Sony CCD-TR930 Operating Instructions (primary manual) Operating Instructions Manual

3-859-496-11 (1)

©1997 by Sony Corporation

Video Camera
Recorder

Operating Instructions

Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it 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- Model No. AC-
Serial No.___________________ Serial No. __________________

CCD-TR930

2

Welcome!

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.

WARNING

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

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.

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY.

LITHIUM ION BATTERY.
DISPOSE OF PROPERLY.

You can return you unwanted lithium ion batteries to
your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service
Center.
Note: In some areas the disposal of lithium ion

batteries in household or business trash may
be prohibited.

For the Sony Service Center nearest you call
1-800-222-SONY (United States only)
For the Factory Service Center nearest you call
416-499-SONY (Canada only)

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium

ion battery.

For the Customers in the U.S.A.

CAUTION

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

Note:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant
to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur
in a particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and

receiver.

– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit

different from that to which the receiver is
connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV

technician for help.

For the customers in CANADA

CAUTION

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
USE THIS POLARIZED AC PLUG WITH AN
EXTENSION CORD, RECEPTACLE OR
OTHER OUTLET UNLESS THE BLADES
CAN BE FULLY INSERTED TO PREVENT
BLADE EXPOSURE.

3

Before you begin

Table of contents

Before you begin

Using this manual ........................................4

Checking supplied accessories ................... 5

Getting started

Charging and installing

the battery pack .....................................6

Inserting a cassette .....................................10

Basic operations

Camera recording .......................................11

Using the zoom feature ......................14

Selecting the START/STOP mode ....15

Hints for better shooting ...........................16

Checking the recorded picture ................. 17

Connections for playback ..........................18

Playing back a tape.....................................19

Advanced operations

Using alternative power sources ..............22

Using the house current .....................22

Using alkaline battery ......................... 23

Using a car battery ..............................23

Changing the mode settings ..................... 24

Fade-in and fade-out .................................. 27

Using the wide mode function .................28

Enjoying picture effect ...............................29

Focusing manually .....................................31

Using the PROGRAM AE function..........33

Shooting with backlighting .......................35

Adjusting the exposure..............................36

Superimposing a title .................................37

Making your own titles .............................40

Recording with the date/time ..................41

Optimizing the recording condition ........42

Editing onto another tape..........................43

Recording from a VCR or TV....................44

Releasing the STEADY SHOT function...45

Additional information

Changing the lithium battery in the

camcorder .............................................46

Resetting the date and time.......................47

Usable cassettes and playback modes .....48

Tips for using the battery pack .................49

Maintenance information and

precautions ...........................................52

Using your camcorder abroad .................. 55

Trouble check ..............................................56

Self-diagnosis function ....................... 60

Specifications...............................................61

Identifying the parts...................................62

Warning indicators.....................................70

Index ............................................................. 71

4

[a] [b]

Before you begin

Using this manual

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.
As indicated with ≥ in the illustrations, you can hear the beep sound to confirm your
operation.

Note on TV color systems

TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you
need an NTSC system-based TV.

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

• The LCD screen and/or the color viewfinder are manufactured using high­precision technology. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or
bright points (red, blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD
screen or in the viewfinder. These points are normal in the manufacturing
process and do not affect the recorded picture in any way. Over 99.99% are
operational for effective use.

•Do not let the camcorder get wet. Keep the camcorder away from rain and sea water.
Letting the camcorder get wet may cause the unit to malfunction, and sometimes this
malfunction cannot be repaired [a].

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

Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not
made due to a malfunction of the camcorder, video tape, etc.

5

Before you begin

1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p.66)
2 NP-F330 Battery pack (1) (p.6)
3 AC-V316/V316A AC power adaptor (1)

(p.6, 22)

4 CR2025 Lithium Battery (1) (p.46)

The lithium battery is already installed in
your camcorder.

Checking supplied accessories

13

456

78

5 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote

Commander (2) (p.67)

6 A/V connecting cable (1) (p.18, 44)
7 Shoulder strap (1) (p.68)
8 Battery case (1) (p.23)

Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.

2

6

Getting started

Charging and installing the battery pack

12

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.

This camcorder operates with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery. If you use any other battery
to operate your camcorder, the camcorder may not operate or the battery life may be
shortened.

“InfoLITHIUM” is a trade mark of Sony Corporation.

Charging the battery pack

Charge the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration.

(1) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.
(2) Align the surface of the battery pack indicated by the z mark with the edge of

the terminal shutter of the AC power adaptor. Then fit and slide the battery
pack in the direction of the arrow. The CHARGE lamp (orange) lights up.
Charging begins.

When the CHARGE lamp goes out, normal charge is completed. For full charge,
which allows you to use the battery longer than usual, leave the battery pack in place
for approximately one hour. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet, then remove the
battery pack and install it into the camcorder. You can also use the battery pack before it
is completely charged.

Charging time

Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied) NP-F530 NP-F730 NP-F930
Charging time* (min.) 160 (100) 170 (110) 250 (190) 330 (270)

The time required for a normal charge is indicated in parentheses.
* Approximate minutes to charge an empty battery pack using the supplied AC power

adaptor (full charge). (Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.)

7

Before you begin

Battery lifee

Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied) NP-F530 NP-F730 NP-F930
Continuous recording

70 (65) 150 (135) 305 (275) 480 (435)

time* (min.)
Typical recording

40 (35) 85 (75) 170 (155) 270 (245)

time* (min.)

Numbers before the parentheses indicate the time when you use a fully charged battery.
Numbers in the parentheses indicate the time when you use a normal charged battery.
* Approximate continuous recording time indoors.
** Approximate minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/stop,

zooming and turning the power on/off. The actual battery life may be shorter.

Note on remaining battery time indication during recording

Remaining battery time is displayed in the viewfinder. It may not be displayed
properly, however, depending on the conditions and circumstances of use.

To remove the battery pack

Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

Getting started

Charging and installing the battery pack

Notes on charging the battery pack

•The CHARGE lamp will remain lit for a while even if the battery pack is removed and
the power cord is unplugged after charging the battery pack. This is normal.

•If the CHARGE lamp does not light, disconnect the power cord. After about one
minute, reconnect the power cord again.

•You cannot operate the camcorder using the AC power adaptor while charging the
battery pack.

•When a fully charged battery pack is installed, the CHARGE lamp will light once,
then go out.

8

BATT RELEASE
(PUSH)

Installing the battery pack

Align the grooves of the battery pack with the receptacles of the camcorder and slide
the battery pack down until it catches on the battery release lever and clicks. Attach the
battery pack to the camcorder securely.

Charging and installing the battery pack

You can look at the demonstration of the functions available with this camcorder (p.26).

To remove the battery pack

While pressing the BATT (battery) RELEASE (PUSH) button, slide the battery pack in
the direction of the arrow.

9

Before you begin

Using the camcorder with the finder slid out or lifted up

When NP-F730 or NP-F930 is installed

When you install NP-F730 or NP-F930, slide out the viewfinder for more comfortable
camera recording.

Charging and installing the battery pack

Note on the battery pack

Do not carry the camcorder by grasping the battery pack.

When you record in a low angle

Lift up the viewfinder.

To restore the viewfinder

Push the viewfinder down or slide it into the camcorder.

Getting started

10

Inserting a cassette

123

Make sure that the power source is installed. When you want to record in the Hi8
system, use Hi8 video cassette H.

(1) While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it in the

direction of the arrow. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and
opens.

(2) Insert a cassette with the window facing out.
(3) Close the cassette compartment by pressing the PUSH mark on the cassette

compartment. The cassette compartment automatically goes down.

To eject the cassette

While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it 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 L and 6 indicators flash in the
viewfinder, and you cannot record.
To re-record on this tape, slide the tab back out covering the red mark.

EJECT

PUSH

11

Basic operations

Basic operations

Camera recording

Make sure that the power source is installed, a cassette is inserted and that the START/
STOP MODE switch is set to . Before you record one-time events, you may want to
make a trial recording to make sure that the camcorder is working correctly.
When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time
to your time before you start recording. (p.47)
The date is automatically recorded for 10 seconds after you start recording (AUTO
DATE feature). This feature works only once a day.
To save battery power, the picture in the viewfinder appears only when you bring your
face close to the viewfinder with STANDBY up (Finder power save).

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to

CAMERA.

(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) Press START/STOP. The camcorder starts recording. The “REC” indicator

appears. The camera recording/battery lamps located on the front light up.
The AUTO DATE indicator appears.

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

2

3

1

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

CAMERA

POWER

OFF

VTR

40 min

.

REC

0:00:01

AUTO DATE

STBY

0:00:00

SP

40 min.

12

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

To stop recording momentarily [a]

Press START/STOP again. The “STBY” indicator appears in the viewfinder (Standby
mode).

To finish recording [b]

Press START/STOP again. Turn STANDBY down and set the POWER switch to OFF.
Then, eject the cassette and remove the battery pack.

To focus the viewfinder lens

If you cannot see the indicators in the viewfinder clearly, or after someone else has used
the camcorder, focus the viewfinder lens. Turn the viewfinder lens adjustment lever so
that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus.

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

40 min.

STBY

0:35:20

[b]

[a]

Camera recording

Note on the lighting aperture

If direct sunlight enters the lighting aperture, the picture in the viewfinder appears
brighter. When this happens, colors in the viewfinder may change.

