Sony DSC-S500 Operating Instruction

Digital Still Camera

Preparation

Shoot images easily
(Auto adjustment mode)

Instruction Manual

DSC-S500

Before operating the unit, please read this
manual and “Cyber-shot Handbook” (PDF) on
CD-ROM (supplied) thoroughly, and retain it
for future reference.

Owner’s Record

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

Model No. DSC-S500

Serial No. ___________________

Additional information on this product and answers to

frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer

Support Website.

http://www.sony.net/

View/delete images

Printing images

Troubleshooting

Others

2-689-529-11(1)© 2006 Sony Corporation

Trademarks

• is trademarks of Sony
Corporation.

• “Memory Stick”, , “Memory Stick PRO”,

Duo”, , “MagicGate”,
and are trademarks of Sony
Corporation.

• Microsoft, Windows and DirectX are either
registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/
or other countries.

• Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.

• Intel, MMX, and Pentium are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.

• In addition, system and product names used in
this manual are, in general, trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective
developers or manufacturers. However, the ™ or
® marks are not used in all cases in this manual.

, “Memory Stick Duo”,

, “Memory Stick PRO

WARNING

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

For Customers in the U.S.A.

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

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

2

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

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

Use

Power Sources

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

Polarization

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

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

Overloading

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

Object and Liquid Entry

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

Attachments

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

Cleaning

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

Installation

Water and Moisture

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

Power-Cord Protection

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

Accessories

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

Ventilation

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

– Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth

or other materials.

– Never block the slots and openings by placing

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

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

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

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

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

3

Lightning

For added protection for this set during a lightning
storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for
long periods of time, unplug it from the wall
outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system.
This will prevent damage to the set due to
lightning and power-line surges.

Service

Damage Requiring Service

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

– When the power cord or plug is damaged or

frayed.

– If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen

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

being dropped, or the cabinet has been

damaged.
– If the set does not operate normally when

following the operating instructions. Adjust

only those controls that are specified in the

operating instructions. Improper adjustment of

other controls may result in damage and will

often require extensive work by a qualified

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

performance – this indicates a need for service.

Servicing

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

Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Safety Check

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

Replacement parts

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

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

4

Read this first

For Customers in the U.S.A. For Customers in Europe

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) This device must accept any
interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION

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

Note:

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

These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:

– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the

equipment and receiver.

– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a

circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV

technician for help.

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

This product has been tested and found compliant
with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for
using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8
feet).

Attention

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

Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes
data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart
the application or disconnect and connect the
communication cable (USB, etc.) again.

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic
Equipment (Applicable in the
European Union and other European
countries with separate collection
systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging
indicates that this product shall not be treated as
household waste. Instead it shall be handed over
to the applicable collection point for the recycling
of electrical and electronic equipment. By
ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you
will help prevent potential negative consequences
for the environment and human health, which
could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste
handling of this product. The recycling of
materials will help to conserve natural resources.
For more detailed information about recycling of
this product, please contact your local Civic
Office, your household waste disposal service or
the shop where you purchased the product.

5

Notes on using your camera

Types of “Memory Stick” that can be
used (not supplied)

The IC recording medium used by this
camera is a “Memory Stick Duo”. There are
two types of “Memory Stick”.

“Memory Stick Duo”: you can use a
“Memory Stick Duo” with your
camera.

“Memory Stick”: you cannot use a
“Memory Stick” with your camera.

Other memory cards cannot be used.

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

You can use the “Memory Stick Duo” by
inserting it into the Memory Stick Duo
Adaptor (not supplied).

Memory Stick Duo Adaptor

No compensation for contents of the
recording

• The contents of the recording cannot be

compensated for if recording or playback is not
possible due to a malfunction of your camera or
recording media, etc.

Internal memory and “Memory Stick
Duo” back up

• Do not turn off the camera or remove the
batteries or “Memory Stick Duo” while the
access lamp is lighted, as the internal memory
data or “Memory Stick Duo” data may be
destroyed. Always protect your data by making
a back up copy.

Notes on recording/playback

• This camera is neither dust-proof, nor splash­proof, nor water-proof.

• Before you record one-time events, make a trial
recording to make sure that the camera is
working correctly.

• Be careful not to get the camera wet. Water
entering the inside of the camera may cause
malfunctions which in some cases may not be
repairable.

• Do not aim the camera at the sun or other bright
light. Or it may cause the malfunction of your
camera.

• Do not use the camera near a location that
generates strong radio waves or emits radiation.
The camera may not be able to record or play
back properly.

• Using the camera in sandy or dusty locations
may cause malfunctions.

• If moisture condensation occurs, remove it
before using the camera (page 8).

• Do not shake or strike the camera. In addition to
malfunctions and an inability to record images,
this may render the recording medium unusable,
or cause image data breakdown, damage or loss.

