Sony DCR-HC48 Operating Instruction

Digital Video Camera Recorder

2-319-511-11(1)

Getting Started 11

Operating Guide

DCR-HC48

Recording/

Playback

Using the Menu 34

Dubbing/Editing 55

Using a Computer 63

Troubleshooting 67

Additional Information 77

Quick Reference 90

Spanish Quick Guide/

Guía rápida en español

100

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.

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.

Continued ,

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS (Continued)

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

Service

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.

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.

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.

Read this first

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

CAUTION

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

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 1-800-8228837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/

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

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.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

For customers in the U.S.A.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800222-SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters only.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-HC48 Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA

92127 U.S.A. Telephone Number: 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.

Note

DCR-HC48 is to be used with the Handycam Station Model DCRA-C155 and AC Adaptor Model AC-L200/L200B.

Owner’s Record

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

Model No. DCR-HC48 Serial No. Model No. ACNo.

CAUTION

You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

Continued ,

Read this first (Continued)

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 w ith the

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

For the 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 manuals

– “Operating Guide” (This manual) – “First Step Guide” for connecting the

camcorder to a computer and using the

supplied software (stored on the supplied

CD-ROM)

Type of cassette you can use in your camcorder

You can use mini DV cassettes marked with . Your camcorder is not compatible with the Cassette Memory function (p. 78).

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

You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

(p. 79).

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

“Memory Stick” (You cannot use with 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.

• 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 Battery pack

LCD panel

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.

• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof or waterproof. See “On use and care” (p. 82).

• Before connecting your camcorder to another device with a USB or i.LINK cable, be sure to insert the connector plug the correct way, and not forcibly, to avoid damaging the terminal or cause a malfunction of your camcorder.

• Connect the A/V connecting cable to the A/V OUT jack of the Handycam Station when using your camcorder attached to the Handycam Station to output audio and video signals.

• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the Handycam Station holding both the Handycam Station and the DC plug.

• Be sure to slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) when you insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station or remove the camcorder from it.

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 pictures of the sun only in low light conditions, such as at dusk.

About changing the 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. 16).

Continued ,

Read this first (Continued)

On recording

• Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound are recorded without any problems.

• 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 country/region. To view your recordings on a TV, you need a 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.

About this manual

• The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used in this manual for illustration purposes are captured using a digital still camera, and therefore may appear different.

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

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= Modulation Transfer Function The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS .........3

Read this first ..................................5

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

.....................................................11

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

.....................................................12

Step 3: Turning the power on and

setting the date and time ............15

Changing the language setting ... 16

Step 4: Making setting adjustments

before recording ..........................17

Step 5: Inserting a tape or a “Memory

Stick Duo” ...................................18

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback

(Easy Handycam) .......................20

Recording .....................................22

Zooming ...................................... 24

Recording in dark places

(NightShot plus) ........................ 24

Adjusting the exposure for backlit

subjects .................................... 25

Recording in mirror mode ........... 25

Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or

4:3) of the recording picture ..... 25

Playback .......................................26

Using PB zoom ........................... 28

Using the guide functions

(USAGE GUIDE) ........................28

Searching for the starting point ..... 29

Searching for the last scene of the

most recent recording

(END SEARCH) ........................ 29

Searching manually

(EDIT SEARCH) ........................ 30

Reviewing the most recently

recorded scenes

(Rec review) ............................. 30

Searching quickly for a desired

scene (Zero set memory) ......... 30

Searching for a scene by date of

recording (Date search) ........... 31

Playing the picture on a TV ...........32

Using the Menu

Using the menu items .......... 34

Menu items ...................................35

CAMERA SET menu ...............37

Settings to adjust your camcorder to

the recording conditions

MEMORY SET menu .............42

Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo”

