Sony DCR-DVD304E, DCR-DVD605E, DCR-DVD305E, DCR-DVD755E, DCR-DVD705E User Manual

Operating Guide

DCR-DVD105E/DVD205E/DVD304E/ DVD305E/DVD605E/DVD705E/ DVD755E

2-661-360-11(1)

Enjoying with your

DVD Handycam 12

Getting Started 18

Easy	32
Handycam
Recording	40
/Playback
Playback on DVD devices	54
Using the Recorded disc	61
Using the Setup items	64
Editing on DVD Handycam	85
Dubbing, Printing	94
Using a Computer	101
Troubleshooting	107
Additional Information	130
Glossary, Index	144

© 2006 Sony Corporation

Read this first

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

WARNING

To reduce 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.

Replace the battery with the specified type only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.

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 as the supplied one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362 (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

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 communication cable (USB, etc.) again.

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment.

By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources.

2

For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Applicable Accessories: Remote Commander, Microphone (For DCRDVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)

For customers in the U.S.A.

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.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY

Model No.: DCR-DVD755E 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.

“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.

3

Read this first (continued)

Notes on use

Your camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operations guides.

–“Operating Guide” (This manual)

–“First Step Guide” for using your camcorder with the computer connected (stored on the supplied CD-ROM)*

*The DCR-DVD105E/DVD205E/DVD304E/ DVD605E/DVD705E do not include “First Step Guide” because they do not support a computer connection.

On the discs you can use in your camcorder

You can use 8cm DVD-Rs, 8cm DVD-RWs and 8cm DVD+RWs only. Use the discs with marks listed below. See page 14 for details.

When using a “Memory Stick Duo” with “Memory Stick” compatible equipment (For DCR-DVD304E/ DVD305E/DVD755E)

Be sure to insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

Memory Stick Duo Adaptor

On using the camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder

LCD screen

On the types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder (For DCRDVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)

There are two sizes of “Memory Stick.” You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or (p.133).

“Memory Stick Duo” (This size can be used with your camcorder)

“Memory Stick”

(You cannot use it in your camcorder.)

•You cannot use any type of memory card except “Memory Stick Duo.”

•“Memory Stick PRO” and “Memory Stick PRO Duo” can be used only with “Memory Stick PRO” compatible equipment.

Battery

•The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See “Maintenance and precautions” (p.137).

•To prevent discs from being broken or recorded pictures from being lost, do not do the following when either of the respective lamps of the POWER switch (p.23) or the ACCESS lamp (p.27) is on:

–to remove the battery pack or AC Adaptor from the camcorder.

–to apply mechanical shock or vibration to the camcorder.

•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.

4

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/orbright points(white,red,blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen and the viewfinder. These points are normal.

Black point White, red, blue or green point

•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 conditions, 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 for trial recording (p.14).

•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.

•Design and specifications of recording media and accessories are subject to change without notice.

•The illustrations used on this manual are based on the model DCR-DVD305E.

•Disc in this Operating Guide refers to 8cm DVD discs.

•Available operations depend on the disc used. The following marks are used for the different DVD formats.

DVD

+RW

•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.82).

5

Read this first (continued)

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.

6

7

Table of Contents
Enjoying with your DVD Handycam
What you can do with your DVD Handycam...........................................	12
Choosing a disc ......................................................................................	14
Using your DVD Handycam ....................................................................	16
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items.............................................................	18
Step 2: Charging the battery pack ..........................................................	19
Step 3: Turning the power on, and holding your camcorder ...................	23
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD screen and viewfinder...................................	24
Step 5: Using the touch panel.................................................................	25
Step 6: Setting the date and time............................................................	26
Step 7: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” ...................................	27
Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture
(DCR-DVD205E/DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD705E/DVD755E).................	30
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic
settings
Using Easy Handycam operation............................................................	32
Recording with ease ...............................................................................	34
Playing back with ease ...........................................................................	36
Preparation for playing back on a DVD player (Finalizing) .....................	38
Recording/Playback
Recording................................................................................................	40
Playback .................................................................................................	42
Functions used for recording/playback, etc. ...........................................	44

Recording

To use zoom

To record sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording) (For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)

To record in dark places (NightShot plus)

