Sony DCR-DVD910 User Manual

3-285-369-11(1)

Digital Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

DCR-DVD910

Enjoying with Your

Camcorder

Getting Started 19

Recording/Playback 31

Editing 47

Utilizing Media 61

Customizing Your

Camcorder

Performing with Your

Computer

Troubleshooting 96

Additional

Information

Quick

Reference

Spanish Quick Guide/

Guía rápida en español

110

123

134

Additional information on this product and answers

to frequently asked questions can be found at our

Customer Support Website.

http://www.sony.net/

Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)

-free vegetable oil based ink.

Printed in Japan

WARNING

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

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

For your protection, please read these safety instructions completely before operating the appliance, and keep this manual for future reference. Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and instructions on the appliance, or the one described in the operating instructions and adhere to them.

Use

Power Sources

This set should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of electrical power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. For those sets designed to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.

Polarization

This set may be equipped with a polarized ac power cord plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other).

This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to have a suitable outlet installed. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug by forcing it in.

Overloading

Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or convenience receptacles beyond their capacity, since this can result in fire or electric shock.

Object and Liquid Entry

Never push objects of any kind into the set through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the set.

Attachments

Do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer, as they may cause hazards.

Cleaning

Unplug the set from the wall outlet before cleaning or polishing it. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a cloth lightly dampened with water for cleaning the exterior of the set.

outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the set due to lightning and power-line surges.

Service

Installation

Water and Moisture

Do not use power-line operated sets near water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.

Power-Cord Protection

Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to the plugs, receptacles, and the point where the cord exits from the appliance.

Accessories

Do not place the set on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The set may fall, causing serious injury to a child or an adult, and serious damage to the set. Use only a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer.

Ventilation

The slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for necessary ventilation. To ensure reliable operation of the set, and to protect it from overheating, these slots and openings must never be blocked or covered.

– Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth

or other materials.

– Never block the slots and openings by placing

the set on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

– Never place the set in a confined space, such as

a bookcase, or built-in cabinet, unless proper ventilation is provided.

– Do not place the set near or over a radiator or

heat register, or where it is exposed to direct sunlight.

Lightning

For added protection for this set during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall

Damage Requiring Service

Unplug the set from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

– When the power cord or plug is damaged or

frayed.

– If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen

into the set. – If the set has been exposed to rain or water. – If the set has been subject to excessive shock by

being dropped, or the cabinet has been

damaged. – If the set does not operate normally when

following the operating instructions. Adjust

only those controls that are specified in the

operating instructions. Improper adjustment of

other controls may result in damage and will

often require extensive work by a qualified

technician to restore the set to normal operation. – When the set exhibits a distinct change in

performance – this indicates a need for service.

Servicing

Do not attempt to service the set yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.

Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Replacement parts

When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer that have the same characteristics as the original parts.

Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

Safety Check

Upon completion of any service or repairs to the set, ask the service technician to perform routine safety checks (as specified by the manufacturer) to determine that the set is in safe operating condition.

Read this before operating your camcorder

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

WARNING

Do not expose the batteries to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.

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.

Owner’s Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call your Sony dealer regarding this product.

Model No. DCR-DVD910 Serial No. Model No. ACSerial No.

For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA

RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve our

environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you.

For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1800-822- 8837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.

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-DVD910 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.

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 t he equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

For the State of California, USA only

Perchlorate Material - special handling may apply, See

www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate

Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery contains perchlorate.

Notes on use

Your camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operations guides.

– “Operating Guide” (This manual) – “PMB Guide” for using your camcorder

with a computer connected (stored on the supplied CD-ROM) (p. 92)

* Depending on the place you purchase, the disc

has mark.

b Note

• Using a disc other than the above may cause the

unsatisfactory recording/playback or you may

not be able to remove the disc from your

camcorder.

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

• For recording movies, it is recommended

that you use a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

of 512 MB or larger marked with:

– (“Memory Stick

PRO Duo”)*

– (“Memory Stick

PRO-HG Duo”)

* You can use a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

marked either with “Mark2” or without.

• See page 30 for the recordable time of a

“Memory Stick PRO Duo.”

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

Types of the disc you can use in your camcorder

You can use the following discs only. – 8cm DVD-RW – 8cm DVD+RW – 8cm DVD-R – 8cm DVD+R DL

Use the discs with marks listed below. See page 11 for details.

For reliability and durability of recording/ playback, we recommend that you use Sony discs or discs with a CAMERA) mark for your camcorder.

