Page 1
SONY
3-755-296-22 (3)
Video Camera Recorder B
_______
CCD-FX310
Operation Manual
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly
and retain it for future reference. ‘
m I
Video 8 Hsiidycsm
C©
1992 by Sony Corporation
Page 2
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
L-AUiluN luHtuu'-.t IHLAIbKiJi LLLClHKJb HOCK.
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
This symbol IS intended to
alert the user to the presence
of uninsulated "dangerous
voltage" within the product's
enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric
shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to
alert the user to the presence
of important operating and
maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
Information for the customers in the U.S.A.
This equipment generates and uses radio
frequency energy and if not installed and used
properly, that is, in strict accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions, may cause
interference to radio and television reception. It
has been type tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B computing device in
accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of
Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to
provide reasonable protection against such
interference in a residential installation. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
Reorient the receiving antenna
Relocate the equipment with respect to the
receiver
Move the equipment away from the receiver
Plug the equipment into a different outlet so
that equipment and receiver are on different
branch circuits.
If necessary, the user should consult the dealer
or an experienced radio/television technician for
additional suggestions. The user may find the
following booklet prepared by the Federal
Communications Commission helpful:
“How to Identify and Resolve Radio-TV
Interference Problems”.
This booklet is available from the U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, DC
20402, Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.
Notice for the customers In Canada
This apparatus complies with the Class B limits for
radio noise emissions set out in Radio Interference
Regulations.
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located on
the bottom. Record the serial number in the
space provided on the right hand. Refer to
these numbers whenever you call upon your
Sony dealer regarding this product.
Model No. CCD-FX310
Serial No.
Page 3
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Before You Begin
About this manual....................................................................................................................................4
Checking supplied accessories...............................................................................................................5
Before you start.......................................................................................................................................5
Getting Started
Charging and installing the battery pack................................................................................................6
Inserting a tape........................................................................................................................................8
Preventing accidental erasure...........................................................................................................8
Adjusting the viewfinder lens...................................................................................................................9
Using the viewfinder as a sports finder..............................................................................................9
Installing the lithium battery..................................................................................................................10
Setting the date and time......................................................................................................................11
Storing a birth date in your camcorder.................................................................................................12
Basic Camera Operation
How to record.................................................................................................................................. 14
Using Zooming Features......................................................................................................................16
Playing Back a tape..............................................................................................................................17
Using the remote commander...............................................................................................................19
Getting the most out of your battery pack............................................................................................20
Advanced Camera Operation
Connecting alternative power sources.................................................................................................22
Using house current........................................................................................................................22
Using car battery.............................................................................................................................23
Camera recording.................................................................................................................................24
Recording the date or time..............................................................................................................24
Putting an AGE on your tape..........................................................................................................24
For low-position recording...............................................................................................................25
Checking the last portion of a scene you just recorded (Rec Review)...........................................26
Checking recording in the viewfinder (EDITSEARCH)...................................................................26
Re-recording on a previously recorded portion (EDITSEARCH)
Helpful hints for recording...............................................................................................................27
Inserting a scene in the middle of a recorded tape.........................................................................28
Recording with an external microphone..........................................................................................29
Connecting a wired remote control unit...........................................................................................29
Manual adjustments..............................................................................................................................30
Maintaining Focus............................................................................................................................30
Compensating for backlighting........................................................................................................30
Using program AE (Auto Exposure)..................................................................................................... 31
Selecting the PROGRAM AE Mode................................................................................................31
Fade-in and fade-out.......................................................................................................................32
Playing back..........................................................................................................................................33
Editing....................................................................................................................................................
...................................................
27
..
Additional Information
Maintenance information.......................................................................................................................
Tips for better camera recording...........................................................................................................
Identifying the parts.............................................................................................44
Indicators inside the viewfinder.............................................................................................................48
Trouble check........................................................................................................................................49
Specifications..............................................................................................................
....................................................................................................................................Back cover
..........................
..
..
51
Page 4
Welcome to Video 8
Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Handycam ® camcorder.
With your Handycam you can capture life’s precious moments with superior
picture and sound quality. Your Handycam is loaded with advanced
features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be
producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come.
This manual shows you how to operate your camcorder. To get the most out of the
features of your Handycam, we recommend you read this manual thoroughly before using.
But if you want to shoot as soon as possible, please read the chapters, Getting Started
and Basic Camera Operation. Once you are familiar with basic operations, you may want
to proceed to the chapter. Advanced Camera Operation.
• When you are reading through this manual, please remember that buttons and settings
on the camcorder are shown in capital letters:
• Use “Identifying the Parts” as an index to look for a function and operation according to
e.g. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.
the indication printed on the camcorder itself.
Note on TV Color Systems
TV color systems are different depending on the countries.
If you want to view the playback picture on a TV, you need an NTSC system based TV or
a PAL-M system based TV with NTSC/PAL-M transcoder (as this is an NTSC system
based camcorder). Please check the list on page 42 to see the TV color system of your
country.
Note on the Supplied RFU adaptor
You can use the supplied RFU adaptor only In the country where you bought this
camcorder. Since each country has its own electricity and TV color system, you may not
be able to use the RFU adaptor when you use the camcorder abroad.
Note on Copyright
Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted.
Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the copyright
laws.
^ Before You Begin
Page 5
Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.
fill
ir-l
Before you can use your camcorder, you need to:
1 Charge and install the battery pack.
2 Insert a tape.
3 Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyes.
4 Install the lithium battery.
5 Set the date and time.
This chapter takes you through these procedures step by step.
I You also need to set the BEEP switch
• The BEEP switch is preset to ON: the camcorder will beep when you start and stop
recording and as a warning of unusual conditions (see page 50). These beeps will
not be recorded on the tape.
• Set the BEEP switch to OFF, to deactivate the beep.
Page 6
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Before you can use this camcorder, you need to charge and install the battery pack
Charging the Battery Pack
1 Plug the AC power adaptor into a wall outlet.
2 Align the flat side of the battery pack with the iine on the AC power adaptor.
3 Push down and slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow
4 Set the CHARGE/VTR switch to CHARGE.
Required charging time:
• jit Bl*jBj US «1» tfr]
Type of battery pack
Required charging time 60 140
When charging is finished, the charge indicator will go out.
Important!
Use the battery completely before recharging!
Before you recharge the battery, make sure the battery has been used (discharged)
completely. Excessive charging may reduce the charging capacity of the battery.
To use up the battery, remove the video cassette and set the POWER switch to
CAMERA with the battery attached, and leave the camcorder until the CXl indicator
appears blinking and a red lamp blinks in the viewfinder.
Option
AC-S10 AC power adaptor.
This adaptor has a function which allows you to confirm that the battery is completely discharged and
ready to be recharged to its full capacity.
Installing the Battery Pack
When you have finished charging the battery, install the battery pack as follows.
NP-56
(supplied)
NP-77H/
NP-77HD
NP-77 NP-66H
120 100
(approx minutes using AC-V35/V35A)
NP-55H
70
0 Getting Started
Page 7
1 Align the flat side ot the battery pack with the white line on the camcorder.
2 Make sure that the arrow on the battery pack is close to the top of the camcorder.
3 Push down and slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.
Notes
• Make sure the battery is securely installed so that it does not fall off. If the battery is not
installed properly, the camcorder will not record accurately.
• You can use the AC power adaptor as a power source when recording indoors.
Removing the battery pack
Slide the ВАТТ switch in the direction of the arrow, and at the same time, slide out the
battery pack to the left.
Battery life and remaining capacity
A fully charged battery pack lasts for:
Type of battery pack
Battery life
NP-55
(supplied)
60
NP-77H/'
NP-77HD
150
NF>-77
120
Mi^-66H
110
NP-55H
75
(approx, minutes, continuous recording when used indoors)
To check the remaining battery capacity, set the POWER switch to CAMERA set the
STANDBY switch up and press TAPE/BATT CHECK. ’
Battery life
Indicator
The decreasing black bar indicates decreasing
battery power. After the black bar disappears the
CX3 indicator will appear and blink and a red
lamp will also blink in the viewfinder. When they
blink rapidly, replace the battery pack.
Notes • The battery life indicator of the camcorder may indicate a different remaining capacity from that of
the NP-77HD battery pack.
