Sony DSR250P User Manual

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Page 1

DSR-250P

3-064-678-34 (1)

Digital Camcorder

Operating Instructions

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

DSR-250P

Page 2

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Digital camcorder.

Welcome!

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

WARNING

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

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

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 these directives 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)

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

Voor de klanten in Nederland

Bij dit product zijn batterijen gelevered. Wanneer deze leeg zijn, moet u ze niet weggooien maar inleveren als KCA.

“Memory Stick”

Page 3

Table of contents

Getting started

Using this manual............................................... 4

Checking supplied accessories ......................... 6

Step 1 Installing the microphone ..................... 7

Step 2 Preparing the power supply ................ 8

Step 3 Inserting a cassette ............................... 13

Recording – Basics

Recording a picture .......................................... 15

Shooting backlit subjects (BACK

LIGHT) .......................................... 27

Spot light .............................................. 28

Checking the recording – END SEARCH /

EDITSEARCH / Rec Review ....................... 29

Playback – Basics

Playing back a tape ...........................................30

Viewing the recording on a monitor ............. 35

Advanced Recording Operations

Shooting with manual adjustment ................. 36

Focusing manually ........................................... 45

Adjusting the white balance ........................... 47

Presetting the adjustment for picture quality

– Custom preset ............................................. 50

Using the guide frame ..................................... 52

Marking an Index ............................................. 53

Adjusting the recording level manually

– Sound recording level ................................ 54

Connecting an optional external

microphone ..................................................... 56

Using an external audio system or

microphone ..................................................... 58

Backing up recordings to another tape ......... 59

Using a video light ........................................... 60

Superimposing the date and time on a

picture .............................................................. 61

Recording a still image on a tape

– Tape Photo recording ................................. 62

Shooting with all the pixels

– PROG. SCAN............................................... 64

Using the wide mode ....................................... 66

Using the fader function .................................. 67

Using special effects – Digital effect .............. 69

Superimposing a still image in a “Memory

Stick” on a moving picture

– MEMORY MIX ............................................ 71

Interval recording ............................................. 74

Frame by frame recording – Cut recording ...

Advanced Playback Operations

Searching for a recording by index

– Index search ................................................. 77

Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by

title – Title search ........................................... 79

Searching a recording by date – Date search...

Searching for a photo – Photo search/Photo

scan .................................................................. 82

Playing back a tape with digital effects ......... 84

Editing

Dubbing a tape .................................................. 85

Dubbing only desired scenes

– Digital program editing ............................. 88

Using with an analog video unit and a PC

– Signal convert function .............................. 94

Recording video or TV programs .................. 96

Audio dubbing ................................................ 100

Setting time values ......................................... 105

Superimposing a title ..................................... 110

Making your own titles.................................. 114

Labelling a cassette ......................................... 116

Erasing the cassette memory data ................118

Customizing Your Camcorder

Changing the menu settings ......................... 120

Resetting the date and time ........................... 128

“Memory Stick” Operations

Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction...... 129

Recording still images on a “Memory Stick”

– Memory Photo recording ........................ 134

Recording an image from a tape as a still

image ............................................................. 137

Copying still images from a tape

– Photo save .................................................. 140

Viewing a still picture – Memory Photo

playback ........................................................ 142

Copying an image recorded on a “Memory

Stick” to tapes ............................................... 146

Playing back images continuously

– SLIDE SHOW ............................................ 148

Preventing accidental erasure

– Image protection ....................................... 149

Deleting images .............................................. 151

Writing a print mark – Print mark ............... 154

Additional Information

Compatibility of DVCAM and DV

formats........................................................... 156

Usable cassettes ............................................... 158

About i.LINK ................................................... 161

Troubleshooting .............................................. 162

Self-diagnosis display .................................... 168

Warning indicators and messages ............... 169

Using your camcorder abroad ...................... 171

Maintenance information and precautions ...

Specifications ................................................... 176

Quick Reference

Identifying the parts and controls ................ 177

Quick Function Guide.................................... 191

Index .................................................... Back cover

172

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— Getting started —

Using this manual

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

e.g. Set the POWER switch to ON.

