Sony CCD-TR54 User Manual

SONY.

3-800-475-23 (1)

Video Camera

Recorderm

CCD-TR44ITR54ITR64/TR74/TR84ITR94

Operation Manual

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

Owner's Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the
serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers
whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.

Model No. CCD-

Serial No

______

31995 by Sony Corporation

Model No. AC­Serial No.--------

Welcome to video ID

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

WARNING

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

CAUTION

CAUTION : TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

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.

RECYCLING NICKEL-CADMIUM BATTERIES

NICKEL-CADMIUM BATTERY.
MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY.

For the Son\’ Serx'ice C enter nearest \'on call
! -800-222-SON’^' (Lhiited Stales onl\-),
lT>r the i^Ktory Service C'entei nearo''! \’ou call

-416-49S-SC')NY (CSinada onhS.

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking nickel-

cadmium batteries.

For the Customers in the U.S.A.

WARNING

This equipment has been tested and fi^und to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This oi.|inpnient
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequonev energx
and, if not installed and used in accordance witli (lie
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radit>
or television reception, whicli can be determined b\'
turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by tine or
more of the following measures;
— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
— Increase the separation between the equipment and

receiver.

— Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit

different from that to which the receiver is connected

— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV

technician for help.

You are cautioned that anv changes or modifications not
expressly approved in this manual could void your
authority to operate this equipment.

Nickel-Cadmium batteries are
recyclable. You can help preserve our
environment by returning your
unwanted batteries to your nearest

Nl-Cd

Note: In some areas the dispiisal of nickel-cadmium

batteries in household or business trash may be
prohibited.

Sony Service Center or Factory
Serx’ice Center for collection, recycling
or proper disposal.

For the Customers in CANADA

CAUTION

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, TO NOT USE Tl IIS

POLARIZED AC PLUC WITH AN EXTENSION CORD,
RECEPTACLE OR OTHER OLTI.ET UNLESS THE
BLADES CAN BE EULL'i INSERTED TO I’REVEN I
BLADE EXPOSURE

Table of Contents

Before You Begin

Notes and Precautions 4
Checking Supplied Accessories 5
Checking Your Model Number 6

Getting Started

Charging and Installing the Battery Pack 7
Inserting a Cassette 11

Basic Operations

Camera Recording 12

Using the Zoom Feature 15

Hints for Better Shooting 16
Checking the Recorded Picture 17
Connections for Playback 18
Playing Back a Tape 19

Advanced Operations

Using Alternatii^ Power Sources 21
Recording with the Date or Time 23
Using the PRCXIRAM AE Function 24
Shooting with Backlighting 25
Shooting Scenery in Several Short Takes 26

Superimposing a Title 27
Using the STEADY SHOT Function (CCD-TR84/TR94 only) 28
Changing the Mode Settings 29
Editing onto Another Tape 30

■

Additional Information

Changing the Lithium Battery in the Camcorder 31
Resetting the Date and Time 33
Playback Modes 34
Tips for Using the Battery Pack 34
Maintenance Information and Precautions 38
Using Your Camcorder Abroad 42
Trouble Check 43
Specifications 46
Identifying the Parts 48
Warning Indicators 55
Index Back cover '

I Before You Begin

Notes and Precautions

Note on TV Color Systems

TV color systems are different depending on the countries. If you view the playback picture on a TV, vou
need an NTSC system based TV. When you want to use a PAL M system based TV, you wilt need an

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.

Precaution 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.

Precautions on Camcorder Care

• Do not let the camcorder get wet. Keep the camcorder from rain or sea water. It may cause a

malfunction and sometimes the malfunction cannot be repaired, [a]

• 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 unit to malfunction and sometimes the malfunction cannot be repaired, [b]

• Never leave the camcorder under temperatures above 140° F (60 °C), such as in a car parked in the sun
or under direct sunlight, [c]

See "Precautions" on page 41 as well.

Checking Supplied Accessories

m NP-33 Battery Pack (1) (p. 7)
[2] A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 18)
[3] Shoulder strap (1) (p. 51)

S] AC-V15/V16/V16A AC power adaptor (1) (p. 7, 21)

[5] CR2025 Lithium Battery (1) (p. 31) ,

Already installed in the camcorder.

[6] Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 19, 51)

For CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74/TR84/TR94 only

[7] Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p. 52)

For CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74/TR84/TR94 only

Battery case (1) (p. 22)

Checking Your Model Number

The instructions in this manual are for six models listed below. Before you start reading and operating,
check your model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. Tl-ie CCD-TR54 is the model used
for illustration purposes. Otherwise, the model name is indicated in the illustrations. Any differences in
operation are clearly indicated in the text, for example, "For CCD-TR84 only".
As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on the camcorder are shown in capital letters,
e g. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

Types of Differences

Model

CCD-TR44
CCD-TR54
CCD-TR64
CCD-TR74
CCD-TR84
CCD-TR94

Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not made due to a

malfunction of the camcorder, video tape, etc.

Remote

Commander

•

•

e

• • •

•

Viewfinder Zoom

Black and white

•

•

Color

•

•

•

lOx

•

12 X

•

•

Steady Shot

12x 24x

•

O

•

•

Getting Started

Charging and Installing the Battery Pack

Before using your camcorder, you first need to charge and install the battery pack. To charge the battery
pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor.

Charging the Battery Pack

Charge the battery pack on a flat place without vibration.
(1) Connect the AC power adaptor to the w'all outlet.
(2) Align the right side of the battery pack with the line on the AC pow'er adaptor, then slide the battery

pack in the direction of the arrow.

(3) Set the selector to CHARGE. The CHARGE lamp (orange) lights up. Charging begins.
When charging is completed, the CHARGE lamp goes out. Unplug the unit from the mains, and then
remove the battery pack and install it on the camcorder.

S

o

Charging Time

Battery pack

Charging

time*

* Approximate minutes to charge an empty p^ck usijig the supplied AC power adaptor (Lower

temperatures require a longer charging time.)

NP-33

(supplied)

60 215 190

NP-98/98D

NP-SO/80D

NP-68/66H NP-C65 NP-60D

125

105 90

Charging and Installing the Battery Pack

Battery Life

CCD-TR44/TR54

Battery pack

Typical recording time*
Continuous recording time**

CCD-TR64

Battery pack

Typical recording time*
Continuous recording time**

CCD-TR74

Battery pack

Typical recording time*
Continuous recording time**

CCD-TR84

Battery pack

Typical recording time*
Continuous recording time**

NP-33

(supplied)

NP-33

(supplied)

NP-33

(supplied)

NP-33

(supplied)

NP-98/98D

.so
90

45
85

45
85

45 155 135 95
80 275 240 165

175
305 265

NP-98/98D

170
300

NP-98/98D

160
280

NP-98/98D NP-80/800 NP-68/66H

NP-80/80D

150

NP-80/80D

145
255

NP-80/80D

140
245 170

NP-68/66H

105
180

NP-68/66H

100 85
175 155

NP-68/66H NP-C65

95

NP-C65

85

155

NP-C65

80

145

NP-C65

80 65

145

NP-60D

75

135

NP-60D

70

130

NP-60D

70

125

NP-60D

120

CCD-TR94

Battery pack

Typical recording time*
Continuous recording time**

Approximate minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/stop, zooming and turning
the power on/off. The actual battery life may be shorter.
Approximate continuous recording time indoors.

