Sony DCR-DVD506E, DCR-DVD508E, DCR-DVD808E, DCR-DVD908E, DCR-DVD406E User Manual

...

2-319-641-11(1)

Digital Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

DCR-DVD406E/DVD408E/ DVD506E/DVD508E/DVD808E/ DVD908E

Enjoying with your

camcorder

Getting Started 19

Recording/Playback

Editing 48

Utilizing recording media 57

Customizing your

camcorder

Using a Computer 81

Troubleshooting 86

Additional

Information

Quick

Reference

112

Read this before operating your camcorder

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

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 CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE

ATTENTION

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

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.

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 Accessory: Remote Commander

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-DVD808E Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, 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.: DCR-DVD908E Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA

92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC

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.

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)

Types of the disc you can use in your camcorder

You can use the following discs only.

Continued ,

Read this before operating your camcorder (Continued)

– 8cm DVD-RW – 8cm DVD+RW – 8cm DVD-R – 8cm DVD+R DL

Use the discs with marks listed below. See page 12 for details.

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

*(for

VIDEO CAMERA) mark for your camcorder.

b Note

• Using a disc other than above may cause the unsatisfactory recording/playback or you may not be able to remove the disc from your

camcorder.

* Depending on the place you bought, the disc has

mark.

Types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder

You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

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

(p. 102).

“Memory Stick PRO” compatible equipment.

• Do not attach a label or the like on a “Memory Stick Duo” or a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

When using a “Memory Stick Duo” with “Memory Stick” compatible equipment

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

Memory Stick Duo Adaptor

Using the camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder LCD screen

“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

Battery

• The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See “About handling of your camcorder” (p. 105).

• To prevent discs from being broken or recorded images from being lost, do not do the following when either of the respective lamps of the POWER switch (p. 23) or the access lamps (p. 26, 28) is on:

– to remove the battery pack or AC

Adaptor from the camcorder.

– to apply mechanical shock or vibration to

the camcorder.

• When connecting your camcorder to another device with a USB cable, be sure to insert the connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the terminal and may result in a malfunction of your camcorder.

About menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens

• A menu 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 results of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.

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.

• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take images 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 image and sound are recorded without any

problems. You cannot delete images once you record them on a DVD-R/DVD+R DL. Use a DVD-RW/DVD+RW for trial recording (p. 12).

• 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.

About language setting

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. 24).

About this manual

• The LCD screens and the viewfinder images and indicators shown in this manual were taken with a digital still camera, and may look different from what you actually see.

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

• The illustration used in this manual are based on the model DCR-DVD508E/ DVD908E.

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

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

Continued ,

Read this before operating your camcorder (Continued)

of a Carl Zeiss Lens. Also, the lens for your camcorder is T -coated to suppress unwanted reflections and faithfully reproduce colors. MTF= Modulation Transfer Function. The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens.

About the marks used in this manual

• The operations available depend on the disc used. The following marks are used to indicate the type of disc you can use for a particular operation.

Table of Contents

Read this before operating your

camcorder ....................................2

Subject examples and solutions

......................................................9

Enjoying with your camcorder

What you can do with your

camcorder ..................................10

Choosing a disc ..........................12

Using your camcorder ................14

“ HOME” and “ OPTION”

- Taking advantage of two types of

menus ........................................16

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

....................................................19

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

....................................................20

Step 3: Turning the power on, and

setting the date and time ............23

Changing the language setting

....................................................... 24

Step 4: Preparing for recording

....................................................25

Step 5: Inserting a disc or a

“Memory Stick Duo” ...................26

Recording/Playback

Recording and playing back with

ease (Easy Handycam) ..............29

Recording ...................................32

Zooming ........................................ 34

Recording sound with more presence

(5.1ch surround recording) ........... 34

Using the flash .............................. 34

Recording high quality still images during movie recording (Dual Rec)

....................................................... 35

Recording in dark places (NightShot)

....................................................... 36

Adjusting the exposure for backlit

subjects ......................................... 36

Recording in mirror mode ............. 36

Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3)

....................................................... 36

Recording the fast action in slow-

motion (SMTH SLW REC) .............. 37

Playback .....................................39

Using PB zoom ............................. 41

Playing back a series of still images

(Slide show) .................................. 41

Playing the picture on a TV

....................................................42

Making the disc compatible with playback on other devices or DVD

drives (Finalizing) .......................44

Editing

(OTHERS) category .............48

Deleting images ..........................48

Dividing the image ......................50

Creating the Playlist ...................51

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD

recorders ....................................54

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer)

