Sony DCR-DVD203E, DCR-DVD202E, DCR-DVD602E, DCR-DVD703E, DCR-DVD92E User Manual

DigitalVideo Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/DVD203E/ DVD403E/DVD602E/DVD653E/ DVD703E/DVD803E

2-587-623-11 (1)
Enjoying with your		10
	DVD Handycam
Getting Started		16
	Easy	27
	Handycam
	Recording/	32
	Playback
Playback on DVD devices		44
Using the Recorded disc		50
Using the Setup items		52
Editing on DVD Handycam		72
	Dubbing	78
Using a Computer		82
Troubleshooting		87
Additional Information		105

Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.

Printed in Japan

© 2005 Sony Corporation

Read this first

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

WARNING

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

CAUTION

The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

NOTICE ON THE SUPPLIED AC ADAPTOR

A moulded plug complying with BS1363 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 the supplied one and approved by

BSI to BS1362 (i.e., marked

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

ATTENTION

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

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

Notice

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

For customers in the U.S.A.

“Battery pack”

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.

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

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

The number below is for the FCC related matters only.

2

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-DVD653E

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

Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-DVD703E

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

Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-DVD803E

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.

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.

Notes on use

Your camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operations guides.

–“Operating guide” (This manual)

–“First Step Guide” for using the supplied software (stored on the supplied CDROM)*

* DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/DVD602E do not include a “First Step Guide”.

3

Read this first (continued)

On using the camcorder

•Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

View finder

LCD screen

Battery

•Before connecting your camcorder to another device with a USB cable etc., be sure to insert the connector plug in the proper direction. If you insert the connector plug forcibly in the wrong direction, the terminal may be damaged, or this may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.

Notes on the Setup items, LCD screen, viewfinder, and lens

•A setup item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions.

•The LCD screen and the viewfinder 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 appear constantly on the LCD screen and the viewfinder. These points are normal.

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

•Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun only in low light

4conditions, such as at dusk.

On recording

•Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound are recorded without any problems.You cannot delete images once you record them on a DVD-R. Use a DVD-RW/DVD+RW (not supplied) for trial recording (p.13).

•Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot be provided, even if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc.

•TV color systems differ depending on the countries/regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need a PAL system-based TV.

•Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the copyright laws.

You cannot dub copyright protected software on your camcorder.

On this manual

•The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used on this manual are captured using a digital still camera, and thus may appear different from what you see.

•The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen language before using your camcorder if necessary (p.69).

•The illustration used on this manual are based on the model DCR-DVD403E.

About the Carl Zeiss lens

Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF* measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.

*MTF stands for Modulation Transfer Function. The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens.

About the disc

•You can use 8cm DVD-Rs, 8cm DVDRWs and 8cm DVD+RWs only. Use the discs with marks listed below.

•For reliability durability of recording/ playback, we recommend that you use

Sony discs or discs with a * for VIDEO CAMERA mark for your DVD Handycam. Using a disc other than above may cause the unsatisfactory recording/playback or you may not be able to remove the disc from your DVD Handycam.

* Depending on the place you bought, the disc has a mark.

Notes on use

•Hold the disc by its edge while supporting the center hole lightly. Do not touch the recording side (the opposite of the printed side when using a single sided disc).

•Before shooting, be sure to remove dust and fingerprints from the disc with the cleaning cloth supplied with your camcorder.

Otherwise you may not be able to record or play normally in some situations using that disc.

•When you set the disc in your camcorder, press firmly until it clicks. When the message [C:13: ] appears on the LCD screen, open the disc cover and set the disc again.

•Do not attach any adhesive material such as a sticker on the surface of a disc. If you do so, the disc may become unbalanced, and this may cause a malfunction of the disc or your camcorder.

Care and storage of the discs

•Keep the disc clean, or the quality of the audio and video output may deteriorate.

•Clean the disc with the supplied cleaning cloth.