NP-33

(supplied)

NP-98/98D

45 155
80 270 230 160

NP-80/80D NP-68/66H NP-C65 NP-60D

130 90 75

8

65

140 115

Checking the Recorded Picture

Using EDITSEARCH, you can review the last recorded scene or check the recorded picture in the

viewfinder.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, turn it to CAMERA.

(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) Press EDITSEARCH. Press the - O) side momentarily, the last few seconds of the recorded portion

plays hark (Rec Review).

Mold down the - side of EDITSEARCH until the camcorder goes back to the scene you want. The last

recorded portion is played back. To go forward, hold down the + side (Editsearch).

To Begin Re-recording

Press START/STOP. Re-recording begins from the point you released EDITSEARCH. Provided you do
not eject the cassette, the transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene you record
will be smooth.

17

Charging and installing the Battery Pack

Installing the Battery Pack

(1) Insert the top of the battery pack into the top of the battery mounting surface
(2) Push the battery pack so that it attaches firmly.

Removing the Battery Pack

Slide ВАТТ, and then pull the lower part of the battery pack.

10

Inserting a Cassette

Make sure that a power source is installed.

(1) While pressing the small blue button, slide EJECT in the direction of the arrow. The cassette

compartment automatically opens.

(2) Insert a cassette (not supplied) with the window facing out.

(3) Press the PUSH mark on the cassette compartment to close it. The cassette compartment

automatically closes.

i': You can hear the beep sound to confirm your operation.

To Eject the Cassette

While pressing the small blue button, slide EJECT in the direction of the arrow.

To Prevent Accidental Erasure

Slide the tab on the cassette to expose the red mark.
If you insert the cassette with the red mark exposed and close the cassette compartment, the beeps sound
for a while. If you try to record with the red mark exposed, the [3^ and i: indicators flash in the
viewfinder, and you cannot record on the tape. To re-record on this tape, slide the tab back out to cover
the red mark.

3

(C

•3

3

5'

(O

11

Basic Operations

I

Camera Recording

Make sure that a power source and a cassette is inserted.
When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time to your time (p.

33) before you start recording. When you reset the date and time, the date is automatically recorded for
10 seconds after you start recording (AUTO DATE feature). This feature works only once a day
Before you record one-time events, you may want to make a trial recording to make sure that you are
using the camcorder correctly.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, turn it to CAMERA.

(2) Slide the START/STOP MODE switch to A .
(3) Turn STANDBY up. The "STBY" indicator appears in the yiewfinder.
(4) Press START/STOP (red button). The camcorder starts recording and the "STBY" indicator changes

to the "REC" indicator.

You can also select Recording mode, SP (standard play) mode or LP (long play) mode. Set REC MODE
(p. 29) according to the length of your planned recording before you start.

You can hear the beep sound to confirm your operation.

To Stop Recording Momentarily [a]

Press START/STOP again. The "REC" indicator in the viewfinder changes to the "STBY" indicator

(Standby mode).

To Finish Recording [b]

Press START/STOP. Turn STANDBY down, and set the POWER switch to OFF.
Then, eject the cassette (p. 11) and remove the battery (p. 10)

12

Note on Standby mode

If you leave the camcorder for 5 minutes or more with a cassette inserted in Standby mode, the
camcorder goes off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and wearing out the tap>e. To
resume Standby mode, turn STANDBY down once and turn it up again. To start recording, press
START/STOP.

To Focus the Viewfinder Lens

If the viewfinder is not in focus at all or when you use the camcorder after someone else has used it,
focus the viewfinder lens. When using a monochrome viewfinder, turn the viewfinder lens adjustment
ring so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus (aj. When using a color viewfinder,
move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus

[b].

Note on the indicators in the viewfinder

The indicators appear in CAMERA mode only. They do not appear in PLAYER mode.

Recording with the START/STOP button depressed

You can also make recording while pressing down the START/STOP button. To make the START/STOP
button work this way, slide the START/STOP MODE switch to . [c]

n

u

3

Shooting scenery in several short takes

You can automatically make recording for about 5 seconds with the 5 SEC (p. 26). To make the START/
STOP button work this way, slide the START/STOP MODE switch to 5 SEC. [d]

13

Camera Recording

Note on recording

When you record from the beginning of the tape, run the tape for about 15 seconds before actual
recording. This prevents the camcorder from missing any start-up scenes when you play back the tape.

Notes on recording mode

• This camcorder records in the SI’ mode (approximately 19/32 inch (1.43 cm)/second) and in the LP
mode (approximatelv 5/16 inch (0.72 cm)/second) (p. 29) and can play back in the SP mode and LP
mode. The plar back quality in the LP mode, however, will not be as good as that in the SP mode.

• When a cassette recorded on this camcorder in LP mode is played back on other types of 8 mm

camcorders or VCRs, the playback quality may not be as good as that on this camcorder.

Notes on the tape counter

• The tape counter indicates the recording time. Use it as a guide. There will be a time lag of several
seconds from the actual time. To set the counter to zero, press COUNTER RESET located below the
viewfinder.

• If the tape is recorded in SP and LP modes mixed, the tape counter shows incorrect recording time.
When you intend to edit the tape using the tape counter, record in same (SP or LP) mode.

Note on beep sound

As indicated with L in the illustrations, a beep sounds when you turn the power on or when you start
recording and two beeps sound when you stop recording, confirming the operation. Several beeps also
sound as a warning of any unusual condition of the camcorder (p. 55). Note that the beep sound is not
recorded on the tape. If you do not want to hear the beep sound, set BEEP to "OFF" (p. 29).

Note on the AUTO DATE feature

The clock is set to the East Coast Standard Time at the factory. You can reset the clock (p. 33).
The AUTO DATE feature works once a day. However, the date may automatically appear more than
once a day when:

- you reset the date and time.

- you eject and insert the cassette again.

- you stop recording within 10 seconds.

When moving from indoors to outdoors (or vice versa)

Turn STANDBY up and point the camcorder at a white object for about 15 seconds so that the white
balance is properly adjusted.

14

Using the Zoom Feature

Zooming is a'recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the scene. For more
professional-looking recordings, use the zoom sparingly.
T side: for telephoto (subject appears closer)
W side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away)

Zooming Speed

Turn the pow«tzoom lever fully for a high-speed zoom. Turn it lightly for a relatively slow zoom.

When you shoot a subject using a telephoto zoom

If you cannot get a sharp focus while in extreme telephoto zoom, turn the power zoom lever towards the
W side until the focus is sharp.
You can shoot a subject that is at least 2.6 feet (about 80 cm) away from the lens surface in the telephoto
position, or 1 / 2 inch (about 1 cm) in the wide-angle position.

Notes on Digital Zoom (for CCD-TR74/TR84/TR94 only)

You can select 12 x or 24 x of zooming.

• More than 12 x zoom is performed digitally, and the picture quality deteriorates as you go toward the
T side. If you do not want to use the digital zoom set the ZOOM function to xl2 (p. 29).