....................................................55

Utilizing recording media

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY)

category ......................................57

Playing a disc on other devices

....................................................57

Finding the right disc (DISC

SELECT GUIDE) ........................58

Deleting all scenes on the disc

(Formatting) ................................59

Recording additional scenes after

finalizing ....................................60

Continued ,

Table of Contents (Continued)

Customizing your camcorder Using a Computer

What you can do with the

(SETTINGS) category of the

HOME MENU ............................ 62

Using the HOME MENU ................ 62

List of the (SETTINGS) category

items .............................................. 63

MOVIE SETTINGS .................... 64

(Items for recording movies)

PHOTO SETTINGS ................... 66

(Items for recording still images)

VIEW IMAGES SET ................... 69

(Items to customize the display)

SOUND/DISP SET .................... 70

(Items to adjust beep and the screen)

OUTPUT SETTINGS ................. 72

(Items for when connecting other devices)

CLOCK/ LANG ........................ 72

(Items to set clock and language)

GENERAL SET .......................... 73

(Other setup items)

Activating functions using the

OPTION MENU ..................... 74

Using the OPTION MENU ............. 74

Recording items on the OPTION

MENU ............................................ 75

Viewing items on the OPTION MENU

....................................................... 75

Functions set in the OPTION MENU

.................................................... 76

What you can do with Windows

computer ....................................81

Installing the “First Step Guide” and

software ..................................... 83

Viewing “First Step Guide”

....................................................85

Using a Macintosh computer

....................................................85

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting .........................86

Warning indicators and messages

....................................................95

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad

....................................................99

Maintenance and precautions

..................................................101

Specifications ...........................108

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls

..................................................112

Indicators displayed during

recording/playback ...................116

Glossary ...................................119

Index ........................................ 120

Subject examples and solutions

Shooting

Checking your golf swing

B SMTH SLW REC............................. 37

Capturing still images during movie recording

B Dual Rec......................................... 35

Flowers in close-up

B PORTRAIT...................................... 78

B FOCUS............................................ 76

B TELE MACRO ................................. 76

Focusing on the dog on the left side of the screen

B FOCUS............................................ 76

B SPOT FOCUS.................................. 76

Getting a good shot of a ski slope or beach

B BACK LIGHT....................................36

B BEACH ............................................78

B SNOW .............................................78

A child on the stage under a spot light

B SPOTLIGHT.....................................78

Fireworks with all its splendor

B FIREWORKS....................................77

B FOCUS ............................................76

A sleeping child under dim light

B NightShot........................................36

B COLOR SLOW SHTR.......................79

Enjoying with your camcorder

What you can do with your camcorder

Your camcorder 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.29, 32)

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.

b Notes

• Still images can be recorded only on "Memory Stick Duo."

You can find a scene quickly using a VISUAL INDEX screen (p.30, 39)

The VISUAL INDEX screen allows you to check recorded contents 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 for a long time.

Records widescreen format and 5.1ch surround sound (p.34, 36)

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.

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

A recorded disc can be played back on a variety of devices

Playback on a DVD device or DVD drive (p.44)

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

When finalizing the disc, you can create DVD menus to enable quick access to scenes you want to view.

Playback on widescreen TV and home theater (p.34,

42)

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.

Connecting camcorder to a computer

High-speed image transfer (p.81)

Image data can be quickly transferred to a com puter without requiring playback. Computers with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) provide even faster image transfer.

Using the supplied software to edit and copy (p.81)

Picture Motion Browser, the software supplied with your camcorder allows you to edit movies or still images stored in your computer to create your original DVD. Copying discs could not be easier enabling you to share your precious moments with family and friends.

Enjoying with your camcorder

** Finalizing: a process to make it possible to play back recorded DVD on other DVD devices (p.44).

Choosing a disc

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

Recording time

Expected recordable time on one side of the disc. The recordable time varies depending on type of discs or recording mode.

Apporoximate recordable time

( ) : the minimum recording time

Recording mode

9M (HQ) (high quality)

6M (SP) (standard quality)

3M (LP) (long play)

z Tips

• Figures such as 9M and 6M in the table show the average bit rate. M stands for Mbps.

• If you use a double-sided disc, you can record on both sides of the disc (p.101).