Wipe the disc from the center out. For dirt, clean the disc with a soft cloth slightly moistened in water, then remove the moisture with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents such as benzine, cleaners intended for vinyl LPs or antistatic splay, as they may cause a malfunction to the disc.

•Do not expose the disc to direct sunlight or leave it in a humid place.

•When you carry or store the disc, put it in its case.

•When you want to write letters or marks, etc. on a single sided disc, write only on the printed side using an oil-based marker with a felt-tip, and do not touch the ink until it dries. Do not heat the disc or use a sharp-pointed tool, such as ball point pen. Do not dry the surface by heating.You cannot write on, or mark, on the doublesided discs.

5

Table of Contents
Enjoying with your DVD Handycam
What you can do with your DVD Handycam............................................	10
Choosing a disc.......................................................................................	13
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items .............................................................	16
Step 2: Charging the battery pack...........................................................	17
Step 3: Turning the power on, and holding your camcorder ....................	20
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD screen and viewfinder ...................................	21
Step 5: Using the touch panel .................................................................	22
Step 6: Setting the date and time ............................................................	23
Step 7: Inserting a disc............................................................................	24
Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture
-DVD202E/DVD203E/DVD403E/DVD703E/DVD803E) ..................	26
Handycam
– using your camcorder with automatic settings
Operate your camcorder with ease .........................................................	27
Recording with ease................................................................................	28
Playing back with ease............................................................................	29
for playing back on a DVD player (Finalizing) ......................	30
Recording/Playback
Recording................................................................................................	32
Playback..................................................................................................	33
Functions used for recording/playback, etc.............................................	34
Recording
To use zoom
To record sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording)
(Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E)
To use the flash
To record in dark places (NightShot (DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E)/
NightShot plus (Except for DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E)

6

To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects
To adjust the focus for an off center subject
To fix the exposure for the selected subject
To record in mirror mode
To add special effects
To use a tripod
Playback
To play back the images in sequence
To use PB zoom
Recording/playback
To check the remaining battery
To turn off the operation confirmation beep
To initialize the settings
Other part names and functions
Checking/Deleting the last scene (Review/Review deleting)...................	38
Indicators displayed during recording/playback.......................................	39
Remote Commander (Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E)...................	41
Playing the picture on a TV .....................................................................	42
Playback on DVD devices
Making the disc compatible with playback on DVD players or
DVD drives (Finalizing)............................................................................	44
Playing back a disc on DVD players, etc. ................................................	48
Playing back a disc on a computer with a DVD drive installed................	48

Using the recorded disc (DVD-RW/DVD+RW)

Recording additional scenes after finalizing............................................	50
Deleting all of the scenes on the disc (Formatting) .................................	51
Using the Setup items
Using the Setup items .............................................................................	52
up items .............................................................................................	54
CAMERA SET ...................................................................................	56
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions
(EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)
STILL SET .........................................................................................	61
Settings for still images
(BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE, etc.)

7

Table of contents (continued)
PICT.APPLI.......................................................................................	63
Special effects on pictures or additional functions on
recording/playback (PICT.EFFECT/D.EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW,etc.)
DISC SET ..........................................................................................	65
Settings for discs
(FORMAT/FINALIZE/UNFINALIZE, etc.)
STANDARD SET...............................................................................	65
Settings while recording on a disc or other basic settings
(REC MODE/LCD/VF SET/USB SPEED, etc.)
TIME/LANGU. ...................................................................................	69
(CLOCK SET/AREA SET/LANGUAGE, etc.)
Customizing Personal Menu....................................................................	70

Editing on DVD Handycam (DVD-RW:VR mode)
Editing the original data...........................................................................	72
Creating the Playlist ................................................................................	74
Playing the Playlist ..................................................................................	77
Dubbing
Connecting to a VCR or TV .....................................................................	78
Dubbing to VCR/DVD devices .................................................................	79
Recording images from a TV or VCR/DVD device
(Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/DVD602E).....................................	80
Jacks to connect external devices...........................................................	81

Using a Computer (Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/DVD602E)

Before referring to the "First Step Guide" on your computer...................	82
Installing software....................................................................................	83
Viewing “First Step Guide”.......................................................................	86

8

Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting.......................................................................................	87
Warning indicators and messages ........................................................	101
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad...............................................................	105
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack...................................................	107
Maintenance and precautions ...............................................................	109
Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap .....................................................	113
Attaching the Shoulder Strap ................................................................	113
Specifications ........................................................................................	114
Index......................................................................................................	117

9

Enjoying with your DVD Handycam

What you can do with your DVD Handycam

Your DVD Handycam records images on an 8cm DVD* disc.