• The vertical bar in the power zoom indicator separates the digital zooming zone (right side of the bar
[a]) and the optical zooming zone (left side of the bar [b]). If you slide the ZOOM switch to xl2, the
right side of the bar [a] disappears.

15

Hints for Better Shooting

For hand-held shots, you'll get better results holding the camcorder according to the following

suggestions:

[a]

• Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily manipulate the

controls with vour thumb. [a]

• Place your right elbow against your side,

• Place your left hand under the camcorder to support it. Do not cover the microphone with your fingers.

• Place vour eve firmly against the vietvfinder eyecup.

• Use the viewftnder frame as a guide to determine the horizontal plane.

• You can also record in a low position to get an interesting recording angle. Turn the viewfinder up for

recording from a low position, [b]

Place the camcorder on a flat surface or use a tripod

Try placing the camcorder on a table top or any other flat surface of suitable height. If you have a tripod
for a still camera, you can also use it with the camcorder.
When attaching a non-Sony tripod, make sure the tripod screw is shorter than 9/32 inch (6.5 mm).

Otherwise, the screw may damage the inner parts of the camcorder.

Cautions on the viewfinder

• Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder, [c]

• Do not place the camcorder so as to point the viewfinder toward the sun. The inside of the vie^^’finder

may be deformed. Be careful in placing the camcorder under sunlight or by the window, [d]

[b]

16

Checking the Recorded Picture

Using EDITSEARCH, you can review the last recorded scene or check the recorded picture in the

viewfinder.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, turn it to CAMERA.

(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) Press EDITSEARCH. Press the - O) side momentarily, the last few seconds of the recorded portion

plays hark (Rec Review).

Mold down the - side of EDITSEARCH until the camcorder goes back to the scene you want. The last

recorded portion is played back. To go forward, hold down the + side (Editsearch).

To Begin Re-recording

Press START/STOP. Re-recording begins from the point you released EDITSEARCH. Provided you do
not eject the cassette, the transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene you record
will be smooth.

17

Connections for Playback

You can use this camcorder as a VCR by connecting it to your TV for playback. It is recommended to use
the house current as the power source {p. 21).

If a VCR is connected to a TV

Connect the camcorder to LINE IN on the VCR by using the supplied A/V connecting cable. Set the

input selector on the VCR to LINE. Set the TV/V'CR selector to VCR on the TV.

Connecting Directly to a TV

Connect the camcorder to your TV by using the the supplied A/V connecting cable. Set the TV/VCR
selector to VCR on the TV.

To Connect a TV or a VCR without Video/Audio Input Jacks

Use the RFU-95UC RFU adaptor (not supplied).

18

Playing Back a Tape

You can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can also monitor on the TV screen, after
connecting the camcorder to the TV/VCR (p. 18).
You can control playback using the supplied Remote Commander* (For CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74/TR84/

TR94only,p. 51).

* For CCD-TR44 users:

The Remote Commanders are available on option.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, turn it to PLAYER.
(2) Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out.

(3) Press ►. Playback starts.

i': You can hear the beep sound to confirm your operation.

To stop playback, press ■.
To rewind the tape, press
To fast-forward the tape, press I

See the next page for further informations.

19

Playing Back a Tape

Various Playback Modes

To view a still picture (playback pause)

Press II during playback. To resume playback, press II or ►.

To locate a scene (Picture Search)

Keep pressing or ►► during playback. To resume normal playback, release the button.

To monitor the high-speed picture during fastforward or rewind (Skip Scan)

Keep pressing « while rewinding or while advancing the tape. To resume normal playback,
press ►.

To view the picture in a sequence of stop-motion images

Press EDITSEARCH in playback pause mode. If you keep pressing EDITSEARCH, you can view the

picture playback in the forward (+) or reverse (-) direction.

Notes on playback

• Streaks appear and the sound is muted in the various playback modes.

• When still picture mode lasts for 5 minutes or more, the camcorder automatically enters stop mode.

20

I Advanced Operations

Using Alternative Power Sources

You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack (P.7), the house
current, alkaline battery, and 12/24 V car battery. Choose the appropriate power source depending on
where you want to use your camcorder.

Place Power source
Indoors

Outdoor

In the car 12 V or 24 V car battery

I’louse current Supplied AC power adaptor
Battery pack

Size AA (LR 6) Alkaline
battery

This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video products.

S When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that vou purchase

accessories with this "GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES" mark.'

Accessory to be used

Battery pack NP-33 (supplied), NP-98/98D, NP-80/80D,
NP-68, NP-66H, NP-C65, NP-60D

Battery case (supplied)

DC pack DCP-77

Using the House Current

To use the supplied AC power adaptor:

(1) Connect the AC power cord to a wall outlet. Insert the top of the connecting plate of the AC power

adaptor into the top of to the battery mounting surface. Push the connecting plate so that it attaches
firmly.

(2) Set the selector to VTR (DC OUT).

Qpower |[]

-S

m

n

VTR'Dc OUT,]

21

ta

>

Using Alternative Power Sources

WARNING

AC power cord must only be changed at qualified service shop.

PRECAUTIONS

The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall

outlet, e\'en if the set itself has been turned off.

Notes on the POWER lamp

• ITe POWER lamp will remain lit for a while even if the unit is unplugged after use. Tliis is normal.

• If the POWER lamp does not light, set the selector to VTR (EXT OUT) and disconnect the AC power
cord. After about one minute, trv again.

To remove the adaptor

The adaptor is removed in the same way as the battery pack (p. 10).

Using the Battery Case

Use the battery case (supplied) and six size AA (LR 6) alkaline batteries (not supplied).

(1) Remove the battery holder from the battery case.

(2) Insert six new alkaline batteries into the battery holder, following the marking on the holder to be

sure the batteries are installed in the correct direction.

(3) Insert the battery holder with the alkaline batteries.
(4) Insert the battery case with the alkaline batteries to the battery mounting surface of the camcorder in

the same way as the battery pack (p. 10).

Battery Life

Using alkaline batteries at 77 °F (25 °C)

Model

CCD-TR44/TR54 70 min. 125 min.
CCD-TR64 70 min.
CCD-TR74
CCD-TR84

CCD-TR94

Notes

• The above battery lives are estimates. Tlae battery life may be shorter depending on the storage
condition of the battery before being purchased and temperature.

• You may not use the battery case in cold environment.

To remove the battery case

The battery case is removed in the same way as the battery pack (p. 10).
VMien N’ou replace the batteries, be sure to remove the battery'case from the camcorder to prevent

Typical recording time

60 min. 110 min.
55 min. 100 min.

55 min. 100 min.

Continuous recording time

125 min.

22 malfunction.

Using a Car Battery

Use the DCP-77 DC pack (not supplied). Connect the cord of the DC pack to the cigarette lighter socket

of a car (12 V or 24 V). Connect the DC pack to the battery mounting surface of the camcorder.

To remove the DC pack

The rXT pack is removed in the same ivav as the battery pack (p. 10).