Your camcorder 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. Movies containing quickly moving and complex images are recorded at a higher bit rate, and this reduces the overall recording time.

20 (18) 35 (32)

30 (18) 55 (32)

60 (44) 110 (80)

Recording format for DVD-RW

When you use a DVD-RW, you can choose t he recording format from VIDEO m ode 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 camcorder (deleting and rearranging the order of images). A finalized disc can be played back in DVD devices

VIDEO mode and VR mode Glossary (p.119)

that support VR mode.

Disc format features

Disc types and symbols

Symbols used in this manual

Figures in parentheses ( ) indicate page numbers.

DVD-RW DVD+RW DVD-R DVD+R DL

Enjoying with your camcorder

Both 16:9 (wide) and 4:3 movie can be recorded on the same disc

Deleting the most recent recording (49) zzz ––

Deleting or editing recordings on your camcorder

(36)

(48)

Using a disc repeatedly even if the disc becomes full by formatting*

Finalizing required to play on other devices (44) z

Creating the DVD menu when you finalize the disc

(59)

(47)

Making longer recordings on a side of a disc

*1Refer to the instruction manual of your DVD device to see whether it supports the VR mode of DVD-RW.

Formatting deletes all recordings and returns the recording medium to its original empty state (p.59). Even when using a new disc, format it with your camcorder (p.26).

*3Finalizing is required to play the disc in a DVD drive on a computer. A DVD+RW that is not finalized may

cause the computer to malfunction.

zz – zz

– z –––

zzz ––

–*

z – zzz

––––z

Using your camcorder

1Preparing

(See page 19 to 28.)

* Select the recording format and format the disc on your camcorder (p.26).

z Tips

• You can select the disc from [DISC SELECT GUIDE] (p.58).

Select the disc that best suits your needs.

Do you want to delete or edit images on your camcorder?

Yes No

Do you want to delete images and reuse the disc?

Yes No

For long recording

2Recording, playback, editing

(See pages 29, 32, 39, and 50.) What you can do with your camcorder depends on the type of disc (p.13).

3Viewing on your camcorder

(See pages 30 and 39)

You can also connect it to a TV for viewing (p.42).

Continued on the next page

Finalize

4Viewing on another DVD device

(See pages 44, 57.)

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

Finalize

Enjoying with your camcorder

DVD devi ce / DVD re co rde r

b Notes

• 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

Finalize

DVD, this disc can be played back in most DVD devices after finalizing.

The disc can be played back in a device compatible with the DVD-RW VR mode.

The disc can be played back without finalizing. But finalizing is required in some cases. For details, see page 44.

DVD dr ive

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

Unfinalizing allows you to add recordings (p.60).

Recordings can be added without unfinalizing.

Playback compatibility

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

“ HOME” and “ OPTION”

- Taking advantage of two types of menus

“ HOME MENU” - the starting point for operations with your camcorder

(HELP)

Displays a description of the item (p. 17)

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

Make sure that you have the following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied.

AC Adaptor (1) (p. 20)

Mains lead (1) (p. 20)

A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 42, 54)

USB cable (1) (p. 55)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 115)

CD-ROM “Handycam Application Software” (1) (p. 81)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Getting Started

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60 (1) (p. 20)

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

Battery

DC plug

Jack cover

You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) (p. 104) after attaching it to your camcorder.

b Notes

• You can use only "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack H series.

AC Adaptor

1 Turn the POWER switch in the

direction of the arrow to OFF (CHG) (The default setting).

2 Attach the battery pack by sliding

it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. Lift up the viewfinder and attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.

POWER switch

DC IN jack

CHG (charge) lamp

Mains lead

To the wall socket

4 Connect the mains lead to the AC

Adaptor and the wall socket.

The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged.

5 Disconnect the AC Adaptor from

the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

b Notes

• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the camcorder and the DC plug.

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack of your camcorder.

Open the jack cover, and connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor.

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

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). 2 Raise the viewfinder. 3 Press the BATT (battery) release button

and remove the battery pack.

BATT (battery) release button

b Notes

• When you remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor, make sure that the (Movie) lamp/

(Still) lamp (p. 23) is turned off.

When storing the battery pack

Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period.

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.

To check the remaining battery (Battery Info)

Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/BATT INFO.

After a while, the approximate recordable time and battery information appear for about 7 seconds. You can view the battery information for up to 20 seconds by

pressing DISP/BATT INFO again while the information is displayed.