• Clean the flash surface before use. The heat of
flash emission may cause dirt on the flash
surface to become discolored or to stick to the
flash surface, resulting in insufficient light
emission.

6

Notes on the LCD screen and lens

• The LCD screen is manufactured using
extremely high-precision technology so over

99.4% of the pixels are operational for effective
use. However, there may be some tiny black
points and/or bright points (white, red, blue or
green in color) that constantly appear on the
LCD screen. These points are normal in the
manufacturing process and do not affect the
recording in any way.

Black, white, red,
blue and green
points

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

• Do not press against the LCD screen. The screen
may be discolored and that may cause a
malfunction.

• Images may trail across on the LCD screen in a
cold location. This is not a malfunction.

• This camera is equipped with a power zoom
lens. Be careful not to bump the lens, and be
careful not to apply force to it.

On image data compatibility

• This camera conforms with DCF (Design rule
for Camera File system) universal standard
established by JEITA (Japan Electronics and
Information Technology Industries
Association).

• Playback of images recorded with your camera
on other equipment and playback of images
recorded or edited with other equipment on your
camera are not guaranteed.

Warning on copyright

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

The pictures used in this manual

The photographs used as examples of pictures in
this manual are reproduced images, and are not
actual images shot using this camera.

Do not use/store the camera in the
following places

• In an extremely hot, dry or humid place
In places such as in a car parked in the sun, the

camera body may become deformed and this
may cause a malfunction.

• Under direct sunlight or near a heater
The camera body may become discolored or

deformed, and this may cause a malfunction.

• In a location subject to rocking vibration

• Near strong magnetic place

• In sandy or dusty places
Be careful not to let sand or dust get into the

camera. This may cause the camera to
malfunction, and in some cases this malfunction
cannot be repaired.

On cleaning

Cleaning the LCD screen

Wipe the screen surface with an LCD cleaning kit
(not supplied) to remove fingerprints, dust, etc.

Cleaning the lens

Wipe the lens with a soft cloth to remove
fingerprints, dust, etc.

Cleaning the camera surface

Clean the camera surface with a soft cloth slightly
moistened with water, then wipe the surface with
a dry cloth. Do not use the following as they may
damage the finish or the casing.

• Chemical products such as thinner, benzine,
alcohol, disposable cloths, insect repellent,
sunscreen or insecticide, etc.

• Do not touch the camera with the above on your
hand.

• Do not leave the camera in contact with rubber
or vinyl for a long time.

7

On operating temperatures

Your camera is designed for use under the
temperatures between 0°C and 40°C (32°F and
104°F). (In case of alkaline batteries/Oxy Nickel
Primary Battery, the temperatures are between
5°C and 40°C (41°F and 104°F).) Shooting in
extremely cold or hot places that exceed this range
is not recommended.

On moisture condensation

If the camera is brought directly from a cold to a
warm location, moisture may condense inside or
outside the camera. This moisture condensation
may cause a malfunction of the camera.

Moisture condensation occurs easily
when:

• The camera is brought from a cold location such
as a ski slope into a warmly heated room.

• The camera is taken from an air-conditioned
room or car interior to the hot outdoors, etc.

How to prevent moisture condensation

When bringing the camera from a cold place to a
warm place, seal the camera in a plastic bag and
allow it to adapt to conditions at the new location
over about an hour.

If moisture condensation occurs

Turn off the camera and wait about an hour for the
moisture to evaporate. Note that if you attempt to
shoot with moisture remaining inside the lens, you
will be unable to record clear images.

Charging method of the internal
rechargeable batter y

Insert batteries with enough capacity in the
camera, and leave the camera for 24 hours or more
with the power off.

On the internal rechargeable battery

This camera has an internal rechargeable battery
for maintaining the date and time and other
settings regardless of whether the power is on or
off.

This rechargeable battery is continually charged
as long as you are using the camera. However, if
you use the camera for only short periods, it
discharges gradually, and if you do not use the
camera at all for about one week it becomes
completely discharged. In this case, be sure to
charge this rechargeable battery before using the
camera.

However, even if this rechargeable battery is not
charged, you can still use the camera as long as
you do not record the date and time.

8

Table of contents

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

Notes on using your camera .....................................................................6

Preparation 10

Check the accessories (supplied) ...........................................................10

Insert the batteries ..................................................................................10

Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” (not supplied).............................................12

Getting started.........................................................................................13

Shoot images easily (Auto adjustment mode) 15

View/delete images 18

Printing images 20

Troubleshooting 22

Others 25

Supported Operating Systems for USB connection and application

software (supplied)..................................................................................25

Viewing “Cyber-shot Handbook” .............................................................25

Specifications ..........................................................................................26

Identifying parts.......................................................................................27

Indicators on the screen............................................................ Back cover

Enjoying additional functions on
recording/playback using the menu

Selecting the desired setting

Making use of a PC and printer

Problems during operation

Refer to “Cyber-shot
Handbook” (PDF).

9