Sony DNW-7, DNW-90WSP, DNW-90WS, DNW-9WS, DNW-90 User Manual

DIGITAL CAMCORDER

DNW-7/7P
DNW-90/90P
DNW-90WS
DNW-90WSP
DNW-9WS/9WSP

OPERATION MANUAL English
1st Edition (Revised 5)

WARNING

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

To avoid electrical shock, do not open
the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel only.

AVERTISSEMENT

Afin d’éviter tout risque d’incendie ou
d’électrocution, ne pas exposer cet
appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité.

Afin d’écarter tout risque
d’électrocution, garder le coffret fermé.
Ne confier l’entretien de l’appareil qu’à
un personnel qualifié.

WARNUNG

Um Feuergefahr und die Gefahr eines
elektrischen Schlages zu vermeiden,
darf das Gerät weder Regen noch
Feuchtigkeit ausgesetzt werden.

Um einen elektrischen Schlag zu
vermeiden, darf das Gehäuse nicht
geöffnet werden. Überlassen Sie
Wartungsarbeiten stets nur
qualifiziertem Fachpersonal.

For the customers in the USA

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15
of th e 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.

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

The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual
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 the customers in the USA and Canada

RECYCLING NICKEL-CADMIUM BATTERIES

NICKEL-CADMIUM BATTERY.
MUST BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY.

Nickel-Cadmium batteries are recyclable.
You can help preserve our environment by
returning your unwanted batteries to your
nearest Sony Service Center or Factory
Service Center for collection, recycling or
proper disposal.
Note: In some areas the disposal of nickel­cadmium batteries in household or business
trash may be prohibited.

For the Sony Service Center nearest you call 1-800-222­SONY (United States only)
For the Factory Service Center nearest you call 416-499­SONY (Canada only)

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking nickel­cadmium batteries.

For the customers in Europe

This product with the CE marking complies with the EMC
Directive(89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the
European Community.
Compliance with this directive implies conformity to the
following European standards:

• EN55103-1: Electromagnetic Interference(Emission)

• EN55103-2: Electromagnetic Susceptibility(Immunity)
This product is intended for use in the following
Electromagnetic Environment(s):
E1 (residential), E2 (commercial and light industrial),
E3 (urban outdoors) and E4 (controlled EMC environment,
ex. TV studio).

Pour les clients européens

Ce produit portant la marque CE est conforme à la
Directive sur la compatibilité électromagnétique (EMC) (89/
336/CEE) émise par la Commission de la Communauté
européenne.
La conformité à cette directive implique la conformité aux
normes européennes suivantes:

• EN55103-1: Interférences électromagnétiques (émission)

• EN55103-2: Sensibilité électromagnétique (immunité)

Ce produit est prévu pour être utilisé dans les
environnements électromagnétiques suivants:
E1 (résidentiel), E2 (commercial et industrie légère),
E3 (urbain extérieur) et E4 (environnement EMC contrôlé,
ex. studio de télévision).

Für Kunden in Europa

Dieses Produkt besitzt die CE-Kennzeichnung und erfüllt
die EMV-Direktive (89/336/EEC) der EG-Kommission. Die
Erfüllung dieser Direktive bedeutek Konformität für die
folgenden Europäischen Normen:

• EN55103-1: Elektromagnetische Interferenz (Emission)

• EN55103-2: Elektromagnetische Empfindlichkeit
(Immunität)
Dieses Produkt ist für den Einsatz unter folgenden
elektromagnetischen Bedingungen ausgelegt:
E1 (Wohnbereich), E2 (kommerzieller und in
beschränktem Maße industrieller Bereich), E3
(Stadtbereich im Freien) und E4 (kontrollierter EMV­Bereich, z.B. Fernsehstudio).

Voor de Klanten in Nederland

Gooi de batterij niet weg maar lever deze in als klein
chemisch afval (KCA).

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Overview

1-1 Features .....................................................................................1-1

1-1-1 Camera Features ..............................................................1-2

1-1-2 VTR Features ..................................................................1-4

1-2 Example of System Configuration ..........................................1-6

1-3 Precautions ................................................................................ 1-8

1-4 Using the CD-ROM Manual....................................................... 9

1-4-1 CD-ROM System Requirements ........................................ 9

1-4-2 Preparations........................................................................ 9

1-4-3 To Read the CD-ROM Manual ........................................ 10

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and

Controls

2-1 Power Supply ............................................................................2-1

2-2 Accessory Attachments ............................................................2-3

2-3 Audio Functions........................................................................2-5

2-4 Shooting and Recording/Playback Functions ......................2-14

2-5 Setup Menu Operating Section .............................................2-26

2-6 Time Code System ..................................................................2-28

2-7 Warnings and Indications......................................................2-34

2-8 Warnings and Indications on the Display Panel..................2-37

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

3-1 About Cassettes.........................................................................3-1

3-1-1 Loading and Unloading a Cassette..................................3-1

3-1-2 Preventing Accidental Erasure ........................................ 3-4

3-2 Recording ..................................................................................3-5

3-2-1 Basic Procedure...............................................................3-5

3-2-2 Continuous Recording.....................................................3-9

3-2-3 Recording Good Shot Markers ......................................3-12

3-2-4 Recording a Recording Start Marker .............................3-12

Table of Contents 1

3-3 Checking the Recording— Playback .................................... 3-13

3-3-1 Checking the Last Two Seconds of the Recording —

Recording Review ......................................................... 3-13

3-3-2 Checking the Recording on the Color Video Monitor —

Playback in Color .......................................................... 3-14

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for

Recording

4-1 Adjusting the Black Balance and the White Balance............4-1

4-1-1 Adjusting the Black Balance ........................................... 4-2

4-1-2 Adjusting the White Balance .......................................... 4-5

4-2 Setting the Electronic Shutter ...............................................4-11

4-2-1 Shutter Modes ...............................................................4-11

4-2-2 Selecting the Shutter Mode and Speed..........................4-13

4-3 Changing the Reference Value for Automatic Iris

Adjustment .............................................................................. 4-19

4-4 Adjusting the Audio Level .....................................................4-22

4-5 Setting the Time Data.............................................................4-25

4-5-1 Setting the User Bits......................................................4-25

4-5-2 Setting the Time Code...................................................4-27

4-5-3 Saving the Real Time in the Time Code .......................4-29

4-5-4 Synchronizing the Time Code.......................................4-30

4-5-5 Setting Cassette Numbers and Shot Numbers...............4-35

4-6 Setup Menu Display on the Viewfinder Screen ...................4-37

4-6-1 Setup Menu Configuration ............................................ 4-37

4-6-2 Basic Use of the Setup Menu ........................................ 4-40

4-7 Indicators in the Viewfinder..................................................4-45

4-7-1 Layout of Indicators in the Viewfinder ......................... 4-45

4-7-2 Setting the Indicator................................................4-47

4-8 Status Display on the Viewfinder Screen .............................4-50

4-8-1 Layout of the Status Display on the Viewfinder

Screen ............................................................................ 4-51

4-8-2 Selecting the Display Items...........................................4-55

2 Table of Contents

4-8-3 Display Mode and Setting Change and Adjustment

Progress Messages ........................................................ 4-58

4-8-4 Setting the Marker Display ...........................................4-61

4-8-5 Recording Superimposed Shot Data in Color Bars ....... 4-63

4-8-6 Setting the Shot ID ........................................................4-66

4-8-7 Displaying Time Code and Other Information .............4-70

4-9 Adjustments and Settings From the Setup Menu................4-73

4-9-1 Setting the GAIN Selector Values ................................4-74

4-9-2 Selecting the Functions .................................................4-76

4-9-3 Selecting the Test Output .............................................. 4-80

4-9-4 Selecting the Aspect Ratio (DNW-90WS/90WSP

Only) ............................................................................. 4-82

4-10 VTR Menu Display in the Display Panel..............................4-87

4-10-1Configuration and Functions of the VTR Menu ...........4-87

4-10-2Using the VTR Menu ....................................................4-88

4-10-3Example Operations in the VTR Menu.........................4-94

4-11 Using the Setup Card ...........................................................4-101

4-11-1Handling the Setup Card .............................................4-101

4-11-2Using Data on the Setup Card .....................................4-103

Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder

5-1 Power Supply ............................................................................5-1

5-1-1 Using a BP-L60/L90 Battery Pack..................................5-1

5-1-2 Using an NP-1B Battery Pack .........................................5-4

5-1-3 Using a BP-90A Battery Pack .........................................5-5

5-1-4 Avoiding Breaks in Operation Due to Dead Batteries ....5-7

5-1-5 Using an AC Adaptor ......................................................5-8

5-1-6 Using the Anton Bauer Ultralight System ...................... 5-9

5-1-7 Using the Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System .........5-9

(Continued)

Table of Contents 3

5-2 Adjusting the Viewfinder.......................................................5-10

5-2-1 Adjusting the Viewfinder Position................................5-10

5-2-2 Adjusting the Viewfinder Focus and Screen.................5-12

5-2-3 Detaching the Viewfinder .............................................5-13

5-2-4 Detaching the Eyepiece.................................................5-15

5-3 Mounting the Lens..................................................................5-17

5-4 Adjusting the Flange Focal Length.......................................5-18

5-5 Audio Input System ................................................................ 5-20

5-5-1 Using the Supplied Microphone....................................5-20

5-5-2 Using an External Microphone .....................................5-23

5-5-3 Attaching a UHF Portable Tuner (for a UHF Wireless

Microphone System) .....................................................5-28

5-5-4 Connecting Line Input Audio Equipment ..................... 5-34

5-6 Tripod Mounting ....................................................................5-35

5-7 Attaching the Shoulder Strap................................................5-37

5-8 Adjusting the Shoulder Pad Position .................................... 5-39

5-9 Using the XLR Caps ............................................................... 5-40

5-10 Putting On the Rain Cover .................................................... 5-41

5-11 Connecting the Remote Control Unit ...................................5-43

5-12 Connecting a VA-DN1 Camcorder Interface Adaptor .......5-45

Chapter 6 Maintenance

6-1 Testing the Camcorder Before Shooting ................................6-1

6-1-1 Preparations for Testing ..................................................6-1

6-1-2 Testing the Camera ......................................................... 6-2

6-1-3 Testing the VTR .............................................................. 6-5

6-2 Maintenance ............................................................................ 6-10

6-2-1 Cleaning the Video Heads.............................................6-10

6-2-2 Cleaning the Viewfinder ...............................................6-10

6-3 Operation Warnings...............................................................6-12

4 Table of Contents

Appendix

Specifications ..................................................................................... A-1

Video Camera Section ............................................................... A-2

VTR Section ..............................................................................A-5

Supplied Accessories ................................................................. A-8

Recommended Additional Equipment ...................................... A-8

Glossary ............................................................................................ A-11

Index .................................................................................................... I-1

Table of Contents 5

1-1 Features

The DNW-7/7P series 1) Digital Camcorder combines a color video
camera, which uses IT 2) type Power HAD
BETACAM SX series portable videocassette recorder. Its excellent
image quality, sensitivity, portability, and dust- and water-proof
construction make it ideal as a camcorder for ENG 5) and EFP 6) in the
same way the earlier BVW-300A/300AP. The introduction of a new
method of processing digital signals improves the image quality even
further and makes the camcorder far easier to use.
The DNW-90/90P/90WS/90WSP uses FIT 7) type Power HAD sensor
CCDs.
The DNW-90WS/90WSP designed on the basis of the DNW-90/90P
employs a switchable CCD, allowing you to switch between the
conventional aspect ratio of 4:3 and a wide screen aspect ratio of 16:9.
The DNW-9WS/9WSP is identical with the DNW-90WS/90WSP except
that it uses IT type Power HAD sensor CCDs.

