SONY CYBER-SHOT DSC-P73 User Manual

Digital Still Camera

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. DSC-P73/P93A

Serial No.

DSC-P73/P93A

2-189-207-11(1)

Getting started________________________

Shooting still images __________________

Viewing still images ___________________

Deleting still images __________________

Before advanced operations _____________

Advanced still image shooting ___________

Advanced still image viewing ____________

Still image editing ______________________

Still image printing _____________________

(PictBridge printer)

Enjoying movies _______________________

Enjoying images on your computer ______

Troubleshooting _______________________

Additional information___________________

Index _____________________________

WARNING

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

For the Customers in the U.S.A.

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.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call:

Sony Customer Information Services Center 1-800-222-SONY (7669)

The number below is for the FCC related matters only.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name:	SONY
Model No.:	DSC-P93A
Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc.
Address:	16450 W. Bernardo Dr,
	San Diego, CA 92127
	U.S.A.
Telephone No.:	858-942-2230

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name:	SONY
Model No.:	DSC-P73
Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc.
Address:	16450 W. Bernardo Dr,
	San Diego, CA 92127
	U.S.A.
Telephone No.:	858-942-2230

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.

The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

For the Customers in the U.S.A.

and Canada

RECYCLING NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE BATTERIES

Nickel Metal Hydride batteries are recyclable.

You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to

the collection and recycling location nearest you.

For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-822-8837, or

visit http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Nickel Metal Hydride batteries.

Notice for the customers in the United Kingdom

A moulded plug complying with BS 1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience.

Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the supplied one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS 1362, (i.e., marked with or mark) must be used.

If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

For the Customers in Europe

This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits sets out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

Attention

The electromagnetic fields at the specific frequencies may influence the picture and sound of this digital camera.

Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the USB cable again.

Certain countries or regions may regulate disposal of the battery used to power this product. Please consult with your local authority.

“Memory Stick”

N50

For the Customers in the U.S.A.

and Canada

THIS CLASS B DIGITAL DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES AND THE CANADIAN ICES-003 OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS:

(1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

Read this first

Trial recording

Before you record one-time events, you may want to make a trial recording to make sure that the camera is working correctly.

No compensation for contents of the recording

Contents of the recording cannot be compensated for if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of your camera or recording medium, etc.

Back up recommendation

To avoid the potential risk of data loss, always copy (back up) data to a disk.

Notes on image data compatibility

•This camera conforms with the Design rule for Camera File system universal standard established by the JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).

•Playback of images recorded with your camera on other equipment and playback of images recorded or edited with other equipment on your camera are not guaranteed.

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.

Do not shake or strike the camera

In addition to malfunctions and inability to record images, this may render the “Memory Stick” unusable or image data breakdown, damage or loss may occur.

LCD screen, LCD finder (only models with an LCD finder) and lens

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

•Be careful when placing the camera near a window or outdoors. Exposing the LCD screen, the finder or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods may cause malfunctions.

•Do not press the LCD screen hardly. The screen may be uneven and that may cause a malfunction.

•Images may be trailed on the LCD screen in a cold location. This is not a malfunction.

Remove dirt from the surface of the flash

If the dirt changes color or sticks to the surface of the flash due to the heat of the flash, sufficient light may not be emitted.

The power zoom lens

This camera is equipped with power zoom lens. Be careful not to bump the lens, and be careful not to apply force to it.

Do not get the camera wet

When taking pictures outdoors in the rain or under similar conditions, be careful not to get the camera wet. If water gets inside of the camera, it may cause the camera to malfunction, sometimes beyond repair. If moisture condensation occurs, see page 118 and follow the instructions on how to remove it before using the camera.

Do not expose the camera to sand or dust

Using the camera in sandy or dusty locations may cause a malfunction.

Do not aim the camera at the sun or other bright light

This may cause irrecoverable damage to your eyes or the malfunction of your camera.

Note on locations where you can use the camera

Do not use the camera near a location that generates strong radio waves or emits radiation. The camera may not be able to record or play back properly.

The pictures used in this manual

The photographs used as examples of pictures in this manual are reproduced images, and are not actual images shot using this camera.

Trademarks

• is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

•“Memory Stick,” , “Memory Stick PRO,” , “Memory Stick Duo,” , “Memory Stick

PRO Duo,” , “MagicGate,” are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

•Picture Package is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

•Microsoft, Windows, Windows Media, and DirectX are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

•Macintosh, Mac OS, QuickTime, iMac, iBook, PowerBook, Power Mac and eMac are trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.

•Macromedia and Flash are trademarks or registered trademarks of Macromedia, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.

•Intel, MMX, and Pentium are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.

•In addition, system and product names used in this manual are, in general, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective

developers or manufacturers. However, the ™ or ® marks are not used in all cases in this manual.