• Charge the battery pack when the black bar of the battery life indicator decreases quickly.
Getting Started ~J
Page 8
\
m
Make sure that the battery pack or another power source is attached.
Press the small blue button
1
on the EJECT switch and
simultaneously slide EJECT
in the direction of the arrow.
The cassette compartment
automatically lifts up and opens
toward you.
Insert a tape with the
window facing outside.
Ciose the cassette holder by
pressing the area on the
cassette compartment
marked “PUSH”.
EJECT
V-
s
Preveriting Accldlental Erasur
Slide the red tab closing the window to prevent accidental recording. To re-record on the
tape, slide the tab opening the window.
If you try to record with the red mark exposed, the № and ± indicators flash In the
viewfinder and beeps sound for about 5 seconds.
Notes on handling tapes
Don't insert anything in the small holes on the rear of the cassette. These holes are used to sense the
type and thickness of tape, or if the red mark is exposed or covered, etc. Store tapes in their cases
and keep them in an upright position to prevent intrusion of dusf and uneven winding.
8 Getting Started
Page 9
L
Before using your camcorder for the first time or after another person used it, adjust the
viewfinder lens to best fit your eyesight. Make sure that a battery pack or another power
source is attached to the camcorder.
Using the viewfinder as a sports finder
Your camcorder is equipped with a Sports Finder.
You can use the viewfinder as the sports finder by
turning the viewfinder adjustment ring.
What is a sports finder?
Since this finder has a long focal length, you can
monitor the picture while your eye is at a distance
from the eyecup. The sports finder is convenient
when moving around to shoot scenes.
Setting the viewfinder to the sports finder position
Turn the viewfinder adjustment ring clockwise
completely.
Returning from the sports finder position to the normal viewfinder position
Turn the adjustment ring counterclockwise until the
word “STBY” that appears in the viewfinder comes
into sharp focus.
When storing your camcorder
Turn the viewfinder barrel to the front.
Adjustment ring
Page 10
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To keep birth dates in the camcorder’s memory and to activate the clock, the lithium
battery must be installed.
1 Remove the lithium battery holder
located at the bottom of the
camcorder.
Install the supplied CR2025
lithium battery with the + side
facing down.
+side
Lithium battery life
The battery will last for approximately 1 year in normal operation.
When the lithium battery becomes weak, the ^ indicator will blink in the viewfinder screen
for about 5 seconds when you set the POWER switch to CAMERA. In this case, replace
the battery with a Sony CR2025 or Duracell DL-2025. Use of any other battery may
present a risk of fire or explosion.
When replacing the lithium battery, keep the battery pack or other power source attached.
Otherwise, resetting the date, time and birth dates will be necessary.
Changing the lithium battery
Remove the lithium battery holder from the camcorder, and pull out the lithium battery and
insert a new one.
WARNING Battery may explode if mistreated.
Do not recharge, disassemble, or dispose of in fire.
Cautions • Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children.
Should the battery be swallowed, immediately consult a doctor.
• Do not hold the battery with metallic tweezers, otherwise a short-circuit may occur.
-side
10 Getting Started
Page 11
You need to set your camcorder s date and time to be able to superimpose the date and
time onto your video.
Make sure that the power source and lithium battery are attached.
3,4,5,6
1
Press the small green button on the
POWER switch and slide the POWER
switch to CAMERA.
2 Set the STANDBY switch
up.
Press DATE (+) and TIME (NEXT)
simultaneously for a few
seconds until the date indicator
appears in the viewfinder.
The DATE button now functions as +
(to advance numbers) and the TiME
button functions as NEXT (to set).
Adjust the blinking digits of
the year, month, day, and
hour by using DATE (+), and
by pressing TIME (NEXT).
Notes
• When you keep DATE (+)
pressed, the digits advance
faster.
• The year starts at 1992 and
proceeds as follows:
1992—>1999-^2000—>2020
t
_____________________
I
o
0
0
O
DATE!*) TtMEtNEXT)
I
11:3
1camera/off\player|
POWER
JAN. 1 —1 992,
\ i /
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-iui'^l 1 992j
^
TIMEfNEXT
if
5 Adjust the blinking digits of minute by
pressing DATE (+).
0 Press TIME (NEXT) to set the second to “00”.
The clock starts operating.
Correcting the date and time settings
Repeat steps 3 to 6.
\ * /•
&^30>«0 PM
Getting Started ~\
Page 12
When you preset your child’s birth date in your camcorder, you can put your child’s age in
years and months on your tape. You can also preset the date of an event. Once you enter
the birth date of your child, the clock inside your camcorder will automatically update age
of your child. You can superimpose the age anytime on your recording.You can preset up
to three birth dates or events.
Before you begin
Before you store a birth date in your camcorder, make sure that power source is
connected, that the lithium battery is installed and that the date is correctly set.
How to store birth date
To store a birth date in your camcorder, see the following example and procedure.
Example: Store “Aug. 3, 1987” in memory 2.
1
Press the small green button on the
POWER switch and slide the POWER
switch to CAMERA.
Set the STANDBY switch up.
Press TIME (NEXT) and AGE/EVENT ^
simultaneously for a few seconds until the
“H] BIRTHDAY
........
1900” indicator appears
in the viewfinder.
Press DATE (+) to select [1].
Each time you press DATE (+), the display in the
viewfinder changes as follows:
S BIRTHDAY [U BIRTHDAY
t
------
[3] EVENT*^
---------------
1
DATE(+)
CD
TtME(NEX*n AGE/EVENT
И °l
ir^ I
CAMERA/OFF*\PLAYER|
V
POWER ^
Ч < ✓
[T]«IRTHDAY
^ iS .. 19 0 0
12 Getting Started
* Although “EVENT” is displayed on you can
use it for age as well.
E] and [2] can also be used to record event
dates in memory.
Press TIME (NEXT).
The “1900” indicator blinks.
(continued)
Page 13
Enter the birth date.
First adjust the blinking digits by
pressing DATE (+), and then press
TIME (NEXT).
The age (year and month) appears
when all the items are adjusted.
TIMElNEXn
Sa&tflTHDAY
•“AUG”1 1 987
----------------
-
If you missed the correct number with DATE (+)
Keep pressing DATE (+).
The indicator changes as follows:
Year: 1900-^ 1901 -
T
Current year - (minus) 99
Month: JAN. FEB,
Day: 1 2 -
----------------
■31
Current year
> DEC.
t_____
Correcting/changing the setting
Follow the procedures from step 1 again.
Advancing the digits faster
Keep DATE (+) pressed.
Presetting the year before 1900
1 After step 5 on page 12, keep pressing DATE (+) until the current year is displayed.
2 Press DATE (+) again.
The year goes back 99 years.
(example: 1992 ^ 1893)
3 Go to step 6 above.
© C
(QBI^'f^DAY
AUO-a -4987
----
-V—•
When in 2000
1901 ” is displayed in step 3 on page 12. After that, it advances every year as “1902,
1903
Now it’s ready for recording!
Getting Started 13
Page 14
Chapt
b: -I 1
How to Record
Before you record one-time events, make a trial recording to make sure that your
camcorder is working properly.
Keep the lens clean, or the focus cannot be adjusted properly.
It is very easy to start recording scenes.
Hold the camcorder by putting your
1
hand through the grip belt so that
your thumb can easily press the red
START/STOP button.
By pressing the release on the lens
cap, remove and attach it to the grip
belt.
■
—
Press
Press the small green button on the
POWER switch and slide the POWER
switch to CAMERA.
This puts the camcorder in the camera
recording mode.
Set the PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) switch to the green position.
Set the STANDBY switch up.
“STBY” appears in the viewfinder. Now,
you can see through the viewfinder.
Press START/STOP (red button)
once.
The camera is recording when the word
“REC" appears on the viewfinder screen
and the red lamp lights in the viewfinder.
You can also confirm the start of recording
with beep sound when you have the BEEP
switch turned on.
In the viewfinder you can see a black and white picture of what you are recording and
information that indicates what the camcorder is now doing.