Note on Standby mode

If you leave the camcorder in Standby mode for 5 minutes while the cassette is inserted,
the camcorder turns off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and
wearing out the tape. To resume Standby mode, turn STANDBY down and up again.
To start recording, press START/STOP.

Notes on recording mode

•This camcorder records and plays back in SP (standard play) mode and in LP (long
play) mode. However, the playback quality in LP mode will not be as good as that in
SP mode.

•When you record a tape in LP mode on this camcorder, we recommend you to play
the tape on this camcorder. When you play back the tape on other camcorders or
VCRs, noise may occur on a picture or sound.
Noise may occur also when you play on this camcorder the tape recorded in LP mode
on other camcorders or VCRs.

Note on recording

When you record from the beginning of a tape, run the tape for about 15 seconds before
starting the actual recording. This will ensure that you won’t miss any start-up scenes
when you play back the tape.

13

Basic operations

Camera recording

Notes on the tape counter

•The tape counter indicates the recording or playback 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.

•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 as a guide,
record in same (SP or LP) mode.

Note on the beep sound

As indicated with ≥ in the illustration, 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.
Note that the beep sound is not recorded on the tape. If you do not want to hear the
beep sound, select “OFF” in the menu system.

Note on the AUTO DATE feature

The clock is set to East Coast Standard Time at the factory. You can reset the clock in the
menu system. You can change the AUTO DATE settings by selecting ON or OFF in the
menu system. The AUTO DATE feature shows the date automatically 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 tape again.
– you stop recording within 10 seconds.
– you set AUTO DATE to OFF once and set it to ON again in the menu system.

Notes on finder power save

•The recording continues even when the picture in the viewfinder disappears during
recording.

•If you set VF PW-SAVE to off in the menu system, the picture in the viewfinder does
not disappear even when you turn your face away from the viewfinder.

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

[a][b]

TW

TW

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 function sparingly.
“T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer)
“W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away)

Camera recording

Zooming speed (Variable speed zooming)

Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom, move it further for a faster zoom.

When you shoot a subject using a telephoto zoom

If you cannot get a sharp focus while in extreme telephoto zoom, move the power zoom
lever to the “W” side until the focus is sharp. You can shoot a subject that is at least
about 2 5/8 feet (about 80cm) away from the lens surface in the telephoto position, or
about 1/2 inch (about 1cm) away in the wide-angle position.

Notes on digital zoom

•More than 15x zoom is performed digitally (x30), and the picture quality deteriorates
as you go toward the “T” side. If you do not want to use the digital zoom, set the D
ZOOM function to OFF in the menu system.

•The right side [a] in the power zoom indicator shows the digital zooming zone, and
the left side [b] shows the optical zooming zone. If you set the D ZOOM function to
OFF, the [a] zone disappears.

W

T

T

W

T

W

15

Basic operations

40min.

REC

40min.

REC

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

1

2

ANTI GROUND

SHOOTING

START/STOP MODE

To extend the recording time in 5 SEC mode

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

To return to normal recording

Set the START/STOP MODE switch to . If you set the switch while recording,
recording continues.

Note on 5-SEC and ANTI GROUND SHOOTING mode

You cannot use FADER if you select 5 SEC or ANTI GROUND SHOOTING .

Camera recording

Selecting the SATRT/STOP mode

Your camcorder has two modes besides normal start/stop mode. These modes enable
you to take a series of quick shots resulting in a lively video.

(1) Set the START/STOP MODE switch to the desired mode.

: Recording starts when you press START/STOP, and stops when you

press it again (normal mode).
ANTI GROUND SHOOTING

: The camcorder records only while you

press down START/STOP so that you can avoid recording unnecessary scenes.
5 SEC: When you press START/STOP, the camcorder records for 5 seconds

and then stops automatically.

(2) Turn STANDBY up and press START/STOP. Recording starts.

If you selected 5 SEC, five dots appear in the viewfinder. The dots disappear at a rate of
one per second. When five seconds elapse and all the dots disappear, the camcorder
switches to Standby mode automatically.

16

2

3

1

[a] [b]

Hints for better shooting

[c] [d]

For hand-held shots, you’ll get better results by holding the camcorder according to the
following suggestions:

•Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily
manipulate the controls with your thumb [a].

•Place your right elbow against your side.

•Place your left hand under the camcorder to support it. Be sure not to touch the built­in microphone.

•Place your eye firmly against the viewfinder eyecup.

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

•You can also record in a low position to get an interesting recording angle. Lift the
viewfinder up to record 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 that the length of the tripod screw is less
than 9/32 inch (6.5 mm). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw
may damage 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 viewfinder may be damaged. Be careful when placing the camcorder under
sunlight or by a window [d].

17

Basic operations

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, set it to

CAMERA.

(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) Press the – (Œ) side of EDITSEARCH momentarily; the last few seconds of the

recorded portion play back (Rec Review).
You can monitor the sound from the headphones.
Hold 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 (Edit Search).

To stop playback

Release 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.

EDITSEARCH

2

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

EDITSEARCH

1

EDITSEARCH

3

CAMERA

POWER

OFF

VTR

18

[a]

[b]

S VIDEO OUT

S VIDEO
VIDEO
AUDIO

IN

VIDEO OUT

AUDIO OUT

Connections for playback

: Signal flow

You can use this camcorder as a VCR by connecting it to your TV for playback. There
are some ways to connect the camcorder to your TV. When monitoring the playback
picture by connecting the camcorder to your TV, we recommend you to use house
current for the power source.

Connecting directly to a VCR/TV with Video/Audio input jacks

Open the jack cover. If your TV is already connected to a VCR, connect the camcorder to
the LINE IN inputs on the VCR by using the supplied A/V connecting cable. Set the
input selector on the VCR to LINE. Set the TV/VCR selector on the TV to VCR.
If your VCR or TV has an S video jack, connect using the S video cable (not supplied)
[a] to obtain a high quality picture.

If you are going to connect the camcorder using the S video cable (not supplied) [a],
you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable [b].

If your VCR or TV is a monaural type

Connect only the white plug for audio on both the camcorder and the VCR or the TV.
With this connection, the sound is monaural even in stereo mode.

To connect to a VCR or TV without Video/Audio input jacks

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

(not supplied)

19

Basic operations

To cancel the LASER LINK function

Press LASER LINK.

Using the AV cordless IR receiver – LASER LINK

Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (not supplied) having the LASER
LINK mark to your TV or VCR, you can easily view the picture on your TV. For details,
refer to the instruction manual of the AV cordless IR receiver. LASER LINK is a system
which transmits and receives a picture and sound between video equipment having the

mark by using infrared rays. LASER LINK is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

(1) Connect the receiver to the TV, and turn on the IR receiver power.
(2) Turn on the TV power, and set the TV/VCR selector on the TV to VCR.
(3) Set the POWER switch to VTR and press LASER LINK on the camcorder.

The LASER LINK button indicator lights up.

(4) Press · on the camcorder.

The picture appears on the TV screen.

(5) Point the IR transmitter on the camcorder toward the infrared sensor on the IR

receiver so that the blue background clearly appears on the TV.

Playing back a tape

IR transmitter

LASER LINK

20

Playing back a tape

You can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can also monitor a picture
on a TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to a TV or VCR.

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

The video control buttons light up.

(2) Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out.
(3) Press 0 to rewind the tape.
(4) Press · to start playback.

To stop playback, press π.
To rewind the tape, press 0.
To fast-forward the tape rapidly, press ).

Using the remote commander

You can control playback using the supplied Remote Commander. Before using the
Remote Commander, insert the size AA (R6) batteries.

To display the viewfinder screen indicators on the TV

Press DISPLAY on the Remote Commander. To erase the indicators, press DISPLAY
again.

To monitor the sound while viewing the playback picture in the viewfinder

Connect headphones (not supplied) to the 2 jack.

Note on the lens cover

The lens cover does not open when the POWER switch is set to VTR. Do not open the
lens cover manually. It may cause malfunction.

PLAY

3

4

REW

1

DISPLAY

PLAY

REW

FF

STOP

PAUSE

SLOW

CAMERA

POWER

OFF

VTR

2

21

Basic operations

Playing back a tape

Various playback modes

To view a still picture (playback pause)

Press P during playback. To resume playback, press P or ·.

To locate a scene (picture search)

Keep pressing 0 or ) during playback. To resume normal playback, release the
button.

To monitor the high-speed picture while advancing the tape or
rewinding (skip scan)

Keep pressing 0 while rewinding or ) while advancing the tape. To resume
normal playback, press ·.

To view the picture at 1/5 speed (slow playback)

Press & on the Remote Commander during playback. To resume normal playback,
press ·. If slow playback lasts for about 1 minute, it shifts to normal speed
automatically.

To select the playback sound

Change the “HiFi SOUND” mode setting in the menu system.

Notes on playback

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

•When playback pause mode lasts for 5 minutes, the camcorder automatically enters
stop mode.

22

Place
Indoors
Outdoors

In the car

Advanced operations

Using alternative power sources

12

You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack,
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.

Power source

House current
Battery pack

Size AA (LR6) Alkaline battery
12 V or 24 V car battery

Accessory to be used

Supplied AC power adaptor
InfoLITHIUM battery NP-F330 (supplied),

NP-F530, NP-F730, NP-F930
Battery case (supplied)

Sony car battery charger DC-V515A

Note on power sources

Disconnecting the power source or removing the battery pack during recording or
playback may damage the inserted tape. If this happens, restore the power supply again
immediately.

