If you force the Memory Stick Duo into the slot in the wrong direction, the Memory Stick Duo, the Memory Stick Duo slot, or image data may be damaged.
2 Insert the Memory Stick Duo
into the Memory Stick Duo slot in the right direction until it clicks. DCR-HC96:
To eject a Memory Stick Duo
Lightly push in once and slide out the Memory Stick Duo alongside the camcorder body.
Do not remove the Memory Stick Duo forcibly with the fingers as it may be damaged. When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the Memory Stick Duo, or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged. When inserting or ejecting the Memory Stick Duo, be careful that the Memory Stick Duo does not pop out and drop.
Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC46/HC96)
By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-quality pictures.
If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended. When viewing pictures recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio with [TV TYPE] set to [4:3], pictures may appear rough depending on the subject (p. 43).
Recording a moving picture or still image on the Memory Stick Duo
1 Set the POWER switch to CAMERAMEMORY. The aspect ratio of the picture switches to 4:3. 2 Press WIDE SELECT to select the desired screen aspect ratio.
WIDE SELECT button POWER switch
If you record movies (MPEG MOVIE EX) in the 16:9 (wide) mode, black bands appear at the top and bottom of the picture when they are played back. For the number of recordable pictures, see page 56. For DCR-HC46: Still images will be fixed to image size [0.7M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [1.0M] ( ). For DCR-HC96: Still images will be fixed to image size [2.3M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [3.0M] ( ).
Selecting the aspect ratio for recording movies on a tape
Be sure to set the POWER switch to CAMERA-TAPE. Press WIDE SELECT repeatedly to select the desired screen aspect ratio.

16:9* 4:3*

* When viewing on the LCD screen. It may be different in the viewfinder. Differences in the angle of view between 4:3 and 16:9 vary depending on the zoom position. If you play back a picture on TV, set [TV TYPE] for playback in the aspect ratio of the TV (p. 43).
E:\SONY\2659813111\01US03BAS.fm
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)
With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy viewing.
DCR-HC36/HC46: Remove the lens cap (p. 18). DCR-HC36: DCR-HC36/ HC46 DCR-HC96

The indicator (A) changes [STBY] (tape only) to [REC].
The sound of a movie (MPEG MOVIE EX) recorded on a Memory Stick Duo will be monaural.

Flashing t Lit

A shutter sound is heard. When disappears, the image has been recorded.

To stop movie recording

Press REC START/STOP again.
While recording movies on a tape, or while in standby mode, you can record a still image on a Memory Stick Duo by pressing PHOTO fully. Still images will be fixed to image size [0.2M] in 16:9 screen (DCR-HC46/HC96), or [VGA (0.3M)] in 4:3 screen.
To check the latest recording on a Memory Stick Duo
Touch. To delete the picture, touch t [YES].

Playback

1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow
repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

2 Start playing back.

On a Tape: Touch , then touch start playback.
to 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, touch to display. is not displayed when an inserted Memory Stick Duo contains no image data.

C Rewind/Fast forward

On a Memory Stick Duo: Touch t / to select a picture with , then touch.

To adjust the volume

Touch t [VOLUME], then to adjust the volume.
If you cannot find [VOLUME] in [MENU] (p. 44).

, touch

Touch. Touch one of the pictures to back to the single display mode.
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. C Movie icon
To display pictures on a Memory Stick Duo on the Index screen
To view pictures in other folders, touch t t [PB FOLDER], select a folder with / , then touch (p. 59).
Functions used for recording/playback, etc.

To use zoom. 2 5

Move the power zoom lever 2 slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
Wider range of view: (Wide angle)

Close view: (Telephoto)

You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons 5 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. You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 54) if you want to zoom to a level greater than the following: 20 (DCR-HC36) 12 (DCR-HC46) 10 (DCR-HC96) 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.

Indicators displayed during recording/playback

Recording movies

In the CAMERA-TAPE mode

Recording still images

3.0M FINE
A Remaining battery (approx.) B Recording mode (SP or LP) (65) C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording)) D Recording: Tape counter (hour: minute: second) Playback: Tape counter (hour: minute: second)/Time code (hour: minute: second: frame) E Recording capacity of the tape (approx.) (68) F END SEARCH/EDIT SEARCH/Rec review display switch button (39) G Personal Menu button (44)
H Recording folder (59) I Image size (26, 56) (DCR-HC46/HC96) J Quality ( or ) (56) K Memory Stick Duo indicator and the number of images that can be recorded (approx.) L Review button (30)
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. 67).
In the CAMERA-MEMORY mode

A B C D E

A Recording folder (59) B Estimated recordable time C Movie size (58) D Recording start indicator (appears for about 5 seconds) E Review button (30)
( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded.

Viewing movies

On a tape

qd 4 5

Viewing still images

MEMORY PLAY

qk wd wf ql
M Tape transport indicator N Video operation buttons (31)
O Data file name P Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures in the current playback folder

On a Memory Stick Duo

Q Playback folder (59) R 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.

0:00:00

: Touch

folder. : Touch

to move to the previous to move to the next folder.
A Data file name B Play/Pause button (31) C Previous/Next image button (31) D Image size (58) E Playing time F Previous/Next scene button
A movie file will be divided into a maximum of 60 scenes. The number of scenes divided depends on the length of the movie. After selecting a scene from which to start the playback, touch to play back.