*(for VIDEO

“Memory Stick” (You cannot use it in your camcorder.)

• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and “Memory

Stick PRO-HG Duo” are both referred to

as “Memory Stick PRO Duo” in this

manual.

• You cannot use any type of memory card

other than those mentioned above.

• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” can be used

only with “Memory Stick PRO”

compatible equipment.

Continued ,

Read this before operating your camcorder (Continued)

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

• When using a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” with “Memory Stick” compatible equipment, be sure to insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo adaptor.

Using the camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder LCD screen

Battery

• The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See “About handling of your camcorder” (p. 116).

• To prevent media from being broken or recorded images from being lost, do not do the following when either of the

(Movie)/ (Still) lamps (p. 23) or the ACCESS/access lamps (p. 27, 29) are on:

– to remove the battery pack or AC

Adaptor from the camcorder

– to apply mechanical shock or vibration to

the camcorder

– to remove the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

from the camcorder

• When connecting your camcorder to another device with a 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 effective. 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. Use a trial recording.

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

• TV color systems differ depending on the countries/regions. To view your

DVD-RW/DVD+RW for

recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC 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.

• If you repeat recording/deleting images for a long time, fragmentation of data occurs on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” Images cannot be saved or recorded. In such a case, save your images on another type of media first (p. 51, 57), and then format the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” (p. 67).

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

About the marks used in this manual

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

Disc

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 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. 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 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.

• Discs in this manual refers to 8cm DVD discs.

• In this manual, a disc and a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” are called the media.

“Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Read this before operating your

camcorder .................................... 4

Table of Contents ........................... 8

Subject examples and solutions ... 10

Enjoying with Your Camcorder

Media for your camcorder ............ 11

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: Making adjustments before

recording .................................... 25

Step 5: Selecting media for movies

.................................................... 26

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory

Stick PRO Duo” .......................... 27

Recording/Playback

Recording and playing back with ease

(Easy Handycam operation) ....... 31

Recording ..................................... 34

Zooming ...................................... 36

Recording sound with more

presence (5.1ch surround

recording) ................................. 36

Starting to shoot quickly (QUICK ON)

................................................... 37

Recording high quality still images

during movie recording (Dual Rec)

................................................... 37

Recording in dark places

(NightShot) ................................ 37

Adjusting the exposure for backlit

subjects .................................... 38

Recording in mirror mode ........... 38

Recording the fast action in slow-

motion (SMTH SLW REC) ......... 38

Playback .......................................40

Searching for scenes by pinpoint

(Film Roll Index) ........................ 42

Searching for desired scenes by

face (Face Index) ...................... 42

Searching for desired images by

date (Date Index) ...................... 43

Using PB zoom ............................ 43

Playing back a series of still images

(Slide show) .............................. 44

Playing the images on a TV ......... 45

Editing

(OTHERS) category ...............47

Deleting images ............................47

Capturing a still image from a movie

.....................................................50

Dubbing movies to the media within

your camcorder ...........................51

Dividing movies ............................52

Creating the Playlist .....................53

Dubbing movies to VCR or DVD/HDD

recorders ....................................57

Printing still images (PictBridge

compliant printer) ........................59

Utilizing Media

(MANAGE MEDIA) category

.....................................................61

Making the disc compatible with

playback on other devices

(Finalizing) ..................................62

Playing a disc on other devices .... 65

Checking media information .........66

Formatting media ..........................66

Recording additional movies after

finalizing ......................................68

Finding the right disc (DISC SELECT

GUIDE) .......................................70

Repairing the image database file 70

Performing with Your Computer

What you can do with Windows

computer .....................................92

Troubleshooting

Customizing Your Camcorder

What you can do with the

(SETTINGS) category of the

HOME MENU ........................72

Using the HOME MENU .............. 72

List of the (SETTINGS) category

items ......................................... 72

MOVIE SETTINGS .......................74

(Items for recording movies)

PHOTO SETTINGS ......................78

(Items for recording still images)

VIEW IMAGES SET .....................79

(Items to customize the display)

SOUND/DISP SET .......................81

(Items to adjust sound and the screen)

OUTPUT SETTINGS ....................82

(Items for when connecting other devices)

CLOCK/ LANG ..........................83

(Items to set clock and language)

GENERAL SET ............................83

(Other setup items)