14 Basic Camera Operation
|CAMERA/OFF\PLAYEH|
POWER
red lamp
Page 15
Automatic recording
With the PROGRAM Ah switch set to the green position, all the camera functions are on
automatic (i.e. auto iris, auto white balance, auto focus) and the shutter speed is set at
normal (1/60 second).
To stop recording momentarily
Press START/STOP again. “STBY" appears in the viewfinder. The camcorder beeps twice
when you have BEEP turned on.
When you have finished recording
Turn the STANDBY switch down and slide the POWER switch to OFF.
Ejecting the tape
Make sure that you have attached the battery pack or other power source to the
camcorder.
1 Press the small blue button on the EJECT switch, and at the same time push EJECT in
the direction of the arrow.
2 Take out the tape.
3 Close the cassette holder by pressing the area marked PUSH on the cassette
compartment.
Caution!
Please remember that you can only use 8-mm format video tapes with this camcorder.
You will be able to record tapes in SP (standard play) mode only and play back tapes in both SP
and LP (long play) modes.
Checking the time remaining on the tape
Press TAPE/BATT CHECK.
■-f.
Tape length indicator
After pressing TAPE/BATT CHECK, the time remaining may not be indicated for about 20
seconds. When the time remaining is less than about 5 minutes, the indicator displays the
minutes remaining.
SI
When “5 min” lights, the indicator appears in the viewfinder and blinks.
Note on the tape length indicator
• The camcorder must be in the recording or playback mode when the TAPE/BATT CHECK is
pressed to find out the time remaining. In the playback mode, however, the indicator does not
indicate the minutes remaining.
• The tape length indicator does not change while using EDITSEARCH.
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Basic Camera Operation "| 5
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Page 16
L
Zooming
To zoom
You сап create а professional-looking home video using these sepcial effects; zoom,
close-up, fade-in and fade-out.
Zooming is a recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the scene.
Use “Zoom-in (telephoto)” for dramatic close-ups, and “zoom-out (wide-angle)" for
panoramic long shots. You can also use zooming to focus manually or to decide on a
shooting angle. For more professional-looking recordings, use zooming sparingly.
W(Wide-angle) T(Teleph6to)
Two-level Speed Zooming
The camcorder’s power zoom button offers two-level speed zooming. Press it firmly for
high speed zooming and softly, for relatively slow zooming.
Press the T side of the power zoom button for telephoto (subject appears closer) and the
W side for wide-angle (subject appears farther away).
Focusing In Macro
Even small subjects such as flowers, insects, and images in photographs, can literally fill
the screen using focus in macro.
1 Bring the camcorder as close as necessary to obtain the desired subject size. 2 Press the W side of the power zoom button until the indicator in the viewfinder
stops at the W end.
Note
You can shoot a subject that is at least f m (about 39% iches) away from lens surface in the telephoto
position.
16 Basic Camera Operation
PSP
Page 17
You can use this camcorder as a VCR by connecting it directly to your TV for playback.
After you connect this camcorder to your TV, use the Remote Commander for convenient
control of the camcorder.
If Your TV Has Only an Antenna Input
Use the supplied RFU adaptor to connect your camcorder to your TV. Before connecting,
make sure that the TV is turned off to prevent speaker damage. If your TV has audio/
video inputs, see page 33.
Note
To connect your camcorder to a TV that is aiready connected to a regular TV (VHF)
antenna, you need to:
1 Unplug the antenna cable from your TV first.
Plug in the tail end of the RFU adaptor marked OUT to the antenna input of your TV.
Re-wire the antenna cable you unplugged to the RFU adaptor jack marked ANT. This
way, you can switch between TV broadcasting and your home video playback without
re-wiring.
Connect the RFU adaptor to the camcorder.
Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet.
Set the channel selector on the RFU adaptor (and your TV channel) to 3 CH or 4 CH of
the VHF channel, whichever is not active (vacant) in your area.
Attach the connecting plate of the AC power adaptor to the camcorder.
Make sure the CHARGE/VTR selector on the AC power adaptor is set to VTR position.
CHARGE/VTR selector to OFF or turn off
Basic Camera Operation 17
Page 18
How to Play Back a Tape
1
Press the small green button on the
POWER switch and set the POWER
switch to PLAYER.
Insert a tape. (See page 8.)
yts
POWER
Turn on the TV and select the channel to which you adjusted the RFU adaptor (3 CH or 4 CH).
If you are connecting with audio/video inputs, set your
TV’s TV/VIDEO selector to VIDEO
Press l> (PLAY).
To stop playback, press □ (STOP).
To rewind the tape, press ◄◄ (REW).
To advance the tape rapidly, press ►► (FF).
When you have finished playback
1 Eject the tape, see page 15
2 Slide the POWER switch to OFF.
3 Set the CHARGE/VTR switch on the AC power adaptor to OFF.
1 3 Basic Camera Operation
PLAY
Page 19
! Г|1. i i rt j ; Г4| I L-i i 1111 hi I [■ fa â
By using the Remote Commander, you can be in the picture with your friends and family,
or conveniently control the playback of your tape from a distance.
Insert two size AA (R6) batteries with
1
the + and - ends properly
positioned.
Set the H REMOTE COMMANDER
switch on the battery mounting surface
of the camcorder.
If the battery is attached, remove it.
Reattach the battery after setting the
REMOTE COMMANDER ON/OFF switch.
Set the POWER switch on the camcorder as foliows:
— When camerarecording, 1) press the small green button on the POWER switch
and slide it to CAMERA, 2) set the STANDBY switch up.
— When playing back, slide the POWER switch to PLAYER.
Aim the Commander at the remote
sensor on the camcorder and 2 m (6.6
press the appropriate button on
the Commander.
-Remote sensor
'2 m (6.6 ft)
(Approximate maximum distance and angles for remote control)
Note on the Remote Commander
• Keep the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or illumination
Remote control with the Commander may not function properly ander such circumstances.
• The command mode of the Commander is VTR2 Avoid using the Sony VCRs with the same
command mode at the same time
Getting familiar with some buttons
HOLD switch
When you slide the switch in the direction of the
arrow, all the buttons will become inoperable to
prevent any misoperation should you
accidentally press the buttons.
!► SLOW and DATA SCREEN buttons
You can use the functions of these buttons only
with the Commander.
Battery life In normal operation, batteries last up to six months. If the camcorder does not
operate properly, the batteries might be exhausted. Replace both batteries with new ones
To avoid damage from possible battery leakage
Remove the batteries when you will not use the Commander for a long time.
When you connect the receiver of a remote control kit
When you connect the receiver of a remote control kit (not supplied) to the REMOTE C
control connector, be sure to set the H REMOTE COMMANDER switch on the battery
mounting surface of the camcorder to OFF.
Basic Camera Operation "j Q
HOLD
-!► SLOW
-DATA SCREEN
Page 20
How to Prepare the Rechargeable Battery Pack
Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 or 3 times as much
recording than you have planned.
"Battery life" indicated in this manual is measured by the
continuous recording time of the camcorder, placed at room
temperature using a fully-charged battery
Battery life is shorter in cold climates.
Battery efficiency is decreased and the battery will be used
up more quickly
Set the STANDBY switch of the camcorder down when not
recording to save battery power.
A smooth transition between scenes can be made even if
recording is stopped and started again.
While positioning the subject or selecting an angle, or
looking through the viewfinder lens, the lens moves
automatically inside the camcorder and the battery is used
The battery is also used when a tape is inserted or removed.
When the Rechargeable Battery Pack Should Be Replaced
slow blinking to rapid blinking while you are recording.
battery pack
Notes on Charging
Before using the battery pack, charge it sufficiently.
A brand new battery pack is not charged
Make sure you use up the battery before recharging.
• If recording is completed before the CXH indicator appears in
the viewfinder, it is recommended that you remove the tape,
set the POWER switch to CAMERA, turn the STANDBY
switch up, and leave the camcorder on until the CX3 indicator
blinks rapidly
• When you use the AC-S10 AC power adaptor, the DC-S10
car battery charger or BC-S10 portable battery charger, you
can discharge the battery with their discharging function
• Repeated charging without using up the battery may
cause lowering of battery capacity. However, the original
battery capacity can be recovered if you fully discharge
(use up) and charge the battery again.
Recharge the battery pack after long storage.