....................................................................................................................................

1) The DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS is for the NTSC broadcast system. The DNW-7P/
9P/90WSP/9WSP is for the PAL broadcast system. The descriptions given in
this manual apply to both models, any differences being clearly noted in the text.

2) IT: Interline Transfer

3) Power HAD: Power Hole-Accumulated Diode
“Power HAD” is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.

4) CCD: Charge-Coupled Device

5) ENG: Electronic News Gathering

6) EFP: Electronic Field Production

7) FIT: Frame Interline Transfer

3)

sensor CCDs 4), with a

1

Overview

Chapter 1 Overview 1-1

1-1-1 Camera Features

1

The features of the DNW-7/7P/90/90P/90WS/90WSP/9WS/9WSP series
camera are described below.

• Power HAD sensor CCDs ensure high sensitivity and high image

quality.

• Digital signal processing has improved picture quality, stability, and

reliability.

•A setup menu enables you to control features such as status displays,

messages, and markers; to select values or functions; and to operate a
setup card.

•A setup card (not supplied) makes it easy to replicate the recorder setup

data appropriate to the shooting conditions, and ensures uniform
shooting 1).

• Use of a built-in sophisticated electronic shutter, which has selectable

modes, Clear Scan 2), Extended Clear Scan (for DNW-90/90P/90WS/
90WSP only) and Super Enhanced Vertical Definition, ensures
shooting with little or no blurring.

• Selectable video gain ensures a noise-free image.

•A simple switch operation enables automatic adjustment of the black

set, black balance, and white balance. Memory functions make it easy
to replicate the settings appropriate for the lighting conditions.

• The ATW

varying lighting conditions during shooting.

• The “TruEye”

3)

function automatically adjusts the white balance for the

4)

process is used to ensure naturally colored pictures

even when shooting very bright subjects.

• The video gain can be boosted to 42dB instantly using the TURBO

GAIN button.

....................................................................................................................................

1) The data saved in the setup card for the DNW-7/7P/90/90P/90WS/90WSP/9WS/
9WSP is not interchangeable with the data saved in setup cards for other
camcorders.

2) Clear Scan: “Clear Scan” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

3) ATW: Auto Tracing White balance

4) “TruEye”: TruEye is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

1-2 Chapter 1 Overview

• The DynaLatitude1) function enables detailed adjustment of contrast

control in each pixel in accordance with a histogram of luminance
signal levels. Useful in shooting scenes which contain both dark and
bright spots.

•A high-performance viewfinder is adjustable forward, backward and

sideways, and has full auxiliary equipment.

• Character display functions on the viewfinder indicate switch settings,

black and white balance adjustment, and warnings.

• Warning indicators and sound inform you of VTR faults, end of tape,

low battery, etc.

• The camcorder is provided with a filter disk for adjusting the filter

setting to the shooting conditions.

• Fine adjustment of the reference value for automatic iris control is

provided.

• The iris of the lens automatically closes during automatic black balance

adjustment and during operation of the built-in saw-tooth waveform
generator.

•A built-in circuit produces a color bar signal for easy adjustment of the

color monitor. An SNG bar signal is also provided for SNG 2) uplink
purposes.

•A super-cardioid directional microphone with an external power supply

system is supplied. Other types of microphones can also be connected.

• By connecting the BVF-VC10W Color Viewfinder (not supplied), you

can check both the camera image and a playback image in color.

• The RM-P9 Remote Control Unit (not supplied) controls some of the

camera functions.

• By connecting the CA-701 Camera Adaptor (not supplied), you can

record serial digital interface (SDI) signals.

• By connecting the CA-702 Camera Adaptor (not supplied), you can

record external analog video signals or serial digital interface (SDI)
signals.

....................................................................................................................................

1) “DynaLatitude”: “DynaLatitude” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

2) SNG: Satellite News Gathering

Chapter 1 Overview 1-3

1

1-1-2 VTR Features

1

The VTR features of this camcorder are described below.

• Using the Betacam SX format, it provides picture quality as good as or

better than the Betacam SP format. It supports nonlinear editing and
high-speed transfer, while offering digital audio capability.

• Use of low-cost Betacam SX tapes leads to lower running costs.

• The shooting date and time, camera ID, cassette number and other

information can be recorded on the tape as shot data.

• It is possible to record recording start markers and good shot markers

on the tape while shooting, and search automatically for required cuts
when editing.

• It is possible to automatically rewind and review the last few seconds

of the recording on the tape for a quick check immediately after
shooting.

• No playback adaptor is needed to see the color playback image.

• The five times normal speed search function provides quick positioning

of the tape.

• Both LTC 1) and VITC 2) recordings can be made, as can LTC

playback.

• In addition to the two audio output channels, by using the CA-701

Camera Adaptor (not supplied), four audio channels can be input.

• By connecting the CA-701 Camera Adaptor (not supplied), you can

output serial digital interface (SDI) signals.

• The built-in time code generator is synchronized with an external

generator.

•A lithium battery is the back-up power supply for the time code

generator enabling the time code to be held for about 5 years without
charging the camcorder power supply.

....................................................................................................................................

1) LTC: Longitudinal Time Code

2) VITC: Vertical Interval Time Code

1-4 Chapter 1 Overview

• Optional long-life battery packs are available.

• Pressing the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button

on the lens ensures recording continuity from the very next frame.

•A slot-in UHF portable tuner (WRR-855A, not supplied) can be

attached.

• By connecting the VA-DN1 Camcorder Interface Adaptor (not

supplied) to the 6-pin REMOTE connector, you can control some of
the VTR functions from a 9-pin remote control device.

1

Chapter 1 Overview 1-5

1-2 Example of System

1

Configuration

The diagram below shows a typical configuration of the camcorder for
ENG and EFP.

For more information about connections of the additional equipment and
accessories, see Chapter 5, as well as the operation manuals for the connected
equipment.

Video monitor

Color playback

Video monitor

Field pickup unit

Fog-proof filter
(Part No. 1-547­341-11)

RM-P9
Remote Control Unit

VA-DN1 Camcorder
Interface Adaptor

Color image check
while shooting

Video monitor

BKW-401 Viewfinder
Rotation Bracket

BVF-VC10W
Color Viewfinder

CA-701/702/
702P/755/755P
Camera Adaptor

BVR-3
Remote Control Unit

a) For more information, see “Viewfinder and related equipment” (page A-9).

BSC-1
Setup Card

1-6 Chapter 1 Overview

1

Lens assembly
(−2.8 D to +2.0 D)
(Part No. A-8262-537-A)
Lens assembly
(−3.6 D to −0.8 D)
(Part No. A-8262-538-A)
Lens assembly
(−3.6 D to +0.4 D)
(Part No. A-8267-737-A)
Lens assembly
(3 × magnification)
(−3.6 D to +0.4 D)
(Part No. A-8314-798-A)

Power source

AC

b)

power

AC-550/550CE
AC Adaptor

AC-DN1/DN2 AC Adaptor

b) 120 V AC or 220

to 240 V AC

a)

a)

a)

a)

Battery

BC-1WD/1WDCE
Battery Charger

NP-1B
Battery Pack

DC-L1
Battery Adaptor

Sound signal equipment

External microphone C-74, etc.

CAC-12 Microphone Holder

Audio equipment

WRR-855A UHF Synthesized
Tuner Unit

WRR-28H/28M/28L/810A/ 860A
UHF Portable Tuner

CCXA-53 Audio Cable

BC-210/210CE/
410/410CE
Battery Charger

BP-90A

Battery Pack

BC-L100/
L100CE Battery
Charger

BP-L60/L90
Battery Pack

DC-L90
Battery Adaptor

Chapter 1 Overview 1-7

1-3 Precautions

Use and Storage

1

Do not subject the camcorder to severe shocks

The internal mechanism may be damaged or the body warped.

After use

Always turn off the power.

Before storing the camcorder for a long period

Remove the battery pack.

Use and storage locations

Store in a ventilated place. Avoid using or storing the camcorder in the
following places.

• Places subject to temperature extremes

• Damp places

• Places subject to severe vibration

• Near strong magnetic fields

• In direct sunlight or close to heaters for extended periods

1-8 Chapter 1 Overview

1-4 Using the CD-ROM

Manual

The supplied CD-ROM includes Operation Manuals for the DNW-7/90/
90WS/9WS series of Digital Camcorder (English, Japanese, French, and
German versions).

1-4-1 CD-ROM System Requirements

The following are required to access the supplied CD-ROM disc.

• Computer: PC with MMX Pentium 166 MHz or faster CPU, or
Macintosh computer with PowerPC CPU.

- Installed memory: 32 MB or more

- CD-ROM drive: × 8 or faster

• Monitor: Monitor supporting resolution of 800 × 600 or higher

When these requirements are not met, access to the CD-ROM disc may
be slow, or not possible at all.

1-4-2 Preparations

The following software must be installed on your computer in order to
use the operation manuals contained in the CD-ROM disc.