To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects (BACK LIGHT)

8

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
To attach the shoulder belt
Playback
To use Playback zoom
To play back a series of still images (Slide show)
Recording/playback
To check the remaining battery
To turn off the operation confirmation beep
To initialize the settings (RESET)
Other part names and functions
Checking/Deleting the last scene (Review/Review deleting) ..................	48
Indicators displayed during recording/playback ......................................	49
Remote Commander (DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E).................	51
Playing the picture on a TV .....................................................................	52
Playback on DVD devices
Making the disc compatible with playback on DVD devices or
DVD drives (Finalizing)............................................................................	54
Playing back a disc on DVD devices, etc. ...............................................	58
Playing back a disc on a computer with a DVD drive installed................	59

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

Recording additional scenes after finalizing ............................................	61
Deleting all of the scenes on the disc (Formatting) .................................	62
Using the Setup items
Using the Setup items .............................................................................	64
Setup items .............................................................................................	66
CAMERA SET....................................................................................	68
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions
(EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)
STILL SET .........................................................................................	73
Settings for still images
(BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE, etc.)

9

Table of Contents (continued)
PICT.APPLI. ....................................................................................	75
Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback
(PICT.EFFECT/D.EFFECT, etc.)
DISC SET (DCR-DVD105E/DVD205E/DVD605E/DVD705E) /
MEDIA SET (DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E) .........................	77
Settings for discs and “Memory Stick Duo”
(FORMAT/FINALIZE/UNFINALIZE, etc.)
STANDARD SET..............................................................................	78
Settings while recording on a disc or other basic settings
(REC MODE/LCD/VF SET/USB SPEED, etc.)
TIME/LANGU. .................................................................................	82
(CLOCK SET/AREA SET/LANGUAGE, etc.)
Customizing Personal Menu ...................................................................	83
Editing on DVD Handycam
Copying the still images (DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)............	85
Deleting still images from the “Memory Stick Duo”
(DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)...................................................	87
Editing the original data ..........................................................................	88
Creating the Playlist ................................................................................	89
Playing the Playlist..................................................................................	92
Dubbing, Printing
Dubbing to VCR/DVD devices ................................................................	94
Recording images from a TV or VCR/DVD device
(DCR-DVD305E/DVD755E)....................................................................	96
Printing recorded still images (PictBridge compliant printer)
(DCR-DVD305E/DVD755E)....................................................................	98
Jacks to connect external devices ........................................................	100
Using a Computer (DCR-DVD305E/DVD755E)
Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer.................	101
Installing software and “First Step Guide”.............................................	103
Viewing “First Step Guide” ....................................................................	106

10

Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting.....................................................................................	107
Warning indicators and messages ........................................................	125
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ...............................................................	130
About the disc........................................................................................	132
About the “Memory Stick” (DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E) .......	133
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack...................................................	135
Maintenance and precautions ...............................................................	137
Specifications ........................................................................................	141
Glossary, Index
Glossary ................................................................................................	144
Index......................................................................................................	146

11

Enjoying with your DVD Handycam

What you can do with your DVD Handycam

Your DVD Handycam records image data on 8cm DVD*.

It is more convenient than video tape and far more versatile.

Taking beautiful shots easily

No rewinding to start recording (p.34, 40)

Recorded images are stored in empty areas on the disc so there is no risk that valuable recordings are accidentally overwritten.

Since no rewinding is necessary prior to recording, you can start shooting any time you desire.

A disc can store both movie and still images.

• Still images can be recorded on the disc or “Memory Stick Duo.”

•Some models may not support recording onto a“Memory Stick Duo.”

You can find a scene quickly using a VISUAL

INDEX screen.(p.36, 42)

The VISUAL INDEX screen allows you to check disc content at a glance. All you have to do is touch the scene you want to view.

The disc does not wear out no matter how many times you play it back. The precious moments you have captured on disc last forever.

Records widescreen format and 5.1ch surround sound (p.30, 44)

You can record high quality widescreen images on a wide LCD screen that shows the same 16:9 angle of view as a wide TV. Realistic 5.1ch surround sound can also be directly recorded onto the disc.

•Some models may not support wide screen and 5.1ch surround recording.

* DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) is a high-capacity optical disc.

12

Arecorded disc can be played back on a variety of devices

Playback on a DVD device or DVD drive (p.38, 54)

You can play back recorded and finalized** discs on a home DVD device, DVD recorder or DVD drive of a computer that supports 8cm disc.

When finalizing the disc, you can create still image slide shows and DVD menus to enable quick access to scenes you want to view.

Playback on widescreen TV and home theater (p.44, 52)

Images recorded in widescreen format can be played back on a wide TV with complete panoramic effect. Discs are also recorded with 5.1ch surround sound to provide full sound on a home theater.

•Some models may not support wide screen and 5.1ch surround recording.

Connecting DVD Handycam to a computer

• Some models may not support a computer connection.

High-speed image transfer (p.101)

Image data can be quickly transferred to a computer without requiring playback.

Computers with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) provide even faster image transfer.

Handycam DVD your with Enjoying

Using the supplied software to edit and copy (p.101)

Picture Package, the software supplied with your DVD Handycam allows you to add music and effects to create your original DVD. Copying discs could not be easier enabling you to share your precious moments with family and friends.

**Finalizing: a process to make it possible to play back recorded DVD on other DVD devices (see page 38 and 54).

13

Choosing a disc

Your DVD Handycam is compatible with 8cm DVD-R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW. It does not support 12cm discs.

Recording format for DVD-RW

When you use a DVD-RW, you can choose the recording format from VIDEO mode or VR mode. In this manual, VIDEO mode is indicated as and VR mode as .

A recording format that is compatible with most DVD devices, especially after finalizing.

In VIDEO mode, only the most recent image can be erased.

A recording format that enables editing with your DVD Handycam (deleting and rearranging the order of images).

A finalized disc can be played back in DVD devices that support VR mode*1.

Disc format features

Disc and recording formats Glossary (p.144,145)

Figures in parentheses ( ) indicate page numbers.

		DVD-R	DVD-RW			DVD+RW
Disc types and symbols
Symbols used in this manual
Both 16:9 (wide) and 4:3 movie can be	(30)	z	z		z	–
recorded on the same disc*2
Deleting the last recording immediately	(48)	–	z		z	z
Deleting recordings freely	(88)	–	–		z	–
Editing recordings on your camcorder	(88)	–	–		z	–
Using a disc repeatedly even if the disc	(62)	–	z		z	z
becomes full by formatting*3
Playing back recordings on other DVD	(38, 54)	z	z		z*1	z
devices if you finalize the disc
Playing back recordings on other DVD	(54)	–	–		–	z*4
devices even if you do not finalize the disc
Creating the DVD menu when you finalize	(57)	z	z		–	z
the disc

*1Refer to the instruction manual of your DVD device to see whether it supports the VR mode of DVD-RW. *2For still images, you can record them on the all types of discs.

*3 Formatting deletes all recordings and returns the recording medium to its original empty state. (p.62) Even when using a new disc, format it with your DVD Handycam (p.27).

*4 Do not use a DVD+RW before finalizing in a computer as this may result in a malfunction.

14

Recording time

Recording time per disc side

The minimum recording time is given in parentheses.

	unit: min.
Recording mode	Recording time
HQ (High Quality)	approx. 20 (18)
SP (Standard Play)	approx. 30 (18)
LP (Long Play)	approx. 60 (44)

Your DVD Handycam uses the VBR (Variable Bit Rate) format to automatically adjust image quality to suit the recording scene. This technology causes fluctuations in the recording time of a disc.

Movie containing quickly moving and complex images is recorded at a higher bit rate and this reduces the overall recording time.

VBR Glossary (p.145)

• The recording time for the movie drops when the disc also contains still images.

Disc use

For reliability durability of recording /playback, we recommend that you use Sony discs or discs with an *(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.

Handycam DVD your with Enjoying

Use of double-sided discs

Double-sided discs allow you to record both sides of a disc.

Recording on the A side

Place the disc in your DVD Handycam with the side with the outwards until it clicks.

symbol

symbol at the center facing

Place the symbol facing outwards.

Recording is made on the rear side.

•When using a double-sided disc, take care not to smudge the surface with fingerprints.