If the battery pack is fully charged but not used for a long time (about 1 year), it becomes dischaigeo
Charge It again but in this case the battery life will be shorter than normal After several charging and
discharging cycles, the battery life will recover its original capacity
20 Basic Camera Operation
Page 21
Keep the Terminals Clean
If the terminals (metal parts on the back) are not clean, the battery duration will be shortened.
When the terminals are not clean or when the
battery pack has not been used for a long time,
install and remove the battery pack from time to
time. This will improve the contact condition. Also,
wipe the + and - terminals with a soft cloth or
paper.
Notes on the Rechargeable Battery Pack
Why the battery pack heats up?
During charging or recording, the battery pack
heats up. This means energy has been
generated and chemical change has occurred
inside the battery pack, and this is not
dangerous
How to care for the battery pack
• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using it, and keep it in a cool place.
When the battery pack is in the camcorder, a small amount of current flows to the
camcorder even if it’s turned off. This gradual discharge shortens battery life.
• The battery pack is always discharging even when it is not in use after charging.
Thus, it is recommended you charge the battery right before using.
How to use the switch on the battery pack
This switch is provided so that you can remember
the charging condition. Set the switch to the “no
mark" position when charging is completed. Set
the switch to the “red mark” position when the
battery is used up.
How many times can the battery pack be recharged?
The battery pack can be fully charged and discharged about 500 times under normal
temperatures.
If the CXl indicator blinks rapidly just after turning on the camcorder with a fully charged
battery pack, the battery pack should be replaced with a new fully charged one.
Recommended temperatures during charging
Charging under temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C (5°F to 85°F) is recommended.
Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.
Basic Camera Operation 21
Page 22
Connecting Alternative Pow
You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack (see
page 6), house current, and 12/24 V car battery.
The appropriate power source for you to choose depends on the place where you want to
use your camcorder.
Place Power source Accessory to be used
Outdoors
Indoors House current AC power adaptor AC-V35/V35A (supplied),
In the car
Battery pack
12 Vor 24 V car
battery
m
Battery pack NP-55 (supplied), NP-77H/77HD,
NP-77, NP-66H or NP-55H
AC-V30 orAC-SIO
DC pack DCP-77
Note on power sources
Disconnecting the power source or removing the battery pack during recording or playback may
damage the inserted tape In this case, supply the power again immediately.
Using House Current
The supplied AC-V35/V35A AC power adaptor is required.
1
Align the flat side of the connecting plate with the white line on the camcorder, and push down and slide it in the direction of the arrow.
2
Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet.
3
Set the CHARGE/VTR selector of the AC power adaptor to VTR.
See the instruction manual of the AC power adaptor for details.
To remove the connecting plate
Remove it in the same way as you do with the battery pack. See page 7.
22 Advanced Camera Operaiic
Page 23
Using Car Battery
The DCP-77 DC pack (not supplied] is required.
1
Align the flat side of the DC pack with the white line on the camcorder, and push down and slide it in the direction of the arrow.
2
Connect the cord of the DC pack to the cigarette lighter socket of a car (12 Vor 24 V).
To remove the DC pack
Remove it the same way as you do with the battery pack. See page 7.
Options • BC-77, BC-S10 portable battery charger
You can charge a battery pack on 100 - 240 V AC. BC-S10 has a discharging function, so you can
charge a battery pack whether or not it is used up
• DC-S10 car battery charger with discharging function:
You can charge a battery pack through the cigarette lighter socket
Advanced Camera Operation 23
Page 24
Mriiilirayjt’JBiB
In the previous chapter 'Basic Camera Operation ", you learned the basic recording
operations. This section shows you how to record the date or time, record an age,
re-record a picture and more.
Recording the Date or Time
Date or time can be superimposed on your recording
During camera recording or when in standby mode, press DATE for date indication or TiME for time indication.
The date or time displayed in the viewfinder is recorded with the picture.
To stop recording date or time
Press DATE or TIME again.
The picture recording continues.
Putting an Age on Your Tape
Here s how to put the age of your children in your video while recording.
1 During recording, press START/STOP at the
point where you want to insert the age of a
person or the eiapsed time.
This puts the camcorder in the standby mode.
Press AGE/EVENT to seiect the indicator you want to record.
Each time you press AGE/EVENT, the indicator changes as
follows:
No indicator ^ [T] The first age
r i
[3] The third age <- [2] The second age
An item with ni^resetting is skipped
The U], [2], or indicator goes out after one second.
Press START/STOP.
Recording starts again.
The indicator in the viewfinder is recorded with the
picture
1,3
AGE/EVENT
24 Advanced Camera Operation
Page 25
Note
You cannot add the age later during playing back or editing.
To stop recording the age
Press AGE/EVENT until the indicator goes out.
To change the display while recording
Press AGE/EVENT untii the indicator you want to record is displayed. Recording of the
indicator you seiect starts when |T|, [2], or [3] goes out.
To cancel the stored birth date
1 Perform steps 1 to 4 in “Storing a Birth Date in Your Camcorder’’ on page 12, to select
the memory number to be canceled.
2 Press TIME (NEXT) twice. The month indicator blinks.
3 Press DATE (+) until ‘
............
” appears.
4 Press TIME (NEXT).
The birth date is deieted from the memory and is not displayed when you press AGE/
EVENT.
About memory back-up
The camcorder uses the iithium battery on the bottom to keep the birth date in memory.
The lithium battery iife is approximately 1 year
When you connect the camcorder to a TV during recording
If you do not use the data-screen function by the Remote Commander, the age indicatior
will appear on the TV screen when the E], Ê], or [1] indicator goes out in the viewfinder
and recording starts.
For Low-position Recording
You can also record from low position to get an interesting recording angle.
Set the viewfinder to the sports finder position (page 9) and turn it for the low position
recording. (It can be turned 180 degrees.)
Advanced Camera Operation 25
Page 26
Checking the Last Po
You can check the last portion of a scene you just recorded without changing the setting of
the POWER switch using EDITSEARCH.
1
Put the camcorder in the standby mode by pressing the START/STOP button.
Press the - is) side of EDITSEARCH momentarily.
The last few seconds of the recorded portion will be
played back in the viewfinder. After a few seconds of
playback, the camcorder goes back to the standby
mode, ready for the next recording.
Note on using EDITSEARCH
When you raise the viewfinder and use EDITSEARCH,
hold the viewfinder with your thumb to prevent
movement.
a Sceh^ VoU JU^t PeedRIed (Rec №vte
Checking Recording In the Viewfinder (EDITSEARCH)
You can check the recorded picture in the viewfinder using EDITSEARCH. Sound cannot
be monitored.
c
+ EDITSEARCH
EDITSEARCH
button
1
Press the small green button, and slide
the POWER switch to CAMERA.
Set the STANDBY switch up.
Keep pressing the + or - side of EDITSEARCH to view the playback picture: ^
+ side for the playback picture ^
- side for the playback picture in reverse.
To stop playback
Release EDITSEARCH.
To monitor the sound while viewing the playback picture in the viewfinder
1 Connect an earphone to the ® (earphone) jack.
2 Press the small green button and slide the POWER switch to PLAYER.
3 Press ◄◄ to rewind the tape and press □ where you want to stop.
4 Press C> to start playback.
START/STOP
+ EDITSEARCH - ©
26 Advanced Camera Operation
Page 27
Re-recordlng on a Previously Recoiled Portion (EDITSEARCH)
You can reshoot a scene over the last recorded portion using EDITSEARCH. The
previously recorded portion will be erased.
1
Set the STANDBY switch up.
START/STOP
Look in the viewfinder and find the point from
where you want to begin recording by:
Keep pressing the + side of EDITSEARCH
continuously to advance the picture at a normal
playback speed, or the - side to reverse the picture.
At the desired point, release EDITSEARCH.
Press START/STOP.
Recording begins from the point you released EDITSEARCH.
A smooth transition between scenes can be made after the
pre-recorded portion even if STANDBY is turned down and
turned up, or even if the power is turned off and on again,
provided that the tape is not removed.
♦ EDITSEARCH -©
To pause recording
Press START/STOP again.
To stop recording
Set the STANDBY switch down.