You can enjoy your DVD Handycam in ways that are different from those of other media. This makes it easier to record and view images.

A VISUAL INDEX screen that shows the disc contents at a glance

Movies and still images are recorded on the same disc.You can find the desired scene quickly using this convenient index (p.29, 33).

A Slide show that plays back still images, one after another

You can play back still images one after another using the Slide show function.You can also enjoy the Slide show on a DVD player if you finalize** the disc (p.30, 44).

Using your DVD Handycam

		Playing back	Playing back on
Preparing	Recording	on the DVD	DVD players
		Handycam	(Finalize** the disc)

10	(p.16)	(p.28, 32)	(p.29, 33)	(p.30, 44)

Playing back the recorded disc on other DVD devices

You can play back a disc on other DVD players or on the DVD drive of a computer if you finalize** it.You can also create a DVD menu that helps you to find the desired image quickly, from a list of thumbnails (p.30, 44).

Handycam DVD your with Enjoying

Editing a disc using the supplied software

You can create your own DVD discs adding special effects or music to images using the Picture Package software supplied with your camcorder (p.82).

•The DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/DVD602E do not support a computer connection.

*DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) is a high capacity optical disc which enables you to record images. In this manual, an 8cm DVD disc is described as a “disc.”

**Finalizing means converting a recorded disc so that it can be played back on other DVD playback equipment (p.30, 44). After finalizing a disc, you may not be able to record on it again on your DVD

Handycam, depending on the disc type and the recording format (p.13).	11

What you can do with your DVD Handycam (continued)

DVD functions different from those of tape media

Easy to record, then to play back recordings without rewinding

You can start recording and check the recorded images without rewinding or fast forwarding. Images are stored on the free space on the disc automatically. Therefore, you will not delete important images accidentally.

Transferring data to your computer at high speed

You can import data to your computer in less time than the actual recording time. If your computer supports Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0), you can transfer data at a faster rate.

• The DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/DVD602E do not support a computer connection.

Adjusting the image quality that suits each scene

You can record images on a disc utilizing the disc capacity more effectively thanks to the VBR* encoding system that adjusts image quality

automatically according to the scene being recorded. Recording an object that moves fast requires more space to record clear images on a disc. Therefore, the available recording time may be shorten than normal.

	* VBR stands for Variable Bit Rate. This feature enables your DVD Handycam to adjust the bit rate
12	(recording capacity per a certain time) automatically in accordance with each of the recorded scenes.

Enjoying with your DVD Handycam

Choosing a disc

What kinds of disc can I use?

The kinds of disc that you can use in your DVD Handycam are as follows.

When you use a DVD-RW, you can choose the recording format from VIDEO mode or VR mode.

Disc type and the recording
format		8cm DVD-R		8cm DVD-RW		8cm DVD+RW
				VIDEO mode	VR mode
Marks used in this manual
		This kind		This kind of disc can be overwritten repeatedly,
Features		of disc can		even when the disc is full, if you format* it.
		be recorded
		only once
• Use Sony discs or discs with a			mark. Depending on the place you bought, the disc
has a	mark.

Differences in the recording format on DVD-RWs

has wide compatibility with other players.

(Video Recording mode) enables you to edit, such as deleting or dividing scenes, the material you have recorded on your DVD Handycam. Once you finalize the disc, you can play back the disc with a DVD player that supports VR mode.

•Refer to the specifications of your playback equipment for additional compatibility information.