Read this first ............................................	4
Identifying the parts ..................................	8
Mode dial............................................	10
Getting started
Preparing batteries ..................................	11
Charging the batteries .............................	11
Inserting the batteries..............................	13
Using the AC Adaptor ............................	16
Using your camera abroad ......................	17
Turning your camera on/off ....................	17
How to use the control button.................	18
Setting the date and time.........................	18
Shooting still images
Inserting and removing a “Memory Stick”
........................................................	21
Setting the still image size ......................	22
Image size and quality ............................	23
Basic still image shooting
– Using auto mode..........................	25
Checking the last image shot
– Quick Review ..............................	27
Using the zoom feature.......................	27
Shooting close-ups – Macro ...............	29
Using the self-timer ............................	30
Selecting a flash mode........................	31
Shooting images with the finder .........	33

Inserting the date and time on a still
image..............................................	34
Shooting according to scene conditions
........................................................	35
Viewing still images
Viewing images on the LCD screen of your
camera ............................................	38
Viewing images on a TV screen.............	40
Deleting still images
Deleting images ......................................	42
Formatting a “Memory Stick” ................	44
Before advanced operations
How to setup and operate your camera
........................................................	46
Changing menu settings .....................	46
Changing items in the SET UP screen
........................................................	47
Deciding the still image quality..............	47
Creating or selecting a folder .................	48
Creating a new folder .........................	48
Selecting the recording folder ............	48

Advanced still image
shooting
Choosing an auto focus method ..............	49
Choosing a focus range finder frame
– AF range finder............................	49
Choosing a focus operation
– AF Mode......................................	50
Setting the distance to the subject
– Focus preset .................................	51
Shooting with manual shutter speed and
aperture settings
– Manual Exposure.........................	52
Adjusting the exposure
– EV adjustment .............................	55
Displaying a histogram .......................	56
Selecting the metering mode...................	57
Adjusting color tones – White Balance...	58
Adjusting the flash level – Flash Level...	59
Shooting images in succession................	60
Shooting in Multi Burst mode
– Multi Burst...................................	61
Shooting with special effects
– Picture Effect ...............................	62
Advanced still image viewing
Selecting the folder and playing back
images – Folder ..............................	63

Enlarging a portion of a still image
– Playback zoom.............................	64
Playing back successive images
– Slide show....................................	65
Rotating still images – Rotate .................	66
Playing back images shot in Multi Burst
mode ...............................................	66
Playing back continuously ..................	67
Playing back frame by frame ..............	67
Still image editing
Protecting images – Protect.....................	68
Changing image size – Resize.................	69
Choosing images to print
– Print (DPOF) mark ......................	70
Still image printing
(PictBridge printer)
Connecting to a PictBridge compliant
printer..............................................	72
Printing images........................................	73
Printing index-images .............................	75
Enjoying movies
Shooting movies......................................	79
Viewing movies on the LCD screen .......	80
Deleting movies ......................................	81
Cutting movies ........................................	82

Enjoying images on your
computer
Copying images to your computer
– For Windows users......................	84
Installing the USB driver....................	85
Connecting the camera to your computer
........................................................	86
Copying images ..................................	87
Viewing the images on your computer
........................................................	89
Image file storage destinations and file
names..............................................	90
Viewing an image previously copied to a
computer.........................................	92
Installing “Picture Package”...............	92
Copying images using “Picture Package”
........................................................	94
Using “Picture Package” ....................	95
Copying images to your computer
– For Macintosh users ....................	96
Using “ImageMixer VCD2”...............	97
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ......................................	99
Warnings and messages ........................	108
Self-diagnosis display – If a code starting
with an alphabet letter appears .....	110

Additional information
The number of images that can be saved/
shooting time.................................	111
Menu items ............................................	112
SET UP items ........................................	116
Precautions ............................................	118
The “Memory Stick” .............................	119
The nickel-metal hydride batteries ........	120
The battery charger................................	121
Specifications ........................................	121
The LCD screen ....................................	124
Index
Index......................................................	128

Identifying the parts

See the pages in parentheses for details of operation.

Removing Attaching

A POWER button (17) B POWER lamp (17) C Shutter button (25) D Mode dial (10)

E Flash (31)

F Self-timer lamp (30)/ AF illuminator (32, 116)

G Speaker (bottom surface) H Finder window

I Lens ring J Lens

8 K Microphone

LTripod receptacle (bottom surface)

•The lens ring is removable so that you can attach an adaptor ring (not supplied).

•Use a tripod with a screw length of less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch). You will be unable to firmly secure the camera to tripods having longer

screws, and may damage the camera.

A Control button

Menu on: v/V/b/B/z (18) Menu off: //7/ (31/30/27/ 29)

Mode dial “M”: Shutter speed/ aperture value (52)

B Finder (33)

Self-timer/recording lamp (red) (30/26)

AE/AF lock lamp (green) (26)

(Flash charge) lamp (orange) (31)

C LCD screen

For details on the items on the LCD screen, see pages 124 to 127.