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.
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) (
Select to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.
Items with one asterisk (*) can be adjusted to focus on subjects only a short distance away. Items with two asterisks (**) can be adjusted to focus on subjects farther away. The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
SPORTS* (Sports lesson) (
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.
Select to minimize shake when shooting fast moving subjects.
CAMERA SET menu (Continued)
1 Touch the point where you want to fix and adjust the exposure on the screen. appears. 2 Touch [END].

OUTDOOR (

The white balance is adjusted to be appropriate for the following recording conditions:
Outdoors Night views, neon signs and fireworks Sunrise or sunset Under daylight fluorescent lamps
To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] t [END].
If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

INDOOR (n)

Indoors At party scenes or studios where the lighting conditions change quickly Under video lamps in a studio, or under sodium lamps or incandescent-like color lamps

EXPOSURE

You can fix the brightness of a picture manually. When recording indoors on a clear day, for instance, you can avoid backlight shadows on people next to the window by fixing the exposure to that of the wall side of the room.

ONE PUSH (

1 Touch [MANUAL]. appears. 2 Adjust the exposure by touching. 3 Touch.
The white balance will be adjusted according to the ambient light. 1 Touch [ONE PUSH]. 2 Frame a white object such as a piece of paper, to fill the screen under the same lighting conditions as you will shoot the subject. 3 Touch [ ]. flashes quickly. When the white balance has been adjusted and stored in the memory, the indicator stops flashing.

Using the Direct Access to Click to DVD function for the first time
The Direct Access to Click to DVD function enables you to copy pictures recorded on a tape to a DVD easily if your camcorder is connected to a computer. Before operating the Direct Access to Click to DVD function, follow the steps below to start Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher.
1 Turn on the computer. 2 Click the start menu, then select [All Programs]. 3 Select [Click to DVD] from the programs displayed, then click [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher]. [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] starts up.
After you start up [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] once, from then on it starts up automatically when you turn on your computer. [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] is set up for each Windows XP user.
To i.LINK connector i.LINK cable (optional)

1 Turn on the computer.

Close all applications running with an i.LINK.
2 Prepare the power source for the
camcorder. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source since it takes a few hours to create a DVD.
You can only use an i.LINK cable for this operation. You cannot use a USB cable.
The status of the operation on your computer is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder. [CAPTURING]: The picture recorded on the tape is being copied to the computer. [CONVERTING]: The picture is being converted to the MPEG2 format. [WRITING]: The picture is being written onto the DVD.
If you use a DVD-RW/+RW which has other data stored on it, the message [This is a recorded disc. Delete and overwrite?] appears on the LCD screen of your camcorder. When you touch [EXEC], the existing data is erased and new data is written.
4 Insert a recorded cassette into

your camcorder.

5 Connect your camcorder (DCRHC36) or the Handycam Station (DCR-HC46/HC96) to a computer via an i.LINK cable (p. 94).
When you connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connector in the correct way. If you insert the connector forcibly, damage may occur and cause camcorder malfunction. For details, see First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 93).
9 Touch [NO] to finish creating a

DVD. Using a Computer

60min 0:00:00:00 BURN DVD COMPLETED Create another copy? Disctray opens.
t [MENU] t (EDIT/PLAY) t [BURN DVD] t.
Click to DVD starts up and the onscreen instructions appear on your computer.
The disc tray comes out automatically. To create another DVD with the same content, touch [YES]. The disc tray comes out. Place a new writable DVD in the disc drive. Then, repeat step 8 and 9.

7 Place a writable DVD in the disc

drive of the computer.

8 Touch [EXEC] on the screen of
0:00:00:00 60min BURN DVD START CREATE DVD?
Touch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on your camcorder.
You cannot cancel the operation after [Finalizing DVD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder. Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set the POWER switch to another mode on your camcorder until the picture is completely copied to the computer. Continued ,
Creating a DVD (Direct Access to Click to DVD) (Continued)
When [CONVERTING] or [WRITING] is displayed on the screen, capturing of pictures has already finished. Even if you disconnect the i.LINK cable or turn off the camcorder at this stage, DVD creation will continue on your computer. If any of the following occurs, copying of the picture is canceled. A DVD containing the data up to the point the operation was canceled is created. Refer to the help files of Click to DVD for details. The tape contains a 10-second blank portion. The tape data contains a date before the date of later images. Both normal and wide pictures are recorded on the same tape (Only for Click to DVD older than Ver.2.2). You cannot operate [BURN DVD] in the following situations: While a tape is running. While recording images onto a Memory Stick Duo. When Click to DVD is started up from the computer. For DCR-HC96: When [A/V t DV OUT] in the menu setting of your camcorder is set to [ON].
Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (DCRHC96)
Using an i.LINK cable (3) and the A/V connecting cable (1) or the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), you can convert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 13). Software that can record the video signal must be installed on your computer beforehand.

A/V jack

(Yellow) (White) (Red) VCR

Computer To S VIDEO jack

To i.LINK jack DV Interface (i.LINK)
The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup. The A/V jack accepts analog signals.
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of an A/V connecting cable. In this case, the yellow (standard video) plug connection is not necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not output audio.
C i.LINK cable (optional) Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] on the menu (p. 68) beforehand. (The default setting is [LCD PANEL].)

Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever until the picture appears clearly (p. 20).
The picture in the viewfinder has disappeared.
Close the LCD panel. The picture is not displayed in the viewfinder when the LCD panel is open (p. 20).
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. 13). Remove the battery pack from the camcorder, then attach it again (p. 15). Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 13). Moisture condensation has occurred inside the camcorder (p. 129).
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.
The remaining tape indicator is not displayed.
Set [ REMAINING] to [ON] to always display the remaining tape indicator (p. 68).
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.
You cannot operate functions using the Memory Stick Duo.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY or PLAY/EDIT lamp (p. 18). Insert a Memory Stick Duo into your camcorder (p. 25). If you use a Memory Stick Duo formatted on a computer, format it again on your camcorder (p. 58).
Pictures cannot be deleted.
Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick Duo if there is one (p. 124). Cancel image protection on the picture (p. 81). The maximum number of pictures that you can delete on the index screen at one time is 100.
You cannot delete all pictures at once.
Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick Duo if there is one (p. 124). Cancel image protection on the pictures (p. 81).
You cannot format the Memory Stick Duo.
Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick Duo if there is one (p. 124).
Image protection cannot be applied.
Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick Duo if there is one (p. 124). Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 81).

Change the battery (p. 13, 126).
- (Warning indicator pertaining to the write-protect of the Memory Stick Duo)*
The write-protect tab on the Memory Stick Duo is set to lock (p. 124).
Old battery. Use a new one. (p. 126) Z Re-attach the power source. (p. 13) Use new AC adapter or reinsert. (p. 14)
(Warning indicator pertaining to the flash) (DCR-HC96) Slow flashing:

Still charging

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

x Moisture condensation

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

x Cassette/Tape

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

x Memory Stick Duo

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

x On a location for use Do not use or keep the Memory Stick Duo in the following locations.
Places subject to extremely high temperature, such as a car parked outside in the summer. Places under direct sunlight. Places with extremely high humidity or subject to corrosive gases.
x On the Memory Stick Duo adaptor After inserting a Memory Stick Duo into the Memory Stick Duo adaptor, you can use it with a standard Memory Stick compliant device.
When using a Memory Stick Duo with a Memory Stick compliant device, be sure to insert the Memory Stick Duo into a Memory Stick Duo adaptor. When inserting a Memory Stick Duo into a Memory Stick Duo adaptor, make sure the Memory Stick Duo is inserted facing in the correct direction, then insert it all the way in. Note that improper use may cause a malfunction. Also, if you force the Memory Stick Duo into the Memory Stick Duo slot in the wrong direction, the Memory Stick Duo adaptor may be damaged. Do not insert a Memory Stick Duo adaptor without a Memory Stick Duo attached. Doing so may result in malfunctions of the unit.
x On a Memory Stick PRO Duo
The maximum memory capacity of a Memory Stick PRO Duo that can be used on your camcorder is 2 GB. This unit does not support high speed data transfer.
About the InfoLITHIUM battery pack
This unit is compatible with an InfoLITHIUM battery pack (P series). Your camcorder operates only with an InfoLITHIUM battery pack. InfoLITHIUM P series battery packs have the mark.
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-FP70/FP71/FP90 (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.
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.
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 (STANDARD SET) menu and leave your camcorder in tape recording standby until the power goes off (p. 68).
To use the battery pack effectively
Battery pack performance decreases when the surrounding temperature is 10 C (50 F) or below, and the length of time you can use the battery pack becomes shorter. In that case, do one of the following to use the battery pack for a longer time. Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it up, and insert it in your camcorder right before you start taking shots. Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FP70/ FP71/FP90 (optional).

About i.LINK

About battery life
Battery capacity decreases over time and through repeated use. If decreased usage time between charges becomes significant, it is probably time to replace it with a new one. Each batterys life is governed by storage, operating and environmental conditions.
The DV Interface on this unit is an i.LINKcompliant DV Interface. This section describes the i.LINK standard and its features.

What is i.LINK?

i.LINK is a digital serial interface for transferring digital video, digital audio, and other data to other i.LINK-compatible devices. You can also control other devices using the i.LINK. i.LINK-compatible devices can be connected using an i.LINK cable. Possible applications are operations and data transactions with various digital AV devices. When two or more i.LINK-compatible devices are daisy-chained with the unit, operation becomes possible from any device in the chain. Note that operation method may vary, or data transactions may not be possible, depending on specifications and characteristics of the connected devices.

Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.
A button-type lithium battery (CR2025) is used in the Remote Commander. Do not use batteries other than the CR2025. When the lithium battery becomes weak, the operating distance of the Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
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.