Examples of incompatible discs

• 12cm DVD-R	• CD
• 12cm DVD-RW	• CD-R
• 12cm DVD+RW	• CD-ROM
• DVD+R	• CD-RW
• DVD-RAM
• DVD-ROM

Handycam DVD your with Enjoying

*Formatting makes a disc ready for recording. Also, formatting removes all images data from a previously recorded disc, allowing you to recover the full capacity of that disc. Therefore, you can use the disc

repeatedly (p.51).	13

Choosing a disc (continued)

Do the features differ according to the disc?

What you can do with your disc differs, depending on the disc type and the recording format used.

The number in the parentheses indicates the reference page.

	Disc type
	Recording movies and still images	(28, 32)
	Playing back the last scene immediately	(38)
	Deleting the last scene immediately	(38)	−
	Playing back recordings on other DVD	(30, 44)
	players if you finalize the disc1)
	Playing back recordings on other DVD	(44)	−	−	−	2)
	players even if you do not finalize the disc1)
	Creating the DVD menu when you finalize	(45)			−
	the disc
	Recording additional scenes after finalizing	(50)	−	3)		4)
	the disc
	Using the disc repeatedly by formatting it	(51)	−
	Editing images on your DVD Handycam	(72)	−	−		−
	Transferring recorded scenes to your	(82)
	computer and editing them

1)DVD discs recorded by Sony DVD Handycam are designed to be played back on home DVD players, DVD recorders, and computer DVD drives. DVD-RWs recorded in the VR mode must be played back on DVD playback equipment that supports the VR mode. Note that playback on all home DVD players, DVD recorders, and computer DVD drives may not be guaranteed. Refer to the specifications of your playback equipment for additional compatibility information.

2)Do not try to playback these discs in the DVD-ROM drive on your computer. This may cause a malfunction.

3)Unfinalizing is required (p.50).

4)A confirmation dialog asking you if you want to record additional material appears (p.50).

14

How to choose a disc

The figure below helps you to choose the best disc for your purpose.

Do you want to use the disc repeatedly?

No. I do not want to delete		Yes. I want to use one disc
images once I record them.		repeatedly.

What do you want to do with the disc after recording on it?

I want to edit the disc, such as dividing or deleting images.

And, you can play back the disc on the various DVD playback devices.

I want to play back the disc on various DVD playback devices.

And, you can

play back the disc

without finalizing it.

Handycam DVD your with Enjoying

Did you find the disc type that suits your purpose?

Now, enjoy your DVD Handycam.

15

Step 1: Checking supplied items

Make sure that you have following items supplied with your camcorder.

If any of the following items are not included, contact your nearest Sony dealer.

8cm DVD-R DMR30 (1) (p.13) (Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E)

AC Adaptor (1) (p.17)

Mains lead (1) (p.17)

AV connecting cable (1) (p.42, 78)

USB cable (1) (p.82)

(Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/ DVD602E)

Cleaning cloth (1)

Shoulder strap (1) (p.113)

Shoe cover (1) (p.81)

(Except for DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E)

Attached to the camcorder.

Lens cap (1) (p.20) (DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E)

Attached to the camcorder.

Rechargeable battery pack (1) (p.18) NP-FP50:Except for DCR-DVD403E/

DVD803E

NP-FP70:DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E

CD-ROM “PicturePackage Ver.1.8” (1) (p.82)

(Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD202E/ DVD602E)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p.41) (Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E)

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

16

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

	You can charge the battery after attaching
		3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the
	the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series)
	(p.107) to your camcorder.	DC IN jack on your camcorder.
	DC IN jack cover	Open the DC IN jack cover to connect
	DC IN jack	the AC Adaptor.

		DC IN jack cover
	CHG lamp
	Power switch	Match the mark
		on the DC plug with
	Battery	mark on your
		camcorder.

DC plug

Mains lead
To the wall socket	AC Adaptor

1Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.

2Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow to set it to OFF (CHG) (The default setting).