D (LCD status/LCD on/off) button (33)

E MENU button (46, 112)

F RESET button (99)

G DC IN jack (16)

H (USB) jack (86)

I A/V OUT (MONO) jack (40)

J	(Image Size/Delete)

button (22, 42)

K Zoom (W/T) buttons (27)/ (Index) button (39)/

/ (Playback zoom) buttons

(64)

L Access lamp (21) M OPEN button (13)

NBattery/“Memory Stick” cover

(13)

O Battery insertion slot (13)

P“Memory Stick” insertion slot

(21)

Q Jack cover (16)

RHook for wrist strap (bottom surface)

Attaching the wrist strap.

Mode dial

Before using your camera, set the mark on the mode dial to the POWER button side.

(Auto adjustment mode)

The focus, exposure and white balance are automatically adjusted to allow easy shooting. The image quality is set to [Fine] (page 47).

P (Program auto shooting)

Shooting adjustment is automatically carried out just as in the auto adjustment mode. However, you can intentionally adjust the focus, etc. In addition, you can set the desired functions using the menu (pages 46 and 112).

M (Manual exposure shooting)

You can manually adjust the shutter speed and the aperture value (page 52). In addition, you can set the desired shooting functions using menus (pages 46 and 112).

(Twilight)

(Twilight portrait)

(Candle)

(Landscape)

(Beach)

(Soft snap)

You can easily shoot an effective photo based on the scene conditions in the scene (page 35). In addition, you can set the desired shooting functions using menus (pages 46 and 114).

SET UP (Set up)

You can change the settings of the camera (pages 47 and 116).

(Movie shooting)

You can shoot movies (page 79).

(Playback/Editing)

You can play back or edit still images or movies (pages 38 and 68).

Preparing batteries

Use the following batteries in this camera.

Acceptable batteries

HR 15/51:HR6 (size AA) Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries (2)

–NH-AA-DA (2) (supplied)

–NH-AA-2DA twin-pack, etc. (not supplied)

R6 (size AA) alkaline batteries (2)

Batteries that cannot be used

Manganese batteries Lithium batteries Ni-cad batteries

If you use the batteries described above, we cannot guarantee full performance of the camera by property of the batteries, such as brownout of the batteries.

Notes on alkaline batteries

•Alkaline batteries have a shorter life compared to the supplied Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries. The power may shut off even if the battery remaining indicator shows sufficient battery life remaining.

•There is a big difference in the performance of batteries of different types and of batteries made by different manufacturers. This is especially true in low temperatures, where some batteries are noticeably weaker.

You may not be able to shoot in temperatures below 5°C (41°F).

•Do not mix new and old batteries.

•The battery remaining indicator does not display the correct information.

•There is a big difference between available shooting time and available playback time. Due to the characteristics of alkaline batteries, the camera may shut off with the lens portion extended if you change the position of the mode dial. In this case, replace the batteries with new ones or fully charged Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries.

It is recommend that you use the supplied Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries.

Getting started

Charging the batteries

started Getting

,Insert Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries into the battery charger (supplied) with the correct polarity +/–.

•You cannot charge alkaline batteries using the battery charger.

•Be sure to charge the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries supplied with your camera before using them.

•Connect the battery charger to an easily accessible wall outlet (wall socket) close by.

•Even if the CHARGE lamp is not lit, the set is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket). If some trouble occurs while using the battery charger, immediately shut off the power by disconnecting the plug from the wall outlet (wall socket).

CHARGE lamp	to a wall outlet
	(wall socket)

2	Power cord
	(Mains lead)

,Connect the battery charger to a wall outlet (wall socket) using the power cord (mains lead).

Charging starts, and the CHARGE lamp lights. When the CHARGE lamp goes out, charging is finished.

For details on the battery charger, see page 121.

To remove the batteries

Press the - end of the battery down in order to raise the + end, then remove the battery.

•When charging is finished, disconnect the power cord (mains lead) from the wall outlet (wall socket), and remove the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries from the battery charger.

Charging time

Nickel-Metal Hydride	Charging time
battery

NH-AA-DA × 2	Approx. 6 hours
(supplied)

This represents the time required to charge fully depleted Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries using the supplied battery charger in an environment where the ambient temperature is 25°C (77°F).

•Charging is complete in approximately six hours. The CHARGE lamp may remain lit longer than six hours, but this is not a malfunction.

•If you use the battery charger supplied with the STAMINA “Quick charge” kit (not supplied), the batteries will charge faster.

Charging time

When charging two Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes When charging four Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries: Approximately 5 hours

Notes on the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries

•At the time of purchase, or when the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries have not been used for a long time, they may not be fully charged. This is typical of this type of battery, and is not a malfunction. If this happens, repeatedly using up the battery fully, and then recharging it, should correct the problem.

•If the poles of the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries are dirty, the batteries may not be charged properly. Occasionally clean the poles of the batteries and the terminals of the charger by wiping them with a dry cloth.

•When transporting the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries, be sure to use the battery case (supplied). If the +/- metal terminals are shorted, there is a possibility of danger from excessive heat or fire.