Recording with the Date or Time

Before you start recording, press DATE or TIME. You can record the date or time displayed in the
viewfinder with the picture. You cannot record the date and time at the same time. Except for the date or
time indicator, no indicator in the viewfinder is recorded.

The clock is set to the East Coast Standard Time at the factory.

To Stop Recording with the Date or Time

Press DATE or TIME again. Recording continues.

23

Using the PROGRAM AE Function

You can select from three PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) modes to suit your shooting situation. When
you use PROGRAM AE, you can capture high-speed action or night views.

Selecting the Best Mode

Select the best mode by using the following examples.

Sports mode

• Outdoor sports scenes such as football, tennis,
golf or skiing

• A landscape in a moving car

High-speed shutter mode

• A golf swing or a tennis match in fine weather

with the ball captured clearly

• Playing back certain scenes with high-speed
movements in clear, sharp picture

.^Twilight mode

• Recording night views, neon signs or
fireworks

Using the PROGRAM AE Function

Set the mark of the desired mode to the 9 mark above the PROGRAM AE dial.

Note on shutter speed

The shutter speed in each PROGRAM AE mode is as follows:
Sports mode - between 1 /60 to 1 /500
High-speed shutter mode - 1 /4000
Twilight mode - 1 /60

24 AUTO mode-1/60

Shooting with Backlighting

When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background,
use the BACK LIGHT.

Press BACK LIGHT. The E3 indicator appears inside the viewfinder.

[a] Subject is too dark because of backlight.

[b] Subject becomes bright with backlight compensation.

After Shooting

Press BACK LIGHT again to let the 0 indicator go out under normal lighting condition. Otherwise, the
picture will be too bright under normal lighting condition.

This function is also effective under following conditions:

• On the snow e.g. at the ski resort

• At the beach under strong sunshine

• A subject with a light source nearby or a mirror reflecting light

• A white subject against a white background. Especially when you shoot a person wearing shiny
clothes made of silk or synthetic fiber, his or her face tends to become dark if you do not use this
function.

25

O
o

ro
>

>

Shooting Scenery in Several Short Takes

Long, continuous shots of scener)' tend to be dull, and have to be edited to make an interesting video.
With the 5 SEC (5-second recording) mode, the camcorder records for abouf 5 seconds and then switches
to Standby mode, so that you will automatically take a series of quick shofs resulting in a lively video.
(1) Slide the START/STOP MODE switch to 5 SEC.
(2) Turn STANDBY up and pre.ss START/STOP. Recording starts. Five dots appears in the viewfinder.

The dofs disappear at a rate of one per second. When five seconds elapse and all the dots disappear, the
camcorder switches to Standby mode automatically.

To Extend the Recording Time

Press START/STOP again before all the dots disappear. Recording continues for about 5 seconds from
the moment you press START/STOP.

To Cancel 5-Second Recording

Slide the START/STOP MODE switch to
recording continues.

(normal recording). If you slide the switch while recording.

26

Supetimposing a Title

You can select from nine preset titles to superimpose it on the picture during recording. Each time you

press TITLE, the preset titles appear one by one.

To Superimpose from the Beginning

(1) Turn the POWER switch to CAMERA.

(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) Pr ess TITLE repeatedly until the desired title appears. The title flashes.
(4) Press ST,\R'r/STOP to start recording.
(5) Press TITLE when you want to turn off the title.

To Superimpose On the Way of Recording

(1) Press TITLE repeatedly until the desired title appears. The title flashes.
(2) When the title stops flashing, press TITLE. The title disappears.

(3) Press START/STOP to start recording.
(4) Press TITLE when vou want to superimpose the title.
(5) Press TITLE when you want to turn off the title.

Note on selecting a title

You cannot select a title during recording.

27

T3

o

-c

3

o

Using the STEADY SHOT Function

— CCD-TR84/TR94 only

You can use the Steady Sliot to compensate for camera-shake. Do not use the Steady Shot when shooting
a stationary object with a tripod.

Using the STEADY SHOT Function

Slide STEADY SHOT to ON.

To Release the Steady Shot

Slide STEADY SHOT to OFF.

Notes on the Steady Shot

• The Steady Shot will not correct excessive camera-shake.

• When you switch the Steady Shot on or off, the exposure may fluctuate.

28

Changing the Mode Settings

You can change the mode settings to further enjoy the features and functions.

(1) Slide the cover to the left. You will find the mode switches.
(2) Set the mode switches to the desired mode.

(3) Close the cover.

Selecting the Mode Setting of Each Item

ZOOM <x24/x12> (CCD-TR74/TR84/TR94 only)

• Set to x24 to activate digital zooming.

• Set to xl2 otherwise. The zooming ability becomes xl2.

COMMANDER <ON/OFF>

• Set to ON when using the supplied Remote Commander* for the camcorder (For CCD-TR54/TR64/
TR74/TR84/TR94 only).

* For CCD-TR44 users:

The Remote Commanders are available on option.

• Set to OFF when not using the Remote Commander for the camcorder.

BEEP <ON/OFF>

• Set to ON to turn the beep sound on.

• Set to OFF to turn the beep sound off.

REC MODE <SP/LP>

• Select SP to record a tape in SP (standard play) mode.

• Select LP to record a tape in LP (long play) mode.

m

■

>
o

-<

izi

X

O

S

o

a

29

Editing onto Another Tape

You can create vour own videti program by editing with any other 0 8 mm, Hi0 Hi8, VMS VHS, SVHSj S­VHS, VHSH VHSC, SiVHSH S-VHSC, ra Betamax or BaB«a| ED Betamax VCR that has video/audio inputs.

Alter connecting the camcorder to the VCR (p. 18),
(1) Turn the POWER switch to Pl.AYER.

(2) Insert cl bl.mk tcipo (or a tape voii want to record over) into the recording; VCR. Then insert vour

recorded tape into the camcorder.

(3) Pla\ back the recorded tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where voii want to start

editing. Tlien set the camcorder to playback pause mode.

(4) Set the recording V'CR to recording pause mode.
(5) Press II on the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start editing.

To Edit More Scenes

Repeat steps ,8 to a.

To Stop Editing

Press ■ STOP on the camcorder and VCR.

Use of the EDITSEARCH button

To play back a tape in the forward or reverse direction keep pressing EDITSEARCH during playback
pause. You can play back still pictures successively at specific intervals by pressing EDITSEARCH
intermittently

30

Additional Information

Changing the Lithium Battery In the Camcorder

Your camcorder is supplied with the lithium battery installed. The lithium battery lasts for about 1 year
under normal operation. When the battery becomes weak or dead, ti? indicator flashes in the viewfinder
for about 5 seconds when you set the POWER switch to CAMERA. In this case, replace the battery

with the Sony CR2025 or Duracell DL-2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a
risk of fire or explosion.

Note on Lithium Battery

Note that the lithium battery has a positive (+) and a negative (-) terminals as illustrated. Be sure to
install the lithium battery so that terminals on the battery match the terminals on the camcorder.

WARNING

The battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble, or dispose of in fire.

Caution
Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children. Should the battery be swallowed, consult a

doctor immediately.

