Sony DSR-1P User Manual

PAL

Digital Videocassette Recorder

DSR-1P

DVCAM—Digital Innovation

DVCAM—Digital Innovation

Digitization is opening up new avenues to success in many business areas. Nowhere is this more true
than in professional video production, where evolving digital technology is bringing proven advances
in image quality and equipment versatility as well as reducing operating costs.

DVCAM was born in 1996 as an extension of the consumer DV format, with which it is compatible.
With its superb picture quality, excellent editing capabilities and multigeneration performance, DVCAM
is the perfect choice of format in the highly competitive world of professional video.

The DSR-1P is a dockable recorder for a camcorder, offering outstanding performance in the acquisition

process. When the DSR-1P is combined with a Sony DXC-D30P or DXC-D30WSP Digital

Camera, it becomes the DSR-130P Digital Camcorder, providing a totally digital signal

path and perfect ClipLink™ operation. For complete versatility, the DSR-1P

incorporates both a Pro 50-pin analogue and a Pro 76-pin digital interface,

this dual interface enabling connection to both analogue and digital

cameras. The DSR-1P features a dual-size cassette mechanism that accepts

both mini and standard size cassette tapes without any special adaptor - a

first in the history of dockable recorders. With its superb performance and

operating flexibility, the DSR-1P meets all the requirements of video professionals.

Features

DVCAM Recording Format
For the Next Generation

The DSR-1P provides superb picture quality, multi­generation capability and production flexibility from its use
of the new DVCAM digital recording format - specifically
developed by Sony for professionals in the digital era.

Tape Direction

Sub Code

Head Direction

Playback Compatibility with the

Consumer “D V”Format

The DVCAM format has been developed as an extended
digital recording format for video professionals and is
based on the DV format. However, it maintains playback
compatibility with the consumer DV recording format and
has the unprecedented advantage that both standard and
mini cassettes can be used in the same machine. By using
an increased track pitch, the DVCAM format gives higher
reliability for professional editing.

The DVCAM Component Digital

Recording Format

The DVCAM format uses 8-bit component recording with
a 5:1 compression ratio and sampling at the rate of 4:2:0 to
provide superior picture quality and multi-generation
capability.
The DVCAM employs an intra frame compression scheme
which is ideal for editing applications. Based on DCT
(Discrete Cosine Transform) techniques, each frame
consists of 12 tracks. Each track has ITI (Insert and Track

Video

6.35mm
(1/4 inch)

Audio

ITI

ITI: Insert and Track Information

Information), Audio, Video, and sub code areas. The ITI,
which is a reference signal for a precise tracking, and time
codes on the Sub Code area assure highly accurate
editing performance.
This technique provides much greater operational flexibility,
for example by minimizing dubbing limitations to allow
more efficient and complex multi-layering.

High Quality Digital Audio and
Audio Mode Selection

The DSR-1P provides two selectable audio channel
modes, 48kHz mode and 32kHz mode.
In order to ensure superb audio performance with a wide
dynamic range and an excellent signal-to-noise ratio, PCM
(Pulse Code Modulation) digital stereo recording is used for
both modes; 16-bit quantization and a 48kHz sampling
frequency in the two-channel mode, 12-bit and 32kHz
sampling in the four channel mode (only CH-1/CH-2).

Excellent Performance from Professional

D VCAM Tapes

To gain the maximum performance from high density
digital recording, new Advanced Metal Evaporated
cassette tapes are used for DVCAM. These give superior
quality to DVCAM recording by achieving an RF video
output which is +4.5dB higher compared to that of Hi-8
metal evaporated tape. Higher durability is also ensured
for professional editing applications by enhancing
protection with a DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating.
Each cassette has a built-in 16kbit IC memory which stores
data to enhance editing efficiency. DVCAM cassettes are
available in two sizes; the DVCAM Standard cassette
provides a maximum recording time of 184 minutes and a
DVCAM Mini cassette up to 40 minutes.

<Cassette memory>

User-Convenient Operation

DVCAM or DV
Cassette Tape

DSR-130P

Digital Camcorder

Scene

No.