•Even when Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries are not being used they lose their charge naturally over time. It is recommended that you recharge the batteries just before using them.

•If you recharge Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries before fully using up the existing charge, the so-called memory effect* can occur, and the low battery warning will be triggered sooner than expected. Charging the battery after fully depleting the existing charge should correct the problem.

*The “memory effect” – the situation in which a battery temporarily accepts a less than full charge.

•To use up the batteries completely, put the camera in the slide show mode (page 65) and leave it that way until the batteries are used up.

•Do not peel off the external seals or damage the batteries. Never use batteries from which the seals have been partially or completely removed, or batteries that have been split in any way. These may cause leakage, explosion, or heat-up of the battery, and personal scald or injury may be caused. These may cause a malfunction of the battery charger.

Inserting the batteries

,Open the battery/“Memory Stick” cover.

Turn up the battery/“Memory Stick” cover, and slide the cover in the direction of the arrow.

started Getting

,Insert the batteries.

Match the +/- poles of the batteries to the +/ - marks inside the battery case.

•Occasionally clean the poles of the batteries and the terminals of the battery/“Memory Stick” cover by wiping them with a dry cloth. If the poles of the batteries or the terminals become covered with a film of dirt or oil from the skin, the operating time of the camera can be greatly reduced.

,Close the battery/“Memory Stick” cover.

Close the battery/“Memory Stick” cover while holding the batteries in. The cover is closed when it clicks.

To remove the batteries

Turn up the battery/“Memory Stick” cover, open the battery/“Memory Stick” cover, then remove the batteries.

•Make sure you do not drop the batteries when opening or closing the battery/“Memory Stick” cover.

Battery remaining indicator (When using the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries)

As the battery power decreases with use, the battery remaining indicator displays the amount of power remaining using the following symbols.

Battery					Battery remaining
remaining					guidelines
indicator					(A full charge is 100%)

					Sufficient power remaining

					Battery half full

					Battery low, recording/
					playback will stop soon.

					Change the batteries for fully
					Change the batteries for fully
					charged ones, or charge these
					batteries. (The warning
					indicator flashes.)
					indicator flashes.)

•If the LCD screen is off, press to turn it on.

•Based on the conditions under which the camera is being used and the state of the charge, or on the environment, this information may not be correctly indicated.

•When using alkaline batteries, the correct battery remaining time is not indicated. There is a big difference in the performance of batteries of different types and of batteries made by different manufacturers, the power may shut off even if the battery remaining indicator shows sufficient battery life remaining. In this case, replace the batteries with new ones or fully charged Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries.

•When the AC Adaptor (not supplied) is being used, the remaining battery information is not displayed.

Number of images and battery life that can be recorded/ viewed

The tables show the approximate number of images and the battery life that can be recorded/ viewed when you shoot images in normal mode with fully charged batteries at a temperature of 25°C (77°F). The numbers of images that can be recorded or viewed take into account changing the supplied “Memory Stick” as necessary. Note that the actual numbers may be less than indicated depending on the conditions of use.

•The battery capacity decreases little by little as you use it more and more, and as time passes (page 120).

Shooting still images

Under the average conditions1)

	NH-AA-DA (2) (supplied)
Image	LCD	No. of	Battery
size	screen	images	life (min.)
DSC-P93A

5M	On	Approx. 410	Approx. 205

	Off	Approx. 740	Approx. 370
	Off	Approx. 740	Approx. 370

VGA	On	Approx. 410	Approx. 205
(E-Mail)	Off	Approx. 740	Approx. 370

DSC-P73
4M	On	Approx. 420	Approx. 210

	Off	Approx. 760	Approx. 380
	Off	Approx. 760	Approx. 380

VGA	On	Approx. 420	Approx. 210
(E-Mail)	Off	Approx. 760	Approx. 380

R6 (Size AA) alkaline battery

(2) (not supplied)

Image	LCD	No. of	Battery
size	screen	images	life (min.)
DSC-P93A
5M	On	Approx. 80	Approx. 40

	Off	Approx. 180	Approx. 90
	Off	Approx. 180	Approx. 90

VGA	On	Approx. 80	Approx. 40
(E-Mail)	Off	Approx. 180	Approx. 90

DSC-P73

4M	On	Approx. 110	Approx. 55
4M	Off	Approx. 240	Approx. 120
	Off	Approx. 240	Approx. 120

VGA	On	Approx. 110	Approx. 55
(E-Mail)	Off	Approx. 240	Approx. 120

When using Sony alkaline batteries

1)Shooting in the following situations:

–The image quality is set to [Fine]

–[AF Mode] is set to [Single]

–Shooting one time every 30 seconds

–The zoom is switched alternately between the W and T ends

–The flash strobes once every two times

–The power turns on and off once every ten

times

The measurement method is based on CIPA standard. (CIPA: Camera & Imaging Products Association)

Viewing still images2)

	NH-AA-DA (2) (supplied)

Image size	No. of	Battery life
Image size	images	(min.)