1

Chapter 1 Overview 1-9

Notes

1

• If Microsoft Internet Explorer is not installed, it may be downloaded
from the following URL:
http://www.microsoft.com/ie

• If Netscape Navigator is not installed, it may be downloaded from the
following URL:
http://home.netscape.com/

• If Adobe Acrobat Reader is not installed, it may be downloaded from
the following URL:
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html

....................................................................................................................................

• MMX and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation or its

subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.

• PowerPC is a registered trademark of International Business Machines

Corporation.

• Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

• Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United

States and/or other countries.

• Netscape Navigator is a registered trademark of Netscape Communications

Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

• Adobe and Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in

the United States and/or other countries.

• Microsoft Internet Explorer Version 4.0 or higher, or Netscape Navigator

Version 4.0 or higher

• Adobe Acrobat Reader Version 4.0 or higher

1-10 Chapter 1 Overview

1-4-3 To Read the CD-ROM Manual

To read the operation manual contained in the CD-ROM disc, do the
following.

1 Insert the CD-ROM disc in your CD drive.

A cover page appears automatically in your browser.
If it does not appear automatically in the browser, double click the
index.htm file on the CD-ROM disc.

2 Select and click the operation manual that you want to read.

A PDF file of the operation manual opens.

Note

If you lose the CD-ROM disc or become unable to read its content, for
example because of a hardware failure,
contact a Sony service representative. You can purchase a new CD-ROM
disc to replace one that has been lost or damaged.

1

Chapter 1 Overview 1-11

2-1 Power Supply

3

5

4

Power supply functions

1 Battery attachment

Attach a BP-L60/L90 Battery Pack, a DC-L1 Battery Adaptor for
loading an NP-1B Battery Pack, or a DC-L90 Battery Adaptor for
loading a BP-90A Battery Pack.
Furthermore, by attaching an AC-DN1/DN2 AC Adaptor you can
operate the camcorder from AC power.

2

Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

1

2

2 DC IN (external power input) connector (XLR type, 4-pin, male)

Connect an AC-550/550CE AC Adaptor with the DC output cable
supplied with the adaptor.
To use an external battery, connect its DC output cable to the DC IN
connector.

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-1

3 BREAKER button

Excessive current in the internal circuitry, whatever the cause, will trip
the internal circuit breaker, automatically cutting off the power. If the
breaker trips, consult your Sony service personnel.

2

4 POWER switch

This switch turns the main power supply on and off.

5 LIGHT switch

This selects the way in which a video light connected to the LIGHT
connector is switched on and off.
AUTO: When the video light switch is turned on, starting recording with

the VTR turns on the light.

MANUAL: The video light switch controls the light, turning it on and

off manually.

2-2 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

2-2 Accessory Attachments

1 2

3

4

5

6

2

98

Lens cable clamps

Accessory attachments

1 Shoulder strap posts

Attach the supplied shoulder strap to these posts.

2 Light shoe

Attach a video light, etc. to this shoe.

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-3

7

3 LIGHT connector

Connect the cable of a video light attached to the light shoe. The
maximum power consumption allowable for the video light is 30 W.

2

4 Lens mount

This is a special bayonet type lens mount.

5 Lens locking lever

After inserting the lens in the lens mount, rotate the lens mount ring with
this lever to lock the lens in position.

6 Lens mount cap

Remove this cap by pushing up on the lens locking lever. For protection
from dust, always insert this cap when no lens is mounted.

7 Tripod mount

Fit the supplied tripod adaptor to mount the camcorder on a tripod.

8 LENS connector (12-pin)

Fit the lens cable to this connector. Contact your Sony representative for
more information about the lens you are using.

9 Shoulder pad

You can move the shoulder pad forwards or backwards by loosening the
two screws. Do this to ensure the best balance when shooting with the
camcorder on your shoulder.

2-4 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

2-3 Audio Functions

1

2

3

Audio functions (1)

1 Microphone

This is a super-cardioid directional microphone with an external power
supply system. You can use it as an interview microphone by connecting
it to an extension cable (not supplied).

2 MIC IN (microphone input) connector (XLR type, 3-pin, female)

The supplied microphone connects to this connector. By using an
extension cable (not supplied), you can connect a microphone other than
the supplied one as long as it is provided with an external power supply
system. The connector supplies power (+48 V) to the microphone.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-5

3 MIC (microphone) AUDIO LEVEL control

If one or both of the AUDIO IN switches are set to FRONT, you can
adjust the recording level of the microphone.
When AUDIO is set to ON in the VF DISPLAY 2/2 page of the setup

2

menu and the viewfinder DISPLAY switch is set to ON, adjust the
channel-1 audio level, watching the indication in the viewfinder.

2-6 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

ADVANCE SHIFT

PRESET

REGEN

CLOCK

DF

NDF

F-RUN

SET

R-RUN

DIAG DATA

DISPLAY

U-BIT
SHOT

CH-1 CH-2

TIME
NO

LEVEL

100 100

AUTO

MANUAL

AUDIO SILECT

AUDIO IN

FRONT
REAR

WIRELESS

4

5

6

7

8

9

2

Audio functions (2)

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-7

4 AUDIO LEVEL CH-1/CH-2 (audio channel 1 and channel 2

recording level) controls

These controls adjust the audio level of channels 1 and 2 when you set
the AUDIO SELECT CH-1/CH-2 switches to MANUAL.

2

5 AUDIO SELECT CH-1/CH-2 (audio channel-1 and channel-2

select) switches

These switches set the audio level adjustment for channels 1 and 2 to
MANUAL or AUTO.

6 AUDIO IN (audio input) switches

These switches select the audio input signals for audio channels 1 and 2.
The input signal source is one of:

FRONT: The input signal source is the MIC IN connector.
REAR: The input signal source is the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2

connectors.

WIRELESS: The input signal source is a WRR-855A UHF Synthesized

Tuner Unit (not supplied).
The audio input signals from the MIC IN connector and the wireless
microphone are always recorded on audio channels 3 and 4, respectively,
whether or not they are recorded on audio channels 1 and 2 in
accordance with the setting of this switch.

For more infomration, refer to the Maintenance Manual.

7 AUDIO OUT (audio output) connector (XLR type, 5-pin, male)

This connector outputs the stereo sound.
Using a CCXA-53 Audio Cable (not supplied), you can convert from a
5-pin connection to two 3-pin connections.

2-8 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

8 AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 (audio channel 1 and channel 2 input)

connectors (XLR type, 3-pin, female) and LINE/MIC/+48 V ON
(line input/microphone input/external power supply +48 V on)
selectors

These are the audio input connectors for channels 1 and 2, to which you
can connect a microphone or other audio sources.
The LINE/MIC/+48 V ON selectors select the audio input signal source
connected to these connectors, as follows:

LINE: Line input audio equipment
MIC: A microphone with internal batteries
+48 V ON: A microphone with an external power supply system

9 DC OUT (DC power output) connector

This connector supplies power for a WRR-28H/28M/28L/860A UHF
Portable Tuner (not supplied).
Alternatively, it can supply power for a BVR-3 Remote Control Unit
combined with a VA-DN1 Camcorder Interface Adaptor.

Note

The type of UHF portable tuner which can be connected depends on the
country where the camcorder is used.

For more information, consult your Sony representative.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-9

2

!

!º!

™

Audio functions (3)

!º ALARM volume control

This control adjusts the speaker or earphone alarm volume. At the
minimum position, no sound can be heard.

Minimum Maximum

ALARM volume control

2-10 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

¡

!¡ MONITOR volume control

This control adjusts the speaker or earphone sound volume, excluding
the alarm sound. At the minimum position, no sound can be heard.

MONITOR

CH-1

MIX

CH-2

Minimum Maximum

MONITOR volume control

!™ MONITOR (audio channels select) switch

This switch selects the audio output to the speaker or earphone.

CH-1: Audio channel 1
MIX: Mixed sound of channels 1 and 2
CH-2: Audio channel 2

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-11

2

!

!

£

¢

Audio functions (4)

!£ Built-in speaker

During recording, the speaker can be used for monitoring the E-E sound 1),
and during playback for monitoring one or both audio channels. The
speaker also sounds alarms to reinforce visual warnings.
If an earphone is plugged into the EARPHONE jack, the speaker sound
is automatically cut off.

See Section 6-3 “Operation Warnings” (page 6-12) for information about alarms.

....................................................................................................................................

1) E-E sound (Electric to Electric sound)

The term E-E sound refers to an audio signal that has passed through the

amplifier, but has not been recorded on the tape. In other words, you can directly

monitor the recording input signal, as opposed to the simultaneous playback

(output) signal.

2-12 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

!¢ EARPHONE jack

Plugging an earphone into the jack automatically cuts off the built-in
speaker, and you hear the alarms about the camcorder’s operation and
status through the earphone.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-13

2-4 Shooting and Recording/

6

Playback Functions

2

1
2
3

4
5

7

8

9

Eyecup

!º

Shooting and recording/playback functions (1)

2-14 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

1 Viewfinder

The viewfinder lets you view the camera image in black and white while
shooting the picture and also see the playback picture from the VTR. It
also displays various warnings and other information, a zebra pattern 1),
safety zone marker 2), and center marker 3).

2 BRIGHT (brightness) control

This control adjusts the picture brightness on the viewfinder screen. It
has no effect on the camera output signal.

3 CONTRAST control

This control adjusts the picture contrast on the viewfinder screen. It has
no effect on the camera output signal.

4 PEAKING control

This control adjusts the sharpness of the picture on the viewfinder screen
to make focusing easier. It has no effect on the camera output signal.

....................................................................................................................................

1) Zebra pattern

The zebra pattern aids in manual iris adjustment by indicating areas of the

picture where the video level is approximately 70% IRE (for the DNW-7/90/

90WS/9WS) or 490 mV (for the DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/9WSP).

2) Safety zone marker

The safety zone marker is a rectangle indicating the effective picture area which

is equivalent to 80%, 90% (the factory setting) or 100% of the entire viewfinder

screen area. A setup menu lets you change the effective picture area from 90%

to 80% or 100%.

For more information, see Section 4-8-4 “Setting the Marker Display” (page

4-61).

3) Center marker

The center marker indicates the center of the picture with a crosshair.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-15

5 ZEBRA (zebra pattern) switch

This switch controls the zebra pattern on the viewfinder screen.

ON: The zebra pattern is displayed and stays.
OFF: No zebra pattern is displayed.