1
2
3

Time Code

(IN)
00:01:01
00:05:23
00:18:21

Time Code

(OUT)
00:05:22
00:18:20
00:24:13

Index

Picture

as a Dockable Camcorder

The ClipLink System

ClipLink is a comprehensive supervisory system which logs
all the shooting data necessary for the whole of the digital
production process - from acquisition to editing.
When the DSR-1P is combined with the DXC-D30P Digital
Camera to form the DSR-130P DVCAM Digital Camcorder,
two kinds of useful information are automatically generated
during shooting - information which dramatically reduces the
work required for later editing. The first is Index Picture
which is a digitally miniaturized picture of the video image at
each MARK IN point. These Index Pictures are recorded on
the DVCAM tape. Up to 198 Index Pictures can be recorded
onto a cassette tape when using a professional DVCAM tape
or up to 45 Index Pictures can be recorded in the case of a
consumer DV cassette. The second type of information is
ClipLink Log Data, which is a reference data for editing, such
as reel numbers, scene numbers, take numbers, time code
of MARK IN/MARK OUT and Cue points. This ClipLink Log
Data is stored in the cassette by a memory IC incorporated
into all Sony DVCAM and DV cassettes.
Both kinds of information, Index Picture and ClipLink Log
Data, are very effectively utilized in the ClipLink system.
The ClipLink Log Data can be instantly uploaded to the Sony
EditStations from the DVCAM VTRs, so that a selection of
usable video clips can be easily made by just glancing at the
GUI (Graphical User Interface) screen of the EditStation.

The ClipLink system, in combination with Sony’s new digital
products such as the DXC-D30P Digital Camera, DSR-85P
Digital Videocassette Recorder, and the ES-7 EditStation,
provide a remarkable improvement in productivity and
operating efficiency throughout the programme production
process.
The ClipLink system functions even when the DSR-1P is
combined with analogue component cameras, allowing
storage of the Index Pictures at REC IN points onto the tape
and the time codes into the cassette memory. Even when
the cassette tape loaded into another DSR-1P, continuous
recording is still available.

Camera Setup Data File System
(Camera Data Recording)

When a DSR-1P is connected to a DXC-D30P Digital
Camera, the camera setup file data set for a specific
shooting condition can be recorded directly onto the video
auxiliary area of the DVCAM tape via the Pro 76-pin Digital
connector. The stored set-up data can then be copied
onto other DVCAM tapes so that a specific camera set-up
can be copied to many other cameras.
This system makes it easy to set up several cameras to a
uniform condition simply by using duplicated tapes.

Dual Interface Mechanism Gives

Choice of Dockable Cameras

The DSR-1P has both Pro 76-pin Digital and Pro 50-pin
connectors which allow direct connection with several
alternative Sony digital and analogue cameras: DXC-D30P,
DXC-637P, DXC-537AP, DXC-327AP and DXC-327BP.
This excellent flexibility, which allows a camcorder to be
configured for a variety of different applications, is
achieved by a newly developed dual interface mechanism,
which incorporates both analogue Pro 50-pin and Pro 76­pin Digital interfaces with a unique seesaw construction.
The Pro 76-pin Digital interface gives closer communication
between a digital camera and the VTR in operations such

as the ClipLink system,
Camera setup data
recording on tapes and
time code display on
the viewfinder in
playback mode. In
addition, the new
design of the
connectors offers
enhanced interface

<Pro 76-pin Digital> <Pro 50-pin>

reliability.

Perfect Camcorder Operation with

the DSR-130P

When connected to a DXC-D30P Digital Camera to form
a DSR-130P DVCAM camcorder, the DSR-1P operates at
its optimum performance. Since both video and audio
signals are printed in the digital domain, working with the
DSR-130P Digital Camcorder has the great advantage that
the video and audio quality of the programme material can
be maintained right through the production process - from
acquisition to programme distribution.