31

Changing the Lithium Battery in the Camcorder

Changing the Lithium Battery

When replacing the lithium battery, keep the battery pack or other power source attached. Otherwise,
you will need to reset the date and time .

(1) Slide the cover and align the mark of the cover to that of the body. Press down the cover.

(2) Push the battery in once and pull it out from the holder.

(3) Install the lithium battery with the positive (+) side facing out.
(4) Align the mark of the cover to that of the body. Press the cover until it clicks and slide the cover.

32

Resetting the Date and Time

Reset the date and time using the DATE(+) and TIME(NEXT) buttons.

(1) Turn the POWER switch to CAMERA.
(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) Press DATE(+) and TIME(NEXT) simultaneously until the year indicator flashes in the viewfinder.
(4) Set year, month, day, time, minute by pressing DATH(+) and TIME(NEXT). Note that when you keep

DATE(+) pressed, the digits advance taster.

3

00

01
<0

3

?

ro
n

Oi

3

n
o

To Correct the Date and Time Setting

Repeat steps 3 and 4.

To Check the Date and Time

Press DATE to display the date indicator in the viewfinder. Press TIME to display the time indicator.
When you press the same button again, the indicator goes out.

The year indicator changes as follows:

'96-

'95-

L_

Note on the time indicator

The internal clock of the camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle.
12:00:00 AM stands for midnight.
12:00:00 PM stands for noon.

'24

_J

33

Playback Modes

riie playback mode is selected automatically according to the recording system (SP/LP mode) in which

the tape was recorded.

Foreign 8 mm video

You cannot play software recorded on a different TV color system. Because the TV color systems differ
from countr\' to country, you may not be able to play back foreign pre-recorded software. Refer to page

42 to check the T\' color s\ stem ol foreign countries.

Tips for Using the Battery Pack

I bis section shows vou how \ ou can get the most out of your battery pack.

Preparing the Battery Pack

Always Carry Additional Batteries

hiave sutticient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have planned.

Battery Life is Shorter in Cold Environment

Battery efficiency is decreased and the battery will be used up more quickly if you are recording in cold

environment.

To Save Battery Power

Turn the STA.\'DBY switch on the camcorder down when not recording to save battery power, [a] on
page 35.
A smooth transition between scenes can be made even if recording is stopped and started again. While
positioning the subject, selecting an angle, or looking through the viewfinder lens, the lens moves

automatically and the battery is used. The battery is also used when a cassette is inserted or removed.

When to Replace the Battery

While yc^u are using your camcorder in CAMERA mode, the remaining batterv indicator decreases

gradually as batterv power is used up.

■»cj

34

Tips for Using the Battery Pack

When the remaining battery indicator reaches the lowest point, the indicator appears and starts
flashing in the viewfinder, [b]
When the <Xi indicator in the viewfinder changes from slow flashing to rapid flashing while you are
recording, turn the POWER switch to OFF on the camcorder and replace the battery pack. Lea\’e the tape
in the camcorder to obtain smooth transition between scenes after the battery is replaced.

Note on the remaining battery indicator

The remaining battery indicator of the camcorder may indicate a different remaining capacity from that
of the battery pack with the remaining battery indicator (not supplied). The indicator of the battery pack
is more accurate.

Notes on the Rechargeable Battery Pack

Caution

Never leave the battery pack in temperatures nbo\ e 140 ’F (60 ”C), such as in a car parked in the sun or
under direct sunlight.

o

c

The Battery Heats Up

During charging or recording, the battery pack heats up. This is caused by energy that has been
generated and a chemical change that has occurred inside the battery pack. This is not cause for concern.

Battery Pack Care

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using the battery pack, and keep it in a cool place.

When the battery pack is attached to the camcorder, a small amount of current flows to the camcorder
even if the POWER swatch is set to OFF, vc'hich shortens battery life.

• The battery pack is ahvays discharging evtn whOn it is not in use after charging. Therefore, you should

charge the battery right before using the camcorder.

How to Use the Switch on the Battery Pack

When the switch is supplied with the battrv pack ([c] on p. 36) you can use it to find whether the battery
pack is charged or not. Set the switch to the "no mark" position when charging is completed. Set the
switch to the "red mark" position when the batter\ is used up (or in w'hichever direction vou want to
remind yourself).

The Life of the Battery Pack

If the <Xi indicator flashes rapidly just after turning on the camcordrer with a fully charged batter\- pack,
the battery pack should be replaced with a new fully charged one.

35

Tips for Using the Battery Pack

Charging Temperature

You should charge batteries at temperatures from 50°F to 86°F (from 10°C to 30°C). Lower temperatures
require a longer charging time.

Sony Batteries are Recommended

Use of non-Sonv batteries may damage your Uandycam camcorder.

Notes on Charging

A Brand-new Battery

A brand-new battery pack is not charged. Before using the battery pack, charge it completely.

After Long Storage

Recharge the battery pack after a long period of storage. If the battery pack is charged fully but not used
for a long time (about 1 year), it becomes discharged. 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.

Notes on the Terminals

If the terminals (metal parts on the back) are not clean, the battery charge duration vi/ill be shortened.

When the terminals are not clean or when the battery pack has not been used for a long time, repeat
installing and remoc'ing the battery pack a few times. This improves the contact condition. Also, wipe
the + and - terminals with a soft cloth or paper.

Be Sure to Observe the Following

• To prevent an accident caused by a short circuit, do not allow metal objects such as a necklace

to touch the battery terminals. Carry the battery pack attaching to the terminal cover, [d]

• Keep the batter\' pack away from fire.

• Keep the battery pack dry.

• Do not open nor convert the battery pack.

• Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.

36

Notes on the Battery Case

• Use only with alkaline batteries. You cannot use the battery case with manganese batteries or

size AA rechargeable NiCd batteries.

• Battery life is remarkably shorter in a cold environment (lower than 50 °F/10 °C).

• Keep the metal part clean. If it gets dirty, wipe it with a soft cloth.

• Do not disassemble or convert the battery case.

• Do not expose the battery case to any mechanical shock.

• During recording, the battery case heats up. This is not cause for concern.

• Prevent the electrode in the battery case from coming in contact with a metal object.

• If you will not use the battery case for a long time, detach the battery case from the camcorder and
remove the batteries from the battery case.

Notes on Alkaline Batteries

To avoid possible damage from battery leakage or corrosion, observe the following.

• Be sure to insert the batteries in the correct direction.

• Alkaline batteries are not rechargeable.

• Do not use a combination of new and old batteries.

• Do not use different types of batteries.

• The batteries slowly discharge while not in use.

• Do not use a battery that is leaking.

If battery leakage occurred

• Wipe off the liquid in the battery case carefully before replacing the batteries.

• If you touch the liquid, wash it off with water.

• If the liquid get into your eyes, wash your eyes with a lot of wafer and then consult a doctor.

37

Maintenance Information and Precautions

Moisture Condensation

If 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. If this happens, the tape may stick to the head drum
and be damaged or the camcorder may not operate correctly. To prevent possible damage under these
circumstances, the camcorder is furnished with moisture sensors. However, take the following
precautions.