Using the house current

To use the supplied AC power adaptor:

(1) Connect the AC power cord to a wall outlet.
(2) Slide the connecting plate down into the guides at the rear of the camcorder

until it clicks.

To remove the connecting plate

The connecting plate is removed in the same way as battery pack.

WARNING

The power cord must only be changed at a qualified service shop.

PRECAUTION

The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected
to the wall outlet, even if the set itself has been turned off.

Notes on the VTR/CAMERA lamp

•The VTR/CAMERA lamp will remain lit for a while even if the unit is unplugged
after use. This is normal.

•If the VTR/CAMERA lamp does not light, disconnect the power cord. After about one
minute, reconnect the power cord.

23

Advanced Operations

123

Using alkaline batteries

Use the battery case (supplied) and six size AA (LR6) Sony 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.

Using alternative power sources

Battery Life

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

Continuous recording time 165 min.
Typical recording time 95 min.

Notes

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

•The battery life may be shorter depending on the using environment.

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

When the battery case is installed

Slightly raise the viewfinder when you use the camcorder.

To remove the battery case

The battery case is removed in the same way as the battery pack.
When you replace the batteries, be sure to remove the battery case from the camcorder
to prevent malfunction.

Using a car battery

Use Sony DC-V515A car battery charger (not supplied). Connect the car battery cord to
the cigarette lighter socket of a car (12 V or 24 V). Connect the car battery charger and to
the camcorder in the same way as you connect the AC power adaptor.

To remove the car battery charger

The car battery charger is removed in the same way as the AC power adaptor.

This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony
video products.
When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you
purchase accessories with this “GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES”
mark.

24

Changing the mode settings

You can change the mode settings in the menu system to further enjoy the features and
functions of the camcorder.

(1) Press MENU to display the menu.
(2) Turn the control dial to select the desired item, then press the dial.
(3) Turn the control dial to select the desired mode, then press the dial. If you

want to change the other modes, repeat steps 2 and 3.

(4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE

WIND OFF

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

1

1

2

1

2

5

CAMERA VTR

OFF

2

3

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE

WIND OFF

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

MENU

BEEP
[MENU] : END

MENU

BEEP

ON

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE

WIND

ON

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

EDIT
HiFi SOUND
REC MODE

COMMANDER ON

TBC
DNR

MENU

TITLE LANG
TITLE1 SET
TITLE2 SET

TITLE POS

ON

D ZOOM
BEEP
VF PW SAVE

[MENU] : END

[MENU] : END

OFF

MENU

BEEP

ON

[MENU] : END

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

MENU

MENU

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

MENU

TITLE LANG
TITLE1 SET
TITLE2 SET

TITLE POS

OFF

D ZOOM
BEEP
VF PW SAVE

[MENU] : END

25

Advanced Operations

Selecting the mode setting of each item

Items for both CAMERA and VTR modes

COMMANDER <ON/OFF>

•Select ON when using the supplied Remote Commander for the camcorder.

•Select OFF when not using the Remote Commander.

REC MODE∗ <SP/LP>

•Select SP when recording in SP (standard play) mode.

•Select LP when recording in LP (long play) mode.

BEEP∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON so that beeps sound when you start/stop recording, etc.

•Select OFF when you do not want to hear the beep sound.

VF PW-SAVE∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON so that the picture in the viewfinder appears only when you bring your face
close to the viewfinder.

•Select OFF when you want to display the picture in the viewfinder all the time.

Items for CAMERA mode only

WIND <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to reduce wind noise when recording in strong wind.

•Normally select OFF.

ORC TO SET∗ <ORC ON>

Select this item and press the START/STOP button to automatically adjust the
recording condition to get the best possible recording. If you have already perform this
function, “ORC ON” is displayed.

TITLE COL∗ <WHITE/YELLOW/VIOLET/RED/CYAN/GREEN/BLUE>

Select the color of the title.

TITLE POS∗ <CENTER/BOTTOM>

•Select CENTER to center the title in the picture.

•Select BOTTOM to position the title at the bottom of the picture.

TITLE LANG∗ <ENGLISH/FRANÇAIS/ESPAÑOL/PORTUGUÊS>

Select the language of the preset titles.

TITLE 1 SET∗ TITLE 2 SET

∗

Select to store your own original titles.

D ZOOM∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to activate digital zooming.

•Select OFF not to use the digital zoom. The camera goes back to 15x zoom.

REC LAMP∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select OFF when you do not want the camera recording/battery lamp at the front of
the unit to light up.

•Normally select ON.

Changing the mode settings

26

Changing the mode settings

AUTO DATE∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to record the date for 10 seconds after recording has started.

•Select OFF not to record the date.

CLOCK SET

∗

Select this item to reset the date or time.

DEMO MODE∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to make the demonstration appear without cassette.

•Select OFF to deactivate the demonstration mode.

Notes on DEMO MODE

•DEMO MODE is set to STBY (Standby) at the factory and the demonstration starts
about 10 minutes after you set the POWER switch to CAMERA without inserting a
cassette. Note that you cannot select STBY of DEMO MODE in the menu system.

•You cannot select DEMO MODE when a cassette is inserted in the camcorder.

•If you insert a cassette during the demonstration, the demonstration stops. You can
start recording as usual. DEMO MODE automatically returns to STBY.

To look at the demonstration at once

Eject the cassette, if inserted. Select ON of DEMO MODE and erase the menu display.
The demonstration will begin. When you turn off the camcorder once, DEMO MODE
automatically returns to STBY.

Items for VTR mode only

EDIT <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to minimize picture deterioration when editing.

•Normally select OFF.

HiFi SOUND <STEREO/1/2>

•Normally select STEREO.

•Select 1 or 2 to play back a dual sound track tape.

TBC∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to correct for jitter.

•Select OFF not to correct for jitter.
The picture may not be steady when played back.

Note on TBC setting

Set TBC to OFF when playing back:

•A tape you have dubbed over.

•A tape on which you recorded the signal of a TV game or similar machine.
If the playback picture fluctuates while you hold the camcorder, set TBC to OFF.

DNR∗ <ON/OFF>

•Select ON to reduce noise.

•Select OFF to not reduce noise.

The following settings work only during playback

EDIT, HiFi SOUND, TBC, and DNR.
∗ These settings are retained even when the battery is removed, as long as the lithium

battery is in place.

27

Advanced Operations

Fade-in and fade-out

You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance.
When fading in, the picture gradually fades in from black or mosaic while the sound
increases. When fading out, the picture gradually fades to black or mosaic while the
sound decreases.

When fading in [a]

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER. The fade indicator

starts flashing.

(2) Press START/STOP to start recording. The fade indicator stops flashing.

When fading out [b]

(1) During recording, press FADER. The fade indicator starts flashing.
(2) Press START/STOP to stop recording. The fade indicator stops flashing, and

then recording stops.

To cancel the fade-in/fade-out function

Before pressing START/STOP, press FADER until the fade indicator disappears.

When the date or time indicator is displayed

The date or time indicator does not fade in or fade out.

Notes on titles

•While fading in or fading out, you cannot superimpose a title.

•While a title is displayed, the picture does not fade in or out.

When START/STOP MODE is set to 5SEC or ANTI GROUND SHOOTING

You cannnot use the fader function.

FADER

2

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

1

M.FADER

FADER

[a]

FADER

M.FADER

RECSTBY

RECSTBY

[b]

28

Using the wide mode function

Selecting the desired mode

You can record a cinemalike picture (CINEMA) or a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the
16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9 FULL).

CINEMA

Black bands appear at the top and the bottom of the screen, and the viewfinder [a] and
a normal TV screen [b] look wide. You can also watch the picture without black bands
on a wide-screen TV [c]. When you select the CINEMA mode, DATE, TIME and the
battery indicators are displayed above.

16:9 FULL

The picture in the viewfinder [d] or on a normal TV [e] is horizontally compressed. You
can watch the picture of normal images on a wide-screen TV [f].

Using the wide mode function

While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press 16:9 WIDE repeatedly so that the
desired mode indicator appears in viewfinder. While recording, you cannot change the
mode.

[b]

CINEMA

[a]

[c]

[e]

[f]

CINEMA

16:9 FULL

16:9 FULL

[d]

16:9 FULL

CINEMA

16:9 WIDE

29

Advanced Operations

Enjoying picture effect

Using the wide mode function

To cancel wide mode

Press 16:9 WIDE repeatedly until the wide mode indicator disappears.

To watch the tape recorded in wide mode

To watch the tape recorded in CINEMA mode, set the screen mode of the wide-screen
TV to zoom mode. To watch the tape recorded in 16:9 FULL mode, set it to full mode.
For details, refer to the instruction manual of your TV.
Note that the picture recorded in 16:9 FULL mode looks compressed on a normal TV.

Notes on wide mode

•If wide mode is set to 16:9 FULL, the Steady Shot function does not work and the
“ ” indicator flashes.

•When you record in 16:9 FULL mode, the date or time indicator will be widened on
the wide-screen TV.

•If you dub a tape, the tape is copied in the same mode as the original recording.

•The wide mode is canceled automatically 5 minutes after you remove the power
source.

•When recording, you cannot change the mode.

PASTEL [a]

Emphasize contrast and gives picture
animation-like colors.

NEG. ART [b]

The color and brightness of the picture is
reversed.

SEPIA

The picture is sepia.