PICT.APPLI. menu ................44

Special effects on pictures or

additional functions on recording/ playback

EDIT/PLAY menu ..................48

Settings for editing or playing back in

various modes

STANDARD SET menu .........50

Settings while recording on a tape or

other basic settings

TIME/LANGU. menu ..............53

Customizing Personal Menu .........53

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD

recorders .....................................55

Recording pictures from a TV or VCR

etc. ..............................................57

Dubbing pictures from a tape to a

“Memory Stick Duo” ....................59

Deleting recorded pictures from the

“Memory Stick Duo” ....................59

Marking images on the “Memory Stick

Duo” with specific information

(Print mark/Image protection) .....60

Printing recorded images

(PictBridge compliant printer) ......61

Continued ,

Using a Computer

What you can do with Windows

computer .................................... 63

Installing the “First Step Guide” and

software ...................................... 64

Viewing “First Step Guide” ........... 66

Using a Macintosh computer ........ 66

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting ........................... 67

Warning indicators and messages

.................................................... 74

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad ...... 77

Maintenance and precautions ...... 78

Usable cassette tapes ................ 78

About the “Memory Stick” ........... 79

About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery

pack .......................................... 80

About i.LINK ................................ 81

On using your camcorder ........... 82

Specifications ............................... 86

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls ....... 90

Indicators displayed during recording/

playback ..................................... 94

Index ............................................ 97

Spanish Quick Guide/Guía rápida en español 100

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.

AC Adaptor (1) (p. 12)

Power cord (1) (p. 12)

Handycam Station (1) (p. 12, 93)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 93)

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH40 (1) (p. 12, 80)

CD-ROM “Handycam Application Software” (1) (p. 63)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Getting Started

A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 32, 55)

USB cable (1) (p. 61)

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

Battery pack

DC IN jack

Power cord

To the wall outlet

You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) (p. 80) after attaching it to your camcorder.

b Notes

• You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the H series to your camcorder.

1 Align the terminals of the battery

pack and your camcorder (1), then attach the battery pack and click it into place (2).

POWER

DC plug

switch

AC Adaptor

4 Connect the power cord to the AC

Adaptor and the wall outlet.

5 Insert the camcorder into the

Handycam Station securely, all the way to the bottom.

The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Remove your camcoder from the Handycam Station.

2 Slide the POWER switch to OFF

(CHG) (The default setting).

3 With the v mark on the DC plug

facing up, connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on the Handycam Station.

CHG (charge) lamp

b Notes

• When inserting the camcorder into the Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover.

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

To charge the battery pack using only the AC Adaptor

Turn off the power, then connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

POWER switch

With the v mark facing down

DC IN jack

DC plug

z Tips

• You can operate your camcorder connected to a power source such as a wall outlet as shown in the illustration. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case.

Open the jack cover

To remove your camcorder from the Handycam Station

Turn off the power, then remove the camcorder from the Handycam Station holding both your camcorder and the Handycam Station.

Getting Started

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn off the power, then press PUSH. 2 Remove the battery pack in the direction

of the arrow.

POWER switch

PUSH

When storing the battery pack

Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (p. 81).

Continued ,

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

To check the remaining battery (Battery Info)

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

DISP/BATT INFO button

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.)

90 99

Recording capacity (approx.)

You can check the remaining battery charge on the LCD screen.

Indicator Status

Sufficient power remaining Battery low, recording/

playback will stop soon. Replace the battery with a

fully charged one, or charge the battery.

Charging time

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

Battery pack Charging time

NP-FH40 (supplied) 125 NP-FH50 135 NP-FH70 170 NP-FH100 390

Recording time

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

Battery pack

NP-FH40 (supplied)

NP-FH50 115

NP-FH70 245

NP-FH100 565

* Typical recording time shows the time when

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

b Notes

• All times measured under the following conditions: Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off. Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the LCD panel closed.

Continuous recording time

100 110 110

130 130

280 280

635 635

Typical recording time*

50 55 55

55 65 65

120 140 140

280 315 315

Playing time

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

Battery pack

NP-FH40 (supplied)

NP-FH50 140 170

LCD panel opened*

LCD panel closed

120 150

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

LCD panel closed

NP-FH70 300 370 NP-FH100 695 845

* 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 the Battery Info (p. 14) 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 or the Handycam Station, even when the power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet.

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.

Getting Started

Touch the button on the LCD screen.

POWER switch

On the charging/recording/playback time

• Times measured with the camcorder at 25°C (77°F). (10°C - 30°C (50°F - 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 outlet when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet 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 (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor.