2

MOMENT: The zebra pattern is displayed and stays for a few seconds.
The zebra pattern display is factory set to indicate picture areas where
the video level is approximately 70% IRE (for the DNW-7/90/90WS/
9WS) or 490 mV (for the DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/9WSP).
It is possible to display an additional pattern, indicating areas of 100%
IRE (for the DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS) and above, or 700 mV (for the
DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/9WSP) and above.
The video levels to be indicated with these patterns can be changed.

For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.

6 Diopter adjustment ring

Use this ring to adjust the viewfinder image for your vision.

7 Viewfinder left-right positioning ring

Use this ring to move the viewfinder sideways.

8 Viewfinder front-rear positioning lever

Use this lever to move the viewfinder forward or backward.

9 Cameraman tally indicator

This indicator lights while the camcorder is operating.
Slide the window open when you shoot, keeping your eye away from the
viewfinder.

0 Viewfinder stopper

Pull this stopper up to detach the viewfinder from the camera.

2-16 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

2

!¡
!£

!¢
!∞
!§
!¶

!•

Shooting and record/playback functions (2)

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-17

!™

!ª

!¡ FILTER selector

This selector is a knob that selects the most appropriate filter to match
the light source. Note that if the display mode is set to 3 when this
selector is adjusted, the new setting will be indicated on the setting

2

change/adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder
screen for about 3 seconds (e.g.: FILTER: 3 ).

The relationships between the selector settings and filter selections as
well as examples of filters for different shooting conditions are given
below.

Filter knob setting and filter

Filter knob setting Filter

1 Straight through
2 5600K + 1/8 ND
3 5600 K
4 5600K + 1/64 ND

Examples of shooting conditions and appropriate filters

Shooting condition

Sunrise and sunset;
inside studio

Clear skies

Filter

1 (straight through)

1

2 (5600K +

/8 ND)

Cloudy or raining

Very bright conditions,
such as on snow, at
high altitudes, or at the
seashore

3 (5600K)

4 (5600K +

1

/64 ND)

2-18 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

!™ TURBO GAIN button

When shooting under extremely poor lighting conditions, slide the cover
of this button to the left and press the button once to boost the video gain
to the value preset with the menu (factory setting: 36 dB). To stop
boosting the gain, press the button once more or use the GAIN switch.
When the RM-P9 Remote Control Unit is connected to the camcorder,
you cannot use this button.

!£ WHITE BAL (white balance memory) switch
This switch determines the source of white balance settings.
PRST (preset): Adjusts the color temperature corresponding to the

position of the filter ring. Use the PRST setting when you have no

time to adjust the white balance.
A or B: When the AUTO W/B BAL switch is pushed to WHT, the white

balance is automatically adjusted according to the current position of

the filter ring, and the adjusted value is stored in either memory A or

memory B. (There are two memories for each filter, so a total of eight

adjustments can be stored.) When the two-part FILTER selector is in

the same position as at when the WHITE BAL switch was adjusted,

the stored value is called from memory, and the camcorder

automatically adjusts itself to that value.
B (ATW): When this switch is set to B whereas, in the setup menu

OPERATION MODE page, B CH is set to ATW1), the ATW is

activated.

You can use the AUTO W/B BAL switch even when the ATW is in use.
Note that if the display mode is set to 3 when this switch is adjusted, the
new setting will be indicated on the setting change/adjustment progress
message display area of the viewfinder screen for about 3 seconds (e.g.
WHITE = A CH).

....................................................................................................................................

1) ATW (Auto Tracing White balance)

The white balance of the picture being shot is ajusted automatically for the

varying lighting conditions.

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-19

2

!¢ OUTPUT/DCC (output signal/dynamic contrast control) selector

This selector switches the video signal that is output to the VTR,
viewfinder, and video monitor, between the color bar signal and the
camera output. It also switches DCC 1) on and off when output from the

2

camera is selected.

CAM, DCC ON

The video signal from the camera is output
and the DCC circuit operates.

•

•
ON

CAM

•

•
OFF

BARS

....................................................................................................................................

1) DCC (Dynamic Contrast Control)
Against a very bright background with the iris opening adjusted to the subject,
objects in the background will be lost in the glare. The DCC function will
restore much of the lost detail and is particularly effective in the following cases.

• Shooting a subject against a bright sky

• Shooting a subject indoors, against a background through a window

• Any high contrast scenes

CAM, DCC OFF

DCC

The video signal from the camera is output
and the DCC circuit does not operate.

BARS, DCC OFF

An SMPTE type or EBU type color bar signal is
output and the DCC circuit does not operate.
For example, use the setting for the following
purposes.

• Adjusting the video monitor

• Recording the color bar signal

OUTPUT/DCC selector

2-20 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

!∞ GAIN selector

This selector switches the gain of the video amplifier to match the
lighting conditions during shooting. The gains corresponding to the L, M,
and H settings are selected from the setup menu before use. The factory
settings are L = 0 dB, M = 9 dB, and H = 18 dB.
Note that if the display mode is set to 3 when this selector is adjusted, the
new setting will be indicated on the setting change/adjustment progress
message display area of the viewfinder screen for about 3 seconds (e.g.
GAIN: 12 dB).

For information about setting the gain values, see Section 4-9-1 “Setting the GAIN
Selector Values” (page 4-74).

!§ AUTO W/B BAL (automatic white/black balance adjustment)

switch

This switch activates the adjustment functions of the white balance and
black balance.
WHT: Automatic adjustment of the white balance. If the WHITE BAL

switch is set to A or B, the white balance setting is stored in the
corresponding memory. When the ATW setting is selected in the setup
menu, the white balance setting adjusted with this switch is not stored
in memory.

BLK: Automatic adjustment of the black set and the black balance. The

setting is stored in a separate memory.

!¶ SHUTTER selector

Set this selector to ON to use the electronic shutter. Set it to SEL to
switch the shutter speed or mode setting within the range that has been
previously set from the setup menu.
Note that if the display mode is set to 2 or 3 when this selector is adjusted,
the new setting will be indicated on the setting change/adjustment
progress message display area of the viewfinder screen for about 3
seconds (e.g.:SS: 1/250 or :CLS: 60.6 Hz).

For more information about the shutter speed and mode settings, see Section 4-2
“Setting the Electronic Shutter” (page 4-11).

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-21

!• REMOTE (remote control) connector (6-pin)

Connect the RM-P9 Remote Control Unit (not supplied) or VA-DN1
Camcorder Interface Adaptor (not supplied) to this connector.
By connecting a camcorder interface adaptor, you can control the VTR

2

from a 9-pin remote control device.

Notes

• When the RM-P9 Remote Control Unit is connected, the setup menu is

displayed on the monitor, regardless of the internal board setting.

• If the REMOTE and TEST OUT connectors are used at the same time,

it may not be possible to generate video signals at standard levels.

!ª VIDEO OUT (video output) connector (BNC type)

This connector outputs a composite signal (standard level, 75-ohm
terminated) to the video monitor. If the video monitor is connected here,
you can monitor the picture being shot by the camcorder as well as the
picture recorded by the VTR. When synchronizing the time code of an
external VTR with that of the camcorder, connect this connector to the
video input connector of the external VTR.

2-22 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

@º

Shooting and playback/record functions (3)

@º TEST OUT (test output) connector (BNC type)

This connector outputs the video signal (standard level, 75-ohm
terminated) for the video monitor. The output signal can be selected to
be a composite, R, G, or B. The factory setting is composite, and the
setting returns to composite whenever the power is switched on.
Depending on the internal board and setup menu settings, the setup
menu, the time code and the shot data can be displayed over the image
on the monitor. As for the VIDEO OUT connector, you can use this
connector for synchronizing the time code of an external VTR to the
time code of the camcorder.

For information about the setting for test output, see Section 4-9-3 “Selecting the
Test Output” (page 4-80).

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-23

2

@¡

@™

@£
@¢

D

F FW

)

REW

PLAY

0

EJECT

6

(

STOP

p

Opening the cover

Press on the tab.

Shooting and record/playback functions (4)

@¡ VTR START button

Press this button to start recording. Press it again to stop recording. The
effect is exactly the same as that of the VTR button on the lens.

2-24 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

@∞

@§
@¶

1

2

@™ VTR SAVE/STBY (VTR power saving/standby) switch

This switch controls the VTR power mode during pauses in recording
(REC PAUSE).
SAVE: Power saving mode. When you press the VTR START button,

there is a short delay before recording starts, but power consumption
is less than in standby mode, and battery life is extended. When the
switch is set to SAVE, the VTR SAVE indicator in the viewfinder
lights.

STBY: Standby mode. Recording starts as soon as you press the VTR

START button.

See Section 4-7-1 “Layout of Indicators in the Viewfinder” (page 4-45).

@£ EJECT (cassette eject) button

Press this button to eject or load a cassette.

@¢ REW (rewind) button and indicator

Press this button to rewind the tape. The indicator lights during
rewinding.

@∞ F FWD (fast forward) button and indicator

Press this button to fast forward the tape. The indicator lights during fast
forward.

@§ PLAY (playback) button and indicator

Press this button to view the recorded picture in the viewfinder or on a
color video monitor. The indicator lights during playback. The 5 times
normal speed search function is provided to make it far quicker to find a
desired location of the tape. Press the REW button or F FWD button
during playback to view the 5 times normal speed search picture.

2

@¶ STOP button

Press this button to stop the tape.

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-25

2-5 Setup Menu Operating

Section

2

1

2

3 4

Setup menu operating section

1 Setup card compartment

Open the cover and insert the BSC-1 Setup Card (not supplied) into the
slot with the “SONY” logo facing you.

2-26 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

2 Rotary encoder

When the cursor is aligned with the page title of a setup menu, pressing
the rotary encoder changes to the page switching mode. When the cursor
is other than on the page title, pressing the rotary encoder switches to the
mode in which you can change the value of the current menu setting.
To change the page or vary a setting value, turn the rotary encoder.

3 MENU ON/OFF/PAGE (menu display/paging) switch

This switch is used to display the setup menu on the viewfinder screen or
the test signal screen and to page through the menu items.
ON: Displays the setup menu on the viewfinder screen or the test signal

screen, at the page which was on the screen when the previous menu
access ended.(When the menu is first used, the first page is displayed.)
To enable the MENU CANCEL/PRST/ITEM switch, select this
position.

OFF: Removes the setup menu from the viewfinder screen or the test

signal screen.