B&W

The picture is monochrome (black and
white).

Selecting picture effect

You can make pictures like those of television with the Picture Effect function.

SOLARIZE [c]

The light intensity is more clear, and the
picture looks like an illustration.

MOSAIC [d]

The picture is mosaic.

SLIM [e]

The picture expands vertically.

STRETCH [f]

The picture expands horizontally.

[a] [b] [c] [d] [e] [f]

30

Enjoying picture effect

Using picture effect function

(1) Press PICTURE EFFECT.
(2) Turn the control dial to select the desired picture effect mode.

To turn off picture effect

Press PICTURE EFFECT. The indicator in the viewfinder goes out.

Note on the picture effect

When you turn the power off, the camcorder returns automatically to normal mode.

12

PASTEL

NEG. ART

SEPIA

B & W

SOLARIZE

MOSAIC

SLIM

STRETCH

PICTURE
EFFECT

SEL/PUSH EXEC

31

Advanced Operations

Focusing manually

•Insufficient light [a]

•Subjects with little contrast — walls, sky, etc. [b]

•Too much brightness behind the subject [c]

•Horizontal stripes [d]

•Subjects through frosted glass

•Subjects beyond nets, etc.

•Bright subject or subject reflecting light

•Shooting a stationary subject when using a tripod

When to use manual focus

In the following cases you should obtain better results by adjusting the focus manually.

[a] [b] [c] [d]

32

Focusing manually

To return to autofocus mode

Set FOCUS to AUTO. The f indicator in the viewfinder disappears.

Shooting in relatively dark places

Shoot at wide-angle after focusing in the telephoto position.

To record a very distant subject

Push FOCUS down to INFINITY. The lens focuses on the most distant subject while
FOCUS is held down. When it is released, manual focus mode is resumed. Use this
function when shooting through a window or a screen, to focus on a most distant
subject.

Note on manual focusing

The following indicators may appear:

: when recording a very distant subject.
: when the subject is too close to focus on.

Focusing manually

When focusing manually, first focus in telephoto before recording, and then reset the
shot length.

(1) Set FOCUS to MANUAL. The f indicator appears in the viewfinder.
(2) Move the power zoom lever to the “T” side until the lever reaches the end.
(3) Turn the NEAR/FAR dial to achieve a sharp focus. Be sure not to touch the

built-in microphone when you turn the NEAR/FAR dial.

(4) Set the desired shot length using the power zoom lever.

2

3

1

TW

TW

W

T

W

T

NEAR

FAR

FOCUS

AUTO

MANUAL
INFINITY

33

Advanced Operations

Using the PROGRAM AE function

Spotlight mode

For subjects in spotlight, such as at the theatre or a formal event.

a Soft portrait mode

For zooming in on a still subject in telephoto mode, or for a subject behind an obstacle
such as a screen. Creates a soft background for subjects such as people or flowers, and
faithfully reproduces skin color.

A Sports lesson mode

For recording fast-moving subjects such as in tennis or golf games.

Beach & ski mode

For people or faces in strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or
on a snowy winter mountain.

Sunset & moon mode

For recording subjects in dark environnments such as sunsets, fireworks, neon signs, or
general night views.

Landscape mode

For distant subjects such as mountains or when recording a subject behind an obstacle
such as a window or screen.

Selecting the best mode

You can select one of six PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) modes to suit your shooting
situation, referring to the following.

a

A

34

Using the PROGRAM AE function

Using the PROGRAM AE function

(1) Press PROGRAM AE.
(2) Turn the control dial to select the desired PROGRAM AE mode.

To turn off program AE

Press PROGRAM AE.

Notes on focus setting

•In the Spotlight, Sports lesson and Beach & Ski modes, you cannot take close-ups
because the camcorder is set to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance.

•In the Sunset & Moon and Landscape modes, the camcorder is set to focus only on
distant subjects.

Note on PROGRAM AE

You can adjust the exposure while recording using PROGRAM AE mode.

1

2

SEL/PUSH EXEC

PROGRAM

35

Advanced Operations

Shooting with backlighting

[a] Subject is too dark because of backlight.
[b] Subject becomes bright with backlight compensation.

After shooting

Be sure to release this adjustment condition by pressing BACK LIGHT again. The c
indicator disappears. Otherwise, the picture will be too bright under normal lighting
condition.

This function is also effective under the following conditions:

•On snow, e.g. at a 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.

To make a fine adjustment

You can adjust the exposure manually. However, when you adjust the exposure
manually, BACK LIGHT does not operate.

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

Press BACK LIGHT. The c indicator appears in the viewfinder.

[a]

[b]

BACK LIGHT

c

36

Adjusting the exposure

[a]

•The background is too bright (back lighting)

•Insufficient light: most of the picture is dark

[b]

•Bright subject and dark background

•To record the darkness faithfully

Adjusting the exposure

(1) Press EXPOSURE.
(2) Turn the control dial to adjust the brightness.

When to adjust the exposure

Adjust the exposure manually under the following cases.

To return to automatic exposure mode

Press EXPOSURE again.

Shooting with the sun behind you

If the light source is behind your subject, or in the following situations, the subject will
be recorded too dark.

•The subject is indoors and there is a window behind the subject.

•Bright light sources are included in the scene.

•When shooting a person wearing white or shiny clothes in front of a white
background, the face will be recorded too dark.

[a][b]

EXPOSURE

1

2

SEL/PUSH EXEC

37

Advanced Operations

Shooting in the dark

We recommend you to use a video light (not supplied). To get the best color, you must
maintain a sufficient light level.

When you adjust the exposure manually

•BACK LIGHT does not appear.

•If you press PROGRAM AE, the camcorder automatically returns to automatic
exposure mode.

Adjusting the exposure

Superimposing a title

You can select one of eight preset titles. You can also select the language, position, and
color of titles in the menu system.

Selecting the language

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu.
(2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE LANG, then press the dial.
(3) Turn the control dial to select the desired language, then press the dial.
(4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

SEL/PUSH EXECSEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC SEL/PUSH EXEC

2

3

MENU
COMMANDER

ORC TO SET
REC MODE

ENGLISH

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

MENU

TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

ENGLISH
FRANÇAIS
ESPAÑOL
PORTUGUÊS

MENU

TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

TITLE1 SET

MENU
COMMANDER

ORC TO SET
REC MODE

ESPAÑOL

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

TITLE1 SET

1

MENU

ENGLISH
FRANÇAIS
ESPAÑOL
PORTUGUÊS

38

Using titles

To add the title from the beginning

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press TITLE repeatedly until the

desired title appears.
Each time a new title appears, it flashes. When the desired title appears, wait
for it to stop flashing.

(2) Press START/STOP to start recording.
(3) When you want to stop recording the title, press TITLE.

To add the title while you are recording

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press TITLE repeatedly until the

desired title appears.
Each time a new title appears, it flashes.

(2) When the desired title appears, wait for it to stop flashing, and press TITLE

again to erase the title from the display.

(3) Press START/STOP to start recording.
(4) When you reach the point where you want to add the title, press TITLE.
(5) When you want to stop recording the title, press TITLE again.

Superimposing a title

Titles cycle as follows:

Original title 1 n Original title 2 n HELLO! n HAPPY BIRTHDAY n HAPPY
HOLIDAYS n CONGRATULATIONS! n OUR SWEET BABY n WEDDING n
VACATION n THE END
After “THE END” the title indicator goes off once and returns to Original title 1 again.
The titles are displayed in the language you selected in the menu system.

Notes on superimposing a title

•If you have not made any original titles, they are not displayed.

•You cannot select a title while you are recording.

•FADER does not work while the title is displayed.

•A title, a date and time cannot be recorded at the same time.

•When fading in or out you cannot display a title.

•If you display the menu while superimposing a title, the title is not recorded while the
menu is being displayed.

TITLE

39

Advanced Operations

Superimposing a title

To select the color of the title

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu.
(2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE COL, then press the dial.
(3) Turn the control dial to select the desired color, then press the dial.

You can choose from the following 7 colors:
WHITE ˜ YELLLOW ˜ VIOLET ˜ RED ˜ CYAN ˜ GREEN ˜
BLUE

(4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

To select the position of the title

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu.
(2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE POS, then press the dial.
(3) Turn the control dial to select the desired position (CENTER or BOTTOM),

then press the dial.

(4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

MENU

1

2

3

WHITE
YELLOW
VIOLET
RED
CYAN
GREEN
BLUE

1

2

1

2

CENTER
BOTTOM

MENU

TITLE POS

[MENU]: END

CENTER
BOTTOM

MENU

TITLE POS

[MENU]: END

MENU

TITLE COL

[MENU]: END

GREEN

MENU

WIND
COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE
TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU]: END

WHITE
YELLOW
VIOLET
RED
CYAN
GREEN
BLUE

MENU

TITLE COL

[MENU]: END

TITLE COL TITLE POS

WHITE

MENU

WIND
COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE
TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU]: END

CENTER

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE
TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG
TITLE1 SET

[MENU]: END

BOTTOM

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE
TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG
TITLE1 SET

[MENU]: END

40

Making your own titles

You can make up to two titles and store them in the camcorder. Eject the cassette before
you begin. Your title can have up to 22 letters.

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu.
(2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE1 SET or TITLE2 SET, then press the dial.
(3) Turn the control dial to select the desired character, then press the dial.

To move the cursor to the character on the left side, select M.

