable for the first time.
You can also select [ Memory Stick] from [USB SELECT] of (PICT.APPLI). During the Easy Handycam operation, you can set by connecting the USB cable.
Do not connect your camcorder to the computer at this point. The computer may not recognize the camcorder if you connect them with the USB cable before turning on your camcorder. Refer to page 87 for the recommended connection.

Copying the pictures

Double-click the [Removable Disk] icon displayed in [My Computer]. Then, drag and drop a picture in the folder onto the hard disk drive of your computer.

1 Turn on the computer.

Close down all applications running on the computer. For Windows 2000/Windows XP Log on as an Administrator.
2 Insert a Memory Stick Duo into

your camcorder.

3 Prepare the power source for
your camcorder. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 15).
Copying still images to a computer (Continued)
Disconnecting the USB cable
If [USB CONNECT] appears on the LCD screen, follow the procedure below to disconnect the USB cable.
1 Click the [Unplug or eject hardware] icon on the task tray. Click this icon. 3
A Folder containing image files recorded using other camcorders without the folder creation function (for playback only) B Folder containing image files recorded with your camcorder When no new folders have been created, only [101MSDCF] is displayed. C Folder containing movie data recorded using other camcorders without the folder creation function (for playback only)

Folder File Meaning

Task tray 2 Click [Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device-Drive]. Click here.
3 Click [OK]. 4 Disconnect the USB cable from the camcorder and computer.
101MSDCF (up to 999MSDCF)

DSC0ss ss.JPG

Still image file
If [USB CONNECT] does not appear on the LCD screen, do only step 4 above.
Remove the USB cable according to the correct procedure, otherwise files in the Memory Stick Duo may not be updated correctly. Also, this may cause a malfunction of the Memory Stick Duo.
ssss stands for any number between 0001 and 9999.
Double-click the drive icon, then drag and drop the desired picture file onto the hard disk of your computer.
1 Close down all applications running on the computer. 2 Drag and drop the drive icon on the desktop onto the [Trash] icon. 3 Disconnect the USB cable from the camcorder and computer.
Copying movies on a tape to the computer
If you are using Mac OS X, turn off the computer before disconnecting the USB cable and ejecting the Memory Stick Duo. Do not disconnect the USB cable while the access lamp is lit. Make sure to disconnect the USB cable before turning off your camcorder.

You cannot record on the Memory Stick Duo.
Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick Duo if there is one (p. 114). The Memory Stick Duo is full. Delete unnecessary pictures recorded on the Memory Stick Duo (p. 80). Format the Memory Stick Duo on your camcorder or insert another Memory Stick Duo (p. 60). You cannot record movies with this unit on the Memory Stick Duo. When the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-TAPE, you cannot record still images on the Memory Stick Duo with: [PICT.EFFECT] [D.EFFECT] While executing [FADER] [SMTH SLW REC]
The recording angle differs depending on the POWER switch setting position.
The recording angle when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY is wider than when it is set to CAMERA-TAPE.
You cannot record a smooth transition on a tape from the last recorded scene to the next.
Perform END SEARCH (p. 39). Do not remove the cassette (The picture will be recorded continuously without a break even when you turn the power off). Do not record pictures in the HDV and DV formats on the same tape. Do not record pictures in SP mode and LP mode on the same tape. Avoid stopping then recording a movie in the LP mode. When [QUICK REC] is set to [ON], you cannot record a smooth transition (p. 70).
The shutter sound is not heard when you record a still image.
Set [BEEP] to [ON] (p. 69).

The flash does not work.