4Connect the AC Adaptor to the wall socket using the mains lead.

The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts.

5The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

Disconnect the AC Adaptor holding both your camcorder and the DC plug.

Started Getting

17

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (continued)

To remove a battery pack

Slide the BATT release button in the direction of the arrow while pressing down the projection in the center of the BATT release button ( ), slide the battery pack towards the back of your camcorder, then remove the battery pack ( ).

Projection

BATT release button

When storing the battery pack

Use up the battery pack completely if you do not intend to use it for a long time (p.107).

To use an outside power source

Make the same connections as you do when charging the battery pack. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case.

For DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E/DVD653E

		Continuous	Typical
	Battery pack	recording	recording
		time	time
	NP-FP50	80	35
		85	40
	(supplied)
		90	40
		170	80
	NP-FP70	185	90
		190	90
		300	145
	NP-FP90	335	165
		345	170

For DCR-DVD202E/DVD203E/DVD703E

		Continuous	Typical
	Battery pack	recording	recording
		time	time
	NP-FP50	75	35
		85	40
	(supplied)
		90	40
		160	70
	NP-FP70	180	85
		190	90
		290	140
	NP-FP90	320	155
		345	170

Charging time (full charge)

Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.

Battery pack	Charging time
NP-FP50*	130
NP-FP70**	160
NP-FP90	220

*Supplied with the models except for DCRDVD403E/DVD803E.

**Supplied with DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E.

Recording time

Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.

For DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E

	Battery pack	Continuous	Typical
		recording time	recording time
		55	25
	NP-FP50	60	25
		60	25
	NP-FP70	120	55
		125	60
	(supplied)
		130	60
		215	105
	NP-FP90	230	110
		235	115

If you record under the following conditions: Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off.

Bottom: Recording time when recording with the viewfinder while the LCD screen is closed.

18

Playback time

Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.

For DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E/DVD653E

	Battery pack	LCD screen	LCD screen
		opened*	closed
	NP-FP50	105	125
	(supplied)
	NP-FP70	225	265
	NP-FP90	400	475
	For DCR-DVD202E/DVD203E/DVD703E
	Battery pack	LCD screen	LCD screen
		opened*	closed
	NP-FP50	90	110
	(supplied)
	NP-FP70	190	235
	NP-FP90	345	415
	For DCR-DVD403E/DVD803E
	Battery pack	LCD screen	LCD screen
		opened*	closed
	NP-FP50	90	105
	NP-FP70	190	225
	(supplied)
	NP-FP90	345	400

* When the LCD backlight turns on.

On the battery pack

•Before changing the battery pack, slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG).

•The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or BATTERY INFO (p.37) will not be correctly displayed under the following conditions.

–The battery pack is not attached correctly.

–The battery pack is damaged.

–The battery pack is fully discharged. (For BATTERY INFO only.)

•The power will not be supplied from the battery as long as the AC Adaptor is connected to

the DC jack of your camcorder, even when the mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket.

•We recommend that you use an NP-FP70 or NP-FP90 battery pack when a video light (optional) is attached.

On the charging/recording/playback time

•Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C (77°F). (10-30°C (50-86°F) is recommended.)

•Available recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperatures.

•The available recording and playback time will be shorter depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder.

On the AC Adaptor

•Use the nearby wall socket when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.

•Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.

•Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.

PRECAUTION

•Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (mains) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall socket via the AC Adaptor.

Started Getting

19

Step 3: Turning the power on, and holding your camcorder

To record or play back, slide the POWER switch to turn on the respective lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p.23).

Lens cover *

POWER switch

* Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E

1Turn on the power by sliding the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow while pressing the green button in the center.

When you record or play back, switch the power mode by sliding the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow until the respective lamp lights up.

Green button

(Movie): To record movies

(Still): To record still images

(Play/Edit): To play back pictures on your camcorder, or to edit them (DVD-RW: VR mode only)

CHG

20

•When you set the POWER switch to (Movie) or(Still), the lens cover opens up (Except for DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E).