Helpful Hints for Recording
if the tape reaches near the end during recording
The 0^ indicator and the red lamp in the viewfinder and the camera recording/battery
iamp on the camcorder blink slowly. When the tape reaches its end, blinking becomes
rapid and beeps sound for about five seconds (if BEEP is set to ON).
Notes on recording
• To record from the beginning of the tape, run the beginning of the tape for about 15 seconds
before recording. This will avoid missing the starling point when the tape is played back.
• When moving from indoors to outdoors, or vice versa, turn STANDBY up and point the
camcorder at a white object for about 10 seconds so that the white balance is properly
adjusted.
Note on standby mode
If you leave the camcorder in the standby mode for 5 minutes or more, the camcorder will
be automatically turned off. To resume the standby mode, turn STANDBY down and turn it
up again. To start recording, press START/STOP directly.
Note on light sources
If you are shooting a subject in bright conditions just after shooting in a dark place, the picture
may not appear in the viewfinder. In this case, point the camcorder in the other direction.
Advanced Camera Operation 27
Page 28
Insertind A Scerrelrii
You can insert a scene in the middle of a recorded tape by setting the starting point and
ending point. A previously recorded portion will be erased.
Press the small green button and slide
the POWER switch to CAMERA.
Set the STANDBY switch up.
While looking in the viewfinder, keep
pressing the + or - side of EDITSEARCH
and release the button where you want to
end the insertion.
The camcorder enters the standby mode again.
of a Recorded Tape
POWER
START/STOP
i
+ EDITSEARCH -©
2
4 Press COUNTER RESET.
The counter is reset to zero.
COUNTER RESET
5 While looking in the viewfinder, keep
pressing the - side of EDiTSEARCH and
reiease the button at the point where you
want to s^art the insertion.
6 Press ZERO MEM.
The insert ending point is stored in memory.
Press START/STOP.
Insert recording begins. The insert recording
stops automatically at the counter zero point.
To cancel the ZERO MEM
Press ZERO MEM.
Note The picture may be distorted at the ending point ,ien played back
28 Advanced Camera Operation
c
+ EDITSEARCH -©
START/STOP
STBY
0 00 00
STBY
' ZERO MEM
Page 29
Reòòfding with flin Exié
You can connect an external microphone (not supplied) to the MIC jack. This jack also
accepts a "plug-in-power" microphone.
Attach the microphone to the accessory shoe of the camcorder.
If the microphone has two plugs, connect the DC IN plug to the RFU DC OUT jack on the
camcorder.
gammi
Note
When recording with an external microphone, wind noise is not muted.
Connecting a Wired Remote Control Unit
When you connect a wired remote control unit or editing controller (not supplied) to the C
REMOTE control connector, you can operate your camcorder from a distance.
About C (LANC)
C stands for Local Application Control Bus System. The C connector is used for
controlling the tape transport of video equipment and peripherals connected to it. This
connector has the same function as the connectors indicated as CONTROL L or
REMOTE.
e REMOTE control
connector
Advanced Camera Operation 29
Page 30
The camcorder’s automatic functions offer you worry-free operation under most shooting
conditions. But in some circumstances, manual adjustment is better for effective recording.
You can manually maintain focus and compensate for backlighfing wifh this camcorder.
Some shooting situations may call for using some items manually, while others may call
for using them automatically.
The previous manual settings are retained, as long as you do not remove the battery,
even if you sef the POWER switch to OFF.
Maintaining Focus
Your camcorder may automatically
refocus on a subject other than the
desired subject.
In such cases, use the PUSH FOCUS
HOLD button or the FOCUS HOLD
switch to keep the desired subject in
focus.
Hold down the PUSH FOCUS HOLD
button.
The focus is maintained and the ©■
indicator is displayed while you hold
down this button.
To maintain the focus without having to
keep pressing the PUSH FOCUS HOLD
button, use the FOCUS HOLD switch:
While pressing the PUSH FOCUS HOLD
button, slide the FOCUS HOLD switch in
the direction of the arrow. You may now
release the PUSH FOCUS HOLD button.
Your camera’s focus is held and the [©■
indicator appears in the viewfinder.
To resume automatic focus, slide the
FOCUS HOLD switch in the opposite
direction of the arrow.
Note
When using a Sports Pack or Marine Pack, set the FOCUS HOLD switch in the direction of the arrow.
PUSH
FOCUS HOLD
Compensating for Backlighting
In this camcorder, the exposure is automatically controlled. However, when shooting a
subject that is backlit, that is, if the light source is coming in from the back of the subject,
use the BACK LIGHT button to get natural exposure.
After shooting
Be sure to release this adjustment condition by pressing BACK LIGHT again
(The L3 indicator goes out.) ’
Otherwise, the picture will be too bright under normal lighting condition.
30 Advanced Camera Operation
Page 31
When you use the PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) function, you can give a portrait'
effect (the object is in focus and the background is out of focus) or capture high-speed
action with “sports” mode or “high speed shutter” mode. Select from three types of mode
referring to the following table.
To choose best programmed AE mode
When shooting:
A still subject such as person or a flower
Zooming in a subject in the telephoto mode
A subject behind such obstacle as a net
Outdoor sports scene such as football, tennis
or golf
A landscape in a moving car
A golf swing or a tennis match with the tennis
ball captured clearly
Playing back certain scenes with high speed
movements in a clear, sharp picture
Selecting the PROGRAM AE Mode
Select:
(Portrait mode)
(Sports mode)
■t
(High speed
shutter mode)
To resume the automatic mode
Set the PROGAM AE switch to the green position.
Notes • When recording under fluorescent, sodium, or mercury lamp, the brightness of the recorded picture
may vary, or the color of the recorded picture may become unnatural.
• The shutter speed in each PROGRAM AE mode is as follows.
Portrait mode - between 1/60 to 1/2000
Sports mode - between 1/60 to 1/500 ^ j
High speed shutter mode - 1/4000 Advanced Camera Operation \
Page 32
Si*
You сап fade-in or fade-out to give your lecording a professional appearance
When fading-in, the picture will gradually appear from black.
The sound will also gradually increase.
When fading-out, the picture will gradually fade to black. The sound will also decrease.
When fading-in
1 Press FADER after setting the STANDBY switch up to
put the camcorder into standby mode.
The FADER indicator starts blinking.
2 Press START/STOP.
The FADER indicator stops blinking and the recording starts fading in.
START I STOP
When fading-out
1 Press FADER while recording.
The FADER indicator starts blinking.
2 Press START/STOP.
The FADER indicator stops blinking and the picture fades out
and the recording stops
To cancel the fade-in/out function
Before pressing START/STOP, press FADER again.
Using the fade-in/ouf function repeatedly
Start from step 1 each time.
When the date/time (page 24), or age (page 24), is displayed
The date/time, or age does not fade-in or fade-out.
Ч I
•FADER —
I ^
START 1 STOP
32 Advanced Camera Operation
Page 33
In the earlier section (page 17) we explained the basic connection to your TV with the RFU
adaptor. In this section we discuss several other ways of connecting to your TV.
Connecting a TV with Audlo/VIdeo Inputs
There are several ways to connect your camcorder to your TV. If your TV has audio/video
inputs, use an A/V cable. Before connecting, make sure that your TV is turned off to
prevent speaker damage. If your TV has only an antenna Input, see page 17.
Use an AA/ cable to connect your TV and camcorder:
[a] If your TV is a stereo type, use the VMC-910MS/920MS A/V connecting cable
(not supplied).
[b] If your TV IS a monoaural type, use the VMC-710M/720M A/V connecting cable
(not supplied).
Connect the AC adaptor to a wall outlet.
Attach the connecting plate of the AC power adaptor to the camcorder.
Set the CHARGE/VTR selector on the AC power adaptor to VTR (DC OUT).
Advanced Camera Operation 33
Page 34
Connecting to a TV via a VCR
If your TV has no AUDIO/VIDEO input jacks
Disconnect the antenna connection between the TV and the VCR, and connect the RFU
adaptor to the VHF/UHF input of the TV and VHF/UFIF output of the VCR.
If your TV has AUDIO/VIDEO input jacks
Connect Audio and Video from the camcorder to the VCR instead of to the TV. Set the
input selector of the VCR to LINE, if available.