You cannot use the flash during tape recording. When attaching a conversion lens (optional) or a filter (optional) to your camcorder, it may block the flash of your camcorder. In this case, the flash light does not emit light. Even if auto flash or (Auto redeye reduction) is selected, you cannot use the internal flash with: [SPOTLIGHT], [SUNSET&MOON], and [LANDSCAPE] of [PROGRAM AE] [SPOT METER] The power of the external flash (optional) is not turned on, or the flash is not attached correctly.
[END SEARCH] does not work.
Do not eject the cassette after recording (p. 39). There is nothing recorded on the cassette.
[END SEARCH] does not work correctly.
There is a blank section between recorded sections of the tape. This is not a malfunction.
Adjusting the image during recording
Refer also to Menu (p. 101). The auto focus does not function.
Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 54). The recording conditions are not suitable for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 54).
[STEADYSHOT] does not function.
Set [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 57). While using [SMTH SLW REC], [STEADYSHOT] does not work.
The BACK LIGHT function does not function.
In the following settings, the BACK LIGHT function is canceled. [MANUAL] of [EXPOSURE] [SPOT METER] The BACK LIGHT function does not work during Easy Handycam operation (p. 28).
The [FLASH LEVEL] cannot be changed.
[FLASH LEVEL] (p. 55) cannot be changed during Easy Handycam operation.
[DIGITAL ZOOM] does not function.

QZ The tape is locked - check the tab. (p. 112) Q The tape has reached the end. (p. 24, 31)
Rewind or change the tape.

x Memory Stick Duo

Insert a Memory Stick. (p. 24) Reinsert the Memory Stick. (p. 24, 114)
Reinsert the Memory Stick Duo a few times. If even then the indicator flashes, the Memory Stick Duo might be damaged. Try with another Memory Stick Duo.
Memory Stick folders are full. Troubleshooting
You cannot create folders exceeding 999MSDCF. You cannot delete created folders using your camcorder. You will have to format the Memory Stick Duo (p. 60), or delete them using your computer.
Cannot record still images on Memory Stick. (p. 114)
This is a read-only Memory Stick.
Insert a writable Memory Stick Duo.

x Dual Rec

No more still pictures during movie recording.
You pressed PHOTO after taking the maximum storable still images (up to 3 images can be stored) (p. 32).
Incompatible type of Memory Stick.
A type of Memory Stick Duo incompatible with your camcorder is inserted (p. 114).
Cannot save still picture.
Do not eject Memory Stick Duo while still images are being stored onto it (p. 32).

x Lens cover

Lens cover not fully open. Turn power off then on. (p. 19) Lens cover is not closed. Turn the power off once. (p. 19)
x PictBridge compliant printer
Check the connected device.
Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it.

x Others

Cannot record due to copyright protection. (p. 112) Change to correct tape format.
The pictures cannot be played back because of an incompatible format.
Connect the camcorder to a PictBridge compatible printer.

Error. Cancel the task.

Check the printer.
No output image in VCR HDV/DV. Change format.
Stop playback or signal input, or change the [VCR HDV/DV] setting (p. 65).
Cannot print. Check the printer.
x Dirty video head. Use a cleaning cassette. (p. 119) Cannot start Easy Handycam. (p. 92) Cannot cancel Easy Handycam. (p. 92) For audio, connect red and white plug on AV cable. (p. 42)

x Flash

Charging Cannot record still images.
You are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional).
Lens accessory attached. Cannot use flash. (p. 33)
E:\SONY\2661355111\01US11ADD.fm

The playback The playback screen screen pauses. goes blank. (Solid blue screen)
The following phenomenon occurs in DV format.

Block-noise appears.

The playback screen goes blank. (Solid blue screen)
The video heads will degrade after long use. If you cannot obtain a clear image even after using a cleaning cassette (optional), it might be because the video heads are worn out. Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility to have the video heads replaced.
CALIBRATION 1/3 Touch the "x"

LCD screen

Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage. 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.
4 Touch the displayed on the screen with the corner of the Memory Stick Duo or the like. The position of the changes. Touch [CANCEL] to cancel.
If you did not press the right spot, start from step 4 again.
You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is rotated.

On handling the casing

If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water, and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth. Avoid the following to avoid damage to the finish. Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine, alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide and sunscreen. Handling with above substances on your hands. Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or vinyl objects for a long period of time.
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.
To change the battery of the Remote Commander
1 While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail into the slit to pull out the battery case. 2 Place a new battery with the + side facing up. 3 Insert the battery case back into the Remote Commander until it clicks.