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

Note on cassette memory

Your camcorder is based on the DVCAM/DV format. We recommend that you use a tape with cassette memory .

The functions which require different operations depending on whether or not the tape has cassette memory are:

•Searching the end point of the recording – end search (p. 29, 33)

•Searching a recording by index – index search (p. 77)

•Searching a recording by date – date search (p. 80)

•Searching for a photo – photo search (p. 82).

The functions you can operate only with cassette memory are:

•Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title – title search (p. 79)

•Superimposing a title (p. 110)

•Making your own titles (p. 114)

•Labelling a cassette (p. 116).

For details, see page 158.

You see this mark in the introduction of the features that are operated only with cassette memory.

Tapes with cassette memory are marked with (Cassette Memory).

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Using this manual

Note on TV colour systems

TV colour systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need a PAL system-based TV.

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

Precautions on camcorder care

•The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using high-precision technology. Effective ratio of pixels is 99.99% or more. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (red, blue, green or white) that constantly appear on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder. These phenomena are not malfunctions. These points do not affect the recorded picture in any way.

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

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

•Do not place your camcorder so as to point the viewfinder or the LCD screen or lens toward the sun. The inside of the viewfinder, LCD screen, or lens may be damaged [c].

•The use of the radio communication equipment such as cellular phones or transceivers near the unit may cause a malfunction and can affect the audio/video signals. The cellular phones or transceivers near the unit should be switched off.

Getting started

[a][b][c]

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

Page 6

Checking supplied accessories

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

12 3

1 Wireless Remote Commander (1)

(p. 188)

2 R6 (Size AA) battery for Remote

Commander (2) (p. 189)

3 Memory Stick Reader/Writer (1),

Stand (1), Specified extension cable

(1), Driver software (CD ROM) (1)

You cannot use the “PIXELA ImageMixer” software to copy images from your camcorder to your computer.

4 “Memory Stick” (1) (p. 129) 5 Hood cap (1) (p. 15) 6 Application software: PictureGear

4.1Lite (CD ROM) (1) (p. 145)

7 Microphone (1) (p. 7), Wind screen (1)

(p. 7)

8 Operating instructions (2)

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Step 1 Installing the microphone

AUDIO

INPUT

AUDIO

SELECT

CH-1

CH-2

FRONT REAR

AUTO

MANUAL

FRONT REAR

AUTO

MANUAL

Install the supplied microphone. Be sure to connect the microphone plug to the MIC IN +48V connector.

(1) Attach the wind screen to the microphone. (2) Loosen the microphone holder screw and open the cover. (3) Place the microphone into the holder with the model name (ECM-NV1) facing

upward, close the cover, and tighten the screw.

(4) Connect the plug of the microphone to the MIC IN +48V connector. (5) Set the AUDIO INPUT switches to FRONT, and the AUDIO SELECT switches

to AUTO, for both channels 1 and 2. When you manually adjust the audio level, see “Adjusting the recording level manually – Sound recording level” on page 54.

Getting started

When the wind is blowing hard

When inputting the sound via the MIC IN +48V connector, you can reduce the wind noise. Set the MIC LOW CUT switch to ON. This is only activated for the front microphone.

When you unplug the microphone plug

Unplug it while pressing the PUSH button.

MIC LOW CUT switch

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Step 2 Preparing the power supply

The following power supplies can be used with the camcorder.

•BP-L40 (A)/L60A/L90A lithium-ion battery pack

•NP-1B Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L1Battery Adaptor is required.)

•BP-90A Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L90 Battery Adaptor is required.)

•AC power (The AC-550CE, AC-DN1/DN2A, or CMA-8ACE AC Adaptor is required.) Alternatively, you can make combined use of internal and external batteries, by mounting one of the above batteries as an internal battery and connecting, such as a BP90A contained in a DC-210 Battery Adaptor to the DC IN 12V connector of the camcorder as an external source.

Using a BP-L40 (A)/L60A/L90A battery pack

With a battery pack, the camcorder will operate continuously for the time shown below.

