Sony DCR-TRV730, DCR-TRV828, DCR-TRV830 Operating Instruction

3-066-521-12 (1)

Digital

Video Camera

Recorder

Operating Instructions

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

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-TRV			Model No. AC-
Serial No.			Serial No.

TM

SERIES

DCR-TRV830

DCR-TRV730/TRV828/TRV830

©2001 Sony Corporation

Welcome!

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Digital Handycam camcorder. With your Digital Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Digital Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come.

WARNING

To prevent 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.

Never expose the battery pack to temperatures above 60°C (140°F) such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight.

2

For the customers in the

U.S.A. and CANADA

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY.

LITHIUM ION BATTERY.

DISPOSE OF PROPERLY.

You can return your unwanted lithium ion batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service Center.

Note: In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited.

For the Sony Service Center nearest you call 1-800-222-SONY (United States only)

For the Sony Factory Service Center nearest you call 416-499-SONY (Canada only)

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion battery.

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-TRV730, DCR-
	TRV828, DCR-TRV830

Responsible Party: Sony Electronics lnc.

Address:	680 Kinderkamack
	Road, Oradell, NJ
	07649 U.S.A
Telephone No.:	201-930-6972

This device complies with Part15 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.

“Memory Stick”

This device complies with Part15 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:

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 shielded interface cable supplied with this equipment must be used with this equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

For customers in CANADA

CAUTION

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

“Memory Stick”

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

3

Main Features

Taking moving or still images, and playing them back

•Recording a picture (p. 19) •Recording a still image on a tape (p. 33) •Playing back a tape (p. 27)

•Recording still images or moving pictures on “Memory Stick” (p. 97, 104) •Viewing a still image or a moving picture recorded on “Memory Stick” (p. 117, 120)

Capturing images on your computer

•Using with analog video unit and your computer (p. 73)

•Viewing still images or moving pictures recorded on “Memory Stick” using USB cable (p. 122)

Other uses

Functions to adjust exposure in the recording mode

•Back light (p. 23)

•NightShot/Super NightShot (p. 23)

•PROGRAM AE (p. 43)

•Adjusting the exposure manually (p. 45)

Functions to give images more impact

•Digital zoom [MENU] (p. 78) The default setting is set to OFF. (To zoom greater than 18×, select the digital zoom power in D ZOOM in the menu settings.)

•Digital program editing (p. 62)

•Fader (p. 37)

•Picture effect (p. 39)

•Digital effect (p. 40)

•Title (p. 47, 49)

•MEMORY MIX (p. 110)

Functions to give a natural appearance to your recordings

•END SEARCH/EDITSEARCH/Rec Review (p. 26)

•Manual focus (p. 46)

Functions to use after recording

•Zero set memory (p. 55)

•HiFi SOUND [MENU] (p. 78)

•SUPER LASER LINK (p. 32)

•Tape PB ZOOM (p. 54)/Memory PB ZOOM (p. 129)

4

Table of contents

Main Features ...................................................	4
Quick Start Guide .................................	6
Getting started
Using this manual ............................................	8
Checking supplied accessories .....................	10
Step 1 Preparing the power supply ............	11
Installing the battery pack .....................	11
Charging the battery pack .....................	12
Connecting to a wall outlet ...................	16
Step 2 Setting the date and time .................	17
Step 3 Inserting a cassette ............................	18
Recording – Basics
Recording a picture ........................................	19
Shooting backlit subjects
– BACK LIGHT ...............................	23
Shooting in the dark
– NightShot/Super NightShot ......	23
Self-timer recording ...............................	25
Checking the recording – END SEARCH/
EDITSEARCH/Rec Review ..................	26
Playback – Basics
Playing back a tape ........................................	27
Viewing the recording on TV .......................	31
Advanced Recording Operations
Recording a still image on a tape
– Tape Photo recording .........................	33
Using the wide mode ....................................	36
Using the fader function ...............................	37
Using special effects – Picture effect ...........	39
Using special effects – Digital effect ............	40
Using the PROGRAM AE function .............	43
Adjusting the exposure manually ...............	45
Focusing manually .........................................	46
Superimposing a title ....................................	47
Making your own titles .................................	49
Inserting a scene .............................................	51
Advanced Playback Operations
Playing back a tape with picture effects .....	52
Playing back a tape with digital effects ......	53
Enlarging recorded images
– Tape PB ZOOM ...................................	54
Quickly locating a scene using the zero set
memory function ....................................	55
Searching a recording by date
– Date search ...........................................	56
Searching for a photo
– Photo search/Photo scan ....................	57