Unique Design

Compact and Lightweight Construction

Sony innovation in mechanical and electronic design,
such as the use of a magnesium diecast body and the
development of a very compact drum mechanism, makes
the DSR-1P remarkably small and lightweight yet durable in
use; Weighing in at just 2.85kg (6 lb 4 oz) complete with
NP-1B Battery, it means that when the DSR-1P is
configured with a DXC-D30P camera, it forms a camcorder
of remarkable ergonomic design that has an operating
weight of only around 7.3kg (16 lb 1 oz).

Versatile Comprehensive
Built-in Features

Record Review Function

By simply pressing the Rec Review button while in the Rec
pause mode or in the Stop mode, the DSR-1P plays back two
seconds of the last scene and stops at the end of the previous
recording. The Rec Review time can also be extended up to a
maximum of approximately 10 seconds, if the Rec Review
button is pressed for longer than two seconds.

Frame Accurate Back Space Editing

Automatic back space editing with instant start provides
sequential recording, without picture breakup at the
transition points. The time code regeneration function, when
used with the Rec Review function, enables the DSR-1P to
record continuous time code at any editing point.

Viewfinder Playback Capability

The DSR-1P provides the viewfinder playback function for
field verification. In playback or Rec Review mode, the
recorded luminance signal can be monitored on the
viewfinder, while audio playback is available via an
earphone or the built-in loudspeaker.

Low Power Consumption

With a low power consumption totaling only 24.8W, one
fully charged Sony NP-1B battery gives continuous
operation for approximately 60 minutes when operating in
the DSR-130P configuration.

Dual Cassette Mechanism

The DSR-1P accepts both DVCAM Mini cassette tapes
and DVCAM Standard cassette tapes without any adaptor.
This is a Sony first in the history of the dockable recorder or
camcorder, and it enables the DSR-1P to have a maximum
recording time of 184 minutes. It also means that the
DSR-1P can accommodate a wide selection of cassette
tapes, either the DVCAM Mini cassettes or the DVCAM
Standard.

Built-in EBU Time Code Generator and
Reader

The DSR-1P includes a built-in time code generator and
reader which conforms to the EBU standard. Users bits
are also available. Both the time code and the users bits
are recorded in the sub code area which can be read at
any playback speed. Time code lock to either external
time code or another DSR-1P is available for multi-camera
operation. Furthermore, the DSR-1P has both time code
preset and regeneration capabilities.

Time Base Stabilizer

The DSR-1P is equipped with a built-in time base
stabilizer which provides stable pictures without any
additional equipment.

Easy, Full Colour Picture Playback in the

Field

The DSR-1P provides a full colour picture playback
capability without any playback adaptor, which is a great
advantage for field verification of the recording and permits
direct microwave transmission.

Interchangeable Battery Cases

In addition to the supplied battery case for one NP-1B,

DSR-1P can accept various batteries to extend its

the
operating time. The DC-520, when attached to the supplied
battery case, allows the DSR-1P to house two NP-1B
batteries. BP-L60A Lithium Battery can be also attached to
the back of the DSR-1P.

Others

• Easy Integration with Anton/Bauer®Equipment

• Versatile Signal Interfaces

The DSR-1P is equipped with versatile signal interfaces
such as S-video and composite outputs. For audio
interfaces, an earphone output, unbalanced phono output
and balanced XLR-type audio inputs are provided.

Comprehensive LCD Display

An 8-digit LCD display provides an extensive range of
critical information about the VTR operation. In addition to
time data (including Time Code, counter and User Bit data),
remaining tape quantity and battery capacity, the ClipLink
operation status is also displayed. A digital audio meter
allows precise adjustment of the audio recording level.

• DC Out Connector for Wireless Microphone

Powering

• +48V Powering for External Microphone

• Built-in Loudspeaker

User Friendly Operation

VTR Full Function Control

Eject, Rewind, Play, Fast Forward, and Stop function
buttons are located on the top of the unit and are covered
with a lid to prevent accidental access. During Rec mode,
all function buttons are automatically inhibited. The Rec
mode can also be activated with the trigger buttons on the
front of the camera or on the zoom lens grip.