•When a double-sided disc is used in your DVD Handycam, recording/playback are performed on that side only. You cannot switch to record on or play back the other side with the disc set to the DVD Handycam. When recording/playback of one side is complete, remove the disc and turn it over to access the other side.

•The following operations are performed for each side of a double-sided disc.

–Finalizing (p.54)

–Unfinalizing (DVD-RW: VIDEO mode) (p.61)

–Formatting (p.62)

15

Using your DVD Handycam

1Preparing

(See page 18 to 30.)

Select the disc that best suits your needs.

Repeated use of a disc

To save recorded	To use one disc
images	repeatedly

What would you like to do after recording?

Deleting and editing	Playing back
images in your DVD	disc on a
Handycam	various DVD
	devices

The disc can be played back on various DVD devices

*Select the mode on your DVD Handycam and format (p.27).

The disc can be played back even without finalizing

2Shooting, deleting

and editing
	You cannot		You can delete or edit
(See pages 34, 40, 48	delete a		a recorded image
and 88.)	recorded		anytime (p.88).
	image.

3Viewing on your DVD Handycam

(See pages 36 and 42)

You can also connect it to a TV for viewing (p.52).

You can only delete the images you have just recorded (p.48).

Continued on the right page

16

4Viewing on another DVD device

(See pages 54 and 58.)

To view a disc recorded on your DVD Handycam on other DVD devices, you need to finalize it first.

	Finalize
DVD device /	DVD drive
DVD recorder

• The less the recording volume of the disc is, the more it takes time to finalize the disc.

The features of a finalized disc depend on disc type.

Finalize	Like commercially sold
	DVD, this disc can be
	played back in most DVD
	devices after finalizing.

Finalize

The disc can be played back Finalize in a device compatible with

the DVD-RW VR mode.

Recordings cannot be added even if there is free space left.

Unfinalizing allows you to add recordings (p.61).

Recordings can be added without unfinalizing.

The disc can be played back without finalizing.

But finalizing is required in some cases.

For details, see page 54.

Playback compatibility

Playback compatibility with any DVD device is not guaranteed. Refer to the instruction manual supplied with your DVD device or consult your dealer.

Handycam DVD your with Enjoying

17

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

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

The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied.

•Discs and “Memory Stick Duo” are not supplied.

AC Adaptor (1) (p.19)

Mains lead (1) (p.19)

Rechargeable battery pack

NP-FP50 (1) (p.20)

Cleaning cloth (1)

Shoe cover (1)(p.100)

(For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)

Attached to the camcorder.

Lens cap (1) (p.23)

A/V connecting cable (1) (p.52, 94, 96, 100)

USB cable (1) (p.98, 100)

(For DCR-DVD305E/DVD755E)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p.51)

(For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)

Surround microphone ECM-L100 (1) (p.44) (For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E)

CD-ROM “Picture Package Ver.1.8.1” (1)

(p.101) (For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/

DVD755E)

CD-ROM “Nero Express 6” (1)

(p.101) (For DCR-DVD105E/DVD205E/ DVD304E/DVD605E/DVD705E)

Use when copying a disc recorded with your camcorder onto a 12cm DVD.

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

To attach the lens cap

Thread the string of the lens cap (supplied) through the metal fittings of the grip belt.

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

18

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

You can charge the battery after attaching the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p.135) to your camcorder.

•You cannot use an NP-FP30 battery pack with your camcorder. (See the reverse side of the battery pack for the model number.)

Installing the battery pack with excess force may lead to camcorder malfunction such as deterioration in battery pack performance or difficulty in removing the battery pack.

CHG lamp

POWER switch

DC IN jack cover

DC plug

Battery

DC IN jack

Mains lead
To the wall socket	AC Adaptor

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

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

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

Open the DC IN jack cover to connect the AC Adaptor.

DC IN jack cover

Match the v mark on the DC plug with v mark on your camcorder.

Started Getting

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

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

19

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (continued)

5 The 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.

To remove the battery pack

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Slide the BATT (battery) release lever and remove the battery pack.

BATT (battery) release lever

•When you remove the battery pack, make sure that none of the respective lamps of the POWER switch (p.23) is on.