PAGE: Every time this switch is pushed down from the ON position, the

next page of the setup menu is displayed.

4 MENU CANCEL/PRST/ITEM (menu setting cancellation/menu

presetting/item selection) switch

When the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch is set to ON, this switch is
used to select an item on the setup menu or erase shot ID characters.
CANCEL/PRST: Pushing the switch up to this position allows you to

cancel the previous settings, to reset the settings to their initial values,
or to erase shot ID characters.

ITEM: Every time the switch is pushed down to this position, the cursor

(arrow mark) in the page moves to the next item.

Note

Operation depends on the items displayed. Check the menu operation
that corresponds to the current item for details.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-27

2-6 Time Code System

4

2

Time code functions (1)

1 GENLOCK IN (genlock input) connector (BNC type)

• This connector inputs a reference signal when the camera is to be

genlocked, or when the time code is to be synchronized with external
equipment.

• This connector also inputs a return video signal.

1

2

3

2 TC IN (time code input) connector (BNC type)

To synchronize the time code with an external time code, connect the
reference time code input here.

2-28 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

3 TC OUT (time code output) connector (BNC type)

To synchronize the time code of an external VTR with that of the
camcorder, connect this connector to the time code input lock connector
of the external VTR.

4 TEST OUT (output) connector (BNC type)

To synchronize the time code of an external VTR with that of the
camcorder, set the test output signal to composite video and connect this
connector to the video input connector of the external VTR.

For information about setting the test output, see page 2-23.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-29

2

56 7

OTL TO DATA

HOLD

RESET

DISPLAY

OFF ON

LOD LIGHT WARNING

8
9

!º
!¡
!™

ADVANCE SHIFT

PRESET

REGEN

CLOCK

DF

NDF

F-RUN

SET

R-RUN

DIAG DATA

DISPLAY

U-BIT

SHOT

CH-1 CH-2

TIME
NO

LEVEL

100 100

AUTO

MANUAL

AUDIO SILECT

AUDIO IN

FRONT

REAR

WIRELESS

!£

Illustration: DNW-7/90/90WS (for the NTSC broadcast system)

Time code functions (2)

2-30 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

5 HOLD (display hold) button

Pressing this button instantly freezes the time data displayed in the
counter display section. (The time code generator continues normal
operation.) Pressing this button again releases the hold. One use of this
feature is to determine the exact time of a particular shot.

See Section 2-8 “Warnings and Indications on the Display Panel” (page 2-37) for
more information about the counter display.

6 RESET (counter reset) button

This button resets the time data displayed on the counter display section
to “00 : 00 : 00 : 00” and the user bit data to “00000000”.

7 DISPLAY switch

Depending on the settings of the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch and the
REAL TIME switch, this switch selects data to display in the counter
display section, as follows:

CTL: CTL
TC: Time code
DATA: The item selected by the DATA DISPLAY switch

For more information, see “Time code displays” (page 2-39).

8 ADVANCE button

For setting the time code or user bits, each press of this button
increments the flashing digit selected by the SHIFT button. Pressing this
button while holding down the HOLD button decrements the flashing
digit.
Hold down this button and press the SHIFT button to enter the VTR
menu mode.

For details about the VTR menu, see Section 4-10, “VTR Menu Display in the
Display Panel” (page 4-87).

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-31

9 SHIFT button

For setting the time code or user bits, this button selects the digit to be
changed. The selected digit flashes.

For more information, see Section 4-5-2 “Setting the Time Code” (page 4-27).

2

!º PRESET/REGEN (regeneration)/CLOCK switch

This switch determines the source of time code values.
PRESET: Starts recording time code values on the tape from the

currently set value. This enables the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch.

REGEN: Reads the existing time code on the tape, and sets the time

code starting value accordingly. Thus, even when there is an indefinite
break in recording, this setting ensures that time codes on the tape will
be continuous. Regardless of the setting of the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN
switch, the camcorder operates in R-RUN mode.

CLOCK: Makes the time code value coincide with the built-in clock.

Regardless of the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch setting, the camcorder
always operates in F-RUN mode.

!¡ F-RUN/SET/R-RUN (free run/set/recording run) switch

This switch selects the operating mode of the internal time code
generator.
F-RUN: The time code advances regardless of whether the VTR is

operating. Use this position for synchronizing the time code with an
external time code.

SET: Set the switch to this position to set the time code or user bits.
R-RUN: The time code advances only during recording, making the

time code on the tape continuous.

For more information, see Section 4-5-1 “Setting the User Bits” (page 4-25), and
Section 4-5-2 “Setting the Time Code” (page 4-27).

2-32 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

!™ DATA DISPLAY switch
U-BIT: Display the user bit value.
SHOT-TIME: Display the date and time from the shot data.
SHOT-NO.: Display the shot number from the shot data.

Using the VTR menu, it is possible to set the unit to display the real time in the LTC
user bits, or to record shot data in the VITC user bits. For details, see Section 4­10, “VTR Menu Display in the Display Panel” (page 4-87).

!£ DF/NDF (drop frame/non-drop frame) switch (DNW-7/90/90WS
only)

This switch selects whether the time code advances in drop frame mode
or non-drop frame mode.

DF: Drop frame mode
NDF: Non-drop frame mode

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-33

2-7 Warnings and Indications

The camcorder gives visual information and warnings without your
having to look in the viewfinder.

2

4

REGEN

PRESET

CLOCK

DF

NDF

2
3

1

F-RUN

SET

R-RUN

DIAG DATA

DISPLAY

U-BIT
SHOT

TIME
NO

5

6

7
8

9

Warning and indication functions

2-34 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

1 Tally indicator

Setting the TALLY switch to HIGH or LOW activates this indicator. The
indicator lights during recording on the VTR. It also provides the same
information as the REC indicator in the viewfinder: it comes on during
recording and flashes to indicate a problem.

2 DISPLAY switch

This switches the indications on the viewfinder screen on or off.

ON: The indications appear on the viewfinder screen.
OFF: The indications do not appear on the viewfinder screen.

3 TALLY switch

This switch controls the tally indicator, setting its brightness (HIGH or
LOW) or turning it off.

4 DIAG (diagnosis) button

Pressing this button when the VTR is stopped switches the camcorder to
the self-diagnosis mode. In the self-diagnosis mode, it is possible to
carry out a display panel test, a VTR test, or a camera test, and to display
the test result.
To exit from the self-diagnosis mode, press this button once more.

Refer to the Maintenance Manual for more information.

Caution

Do not press the DIAG button when a remote control unit is connected to
the REMOTE connector (6-pin). Pressing the button with a remote
control unit connected will disturb both the self-diagnostic and remote
control functions. The only remedy for this disturbance is to disconnect
the remote control unit and turn off the camcorder POWER switch.

2

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-35

5 Back tally indicator

This indicator functions exactly the same way as the front tally indicator
when the back tally switch is set to ON.

2

6 Back tally switch

This switch turns the back tally indicator on and off.

7 WARNING indicator

This indicator lights up or flashes when there is a fault in the VTR.

See Section 6-3 “Operation Warnings” (page 6-12) for more information about the
relationships between the operation of the indicator and the meanings of the
indications.

8 LCD LIGHT switch

This switch turns the display panel illumination on and off.

9 Display panel

VTR error messages, battery status, tape status, audio level, time data,
and so forth are displayed on this panel.

For more information, see Section 2-8 “Warnings and Indications on the Display
Panel” (page 2-37).

2-36 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

2-8 Warnings and Indications

on the Display Panel

Tape status, battery status and level indicators

Audio channel 1 level meter

Audio channel 2 level meter

OVER

EMPH

0

V

10

H

20

30
40

∞

PEAK dB

12

OVER

Fully charged

Full (at beginning)

HOLDDIAG PB VITC NDF EXT-LK

00:00:00:00

HMINSEC FRM

TAPE E B

ppppppp

BATT E ppppppp

RF SERVO HUMID SLACK

F

Battery status indicator

BATT E ppppppp F

Nearly dead: “BATT” flashes.
Dead (battery must be charged):
“BATT” and “E” flash.

Tape status indicator

TAPE E Bppppppp

Close to end: “TAPE” flashes.
End (tape must be replaced):

“TAPE” and “E” flash.

2

Tape status, battery status and level indicators

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-37

VTR operation and status indicators

Lights in the self-diagnostic mode (testing

2

Lights during playback.

00:00:00:00

TAPE E B
BATT E ppppppp

RF SERVO HUMID SLACK

Warning indicators

RF: Lights if the recording heads are clogged.
SERVO: Lights if the servo motor fails.
HUMID: Lights if condensation is on the drum.
SLACK: Lights if the tape is not winding properly.

For more information, see Section 6-3 “Operation Warnings” (page 6-12).

VTR operation and status indicators

Note

If the tape in the VTR is slacked, an error code appears in the display
section of the display panel.

For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.

display panel, camera, and VTR).

For more information, see Section 6-3
“Operation Warnings” (page 6-12).

OVER

EMPH

HOLDDIAG PB VITC NDF EXT-LK

0

V

10

HMINSEC FRM

ppppppp

H

F

12

20

30
40

∞

PEAK dB

OVER

2-38 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

Time code displays

Lights in playback mode.

Lights when VITC is selected
for the time code.

Lights in non-drop frame mode
(DNW-7/90/90WS only).

Lights when the camcorder is synchronized
with an external time code.

Lights when the time code
generator is on hold.

OVER

EMPH

0

V

10

H

20

30
40

∞

PEAK dB

12

OVER

00:00:00:00

HMINSEC FRM

TAPE E B

ppppppp

BATT E ppppppp

RF SERVO HUMID SLACK

HOLDDIAG PB VITC NDF EXT-LK

F

Lights when the time code,
CTL, or real time is displayed.

Lights when the HOLD
button is pressed.

Time counter display: Shows the time code,
CTL, user bits, and real time.

The table on the next page lists the
details of the displayed items and
switch settings.

2

Time code displays

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-39

Relationships between the DISPLAY switch and DATA
DISPLAY switch settings and the time counter displays

Except during setting of the time code, the time counter display is
determined by the positions of the DISPLAY switch and DATA

2

DISPLAY switch.

For details of setting the time code menu operation, see Section 4-5-2, “Setting the
Time Code” (page 4-27).