Dubbing only desired scenes
– Digital program editing ......................	62
Using with analog video unit and your
computer – Signal convert function .....	73
Recording video or TV programs ................	74
Inserting a scene from a VCR
– Insert Editing ........................................	76
Customizing Your Camcorder
Changing the menu settings .........................	78
“Memory Stick” operations
Using “Memory Stick”–introduction ..........	88
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”
– Memory Photo recording ...................	97
Recording an image from a tape as a still
image ......................................................	102
Recording moving pictures on “Memory
Stick”s – MPEG movie recording .......	104
Recording moving pictures from a tape ...	106
Superimposing a still image in the “Memory
Stick” on an image
– MEMORY MIX ...................................	110
Copying still images from a tape
– Photo save ...........................................	115
Viewing a still image
– Memory Photo playback ..................	117
Viewing a moving picture
– MPEG movie playback .....................	120
Viewing images using your computer ......	122
Copying the image recorded on “Memory
Stick” to tapes .......................................	127
Enlarging still images recorded on “Memory
Stick”s – Memory PB ZOOM ..............	129
Playing back images in a continuous loop
– SLIDE SHOW .....................................	131
Preventing accidental erasure
– Image protection ................................	132
Deleting images ............................................	133
Writing a print mark – PRINT MARK ......	136
Using the external printer ...........................	137
Troubleshooting
Types of trouble and their solutions .........	138
Self-diagnosis display ..................................	143
Warning indicators and messages .............	144
Additional Information
Digital8 system, recording and playback
.................................................................	146
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
.................................................................	148
About i.LINK ................................................	149
Using your camcorder abroad ...................	151
Maintenance information and precautions
.................................................................	152
Specifications ................................................	157

Editing

Quick Reference

started Getting

	Dubbing a tape	59	Identifying the parts and controls .............	159
			Index	167	5

Guide Start Quick

Quick Start Guide

This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information.

Connecting the power cord (p. 16)

Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 11).

Open the DC IN jack cover.

Connect the plug with its v mark facing up.

AC power adaptor (supplied)

Inserting a cassette (p. 18)

1Slide OPEN/EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

2Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply into the cassette compartment with the window facing out.

Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert.

3Close the cassette compartment by

pressing the mark on the cassette compartment. After the cassette compartment goes down completely, close the lid until it clicks.

6

Recording a picture (p. 19)

1Remove the lens cap.	2Set the POWER
	switch to CAMERA				O			C
				V		F
					C	F
	while pressing the		WER		R			(
								)
		PO						H
								G
	small green button.			MEM		M	A	C
			O
			YR		E
					R
				A

3Open the LCD panel while pressing OPEN. The picture appears on the LCD screen.

4Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. To stop recording, press START/STOP button again.

Viewfinder

When the LCD panel is closed, use the viewfinder placing your eye against its eyecup.

The picture in the viewfinder is black and white.

When you purchase your camcorder, the clock setting is set to off. If you want to record the date and time for a picture, set the clock setting before recording (p. 17).

Monitoring the playback picture on the LCD screen (p. 27)

2Press m to rewind the tape.

REW

3Press N to start playback.

PLAY

1Set the POWER		V	O
switch to VCR while			F
		C			H
				F
		R		(
					C
pressing the small	WER				G
					)
	PO
green button.		M	M	A	C
		R
		E	M
	O
	YR	A	E

Note

Do not pick up your camcorder by holding the viewfinder, the LCD panel, or the battery pack.

Guide Start Quick

7

— Getting started —

Using this manual

The instructions in this manual are for the three models listed in the table below. Before you start reading this manual and operating your camcorder, check the model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. The DCR-TRV830 is the model used for illustration purposes. Otherwise, the model name is indicated in the illustrations. Any differences in operation are clearly indicated in the text, for example, “DCR-TRV830 only.”

As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on your camcorder are shown in capital letters.

e.g. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

When you carry out an operation, you can hear a beep sound to indicate that the operation is being carried out.

Type of difference

DCR-	TRV730	TRV828	TRV830
LCD screen	6.2 cm (2.5 type)	8.8 cm (3.5 type)	8.8 cm (3.5 type)

Before using your camcorder

	With your digital camcorder, you can use Hi8		/Digital8	video cassettes. Your
	camcorder records and plays back pictures in the Digital8			system. Also, your
	camcorder plays back tapes recorded in the Hi8		/standard 8 (analog) system.