Specifications

System
Video recording system 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Still image recording system Exif Ver. 2.2*1 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 DCR-HC36: 3.0 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. pixels Effective (still): pixels Effective (movie): pixels DCR-HC46: 3.27 mm (1/5.5 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. 000 pixels Effective (still): 000 pixels Effective (movie): pixels DCR-HC96: 5.9 mm (1/3 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. 000 pixels Effective (still): 000 pixels Effective (movie): 000 pixels Lens DCR-HC36: Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 20 (Optical), 800 (Digital) DCR-HC46: Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 12 (Optical), 800 (Digital) DCR-HC96: Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 10 (Optical), 120 (Digital) Focal length DCR-HC36: f=2.3 ~ 46 mm (3/32 ~ 1 13/16 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE: 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 ~ 34 1/32 in.) In CAMERA-MEMORY: 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 ~ 34 1/32 in.) F1.8 ~ 3.1 Filter diameter: 25 mm (1 in.) DCR-HC46: f=3.0 ~ 36 mm (1/8 ~ 1 7/16 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE: 46 ~ 628.5 mm (1 13/16 ~ 24 3/4 in.) (16:9)*~ 576 mm (1 15/16 ~ 22 3/4 in.) (4:3) In CAMERA-MEMORY: 43.6 ~ 523.2 mm (1 3/4 ~ 20 5/8 in.) (16:9) 40 ~ 480 mm (1 5/8 ~ 19 in.) (4:3) F1.8 ~ 2.5 Filter diameter: 25 mm (1 in.)

Mass (approx.) DCR-HC36: 370 g (13 oz) main unit only, 430 g (15 oz) including the NP-FP30 rechargeable battery pack and DVM60 cassette DCR-HC46: 380 g (13 oz) main unit only, 445 g (15 oz) including the NP-FP50 rechargeable battery pack and DVM60 cassette DCR-HC96: 460 g (1 lb) main unit only, 525 g (1 lb 2 oz) including the NP-FP50 rechargeable battery pack and DVM60 cassette Supplied accessories See page 12.
Handycam Station Input/Output connectors DCRA-C151 (DCR-HC46)
Audio/Video output 10-pin connector Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at load impedance 47 k (kilohms)), Output impedance with less than 2.2 k (kilohms) USB jack mini-B DV input/output i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin connector S100)

DCRA-C152 (DCR-HC96)

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

NP-FP50 (DCR-HC46/HC96)

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

AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B

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

other specifications.

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

z Provided Not provided

On trademarks

OUT IN/OUT z

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

See [LCD/VF SET] - [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 62) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.
Step 5: Using the touch panel
You can play back recorded pictures (p. 27), or change the settings (p. 40) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

DISP/BATT INFO

DCR-HC36E/ HC44E/HC46E DCR-HC94E/ HC96E
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Select the screen language in [LANGUAGE] on the (TIME/ LANGU.) menu (p. 40, 65).
Checking the screen indicators (Display guide)
You can easily check the meaning of each indicator (p. 34) that appears on the LCD screen.

1 Touch

60min 1/3
DISP GUIDE EXPOSURE FADER MENU TELE MACRO SPOT FOCUS
Touch the button on the LCD screen.
Perform the same actions as explained above when you press the buttons on the LCD frame. Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD frame accidentally while using the touch panel. If the buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly, adjust the LCD screen (CALIBRATION) (p. 125). Dots in lines may appear on the LCD screen, but this is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded.
Touch [MENU] during Easy Handycam operation (p. 24).

2 Touch [DISP GUIDE].

S e l e c t a r e a fo r g u i d e.

DISP GUIDE

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

To finish the operation

Touch [END].
Step 6: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.
If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 126).
3 Select [CLOCK SET] with

A/V t DV OUT (63, 93) DV input (70) DV output (67) i.LINK connection (67, 70) Zero set memory (36) Slide show (56) LCD backlight off (16)

Other indicator

Information (114)
Searching for the starting point
Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up (p. 26).
Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)
You can search for the start point to start the next recording while viewing the pictures on the screen. The sound is not played back during the search.
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)
[END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape. Touch t
60min END SEARCH EXECUTING

STBY 0:00:00

. Recording/Playback

1 0:00:00

CANCEL

2 Touch and hold

Touch here to cancel the operation.
The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished.
(to go backward)/ (to go forward) and release it at the point where you want the recording to start.
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)
You can view about 2 seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped the tape. Touch t
[END SEARCH] will not work correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape. You can also select [END SEARCH] from the menu. When the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights up, select the [END SEARCH] short-cut in Personal Menu (p. 40).
The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby.

Remote Commander

Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander.

Insulation sheet

*2 Not available during Easy Handycam operation. Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. 31). To change the battery, see page 126.
Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)

1 q; 4

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

60min 0:00:00

A PHOTO*1 (p. 26)
The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded onto the Memory Stick Duo as a still image.

The picture will be recorded at a maximum of 16 times the sensitivity of NightShot plus recording if you set [SUPER NSPLUS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch (p. 29) is also set to ON. and [SUPER NIGHTSHOT PLUS] appear on the screen. To cancel the setting, set [SUPER NSPLUS] to [OFF] or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.
Do not use NightShot plus/[SUPER NSPLUS] in bright places. This may cause a malfunction. Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 29). Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) 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.
FLASH SET (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
You can set this function when you use the built-in flash or an external flash (optional) that is compatible with your camcorder. x FLASH LEVEL HIGH( )
Makes the flash level higher.