DSC-P93A

5M	Approx. 9200	Approx. 460

VGA (E-Mail)	Approx. 9200	Approx. 460

DSC-P73

4M	Approx. 9800	Approx. 490

VGA (E-Mail)	Approx. 9800	Approx. 490

2)Viewing single images in order at about three second intervals

Shooting movies3)

	NH-AA-DA (2)
	(supplied)

	LCD	LCD
	screen On	screen Off

DSC-P93A	Approx. 210	Approx. 270

DSC-P73	Approx. 210	Approx. 270

3) Shooting continuously at [160] image size

started Getting

•The number of images and the battery life that can be recorded/viewed are decreased under the following conditions:

–The surrounding temperature is low

–The flash is used

–The camera has been turned on and off many times

–The zoom is used frequently

–[LCD Backlight] is set to [Bright] in the SET UP settings

–[AF Mode] is set to [Monitor]

–The battery power is low.

Using the AC Adaptor

AC Adaptor (not supplied)

DC plug

Jack cover

,Open the jack cover, then connect the AC-LS5 AC Adaptor (not supplied) to the DC IN jack of the camera.

Connect the plug with the v mark facing up.

•Be sure to use the AC-LS5 AC Adaptor. Other AC adaptors cannot be used with this camera.

•Connect the AC Adaptor to an easily accessible wall outlet (wall socket) close by. If some trouble occurs while using the adaptor, immediately shut off the power by disconnecting the plug from the wall outlet (wall socket).

2 To a wall outlet

(wall socket)

Power cord 2 (mains lead)

,Connect the power cord (mains lead) to the AC Adaptor and to a wall outlet (wall socket).

•When you have finished using the AC Adaptor, disconnect it from the DC IN jack of the camera and the wall outlet (wall socket).

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

Using your camera abroad

Power sources

You can use your camera in any country or region with the battery charger (supplied) or the AC-LS5 AC Adaptor (not supplied) within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet (wall socket) [b].

BC-CS2A/CS2B

•Do not use an electrical transformer (travel converter), as this may cause a malfunction.

Turning your camera on/off

POWER

POWER lamp

,Press POWER to turn on the power.

The POWER lamp lights in green and the power is on. When you turn on the camera for the first time, the Clock Set screen appears (page 18).

To turn off the power

Press POWER again, the POWER lamp goes out, and the camera turns off.

•When you turn the power on with the mode dial

not set to SET UP or , the lens begins to move. Please be careful not to touch the lens.

•Do not leave the camera with the lens portion pulled out by removing the batteries or AC Adaptor (not supplied), etc., for a long time. This may cause a malfunction.

The Auto Power Off function

If no tasks are performed for about three minutes when shooting, viewing images, or setting up the camera while using the batteries, power is automatically shut off to preserve battery power.

However, in the following circumstances, even if the batteries are being used to power the camera, the Auto Power Off function will not work.

•Movies are being played back

•A slide show is being shown

•A cable is connected to the (USB) jack or the A/V OUT (MONO) jack

started Getting

How to use the control button

Camera
AF Mode:	Single
Digital Zoom:	Smart
Date/Time:	Off
Red Eye Reduction:	Off
AF Illuminator:	Auto
Auto Review:	Off
SELECT

Setup 2

	File Number:
	USB Connect:
	Video Out:		OK
	Clock Set:		Cancel

To change the current settings of the camera, bring up the menu or the SET UP screen (pages 46, 47), and use the control button to make the changes.

When setting up the menu, press v/V/b/B to select the item or the setting and make the setting.

When setting up the SET UP, press v/V/b/ B to select the item or the setting and press z to make the setting.

Setting the date and time

Mode dial

,Set the mode dial to.

•To set the time and the date again, set

the mode dial to SET UP, select

[Clock Set] in (Setup 2) (pages 47, 117), then proceed from Step 3.

•You can carry out this operation even when the

mode dial is set to P, M, ,										, ,	,
			,	,				or	.

Clock Set

Y/M/D

M/D/Y

D/M/Y

2004 / 1 / 1 12 : 00 OK

Cancel

,Press POWER to turn on the power.

The POWER lamp lights in green and the Clock Set screen appears on the LCD screen.

Clock Set
				Y/M/D
				M/D/Y
				D/M/Y
2004 /	1 /	1	12 : 00	OK
			AM
				Cancel

,Select the desired date format with v/V on the control button, then press z.

You can select from [Y/M/D] (year/month/ day), [M/D/Y], and [D/M/Y].

•If the rechargeable button battery, which provides the power for saving the time data, is ever fully discharged (page 119), the Clock Set

screen will appear again. When this happens, reset the date and time by starting from Step 3

above.

Clock Set
				Y/M/D
				M/D/Y
				D/M/Y
2004 /	1 /	1	12 : 00	OK
			AM
				Cancel

,Select the year, month, day, hour, or minute item you want to set with b/B on the control button.

v is shown above and V is shown below the selected item.