Switch settings relating to time code and displayed information

DISPLAY
switch position

CTL
TC Time code
DATA

DATA DISPLAY
switch position

Any position
Any position
U-BIT
SHOT-TIME

SHOT-NO.

Displayed
information

CTL

User bits
Date and time from

shot data
Shot number from shot

data

2-40 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

3-1 About Cassettes

This section describes the procedure for loading and unloading a
cassette.

See “Specifications” (page A-1) for information about the cassettes you can use in
the camcorder.

3-1-1 Loading and Unloading a Cassette

Loading a cassette

Note

If you insert a cassette which has been rewound on a rewinder with no
beginning-of-tape detector into this unit, the “SLACK” indication may
appear to indicate a tape take-up failure. If this happens, press the
EJECT button to eject the cassette, then turn the take-up reel about three
whole turns, and reinsert the cassette.

1 Turn on the POWER switch.

3

Recording and Playback

POWER switch

HUMID display
If the interior of the VTR section is damp, the HUMID indicator will light. If

this happens, wait until the indicator goes off before going on to step 2.

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-1

LOCK

(Continued)

2 Press the EJECT button.

The cassette lid will open.

3

Cassette lid

3 Check that there is no slack in the tape, then slide in the cassette

until it clicks into position, and close the cassette lid completely by
pressing near the engraved “PUSH”.

Insert the cassette.

Window outward

3-2 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

1

2

Push and close the
cassette lid.

Checking the tape for slack

Pressing in the reels lightly, turn them gently with your fingers in the
directions shown below. If the reels will not move, there is no slack.

Checking the tape for slack

Unloading a cassette

With the power supply on, press the EJECT button to open the cassette
lid, then take out the cassette. If you are not going to insert another
cassette, close the cassette lid.
It is possible to take out the cassette and close the cassette lid unless the
battery voltage drops below about 9 V.

3

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-3

Unloading a cassette manually

If the battery voltage drops below about 9V, take out the cassette
manually as illustrated below.

3

Cassette lid

1 Turn the power off.
2 Open this rubber cover.
3 Pushing on the screw inside

with a screwdriver, turn the
screw clockwise until the
cassette lid opens.

4 Stop turning the screw as

soon as the cassette lid
opens.

Unloading a cassette manually

You cannot lock the cassette lid after taking out the cassette, but turning
on the power makes the cassette lid operable again.

3-1-2 Preventing Accidental Erasure

The following procedure prevents cassettes from being recorded
inadvertently.

Push the plug in.
To reuse the cassette,
return the plug to its
original position.

Preventing accidental erasure

3-4 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

3-2 Recording

3-2-1 Basic Procedure

This section describes the basic procedure for shooting and recording.
Before a shooting session, make the checks listed in Section 6-1 “Testing
the Camcorder Before Shooting” (page 6-1) to ensure that the camcorder
is functioning properly.

Turning on the camcorder and loading a cassette

Follow the procedure below.

3

4

Basic procedure for shooting : from power supply to cassette loading

1 Load a fully charged battery pack.
2 Set the POWER switch to ON. Check that the HUMID indicator

does not appear and that the BATT indicator shows at least five
segments. When using a BP-L60/L90 battery pack, check that the
four LED indicator segments on the battery pack are lit.

• If the HUMID indicator appears, wait until it disappears.

• If the BATT indicator does not show at least five segments,
replace the battery pack with a fully charged one.

1

2

3

3 Check that there are no obstructions near the cassette lid, then press

the EJECT button to open the cassette lid.

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-5

(Continued)

4 After checking the points below load the cassette, and close the

cassette lid.

• The cassette is not write-protected.

• There is no slack in the tape.

• The leader tape is wound on the take-up reel.

Basic procedure for shooting : from adjusting the

3

black balance and white balance to stopping recording

After turning on the power and loading a cassette, set the switches and
selectors as shown below and begin operation.

DISPLAY: ON

Iris: Automatic

Zoom: Automatic

GAIN: Set as
low as possible.

Switch and selector settings before shooting

3-6 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

OUTPUT/
DCC: CAM,
DCC ON

AUDIO SELECT
CH-1/CH-2: AUTO

F-RUN/SET/R-RUN:
F-RUN or R-RUN
(set as needed)

Shooting

Follow the procedure below.

3,5 2

4

5,6

3

1,2

Basic procedure for shooting: from adjusting the black balance and

white balance to stopping recording

1 Push the AUTO W/B BAL switch to BLK to adjust the black

balance.

2 Select the filter to match the lighting conditions, and adjust the white

balance.

(Continued)

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-7

When the black balance and white balance settings are already
in memory:

Set the WHITE BAL switch to A or B.

When the white balance setting is not in memory and you do not
have enough time to adjust the white balance:

3

Set the WHITE BAL switch to the PRST position. The white
balance is automatically set to 3200 K when the FILTER knob is in
position 1, and to 5600 K in other positions.

For more information, see Section 4-1-2 “Adjusting the White Balance” (page
4-5).

3 Aim the camera at the object, and adjust the focus and zoom.
4 If necessary, set the electronic shutter for an appropriate mode and

speed.

For more information, see Section 4-2 “Setting the Electronic Shutter” (page
4-11).

5 To start recording, press the VTR START button or the VTR button

on the lens.

During recording, the REC indicator in the viewfinder goes on.
Perform zooming and focus control, if necessary.

6 To stop recording, press the VTR START button or the VTR button

on the lens again.

The REC indicator goes off.

Cassette control buttons

During recording, the cassette control buttons (EJECT, REW, F FWD,
PLAY, STOP) have no effect.

3-8 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

3-2-2 Continuous Recording

If the camcorder is in the recording pause mode, simply pressing the
VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on the lens
continues recording at exactly the next frame.
In other cases, you first need to position the tape at an appropriate point
to prevent the recording continuity from being lost.

When the camcorder is in the recording pause mode

Pressing the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on
the lens positions the tape at the appropriate point automatically.
However, the time taken before recording starts depends on the setting of
the VTR SAVE/STBY switch.

• If the VTR SAVE/STBY switch is in the SAVE position, it takes about
4 seconds before recording starts.

• If the VTR SAVE/STBY switch is in the STBY position, recording
starts immediately. However, just after the switch position is changed
from SAVE to STBY, it takes about 4 seconds before recording starts.

3

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-9

If you turn off the power during a recording pause

Follow the procedure below to continue recording.

3

1 32

Continuous recording after turning off the power during a recording pause

1 Turn on the power again.
2 Press the RET button on the lens. (Make sure that CAM RET. is set

to OFF on the FUNCTION 2/2 page of the setup menu.

For more information, see Section 4-9-2 “Selecting the Functions”
(page 4-76).)

The camcorder positions the tape at the appropriate point. Note,
however, that this function works only for continuously recorded
material or consecutively joined segments totaling at least 4 seconds
in length.

3 Press the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button

on the lens to start recording.

3-10 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

Continuous recording in other cases

After rewinding or fast forward, after removing the cassette, or on a tape
that has been partially recorded, you can obtain a continuous recording
by following the procedure below.

21

43

Continuous recording after rewinding or fast forward, after removing the

cassette, or on a tape that has been partly recorded

1 Looking in the viewfinder, press the PLAY button to start playback.
2 Press the STOP button at the desired point to begin recording. To

continue from the end of recording already on the tape, press the
STOP button immediately after the end of the previous recording
(within 0.5 seconds).

3 Press the RET button on the lens. (Make sure that CAM RET. is set

to OFF on the FUNCTION 2/2 page of the setup menu. For more
information, see Section 4-9-2 “Selecting the Functions” (page 4-

76).)

3

The tape will rewind and will be positioned at the desired point to
continue recording in about 7 seconds.

4 Press the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button

on the lens to start recording.

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-11

3-2-3 Recording Good Shot Markers

It is possible to record a good shot marker on tape by pressing the RET
button on the lens during recording.
Press the RET button once to record shot marker 1. On the viewfinder
screen, “r” and the time code of the marked point are displayed for
about 3 seconds. Press the RET button twice successively to record shot

3

marker 2. On the viewfinder screen, “G” and the time code of the
marked point are displayed for about 3 seconds.
Recording shot markers 1 and 2 for scenes containing important image
and sound enables quick access to the marked points, for efficient
editing. For shot marker operations, refer to the manual for your VTR.
A setting in the VTR menu determines whether or not good shot markers
are recorded. (Factory settings allow recording of both shot markers 1
and 2.)

For details, see Section 4-10, “VTR Menu Display in the Display Panel” (page 4-

87).

3-2-4 Recording a Recording Start Marker

It is possible to record a recording start marker at the beginning of
recording.
Using recording start markers enables quick access to the marked points,
for efficient editing. For recording start marker operations, refer to the
manual for your VTR.
A setting in the VTR menu determines whether or not recording start
markers are recorded. (Factory settings allow automatic recording of
recording start markers.)

For details, see Section 4-10, “VTR Menu Display in the Display Panel” (page 4-

87).

3-12 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

3-3 Checking the Recording

— Playback

By pressing the PLAY button, you can review any length of the
recording in the viewfinder in black and white. There are two other ways
to review the recording.

• Recording review: You can see the last 2 seconds of the recording in

the viewfinder in black and white.

• Color playback: You can see the recording in color on a color video

monitor without the need for any external adaptor.

You can also view the picture by pressing the REW button or F FWD
button during playback.

See Section 2-3 “Audio Functions” (page 2-5), for information about the switches
and controls used to select the audio output signal and to adjust the audio level.

3-3-1 Checking the Last Two Seconds of the

Recording — Recording Review

If you press the RET button on the lens while recording is paused, the
last two seconds of the tape is automatically rewound, and that segment
is played back on the viewfinder screen. Use this function to check
whether recording went smoothly. If you hold the RET button down
longer, at most 10 seconds of the tape is rewound and played back.
After playback, the camcorder is ready to start recording again.

Set CAM RET. to OFF on the FUNCTION 2/2 page of the setup menu
when inputting a return video signal to the GENLOCK IN connector.

For information about setting the CAM RET. function, see Section 4-9-2 “Selecting
the Functions” (page 4-76).

3

Note

The recording review function only works if the recording you have
made is at least 2 seconds long.

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback 3-13

3-3-2 Checking the Recording on the Color

Video Monitor — Playback in Color

Connect a color video monitor to the VIDEO OUT connector of the
camcorder, and press the PLAY button.