(4) Repeat step 3 until you finish the title.
(5) When you are finished, turn the control dial to select

, then press the dial.

(6) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

To edit the title you have stored

In step 2, select TITLE 1 SET or TITLE 2 SET, whichever title you want to edit is stored
in. Then change the title.

If you do nothing more than 5 minutes while a cassette is in the camcorder

The power goes off automatically. Turn STANDBY down once, turn it again up and
proceed from step 1.

When you enter 22 letters in step 4

The title is stored automatically. (You do not need to got to step 5.)

To delete a title

At the leftmost character position, select and press the control dial. Do not erase the
title by selecting empty spaces. If you do so, a title full of empty spaces is stored.

Â

–

A

µ

•

>

MENU

TITLE1 SET NEW YORK

[MENU]: END

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

2

35

– – – – – –

>

MENU
ORC TO SET

REC MODE
TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG
TITLE1 SET
TITLE2 SET

[MENU]: END

MENU

TITLE1 SET

[MENU]: END

Â

L
M
N
O
P

µ

– – – – – – –

>

MENU

TITLE1 SET

[MENU]: END

Â

C
D
E
F
G

µ

– – – – – –

>

N

1

MENU

41

Advanced Operations

Recording with the date/time

Before you start recording or during recording, press DATE or TIME. You can record
the date or time displayed in the viewfinder with the picture. Press DATE (or TIME),
then press TIME (or DATE) to display date and time together.
The clock is already set to East Coast Standard Time at the factory. You can reset the
clock in the menu system.

To stop recording with the date and/or time

Press DATE and/or TIME again. The date and/or time indicator disappears. The
recording continues.

Note on the date or time indicator

If you press DATE or TIME while you are recording in CINEMA mode, the indicators
in the viewfinder move upwards.

JUL 4 1997

5:30:00 PM

DATE

DATE

TIME

TIME

5:30:00 PM

JUL 4 1997

42

Optimizing the recording condition

Use this feature to check the tape condition before recording, so that you can get the
best possible picture (ORC).

(1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu.
(2) Turn the control dial to select ORC TO SET, then press the dial.

“START/STOP KEY” starts flashing.

(3) Press START/STOP.

The ORC indicator starts flashing. The camcorder takes about 10 seconds to
check the tape condition and then returns to Standby mode.

If the cassette has been ejected

Every time you eject the cassette, ORC is canceled. Set ORC again.

To check if you have performed ORC

If the ORC indicator lights up in the display window, the tape condition has been
checked.

Notes on the ORC function

•When you set ORC TO SET, the recording on the tape is erased for about 0.1 second so
that the camcorder can check the tape condition. Be careful when you use a recorded
tape. The 0.1 second blank is erased if you record from the point where you set ORC
TO SET for more than 2 seconds, or if you record over the blank.

•You cannot use this function on a tape with the red mark on the cassette exposed.

•While the ORC function is turned on, you cannot operate the power zoom lever.

3

1

2

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE

WIND

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

START/STOP

KEY

ORC

STBY

0:00:00

40 min

.

START/STOP

L

O

C

K

S

T

A

N

D

B

Y

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

MENU

12

43

Advanced Operations

Editing onto another tape

: Signal flow

You can create your own video program by editing with any other h 8 mm, H Hi8,
j VHS, k S-VHS,  VHSC, K S-VHSC, l Betamax or ¬ ED Betamax
VCR that has video/audio inputs.

Before editing

Connect the camcorder to the VCR using the supplied A/V connecting cable.
Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE, if available.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, slide it to VTR.
(2) Set EDIT to ON in the menu system.

Starting editing

(1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert

your recorded tape into the camcorder.

(2) Play back the recorded tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where

you want to start editing, then press P to set the camcorder in playback pause
mode.

(3) On the VCR, locate the recording start point and set the VCR in recording

pause mode.

(4) Press P on the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start editing.

To edit more scenes

Repeat steps 2 to 4.

To stop editing

Press π on both the camcorder and the VCR.

Note on the DISPLAY function

If you have displayed the viewfinder screen indicators on the TV, erase the indicators
by pressing DISPLAY on the Remote Commander so that they will not be
superimposed on the edited tape.

Note on Fine Synchro Edit

If you connect a video deck that has the Fine Synchro Edit feature to the LANC l jack
of the camcorder, using a LANC cable (not supplied), the edit will be even more
precise.

:Signal flow

1

123

MENU

[MENU]:END

EDIT OFF

2

ON

MENU

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

CAMERA

POWER

OFF

VTR

44

Recording from a VCR or TV

You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV program from a TV that has audio/
video outputs. Connect the camcorder to the VCR or TV.

(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, slide it to VTR.
(2) Press REC r and the button on the right together at the point where you want

to start recording.

In recording and recording pause mode, S VIDEO and VIDEO/AUDIO jacks
automatically work as input jacks.
If your VCR or TV has an S video jack, connect using the S video cable (not supplied)
[a] to obtain a high quality picture.

: Signal flow

If your VCR or TV is a monaural type, connect only the white plug for audio on both
the camcorder and the VCR or TV.
If you are going to connect the camcorder using the S video cable (not supplied) [a], you
do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable [b].

To check the picture from a VCR or TV before recording

Press P after pressing r. You can check the picture in the viewfinder.

To stop recording

Press π.

TV

VCR

[a]

[b]

1

2

REC

CAMERA

POWER

OFF

VTR

AUDIO

VIDEO

VIDEO OUT

S VIDEO OUT

AUDIO OUT

S VIDEO

(not supplied)

45

Advanced Operations

Releasing the STEADY SHOT function

When you shoot, the indicator appears in the viewfinder. This indicates that the
Steady Shot function is working and the camcorder compensates for camera-shake.

You can release the Steady Shot function when you do not need to use the Steady Shot
function. Do not use the Steady Shot function when shooting a stationary object with a
tripod.

Set STEADY SHOT to OFF. The indicator goes off.

To activate the Steady Shot function again

Set STEADY SHOT to ON. The indicator appears in the viewfinder.

Notes on the Steady Shot function

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

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

•Steady Shot does not operate when you select the 16:9 FULL mode. If you set
STEADY SHOT to ON, the indicator flashes.

ON OFF

STEADY SHOT

46

Additional Information

Changing the lithium battery in the camcorder

Your camcorder is supplied with a lithium battery installed. When the battery becomes
weak or dead, the I indicator flashes in the viewfinder 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 lithium battery. Use of any other battery may present
a risk of fire or explosion. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s

instructions.
The lithium battery for the camcorder lasts for about 1 year under normal operation.
(The lithium battery that comes installed at the factory may not last 1 year.)

WARNING

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

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, time and other items in the menu
system retained by the lithium battery.

(1) Open the lid of the lithium battery compartment.
(2) Push the lithium battery down once and pull it out from the holder.
(3) Install the lithium battery with the positive (+) side facing out. Close the lid.

Notes on lithium battery

•Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children.
Should the battery be swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.

•Wipe the battery with a dry cloth to assure a good contact.

•Do not hold the battery with metallic tweezers, otherwise a short-circuit may occur.

•Note that the lithium battery has a positive (+) and a negative (–) side as illustrated.

Be sure to insert the lithium battery with the positive side facing out.

JUL 4 1997

(+) (--)-

12

3

C

R

2

0

2

5

C

R

2

0

2

5

47

Additional Information

Resetting the date and time

You can set the date and time in the menu system.

(1) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder.
(2) Turn the control dial to select CLOCK SET, then press the dial.
(3) Turn the control dial to adjust the year, and then press the dial.
(4) Set the month, day, hour and minutes by turning the control dial and then

pressing the dial.

(5) Press MENU to erase the menu display.

To correct the date and time setting

Repeat the above procedure.

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE

WIND OFF

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

1

3

4

2

1

2

3

4

12

1

2

MENU

[MENU] : END

[MENU] : END

[MENU] : END

[MENU] : END

[MENU] : END

1997 JAN 1

12 00 AM

CLOCK SET

MENU

1997 JAN 1

MENU

1998 JAN 1

MENU

1997 JAN 1

12 00 AM

CLOCK SET

1997 JUL 1

12 00 AM

CLOCK SET

1997 JUL 4

12 00 AM

CLOCK SET

1997 JUL 4

5 00 PM

CLOCK SET

1997 JUL 4

5 30 PM

CLOCK SET

MENU

D ZOOM
BEEP
VF PW-SAVE
REC LAMP

AUTO DATE

CLOCK SET

[MENU] : END

DEMO MODE

12:00:00 AM

JAN 1 1997

MENU

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

48

1997 1998 2029

••••

Usable cassettes and playback modes

Selecting cassette types

This Hi8 system is an extension of the standard 8 mm system, and was developed for
higher-quality pictures.
You can use Hi8 video and standard 8 mm cassettes. When you use a Hi8 video
cassette, the recording is in the Hi8 system. When you use a standard 8mm cassette, the
recording is in the standard 8 mm system. You cannot record on standard 8 mm
cassettes in the Hi8 system.
If you are going to play back the tape using a standard 8mm video recorder/player, you
should use standard 8 mm cassettes.

When you play back

The playback mode (SP/LP) and system (Hi8/standard 8 mm) are selected
automatically according to the format in which the tape has been recorded. The quality
of the recorded picture in LP mode, however, will not be as good as that in SP mode.

Note on AFM HiFi stereo

When you play back a tape, the sound will be in monaural if:

•You record the tape using this camcorder, then play it back on an AFM HiFi monaural
video recorder/player.