Recording time

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

For DCR-DVD105E/DVD605E

	Battery pack	Continuous	Typical
		recording	recording
		time	time*
	NP-FP50	100	45
	(supplied)	115	50
	NP-FP70	215	95
		240	110
	NP-FP71	255	115
		290	130
	NP-FP90	385	175
		435	195
	For DCR-DVD205E/DVD705E
	Battery pack	Continuous	Typical
		recording	recording
		time	time*
	NP-FP50	80	40
		85	40
	(supplied)
		90	45

When storing the battery pack

Use up the battery pack completely if you do not intend to use it for a long time (p.135).

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.

Charging time (full charge)

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

Battery pack	Charging time
NP-FP50 (supplied)	125
NP-FP70	155
NP-FP71	170
NP-FP90	220

	170	85
NP-FP70	185	90
	190	95
	200	100
NP-FP71	220	110
	230	115
	300	150
NP-FP90	335	165
	345	170

20

For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E

		Continuous	Typical
	Battery pack	recording	recording
		time	time*
	NP-FP50	75	35
		85	40
	(supplied)
		90	45
		160	80
	NP-FP70	180	90
		185	90
		190	95
	NP-FP71	215	105
		220	110
		285	140
	NP-FP90	320	160
		335	165

*Typical recording time shows the time when you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/ off and zooming.

•Times shown vary according to 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 panel is closed.

Playback time

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

For DCR-DVD105E/DVD605E

	Battery pack	LCD screen	LCD screen
		opened*	closed
	NP-FP50	105	120
	(supplied)
	NP-FP70	225	255
	NP-FP71	270	300
	NP-FP90	400	455

For DCR-DVD205E/DVD705E

	Battery pack	LCD screen	LCD screen
		opened*	closed
	NP-FP50	85	100
	(supplied)
	NP-FP70	185	215
	NP-FP71	220	255
	NP-FP90	335	385
	For DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/DVD755E
	Battery pack	LCD screen	LCD screen
		opened*	closed
	NP-FP50	80	95
	(supplied)
	NP-FP70	175	200
	NP-FP71	205	235
	NP-FP90	310	355

* When the LCD backlight turns on.

On the battery pack

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

•The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or BATTERY INFO (p.47) 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 IN jack of your camcorder, even when the mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket.

•We recommend that you use an NP-FP70, NPFP71 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.

Started Getting

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Step 2: Charging the battery pack (continued)

On the AC Adaptor

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

•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

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

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

To record, slide the POWER switch to turn	• After you have set the date and time ([CLOCK
on the respective lamp.	SET], p.26), the next time you turn on the power
When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK	of your camcorder, the current date and time will
SET] screen appears (p.26).	be displayed on the LCD screen for a few seconds.
POWER switch	3 Hold your camcorder correctly.
Lens cap

Started Getting

1 Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap.

2 Turn 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, 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

4 Ensure a good grip, then fasten the belt.

To turn off the power

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

•At the time of purchase, the power will be set to turn off automaticallyif you leaveyour camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power. ([A.SHUT OFF], p.82).

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Step 4: Adjusting the LCD screen and viewfinder

The LCD screen

Open the LCD screen 90 degrees to the camcorder (1),then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2).

DISP/BATT INFO

2 180 degrees (max.)

1 90 degrees to

2 90 degrees the camcorder (max.)

•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 turn off the LCD backlight to make the battery last longer

(For DCR-DVD205E/DVD304E/ DVD305E/DVD705E/DVD755E)

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 until disappears.

•See [LCD/VF SET] - [LCD BRIGHT] (p.79) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

The viewfinder

You can view pictures using the viewfinder with the LCD panel closed to avoid wearing down the battery, or when the picture seen on the LCD screen is poor.

Viewfinder

Extend the viewfinder until it clicks.

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.79).

The recorded picture will not be affected by the setting.

•You can adjust [FADER] and [EXPOSURE] while looking through the viewfinder (p.69, 75).

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Step 5: Using the touch panel

You can play back recorded pictures (p.36, 42), or change the settings (p.64) using the touch panel.

Touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

Support the rear of the LCD panel with the palm of your left hand. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

Touch the button on the LCD screen.

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Select the screen language in [LANGUAGE] on the TIME/LANGU. (p.82).