1 While pressing the green button,

slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow to turn on the respective lamp.

CAMERA-TAPE: To record on a tape. CAMERA-MEMORY: To record on a

“Memory Stick Duo.” PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.

The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.

CLOCK SET

DATE

2007

JANM1D12: 00

–:––:––

2 Set [Y] (year) with / , then

touch .

You can set any year up to the year

2079.

Continued ,

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

3 Set [M] (month), then touch

and repeat for [D] (day), hour and minute.

For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM. For midday, set it to 12:00 PM.

The clock starts.

To turn off the power

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

To reset the date and time

You can set the desired date and time by touching t [MENU] t

(TIME/LANGU.) t [CLOCK SET]

(p. 34).

b Notes

• 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. 85).

• At the time of purchase, the power is set to turn

off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 52).

z Tips

• The date and time are not displayed while

recording, but they are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback (see page 51 for [DATA CODE] (During Easy Handycam operation, you can set only [DATE/TIME])).

• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work

correctly, adjust the touch panel (CALIBRATION) (p. 84).

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Touch t [MENU] t

(TIME/LANGU.) t [LANGUAGE],

then select the desired language.

Step 4: Making setting adjustments before recording

Opening the lens cover

Slide the LENS COVER switch to OPEN.

After recording, set the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE, to close the lens cover.

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).

DISP/BATT INFO

180 degrees (max.)

90 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 where you want to save battery power. The recorded picture 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.

90 degrees to the camcorder

b Notes

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

z Tips

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

• See [LCD/VF SET] - [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 51) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

• Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the screen indicators (such as Battery Info) on or off.

The viewfinder

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

Viewfinder

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the picture is clear.

z Tips

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight by selecting [LCD/VF SET] - [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 51).

Getting Started

Continued ,

Step 4: Making setting adjustments before recording (Continued)

The grip belt

Fasten the grip belt and hold your camcorder correctly.

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

Cassette tape

You can use mini DV cassettes only (p. 78).

EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

OPEN/EJECT lever

Lid

The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up.

2 Insert a cassette with its window

facing outwards, then press

Push the center of the back

1 Slide and hold the OPEN/

of the cassette lightly.

Window

Cassette compartment

The cassette compartment

{DO NOT PUSH}

automatically slides back in.

b Notes

• Do not force the cassette

compartment closed by pressing the portion marked while it is sliding in. It may cause a malfunction.

3 Close the lid.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”

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

Access lamp

Getting Started

To eject the cassette

Open the lid following the same procedure as described in step 1 and remove the cassette.

z Tips

• The recordable time varies depending on [ REC MODE] (p. 50).

“Memory Stick Duo”

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

(p. 79).

1 Open the LCD panel.

With the v mark facing to the LCD screen

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

Lightly push in once and slide out the “Memory Stick Duo” alongside the camcorder body.

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 force 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.

• Do not remove the “Memory Stick Duo” forcibly with the fingers as it may be damaged.

• When inserting or ejecting the “Memory Stick Duo,” be careful that the “Memory Stick Duo” does not pop out and drop.

z Tips

• The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 42.

Recording/Playback

B A

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)

With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy viewing.

Open the lens cover (p. 17).

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

Movies

1 Slide the POWER

switch E to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.

2 Press EASY A.

EASY

appears on the

screen B.

3 Press REC START/STOP F (or

C) to start recording.*

REC

EASY

60min

MENUGUIDE

The indicator changes from [STBY] to [REC].

To stop recording, press REC START/ STOP again.

* Movies are recorded in SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette. ** Still images are recorded in [FINE] quality on a “Memory Stick Duo.”

Still images (4:3)

1 Slide the POWER

switch E to turn on the CAMERAMEMORY lamp.

2 Press EASY A.

EASY

appears on the

screen B.

3 Press PHOTO D to record.**

1.0M

60min

EASY

Press and hold lightly

Flashing t Lit

to adjust the focus.

MENUGUIDE

Press fully to record.

Playing back movies/still images

Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the buttons on the screen B as follows.

Movies

Touch , then touch

to start playback.