Inside the Camcorder

If there is moisture inside the camcorder, the beep sounds and the E indicator or the DEW lamp flashes.
If this happens, none of the function except cassette ejection will work. Open the cassette compartment,
turn off the camcorder, and leave it about 1 hour. When ^ indicator flashes at the same time, the cassette
is inserted in the camcorder. Eject the cassette, turn off the camcorder, and leave also the cassette about 1
hour.

On the Lens

No indicator will appear, but the picture becomes dim. Turn off the power and do not use the camcorder
for about 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 1 hour).

38

Video Head Cleaning

To ensure cl<iar pictures, clean the video heads. When O appears in the viewfinder in CAMERA mode or

playback pictures are "noisy" or hardly visible, the video heads may be contaminated.

[a] Slight contamination
[b] Critical contamination

If this happens, clean the video heads with the Sony V8-25CLH cleaning cassette (not supplied). After
checking the picture, if it is still "noisy", repeat the cleaning. (Do not repeat cleaning more than 5 times.)

Caution

Do not use a commercially available wet-tvpe cleaning cassette. It may damage the video heads.

Note

If the V8-25CLH cleaning cassette is not available in your area, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

39

Maintenance Information and Precautions

Removing Dust from inside the Viewfinder

— CCD-TR44/TR54/TR64/TR84 only

(1) Remove the screw with a screwdriver (not supplied). Then, while sliding the RELEASE knob, turn

the evecup in the direction of the arrow and pull it out.

(2) Clean the surface with a commercially available blower.

To Reattach the Eyecup

(1) Align the groove on th eyecup with the • mark on the barrel.

(2) Turn the eyecup in the direction of the arrow. Then, replace the screw.

Caution

Do not remove any other screws. You may remove only the screw to remove the eyecup.

40

Precautions

Camcordei' Operation

• Operate the camcorder using 6.0 V (battery pack), or 7.5 V (AC power adaptor).

• For DC or AC operation, use onlv tiie recommended accessories.

• Sliould any solid object or liquid lal! into the casing, unplug the camcorder and have it checked bv your
nearest Srany dealer before operating it anv further.

• Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.

• Keep the POWER switcii set to OFF when not using the camera.

• Do not wrap up the camcorder and operate it since heat may build up internally.

• Keep the camcorder awav from strong magnetic fields or mechanical vibration.

On Handling Tapes

Do not insert anything into the small holes on the rear of the cassette. These holes are used to sense the

type, thickness of tape, or if the tab is out or in.

Camcorder Care

• When the camcorder is not to be used for a long time, disconnect the power source and remove the
cassette. Periodically turn on the power, operate the camera and player stations and play back a tape

for about 3 minutes.

• Clean the lens with a soft brush to remove dust. If there are fingerprints on the lens, remove then', with

a soft cloth.

• Clean the camcorder body 'vith a soft dry cloth, or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent
solution. Do not use anv tvpe of solvent which may damage the finish.

AC Power Adaptor

Charging

• Use only for the sjaecified battery pack. This unit cannot be used to charge a lithium ion type battery.

• Attach the battery pack firmly.

• Charge the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration.

Others

• Unplug the unit from the \\'all (mains) outlet when not in use for a long time. To disconnect the cord
(mains lead), pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself.

• Do not operate the unit with a damaged cord or if the unit has been dropped or damaged.

• Do not bend the AC power cord (mains lead) forcibly, or put a heavy object on it. This will damage the
cord and may cause a fire or an electrical shock.

• Be sure that nothing metallic comes into contact with the metal parts of the connecting plate. If this
happens, a short may occur and the unit may he damaged.

• Always keep the metal contacts clean.

• Do not disassemble the unit.

• Do not apply mechanical shock or drop the unit.

• While the unit is in use, particularly during charging, keep it away from AM receivers and video
equipment because it will disturb AM reception and video operation.

• The unit becomes warm u hile in use. This is normal.

• Do not place the unit in locations that are:

- Extremely hot or cold

- Dusty or dirty

- Very humid

- Vibrating

If any difficulty should arise, unplug the unit and contact your nearest Sony dealer.

41

Using Your Camcorder Abroad

Each country has its own electricity and TV color systems. 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 V
AC, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available .AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design
of the wall outlet [b].

AC-V15A/16/V16A

------

—

œCt-

-at-

[a]

-0

[b]

Difference in Color Systems

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. When you want to use a PAL M system based TV, you will need

an 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, the U.S.A., Venezuela, etc.

PAL system countries

Australia, Austria, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Great Britain, Holland, Hong Kong,
Italy, Kuwait, 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, Czech Republic, France, Guyana, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Poland, Russia, Slovak
Republic, Ukraine, etc.

42

Trouble Check

if you run info any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem.

Camcorder

Symptom

The power is not on.

The power goes off.

9)

5

o

o.

The battery pack is
quickly discharged.

START/STOP does not
operate.

The cassette cannot be

removed from the
holder.

c
o

No function except for

'•p

m

cassette ejection works.

0)

a

O

The tape does not move

when a tape transport

button is pressed.

The date or time

indicator is flashing.

The date or time

indicator disappears.

Cause Corrective Actions

Tlie battery pack is not
attached or not attached
firmly.

The battery is dead. Use a charged battery pack. 7
The AC power adaptor is not

connected to a wall outlet.
While being operated in

CAMERA mode, the
camcorder lias been in the
Standby mode for more than
5 minutes.

The battery is dead. Use a charged battery pack.
The ambient temperature is

too low.
The battery pack has not been

charged fully.
The battery pack is

completely dead, and cannot
be recharged.

The tape is stuck to the drum. Eject the cassette.
The tape has run out. Rewind the tape or use a

The POWER switch is set to
PLAYER.

The tab on the cassette is out
(red).

The battery is dead. Use a charged battery pack

Moisture condensation has
occurred. "

The POWER switch is set to
CAMERA or OFF.
The tape has run out. Rewind the tape or use a

You pressed DATE and TIME
together for more than 2
seconds.

Attach the battery pack
firmly by pushing the lower
part of the battery pack.

Connect the AC power
adaptor to a wall outlet.

Turn STANDBY down once
and turn it up again.

—

Charge the battery pack
again.

Use another battery pack.

new one.
Set to CAMERA.

Use a new cassette or slide
the tab.

or the AC power adaptor.

Remove the cassette and
leave the camcorder for at
least an hour.

Set it to PLAYER.

new one.
The camcorder is not

malfunctioning. You may
start recording. Flashing will
stop soon.

Reset the date and time.

(to be continued)

page

7,21

21

13

34

35

11
19

12

11

38

19

19

—

33

10

7

7

>

O'

43

Trouble Check

Symptom

The image on the
viewfinder screen is not
clear.

A vertical band appears
when a subject such as

«

V-

3

lights or a candle flame is

C

shot against a dark

b.

background.

The picture is "noisy".

The supplied Remote
Commander does not work.
(ForCCD-TR54/TR64/
TR74/TR84/TR94 only)

c

«

s

There is dust in the
viewfinder. (For
CCD-TR44/TR54/TR64/
TR84 only)

Cause

The viewfinder lens is not
adjusted.

The contrast between the
subject and background is
too high.

The video heads may be
dirty.

COMMANDER is set to .