•You record the tape on an AFM HiFi monaural video recorder, then play it back on
this camcorder.

Foreign 8 mm video

Because the TV color systems differ from country to country, you may not be able to
play back foreign pre-recorded tapes. Refer to the list of “Using your camcorder
abroad” to check the TV color system of foreign countries.

To check the preset 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 off.

The year indicator changes as follows:

Note on the time indicator

The internal clock of this camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle.

•12:00 AM stands for midnight.

•12:00 PM stands for noon.

Resetting the date and time

49

Additional Information

Tips for using the battery pack

This section shows you how you can get the most out of your battery pack.

Preparing the battery pack

Always carry additional batteries

Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have
planned.

Battery life is shorter in a cold environment

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

To save battery power

Turn STANDBY 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 you are 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 tape is inserted or removed.

When to replace the battery pack

While you are using your camcorder, the remaining battery indicator in the viewfinder
decreases gradually as battery power is used up. The remaining time in minutes also
appears.

When the remaining battery indicator reaches the lowest point, the i indicator appears
and starts flashing in the viewfinder.
When the i indicator in the viewfinder changes from slow flashing to rapid flashing
while you are recording, slide the POWER switch to OFF on the camcorder and replace
the battery pack. Leave the tape in the camcorder to obtain a smooth transition between
scenes after the battery pack has been replaced.

Notes on the rechargeable battery pack

Caution

Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as in a car
parked in the sun or under direct sunlight.

The battery pack 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 and is normal.

50

Tips for using the battery pack

Battery pack care

•Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using it, and keep it in a cool
place. When the battery pack is installed to the camcorder, a small amount of current
flows to the camcorder even if the POWER switch is set to OFF. This shortens battery
life.

•The battery pack is always discharging even when it is not in use after charging.
Therefore, you should charge the battery pack right before using the camcorder.

Be sure to observe the following

•Keep the battery pack away from fire.

•Keep the battery pack dry.

•Do not open nor try to disassemble the battery pack.

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

The switch on the battery pack

When the switch is supplied with the battery pack you can use it to find whether the
battery pack is charged or not. Set the switch to the “green mark” position when
charging is completed. (When removed from the charging adaptor, the switch exposes
the green mark. When removed from your camcorder, no mark is indicated.)

The life of the battery pack

If the battery indicator flashes 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.

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.

Notes on the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack

What is the “InfoLITHIUM”

The “InfoLITHIUM” is a lithium ion battery pack which can exchange data with
compatible video equipment about its battery consumption. Sony recommends that you
use the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with video equipment having the
mark.
When you use this battery pack with video equipment having the mark, the
video equipment will indicate the remaining battery time in minutes∗. However, if you
use it with video equipment not having this mark, the remaining battery capacity will
not be indicated in minutes.
∗The indication may not be accurate depending on the condition and environment

which the equipment is used under.

51

Additional Information

Tips for using the battery pack

How the battery consumption is displayed

The power consumption of the camcorder changes depending on its use, such as how
the autofocusing is working.
While checking the condition of the camcorder, the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
measures the battery consumption and calculates the remaining battery power. If the
condition changed drastically, the remaining battery indication may suddenly decrease
or increase by more than 2 minutes.
Even if 5 to 10 minutes is indicated as the battery remaining time in the viewfinder, the
i indicator may also flash under some condition.

To obtain more accurate remaining battery indication

Set the camcorder to recording standby mode and point towards a stationary object. Do
not move the camcorder for 30 seconds or more.

•If the indication seems incorrect, use up the battery pack and then recharge it fully
(Full charge1)). Note that if you have used the battery in a hot or cold environment for
long time, or you have repeated charging many times, the battery pack may not be
able to show the correct time even after being fully charged.

•After you have used the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with an equipment not having
the mark, make sure that you use up the battery pack on the equipment
having the mark and then recharge fully.

Why the remaining battery indication does not match the
continuous recording time in the operation manual

The recording time is affected by the environmental temperature and conditions. The
recording time becomes very short in a cold environment. The continuous recording
time in the operation manual is measured under the condition of using a fully charged
(or normal charged2)) battery pack in 77°F (25°C). As the environmental temperature
and condition are different when you actually use the camcorder, the remaining battery
time is not same as the continuous recording time in the operation manual.

1)

Full charge: Charging for about 1 hour after the CHARGE lamp of the AC power
adaptor goes off.

2)

Normal charge: Charging just until the CHARGE lamp of the AC power adaptor goes
off.

Notes on charging

A brand-new battery pack

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

Recharge the battery pack whenever you like

You do not have to discharge it before recharging. If you charged the battery pack fully
but you did not use it for a long time, it becomes discharged. Then recharge the battery
pack before use.

Notes on the terminals

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

When the terminals are not clean or when the battery pack has not been used for a long
time, repeatedly install and remove the battery pack a few times. This improves the
contact condition. Also, wipe the + and – terminals with a soft cloth or paper.

52

Notes on the battery case

•Use only with alkaline batteries. You cannot use the battery case with
manganese batteries or size AA (LR6) rechargeable NiCd batteries.

•Using with Sony alkaline batteries is preferable.

•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.

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 water and then consult a
doctor.

Tips for using the battery pack

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. 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. Please, take the following precautions.

Inside the camcorder

If there is moisture inside the camcorder, the beep sounds and the { indicator flashes. If
this happens, none of the functions except cassette ejection will work. Open the cassette
compartment, turn off the camcorder, and leave it about 1 hour. When 6 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. The camcorder can be used
again if the { indicator does not appear when the power is turned on again.

On the lens

If moisture condenses on the lens, no indicator appears, 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).

53

Additional Information

Maintenance information and precautions

Video head cleaning

To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads. When the
v indicator and “ CLEANING CASSETTE” message appear one after another in the
viewfinder or playback pictures are “noisy” or hardly visible, the video heads may be
dirty.

[a] Slightly dirty
[b] Very dirty

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 in one session.)

Caution

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

Note

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

Precautions

Camcorder operation

•Operate the camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor).

•For DC or AC operation, use the accessories recommended in this manual.

•Should any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug the camcorder and have
it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further.

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

•Keep the POWER switch set to OFF when not using the camcorder.

•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.

On handling tapes

Do not insert anything in the small holes on the rear of the cassette. These holes are
used to sense the type of tape, thickness of tape and if the recording tab is in or out.

[a] [b]

54

Maintenance information and precautions

Camcorder care

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

•Do not let sand get into the camcorder. When you use the camcorder on a sandy beach
or in a dusty place, protect it from the sand or dust. Sand or dust may cause the unit to
malfunction, and sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired.

AC power adaptor

Charging

•Use only a lithium ion type battery pack.

•Place the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration during charging.

•The battery pack will get hot during charging. This is normal.

Others

•Unplug the unit from the wall outlet when not in use for a long time. To disconnect
the power cord, 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 forcibly, or put a heavy object on it. This will damage
the cord and may cause a fire or 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 be 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 while in use. This is normal.

•Do not place the unit in locations that are:
– Extremely hot or cold
– Dusty or dirty
– Very humid
– Vibrating

Notes on dry batteries

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

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

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

55

Additional Information

[a] [b]

AC-V316/V316A

Using your camcorder abroad

Each country or area has its own electric and TV color systems. Before using your
camcorder abroad, check the following points.

Power sources

You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the supplied AC power
adaptor within 110 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz.

Use a commercially available adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the
wall outlet [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.
Check the following list.

NTSC system

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

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

Brazil

PAL-N system

Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay

SECAM system

Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Guyana, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Poland,
Russia, Slovak Republic, Ukraine, etc.

56

Trouble check

If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to
troubleshoot the problem. Should the difficulty persist, disconnect the power source
and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

Camcorder

Power

Symptom

The power is not on.

The power goes off.

The battery pack is quickly
discharged.

The beep sounds when the
battery is attached.

When you turn off the power,
the lens makes a noise.

Operation

Symptom

START/STOP does not
operate.

Cause and/or Corrective Action

• The battery pack is not installed.
m Install the battery pack. (p. 8)

• The battery is dead.
m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 6)

• The AC power adaptor is not connected to a wall outlet.
m Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet. (p. 22)

• You use other types of battery except an “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack.
m Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 6)

• While being operated in CAMERA mode, the camcorder
has been in Standby mode for more than 5 minutes.
m Turn STANDBY down once and then up again. (p. 12)

• The battery is dead.
m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 6)

• If VF PW-SAVE is set to ON, the picture disappears
automatically when you turn your face away from the
viewfinder.
m Bring your face close to the viewfinder within 1/2 inch

(1 cm). Or set VF PW-SAVE to OFF. (p. 25)

• The ambient temperature is too low. (p. 49)

• The battery pack has not been charged fully.
m Charge the battery pack again. (p. 6)

• The battery pack is completely dead, and cannot be
recharged.
m Use another battery pack. (p. 8)

• You use other types of battery except an “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack.
m Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 6)

• The battery pack is discharged during a long period of
storage.
m Charge the battery pack again. (p.6)

• The camcorder is not malfunctioning.

Cause and/or Corrective Action

• The tape is stuck to the drum.
m Eject the tape. (p. 10)

• The tape has run out.
m Rewind the tape or use a new one. (p. 20)

• The POWER switch is set to VTR.
m Set it to CAMERA. (p. 11)

• The tab on the cassette is out (red).
m Use a new tape or slide the tab. (p.10)

57

Additional Information

Trouble check

Symptom

Recording stops in a few
seconds.