BP-L40 (A): Approx. 190 minutes BP-L60A: Approx. 420 minutes BP-L90A: Approx. 700 minutes

The numbers above indicate the time using only the viewfinder.

Before use, charge the battery pack with the BC-L50/L100CE Battery Charger.

The BP-L40 (A)/L60A/L90A is free from memory effect. There is no need to discharge it fully before recharging.

Notes on using the battery pack

•A warm battery pack may not be fully recharged.

•Even when fully charged, battery packs gradually lose their charge naturally. Use the battery packs as soon as possible after recharging.

•To prolong the life of battery packs, store them in a cool place (about 20 °C (68 °F)), and charge in a place with an ambient temperature between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F).

•Before long-term storage, discharge the battery fully. This extends the battery life.

•It is recommended that the BP-L40 (A) be used at 30 W or less.

•When using the BP-L40 (A), the specified capacity may not be obtained if it is connected to the camcorder with accessories which is operated at 30 W or higher, especially when the ambient temperature is low.

•At low temperatures, the usable time of battery packs decreases. When the ambient temperature is 0 °C (32 °F), usable time decreases by about 10%. (However, the usable time is affected by the power consumption of the camcorder in addition to the usage status of the battery packs.) The usable time of battery packs increases if they are warmed to the room temperature (about 20 °C (68 °F)) before use at low temperatures.

•If you use the BP-L40 (A) at temperatures of 0 °C (32 °F) or below, when power consumption of the camcorder and accessories is 40 W or higher (due to using a video light, for example), power may break after a short time (a few minutes). To increase the usable time, store the BP-L40 (A) in a warm place, and power on the camcorder before the BP-L40 (A) cools down.

•Compared to the BP-L40 (A), the BP-L60A/L90A offer better performance at low temperatures. The BP-L60A/L90A are recommended for use at low temperatures.

•Carrying a spare battery pack is recommended.

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Step 2 Preparing the power supply

Installing the battery pack

(1) Attach the battery pack against the rear of the camcorder, aligning the side line

of the battery pack with the line on the camcorder.

(2) Slide the battery pack down until its “bLOCK” arrow points at the matching

line on the camcorder.

Getting started

Battery pack

Align these lines.

To remove the battery pack

Holding the battery release button in, pull the battery pack up.

Matching line on the camcorder

“LOCK” arrow

Battery release button

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Step 2 Preparing the power supply

Setting up the type of the battery pack

Set up the type of the battery pack installed to the camcorder, using the menu. If you do not set the type, the battery remaining indicator will not indicate the correct capacity.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select uREMAIN, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the type of the battery pack, then

press the dial.

Setting Meaning

LI-ION When using a lithium-ion battery pack (BP-L40 (A)/L60A/L90A) NI-CD When using a nicad battery pack (NP-1B/BP-90A)

(5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to make the menu disappear.

TC/UB SET

TC PRESET UB PRESET TC RUN TC MAKE UB T

[MENU] : END

PRESET

CUSTOM

PRESET

CUSTOM

, then press the dial.

2,3

SETUP MENU

CLOCK SET LTR SI ZE REMAI N

SETUP MENU

CLOCK SET LTR SI ZE

[MENU] : END

REMAI N RETURN

LI-ION NI-CD

[MENU] : END

When the battery capacity is low

The BATT and REC lamps (red) in the viewfinder and the TALLY lamps on the camcorder will flash.

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Step 2 Preparing the power supply

Using an AC adaptor

When using an AC-550CE AC Adaptor

Connect the camcorder to the AC power supply as shown in the following figure, and turn the POWER switch of the AC-550CE ON.

AC-550CE AC Adaptor

POWER switch: ON

DC connecting cable

DC IN 12V

When using an AC-DN1 AC Adaptor

Mount the AC-DN1 on the camcorder in the same way as a battery pack, then connect to the AC power source.

Getting started

To AC power source

CAMERA/ CCU

To AC power source

Note

When total power consumption of the camcorder and accessories is 38 W or higher, or when using a video light, use the AC-DN2A AC adaptor (lower than 150 W).