You, however, cannot use the functions in “Advanced Playback Operations” on page 52

	to 58 for playback in the Hi8	/standard 8 system. To enable smooth transition,
	we recommend that you do not mix pictures recorded in the Hi8			/standard 8
	with the Digital8 system on a tape.

Note on TV color systems

TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.

Copyright precautions

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

8

Using this manual

Precautions on camcorder care

Lens and LCD screen/finder (on mounted models only)

•The LCD screen and the finder are manufactured using extremely high-precision 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 constantly appear on the LCD screen and the finder.

These points are normal in the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.

•Do not let your camcorder get wet. Keep your camcorder away from rain and sea water. Letting your camcorder get wet may cause your camcorder to malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired [a].

•Never leave your camcorder exposed to temperatures above 60°C (140°F), such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight [b].

•Be careful when placing the camera near a window or outdoors. Exposing the LCD screen, the finder or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods may cause malfunctions [c].

•Do not directly shoot the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun in low light conditions such as dusk [d].

started Getting

[a]

[b]

[c]

[d]

9

Checking supplied accessories

Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.

1	2		3
4	5	6	7
8	9	0	qa
qs	qd	qf	qg

1Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 165)

2AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 12)

3 NP-FM50 battery pack (1) (p. 11, 12)

4Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p. 165)

5 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 31)

6 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 159)

7 Lens cap (1) (p. 19)

8 USB cable (1) (p. 123)

9 “Memory Stick” (1) (p. 88)

0CD-ROM (SPVD-004 USB Driver) (1) (p. 123)

qa Printer (PVP-MSH)* (1) (p. 137)

qs Print paper*

Standard type (10 sheets × 1),

Sticker type/Standard size

(5 sheets × 1),

Sticker type/9 split size (5 sheets × 1)

qd Print cartridge* (1)

qf Head cleaner* (1)

qg Platen roller cleaner* (1)

*DCR-TRV830 only

Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not made due to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc.

10

Step 1 Preparing the power supply

Installing the battery pack

We recommend using the battery pack when you use your camcorder outdoors.

(1) Lift up the viewfinder.

(2) Slide the battery pack down until it clicks.

1

2

To remove the battery pack

(1) Lift up the viewfinder.

(2) Slide the battery pack out in the direction of the arrow while pressing BATT (battery) release lever down.

BATT (battery) release lever

If you install the large capacity battery pack

If you install the NP-FM70/FM90/FM91 battery pack on your camcorder, extend its viewfinder.

started Getting

11

Step 1 Preparing the power supply

Charging the battery pack

4

Use the battery pack after charging it for your camcorder.

Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). See page 148 for details of “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.

(1) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack with the plug’s v mark facing up.

(2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor. (3) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.

(4) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Charging begins. The remaining battery time is indicated in minutes on the display window.

When the remaining battery indicator changes to u, normal charge is completed. To fully charge the battery (full charge), leave the battery pack attached after normal charge is completed until FULL appears on the display window. Fully charging the battery allows you to use the battery longer than usual.

	V		O
				F
		C			F
		R				(
						C
						H
POWER						G
						)
	M		M		A	C
		E		M
O
YR			E
		R
	A

1 2

The number in the illustration of the display window may differ from that on your camcorder.

After charging the battery pack

Disconnect the AC power adaptor from the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

12

Step 1 Preparing the power supply

Note

Prevent metallic objects from coming into contact with the metal parts of the DC plug of the AC power adaptor. This may cause a short-circuit, damaging the AC power adaptor.

When the battery pack is charged fully

The LCD backlight of the display window is turned off.

Remaining battery time indicator

The remaining battery time indicator in the display window roughly indicates the recording time with the viewfinder.

Until your camcorder calculates the actual remaining battery time

“– – – – min” appears in the display window.

While charging the battery pack, no indicator appears or the indicator flashes in the display window in the following cases:

–The battery pack is not installed correctly.

–Something is wrong with the battery pack.

If the power may go off although the battery remaining indicator indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate

Charge the battery pack fully again so that the indication on the battery remaining indicator is correct.

When you use the AC power adaptor

Place the AC power adaptor near a wall outlet. If any trouble occurs with this unit, disconnect the plug from the wall outlet as soon as possible to cut off the power.

Recommended charging temperature

We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of between 10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F).

What is ”InfoLITHIUM”?