3

DNW-7/7P/90/90P/
90WS/90WSP series

3-14 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

VIDEO OUT

Color playback

Color video monitor

Video input
connector

4-1 Adjusting the Black

Balance and the White
Balance

Conditions may require that both the black balance and the white balance
be adjusted.

The black balance will require adjustment in the following cases.

• When the camcorder is first used

• When the camcorder has not been used for a long time

• When the camcorder is used under conditions in which the surrounding
temperature has changed greatly

• When the GAIN selector values have been changed

It is not usually necessary to adjust the black balance when using the
camcorder after it has been briefly off.

Always readjust the white balance when the lighting conditions change.

If the black balance or white balance adjustment is started when the
display mode is set to 2 or 3, messages that report on the adjustment
progress and results are displayed on the viewfinder screen. Change the
display mode to 1 to suppress these messages.

For information about setting the display mode, see Section 4-8-3 “Display Mode
and Setting Change and Adjustment Progress Messages” (page 4-58).

Note

The black balance and white balance cannot be adjusted while the setup
menu is displayed on the viewfinder screen. Always set the MENU ON/
OFF/PAGE switch to OFF before starting these adjustments.

4

Adjustments and Settings for Recording

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-1

4-1-1 Adjusting the Black Balance

In automatic black balance mode, the black balance is adjusted after the
black set is adjusted.
Manual black balance adjustment can be selected from the setup menu.

Refer to the Maintenance Manual for information about manual black balance
adjustment.

Follow the procedure below to adjust the black balance.

4

1 Set the switches as follows:

GAIN: Set as low
as possible.

If you change the setting of the GAIN selector, a message reporting
the set position appears in the setting change and adjustment
progress message display area of the viewfinder screen for about 3
seconds (in display mode 3).

4-2 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

OUTPUT/DCC: CAM

MENU ON/OFF/PAGE: OFF

2 Push the AUTO W/B BAL switch to BLK, and release the switch.

AUTO W/B BAL switch

The switch returns to the center position, and the adjustment is
completed.

During adjustment, the following messages are displayed on the
viewfinder screen (in display mode 2 or 3).

The messages change in the following
sequence : -BLACK SET- →

-BLACK BAL-

BLACK : OP

-BLACK SET-

Message during adjustment

....................................................................................................................................

1) If the existing black balance adjustment is satisfactory, the message “BLACK

BAL” may not appear, that is, the automatic black balance adjustment may be
omitted to save time.

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-3

1)

→ -CHECK-

(Continued)

4

The black balance adjustment ends in a few seconds with the
message “BLACK : OK,” and the adjustment setting is
automatically stored in memory.

Notes

• During the black balance adjustment, the iris is automatically closed.

• During the black balance adjustment, the gain selection circuit is
automatically activated so you may see flickering on the viewfinder
screen, but this is not a fault.

4

If automatic black balance adjustment cannot be made

If the black balance adjustment cannot be completed normally, an error
message will appear for about 3 seconds on the viewfinder screen (in
display mode 2 or 3).
Possible messages are listed on the next page.

Black balance adjustment error messages

Error message

BLACK : NG
IRIS NOT CLOSED

BLACK : NG
R (or G or B) : TIME LIMIT

BLACK : NG
R (or G or B) : OVERFLOW

Meaning

The lens iris did not close; adjustment was
impossible.

Adjustment could not be completed within
the standard number of attempts.

The difference between the reference value
and the current value is so great that it
exceeds the range. Adjustment was
impossible.

If any of the above error messages is displayed, retry the black balance
adjustment. If the error message occurs again, an internal check is
necessary.

Refer to the Maintenance Manual for information about this internal check.

Note

The black balance cannot be adjusted while the setup menu is displayed
on the viewfinder screen. Always set the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch
to OFF before starting these adjustments.

4-4 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

Black balance memory

Values stored in memory are held until the black balance is next
adjusted.

If a memory error occurs

If the error message “: STORED DATA : NG” flashes on the viewfinder
screen when the camcorder is turned on, the black balance memory
content has been lost.
Adjust the black balance again. Contact your Sony representative if this
message continues to appear even after the black balance has been
adjusted again.

For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.

4-1-2 Adjusting the White Balance

Follow the procedure below to automatically adjust the white balance.

1 Set the switches as follows:

GAIN: Set as low as possible.

OUTPUT/DCC: CAM

WHITE BAL: A or B

a)When “WHITE BCH” in

a)

the OPERATION
MODE page of the
menu is set to “AWB”.

4

MENU ON/OFF/PAGE: OFF

(Continued)

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-5

If the setting of the GAIN selector or WHITE BAL switch is
changed, a message reporting the set position appears for about 3
seconds in the setting change and adjustment progress message
display area of the viewfinder screen (in display mode 3).

2 Adjust the FILTER selector to suit the lighting conditions.

The relationships between the various selector settings and filter
selections are listed in the tables below.

4

Filter selector setting and filter

Filter selector setting Filter

1 3200K
2 5600K + 1/8 ND
3 5600K
4 5600K + 1/64 ND

For examples of FILTER selector settings, see the description of the FILTER
selector in Section 2-4 “Shooting and Recording/Playback Functions” (page
2-14).

If the setting of the FILTER selector is changed, a message reporting
the setting appears for about 3 seconds in the setting change and
adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder screen
(in display mode 3).

4-6 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

3 Place a white test card under the same lighting conditions as the

subject to be shot, and zoom up to it. Alternatively, any white object
such as a cloth or a wall could be used.

The absolute minimum white area is as follows:

Rectangle centered on the screen:
the lengths of the sides are 70% of
the length or the width of the screen.

The white object must be within
the rectangle and have an area of
at least 10% of the screen.

Note

Make sure there are no bright spots in
the rectangle.

4 Adjust the lens iris.

If the lens is manually adjusted, adjust it as appropriate. If the lens
has an automatic iris, set the automatic/manual switch on the lens to
automatic.

5 Push the AUTO W/B BAL switch to WHT, and release the switch.

4

AUTO W/B BAL switch

(Continued)

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-7

4

The switch returns to the center position, and the adjustment is
completed.

During adjustment, the message “WHITE : OP” is displayed on the
viewfinder screen (in display mode 2 or 3).

The white balance adjustment ends in a second with the message
“WHITE : OK”, and the adjustment setting is automatically stored
in the memory (A or B) that was selected in step 1.

WHITE : OK

K

Approximate color temperature
of the object

Note

If the camera has a zoom lens with an automatic iris, the iris may hunt
during the adjustment. To prevent this, adjust the iris gain knob (marked
with IG, IS, or S) on the lens.

For more information, refer to the lens operation manual.

....................................................................................................................................

1) Hunting

Repeated brightening and darkening of an image, resulting from repeated
responses to automatic iris control.

4-8 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

1)

If automatic white balance adjustment cannot be made

If the white balance adjustment cannot be completed normally, an error
message will appear for about 3 seconds on the viewfinder screen (in
display mode 2 or 3).
Possible messages are listed below.

White balance adjustment error messages

Error message

WHITE : NG
LOW LEVEL

WHITE : NG
COLOR TEMP. HIGH

WHITE : NG
COLOR TEMP. LOW

WHITE : NG
TIME LIMIT

WHITE : NG
POOR WHITE AREA

WHITE : NG
LEVEL TOO HIGH

If any of the above error messages is displayed, retry the white balance
adjustment. If the error message occurs again, an internal check is
necessary.

Refer to the Maintenance Manual for information about this internal check.

Note

The white balance cannot be adjusted while the setup menu is displayed
on the viewfinder screen. Always set the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch
to OFF before starting these adjustments.

Meaning

The white video level is too low. Either make the
lighting brighter or increase the gain.

The color temperature is too high. Select a
suitable filter setting.

The color temperature is too low. Select a
suitable filter setting.

Adjustment could not be completed within the
standard number of attempts.

The white area could not be checked.

The white video level is too high. Either narrow
the lens iris opening or change the ND filter.

4

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-9

If you have no time to adjust the white balance

Set the WHITE BAL switch to PRST. The white balance is
automatically set to 3200 K when the FILTER selector is in position 1,
and to 5600 K in other positions.

White balance memory

Values stored in memory are held until the white balance is next
adjusted.
There are two sets of white balance memories, A and B, and adjustments

4

for each of the filters can be automatically stored in the memory
corresponding to the setting (A or B) of the WHITE BAL switch. The
camcorder has four built-in filters, so a total of eight (4 × 2) adjustments
can be stored. The number of memories allocated each A and B can be
limited to one each by setting FILTER INH. to ON on the FUNCTION
2/2 page of the setup menu. In this case, the memory contents are not
linked to the filters.
When the WHITE BAL switch is set to B whereas, in the setup menu
OPERATION MODE page, “B CH” is set to ATW, the ATW function is
activated to automatically adjust the white balance of the picture being
shot for varying lighting conditions.

If a memory error occurs

If the error message “: STORED DATA : NG” flashes on the viewfinder
screen when the camcorder is turned on, the white balance memory
content has been lost.
Adjust the black balance and the white balance again. Contact your Sony
representative if this message continues to appear even after the black
balance and the white balance have been adjusted again.

For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.

4-10 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

4-2 Setting the Electronic

Shutter

This section describes the shutter modes that can be used with the
electronic shutter of the camcorder, and describes the procedure for
selecting the shutter speed and mode.

4-2-1 Shutter Modes

The shutter modes that can be used with the electronic shutter and the
shutter speeds that can be selected are listed below.

Selectable shutter modes and speeds

Mode

Standard

CLS
(Clear
Scan)

Shutter speed

DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS: 1/
100, 1/125,1/250, 1/500, 1/
1000, or 1/2000 sec.

DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/
9WSP: 1/60, 1/125, 1/250, 1/
500, 1/1000, or 1/2000 sec.

DNW-7: 263 speeds in the
range of 60.0 Hz to 10156
Hz

DNW-90/90WS/9WS: 260
speeds in the range of 60.1
Hz to 7000Hz

DNW-7P: 312 speeds in
the range of 50.0 Hz to
10101 Hz

DNW-90P/90WSP/9WSP:
310 speeds in the range of

50.2 Hz to 9000 Hz

Application

For shooting fast-moving subjects
with little blurring.

For shooting subjects such as
monitor screens with vertical
scanning frequencies of over 60
Hz (DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS) or
over 50 Hz
(DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/9WSP), to
obtain images with no horizontal
bands of noise.