•After you have set the date and time ([CLOCK SET], p.23), the next time you turn on the power of your camcorder, the current date and time will be displayed on the LCD screen for a few seconds.

2Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap (DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E).

3 Hold your camcorder correctly.

4Ensure a good grip, then fasten the belt.

To turn off the power

Slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG).

•At the time of purchase, the power will be set to turn off automatically if you leave your

camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power. ([A.SHUT OFF], p.69).

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD screen and viewfinder

The LCD screen

Open the LCD screen 90 degrees to the camcorder ( ), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play ( ).

DISP/BATT INFO

180 degrees

(max.)

	90 degrees
		90 degrees to the
	(max.)
		camcorder

•Be careful not to press the buttons on the LCD frame accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD screen.

•If you open the LCD screen 90 degrees to the camcorder, then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side, you can close it with the LCD screen side facing out. This is convenient during playback operations.

To darken the LCD screen

Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds until appears.

This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or you want to save battery power. The recorded picture will not be affected by the setting. To cancel, press and hold DISP/BATT INFO untildisappears.

•See [LCD/VF SET] - [LCD BRIGHT] (p.66) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

The viewfinder

You can view pictures using the viewfinder to avoid wearing down the battery, or

the picture seen on the LCD screen is

Viewfinder	Getting
Extend the viewfinder
until it clicks.	Started

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the picture is clear.

•You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight by selecting [LCD/VF SET] - [VF B.LIGHT] (p.67).

The recorded picture will not be affected by the setting.

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Step 5: Using the touch panel

You can play back recorded pictures (p.29, 33), or change the settings (p.52) using the touch panel.

Touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

Touch the button on the LCD screen.

DISP/BATT INFO

•Perform the same actions as explained above when you press the buttons on the LCD frame or alongside of the LCD screen.

•Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD frame accidentally while using the touch panel.

To hide the screen indicators

Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the screen indicators (such as counter, etc.) on or off.

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Select the language in [LANGUAGE] on the TIME/ LANGU. (p.69).

22

Step 6: Setting the date and time

Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or slide the POWER switch down.

•If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p.111).

switch

4 Select the desired geographical

area with

/

, then touch

.

5Set [SUMMERTIME] to [ON] with

/, if necessary, then touch

.

Started Getting

Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for the first time.

1 Touch [SETUP].

2Select TIME/LANGU. with / , then touch .

3Select [CLOCK SET] with/, then touch .

6Set [Y] (year) with /, then touch .

You can set any year up to the year 2079.

7Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour and minute, then touch .

The clock starts.

•Refer to page 106 for information concerning ”World time difference.”

23

Step 7: Inserting a disc

A new 8cm DVD-R, DVD-RW, or DVD+RW is required for recording (p.13).

•Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc beforehand, using the cleaning cloth supplied with your camcorder (p.5).

Disc cover

OPEN switch

Pickup lens

POWER switch

1Check that the power of your camcorder is on.

•You can remove the disc when a power source is connected to your camcorder even when your camcorder is turned off. However, the disc recognition process (step 4) does not start.

2Slide the disc cover OPEN switch in the direction of the arrow (OPEN ).

[PREPARING TO OPEN] appears on the LCD screen. Then the opening melody sounds once, and the camcorder beeps. After the beeps stop, the disc cover opens slightly automatically.

When the disc cover

opens slightly, open

it further.

•Be careful not to obstruct the operation with your hand or other objects, etc., when opening or closing the disc cover. Move the belt to the bottom of the camcorder, then open or close the disc cover.

•If you catch the belt or the lens cap strap* when closing the disc cover, it may cause your camcorder to malfunction.

*DCR-DVD92E/DVD602E.

3Set the disc with the recording side facing your camcorder, then press the center of the disc until it clicks.

Set the disc with the label side facing out when using a single sided disc.

•Do not touch the disc with the recording side or pickup lens. For details about pickup lens, see page 111.

24

4Close the disc cover.

Your camcorder starts recognizing the inserted disc.