HDR-HC3

HDV 1080i Handycam Camcorder
The HDR-HC3 is everything youve come to expect from the industrys smallest and lightest camcorder as of February 1, 2006, plus a few extras. Instantly switch back and forth between HD and SD Recording Modes, capture 4.0 Megapixel still images, and enjoy unprecedented detail and color reproduction with the ClearVid CMOS Sensor.
2.1 Megapixel (Gross) ClearVid CMOS Sensor 1/3" ClearVid CMOS Sensor provides stunning detail and clarity with exceptional video (1080 lines of resolution - HD Mode or 530 lines of horizontal resolution - SD Mode) and still image performance (4.0 Megapixel). Unlike traditional CCD Imagers, CMOS Sensors require less power, providing better battery performance. HDV Recording Format From the innovators in camcorder technology, Sony s HDR-HC3 camcorder is the industry's smallest and lightest HDV1080i consumer level camcorder and player (as of February 1, 2006). Now you can record all your memories in true highdefinition video. Switchable HDV/DV Format Recording The HDR-HC3 is capable of recording and playing back both High Definition (HD) and Standard Definition (SD) video recorded on a standard MiniDV cassette. Real-Time HD Codec Engine Sony developed a Real Time MPEG Encode/Decode system with reduced energy consumption and compact size to fit inside a personal camcorder. This engine provides efficient MPEG2 compression, and recording and playback of clear HD images at the same bit rate of the DV format, so that High Definition video can be recorded on the same MiniDV cassettes as are used for SD recording. 10X Optical / 80XDigital 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 zoom. Professional Quality Carl Zeiss VarioSonnar T* Lens 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 perfectg renditions of subtle tones. The additional T* coating on the lens further reduces unwanted glare and flare. 2.7" Wide (16:9) Hybrid Touch Panel Clear Photo LCD plus Display (211K Pixels) The 2.7" Wide (16:9) LCD screen provides excellent viewing clarity with imporoved resoltuion. The 211K pixel LCD screen rotates up to 270 degrees for multiple viewing angles providing sharp, detailed images for monitoring or playback, and the widescreen format makes shooting in 16:9 mode and composing shots even easier. Digital Still Memory Mode with Memory Stick Duo Media3 Capture still images up to 2304x1728 resolution, directly onto Memory Stick Duo Media for easy trasfer to PCs for emailing, printing or shairing with other compatible Memory Stick devices. Dual Record While recording video in High Definition you have the ability to capture a 2.3 Megapixel still image directly to Memory Stick Duo media. Assignable Dial Built into the lens body of the camera, the assignable dial can be used not only for focus or exposure, but may also be customized by the user to control Auto Exposure (AE) Shift, Exposure, Focus and White Balance (WB) Shift. In playback mode it allows you to control the volume. Super SteadyShot Image 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. Cinematic Mode Perfect for creating your own movie masterpieces, the HDR-HC3 Cinematic mode lends 24 frame film-like effect to your recordings. i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394)2 A high speed bi-directional digital video/audio communication between two compatible devices equipped with an IEEE1394 interface, including camcorders, digital VCRs, and PCs. Tele Macro Function Useful for shooting close up shots, but without having the camcorder casting a shadow on the subject. Images shot in the Tele Macro Mode will have the subject properly focused with the background unfocussed so that the subject stands out. Active Interface Shoe Provides a location directly on the camcorder on which to add optional accessories while providing power and twoway communication to those accessories. Built-in Intelligent Flash For added clarity and detail when taking pictures in low-light situations, the built-in flash improves pictures and reduces shadows.

Step-up

Specifications

General

Imaging Device: 1/3" 2100K Gross Pixels ClearVid CMOS Sensor Pixel Gross: 2100K Recording Media: MiniDV Cassette, Memory Stick Duo Media, Memory Stick PRO Duo Media Recording and Playback Times: High Definition: 60 minutes; Standard Definition: SP=60 min., LP=90 min. Video Actual: 1434K Pixels (16:9), 1076K Pixels (4:3) Still Actual: 1493K Pixles (16:9), 1991K Pixles (4:3)
Power Consumption: 4.1W/4.4W - HDV; 3.9W/4.2W - DV (VF/LCD) Battery Type: InfoLithium with AccuPower Meter System (NP-FP60)
Service and Warranty Information
Limited Warranty: 1 Year Parts; 90 Days Labor

Software

Supplied Software: N/A
Analog-to-Digital Converter: N/A Format(s) Supported: HDV 1080i and MiniDV