OFF.

Something is blocking the
infrared rays.

The battery is not inserted

with the correct polarity.

The batteries are dead.

—

Corrective Actions

Adjust the viewfinder lens.

The camcorder is not
malfunctioning. Change
locations.

Clean the heads using the
Sony V8-25CLF1 cleaning
cassette.

Set it to ON.

Remove the obstacle.

Insert the battery with the
correct polarity.

Insert new ones.
Detach the eyecup and

clean the viewfinder lens.

page

13

—

39

29

—

52
52

40

44

AC Power Adaptor

Symptom

The POWER lamp does
not light.

0

1 O

y ■§

The CHARGE lamp
flashes.

When the CHARGE Lamp Flashes

Check through the following chart.

Cause

—

See the following chart.

*

Corrective Actions

Set the selector to VTR ( DC OUT)
and disconnect the AC power
cord. After about one minute, try
again.

page

9

* If you use a battery pack which you have just bought or which has been left unused for a long time, the

CHARGE lamp may flash at the first charging. But this is not a problem. Repeat again to charge with

the same battery pack.

45

Specifications

Video Camera Recorder

System

Video recording system

Two rotary heads, Helical
scanning, FM system

Audio recording system

Rotary heads, FM system

Video signal

NTSC color, ElA standards

Usable cassette

8 mm video format cassette
(standard 8 mm)

Recording/Playback time

SP mode: 2 hours (P6-120)
LP mode: 4 hours (P6-120)

Fastforward/rewind time

Approx. 5 min. (P6-120)

Image device

CCD (Charge Coupled Device)

Viewfinder

Electronic \’iewfinder,
CCD-TR44/TR54/TR84:
Black and white
CCD-TR64/TR74/TR94: Color

Lens

CCD-TR44: 10 x. Combined
power zoom lens, FI.6 - 2.7
CCD-TR54/TR64: 12 x.
Combined power zoom lens,
Fl.8-2.7
CCD-TR74/TR84/TR94: 12 x

(optical), 24 X (digital).

Combined power zoom lens,

Fl.8-2.7

Focal distance

CCD-TR44: f = ‘A - 2 ‘/5 inches

(6.3 - 63 mm)
CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74/TR84/

TR94: %2 - 2 % inches (5.4 - 64.8

mm) When com'erted to a 35
mm still camera
CCD-TR44: 1 'Vis - 17 V inches
(45 - 450 mm)
CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74:1 Vs -

• 18 '/^ inches (39 - 468 mm)
CCD-TR84/TR94:1 % - 22 'A
inches (47 - 564 mm)

Color temperature

Auto

Minimum illumination

CCD-TR44: 0.6 lx at F 1.6
CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74: 0.8 lx

at F 1.8
CCD-TR84/TR94: 3.0 lx at F 1.8

Illumination range

CCD-TR44: 0.6 to 100,000 lx
CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74: 0.8 to

100.000 lx

CCD-TR84/TR94: 3.0 to 100,000
lx

Recommended illumination

More than 100 lx

Input and Output connectors Video output

Phono jack, 1 Vp-p, 75 O,
unbalanced

Audio output

Monaural, Phono jack, 327 mV,
(at load impedance 47 k£2),
impedance less than 2.2 kO

RFU DC OUT

Special minijack, DC 5 V

LANC jack

Stereo-mini-mini-jack (a 2.5
mm)

MIC jack

Mini-jack, 0.388 mV, low
impedance with 2.5 to 3 V EXS,
output impedance 6.8 ki2 (a 3.5
mm)

General
Power requirements

On battery mounting surface

6.0 V (battery pack), 7.5 V (AC
power adaptor)

Average power consumption

CCD-TR44/TR54: 3.6 W
CCD-TR64: 3.7 W
CCD-TR74: 3.9 W
CCD-TR84: 4.0 W
CCD-TR94: 4.1 W

Operating temperature

32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40”C)

Storage temperature

^°F to -i-140“F (-20°C to -i-60°C)

Dimensions

Approx. 4"/8x4'/8x8 inches

(110 X 103 X 202 mm) (w/h/d)

Mass

Excluding the battery pack,
lithium battery, cassette and
shoulder strap
CCD-TR44/TR54/TR64:
Approx. 1 lb 8 oz (690 g)
CCD-TR74/TR84/TR94:
Approx. 1 lb 8 oz (700 g)
Including the battery pack NP­33, lithium battery CR2025,
cassette P6-120 and shoulder
strap
CCD-TR44/TR54/TR64:
Approx. 2 lb (910 g)
CCD-TR74/TR84/TR94:
Approx. 2 lb (920 g)

Microphone

Electret condenser microphone,
monaural type

Supplied accessories

See page 5.

46

AC power adaptor

Power requirements

no - 240 V AC*, 50/60HZ

Power consumption

AC-V15: 18 VV

AC-V16: 20 W
AC-V16A:22W

Output voltage

1!XT OUT in oporation mode
AC-V15: 7 5 V, 1.6 A
AC-V16/V16A: 7.5 V, 1.8 A
Oattery charge terminal
10 V, 1.1 A in charge mode

Application

Sony battery packs Nl’-33
(supplied), NP-60D, NP-C65,
NP-66H, NP-68, NP-80/80D,

NP-98/98D

Operating temperature

32°F to 104°F (0“C to 40°C)

Storage temperature

-4“F to +140°F (-20°C to +6C°C)

Dimensions ~~

Approx. 6 ^/«x 1 "/lA X 3 inches

(156 X 43 X 75 mm) (w/h/d)

including projecting parts and

controls

Mass

AC-V15/V16; Approx. 15 oz

(420 g)

AC-V16A: Approx. 16 oz (450

g)

* Canadian Standard

Association (CSA) certifies
120 V AC only.

Design and specifications are
subject to change without

notice.

47

Identifying the Parts

Ш POWER switch (p. 12, 19)
[2] DATE(+) button (p. 23, 33)
[3] TIME(NEXT) button (p. 23, 33)
[U TITLE button (p. 27)
[5] COUNTER RESET button (p. 14)
g] STEADY SHOT mode switch (p. 28)

For CCD-TR84/TR94 only

[7] Eyecup (p. 16)
g Battery mounting surface (p. 10)
g LANC C control jack

Connect the LANC C connecting cable to a wired remote control unit such as an editing controller.
In this case, set the COMMANDER mode to OFF (p. 29). i£ stands for Local Application Control Bus
sytem. The C control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video equipment and
peripherals connected to it. This jack has the same function as the connectors indicated as CONTROL

L or REMOTE.

[TOj ВАТТ (battery) release knob (p. 10)

48

|Ti] Power zoom lever (p. IS)
ITU EJECT knob (p. 11)
lill Eyecup release knob (p. 40)

For CCD-TR44/TR54/TR64/TR84 only

lil! Hooks for shoulder strap (p. 51)

111 START/STOP button (p. 12)
01 STANDBY switch (p. 12)
[it] Grip strap (p. 16)

01 Cassette compartment (p. 11)
01 VIDEO OUT jack (p. 18)

m RFU DC OUT (RFU adaptor DC out) jack

0 AUDIO OUT jack (p. 18)

m Jack cover

MIC (microphone) jack

Connect an optional external microphone. This jack also accepts a "plug-in-power" microp'ione.

|4l Tripod receptacle (p. 16)

Attach a tripod (not supplied) here.