Menu Selection

Various VTR menus such as cumulative hours (head drum
operating hours, tape transport operation hours, total
operation hours), ClipLink On/Off mode, selection of audio
mode, Anton/Bauer Logic Series
indication settings and stand-by period setting can be
shown on the LCD display for easy access to the various
menus.

®

Digital battery capacity

Reliable and Serviceable

Built-In Self-Diagnostics and

Hours Meter

Should an error be detected, an error message will be
displayed which will identify the problem area. In this way,
down-time can be minimized.
Furthermore, an hours meter is provided to indicate the
elapsed time of time-critical operations such as
accumulated drum rotation time. It can easily be displayed
on the LCD display via menu selection.

Peripheral
Equipment

BKW-L601

Battery Adaptor for
BP-L60A/L90A

*Camera adaptor is optional.

DSR-1P is directly connected to the cameras.

DXC-D30WSP

Digital Video Camera

DC-520

Battery Case for NP-1B

**

DXC-637P

Colour Video Camera

BC-1WDCE

Battery Charger for four
NP-1B batteries

NP-1B

Rechargeable NiCd Battery

BC-410CE

Battery Charger for four
BP-L90A and four NP-1B
batteries

<BP-L60A> <BP-L90A>

BP-L60A/BP-L90A

Rechargeable Lithium-ion
Battery

<WRR-855A>

*A BTA-801 is required

when the WRR-855A is
attached to the DSR-1P

WRR-855A/810A

Wireless Microphone
Receiver

* WRR-855A/810A can not be used in

some areas.

DSR-130P
DVCAM Digital
Camcorder

Main Features

Excellent Design

• Directly connected via the Pro 76-pin Digital connector

• Compact and lightweight

• Low power consumption

Innovative Digital Signal Processing

• TruEye™ processing for faithful colour reproduction with a
wide dynamic range

• Superb picture quality (850TV line horizontal resolution)

• Skin Detail with auto skin tone detection

• ‘Black Halo’ free Clean Detail

• Real Time Self Diagnostics

• High stability and uniformity

Power HAD™ CCD

• Low smear level of -125dB, equivalent to FIT CCDs

• High sensitivity of F11.0 (at 2000 lx, 3200K)

• High signal-to-noise ratio of 61dB

ClipLink System for Efficient Video Production

Sophisticated Camera Setup Management

• Convenient Viewfinder menu

• Camera Setup File System to manage setup files

• SetupNavi™ to store and transplant a camera setup file
using a DVCAM cassette tape.

• SetupLog™ system to store operational condition of
camera onto a DVCAM tape.

Operational Convenience

• Time code superimposed in playback

• Freeze Mix Function to frame the subject in the same
position as in the previous shot, which is superimposed
on the viewfinder screen as a still image.

• Edit Search button and Audio CH-1 Level Control are
located on the DXC-D30 for easy access by the operator.

• Total Level Control System (TLCS) for automatic light
control

• Intelligent Auto Iris which detects the lighting condition to
adjust the lens iris for optimum exposure

• EZ Focus and EZ mode allow quick camera setup for
instant shooting

• Auto Tracing White Balance (ATW) function

• MONITOR OUT (BNC) function

• Three position auto iris mode - STD (Standard), BACK L
(Back Light), SPOT L (Spot Light)

Other Features

• REMOTE 10-pin (RS-232C) to allow control from external
personal computers

• Black stretch and compress function to adjust the
contrast in the black area

• Dual Zebra function

• Programmable Gain from a wide selection; Master Gain,
DPR (Dual Pixel Readout) and Hyper Gain

• Date and time superimposition

• Built-in 1kHz audio reference oscillator

• Adjustable shoulder pad

• Quick start, refined 600 TV line 1.5-inch CRT viewfinder

• Enriched Selectable colour bars – EBU100%, EBU75%,
SPLIT, SNG

CMA-8ACE

AC Adaptor (used with the
optional CCQX-3 cable)

LC-421

Carrying Case for DSR-130P

CCQX-3

Power Supply Cable for
CMA-8ACE

LCR-1

Rain Cover

AC-550CE

AC Adaptor

CA-514

Camera Adaptor for BVP
Series Broadcast Cameras

DXF-701CE

1.5-inch Monochrome
Electric Viewfinder

PDVM-12ME/22ME/
32ME/40ME

Digital Video Cassette Tape
(Mini size)