B NORMAL( ) LOW( )

Makes the flash level lower.
SUPER NS (Super NightShot) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
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. 29) is also set to ON. and [SUPER NIGHTSHOT] appear on the screen. To cancel the setting, set [SUPER NS] to [OFF] or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.
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. 29). Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached. Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) 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.
COLOR SLOW S (Color Slow Shutter)
When you set [COLOR SLOW S] to [ON], you can record an image brighter in color even in dark places. and [COLOR SLOW SHUTTER] appear on the screen. To cancel [COLOR SLOW S], touch [OFF].
Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) 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 at this time.

See page 17.

During Easy Handycam operation, you can set [DATE/TIME] only. For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: appears for a picture recorded using a flash.

B LCD PANEL

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

REMAINING

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

V-OUT/PANEL

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

B NORMAL

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

OPPOSITE

Scrolls the menu items upwards by touching.
REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)
The default setting is [ON], allowing you to use the supplied Remote Commander (p. 36).
Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another VCR remote control unit.
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)

B 5 min

The camcorder is automatically turned off when you do not operate your camcorder for more than approximately 5 minutes.
The camcorder is not automatically turned off.
When you connect your camcorder to a wall socket, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to [NEVER].
REC LAMP (Recording lamp) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)
The camera recording lamp will not light up during recording when you set this to [OFF] (The default setting is [ON]) (p. 31).

CALIBRATION

See page 125.
A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel.

Cancels the melody.

TIME/LANGU. menu
(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE) See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.
Customizing Personal Menu
You can add desired menu items to any Personal Menu allocated to the lamp positions currently lit. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu.

t [MENU] t (EDIT/PLAY) t t [AUD DUB CTRL] t t [AUDIO DUB].

X appears.

60min AUD DUB CTRL 0:00:00:00

AUDIO DUB

4 Touch
(Play) and start playing back the audio you want to record at the same time. appears while recording the new sound in stereo 2 (ST2) during the playback of the tape.

5 Touch

(Stop) when you want to stop recording. To dub on other scenes, repeat step 2 to select scenes, then touch [AUDIO DUB].

Recording sound

Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder beforehand.

6 Touch

(Play/Pause) to play back the tape, then touch it again at the point where you want to start recording the sound.
To set the end point for audio dubbing, beforehand, press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the scene at which you want to stop audio dubbing during playback. After step 2 to 4, the recording stops automatically at the selected scene. You can only record additional audio over a tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape recorded on other camcorders (including other DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E camcorders).
Dubbing sound to a recorded tape (Continued)
To check the recorded sound
1 Play back the tape on which you have recorded audio (p. 27). 2 Touch t [MENU] t (STANDARD SET) t t [AUDIO MIX] t.
Deleting recorded pictures from the Memory Stick Duo

0:00:00:00

60min 60 min 0001 1010002

2 / MEMORY PLAY

3 Touch / to adjust the balance of the original sound (ST1) and the new sound (ST2), then touch.
The original sound (ST1) is output at the default setting. Audio balance adjustment returns to the default setting after 12 hours of turning the power off.
3 Select a picture you want to

delete with /.

To delete all pictures at once, select [ ALL ERASE] (p. 54).

t [YES].

The pictures cannot be restored once they are deleted.
You can delete pictures on the index screen (p. 27). You can easily search for the picture to be deleted by displaying 6 pictures at once. Touch t [ DELETE] t the picture you want to delete t t [YES]. Pictures cannot be deleted when a Memory Stick Duo with the write-protect tab is set to the write-protect position (p. 120), or when the selected picture is protected (p. 77).

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC94E/HC96E
1.Open the shoe cover. 2 - 6.Open the jack cover.
B For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: LANC jack (blue)
The LANC control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video devices and peripherals connected to it.
C For DCR-HC96E: A/V (audio/video) jack (p. 38, 67, 93) For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E: A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p. 38, 67)
For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks.

(USB) jack (p. 82)

E For DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E: DV Interface (i.LINK) (p. 67, 90) For DCR-HC44E/HC94E: DV OUT Interface (i.LINK) (p. 67, 90) F DC IN jack (p. 9) G Interface connector
E:\SONY\2659814111\01GB06COM_E.fm
Before referring to the First Step Guide on your computer
When you install the Picture Package software on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer.
Software and features available for Macintosh computers differ from those available for Windows computers. For details, refer to chapter 6 of First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM. For First Step Guide, see page 85. There are 2 ways to connect your camcorder to a computer. USB cable This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape to the computer, copying files from a Memory Stick Duo to a computer, and copying files to a Memory Stick Duo. Software is not required to copy files from a Memory Stick Duo to a computer. (You can connect your camcorder using the standard driver of the computer.) i.LINK cable This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape. Image data is transferred in more clarity than with a USB cable.
Viewing video and pictures on PC
You can view the video and still images copied from your camcorder by selecting from thumbnails. Video and still images are saved in folders by date.
Music Video/Slideshow Producer
You can select your favorite video and still images from video and still images saved on your computer and easily create an original short video or original slide show with added music and visual styles.

* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary depending on the computer.

4 Click [Install].

Installing on a Windows computer
Log on as Administrators for installation for Windows 2000/Windows XP. The software version of Picture Package is displayed as 1.5. Depending on the computers operating system, a message may appear notifying you that First Step Guide cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield Wizard. In such a case, manually copy First Step Guide to your computer according to the message instructions.
1 Confirm that your camcorder is
not connected to the computer.