Remaining battery (approx.)

Recording capacity (approx.)

Charging time

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

Battery pack Charging time

NP-FH50 135

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH70 170

NP-FH100 390

135

Recording time

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

DCR-DVD406E/DVD408E/DVD808E

Continuous

Battery pack

NP-FH50 80 40

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH70 170 85

NP-FH100 395 195

recording time

Typical recording time*

80 40

105 50

110 55

180 90

415 205

Continued ,

Getting Started

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

DCR-DVD506E/DVD508E/DVD908E

Battery pack

Continuous recording time

Typical recording time*

NP-FH50 65 30

70 35

NP-FH60 (supplied)

90 45

95 45

NP-FH70 145 70

150 75

NP-FH100 340 170

355 175

* Typical recording time shows the time when

you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/off and zooming.

b Notes

• All times measured with recording mode [SP]

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 panel is closed.

Playing time

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

DCR-DVD406E/DVD408E/DVD808E

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

NP-FH50 115 125

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH70 245 270

NP-FH100 565 615

LCD panel closed

150 165

DCR-DVD506E/DVD508E/DVD908E

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

LCD panel closed

NP-FH50 115 120

NP-FH60

150 160

(supplied)

NP-FH70 245 255

NP-FH100 565 590

* When the LCD backlight is on.

On the battery pack

• Before changing the battery pack, Turn the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) and turn off the

(Movie) lamp/ (Still) lamp (p. 23).

• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or Battery Info (p. 21) 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 worn-out (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.

• When attaching an optional video light, it is recommended that you use an NP-FH70/NPFH100 battery pack.

• We do not recommend using an NP-FH30, which only allows short recording and playback times, with your camcorder.

On the charging/recording/playback time

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

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

• The 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.

• 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.

Step 3: Turning the power on, and 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 change the POWER switch position.

POWER switch

1 While pressing the green button,

turn the POWER switch repeatedly in the direction of the arrow until the respective lamp lights up.

(Movie): To record movies

(Still): To record still images

The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.

Getting Started

2 Select the desired geographical

area with v/V, then touch [NEXT].

3 Set [SUMMERTIME], then touch

[NEXT].

Continued ,

Step 3: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time (Continued)

• The lens cover opens automatically when the

4 Set [Y] (year) with v/V.

5 Select [M] with b/B, then set the

month with v/V.

6 Set [D] (day), hour and minute in

the same way, then touch [NEXT].

power is turned on. It closes when the playback screen is selected, or the power is turned off.

• In the setting at the time of purchase, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 73).

z Tips

• The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the disc, and can be displayed during playback (see page 69 for [DATA CODE]).

• Refer to page 100 for information concerning “World time difference.”

• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly, adjust the LCD screen ([CALIBRATION], p. 106).

7 Make sure that the clock is

correctly set, then touch .

The clock starts.

You can set any year up to the year

2037.

To turn off the power

Turn the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

To reset the date and time

Select (HOME) t (SETTINGS)

t [CLOCK/ LANG] t [CLOCK SET],

and set the date and time.

b Notes

• If you do not use your camcorder for about 3

• It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be

, the built-in rechargeable battery gets

months

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. 107).

ready to shoot after the power is turned on. You cannot operate your camcorder during this time.

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Touch (HOME)

(SETTINGS)

t[ LANGUAGE SET], then

LANG]

select the desired language.

t[CLOCK/

Step 4: Preparing for recording

LCD panel

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

190 degrees to the

290 degrees

(max.)

2180 degrees (max.)

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

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 image will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold DISP/ BATT INFO for a few seconds until disappears.

camcorder

DISP/BATT INFO

• The information is displayed or hidden (display

y no display) each time you press DISP BATT/INFO.

Viewfinder

You can view images using the viewfinder to avoid wearing down the battery, or when the image seen on the LCD screen is poor.

Viewfinder

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the image becomes clear.

z Tips

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder

backlight by selecting (SETTINGS) t [SOUND/DISP SET] t [VF B.LIGHT] on the HOME MENU (p. 71).

Getting Started

b Notes

• Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame when you open or adjust the LCD panel.

z Tips

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

• On the HOME MENU, touch (SETTINGS) t [SOUND/DISP SET] t [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 70) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

Step 5: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo”

Disc

A new 8 cm DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVDR, or DVD+R DL is required for recording (p. 12).

b Notes

• Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc

beforehand, using a soft cloth (p.102).