The “InfoLITHIUM” is a lithium ion battery pack which can exchange data such as battery consumption with compatible electronic equipment. This unit is compatible with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery. “InfoLITHIUM” M series battery packs have the

mark. “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

TM

SERIES

started Getting

13

Step 1 Preparing the power supply

Charging time

Battery pack	Full charge (Normal charge)
NP-FM50 (supplied)	150 (90)
NP-FM30	145 (85)
NP-FM70	240 (180)
NP-FM90	330 (270)
NP-FM91	360 (300)

The charging time may increase if the battery’s temperature is extremly high or low because of the ambient temperature.

Approximate number of minutes to charge an empty battery pack at 25 ˚C (77 ˚F)

Recording time

DCR-TRV730

	Recording with		Recording with
Battery pack	the viewfinder		the LCD screen
	Continuous*	Typical**	Continuous*	Typical**
NP-FM50 (supplied)	120	70	100	55
NP-FM30	75	45	60	35
NP-FM70	255	145	210	120
NP-FM90	390	230	325	185
NP-FM91	455	265	375	215

DCR-TRV828/TRV830

	Recording with		Recording with
Battery pack	the viewfinder		the LCD screen
	Continuous*	Typical**	Continuous*	Typical**
NP-FM50 (supplied)	120	65	95	55
NP-FM30	75	40	55	30
NP-FM70	255	145	200	115
NP-FM90	390	225	305	180
NP-FM91	455	260	350	205

Approximate number of minutes when you use a fully charged battery

*Approximate continuous recording time at 25°C (77°F). The battery life will be shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment.

**Approximate number of minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/ stop, zooming and turning the power on/off. The actual battery life may be shorter.

14

Step 1 Preparing the power supply

Playing time

DCR-TRV730

Battery pack	Playing time	Playing time
	on LCD screen	with LCD closed		Getting
NP-FM50 (supplied)	120	155
NP-FM30	75	95
NP-FM70	255	320		started
NP-FM90	390	490
NP-FM91	455	565

DCR-TRV828/TRV830

	Battery pack	Playing time	Playing time
		on LCD screen	with LCD closed
	NP-FM50 (supplied)	110	155
	NP-FM30	70	95
	NP-FM70	240	320
	NP-FM90	360	490
	NP-FM91	420	565

Approximate number of minutes when you use a fully charged battery

Approximate continuous playing time at 25 °C (77 °F). The battery life will be shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment.

The recording and playing times of a normally charged battery are about 90 % of those of a fully charged battery.

Note

The table shows the playing time for tapes recorded in the Digital8 system. The playing time of tapes recorded in the Hi8/standard 8 system is reduced by about 20 %.

15

Step 1 Preparing the power supply

Connecting to a wall outlet

When you use your camcorder for a long time, we recommend that you power it from a wall outlet using the AC power adaptor.

(1) Open the DC IN jack cover, and connect the AC power adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder with the plug’s v mark facing up.

(2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor. (3) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.

1

2, 3

PRECAUTION

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

Notes

•The AC power adaptor can supply power even if the battery pack is attached to your camcorder.

•The DC IN jack has “source priority”. This means that the battery pack cannot supply any power if the power cord is connected to the DC IN jack, even when the power cord is not plugged into a wall outlet.

Using a car battery

Use Sony DC Adaptor/Charger (optional).

16

Step 2 Setting the date and time

Set the date and time settings when you use your camcorder for the first time. “CLOCK SET” will be displayed each time that you set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY unless you set the date and time settings.

If you do not use your camcorder for about half a year, the date and time settings may be released (bars may appear) because the built-in rechargeable battery will have been discharged (p. 154).

First, set the year, then the month, the day, the hour and then the minute.

(1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY, and then press MENU to display the menu settings.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select CLOCK SET, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the desired year, then press the dial. (5) Set the month, day and hour by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial and

pressing the dial.

(6) Set the minute by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial and pressing the dial by the time signal. The clock starts to move.

(7) Press MENU to make the menu settings disappear.