2 Turn on the computer.

Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software.
3 Place the CD-ROM in the disc
drive of your computer. The installation screen appears.
5 Select the language for the
application to be installed, then click [Next].
The software version of Picture Package is displayed as 1.5.
Installing the software and First Step Guide on a computer (Continued)

6 Click [Next].

9 Click [Install] on the [Ready to
Install the Program] screen. The installation of Picture Package starts.
7 Read [License Agreement], check
[I accept the terms of the license agreement] if you agree, then click [Next].
10Click [Next] to install the First
Step Guide. Depending on the computer, this screen may not be displayed. In such a case, skip to step 11.
8 Select where to save the
software, then click [Next].
11Click [Next], then follow the onscreen instructions to install ImageMixer VCD2.
12If the [Installing Microsoft(R)
DirectX(R)] screen is displayed, follow the steps below to install DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step 13.
1 Read the License Agreement, then click [Next].
13Make sure [Yes, I want to restart
my computer now.] is checked, then click [Finish].

2 Click [Next].

The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The short-cut icons for [Picture Package Menu] and [Picture Package destination folder] (and First Step Guide, if installed in step 10) appear on the desktop.

3 Click [Finish].

14Remove the CD-ROM from the
disc drive of your computer.
For details on connecting your camcorder and computer, see First Step Guide on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 89). If you have any questions about Picture Package, contact information is listed on page 89.
Installing on a Macintosh computer

A/V jack

(Yellow) (White) (Red) VCR

Computer To S VIDEO jack

To i.LINK jack DV Interface (i.LINK)
The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup. The A/V jack accepts analog signals.
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of an A/V connecting cable. In this case, the yellow (standard video) plug connection is not necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not output audio.
C i.LINK cable (optional) Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] on the menu (p. 64) beforehand. (The default setting is [LCD PANEL].)
When connecting to another device via the S VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable, pictures can be reproduced more faithfully than with the supplied A/V cable connection.
1 Turn on the analog video unit.
Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (Continued)
2 Slide the POWER switch of your
camcorder repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
3 On the LCD screen, touch
t [MENU] t (STANDARD SET) t [A/V t DV OUT] t [ON] t t.
4 Start playback on the analog

video unit.

5 Start capturing procedures on
your computer. Regarding operation, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the software or the on-line help. After capturing images and sound, stop capturing procedures on your computer, and stop playback on the analog video unit.
The bundled software Picture Package or ImageMixer VCD2 does not support the signal convert function. You may not be able to output the pictures correctly depending on the condition of the analog video signal input to your camcorder. You cannot transfer pictures with copyright protection signals to a computer. You can use a USB cable instead of an i.LINK cable to transfer pictures to a computer. Note, however, that the picture displayed may lack the same smoothness. When you are using the USB cable or an i.LINK cable to connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connectors in the correct way. If you insert the connectors forcibly, damage may occur and cause camcorder malfunction.

Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 125).
Fine patterns flicker, diagonal lines look jagged (DCR-HC94E/HC96E).
Adjust [SHARPNESS] to the (soften) side (p. 47).
No sound or only a low sound is heard.
Set [MULTI-SOUND] to [STEREO] (p. 61). Turn up the volume (p. 27). Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST2] (additional sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p. 76). If you are using an S VIDEO plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V connecting cable are also connected (p. 38).

The sound breaks off.

--- is displayed on the screen.
The tape you are playing was recorded without setting the date and time. A blank section on the tape is being played. The data code on a tape with a scratch or noise cannot be read.

Noises appear and

is displayed on the screen.
The tape was recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder (PAL). This is not a malfunction (p. 118).
The tape you are playing was recorded on another device with a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC REC). Your camcorder is not compatible with 4ch microphone recording.
Date search does not work correctly.
Be sure to record more than 2 minutes after the date changed. If one days recording is too short, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes.
There is a blank section in the beginning or between recorded sections of the tape. This is not a malfunction.
The supplied Remote Commander does not function.
Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 64). Remove any obstructions between the Remote Commander and the remote sensor. Keep strong light sources, such as sunlight or overhead lighting, away from the remote sensor, otherwise the Remote Commander may not function properly. Insert a fresh battery in the compartment with its +/ terminals matching those of the compartment (p. 126). Remove the conversion lens (optional) as the remote sensor may be obstructed by it.
Another VCR malfunctions when you use the supplied Remote Commander.
Select a commander mode other than VTR 2 for your VCR. Cover the sensor of your VCR with black paper.
Menu items are grayed out.
You cannot select grayed items in the current recording/playback situation.

The Memory Stick Duo is damaged. The Memory Stick Duo is not formatted correctly (p. 54, 119).
(Warning indicator pertaining to incompatible Memory Stick Duo)*
An incompatible Memory Stick Duo is inserted (p. 119).
Warning indicators and messages (Continued)
Q (Warning indicators pertaining to the tape) Slow flashing:
There is less than 5 minutes remaining on the tape. No cassette is inserted.* The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 119).*
(Warning indicator pertaining to camera-shake warning)
The amount of lights is not sufficient, so camera-shake easily occurs. Use the flash (DCR-HC94E/HC96E). The camcorder is unsteady, so camerashake easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with both hands and shoot the image. However, note that the camera-shake warning indicator does not disappear.
* You hear a melody when the warning indicators appear on the screen (p. 64).