AC-V35/V35A
VHF/UHF
VHF/UHF
vTf
TV
VCR
34 Advanced Camera Operation
Page 35
Playing Back a Tape In Various Speeds
The supplied wireless Remote Commander is useful to control the camcorder from a
distance When using it, be sure to set the 19 REMOTE COMMANDER ON/OFF switch to
ON.
To make the same indications in the viewfinder on the TV (only on the Commander)
Press DATA SCREEN.
To turn the indications off, press it again.
This DATA SCREEN on TV will tell you which playback mode you are using.
To view the still picture (playback pause)
Press II during playback
II appears in the viewfinder.
To resume normal playback, press [> or II.
Note
When the still picture mode lasts for 5 minutes or more, the camcorder automatically
enters the stop mode.
To view the picture at 1/5 speed (slow playback) (only on the Commander)
Press !► during playback .
!► appears in the viewfinder.
Note
To resume normal playback, press I>.
When slow playback lasts for 1 minute or more, the playback at the normal speed starts automatically
To locate the desired scene (picture search)
Keep pressing « or^>- during playback or in the still picture mode. ® or @ appears m
the viewfinder.
To resume normal playback, release the button.
To locate the desired scene quickly (skip scan)
Press ◄◄ during rewinding or ►► during advancing the tape rapidly. ® or ® appears m
the viewfinder.
To resume normal playback, press t>.
About the playback picture
During the various playback modes, streaks appear on the screen.
Advanced Camera Operation 35
Page 36
Using the Tape Counter
During recoiding oi playback, the digits on the counter indicate the actual recording oi
playback time.
To count the whole tape
Press COUNTER RESET at the beginning of the tape so that the counter shows "0:00 00"
Write down the counter reading at a particular point so that you can easily find that point
later by referring to the tape counter.
To return to a preset point
During playback, press COUNTER RESET reset
1
at the point you later want to locate.
The counter shows “0:00;00".
Press □ when the playback has finished, as usual.
STOP
Press ZERO MEM.
The "ZERO MEM" indicator blinks in the
viewfinder
Be sure to press ZERO MEM after you
stop the tape. It does not function during
recording or playback
Press ◄◄ or I
4 Press ◄◄
The tape rewinds or advances and stops automatically
when the counter reaches approximately zero.
Notes on the tape counter and the ZERO MEM button
• Something must be recorded on the tape in order for the tape counter to function
The tape counter will not work on blank tape
• The counter reading and the point of the tape may not correspond exactly Use the counter as a
guide
There will be a time lag of several seconds especially when you repeal fast-forward running/
rewinding and play back the tape recorded in LP and SP modes mixed
• The ZERO MEM mode is cancelled automatically once the tape is rewound or sent forward to the
point where you pre-registered
36 Advanced Camera Operation
ZERO MEM
•
REW®
S n 0
b
(K1 29"
-ZERO MEM
l®FF
^ i ^
Page 37
[»lilllLtI
Editing Taii^S i»lth a VCR
You can edit a tape with an additional fcl 8mm, fD Betamax or vhs VHS format VCR.
How to connect
Make connections using the appropriate A/V cabie (such as Sony VMC-710M/720M for
monaural VCR or VMC-910MS/920MS for stereo VCR) and set the CHARGE/VTR
selector on the AC power adaptor to VTR. Set the input selector of the VCR to LINE if
available. '
AUDIO
OUT
Advanced Camera Operation 37
Page 38
EE-&
How to edit
Insert a tape to be recorded into recording VCR.
1
Slide EDIT on the camcorder to the direction of the arrow.
Set the POWER switch of the camcorder to PLAYER, then insert the
recorded tape.
Play back a tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where
you want to start editing, then press II PAUSE to set the camcorder to
the playback pause mode.
On the recording VCR, locate the recording starting point and set the
VCR to the recording pause mode.
Press II PAUSE on the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start
editing.
Editing more scenes
Repeat steps 4 to 6.
To stop editing momentarily
Press II PAUSE on the recording VCR.
To stop editing
Press □ STOP on both VCRs.
If you use the DATA SCREEN function
The indicators displayed on the TV screen wiil also be recorded. If you don't want to
record these indicators, press DATASCREEN on the Commander.
Using of the EDIT switch
When you set EDIT to the direction of the arrow (EDIT ON), you can keep picture and
sound deteriorations resulting from editing to the minimum. Avoid using the edited tape for
multiple generations of editing. After editing, be sure to set this switch in the opposite
direction of the arrow (EDIT OFF).
38 Advanced Camera Operation
Page 39
jilìKildi »! - li fai
MaìntehHhcèInforfn
•iì
Moisture Condensation
11 the camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may
condense inside the camcorder, on the surface of the tape or on the lens. In this condition,
the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or the unit may not operate
correctly. To prevent possible damage under these circumstances, the camcorder is
furnished with moisture sensors.
However, take the following precautions.
If moisture condenses Inside the unit
Moisture is present inside the camcorder when:
• The ai indicator in the viewfinder blinks.
When the tape is inserted, the A indicator also blinks.
• Several beeps sound continuously for five seconds when the BEEP switch is set to ON
and the tape is inserted.
In such cases, no functions except for tape ejection work.
Eject the tape, turn off the camcorder and leave It with the cassette holder open for
at least 1 hour.
The camcorder can be used again if the ffi indicator does not appear when the power is
turned on again.
If moisture condenses on the surface of the tape
Moisture is present on the surface of the tape when
• The A indicator blinks inside the viewfinder when the
tape is inserted and a tape transport button (O,
etc.) is pressed.
• Several beeps sound continuously for about five seconds
when the BEEP switch is set to ON.
In such cases, no functions except for tape ejection work.
Eject the tape and let the camcorder and the tape sit for at least 1 hour.
The tape can be used again if the ± indicator does not appear when the tape is inserted
and a tape transport button is pressed.
If moisture condenses on the lens
No caution indicators will appear, but the picture becomes dim.
Turn off the power and don't use the camcorder for at least 1 hour.
How to prevent moisture condensation
When bringing the camcorder from a cold place to a warm place, put the camcorder in a plastic
bag and allow it to adapt to room conditions over a period of time.
1 Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag containing the camcorder.
2 Remove the bag when the air temperature inside it has reached the temperature
surrounding it (after about one hour).
Additional Information
39
Page 40
Video Head Cleaning
Slight contamination | 1^ Critical contamination
To ensure a clear picture, clean the video heads periodically
When playback pictures become noisy or hardly visible, the video heads may be contaminated.
In such cases,
1 Clean the video heads with the Sony V8-25CLH cleaning cassette (not supplied),
referring to its instructions.
2 After cleaning, check if the picture is clear by recording or playing back with an ordinary
tape.
3 If the picture is still noisy, repeat cleaning. (Do not repeat cleaning more than 5 times.)
Caution Do not use a commercially available wet-type cleaning cassette It may damage the video heads
Note If the V8-25CLH cleaning cassette is not available in your area, consult your Sony service facility
Viewfinder Cleaning
To clean the viewfinder
40 Additional Information
Page 41
To reattach the eyecup
Tips for Better Ciarif6T%r1=iecdrdirig
How to Achieve Better Camera Recording
Take a good posture for shooting
For hand-held shots, it is important to hold the
camcorder properly.
• Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the
grip belt so that you can easily manipulate the
camcorder with your thumb.
• Place your right elbow firmly against your side.
• Place your left hand under the camcorder to
support it. When adjusting the focus manually,
make sure the camcorder does not move.
• Stand opposite to the subject and take a
comfortable stance.
• Place your eye firmly against the viewfinder
eyecup.
Use a tripod
If you have a tripod for a still camera, you can also
use it with the camcorder. If a tripod is not available,
try placing the camcorder on a tabletop or any other
flat surface of suitable height.
Caution
When attaching a tripod not manufactured by Sony, the
length of the camera mounting screw must be less than
6.5 mm Otherwise the screw may damage the inner part of
the camera.
I
Less than 6 5 mm'
(®/32 inches)
Additional Information 41
Page 42
1^
Keep the horizontal plane level
You can easily determine the horizontai plane by
using the viewfinder frame as a reference.
Plan ahead
If you are going to edit the tape after recording, shoot the scene a little longer to make the
editing easier.
Lighting
Shoot with the sun behind you.