The cassette cannot be
removed from the holder.

{ and 6 indicators flash and
no function except for cassette
ejection works.

The counter, date or time
indicator is flashing.

The tape does not move when
a video control button is
pressed.

The SteadyShot function does
not activate.

The autofocusing function
does not work.

The fader function does not
activate.

No sound or only a low
sound is heard when playing
back a tape.

Excessive high-pitched sound
is heard.

The date or time indicator
disappears.

Cause and/or Corrective Action

• The START/STOP MODE switch is set to 5 SEC or ANTI
GROUND SHOOTING .
m Set it to . (p. 15)

• The battery is dead.
m Use a charged battery pack or the AC power adaptor.

(p. 6, 22)

• Moisture condensation has occurred.
m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least

1 hour. (p. 52)

• You pressed DATE and TIME together for more than 2
seconds.
m The camcorder is not malfunctioning. You may start

recording. Flashing will stop soon.

• The lithium battery is weak or dead.
m Replace the lithium battery with a new one. (p. 46)

• The POWER switch is set to CAMERA or OFF.
m Set it to VTR.

• The tape has run out.
m Rewind the tape or use a new one. (p. 20)

• STEADY SHOT is set to OFF.
m Set STEADY SHOT to ON. (p. 45)

• The SteadyShot function does not work when the wide
mode is set to 16:9 FULL.

• FOCUS is set to MANUAL.
m Set it to AUTO. (p. 31)

• Shooting conditions are not suitable for autofocus.
m Set FOCUS to MANUAL to focus manually. (p. 31)

• START/STOP MODE is set to 5 SEC or ANTI GROUND
SHOOTING .
m Set it to . (p. 15)

• A title is displayed.
m Stop superimposing the title.

• The stereo tape is played back with HiFi SOUND set to 1
or 2 in the menu system.
m Set to STEREO in the menu system. (p. 26)

• The picture has been recorded with WIND set to ON in the
menu system.
m When there is no wind, set it to OFF. (p. 25)

• Reset the date and time. (p. 47)

(to be continued)

58

Picture

Symptom

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.

A vertical band appears when
shooting a very bright subject.

The playback picture is not
clear.

The picture is “noisy”.

The picture does not appear
in the viewfinder.

The picture in the viewfinder
does not disappear even if VF
PW-SAVE is set to ON.

An unknown picture is
displayed in the viewfinder.

The five digit code appears.

Trouble check

Others

Symptom

The supplied Remote
Commander does not work.

Cause and/or Corrective Action

• COMMANDER is set to OFF in the menu system.
m Set it to ON. (p. 67)

• Something is blocking the infrared rays.
m Remove the obstacle.

• The batteries are not inserted with the correct polarity.
m Insert the batteries with the correct polarity. (p. 67)

• The batteries are dead.
m Insert new ones. (p. 67)

Cause and/or Corrective Action

• The viewfinder lens is not adjusted.
m Adjust the viewfinder lens. (p. 12)

• The contrast between the subject and background is too
high. The camcorder is not malfunctioning.
m Change locations.

• The camcorder is not malfunctioning.

• EDIT is set to ON in the menu system.
m Set it to OFF. (p. 26)

• The video heads may be dirty.
m Clean the heads using the Sony V8-25CLH cleaning

cassette (not supplied). (p. 53)

• If VF PW-SAVE is set to ON, the picture disappears
automatically when you turn your face away from the
viewfinder.
m Bring your face close to the viewfinder within 1/2 inch

(1 cm). Or set VF PW-SAVE to OFF. (p. 25)

• Sunlight or an incandescent lamp may prevent the
viewfinder sensor from working correctly. This is not a
malfunction.

• If 10 minutes elapse after you set the POWER switch to
CAMERA without inserting a cassette, the camcorder
automatically starts the demonstration or DEMO is set to
ON in the menu system.
m Insert the cassette and the demonstration stops. You can

make the demonstration not appear. (p. 26)

• The self-diagnosis function is activated.
m Check the code and solve the problem. (p. 60)

59

Additional Information

Trouble check

AC power adaptor

Symptom

The VTR/CAMERA or
CHARGE lamp does not light.

The CHARGE lamp flashes.

When the CHARGE lamp flashes

Check through the following chart.

When the CHARGE lamp flashes again

Install another battery pack.

When the CHARGE lamp flashes again

The problem is with the AC power
adaptor.

$

$

$

$

$

Please contact your nearest Sony dealer
in connection with the problem.

Remove the battery pack from the AC
power adaptor. Then install the same
battery pack again.

When the CHARGE lamp does not flash
again

If the CHARGE lamp lights up and goes
out after a while, there is no problem.*

When the CHARGE lamp does not flash
again

If the CHARGE lamp lights up and goes
out after a while, the problem is with the
battery pack installed first.

* 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. This does not
indicate a problem. Repeat again to charge with the same battery pack.

Corrective Actions

• Disconnect the power cord. After about 1 minute,
reconnect the power cord.

• See the following chart.

60

C:21:00

First three digits

C21

C22

C23

C31

C32

E61
E62

Cause and/or Corrective Action

• Moisture condensation has occurred.
m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least

1 hour. (p. 52)

• The video heads are dirty.
m Clean the heads using the Sony V8-25 CLH cleaning

cassette (not supplied). (p. 53)

• The camcorder does not operate when using a battery that
is not an InfoLITHIUM battery.
m Use an InfoLITHIUM battery. (p. 6)

• To prevent the camcorder from operating abnormally, the
self-diagnosis function has come on.
m Remove the cassette and insert it again, and then operate

the camcorder. (p. 10)

• To prevent the camcorder from operating abnormally, the
self-diagnosis function has come on.
m Disconnect the power cord of the AC power adaptor or

remove the battery pack. After reconnecting or
reattaching the power source, operate the camcorder.

• To prevent the camcorder from operating abnormally, the
self-diagnosis function has come on.
m When you contact your local authorized Sony service

facility, inform the service number with five digits.
(example: E:61:10)

Trouble check

Self-diagnosis function

If the self-diagnosis function is activated to prevent
the camcorder from operating abnormally, the five
digit service number (combination of an alphabet
and figures) flashes in the viewfinder or display
window. In this case, check the following table.

If a difficulty persists after checking the problem a few times, contact your local
authorized Sony service facility.

61

Additional Information

Specifications

Video camera
recorder

System

Video recording system

Four rotary heads, Helical
scanning FM system (separate
SP/LP heads)

Audio recording system

Rotary heads, FM system

Video signal

NTSC color, EIA standards

Usable cassette

8mm video format cassette
(Hi8 or standard 8)

Recording / Playback time
(using 120 min. cassette)

SP mode: 2 hours
LP mode: 4 hours

Fastforward/rewind time (using
120 min. cassette)

Approx. 5 min.

Image device

CCD (Charge Coupled Device)

Viewfinder

Electronic viewfinder (Color)

Lens

Combined power zoom lens
Filter diameter 1

7

/16 in. (37 mm)
15x (Optical)
30x (Digital)

Focal distance

3

/16 – 2 3/8 in. (4.1 – 61.5 mm)

1

7

/8 – 27 7/8 in. (47 – 705 mm)
when converted to a 35 mm still
camera

Color temperature

Auto

Minimum illumination

2 lux (F 1.4)

Illumination range

2 lux to 100,000 lux

Recommended illumination

More than 100 lux

Input and output
connectors

S video input/output

4-pin mini DIN
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75
ohms, unbalanced, sync negative
Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p,
75 ohm, unbalanced

Video input/output

Phono jack, 1 Vp-p, 75 ohm,
unbalanced, sync negative

Audio input/output

Phono jacks (2: stereo L and R)
327 mV, (at output impedance
47 kilohm) impedance less than

2.2 kilohm

RFU DC OUT

Special minijack, DC 5 V

Headphone jack

Stereo minijack

LANC control jack

Stereo mini-minijack (ø 2.5 mm)

MIC jack

Minijack, 0.388 mV low
impedance with 2.5 to 3.0 V DC,
output impedance 6.8 kilohm (ø

3.5 mm)
Stereo type

Intelligent accessory shoe

8-pin connector

LASER LINK

Video/audio: IR space
transmission system according to
EIAJ (Electric Industries
Association of Japan) standards
Audio carrier wave:
L ch 4.3 MHz
R ch 4.8 MHz

General

Power requirements

7.2 V (battery pack)

8.4 V (AC power adaptor)

Average power consumption

3.5 W during camera recording

Operating temperature

32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)

Storage temperature

–4°F to +140°F (–20°C to +60°C)

Dimensions (Approx.)

4

3

/8 x 4 1/4 x 7 1/8 in.

(108 x 107 x 178 mm) (w/h/d)

Mass (Approx.)

1 lb 11 oz (770 g) excluding the
battery pack, lithium battery,
cassette and shoulder strap
2 lb (920 g) including the battery
pack NP-F330, lithium battery
CR2025, cassette and shoulder
strap

Microphone

Stereo type

Supplied accessories

See page 5.

AC power adaptor

Power requirements

110 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz

Power consumption

25 W

Output voltage

DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.9 A in operating
mode
Battery charge terminal: 8.4 V, 1.4
A in charge mode

Application

Sony battery packs NP-F330,
NP-F530, NP-F730, NP-F930
lithium ion type

Operating temperature

32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C)

Storage temperature

–4°F to +140°F (–20°C to +60°C)

Dimensions (Approx.)