49

Identifying the Parts

1

Tape transport buttons (p. 19, 20)

■ STOP
REW (rewind)

► PLAY (playback)

►► FF (fast forward)
II PAUSE
These buttons will function in PLAYER mode.

I EDITSEARCH button (p. 17)

I

Lens cover

I Built-in microphone
I Remote sensor (p. 53)

1

Camera recording/battery lamp

I Lithium battery compartment (p. 32)

I

DEW lamp (p. 38)

i Viewfinder adjustment ring {p. 13)

For CCD-TR44/TR54/TR64/TR84 only

I

Lighting aperture

For CCD-TR74/TR94 only

1

Viewfinder (p. 13, 54)

1

Viewfinder adjustment lever (p. 13)

For CCD-TR74/TR94 only

! BACK LIGHT button (p. 25)
I START/STOP MODE switch (p. 12,13, 26)
] PROGRAM AE dial (p. 24)

1

Mode switches (p. 29)

50

Attaching the shoulder strap

Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for tlie shoulder strap (|l3 on page 49).

Remote Commander

— For CCD-TR54/TR64/TR74/TR84/TR94 only

Tlie buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander and on the camcorder function
identically.

[T] Transmitter

Point toward the remote sensor to control the camcorder after fuming on the POWER switch on the
camcorder.

[2] Tape transport buttons (p. 19, 20)
[3] Size AA (R6) battery holder (p. 52)
[4] START/STOP button
[5] Power zoom button

Tire zooming speed is unchangeable on the Remote Commander.

51

Identifying the Parts

Preparing the Remote Commander

To use the Remote Commander, you must insert two size A A (R6) batteries. Use the supplied size A A
(R6) batteries.

(1) Remove the battery cover from the Remote Commander.

(2) Insert both of the size AA (R6) batteries with correct polarity.

(3) Put the battery cover back onto tlie Remote Commander.

Note on battery life

The batteries for the Remote Commander last about 6 months under normal operation. When the
batteries become weak or dead, the Remote Commander does not work.

To avoid damage from possible battery leakage

Remove the batteries when you will not use the Remote Commander for a long time.

Using the Remote Commander

Make sure that the COMMANDER mode is set to ON (p. 29).

52

Remote Control Direction

Aim the Remote Commander to the remote sensor within the range as shown below.

Notes on the Remote Commander

• Keep the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or illumination.
Otherwise, the remote control may not be effective.

• Be sure that there is no obstacle between the remote sensor and the Remote Commander.

• This camcorder works at commander mode VTR 2. The commander modes (1, 2, and 3) are used to
distinguish this camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use
another Sony VCR at commander mode VTR 2, we recommend you change the commander mode or
cover the remote sensor of the VCR with black paper.

To Watch the Demonstration

You can watch a brief demonstraHon of pictures with titles.
If the demonstration appears when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, exit the Demo mode to
use your camcorder.

To enter Demo mode

(1) Eject the cassette and turn the POWER switch to OFF.
(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) While holding down PLAY, turn the POWER switch to CAMERA. Demonstration starts. The

demonstration stops when you insert the cassette.

Note that once you enter Demo mode, this mode is retained as long as the lithium battery is in place.
Therefore, demonstration starts automatically 10 minutes later every time you turn the POWER switch to
CAMERA, or after you eject the cassette.

To exit Demo mode

(1) Turn the POWER switch to OFF.

(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) While holding down ■ STOP, turn the POWER switch to CAMERA.

53

Identifying the Parts

In the Viewfinder

The indicators appear in CAMERA mode only.

s>

'^IwGDTj

s-

[T| Power zoom indicator (p. 15)

For CCD-TR74/TR84/TR94 only

¡2] Backlight indicator (p. 25)

|LP|RECH0:00:00l

JZ

ftuтoDA^i]|ca^

S

I12:00:00AMI

■ m

Warning indicator (p. 55)

[4] Lithium battery indicator (p. 31)

Recording lamp/battery lamp (p. 12)

[6] Recording in LP mode (p. 12)
[7] Tape transport mode (p. 12)
[8] Tape counter (p. 14)
[9] AUTO DATE indicator (p. 12)
5o] Remaining battery indicator (p. 34)

♦ CZ3 ♦ iZI

Date, Time or Title (p. 23, 27)

54

Warning Indicators

All indicatore appear only wlitni you use the camcorder in CAMERA mode.
If indicators flash in the viewfinder, or a caution lamp on the camcorder flashes, check the following:

You can hear the beep sound when BEEP is set to ON (p. 29).

[Tl Battery Remaining

Slow' flashing: The battery is w'eak.

Fast flashing: The battery is dead.

vt

I

The tape is near the end.
(¿1 The tape has run out.
[4| No tape has been inserted.

The tab on the tape is out (red) (p. 11).

[6] Moisture condensation has occurred (p. 3S).

indicator appears only when the cassbtte is inserted.
[T1 The video heads may be contaminated (p. 39).
[8] Some other trouble has occurred.

Disconnect the pow'er source and contact vour Sony dealer or local authorized facility.

§] The lithium battery is weak or the lithium battery is not installed (p. 31).

This indicator flashes just only after powering on.

55

Index

A

AC power adaptor

Adjusting viewfinder ....

AUTO DATE
,-\/V connecting cable ...

В

BACK LIGHT...............

Battery

...........................

Battery case
Battery lamp
Battery pack
BEEP

.............................

c
Camera recording
Car batterv
Charging battery
Cleaning video heads...
Connection
COUNTER RESET

D
DATE/TIME
DEMO mode
Digital zoom

.........

................

...................

..................

...................

..........

.....................

............

...................

......

.................

.................

.................

....

7,21

.......

13

.......

12

.......

18

.......

25

.......

52

.......

22

.... 35, 55

.........

7

,...14,29

........

12

........

23

..........

7

........

39

........

18

........

14

........

23

........

53

........

15

E

Editing

..................................

EDITSEARCH
EJECT

.....................

..................................

F, G, H

Easl-torward

5 sec. recording ....................26

1 ligh-speed shutter mode

.........................

......

I, J, K, L

LANC

...................................

Lithium battery.....................31

M, N, O, P

MIC (microphone) jack
Playback on TV
Playback pause
Power sources
Power zoom

PROGRAM AE

......................

.........................

.........

....................

....................

...................

Q, R

RECMODE

30

Rec. Review

17

Remote Commander

11

Rewind..................................14

S

19

Shoulder strap
Sports mode

24

STANDBY............................12

Standby mode

48

STEADY SHOT
Supplied accessories

T, U, V, W, X, Y

49

Tape counter

19

Title

20

Tripod mounting

21

Trouble check

15

Twilight mode.......................24

24

..........................

.......................................

Z

Zoom.....................................15

..........................

............

......................

.........................

.......................

...................

...............

.........................

...................

.......................

29

17

51

51
24

13
28

5

14
27
16
43

Sony Corporation Printed in Japan