Clock Set					Getting
Clock Set
2005 /	1 /	1	10 : 00	Y/M/D	started
2005 /	1 /	1	10 : 00	OK	started
				M/D/Y
				D/M/Y
			AM
				Cancel

,Set the desired numerical value with v/V on the control button, then press z.

After setting the current numerical value, set the next item. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 until all of the items have been set.

•If you select [D/M/Y] in Step 3, set the time on a 24-hour cycle.

•12:00 AM stands for midnight and 12:00 PM stands for noon.

Clock Set

Y/M/D

M/D/Y

D/M/Y

2005	/	1	/	1	10	:	30	OK
							AM
								Cancel

,Select [OK] with B on the control button, then press z.

The date and time are set and the clock will start to keep time.

•To cancel the setting process, select [Cancel], then press z.

Shooting still images

Inserting and removing a “Memory Stick”

,Open the battery/“Memory Stick” cover.

Turn up the battery/“Memory Stick” cover, and slide the cover in the direction of the arrow.

•Be careful not to drop the batteries when opening or closing the battery/“Memory Stick” cover.

•For details on “Memory Stick,” see page 119.

Terminal side

Label side

,Insert the “Memory Stick.”

Insert the “Memory Stick” all the way in until it clicks as shown in the illustration.

•Whenever you insert a “Memory Stick,” push it as far as it can go. If you do not insert it correctly, a proper recording or playback may not be carried out.

Access lamp

,Close the battery/“Memory Stick” cover.

To remove the “Memory Stick”

Open the battery/“Memory Stick” cover, then push the “Memory Stick” to pop it out.

•Whenever the access lamp is lit, the camera is recording or reading out an image. Never open the battery/“Memory Stick” cover or turn off the power at this time. The data may be corrupted.

images still Shooting

Setting the still image size

Mode dial

,Set the mode dial to and turn on the power.

• You can carry out this operation even when the

mode dial is set to P, M, ,		, ,	,
or	.

DSC-P93A		DSC-P73
5M	5M	4M	4M
3:2		3:2
3M		3M
1M		1M
VGA(E-Mail)		VGA(E-Mail)
Image Size		Image Size

,Press (Image Size).

The Image Size setup item appears.

•For more information about the image size, see page 23.

DSC-P93A DSC-P73

3:2

VGA(E-Mail)

Image Size

3:2

VGA	VGA(E-Mail) VGA
	Image Size

,Select the desired image size with v/V on the control button.

The image size is set.

After the setting is completed, press (Image Size). The Image Size setup item disappears from the LCD screen.

•This setting is maintained even when the power is turned off.

Image size and quality

You can choose image size (number of pixels) and image quality (compression ratio) based on the kind of images you want to shoot. The image size is shown by the number of pixels (dots) (horizontal × vertical), which compose an image. For example, a 5M (2592×1944) size image indicates that there are 2592 pixels horizontally 1944 vertically. The larger the number of pixels, the larger the image size. You can select an image quality level from Fine (high quality) or Standard.

Each has a different compression ratio. When you select Fine and make the image size larger, you get better quality. However, the amount of data needed to preserve your image is larger and the number of images recordable in the “Memory Stick” is fewer. Choose an image size and quality level appropriate to the kind of images you want to shoot by checking the table below.

1)The default setting is [5M] (DSC-P93A) or [4M] (DSC-P73). This size can give the highest image quality using each camera.

2)This option records images in a horizontal to vertical proportion of 3:2 to match the size of the print paper used.

Short description of the image size

The following illustration shows a brief image using the maximum image size and the minimum one.

				[a]:Display size: 5M
2592			[a]	[a]:Display size: 5M
2592				Image size: 5M
				Image size: 5M
				2592 pixels × 1944 pixels = 5038848 pixels
2304			[b]	2592 pixels × 1944 pixels = 5038848 pixels
	1728	1944	[b]	[b]:Display size: 4M
480	1728	1944
640				Image size: 4M
				2304 pixels × 1728 pixels = 3981312 pixels
			[c]	[c]:Display size: VGA (E-Mail)
				Image size: VGA
				Image size: VGA
				640 pixels × 480 pixels = 307200 pixels

Examples based on the image size and image quality

Image size		Examples
5M 1) (2592×1944)	Larger	• For printing A4 size or fine A5 size images.
(DSC-P93A)

3:2 2) (2592×1728)
3:2 2) (2592×1728)
(DSC-P93A)
		• For printing A4 size or fine A5 size images.
4M 1) (2304×1728)		• For printing A4 size or fine A5 size images.
(DSC-P73)

3:2 2) (2304×1536)
(DSC-P73)

3M (2048×1536)
		• For printing postcard size images.
1M (1280×960)		• For printing postcard size images.
		• For shooting a lot of images, attaching images to e-mail, or
VGA (E-Mail)
VGA (E-Mail)
(640×480)		posting images to your home page.
	Smaller

images still Shooting

Image quality		Examples
(Compression ratio)