Fast flashing:

The tape has run out.*
Z (Eject cassette warning)* Slow flashing:
The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 119).
Description of warning messages
If messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions.
When is displayed, the message can be turned into by touching. Touch to display the message again.
Moisture condensation has occurred (p. 124). The self-diagnosis display code is displayed (p. 113).
- (Warning indicator pertaining to image deletion)*
The image is protected (p. 77).

x Battery/Power

Use the InfoLITHIUM battery pack. (p. 121) Battery level is low.
Change the battery (p. 9, 121).
- (Warning indicator pertaining to the write-protect of the Memory Stick Duo)*
The write-protect tab on the Memory Stick Duo is set to lock (p. 120).
Old battery. Use a new one. (p. 121) Z Re-attach the power source. (p. 9) Use new AC adapter or reinsert. (p. 10)
(Warning indicator pertaining to the flash) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) Slow flashing:

Still charging

The self-diagnosis display code is displayed (p. 113).* There is something wrong with the flash.

x Moisture condensation

%Z Moisture condensation. Eject the cassette (p. 124) % Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H. (p. 124)
This Memory Stick is not formatted correctly.
Check the format, then format the Memory Stick Duo as necessary (p. 54, 119).
Cannot record. The Memory Stick is full.
Delete unnecessary images (p. 76).

x Cassette/Tape

Q Insert a cassette. (p. 20) Z Reinsert the cassette. (p. 20)
Check if the cassette is damaged.
- The Memory Stick is locked. Check the tab. (p. 120) Cannot playback. Reinsert the Memory Stick. (p. 21) Cannot record. Reinsert the Memory Stick. (p. 21) No file.
No file is recorded or there is no readable file on the Memory Stick Duo.
QZ The tape is locked - check the tab. (p. 119) Q The tape has reached the end. (p. 20, 27)

Specifications

Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.
A button-type lithium battery (CR2025) is used in the Remote Commander. Do not use batteries other than the CR2025. When the lithium battery becomes weak, the operating distance of the Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

System

Video recording system 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Still image recording system Exif Ver. 2.2*1 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 PAL color, CCIR 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 DCR-HC36E: 3.0 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. pixels Effective (still): pixels Effective (movie): pixels DCR-HC44E/HC46E: 3.27 mm (1/5.5 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. 000 pixels Effective (still): 000 pixels Effective (movie): pixels
Specifications (Continued)
DCR-HC94E/HC96E: 5.9 mm (1/3 type) CCD (Charge Coupled Device) Gross: Approx. 000 pixels Effective (still): 000 pixels Effective (movie): 000 pixels Lens DCR-HC36E: Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 20 (Optical), 800 (Digital) DCR-HC44E/HC46E: Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 12 (Optical), 800 (Digital) DCR-HC94E/HC96E: Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 10 (Optical), 120 (Digital) Focal length DCR-HC36E: f=2.3 ~ 46 mm (3/32 ~ 1 13/16 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE: 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 ~ 34 1/32 in.) In CAMERA-MEMORY: 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 ~ 34 1/32 in.) F1.8 ~ 3.1 Filter diameter: 25 mm (1 in.) DCR-HC44E/HC46E: f=3.0 ~ 36 mm (1/8 ~ 1 7/16 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE: 46 ~ 628.5 mm (1 13/16 ~ 24 3/4 in.) (16:9)*~ 576 mm (1 15/16 ~ 22 3/4 in.) (4:3) In CAMERA-MEMORY: 43.6 ~ 523.2 mm (1 3/4 ~ 20 5/8 in.) (16:9) 40 ~ 480 mm (1 5/8 ~ 19 in.) (4:3) F1.8 ~ 2.5 Filter diameter: 25 mm (1 in.)
DCR-HC94E/HC96E: f=5.1 ~ 51 mm (7/32 ~ 2 1/8 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE: 42.8 ~ 495 mm (1 11/16 ~ 19 1/2 in.) (16:9)*~ 450 mm (1 13/16 ~ 17 3/4 in.) (4:3) In CAMERA-MEMORY: 40.6 ~ 406 mm (1 5/8 ~ 16 in.) (16:9) 37 ~ 370 mm (1 1/2 ~ 14 5/8 in.) (4:3) F1.8 ~ 2.9 Filter diameter: 30 mm (1 3/16 in.) Color temperature [AUTO], [ONE PUSH], [INDOOR] (K), [OUTDOOR] (K) Minimum illumination DCR-HC36E/HC94E/HC96E: 5 lx (lux) (F 1.8) 0 lx (lux) (during NightShot plus (DCR-HC36E)/NightShot (DCRHC94E/HC96E) function)*3 DCR-HC44E/HC46E: 7 lx (lux) (F 1.8) 0 lx (lux) (NightShot plus function)*3