1 Check that the power of your

camcorder is on.

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

2 Turn the disc cover OPEN switch

in the direction of the arrow (OPEN B).

[PREPARING TO OPEN] appears on the LCD screen.

The disc cover slightly opens automatically.

Disc cover OPEN switch

Pickup lens

When the disc cover opens slightly, open it further.

ACCESS lamp (Disc)

3 Set the disc with the recording

side facing your camcorder, then press the center of the disc until it clicks.

4 Close the disc cover.

[DISC ACCESS] appears on the LCD screen.

It may take some time for the camcorder to recognize the disc.

x DVD-RW/DVD+RW

A window appears to ask whether you will use [DISC SELECT GUIDE]. Using [DISC SELECT GUIDE] lets you format the disc by following the guidance on the screen. If you do not want to use it, proceed to step 5.

x DVD-R/DVD+R DL

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

5 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

x DVD-RW

Select the recording format, [VIDEO] or [VR] (p. 12), then touch

x DVD+RW

Select the aspect ratio of the movie, [16:9 WIDE] or [4:3], then touch

6 Touch [YES].

7 Touch when [Completed.] is

displayed.

When the formatting is completed, you can start recording on the disc.

z Tips

• When you use a DVD-RW while the Easy Handycam operation (p. 29) is set, the recording format is fixed to VIDEO mode.

To remove the disc

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 to open the disc

cover.

2 Press the disc holder in the center of the

disc compartment, and remove the disc by holding the edge.

• If you catch the belt when closing the disc cover, it may cause your camcorder to

malfunction.

• Do not touch the disc with the recording side or pickup lens (p.107). 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.

• Do not disconnect the power sources during formatting.

• Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder:

– while the ACCESS lamp is on – while the ACCESS lamp is flashing – while [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.

z Tips

• 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.

• To delete all of the previously recorded images from a DVD-RW/DVD+RW, then to use it again to record new images, see “Deleting all scenes on the disc (Formatting)” on page 59.

• You can check the right disc using [DISC SELECT GUIDE] on the HOME MENU (page

58).

Getting Started

b Notes

• 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.

“Memory Stick Duo”

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

z Tips

• The number of recordable images vary, depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 66.

(p. 102).

Continued ,

Step 5: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” (Continued)

1 Open the LCD panel.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”

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

Access lamp (“Memory Stick Duo”)

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

Lightly push the "Memory Stick Duo" in once.

b Notes

• 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.

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

• When inserting or ejecting the "Memory Stick Duo," be careful with the "Memory Stick Duo" from popping out and dropping.

Recording/Playback

Recording and playing back with ease (Easy Handycam)

Easy Handycam operation makes nearly all settings automatic so that you can perform recording or playing back operation without detailed settings. It also makes screen font size larger for easy viewing.

Movies

1 Turn the POWER

switch A until the

(Movie) lamp

turns on.

2 Press EASY B.

appears on the LCD screen.

3 Press START/STOP C or D to

start recording*.

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), turn it while pressing the green button.

Still Images

1 Turn the POWER

switch A until the

(Still) lamp

turns on.

2 Press EASY B.

appears on the LCD screen.

3 Press PHOTO E to record a still

image**.

Recording/Playback

[STBY]t[REC]

To stop recording, press START/STOP again.

***Movies are recorded in the [SP] recording mode.

Still images are recorded with the [FINE] quality on the "Memory Stick Duo."

Press PHOTO

E lightly to

adjust the focus.

FlashingtLights up

Press PHOTO

E fully to

record the still image.

Continued ,

Recording and playing back with ease (Easy Handycam) (Continued)

Viewing recorded movies/still images

1 Turn the POWER switch A to turn on your camcorder.

2 Press (VIEW IMAGES) F (or G).

The VISUAL INDEX screen appears on the LCD screen. (It may take some time to display the VISUAL INDEX screen.)

Returns to the recording screen

Previous 6 images

Next 6 images

Returns to the recording screen

Displays the movies

Displays the still images

Disc type

Appears with the image on each of the tab that was lastly played back/recorded (B for the still image).

3 Start playing back.

Movies:

Touch , then touch the movie you want to view.

Return (to the VISUAL INDEX screen)

Beginning of the scene/ previous scene

Stop (go to the VISUAL INDEX screen)

Toggles Play or Pause as you touch

Next scene

Reverse/ Forward

+ 94 hidden pages