Fine	Low compression	• To shoot or print with better quality.
	(looks better)
		• To shoot more images.
Standard	High compression	• To shoot more images.
	High compression
	(normal)

The number of images that can be saved in a “Memory Stick”3)

The number of images that can be saved in Fine (Standard)4) mode are shown below. (Units: number of images)

Capacity
Image	16MB		32MB		64MB		128MB	MSX-256	MSX-512		MSX-1G
size

5M (DSC-	6	(11)	12	(23)	25	(48)	51 (96)	92 (174)	188	(354)	384	(723)
P93A)	6	(11)	12	(23)	25	(48)	51 (96)	92 (174)	188	(354)	384	(723)
P93A)

3:2 (DSC-	6	(11)	12	(23)	25	(48)	51 (96)	92 (174)	188	(354)	384	(723)
P93A)	6	(11)	12	(23)	25	(48)	51 (96)	92 (174)	188	(354)	384	(723)
P93A)

4M (DSC-	8	(14)	16	(30)	32	(60)	65 (121)	119 (216)	242	(440)	494	(898)
P73)	8	(14)	16	(30)	32	(60)	65 (121)	119 (216)	242	(440)	494	(898)
P73)

3:2 (DSC-	8	(14)	16	(30)	32	(60)	65 (121)	119 (216)	242	(440)	494	(898)
P73)	8	(14)	16	(30)	32	(60)	65 (121)	119 (216)	242	(440)	494	(898)
P73)

3M	10 (18)		20	(37)	41	(74)	82 (149)	148 (264)	302	(537)	617 (1097)

1M	24 (46)		50	(93)	101	(187)	202 (376)	357 (649)	726 (1320)		1482	(2694)

VGA (E-	97	(243)	196	(491)	394	(985)	790 (1975)	1428 (3571)	2904	(7261)	5928
Mail)	97	(243)	196	(491)	394	(985)	790 (1975)	1428 (3571)	2904	(7261)	(14821)
Mail)											(14821)

3)When [Mode] (REC Mode) is set to [Normal]

For the number of images that can be saved in other modes, see page 111.

4)For more information about the image quality (compression ratio) setup, see page 47.

•When the images recorded using other Sony devices are played back, the image size indication may be different from the actual image size.

•When the images are viewed on the LCD screen of the camera, they all look the same size.

•Number of shooting images can differ from these values according to shooting conditions.

•When the remaining number of images recordable is more than 9999, “>9999” is indicated.

•You can resize the images later (Resize function, see page 69).

Basic still image shooting – Using auto mode

Holding the camera correctly

Mode dial

When shooting pictures with the camera, be careful so that your fingers do not block the lens portion, finder window, flash emitter, or AF illuminator (pages 8, 9).

,Set the mode dial to , and turn on the camera.

•The lens cover opens when the power is turned on.

•Do not touch the lens portion while it is operating, such as when you press POWER to turn on the power or when the zoom function is working (page 27).

•You can create a new folder in the “Memory Stick” and select the folder for storing images (page 48).

,Hold the camera steadily with both hands and position a subject in the center of the focus frame.

•The minimum focal distance to a subject is as

follows:

DSC-P93A: Approx 50 cm (19 3/4 inches) (W)/ 60 cm (23 5/8 inches) (T).

DSC-P73: Approx 50 cm (19 3/4 inches)

To shoot subjects at distances closer than this, use the macro mode (page 29).

•The frame indicated on the LCD screen shows the focus adjustment range. (AF range finder, see page 49.)

images still Shooting

VGA FINE 101

	SAF 250 F2.0
	AE/AF lock indicator
3	Flashes in green t
	Remains on

,Press and hold the shutter button halfway down.

When the focus is achieved, the camera beeps. When the AE/AF lock indicator stops flashing and remains on, the camera is ready for shooting. (The LCD screen may be frozen for a split second depending on the subject.)

•If you release your finger from the shutter button, shooting will be canceled.

•When the camera does not beep, the AF adjustment is not complete. You can continue to shoot, but the focus is not set properly.

VGA 101

SAF

,Press the shutter button fully down.

The shutter clicks, the shooting is completed, and the still image is saved in the “Memory Stick.” When the recording lamp (page 9) goes out, you can shoot the next image.

•When you are shooting with the batteries, if no tasks are performed for a while with the camera turned on, power is automatically shut off to preserve battery power (page 17).

About Auto Focus

When you try to shoot a subject that is hard to focus on, the AE/AF lock indicator will change to flashing slowly and the AE lock beep does not sound.

The Auto Focus function may be difficult to use with in the following subjects. In such cases, release the shutter button, then try to recompose the shot and focus again.

•The subject is distant from the camera and dark

•The contrast between the subject and its background is poor

•The subject is seen through glass, such as a window

•A fast-moving subject

•The subject has a reflection, such as that from a mirror, or there is a luminous body and a lustrous subject

•A flashing subject

•A backlit subject.