It may take some time to recognize the disc depending on the disc type and condition.

DVD-R

You can start recording immediately after [DISC ACCESS] disappears from the LCD screen.You do not need to proceed to steps after step 5.

DVD-RW

Select the recording format, then format the disc. Proceed to step 5.

DVD+RW

The FORMAT screen appears. Proceed to step 6.

•During Easy Handycam operation (p.27), [Format the disc? If not, remove the disc.] appears. Touch OK then Proceed to step 7.

5Select the recording format for a DVD-RW, and touch .

VIDEO mode

You can play back the disc on most of DVD players if you finalize it.

VR mode

You can edit, delete pictures, or divide movies on your camcorder (p.72). However, the disc can be played back only on DVD players that support VR mode when you finalize it.

6 Touch [YES] [YES].

7Touch when [Completed.] appears.

When the formatting is completed, you can start recording on the DVD-RW or the DVD+RW.

•Do not remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC adaptor while formatting.

To remove the disc

Perform steps 1 and 2 to open the disc cover, then remove the disc.

It may take some time to remove the disc depending on the disc condition or recorded materials.

•Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder while the ACCESS lamp lights up or flashes, or [DISC ACCESS] or [PREPARING TO OPEN] is displayed on the LCD screen.

•If you close the disc cover with the disc set incorrectly, it may cause your camcorder to malfunction.

•After your camcorder recognizes the disc, disc information such as the date you started to use it and information on previously recorded areas appears for about 8 seconds. The information on previously recorded areas may not be displayed correctly depending on the condition of the disc.

•To delete all of the previously recorded pictures from a DVD-RW/DVD+RW, then to use it again to record new pictures, see “Deleting all of the scenes on the disc (Formatting)” on page 51.

Started Getting

25

Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-DVD202E/ DVD203E/DVD403E/DVD703E/DVD803E)

By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-resolution pictures.

If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended.

switch

WIDE SELECT button

1Slide the POWER switch down to light up the (Movie) lamp.

•You cannot change the aspect ratio in the following cases:

–when the POWER switch is set to (Still).

–while recording movies

–when [D.EFFECT] is set to [OLD MOVIE] (p.64).

•Differences in the angle of view between 4:3 and 16:9 vary depending on the zoom position.

•When recording on a DVD-R/DVD-RW (VIDEO mode)/DVD+RW, the available recording time may be shorter in the following situations.

–when you record pictures while toggling between 16:9 and 4:3.

–when you change the [REC MODE] during 4:3 (p.65).

To play back pictures after connecting your camcorder to a TV

Set [TV TYPE] to [16:9] or [4:3] according to your TV (16:9/4:3) (p.42).

•When viewing 16:9 pictures with [TV TYPE] set to [4:3], pictures may appear rough depending on subjects.

2Press WIDE SELECT repeatedly to select the desired screen aspect ratio.

16:9* 4:3*

To play back images on a DVD player or a DVD recorder

The way you see pictures on the TV screen may differ depending on your player. For details, refer to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices you are using.

•When you play back pictures recorded in 16:9 on a DVD+RW with a DVD player or a DVD recorder, they may appear to be compressed in the lengthwise direction.

*When viewing on the LCD screen. It may be different in the viewfinder.

26

Easy Handycam – using your camcorder with automatic settings

Operate your camcorder with ease

With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically adjusted optimally, which frees you from detailed adjustment.

Since only basic functions become available and screen font size increases for easy viewing, even first time users can enjoy easy operation.

Complete the preparations described in steps 1 to 8 (p.16 to 26) before operation.

•When inserting a new DVD-RW, it formatted with VIDEO mode.

•When using a DVD-RW disc formatted in VR mode, you cannot use the editing function (p.72).

If you do not intend to use the Easy Handycam operation, go to page 32.

1Turn on the power by sliding the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow while pressing the green button in the center.

POWER switch

Green button

EASY button

2 Press EASY.

Now try recording

To cancel Easy Handycam

Press EASY again.