1,7

2

3

started Getting

MENU

S E T UP

MENU

S E T UP

MENU

– –: – –: – –

S E T UP

MENU

C L OCK

S E T

C L OC K

S E T

C L OCK

S E T

AU TO

T V ON

AU TO

T V ON

AU TO

T V

ON

1

T V I NPU T

T V I NPU T

T V I NPU T

2001

J AN

L T R S I Z E

L T R S I Z E

L T R S I Z E

L ANGUAGE

L ANGUAGE

L ANGUAGE

DEMO MODE

DEMO MODE

DEMO MODE

RE T URN

RE T URN

12 00

AM

[ ME NU ] : END

[ MENU ] : END

[ MENU ] : END

4

2 0 0 1 J A N 1

1 2 0 0 AM

6

			S E T UP		MENU				S E T UP	MENU	J U L 4 2001
				C L OCK	S E T				C L OCK	S E T
				AU TO	T V	ON	2001 J U L	4	AU TO	T V ON	5 :30:00 PM
				T V I NPU T					T V I NPU T
				L T R S I Z E					L T R S I Z E
				L ANGUAGE					L ANGUAGE
				DEMO MODE					DEMO MODE
2 0 0 1	J A N	1		RE T URN		5 30		PM	RE T URN
			[ MENU ] : END						[ MENU ] : END

1 2 0 0

The year changes as follows:
1995		T · · · · t 2001 T · · · · t 2079
If you do not set the date and time
“--- -- ----		” “--:--:--” is recorded on the tape and the “Memory Stick.”

Note on the time indicator
The internal clock of your camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle.
•12:00 AM stands for midnight.	17
•12:00 PM stands for noon.

Step 3 Inserting a cassette

	We recommend using Hi8	/Digital8 video cassettes.

(1) Prepare the power supply (p. 11).

(2) Slide OPEN/EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens.

(3) Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply into the cassette compartment with the window facing out.

Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert.

(4) Close the cassette compartment by pressing the mark on the cassette compartment. The cassette compartment automatically goes down.

(5) After the cassette compartment going down completely, close the lid until it clicks.

2

3

4,5

4

5

To eject a cassette

Follow the procedure above, and eject the cassette in step 3.

Notes

•Do not press the cassette compartment down. Doing so may cause malfunction. •Your camcorder records pictures in the Digital8 system.

• The recording time when you use your camcorder is half of indicated time on Hi8

tape. If you select the LP mode in the menu settings, 3/4 of indicated time on Hi8

tape.

•If you use standard 8 tape, be sure to play back the tape on this camcorder. Mosaic pattern noise may appear when you play back standard 8 tape on other camcorders (including other DCR-TRV730/TRV828/TRV830).

•The cassette compartment may not be closed when you press any part of the lid other than the mark.

To prevent accidental erasure

Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to expose the red mark.

18

— Recording – Basics —

Recording a picture

Your camcorder automatically focuses for you.

(1) Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on its sides and attach the lens cap to the grip strap.

(2) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Step 1” to “Step 3” for more information (p. 11 to 18).

(3) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the small green button. Your camcorder is set to the standby mode.

(4) Open the LCD panel while pressing OPEN. The viewfinder automatically turns off.

(5) Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. The REC indicator appears on the screen. The camera recording lamp located on the front of your camcorder lights up. To stop recording, press START/STOP again.

The recording lamp lights up in the viewfinder when you record with the viewfinder.

1	3
		V		O
					F
			C			F
			R			(
							C
	POWER						H
							)
							G
		M		M		A	C
			E		M
	O
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4	40min	SP REC 0:00:01

2

Camera recording lamp

Microphone

Notes

•Fasten the grip strap firmly.

•Do not touch the built-in microphone during recording.

Note on Recording mode

Your camcorder records and plays back in the SP (standard play) mode and in the LP (long play) mode. Select SP or LP in the menu settings (p. 78). In the LP mode, you can record 1.5 times as long as in the SP mode. When you record a tape in the LP mode on your camcorder, we recommend that you play back the tape on your camcorder.

Basics – Recording

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Recording a picture

Note on LOCK

When you slide LOCK to the right, the POWER switch can no longer be set to

MEMORY accidentally. The LOCK is released as a default setting.

To enable smooth transition

You can make the transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene smooth as long as you do not eject the cassette if you turn off your camcorder. When you change the battery pack, set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

If you leave your camcorder in the standby mode for 3 minutes

Your camcorder automatically turns off. This is to save battery power and to prevent battery and tape wear. To resume the standby mode, set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) once, then turn it to CAMERA again.

When you record in the SP and LP modes on one tape or you record some scenes in the LP mode

The playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly between scenes.

Adjusting the LCD screen

The LCD panel moves about 90 degrees to the viewfinder side and about 180 degrees to the lens side.

If you turn the LCD panel over so that it faces the other way, the indicator appears on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder (Mirror mode).