Activating functions using the

OPTION MENU ......................85

Using the OPTION MENU ........... 85

Recording items on the OPTION

MENU ....................................... 86

Viewing items on the OPTION

MENU ....................................... 86

Functions set in the OPTION

MENU .........................................87

Troubleshooting ............................96

Warning indicators and messages

...................................................105

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad ....110

File/folder structure on a “Memory

Stick PRO Duo” .........................112

Maintenance and precautions .....113

About the disc ........................... 113

About the “Memory Stick” ......... 114

About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery

pack ........................................ 115

About handling of your camcorder

................................................. 116

Specifications ..............................120

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls ......123

Indicators displayed during recording/

playback ....................................127

Glossary ......................................129

Index ...........................................130

Subject examples and solutions

Shooting

Checking your golf swing

Getting a good shot of a ski slope or beach

B SMTH SLW REC ....................... 38 B BACK LIGHT....................................38

B BEACH ............................................89

B SNOW .............................................89

Capturing still images during movie recording

B Dual Rec ................................... 37 B SPOTLIGHT.....................................89

Flowers in closeup

B PORTRAIT...................................... 89

B FOCUS............................................ 87

B TELE MACRO ................................. 87

Focusing on the dog on the left

A child on the stage under a spot light

Fireworks with all its splendor

B FIREWORKS....................................88

B FOCUS ............................................87

A sleeping child under dim light

side of the screen

B FOCUS............................................ 87

B SPOT FOCUS.................................. 87

B NightShot........................................37

B COLOR SLOW SHTR.......................90

Enjoying with Your Camcorder

Media for your camcorder

Plural media for recording images

You can select desired media for recording/playback/editing movies from a disc or a “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” You can select either of a disc or a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” on [MOVIE MEDIA SET] (p. 26). Using the [MOVIE DUB] function on the camcorder, you can dub movies recorded on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” to a disc without connecting another device (p. 51).

z Tips

• Discs you can use with your camcorder are 8cm DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD-R and DVD+R DL discs.

• See page 5 for the types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder.

• Still images are recorded only on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”

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 movie can be deleted.

A recording format that enables editing with your camcorde r (deleting and rearranging the order of images). A finalized disc can be played back in DVD devices that support VR mode. Refer to the instruction manual of your DVD device to see whether it supports the VR mode of DVD-RW.

VIDEO mode and VR mode Glossary (p. 129)

Enjoying with Your Camcorder

Continued ,

Media for your camcorder (Continued)

Disc features

Figures in parentheses ( ) indicate reference pages.

Disc types and symbols

Symbols used in this manual

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

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

Deleting the most recent movie (48) Deleting or editing movie on your camcorder (47) – z –––

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

Finalizing required to play on other devices (62)

Making longer recordings on a side of a disc

* Formatting deletes all images and returns the recording media to its original empty state (p. 66). Even

when using a new disc, format it with your camcorder (p. 27).

** Finalizing 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.

(27)

(66)

zz – zz

zzz ––

–** zz

––––z

Recording time of movies

Figures in the table are the approximate recording time in minutes on one side of a disc. The recordable time on the acceptable media varies depending on media type and the [REC MODE] (p. 74) setting.

Media type

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.

• You can check the recordable time with [MEDIA INFO] (p. 66).

• When you use a double-sided disc, you can record images on both sides (p. 113).

• See page 30 for the recordable time on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”

Figures in ( ) are the minimum recording time.

20 (18) 35 (32)

30 (18) 55 (32)

60 (44) 110 (80)

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

Enjoying with Your Camcorder

Using your camcorder

1Selecting media (p. 26)

You can select media for movies. In the case of recording on a disc, 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

*Select the recording format and format the disc on your camcorder (p. 27).

zTips

• You can select the disc from [DISC SELECT GUIDE] (p. 70).

2Recording images (p. 34)

3Editing/Saving images

The available functions depend on the selected media.

x Dubbing movies to another type of media within your camcorder (p. 51)

x Dubbing movies to other devices (p. 57)

x Editing on a computer (p. 92)

Using the supplied application software “Picture Motion Browser,” you can import images to a computer, and save them on a disc.

4Viewing on other devices

x Viewing images on a TV (p. 45)

You can view the images recorded and edited on your camcorder on the connected TV.

x Playing the disc on other devices (p. 65)

To play a disc recorded on your camcorder on other devices, you need to finalize the disc first.

bNotes

• 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.

Enjoying with Your Camcorder

Like commercially sold 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 62.

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

Unfinalizing allows you to add movies (p. 68).

Movies can be added without unfinalizing.