GUIDE

till images

Touch t /

to select a picture.

GUIDE

A GUIDE (p. 28) B Rewind/Fast forward C Stop D Play/Pause toggles

A GUIDE (p. 28) B Tape playback C Previous/Next D Delete (p. 59)

x To cancel Easy Handycam operation

Press EASY A again. disappears from the screen.

x Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam operation

Touch [MENU] to display adjustable menu settings. See page 34 for details on settings.

• Almost all the settings return to their defaults automatically (p. 35).

• is not displayed during Easy Handycam operation.

• Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add any effects or settings to the images.

x Unavailable buttons during Easy Handycam

During Easy Handycam operation, the following buttons are unavailable. [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation.] may appear if operations not available during Easy Handycam are attempted.

• BACK LIGHT button (p. 25)

• Pressing and holding DISP/BATT INFO button (p. 17)

• WIDE SELECT button (in the CAMERA-MEMORY mode) (p. 25)

• PHOTO button (in the CAMERA-TAPE mode) (p. 22)

Recording/Playback

Recording

pen the lens cover (p.17).

PHOTO

POWER switch

REC START/ STOP B

REC START/ STOP A

Recording movies

Movies are recorded on a tape.

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.

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

Press REC START/STOP A (or B

60min

To stop recording, press REC START/STOP again.

b Notes

• You cannot record movies onto a “Memory Stick Duo” using your camcorder.

z Tips

• While recording movies on a tape, or while in standby mode, you can record a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo” by pressing PHOTO fully. Still images will be fixed to image size [0.2M] in 16:9 screen or [VGA (0.3M)] in 4:3 screen (p. 42).

STBY REC

60min

P-MENUGUIDE P-MENUGUIDE

[STBY] [REC]

60min

Recording still images

Still images are recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.”

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp.

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

Press and hold PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.

min min

Beep

1.0M 1.0M

Shutter click

Recording/Playback

P-MENU P-MENUGUIDE

GUIDE

Flashing bLights up

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

To check the latest recording on a “Memory Stick Duo”

Touch . To delete the picture, touch t [YES].

z Tips

• See page 42 for details on the image quality, the image size or the number of recordable pictures.

Continued ,

Recording (Continued)

Zooming

You can magnify images up to 25 times the original size with the power zoom lever or the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.

Wider range of view:

(Wide angle)

Close view: (Telephoto)

Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.

b Notes

• [STEADYSHOT] may not reduce image blurring as desired when the power zoom lever is set to the T (Telephoto) side.

• Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom lever. If you move your finger off the power zoom lever, the operation sound of the power zoom lever may also be recorded.

• You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.

• The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.

z Tips

• You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 41) if you want to zoom to a level greater than 25 ×.

Recording in dark places (NightShot plus)

Infrared port

Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to ON. ( and [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] appears.)

b Notes

• The NightShot plus and Super NightShot plus functions use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 39) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• Do not use the NightShot plus and Super NightShot plus functions in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

z Tips

• To record an image brighter, use Super NightShot plus function (p. 40). To record an image more faithfully to the original colors, use Color Slow Shutter function (p. 40).

Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects

To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, press BACK LIGHT to display .. To cancel the back light function, press BACK LIGHT again.

Recording in mirror mode

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (2).

z Tips

• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the image will be normal when recorded.

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

WIDE SELECT POWER switch

Selecting the aspect ratio for movies

1 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA-

TAPE.

2 Press WIDE SELECT repeatedly to

select the desired screen aspect ratio.

z Tips

• Differences between 4:3 and 16:9 image views vary depending on the zoom position when recording.

• If you play back a picture on TV, set [TV TYPE] for playback in the aspect ratio of the TV (p. 33).

• When viewing pictures recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio with [TV TYPE] set to [4:3], pictures may appear rough depending on the subject (p. 33).

Selecting the aspect ratio for still images

1 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA-

MEMORY. The aspect ratio of the picture switches to 4:3.

2 Press WIDE SELECT to select the

desired screen aspect ratio.

b Notes

• Still images will be fixed to image size [0.7M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [1.0M] ( ).

z Tips

• For the number of recordable pictures, see page

42.