There are two Auto Focus functions: “AF range finder frame” which sets the focus position according to the subject position and size, and “AF mode” which sets when the camera starts and stops focusing on. See page 49 for details.

Checking the last image shot – Quick Review

VGA

101 8/8

Review

101-0008 2005 1 1 10:30PM

RETURN

,Press b (7) on the control button.

To return to shooting mode, press the shutter button lightly or press b (7) on the control button again.

To delete the image displayed on the LCD screen

1Press (Delete).

2Select [Delete] with v on the control button, then press z.

The image is deleted.

•The image may appear rough right after playback starts due to the image processing.

Using the zoom feature

W (wide-angle) T (telephoto)

	VGA 101		VGA 101
	98		98
x1.1		S x5.0

,Press the zoom buttons to choose the desired zoom position, and shoot your image.

The minimum focal distance to the subject

DSC-P93A: Approx 50 cm (19 3/4 inches) (W)/60 cm (23 5/8 inches) (T) from the lens surface

DSC-P73: Approx 50 cm (19 3/4 inches) (W/T) from the lens surface

•The lens moves when the zoom feature is being used. Be very careful not to touch the lens.

•You cannot change the zoom scaling while shooting movies (page 79).

Zoom

Your camera is equipped with zoom functions that enlarge the image using optical zoom and two types of digital processing. Digital zoom can be selected from smart zoom or precision digital zoom. When digital zoom is set, the zoom method switches from optical zoom to digital zoom when the zoom scale exceeds 3×.

To use only the optical zoom, set [Digital Zoom] to [Off] in the SET UP settings (page 116). In this case, the digital zoom area does not appear in the zoom scale display bar on the LCD screen, and the maximum zoom is 3×.

The enlargement method and the zoom scale differ according to the image size and the zoom type, so select the zoom to match the shooting purpose.

When you press the zoom button, the zoom scaling indicator appears on the LCD screen as follows.

images still Shooting

The W side of this line is optical zoom area, and the T side is digital zoom area

Zoom scaling indicator

•The zoom scaling indicator differs according to the zoom type.

Optical zoom: Smart zoom:

Precision digital zoom:

•The AF range finder frame does not appear

when using the digital zoom. The or indicator flashes, and AF operates with priority

on subjects located near the center.

Smart zoom

Optical zoom

Smart zoom

The image is enlarged with almost no distortion. This lets you use smart zoom with the same feeling as optical zoom. To

set smart zoom, set [Digital Zoom] to [Smart] in the SET UP settings (page 116). The default setting is smart zoom.

The maximum zoom scale depends on the selected image size as follows.

DSC-P93A

Image size	Maximum zoom scale

3M	3.8×

1M	6.1×

VGA (E-Mail)	12×

Smart zoom cannot be used when the image size is set to [5M] or [3:2]. The default setting of the image size is [5M].

DSC-P73

Image size	Maximum zoom scale

3M	3.4×

1M	5.4×

VGA (E-Mail)	10×

Smart zoom cannot be used when the image size is set to [4M] or [3:2]. The default setting of the image size is [4M].

•When using the smart zoom, the image on the LCD screen may look rough. However, this has no effect on the recorded image.

•You cannot use the smart zoom in the Multi Burst mode.

Precision digital zoom

Optical zoom	Precision digital
	zoom

All image sizes are enlarged up to a maximum 6×. This function cuts out and enlarges a certain portion of the image, so the image quality deteriorates. To set precision digital zoom, set [Digital Zoom] to [Precision] in the SET UP settings (page 116).

Shooting close-ups – Macro

For close-ups of subjects like flowers or insects, shoot using the macro feature. You can shoot subjects approaching up to 10 cm (4 inches) when the zoom is set to its W- end. However, the available focus distance depends on the zoom position. We recommend that you set the zoom to its W- end during shooting.

When the zoom is set all the way to the W side:

Approx. 10 cm (4 inches) from the end of the lens

When the zoom is set all the way to the T side:

DSC-P93A: Approx. 60 cm (23 5/8 inches) from the end of the lens

DSC-P73: Approx. 50 cm (19 3/4 inches) from the end of the lens

VGA

101

SAF

,Set the mode dial to, and press B () on the control button.

The (macro) indicator appears on the LCD screen.

•If the menu is currently displayed, press MENU first to make the menu disappear.

•You can carry out this operation even when the mode dial is set to P, M, , , or .

VGA 101

SAF

,Center the subject in the frame. Press and hold the shutter button halfway down to focus on, then press the shutter button fully down.

To return to normal shooting

Press B ( ) on the control button again. Theindicator disappears from the LCD screen.

images still Shooting

•When shooting in macro mode, use the LCD screen. If you use the finder, the limits of what you see and what you actually shoot may be different. This is due to the parallax effect.

•When shooting in macro mode, the focus range is very narrow and you may not be able to focus on the whole of the subject.

•When shooting in macro mode, the focus adjustment becomes slower to accurately focus on a close subject.