DISP/BATT INFO

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

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

•If the buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly, adjust the LCD screen. (CALIBRATION) (p.138)

To hide the screen indicators

Press DISP/BATT INFO to hide or show the screen indicators (counter, etc.).

Started Getting

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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.

•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.139).

POWER switch

4 Select the desired geographical area with / , then touch .

5 Set [SUMMERTIME] to [ON] with

/ , if necessary, then touch

.

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

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

1 Touch t [SETUP].

2 Select

(TIME/LANGU.) with

/

, then touch

.

• You can set any year up to the year 2079.

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

The clock starts.

•Refer to page 131 for information concerning “World time difference.”

•The recording date and time are not displayed during recording, but are automatically recorded onto the disc and you can check them during playback ([DATA CODE], p.80).

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

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Step 7: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo”

Inserting a disc	Disc cover
A new 8cm DVD-R, DVD-RW, or	OPEN switch
DVD+RW is required for recording (p.14).	Pickup lens

• Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc beforehand,usingthecleaningcloth supplied with your camcorder (p.132).

ACCESS lamp (Disc)

POWER switch

1 Check 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.

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

[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.

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

3 Set 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 (p.139).

When using a double-sided disc, take care not to smudge the surface with fingerprints.

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

Started Getting

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Step 7: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” (continued)

4 Close the disc cover.

6 Select the aspect ratio of the

The [DISC ACCESS] screen appears. It may take some time to recognize the disc depending on the disc type and condition.

xDVD-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.

xDVD-RW

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

Select the aspect ratio of the recording picture, then format the disc. Proceed to step 6.

•During Easy Handycam operation (p.32), [Format the disc? If not, remove the disc.] appears. Touch , then proceed to step 8.

5 Select the recording format for a DVD-RW, and touch , then proceed to step 7.

FORMAT :	VIDEO
Can playback on
various DVD devices.
Cannot edit in Camcorder
VIDEO	VR
	OK

recording picture ([16:9 WIDE] or [4:3]) for DVD+RW, then touch .

	FORMAT :	16:9 WIDE
	Select aspect ratio of
	movie to be recorded.
	Format again to change.
	16:9	4:3
	WIDE
		OK
	x16:9 WIDE

You can record wide-angle highresolution pictures. If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, selecting [16:9 WIDE] is recommended.

x4:3

You can record to play back pictures on a 4:3 TV.

7 Touch [YES] t [YES].

8 Touch when [Completed.] appears.

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

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

xVIDEO mode

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

xVR mode

You can edit, delete pictures, or divide movies on your camcorder (p.88). However, the disc can be played back only on DVD devices that support VR mode when you finalize it.

To remove the disc

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

•Do not applyshock 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.

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

•It may take up to 10 minutes to remove a disc if it is damaged or is dirty with fingerprints, etc. In that case, the disc might be damaged.

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•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 62.

Inserting a “Memory Stick Duo” (DCR-DVD304E/DVD305E/ DVD755E)

You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

(p.133).

•The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 74.

1 Open the Memory Stick Duo cover.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo slot in the right direction until it clicks.

•If you force the “Memory Stick Duo” into the slot in the wrong direction, the Memory Stick Duo slot, or image data may be damaged.

3 Close the Memory Stick Duo cover.

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” after step 2.

•When the ACCESS lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged.

•Make sure that the “Memory Stick Duo” does not pop up and drop off when inserting and removing it from your camcorder.

Started Getting

ACCESS lamp (“Memory Stick Duo”)

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Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-DVD205E/DVD304E/ DVD305E/DVD705E/DVD755E)

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.

POWER switch

WIDE SELECT

Movies

1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow to light up the (Movie) lamp.

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

16:9 (wide)*	4:3*

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

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

–when using a DVD+RW

–while recording movies

–when [D.EFFECT] is set to [OLD MOVIE] (p.76)

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

•Available recording time may be shorter in the following situations.

–when you toggle between 16:9 (wide) and 4:3 while recording on a DVD-R/DVD- RW (VIDEO mode).

–when you change [REC MODE] (p.78)/ with a DVD-R/DVD-RW (VIDEO mode)/ DVD+RW inserted while 4:3 is set.

MODE ON

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.52).

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

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

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

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