When the light source is behind the subject, or in the following situations, the subject will
be recorded too dark and the background too light.
• The subject Is indoors and there is a window behind the subject.
• Bright sources such as fluorescent or Incandescent lamps are included In the scene.
• You are shooting a person wearing white or shiny clothes In front of a white background.
In this case, the face will be recorded too dark.
Use video light in the dark
To get the best colors, you must maintain a sufficient light level.
Photography lamps or halogen lamps are recommended. For best results, use of Sony
video lights, since their weight and low heat output levels allow safe and direct connection
to the camcorder.
Do not point the light at the camcorder. The high heat from the light may warp the casing
of the camcorder.
For detailed instructions on proper use of the light, read its instruction manual.
•N
■ ■ ■
-^7 7- - ]
Using Your Camcorder Abroad
Each country has its own electricity system and TV color system. Before using your
camcorder abroad, check the following points.
Power Sources
You can use your camcorder in any country with the supplied AC power adaptor within
110 V to 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz.
Difference In Color System
This camcorder is an NTSC system based camcorder. If you want to view the playback
picture on a TV, it must be an NTSC system based TV or a PAL-M system based TV with
NTSC/PAL-M transcoder. Check the following alphabetical list.
NTSC system countries
Bahama Islands, Bolivia, Canada, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica,
Japan, Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan, The Philippines, U.S.A., Venezuela, etc.
PAL system countries
Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany (former West Germany),
Great Britain, Holland, Hong Kong, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, Malaysia New Zealand,
Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, etc.
PAL M system country
Brazil
PAL N system countries
Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay
SECAM system countries
Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Poland, former Soviet Union, etc.
42 Additional Information
Page 43
Precautions
On operation
On care
Operate the camcorder on 6.0 V (battery pack) or 7.5 V (AC power adaptor).
For DC or AC operation, use the accessories recommended in this manual.
Shouid any soiid object or iiquid faii into the casing, unpiug the camcorder and have it
checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further.
Do not hold the camcorder by the viewfinder or the microphone.
Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.
Keep the lens cap on the lens when not using the camera.
Do not wrap up the camcorder and operate it since heat may build up internally.
Keep the camcorder away from strong magnetic fields or mechanical vibration.
Do not let sand get into the camcorder.
When you use the camcorder on a sandy beach or dusty place, protect it from the sand
or dust. Sand or dust may cause the camcorder to malfunction and sometimes the
malfunction cannot be repaired.
Do not let the camcorder get wet.
Keep the camcorder from rain or sea water. It may cause malfunction and sometimes
the malfunction cannot be repaired.
When the unit will not be used for a long time, disconnect the power source and remove
the tape. Periodically turn on the power, operate the camera section and player section
and play back a tape for about 3 minutes.
Clean the lens with a soft brush to remove dust. If there are fingerprints on it, remove
them with a soft cloth. Clean the camcorder body with a dry, soft cloth, or a soft cloth
lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of solvent which
may damage the finish.
Additional Information 43
Page 44
For details on №e use of each part, refer to the pages indicated in the circle.
lu POWER switch
CAMERA; for camera recording
PLAYER: for playing back or editing tapes
OFF: power off
|~2l C REMOTE control connector (stereo mini-minijack) ©
|T| ® (earphone) jack (minijack)
[4] START/STOP button
[U STANDBY switch
[U EDITSEARCH (and © recording review) button © ® ©
[Y] Power zoom (MACRO) button ©
|T| Buiit-in microphone
in EJECT (cassette eject) knob ©
n Cassette hoider
ill] Lithium battery hoider
n Grip beit ®
44 Additional Information
Page 45
[l^ Tape transport buttons ©
t> PLAY (playback)
►► FF (fast-forward)
◄◄ REW (rewind)
□ STOP (stop)
II PAUSE (pause)
[u] Lens cap
[T^ VIDEO output jack (phono jack) ©
[16] RFU DC OUT (RFU adaptor DC output) jack (special minijack)
[TT] audio output jack (phono jack) ©
[D MIC jack (PLUG IN POWER) (mono mini-jack)
[i^ Remote control sensor ®
EDIT switch ©
Hook for shoulder strap
f
Additional Information 45
Page 46
ELiuii мг.1,ш.А|||.-ад|А
Accessory shoe
[23] Remote control sensor ф
[Ml Focus HOLD switch ф
[M PUSH FOCUS HOLD button ф
|2б] Tripod receptacie (bottom)
Щ FADER button ф
[Ml BACK LiGHT button ф
[29] DATE (+) button ф ф ф
[М TIME (NEXT) button ф ф ф
[ЗЦ AGE/EVENT button ф ф
[М[ PROGRAM АЕ selector ф ф
[ЗЗ] ВАТТ (battery eject) knob О
[Ml Hook for shoulder strap
Additional Information
46
Page 47
1351 Viewfinder
HH Camera recording/battery lamp ®
[37] COUNTER RESET button © ©
ZERO MEM button © ©
IMl TAPE/BATT CHECK button O ©
1^ Viewfinder adjustment ring O
BÎ] Eyecup
[«] BEEP ON/OFF switch ©
M ® REMOTE COMMANDER ON/OFF switch ©
IM] Battery mounting surface
Additional Information
47
Page 48
wireless Remote Commsnder
Inside the Viewfinder
|T| o PLAY (play back) button ©
|T| ◄◄ REW (rewind) button ©
[3] □ STOP button
HII PAUSE button ©
m DATA SCREEN button ©
[6] HOLD switch* ®
[7] START/STOP button
[si FF ►► (fast forward) button ©
[9] Power zoom button
[1^ !► SLOW (slow playback) button'
©
Note
The * indicates the functions which are
operable only with the commander.
Additional Information
48
[a] Focus Is maintained (©■)
[b] BACK LIGHT is pressed ((3)
[c] PROGRAM AE setting (aa,HK, n
[d] Power zoom indicator
[e] FADER is pressed
[f] “Exchange battery” (iXl)
[g] Moisture has condensed (IS)
[h] Lights up during recording
When blinking: “Exchange
battery or tape”
[i] Playback mode (LP)
[j] Tape transport mode
[k] Tape counter
[l] Remaining time of tape
[m] ZERO MEM is pressed
[n] “Exchange tape or no tape
inside” (№)
[0] “Trouble has occurred" (^)
“Clean video heads” (©)
[p] Remaining capacity of a battery
[q] Age
Date or Time
[r]
“Replace lithium battery” (^)
[s]
Page 49
I
^ “
|il^
If you run into any problems during operation, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem.
Should the difficulty persist, unplug the unit and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony
service facility.
Symptom
The power does not turn
on.
The power turns off.
The battery pack is quickly
discharged.
The START/STOP button
does not operate.
The tape cannot be
removed from the
compartment.
No function except for tape
ejection works.
The tape does not move
when a tape transport
button is pressed.
The autofocusing function
does not work.
The image on the
viewfinder screen is not
clear.
A vertical band appears
when a subject such as
lights or a candle flame is
shot against a dark
background.
The playback picture is not
clear.
The picture is noisy.
Cause
The battery is not attached. Attach the battery.
The battery is used up.
The AC power adaptor is not
connected to a wall outlet.
While being operated in CAMERA
mode, the camcorder has been in the
pause mode for more than 5 minutes.
The battery is used up.
The ambient temperature is too low.
The battery pack has not been
charged fully.
The tape is affixed to the drum.
The tape is at its end.
The POWER switch is set to VTR.
The tab on the tape is out (red).
The battery is used up.
Moisture condensation has occurred.
(See page 39.)
The POWER switch is set to
CAMERA or OFF.
The tape is at its end.
FOCUS HOLD switch is set to the
direction of the arrow.
(See page 30).
The viewfinder lens is not adjusted.
The contrast between the subject and
background is too high; the camera is
not malfunctioning.
EDIT is set in the direction of the
arrow.
The channel or input for the
camcorder is not selected on the TV.
The video heads may be
contaminated.
Corrective actions
Use a charged battery.
Connect the adaptor to a wall
outlet.
Turn down the STANDBY
switch, and turn it up again.
Use a charged battery.
Charge the battery pack again.
Eject the tape.
Rewind the tape or use a new
one.
Set it to CAMERA.