(Continued)

4

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-11

Mode ApplicationShutter speed

4

ECS
(Extended
Clear
Scan) (For
DNW-90/
90P/90WS/
90WSP
only)

EVS
(Enhanced
Vertical
Definition)

DNW-90/90WS: 248
speeds in the range of 30.4
Hz to 58.3 Hz

DNW-90P/90WSP: 295
speeds in the range of 25.4
Hz to 48.7 Hz

DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS: 1/
60 sec. (automatic setting)

DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/
9WSP: 1/50 sec.
(automatic setting)

For shooting subjects such as
monitor screens with vertical
scanning frequencies of up to 60
Hz (DNW-90/90WS) or up to 50
Hz (DNW-90P/90WSP), to obtain
images with no horizontal bands
of noise.

Improved vertical resolution. In
the case of the DNW-7/7P/9WS/
9WSP, the sensitivity of the CCD
is reduced to half.

Notes

• Whatever the operating mode of the electronic shutter, the sensitivity
of the CCD decreases with increasing shutter speed.

• When the automatic iris is used, the iris opens wider and wider as the
shutter speed increases, thus reducing the depth of field.

• Under artificial light, particularly fluorescent or mercury lamps, the
light intensity may appear to be constant, but the strengths of each of
the R, G and B colors are actually changing in synchronization with the
frequency of the power supply (“flicker”). Using an electronic shutter
under such lighting could make the flicker even worse. Color flicker is
particularly likely to happen when the power supply is 60 Hz (with the
DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS) or 50 Hz (with the DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/
9WSP). However, if the power frequency is 50 Hz (DNW-7/90/90WS/
9WS) or 60 Hz (DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/9WSP), setting the shutter
speed to 1/100 or 1/60 can reduce this flicker.

• When a bright object is shot in EVS mode or ECS mode (DNW-90/
90P/90WS/90WSP only) in such a manner that it fills the screen, the
upper edge of the picture may have poor quality because of an inherent
characteristic of CCD. Before using EVS mode, check the shooting
conditions.

4-12 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

• When using the electronic shutter, set FIELD/FRAME to FLD (field
accumulation mode) on the FUNCTION 2/2 page of the setup menu.

4-2-2 Selecting the Shutter Mode and Speed

Use the SHUTTER selector to select a shutter mode or a standard-mode
shutter speed. To set the shutter speed in CLS/ECS mode, with the
SHUTTER switch set to ON and the CLS/ECS mode selected, turn the
rotary encoder.
You can use the SHUTTER SPEED page of the setup menu to narrow
the range of choice in advance, or to select in advance whether you use
CLS, ECS or EVS mode.

Setting the shutter mode and standard-mode shutter
speed

1 Follow the procedure described in “Changing the display mode”

(page 4-60) to set the display mode to 2 or 3 from the VF DISPLAY
page of the setup menu.

2 Open the SHUTTER selector cover, then push the SHUTTER

selector from ON to SEL.

4

SHUTTER selector

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-13

(Continued)

The current shutter setting appears for about 3 seconds in the setting
change and adjustment progress message display area of the
viewfinder screen.
E.g.: SS : 1/250 or : CLS : 60.6 Hz

3 Before the message from step 2 disappears, push the SHUTTER

selector to SEL again and repeat until the desired mode or speed
appears.

4

Pushing the SHUTTER selector to SEL repeatedly allows you to
cycle through the settings of mode and speed preselected on the
SHUTTER SPEED page of the setup menu.
Note that all modes and all standard-mode speeds listed in the table
on page 4-12 are preselected using the SHUTTER SPEED page of
the setup menu.

For more information about the SHUTTER SPEED page, see “Changing the
range of choice of shutter mode and speed settings” (page 4-17).

Standard mode

1/100 (or 1/60) 1/20001/10001/5001/2501/125

CLS/ECS mode

a) Either CLS mode or ECS mode (DNW-90/90P/90WS/90WSP only) is

selected depending on the shutter speed set in the setup menu CLEAR
SCAN page.

Selectable settings of shutter mode and speed (factory setting)

a)

EVS mode

Once a shutter speed is selected, it is maintained until the next shutter
speed setting operation.
When the message “STORED DATA:NG” appears, the shutter speed
returns to 1/100 s (DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS) or 1/60 s (DNW-7P/90P/
90WSP/9WSP).

4-14 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

Setting the shutter speed in CLS mode

Follow the procedure below.

1 2

Setting the shutter speed in CLS mode

1 Set the shutter speed mode to CLS.

CLS:60.0Hz

The value indicated differs between camcorder models.

CLEAR SCAN page (factory settings)

4

(Continued)

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-15

2 Turn the rotary encoder counterclockwise as seen from the front of

the camera to increase the value, or clockwise to decrease the value,
until the desired frequency appears.

The frequency ranges as follows.
DNW-7: 60.0 Hz to 10156 Hz in 263 steps
DNW-90/90WS: 60.1 Hz to 7000 Hz in 260 steps, and

30.4 Hz to 58.3 Hz in 248 steps

4

DNW-9WS: 60.1 Hz to 7000 Hz in 260 steps

DNW-7P: 50.0 Hz to 10101 Hz in 312 steps
DNW-90P/90WSP: 50.2 Hz to 9000 Hz in 310 steps, and

25.4 Hz to 48.7 Hz in 295 steps

DNW-9WSP: 50.2 Hz to 9000 Hz in 310 steps

Pressing the MENU CANCEL/PRST/ITEM switch toward the
CANCEL/PRST position returns the setting to the default value,

60.0 Hz (DNW-7)/60.1 Hz (DNW-90/90WS/9WS) or 50.0 Hz
(DNW-7P)/50.2 Hz (DNW-90P/90WSP/9WSP).

When the RM-P9 Remote Control Unit is connected

You can set the shutter speed using the UP/DOWN switch of the RM-P9.
In this case, however, the setting does not appear on the viewfinder
screen.

4-16 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

Changing the range of choice of shutter mode and
speed settings

You can reduce the time required to select the shutter mode and speed by
narrowing the choice of settings in advance. This can be done by using
the SHUTTER SPEED page of the setup menu.
Follow the procedure below.

Note

The SHUTTER SPEED page cannot be accessed when a remote control
unit is connected to the camcorder.

1,2,3,5

2,3,4

Changing the range of choice of shutter mode and speed settings

1 Set the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch to ON.

The page that was on the screen when the last menu operation ended
appears on the viewfinder screen. (When this menu is first used, the
lowest-numbered page of the currently selected pages for
configuring the menu appears.)

4

2 Push the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch repeatedly to PAGE until

the FUNCTION 2/2 page shown on the next page appears (or use
the rotary encoder).

(Continued)

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-17

SHUTTER SPEED

∗∗∗

EVS

m

CLS
1/100
1/125
1/250
1/500
1/1000
1/2000

∗∗∗

: ON
: ON

a)

: ON
: ON
: ON
: ON
: ON
: ON

EVS mode
CLS mode

Shutter speeds selectable
in standard mode

4

a) 1/100 for DNW-7/90/90WS/9WS or 1/60 for DNW-7P/90P/90WSP/9WSP

SHUTTER SPEED page (factory settings)

3 Push the MENU CANCEL/PRST/ITEM switch repeatedly to ITEM

until the cursor reaches the mode or shutter speed you want (or use
the rotary encoder).

4 To use the selected mode or speed (the “ON” setting), turn the rotary

encoder counterclockwise as seen from the front of the camera. In
order not to use it (the “OFF” setting), turn the rotary encoder
clockwise.

Note that pushing the MENU CANCEL/PRST/ITEM switch to
CANCEL/PRST has no effect on the SHUTTER SPEED page.

To select another mode or speed, return to step 3.

5 To end the menu operation, set the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch to

OFF.

The setup menu disappears from the viewfinder screen and the
display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along
the top and bottom of the viewfinder.

4-18 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

4-3 Changing the Reference

Value for Automatic Iris
Adjustment

The reference value for automatic iris adjustment can be changed to
enable the shooting of clear pictures of back-lit subjects, or to obtain
special effects. The reference value for the lens iris can be set within the
following range with respect to the standard value as defined by an F
number.

• 0.5: about 0.5 stop further open

• 0.25: about 0.25 stop further open

• −0.25: about 0.25 stop further closed

• −0.5: about 0.5 stop further closed

To change the reference value, set A. IRIS OVERRIDE to ON (factory
setting is OFF) on the FUNCTION 2/2 page of the setup menu.

The reference value is normally set to the standard value. Even if the
reference value is changed, it reverts to the standard value every time the
power is turned on.

Opening or closing the lens iris

1 Set the MENU ON/OFF/PAGE switch to OFF to close the menu.
2 • To open the iris by 0.25 stop: turn the rotary encoder

counterclockwise as seen from the front of the camera.
One bar appears in the upper part to the left of the F number in the
iris indication.

• To open the iris by 0.5 stop: turn the rotary encoder further
counterclockwise as seen from the front of the camera.
Two bars appear in the upper part to the left of the F number in the
iris indication.

(Continued)

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-19

4

4

• To close the iris by 0.25 stop: turn the rotary encoder clockwise as
seen from the front of the camera.
One bar appears in the lower part to the left of the F number in the
iris indication.

• To close the iris by 0.5 stop: turn the rotary encoder further
clockwise as seen from the front of the camera.
Two bars appear in the lower part to the left of the F number in the
iris indication.

F5 . 6

Opening the lens iris

Iris opened by 0.5 stop
(two bars)

F5 . 6

Iris opened by 0.25 stop
(one bar)

Closing the lens iris

Iris closed by 0.5 stop
(two bars)

F5 . 6

Iris closed by 0.25 stop
(one bar)

Opening or closing the lens iris

4-20 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

When the RM-P9 Remote Control Unit is connected

The IRIS control knob of the RM-P9 can be used for lens iris setting.
The bar display (π) will not appear, however.

4

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-21

4-4 Adjusting the Audio Level

If you set the AUDIO SELECT CH-1/CH-2 switches to AUTO, the input
levels for the corresponding channels are adjusted automatically.

Follow the procedure below to manually adjust the level for both audio
channels.

4

Audio level manual adjustment

1 Set the AUDIO SELECT CH-1/CH-2 switches to MANUAL.
2 Adjust the AUDIO LEVEL CH-1/CH-2 controls so that at the

maximum sound level the level meter indicates −20 dB.

4-22 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

2

1