Convenience

USB Streaming: N/A SteadyShot Image Stabilization: Yes ( Super; Electronic) Accessory Shoe: Yes, Active Interface Shoe White Balance: Auto/Outdoor/Indoor/One Push Memory Stick PRO Media Compatibility: Tested to support up to 2GB media capacity; does not support high speed transfer function; does not support Access Control security function. Still Image Mode(s): JPEG Minimum Illumination: 5 Lux (0 Lux with Super NightShot Infrared System) Low Light Capability: Super NightShot Movie Mode(s): N/A

Dimensions

Weight: 1 lb. 5 oz. (600g) with Tape and Battery Measurements: 3 1/4" x 3 1/8" x 5 1/2" (82 x 78 x 139mm)

Supplied Accessories

Power Adaptor/ In Camera Charger (AC-L200) InfoLithium Rechargeable Battery (NP-FP60) Wireless Remote Commander Remote Control (RMT-831) A/V Cable Component Video Cable USB Cable

Optional Accessories

Starter Kit (ACC-FP71) Rechargeable InfoLithium Batteries (NPFP50/FP71/FP90) AC Charger & Power Supply (BC-TRP) Filter Kit (VF-30CPKXS) Wide Angle Lens (VCL-0630X) High Grade Wide Angle Lens (VCL-HG07630X) Tele Conversion Lens (VCL-2030X) High Grade Tele Conversion Lens (VCL-HG2030) Video Light (HVL-HL1) Video Light & Flash (HVL-HFL1) Tripod (VCT-R640) Pocket Tripod (VCT-MTK) Soft Case (LCM-HCF) Carrying Case (LCS-VA30) Witeless Bluetooth Microphone with Center Channel Capability (ECM-HW1) Stereo Microphone (ECM-HST1) A/V Cable with S-Video (VMC-30FS) Sports Pack (SPK-HCB) Professional MiniDV Cassette for High Definition Recording (DVM-63HD) Color: Black

Inputs and Outputs

LANC Terminal: Yes (Stereo Mini) 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)2 Digital Audio/Video Output(s): Yes (via i.LINK)2 USB Port(s): Yes (1.1 compliant) i.LINK Interface: Yes2 Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr) Output(s): Yes Headphone Jack: N/A Microphone Input: N/A Remote Jack: N/A S-Video Input(s): N/A S-Video Output(s): Yes (via optional accessory) HDMI Connection Output(s): Yes

Hardware

LCD: 2.7" (211K Pixels) Wide (16:9) Touch Panel SwivelScreen Clear Photo LCD plus Display Lens Type: Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Viewfinder: Color, 123K Pixels Docking Station: N/A Microphone: Yes (Built-in)

Optics

35mm Equivalent: 41.3-485mm (16:9 Camera Mode), 50.5-594mm (4:3 Camera Mode), 40.4404mm (16:9 Memory Mode), 37-370mm (4:3 Memory Mode) Aperture: f1.8-2.9 Exposure: Touch Panel (24 steps) Filter Diameter: 30mm Focal Distance: 5.1-51mm; 370mm; Telemacro Focus: Full Range Auto/Manual (Assignable Dial) Progressive Shutter Mode: N/A Shutter Speed: Auto, 1/20 - 1/500 (AE Mode) Optical Zoom: 10X Digital Zoom: 80X Resolution: 2MP
1. Battery life may vary depending upon usage patterns. Designed for use with compatible Sony InfoLithium batteries. 2. 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. 3. Available storage capacity of Memory Stick and Memory Stick PRO media may vary. A portion of the memory is used for data management functions. Actual available memory in MB's is: 8=7.5, 16=15, 32=30, 64=61, 128=123, 256=220, 512=460, 1GB=940MB, 2GB=1.85GB 2006 Sony Electronics Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved. Sony, Advanced HAD, CineFrame, Handycam, i.LINK, InfoLithium, like.no.other, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, NightShot, Remote Commander, SteadyShot, SwivelScreen and worryfreedigital are trademarks of Sony. Carl Zeiss and Vario-Sonnar are trademarks of Carl Zeiss. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. Features and specifications subject to change without notice. Non-metric weights and measures are approximate. Screen Images Simulated
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: 02/15/2006