The EASY lamp turns off.

•If you turn off the power without canceling Easy Handycam operation, your camcorder turns on in Easy Handycam operation automatically when you turn on the power.

During Easy Handycam operation

•You cannot use some buttons or switches (p.28, 29), and some setup items (p.54).

•If you set an invalid operation, [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation] appears.

settings automatic with camcorder your using –Handycam Easy

27

Easy Handycam – using your camcorder with automatic settings (continued)

Recording with ease

During the EASY Handycam operation, Movies [REC MODE], Still images [QUALITY] and [IMAGE SIZE] are recorded with the default settings (p.62, 65).

1Slide the POWER switch down repeatedly to light up the (Movie) or (Still) lamp.

Make sure the EASY lamp lights up in blue. If not, press EASY to light it up (p.27).

… To record movies
… To record still images

2 Start recording.

Movies					Still Images

Press REC START/STOP (or).

[STBY] [REC]

To stop recording, press it again.

Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus ( ), then press it fully ( ).

Flashing Lights up

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

recorded.

To record the next images

Perform step 2.

•You can continue recording if you have not finalized the disc (p.30) and there is still space to record on the disc when:

–you turn off the power, then turn it on again.

–you remove a disc from your camcorder, then

28	insert it again.

•When you record in Easy Handycam operation, you cannot use following functions:

–BACK LIGHT (p.35)

–Turning off the backlight of the LCD screen (p.21)

–Checking/Deleting the last scene (p.38)

Playing back with ease

1Slide the POWER switch down repeatedly to light up the (Play/Edit) lamp.

The VISUAL INDEX screen appears on the LCD screen.

Make sure the EASY lamp lights up in blue. If not, press EASY to light it up (p.27).

VISUAL INDEX screen

	Previous
	6 pictures
	Next
	6 pictures
	Movie tab
… To playback	Still image tab	Appears with the image
		on the tab that was played
		back last.

2 Start playing back.

Movies

Touch the Movie tab, then the movie to be played back.

Beginning

Toggles Play or

of the scene/

Next

previous scene

Pause as you touch

scene

Stop (go to the			Recording
		Reverse/
VISUAL INDEX screen)	forward		date/time

Still Images

Touch the Still image tab, then the still image to be played back.

Recording date/time

Previous/Next	Go to the
	VISUAL INDEX screen

When the selected movie has played back to the end, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen.

• When you touch a movie marked with	• When you playback during EASY Handycam
, you can play it back from the point	operation you cannot use following functions:
you have stopped previously.	– PB zoom (p.36)
When you record another new image,	– Turning off the backlight of the LCD screen
appears with the image.	(p.21)

settings automatic with camcorder your using –Handycam Easy

29

Easy Handycam – using your camcorder with automatic settings (continued)

Preparation for playing back on a DVD player (Finalizing)

With Easy Handycam operation, your DVD Handycam sets up the following options automatically. Therefore, you can finalize a disc easily.

–creating a DVD menu to display images as thumbnails on a DVD player, etc (p.45).

–creating a photomovie to playback still images on a DVD player, etc (p.46).

If you want to customize the settings above and finalize a disc, cancel Easy Handycam operation, then finalize the disc normally (p.44).

•A DVD-R cannot be overwritten once you finalize it even when there is space to record.

•If you finalize a DVD-RW (VIDEO mode)/DVD+RW, you cannot record additional material on the disc during Easy Handycam operation. Cancel Easy Handycam operation, then follow the steps shown on page 50.

1Place your camcorder in a stable position. Connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

EASY button

DC IN jack

AC Adaptor

to wall socket

POWER switch

•Be sure to use the AC adaptor to prevent your camcorder from running out of power during finalizing.

2Turn on your camcorder and make sure the EASY lamp lights up.

When the EASY lamp turns off, press EASY to set the Easy Handycam operation to ON.

3Insert the disc to be finalized.

See "Step 7: Inserting a Disc" on page 24 for details.

30