Recording/Playback

Playback

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

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

Playing movies

Touch , then touch to start playback.

Toggles Play or Pause as you touch*

60min

Stop** Rewind/Fast forward

* Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes. ** is displayed instead of when a “Memory Stick Duo” with recorded images is inserted and

a tape is not being played.

60min

GUIDE

P-MENU

To adjust the sound volume

Touch t [VOLUME], then / to adjust the volume.

z Tips

• If you cannot find [VOLUME] in , touch [MENU] (p. 34).

To search for a scene during playback

Touch and hold / during playback (Picture Search), or / while fast forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip Scan).

z Tips

• You can play back in various modes ([ VAR.SPD PB], p. 48).

Viewing still images

MEMORY PLAY

Touch .

The most recently recorded image is displayed.

1.0M

Switch the playback media*

Previous/Next Go to the index screen display

* is displayed on the tape playback screen.

MEMORY PLAY

GUIDE

P-MENU

To display pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” on the index screen

Touch . Touch one of the pictures to back to the single display mode.

A Previous/Next 6 pictures B The picture displayed before switching to the index screen.

To view pictures in other folders, touch t t [PB FOLDER], select a folder with

/ , then touch (p. 44).

Recording/Playback

Continued ,

Playback (Continued)

Using PB zoom

You can magnify the recorded picture from about 1.1 to 5 times the original size. Magnification can be adjusted with the power zoom lever or the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.

1 Play back the picture you want to

magnify.

2 Magnify the picture with T (Telephoto).

The screen is framed.

3 Touch the screen at the point you want

to display in the center of the displayed frame.

4 Adjust the magnification with W (Wide

angle)/T (Telephoto).

Using the guide functions (USAGE GUIDE)

You can easily select the desired setting screens by using the guide functions (USAGE GUIDE).

60min

Your camcorder has 3 guide functions as shown below.

SHOOT GUIDE:

USEFUL GUIDE:

DISP GUIDE:

1 Touch [GUIDE].

STBY

P-MENUGUIDE

Takes you to the setting screens related to recording.

Takes you to the setting screens related to the basic operations.

Enables you to check the meaning of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. See page 96 for details.

To cancel, touch [END].

b Notes

• You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.

2 Select the desired item.

e.g., to record night views Touch [SHOOT GUIDE] t [SELECT

SCENE] t / to display [To keep the mood of a night view].

3 Touch [SET].

The desired setting screen appears. Adjust the settings according to your

purpose.

Unavailable settings during Easy Handycam

During Easy Handycam operation, some items are unavailable. If an attempted setting is not available, but still desired, touch [SET] to display an on-screen instruction. Follow the instruction to cancel Easy Handycam operation and then select the setting.

z Tips

• If [SET] is not displayed in step 3, follow the instruction on the screen.

Searching for the starting point

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)

[END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape.

Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up (p. 22).

Touch t .

END SEARCH

EXECUTING

Touch here to cancel the operation.

The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished.

0:00:00160min

CANCEL

Recording/Playback

b Notes

• [END SEARCH] will not work correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.

z Tips

• You can also select [END SEARCH] from the menu. When the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights up, select the [END SEARCH] short-cut in Personal Menu (p. 34).

Continued ,

Searching for the starting point (Continued)

Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)

You can search for the start point to start the next recording while viewing the pictures on the screen. The sound is not played back during the search.

Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up (p. 22).

1 Touch .

0:00:00STBY60min

EDIT

2 Touch and hold (to go

backward)/ (to go forward) and release it at the point where you want the recording to start.

Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)

You can view about 2 seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped the tape.

Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up (p. 22).

The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to standby.

Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)

Make sure that the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights up (p. 26).

mREW PLAY

STOP DISPLAY

ZERO SET MEMORY

1 During playback, press ZERO

SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at a point you want to locate later on.

The tape counter is reset to “0:00:00” and appears on the screen.

0:00:006 0min

GUIDE

P-MENU

Touch t .

If the tape counter is not displayed, press DISPLAY.

0:00:00STBY60min

2 Press STOP when you want to

stop playback.

EDIT

+ 86 hidden pages