180°

90°

When closing the LCD panel, set it vertically until it clicks, and swing it into the camcorder body.

Note

When using the LCD screen except in the mirror mode, the viewfinder automatically turns off.

When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight

The LCD screen may be difficult to see. If this happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder.

When you adjust angles of the LCD panel

Make sure if the LCD panel is opened up to 90 degrees.

Picture in the mirror mode

The picture on the LCD is a mirror-image. However, the picture will be normal when recorded.

During recording in the mirror mode

You cannot operate the ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander.

Indicators in the mirror mode

The STBY indicator appears as Xzand REC as z. Some of other indicators appear mirror-reversed and others are not displayed.

When recording with the LCD panel opened

Recording time becomes shorter a little compared with when recording with the LCD

panel closed.

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Recording a picture

Brightness of the LCD screen

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen. Select LCD B.L. or LCD BRIGHT in the menu settings (p. 78). Even if you adjust the LCD B.L. or LCD BRIGHT, the recorded picture will not be affected.

After recording

(1) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). (2) Close the LCD panel.

(3) Eject the cassette.

Using the zoom feature

Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Using the zoom function sparingly results in better-looking recordings.

“T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer)

“W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away)

	W	T
W	T	W	T

Basics – Recording

Zoom greater than 18× is performed digitally. To activate digital zoom, select the digital zoom power in D ZOOM in the menu settings. (p. 78)

The picture quality deteriorates as the picture is processed digitally.

The right side of the bar shows the digital
		W				T
zooming zone.
The digital zooming zone appears when you
select the digital zoom power in D ZOOM in
the menu settings.

Notes on digital zoom

•Digital zoom starts to function when zoom exceeds 18×.

•The picture quality deteriorates as you go toward the “T” side.

•You cannot use the digital zoom when the POWER switch is set to MEMORY.

When you shoot close to a subject

If you cannot get a sharp focus, move the power zoom lever to the “W” side until the focus is sharp. You can shoot a subject that is at least about 80 cm (about 2 feet 5/8 inch) away from the lens surface in the telephoto position, or about 1 cm (about 1/2 inch) away in the wide-angle position.

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Recording a picture

To record pictures with the viewfinder – adjusting the viewfinder

If you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus.

Lift up the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever.

Viewfinder backlight

You can change the brightness of the backlight. Select VF B.L. in the menu settings. (p. 78)

Indicators displayed in the recording mode

The indicators are not recorded on tape.

Remaining battery time indicator

Format indicator

Recording mode indicator

STBY/REC indicator

				40min	SP	REC	0:00:01		Time code/Tape counter indicator
									Remaining tape indicator
									This appears after the POWER switch is set to CAMERA
									for a while.
	JUL 4 2001					12:05:56 AM			Time indicator
									This is displayed for five seconds after the POWER switch is
									set to CAMERA or MEMORY.
									Date indicator
									This is displayed for five seconds after the POWER switch is
									set to CAMERA or MEMORY.
		Remaining battery time indicator
		The remaining battery time indicator roughly indicates the recording time. The
		indicator may not be correct, depending on the conditions in which you are recording.
		When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about one minute for the
		correct remaining battery time in minutes to be displayed.
		Time code (for tapes recorded in the Digital8 system only)
		The time code indicates the recording or playback time, “0:00:00” (hours:minutes:
		seconds) in CAMERA mode and “0:00:00:00” (hours:minutes:seconds:frames) in VCR
		mode. You cannot rewrite only the time code.
22		When you play back tapes recorded in the Hi8/standard 8 system, the tape counter
		appears on the screen.
		You cannot reset the time code or the tape counter.

Recording a picture

Shooting backlit subjects – BACK LIGHT

When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the backlight function.

Press BACK LIGHT in CAMERA or MEMORY mode.

The . indicator appears on the screen.

To cancel, press BACK LIGHT again.

BACK LIGHT

If you press EXPOSURE when shooting backlit subjects

The backlight function will be canceled.

Basics – Recording

Shooting in the dark – NightShot/Super NightShot

The NightShot function enables you to shoot a subject in a dark place. For example, you can satisfactorily record the environment of nocturnal animals for observation when you use this function.

While your camcorder is in CAMERA or MEMORY mode, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. and “NIGHTSHOT” indicators flash on the screen.

To cancel the NightShot function, slide NIGHTSHOT to OFF.