3

1

/4 x 1 13/16 x 6 1/2 in.
(81 x 45 x 163 mm) (w/h/d)
including projecting parts and
controls

Mass (Approx.)

1 lb 3 oz (560 g)

Design and specifications are
subject to change without notice.

62

Identifying the parts

1 BACKLIGHT button (p.35)
2 FADER button (p.27)
3 POWER switch (p.11)
4 NEAR/FAR dial (p.32)
5 FOCUS switch (p.32)
6 STEADY SHOT switch (p.45)
7 PICTURE EFFECT button (p.29)
8 EXPOSURE button (p.35)

9 DATE button (p.41)
!º TIME button (p.41)
!¡ COUNTER RESET button (p.13)
!™ Display window (p.69)
!£ TITLE button (p.38)
!¢ MENU button (p.24)
!∞ CONTROL dial (p.24)
!§ PROGRAM AE button (p.33)

5

1
2

7

3
4

!¢

9

!£

!º
!¡
!™

8

!§

!∞

6

63

Additional Information

Identifying the Parts

!¶ Power zoom lever (p.14)
!• EJECT switch (p.10)
!ª LANC l control jack

l stands for Local Application Control
Bus System. The l 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 jack
indicated as CONTROL L or REMOTE.

@º Cassette compartment (p.10)
@¡ RFU DC OUT (RFU adaptor DC output)

jack (p.18)

@™ Grip strap (p.16)
@£ 2 (headphones) jack (p.20)
@¢ EDITSEARCH button (p.17)
@∞ LASER LINK button (p.19)
@§ S VIDEO jack (p.18, 44)
@¶ MIC jack (PLUG IN POWER)

Connect an external microphone (not
supplied). This jack also accepts a “plug­in-power” microphone.

@• VIDEO/AUDIO jacks (p.18, 44)

!¶
!•

!ª
@º

@™

@¡

@¢

@§
@¶
@•

@∞

@£

64

Identifying the Parts

@ª Intelligent accessory shoe

The intelligent accessory shoe supplies
power to optional accessories such as a
video light.

#º Eyecup (p.16)
#¡ Viewfinder (p.12, 16)
#™ Battery mounting surface
#£ START/STOP MODE switch (p.15)

#¢ 16:9 WIDE button (p.28)
#∞ Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

(p.12)

#§ BATT (battery) PUSH button (p.8)
#¶ START/STOP button (p.11)
#• STANDBY switch (p.11)
#ª Hooks for shoulder strap (p.68)

Note on the intelligent accessory shoe

Supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light or microphone. The
intelligent accessory shoe is linked to the STANDBY switch, allowing you to turn on
and off the power supplied by the shoe. Refer to the instruction manual of the accessory
for further information. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end,
and then tighten the screw. To remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and then press
down and pull out the accessory.

@ª

#º

#∞

#ª

#§

#¶

#£

#•

#¢

#¡

#™

65

Additional Information

Identifying the parts

$º Video control buttons (p.20)

π STOP (stop)
0 REW (rewind)

· PLAY (playback)
) FF (fastforward)
P PAUSE (pause)
r REC (recording)

$¡ Camera recording/battery lamp (p.11)
$™ IR transmitter (p.19)
$£ Microphone
$¢ Remote sensor (p.68)

Aim the Remote Commander here for
remote control.

$∞ Lighting aperture (p.12)
$§ Lens cover
$¶ Lithium battery compartment (p.46)
$• Tripod receptacle (p.16)

Make sure that the length of the tripod
screw is less than 9/32 inch (6.5 mm)
otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod
securely and the screw may damage the
camcorder.

$º

$§

$∞

$¶
$•

$¡

$™
$£

$¢

66

Identifying the parts

1 Transmitter

Point toward the remote sensor to
control the camcorder after turning
on the camcorder.

2 Tape transport buttons (p.20)

Remote Commander

The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on the camcorder
function identically.

3 DISPLAY button (p.20)
4 START/STOP button (p.11)
5 Power zoom button (p.14)

To watch the demonstration

You can start the demonstration by setting DEMO MODE in the menu system.
You can also start the demonstration by the following operation.

To enter demo mode

(1) Eject the cassette and set the POWER switch to VTR.
(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) While holding down · set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

To exit demo mode

(1) Set the POWER switch to VTR.
(2) Turn STANDBY up.
(3) While holding down π set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

5

1

2

3

4

67

Additional Information

Identifying the parts

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.

To use the Remote Commander

Make sure that the COMMANDER is set to ON in the menu system on the camcorder.

To prepare the Remote Commander

Insert two size AA (R6) batteries by matching the + and – on the batteries to the
diagram inside the battery compartment.

12

3

ON

MENU

COMMANDER

OFF

MENU

COMMANDER
ORC TO SET
REC MODE

WIND

ON

TITLE COL
TITLE POS
TITLE LANG

[MENU] : END

[MENU] : END

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

SEL/PUSH EXEC

MENU

68

123

Attaching the shoulder strap

Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for the shoulder strap .

Identifying the parts

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 on the camcorder and the
Remote Commander.

• This camcorder works in 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 in commander mode VTR 2, we
recommend you change the commander mode or cover the remote sensor of the VCR
with black paper.

Remote control direction

5°

15°

20°

20°

15 1/3 ft (5 m)

69

Additional Information

Identifying the parts

Operation indicator

!£ Video control mode (p.20)
!¢ Tape counter (p.13)

Self-diagnosis indicator (p.60)

!∞ Remaining tape indicator

!§ Remaining battery indicator (p.49)

!¶ AUTO DATE indicator (p.11)
!• Date or Time indicator (p.41)
!ª ORC indicator (p.42)
@º Date or Time indicator (p.41)/

Tape counter (p.13)/
Self-diagnosis indicator (p.60)

1 WIND indicator (p.25)
2 Manual focusing (p.32)
3 PROGRAM AE indicator (p.33)
4 SteadyShot indicator (p.45)
5 Backlight indicator (p.35)
6 FADER indicator (p.27)
7 Wide mode indicator (p.28)
8 Picture effect indicator (p.29)
9 Warning indicators (p.70)
!º Exposure indicator/Zoom indicator

(p.14, 35)

!¡ Playing back or recording in Hi8

format (p.48)

!™ Recording mode indicator (p.48)

Viewfinder

Display window

12:00:00 AM

40min

00:00:00

LP

STBY

FADER
CINEMA

T

W

MOSAIC

AUTO DATE

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

!º
!¡
!™
!£
!¢
!∞

!§
!¶

!•

SP
LP

ORC

!¡
!™

!§9
!ª

AM
PM

@º

5min 0min

70

Warning indicators

If indicators flash in the viewfinder or in the display window, check the following:
≥: you can hear the beep sound when the BEEP is set to ON.

1 The battery is weak or dead.

Slow flashing: The battery is weak.
Fast flashing: The battery is dead.

2 The tape is near the end.

The flashing is slow.

3 The tape has run out.

The flashing becomes rapid.

4 No tape has been inserted.
5 The tab on the tape is out (red).
6 Moisture condensation has occurred.

(p.52)

7 The video heads may be

contaminated. (p.53)

8 Some other trouble has occurred.

Use the self-diagnosis function (p.60).
If the display does not disappear contact
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony
service facility.

9 The lithium battery is weak or is not

installed. (p.46)

123

456

78

9

JUL 4 1997

5min

0min

CLEANING
CASSETTE

Viewfinder Display window

C:31:10

C:21:00

71

Additional Information

Index

A, B

Adjusting viewfinder .............12

AFM HiFi Sound.....................26

ANTI GROUND

SHOOTING ..........................15

AUTO DATE ...........................11

Auto focus................................32

Backlight .................................. 35

Beep ......................................... 13

C, D

Camera recording ...................11

Car battery ...............................23

Charging battery ....................... 6

Cleaning video heads ............. 53

Clock set ...................................47

Connection......................... 18, 44

COUNTER RESET ..................13

DATE/TIME ...........................41

Demonstration ........................26

Digital zoom ............................14

DISPLAY .................................. 20

DNR ..........................................26

E

EDIT......................................... 26

Editing ......................................43

EDITSEARCH ......................... 17

Eject switch ..............................10

Exposure .................................. 36

F, G, H

Fade-in/Fade-out ................... 27

FADER .....................................27

House current.......................... 22

I, J, K, L

InfoLITHIUM battery ............50

LANC ....................................... 63

LASER LINK ........................... 19

Lithium battery .......................46

M, N

Manual focus ...........................31

Menu system ...........................24

MIC (microphone) jack ..........63

O, P

ORC .......................................... 42

PICTURE EFFECT ..................29

Playback pause........................21

Power sources ......................... 22

Power zoom............................. 14

PROGRAM AE........................33

Q, R

Rec review ............................... 17

Recording mode......................12

Remote control jack (LANC).63

S

Self-diagnosis function ..........60

Shoulder strap .........................68

Skip scan .................................. 21

Standby mode ......................... 12

START/STOP mode...............15

STEADY SHOT .......................45

T, U, V

Tape counter ............................ 13

TBC ........................................... 26

Title ...........................................37

Tripod mounting .................... 16

Trouble check ..........................56

W, X, Y, Z

WIDE mode .............................28

WIND ....................................... 25

Zoom ........................................14

Sony Corporation Printed in Japan