Playback compatibility

Playback compatibility with all DVD devices is not guaranteed. Refer to t he instruction 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)

Power cord (mains lead) (1) (p. 20)

A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 45, 57)

USB cable (1) (p. 59)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 126)

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

CD-ROM “Handycam Application Software” (1) (p. 92)

– Picture Motion Browser (Software) –PMB Guide

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Getting Started

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

POWER switch

Battery

Jack cover

DC plug

You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) (p. 115) after attaching it to your camcorder.

b Notes

• Your camcorder operates only with “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 Align the terminals of the battery

pack and your camcorder (1), then attach the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks (2).

DC IN jack

CHG (charge) lamp

To the wall outlet (wall socket)

Power cord (mains lead)

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.

4 Connect the power cord (mains

lead) to the AC Adaptor and the wall outlet (wall socket).

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

5 The CHG (charge) lamp turns off

when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack.

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack of your camcorder.

b Notes

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

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn the POWER switch to OFF

(CHG).

2 Press and hold the BATT (battery)

release button and remove the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

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)/ACCESS lamp (p. 27)/

access lamp (p. 29) are turned off.

• When you store the battery pack, fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (p. 115).

To use a power source from a wall outlet (wall socket)

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

Getting Started

Continued ,

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

Recording time

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

When recording on a disc

Continuous

Battery pack

recording time

NP-FH50 80 40

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH70 180 95

NP-FH100 405 210

When recording on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Battery pack

Continuous recording time

NP-FH50 90 45

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH70 195 100

NP-FH100 440 230

* Typical recording time shows the time when

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

b Notes

• See page 26 for selecting the media.

• All times measured with recording mode [SP]

under the following conditions: Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. Bottom: When recording with the viewfinder while the LCD panel is closed.

Typical recording time*

85 45 110 55 115 60

190 100

430 225

Typical recording time*

100 50 120 60 130 65

215 110

485 250

Playing time

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

When playing a disc

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

NP-FH50 110 125 NP-FH60

(supplied) NP-FH70 235 270 NP-FH100 535 600

When playing a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

NP-FH50 130 140 NP-FH60

(supplied) NP-FH70 280 300 NP-FH100 625 680

* When the LCD backlight is on.

b Notes

• See page 26 for selecting the media.

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)/

ACCESS lamp (p. 27)/access lamp (p. 29).

/CHG (charge) lamp flashes during

•The 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 power cord (mains lead) is disconnected from the wall outlet (wall socket).

LCD panel closed

145 165

LCD panel closed

170 190

• 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 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 outlet (wall socket) when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet (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 source (mains) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet (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.

Touch the button on the LCD screen.

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

Go to step 3 when you turn on your camcorder for the first time.

Getting Started

2 Touch (HOME) t

(SETTINGS) t [CLOCK/

LANG] t [CLOCK SET].

The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.

Continued ,

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

To turn off the power

Turn the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

b Notes

3 Select the desired geographical

area with / , then touch [NEXT].

4 Set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME],

then touch [NEXT].

5 Set [Y] (year) with / .

6 Select [M] with / , then set

the month with / .

• If you do not use your camcorder for about 3

• It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be

• The lens cover opens automatically when the

• In the default setting, the power turns off

z Tips

• The date and time does not appear during

• See page 111 for information concerning

• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work

, 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 built-in rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 119).

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

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

automatically if you leave your camcorder unoperated for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 84).

recording, but they are automatically recorded on the media, and can be displayed during playback ([DATA CODE], p. 79).

“World time difference.”

correctly, adjust the touch panel ([CALIBRATION], p. 118).

Changing the language setting

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

the same way, then touch [NEXT].

8 Make sure that the clock is

correctly set, then touch .

The clock starts. You can set any year up to the year

2037. For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM.

For midday, set it to 12:00 PM.

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

t[CLOCK/ LANG] t[ LANGUAGE SET], then select the

desired language.

t (SETTINGS)

Step 4: Making adjustments before recording

Adjusting the 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.

b Notes

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

camcorder

DISP/BATT INFO

• The information is displayed or hidden (display y no display) each time you press DISP BATT/INFO.

Adjusting the 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. Pull out and look into the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder to your eyesight.

Viewfinder

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the image becomes clear.

z Tips

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight by touching (HOME)

t (SETTINGS) t [SOUND/DISP SET] t [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 81).

Fastening the grip belt

Adjust and fasten the grip belt as illustrated, and hold your camcorder properly.

Getting Started

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.

• Touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [SOUND/DISP SET] t [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 81), and adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

Step 5: Selecting media for movies

You can set the media to be used for movies.You can select a disc or a “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”

b Notes

• You can record, play back, or edit images on the

selected media. When you record, play back, or edit images on other media, select media again.

1 Touch (HOME) t

(MANAGE MEDIA) t [MOVIE

MEDIA SET].

The movie media setting screen appears.

2 Touch the desired media.

3 Touch [YES].

4 When [Completed.] appears,

touch .

The movie media is changed.

To confirm the selected media

1 Slide the POWER switch to turn on the

(Movie) lamp.

2 Confirm the media icon displayed at the

upper right corner of the screen.

Media icon

Disc (The icon differs depending on the disc type (p. 12).)

“Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Inserting a disc

When you select [DISC] in “Step 5,” a new 8 cm DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD-R, or DVD+R DL is required (p. 12).

b Notes

• Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc beforehand, using a soft cloth (p. 114).

1 Check that the power of your

camcorder is on.

2 Slide the disc cover OPEN switch

in the direction of the arrow (OPEN l).

[PREPARING TO OPEN] appears on the screen. The disc cover slightly opens automatically.

ACCESS lamp (Disc)

Disc cover OPEN switch

Pickup lens

When the disc cover opens slightly, open it further.

3 Set the disc with the recording

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

Getting Started

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

4 Close the disc cover.

[DISC ACCESS] appears on the screen. It may take some time for the camcorder

to recognize the disc.

x DVD-RW/DVD+RW

A screen 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 screen. You do not need to proceed to steps after step 5.

Continued ,

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” (Continued)

b Notes

5 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

x DVD-RW

Select the recording format, [VIDEO] or [VR] (p. 11), then touch

x DVD+RW

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

6 Touch [YES].

7 When [Completed.] is displayed,

touch .

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. 31) 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.

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

• If you catch the grip 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. 118). 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 while formatting a disc.

• Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder since your camcorder is reading/ writing on the disc:

– 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 recorded contents.

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

z Tips

• You can insert or 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 “Formatting media” (p. 66).

• You can check the right disc using [DISC SELECT GUIDE] on the HOME MENU (p. 70).

Inserting a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

See page 5 on the “Memory Stick” you can use with your camcorder.

z Tips

• If you record only still images on the “Memory

Stick PRO Duo,” operations after step 3 are unnecessary.

1 Open the LCD panel.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick PRO

Duo.”

1 Open the Memory Stick Duo cover in

the direction of the arrow.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

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

3 Close the Memory Stick Duo cover.

Getting Started

The [Create a new Image Database File.] screen appears on the LCD screen when you insert a new “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”

4 Touch [YES].

Access lamp

Face the b mark towards the LCD screen.

3 If you select [MEMORY STICK] in

“Step 5” for movie recording, slide the POWER switch repeatedly until the (Movie) lamp lights up.

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

To remove the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Open the LCD panel and Memory Stick Duo cover. Lightly push the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” in once, then slide it out of the slot.

b Notes

• To prevent media from being broken or recorded images from being lost, do not do the following when the access lamp ( p. 29) is on:

– to remove the battery pack or AC Adaptor

from the camcorder

– to apply mechanical shock or vibration to the

camcorder

Continued ,

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” (Continued)

– to remove the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

from the camcorder

• Do not open the Memory Stick Duo cover during recording.

• Inserting a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” forcibly in the wrong direction may cause a malfunction to the “Memory Stick PRO Duo,” Memory Stick Duo slot, or image data.

• If [Failed to create a new Image Database File. It may be possible that there is not enough free space.] is displayed in step 4, format the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” (p. 67). All recorded data on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” will be deleted when you format.

• Do not pinch and remove the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” forcibly. It may cause a malfunction.

Recording time of movies on a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Figures in the table are approximate recording time in minutes of “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” Figures in ( ) are minimum recording time.

Recording mode

512MB 1GB 2GB 4GB 8GB

9M (HQ)

(high

quality)

6 (5) 9 (5) 15 (10) 10 (10) 20 (10) 35 (25) 25 (25) 40 (25) 80 (50) 55 (50) 80 (50) 160 (105)

115 (100) 170 (100) 325 (215)

6M (SP)

(standard

quality)

3M (LP)

(long play)

b Notes

• Numbers in the table are of when using a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The recordable time varies depending on the recording conditions, the type of “Memory Stick,” or the [REC MODE] setting (p. 74).

• When the recordable time is less than 5 minutes,

appears.

z Tips

• See page 78 for the recordable numbers of still images.

+ 121 hidden pages