Use a new tape or slide the tab.
Use a charged battery or the
AC power adaptor.
Remove the tape and don’t use
the camcorder for at least an
hour.
Set it to PLAYER.
Rewind the tape or use a new
one.
Set the FOCUS HOLD switch
to the opposite direction of the
arrow.
Adjust the viewfinder lens.
Set EDIT in the opposite
direction of the arrow.
Select correctly.
Clean the heads using the
Sony V8-25CLH (See page
40.) cleaning cassette.
—
—
Additional Information
49
Page 50
■
If an Indication blinks in the viewfinder screen or a caution lamp on the main unit blinks, check the
following table.
Camera operation
VCR operation
Camera operation
Camera operation
VCR operation
slow blinking Q
Symptom Cause
cX]
Battery lamp
£Xl
Battery lamp
Battery lamp
Battery lamp
Beeps
m
±
\Eor±
e
Caution lamp
Caution lamp
flashes for 5 seconds in
the viewfinder after setting
the POWER switch to
CAMERA.
Beeps
Beeps
Beeps
_____
^ fast blinking
The battery is weak.
The battery is used up.
The tape is at its end.
The tape is near its
end.
No tape is inserted. Insert a tape.
The tab on the tape is
out (red).
Moisture condensation
has occurred.
The gap of the head is
ciogged.
Other troubles may
occur.
The iithium battery is
not instailed.
The iithium battery is
exhausted.
The lithium battery is
weak.
Corrective actions
Prepare a charged one.
Use a charged battery.
Use a new tape.
Prepare a new one.
Slide the tab.
Remove the tape and
leave the camcorder for
at least an hour.
Clean the head using the
Sony V8-25CLH video
head cleaning tape.
Consult your nearest
Sony dealer.
Install a lithium battery
with the battery pack or
other power source
attached. Otherwise, you
must readjust the date,
time and birth dates.
50 Additional Information
Page 51
4»%ULLti;U!li*iJU:rA
System
Video recording system
Audio recording system
Video signal
Usable cassette
Tape speed
Recording time
Playback time
Fast forward/rewind time
Image device
Viewfinder
Lens
Color temperature AUTO
Minimum illumination
Illumination range 2 lx to 100,000 lx
Recommended illumination
Aperture correction Automatic
Rotary two heads, Heiicai
scanning FM system
Rotary head, FM system
NTSC color, EIA standards
8 mm video format cassette
SP mode: Approx. 1.43 cm
{'®/з2 inch)/sec.
LP mode: Approx. 0.72 cm
(Vi6 inch)/sec.
(playback only)
SP mode: 2 hours (P6-120)
SP mode: 2 hours (P6-120)
LP mode: 4 hours (P6-120)
Approx. 6 min. 30 sec. (P6-120)
CCD (Charge Coupled Device)
Electronic viewfinder
(black and white)
Combined 8x power zoom lens
f=6.1 to 48.8 mm (’A to 1 'Vie
inches)
Approx. 44 to 352 mm (1% to
13Ve inches) converted into the
focal length of a 35-mm still
camera.
F 1.6 with macro
Filter diameter: 37 mm (1 '/2
inches)
TTL autofocus system inner focus
wide macro system
2 lx
(0.2 to 9294 footcandles)
More than 100 lx
(9 footcandles)
With backlight adjustment
Input and output connector
Video output Phono jack, 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms
Audio output Phono jack
unbalanced sync negative
Output: -7.5 dBs, (at output
impedance 47 kilohms)
impedance less than
1 kilohms
RFU DC OUT Special minijack, 5 V DC
Earphone jack Minijack, 8-ohm impedance
Remote C jack Stereo mini-minijack
MIC jack Minijack, -66 dBs, low impedance
Microphone power output jack
with 2.5 to 3 V DC output,
impedance 6.8 kilohms
Special minijack, 5 V DC
General
Power requirements
Power consumption
Installation Vertically, horizontally
Operating temperature
Storage temperature
Dimensions Approx. 118 x 108 x 265 mm
Weight Approx. 820 g (1 lb 13 oz)
Microphone Electret condenser microphone,
On battery mounting surface
6.0 V (battery pack)
7.5 V (AC power adaptor)
5.5 W (camera recording)
including the viewfinder
0°C to 40°C (32“Fto 104°F)
-20°C to -i-60°C
{-4°F to-!-140°F)
(w/h/d) (4% X 4% X IOV2 in.)
excluding the battery pack, lithium
battery, and cassette
Approx. 1012 g (2 lb 3 oz)
including the battery pack
NP-55, lithium battery CR2025,
and cassette P6-120
uni-directional, monaural type
Wireless Remote Commander
Remote control system
Command mode
Power requirements
Dimensions
Weight
Design and specifications are subject to change without
notice.
Infrared control
VTR2
3 V DC, 2 size AA (R6) batteries
Approx. 48 X 19 X 130 mm (w/h/d)
(1 'V16 X % X 5Vb inches)
Approx. 50 g (1.8 oz)
(excluding batteries)
Additional Information
51
Page 52
AC Adaptor
Accessory Shoe
Adjusting Viewfinder.....................................................9
Age Button..............................................................12, 25
Audio Output...............................................................33
Audio/Video Cable......................................................33
B
Back Light...................................................................30
Battery
Battery lamp................................................................50
Battery Pack
Beep............................................................................ 5
c
______________________________________
Camera Mode
Camera Recording Lamp
Car battery operation..................................................23
Charging Battery...........................................................6
Cleaning Video Head..................................................40
Clock Set......................................................................11
Close-up......................................................................16
Connection...................................................................17, 33
Counter Reset..............................................................28, 36
D.E
Data Screen................................................................35
Date/Time
Dew Indication
Earphone Jack............................................................26
Edit Switch..................................................................38
Editing.........................................................................37
Editsearch...................................................................26
Eject............................................................................15
Exposure....................................................................31
External Microphone Jack
Eyecup........................................................................40
F,G,H
Fade in/Fade out.........................................................32
Fast-Forward
Focus Hold..................................................................30
High Speed Shutter....................................................31
Hold Switch.................................................................19
l,J,K,L
Indoor..........................................................................22
Insert...........................................................................28
LANC...........................................................................29
Lens Cap.....................................................................14
Lithium Battery............................................................10
....................................................................
...........................................................
______________________________
..........................................................................
.................................................................
.............................................................
_________________________________________
...................................................................
............................................................
...........................................
.......................................
...29
_________________________
..............................................................
__________________________
6, 22
29
6
6
14
15
24
39
18
M,N,0,P
Pause Button
Play.............................................................................18
Playback on TV
PLAYER Mode............................................................18
Portrait Mode..............................................................31
Power Sources
Power Zoom
Program AE................................................................31
Push Focus Hold
..............................................................
...........................................................
...........................................................
...............................................................
........................................................
_____
35
17, 33
22
16
30
R_____________________________
Rec Review.................................................................26
Record/Pause.............................................................15
Remote Commander
Remote Control Jack..................................................29
Rewind........................................................................18
RFU Adaptor...............................................................17
s
_____________________
Shoulder Strap............................................................46
Skip-scan
Slow
Specifications
Sports finder..................................................................9
Sports Mode...............................................................31
Standby.......................................................................15
Still Picture..................................................................35
Stop.............................................................................18
Supplied Accessories
T,u,v
Tape/Batt Check
Tape Counter..............................................................36
Tripod Mounting
Troubles
VHF Antenna
Video Cassette Tapes
Viewfinder Indicator
....................................................................
............................................................................
________________________
......................................................................
W,X,Y,Z
Warning ......................................................................50
Wireless Remote Commander
Zero Mem.....................................................................28, 36
Zoom...........................................................................16
..................................................
.............................................................
...................................................
......................................................
.........................................................
...............................................................
...
..............................................
....................................................
19
35
35
51
7,15
41
_______________________
...................................
5
49
17, 33
8
48
19
If you have any question about this product, you may call:
Sony Customer Information Center
East Coast : 201-930-7669 (SONY) NJ
Central : 708-250-7669 (SONY) IL
West Coast : 714-821-7669 (SONY) CA
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan
or write to:
Sony Customer Information Center
Sony Drive, Mail Drop #T1 -11,
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
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