NIGHTSHOT

OFF ON

SUPER

NIGHTSHOT

NightShot Light emitter

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Recording a picture

Using SUPER NIGHTSHOT

The Super NightShot mode makes subjects up to 16 times brighter than those recorded in the NightShot mode.

(1) Slide NIGHTSHOT to ON in CAMERA mode. and “NIGHTSHOT” indicators flash on the screen.

(2) Press SUPER NIGHTSHOT. and “SUPER NIGHTSHOT” indicators flash on the screen.

To cancel the Super NightShot mode, press SUPER NIGHTSHOT again.

Using the NightShot Light

The picture will be clearer with the NightShot Light on. To enable NightShot Light, set N.S.LIGHT to ON in the menu settings (p. 78).

Notes

•Do not use the NightShot function in bright places (ex. outdoors in the daytime). This may cause your camcorder to malfunction.

•When you keep NIGHTSHOT set to ON in normal recording, the picture may be recorded in incorrect or unnatural colors.

•If focusing is difficult with the autofocus mode when using the NightShot function, focus manually.

While using the NightShot function, you can not use the following functions:

–Exposure

–PROGRAM AE

While using the Super NightShot function, you can not use the following functions:

–Fader

–Digital effect

–Exposure

–PROGRAM AE

Shutter speed in the Super NightShot mode

The shutter speed will be automatically changed depending on the brightness of the background. The motion of the picture will be slow.

In MEMORY mode

You cannot use the Super NightShot function.

NightShot Light

NightShot Light rays are infrared and so are invisible. The maximum shooting distance using the NightShot Light is about 3 m (10 feet).

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Recording a picture

Self-timer recording

Recording with the self-timer starts in 10 seconds automatically. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation.

(1) Press MENU to display the menu settings in the standby mode. (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select SELFTIMER, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial.

(5) Press MENU to make the menu settings disappear. (6) Press START/STOP.

Self-timer starts counting down from 10 with a beep sound. In the last two seconds of the countdown, the beep sound gets faster, then recording starts automatically. To stop recording, press START/STOP again.

	6 START/STOP
START/STOP	2-4	S E L F T I ME R		O F F
		C AME R A	S E T
		D Z OOM		ON
		1 6 : 9 W I D E
		S T E A D Y S HO T
		N . S . L I GH T
		F L A S H	MOD E
		F L A S H	L V L
		R E T URN
		[ ME NU ] : E ND
	1,5 MENU

To stop the countdown

Press START/STOP.

To restart the countdown, press START/STOP again.

To record still images using the self-timer

Press PHOTO in step 6. (p. 34)

To cancel self-timer recording

Set SELFTIMER to OFF in the menu settings in the standby mode.

Note

The self-timer recording mode is automatically cancelled when:

–Self-timer recording is finished.

–The POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG) or VCR.

Self-timer memory photo recording

You can also record still images on “Memory Stick”s with the self-timer (p. 101).

Basics – Recording

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Checking the recording

– END SEARCH/EDITSEARCH/Rec Review

You can use these buttons to check the recorded picture or shoot so that the transition between the last recorded scene and the next scene you record is smooth.

EDITSEARCH

END SEARCH

END SEARCH

You can go to the end of the recorded section after you record.

Press END SEARCH in the standby mode.

The last 5 seconds of the recorded section are played back and returns to the standby mode. You can monitor the sound from the speaker or headphones.

EDITSEARCH

You can search for the next recording start point.

Hold down the +/– (7) side of EDITSEARCH in the standby mode. The recorded section is played back.

+ : to go forward

– : to go backward

Release EDITSEARCH to stop playback. If you press START/STOP, re-recording begins from the point you released EDITSEARCH. You cannot monitor the sound.

Rec Review

	You can check the section which you have stopped most recently.
	Press the – (7) side of EDITSEARCH momentarily in the standby mode.
	The section you have stopped most recently will be played back for a few seconds, and
	then your camcorder will return to the standby mode. You can monitor the sound from
	the speaker or headphones.
	Notes
	•END SEARCH, EDITSEARCH and Rec Review work only for tapes recorded in the
	Digital8 system.
	•If you start recording after using the end search function, occasionally, the transition
	between the last scene you recorded and the next scene may not be smooth.
	•Once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape, the end search
	function does not work.
	If a tape has a blank portion in the recorded portions
26	The end search function may not work correctly.

— Playback – Basics —

Playing back a tape

You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen. If you close the LCD panel, you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can control playback using the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder.

(1) Install the power source and insert the recorded tape.