Getting Started.8 Grip belt..14 GUIDEFRAME..63
Label.. 119 LANC jack.. 80 LANDSCAPE.. 45 LANGUAGE.. 65 LCD backlight. 16, 97 LCD BL LEVEL (LCD back light level). 62 LCD BRIGHT.. 62 LCD COLOR.. 62 LCD PANEL. 64 LCD panel.. 16 LCD screen. 16 LCD/VF SET.. 62 Lens cap.. 8, 26 Lens cover.. 14, 26 LETTER BOX. 62 Lid.. 20 LP (Long Play). 61 LUMI. KEY (Luminance key). 57
Handycam Station.9, 80 Help..83 Holding the camcorder.14
i.LINK..123 i.LINK cable.68, 71, 90, 93 Icon.See Display indicators Image delete button.33 Image protection.77 Image quality (QUALITY).52 Image size (IMAGE SIZE)..52, 54 Movie..54 Still image.52 ImageMixer VCD2.83, 85 Index screen.27 Index screen display button...33 Indicators..34
Macintosh.. 84, 88 Main sound. 62 Mains lead.. 9
NEG.ART..58 NEW FOLDER.55 NightShot..29 NightShot plus..29 NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch..29, 48 NIGHTSHOT switch.29, 49 NORMAL..51 NS LIGHT (NightShot Light)..49 NTSC..118 Number of recordable pictures...52
PICT.APPLI. menu (Picture Application menu). 55 PictBridge.. 78 PictBridge PRINT. 59 Picture Package.. 83 Picture Search.. 27 Pixela user support center. 89 Playback. 27 Double speed.. 60 Frame.. 60 Reverse. 60 Slow.. 60 PORTRAIT (Soft portrait). 45 POWER switch. 9, 14 Pre-installed rechargeable battery.. 126 Previous/Next image button... 33 Print.. 78 Print mark.. 77 PROGRAM AE. 45, 104 PROGRES.REC. 51, 106
REDEYE REDUC.48 REMAINING..64 Remaining battery.32 Remote Commander.36 REMOTE CTRL (Remote control).64 Remote sensor..31 RESET button..31 Reversal Playback.60 Review button..32
S VIDEO cable.39, 68, 71, 93 S VIDEO jack..39, 68, 71, 93 Searching for the starting point...35 Self-diagnosis display.113 SELF-TIMER..49 SEPIA..58 Setting the date and time.19 SHARPNESS..47, 105 Shoulder belt..30 Signal convert function.93 Skip Scan..27
OLD MOVIE.57 ONE PUSH..46 OPEN/EJECT lever.20 Operation confirmation beep.. See BEEP OUTDOOR..46 OVERLAP..56

QUALITY.. 52

P.MENU.See Personal Menu PAL..103, 118 PASTEL..58 PB FOLDER (Playback folder).55 PB zoom.30 Personal Menu.40, 65 Add..65 Arrange the order.66 Customize..65 Delete..66 Reset..66 Use..40 Personal Menu button.32 PHOTO button..24, 26, 36 PICT. EFFECT (Picture effect)..58
SLIDE SHOW..56 Slow Playback..60 SLOW SHUTTR (Slow shutter)..57 SMTH INT.REC (Smooth interval tape recording).58, 106 Software..85 SOLARIZE..58 SP (Standard Play).61 Speaker..31 Specifications.127 SPORTS (Sports lesson).45 SPOT FOCUS.47, 105 SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)..45, 104 SPOTLIGHT.45 SQUEZE (Squeeze).62 Continued ,

REC CTRL (Recording control). 72 REC FOLDER (Recording folder). 55 REC LAMP (Recording lamp).. 64 REC MODE (Recording mode). 61 REC MOVIE. 73 Rec review.. 35 REC START/STOP button.. 24, 26 Recording.. 26 Recording capacity.. 32 Recording lamp.. 31 Recording time. 54
STANDARD.52 STANDARD SET menu.61 STEADYSHOT.51, 101 STEREO.62 STILL..57 Still image Image size..52 Quality..52 Still image format.119 STILL SET..51 Sub sound..62 SUNSET&MOON.45 SUPER NS (Super NightShot)..49 SUPER NSPLUS (Super NightShot plus).48, 105 System requirements.83
Transmitter.. 36 Tripod.. 30 TV.. 38 TV color systems.. 118 TV TYPE.. 39
Wall socket.. 9 Warning indicators.113 Warning messages.113 WHITE BAL. (White balance). 46, 105 WHITE FADER. 55 Wide angle.. 28 WIDE DISPLAY. 62 WIDE SELECT.. 50 WIDE SELECT button. 22 Windows.. 83, 85 WIPE. 56 WORLD TIME.. 65 Write-protect tab. 119, 120
USB CAMERA.. 63 USB jack.. 81 USB SELECT.. 59 Using abroad.. 118
VAR.SPD PB (Various speed playback).. 60 VF B.LIGHT (Viewfinder brightness). 62 VF WIDE DISP (Viewfinder wide display). 62 Video control buttons. 36 Video head.. 125 VIDEO INPUT.. 63 Video operation buttons. 33 Viewfinder.. 16 Brightness. 62 Viewfinder lens adjustment lever.. 16 VOLUME.. 27 V-OUT/PANEL. 64
ZEBRA.. 49 Zero set memory. 36 ZERO SET MEMORY button... 36 Zoom. 28 Zoom lever.. 28
Tape counter..32 Tape playback select button...33 Tape..See Cassette TELE MACRO.48, 105 Telephoto..28 Time code..32 TIME/LANGU. menu..65 Touch panel.17 Trademark.132 TRAIL..57
Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website.

http://www.sony.net/

Printed in Japan