VCT-U14

Tripod Adaptor

PDV-34ME/64ME/94ME/
124ME/184ME

Digital Video Cassette Tape
(Standard size)

<WRR-810A>

WRT-810A/830A
UHF Wireless Microphone

PDVM-32N/40N (Mini size)
PDV-64N/124N/184N

(Standard size)
Digital Video Cassette Tape
(Non IC tape)

Specifications

GENERAL

Power requirements DC 12V +5/-1V
Power consumption 12W
Operating temperature 0 ~ +40 ˚C (32 to 104 ˚F)
Storage temperature -20 ~ +60 ˚C (-4 to +140 ˚F)
Operating humidity Less than 85%
Storage humidity Less than 90%
Mass 2.85Kg (6 lb 4 oz)

(including Battery NP-1B)

Dimensions 118(W ) x 185(H) x 210(D) mm

(4 3/4 x 7 3/8 x 8 3/8 inches)
Tape speed 28.221mm/s
Recording/Playback time Standard size : 184min. w/PDV-184ME

Mini size : 40min. w/PDVM-40ME
Fast forward/Rewind time Standard size : Approx. 12min. w/PDV-184ME

Mini size : Approx. 3min. w/PDVM-40ME
Continuous recording time Approx. 60min. w/NP-1B

(DSR-1P + DXC-D30P)

VIDEO PERFORMANCE**

Band width

Luminance 25Hz~5.5MHz + 1.0/-2.0dB

5.75MHz + 0/-3.0dB (Typical measurement)

Chrominance 25Hz~2.0MHz + 1.0/-2.0dB
S/N ratio More than 55dB
K-factor (K2T, KPB) Less than 2.0%
Y/C delay 0 ± 30nsec.

AUDIO PERFORMANCE**

Frequency response

2CH mode (48kHz/16bit) 20Hz ~ 20kHz +0.5/-1.0 dB

4CH mode (32kHz/12bit) 20Hz ~14.5kHz +0.5/-1.0 dB
Dynamic range More than 80dB
Distortion (THD + N) Less than 0.08%

SIGNAL INPUTS

GEN LOCK VIDEO IN (BNC) 1.0Vp-p, 75Ω
EXT AUDIO IN CH-1/2

(XLR 3-pin female) -60dBu, 3kΩ/+4dBu, 10kΩ
TIME CODE IN (BNC) 0.5Vp-p ~ 18Vp-p, 10kΩ

SIGNAL OUTPUTS

VIDEO OUT (BNC) 1.0Vp-p, 75Ω
S-VIDEO (4-pin)

Y 1.0Vp-p, 75Ω, sync negative

C 0.3Vp-p, 75Ω
AUDIO OUT CH-1/2 (RCA PIN) -10dBu , 47KΩ
TIME CODE OUT (BNC) 1.0Vp-p, 75Ω

OTHERS

ANALOGUE I/F Pro 50P
DIGITAL I/F Pro 76P Digital
DC 12V (rear) XLR 4-pin male
DC OUT 4-pin
EARPHONE OUT Stereo Mini Jack

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

Shoulder strap (x1)
Connector cap (x1)
Lithium battery (type CR2032) (x1)
M4 x 6 screws (x2)
M4 x 12 screws (x2)
Operating instructions (x1)
ClipLink guide (x1)

* 0dBu = 0.775Vrms
* Design and specifications subject to change without notice.
* “Sony” and “Hyper HAD” are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.
* “DVCAM”, “EditStation”, “TruEye”, “SetupNavi”, “SetupLog” and “ClipLink” are trademarks of

Sony Corporation.
* “Anton/Bauer” and “Logic Series” are registered trademarks of the Anton/Bauer Corporation.
** The specifications of “Video/Audio performance” were measured by playing back material

on a DSR-85P (via analogue component out) that had been recorded on the DSR-1P.

Distributed by

MK4202/4KYP-9804

Printed in Japan

©1998 Sony Corporation