(2) Set the POWER switch to VCR while pressing the small green button. (3) Open the LCD panel while pressing OPEN.

(4) Press m to rewind the tape. (5) Press N to start playback.

(6) To adjust the volume, press either of the two buttons on VOLUME. The speaker on your camcorder is silent when the LCD panel is closed.

2		C			F		4
	V		O
				F
		R				(
POWER						C	REW
						)
						H
						G
	M		M		A	C
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3

VOLUME

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Basics – Playback

To stop playback

Press x.

When monitoring on the LCD screen

You can turn the LCD panel over and move it back to the camcorder body with the LCD screen facing out.

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Playing back a tape

To display the screen indicators – Display function

Press DISPLAY on your camcorder or the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder.

The indicators appear on the screen.

To make the indicators disappear, press DISPLAY again.

DISPLAY

Using the data code function

Your camcorder automatically records not only images on the tape but also the recording data (date/time or various settings when recorded) (Data code). Use the Remote Commander for this operation.

Press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander in the playback mode.

The display changes as follows:

date/time t various settings (SteadyShot, exposure AUTO/MANUAL, white balance, gain, shutter speed, aperture value) t no indicator

Date/time

Various settings

		40min		0:00:23:01			40min			0:00:23:01
							AUTO
	JUL 4 2001						60 AWB
	12:05:56 AM					F1.6		9dB

[a] SteadyShot off indicator [b] Exposure mode indicator [c] White balance indicator [d] Gain indicator

[e] Shutter speed indicator [f] Aperture value

Not to display various settings

Set DATA CODE to DATE in the menu settings (p. 78). The display changes as follows:

date/time t no indicator

[a] [b] [c] [d] [e] [f]

	Note on the data code function
	The data code function works only for tapes recorded in the Digital8 system.
	Recording data
28	Recording data is your camcorder’s information when you have recorded. In the
	recording mode, the recording data will not be displayed.

Playing back a tape

When you use data code function, bars (--- -- ----

and --:--:--) appear if:

–A blank section of the tape is being played back.

–The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise.

–The tape was recorded by a camcorder without the date and time set.

Data code

When you connect your camcorder to the TV, the data code appears on the TV screen.

Remaining battery time indicator during playback

The indicator indicates the approximate continuous playback time. The indicator may not be correct, depending on the conditions in which you are playing back. When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about 1 minute for the correct remaining battery time to be displayed.

Various playback modes

To operate video control buttons, set the POWER switch to VCR.

To view a still image (playback pause)

Press X during playback. To resume playback, press X or N.

To advance the tape

Press M in the stop mode. To resume normal playback, press N.

To rewind the tape

Press m in the stop mode. To resume normal playback, press N.

To change the playback direction

Press on the Remote Commander during playback to reverse the playback direction. To resume normal playback, press N.

To locate a scene monitoring the picture (picture search)

Keep pressing m or M during playback. To resume normal playback, release the button.

To monitor the high-speed picture while advancing or rewinding the tape (skip scan)

Keep pressing m while rewinding or M while advancing the tape. To resume rewinding or advancing, release the button.

To view the picture at slow speed (slow playback)

Press y on the Remote Commander during playback. For slow playback in the reverse direction, press , then press y on the Remote Commander. To resume normal playback, press N.

To view the picture at double speed

Press ×2 on the Remote Commander during playback. For double speed playback in the reverse direction, press , then press ×2 on the Remote Commander. To resume normal playback, press N.

To view the picture frame-by-frame

Press C on the Remote Commander in the playback pause mode. For frame-by-frame playback in the reverse direction, press c. To resume normal playback, press N.

To search the last scene recorded (END SEARCH)

Basics – Playback

Press END SEARCH in the stop mode. The last 5 seconds of the recorded section plays	29
back and stops.

Playing back a tape

In the various playback modes

•Noise may appear when your camcorder plays back tapes recorded in the Hi8/ standard 8 system.

•Sound is muted.

•The previous recording may appear as a mosaic image when playing back in the Digital8 system.

Notes on the playback pause mode

•When the playback pause mode lasts for 3 minutes, your camcorder automatically enters the stop mode. To resume playback, press N.

•The previous recording may appear.

Slow playback for tapes recorded in the Digital8 system

The slow playback can be performed smoothly on your camcorder; however, this function does not work for an output signal from the DV IN/OUT jack.

When you play back a tape in reverse

Horizontal noise may appear at the center or top and bottom of the screen. This is not a malfunction.

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