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Step 2 Preparing the power supply

Avoiding breaks in operation due to dead batteries

If you use both an internal battery pack and an external battery connected to the DC IN 12V connector at the same time, you can avoid breaks in operation due to the dead batteries.

When the external battery begins to fail and an internal battery pack is installed

Remove the DC output cable of the external battery from the DC IN 12V connector. The power source will switch to the internal battery pack.

When the external battery begins to fail and an internal battery pack is not installed

First install a fully charged internal battery pack to the camcorder, then remove the DC output cable of the external battery from the DC IN 12V connector. The power source will switch to the internal battery pack. To use an external battery again, connect a fully charged external battery to the DC IN 12V connector before removing the internal battery pack. The power source will switch to the external battery.

Continuous operation when operating with only an internal battery pack

First, connect a fully charged external battery to the DC IN 12V connector, then change the internal battery.

Notes

•Whenever an internal battery pack is installed and an external battery is connected to the DC IN 12V connector, the external battery is always used as the power source.

•There may be some noise on the video or audio signal at the instant the power sources are switched.

•When changing the battery pack, make sure that the POWER switch is set to OFF.

•When using the two NP-1B battery packs, be sure to change both of them at the same

time.

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Step 3 Inserting a cassette

The camcorder can use standard-size and mini-size DVCAM/DV cassettes. Before inserting a cassette, make sure that no cassette is in the cassette compartment. Inserting a cassette forcibly may damage internal parts of the camcorder.

(1) Install the power source (p. 8). (2) While sliding OPEN in the direction of the arrow, open the cassette lid. (3) Insert the cassette with the window facing out and the REC/SAVE switch

facing upward. Check for tape slack before inserting the cassette.

[a] Inserting a standard-size cassette

Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front) facing outward.

[b] Inserting a mini-size cassette

Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front) facing outward. Push the cassette between the both guides.

(4) Close the cassette lid until it clicks.

OPEN

3-[b]

3-[a]

Getting started

Mini-size cassette match marks

Guides

To eject a cassette

Follow the procedure above, and take out the cassette by pressing the EJECT button in step 3.

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Step 3 Inserting a cassette

Note

Internal parts of the camcorder may become bent or otherwise damaged if you attempt to insert a mini-size cassette in the wrong direction (such as with the cassette turned backside front so the reel holes face the cassette holder window or with the cassette turned sideways so that a short side enters first).

When you use cassettes with cassette memory

Read the instruction about cassette memory to use this function properly (p. 158).

To prevent accidental erasure

Slide the REC/SAVE switch on the cassette to the SAVE position.

If Q flashes even if the cassette has been inserted

Insert the cassette again.

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— Recording – Basics —

Recording a picture

Your camcorder automatically focuses for you.

(1) Remove the hood cap and pull the hood cap string to fix it. (2) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Step 2” and “Step 3” for

more information (p. 8 to 14).

(3) Set the POWER switch to ON. (4) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to CAMERA. Your camcorder is

set to the standby mode. The picture now being shot is displayed in the viewfinder.

(5) Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. “STBY” in the

viewfinder changes to “REC” and the REC lamp in the viewfinder lights up. Also, the TALLY lamps located on the front and rear of your camcorder light up. To stop recording, press START/STOP again. This camcorder is equipped with two START/STOP buttons, and you can use either of them for recording start/stop.

TALLY lamps Microphone

Recording

– Basics

TALLY

TAKE BATTREC

REC 00:00:00:01

SHUTTER GAIN UP

DVCAM

32K

POWER

OFF

MEMORY

CAMERA

VTR

Page 16

Recording a picture

To turn off the TALLY lamps

When you turn off the TALLY lamp located on the viewfinder, set the TALLY switch located on the front of the viewfinder to OFF, and when you turn off the TALLY lamp located on the rear, set the TALLY switch located below the TALLY lamp to OFF. The intensity of the front TALLY lamp can be chosen from high (HIGH) or low (LOW).

Note

Fasten the grip strap firmly.

Note on the progressive mode

If you intend to use the images on your PC or play the images back as still images, we recommend that you set PROG. SCAN to ON in the menu settings before shooting (p.

120). The picture quality improves in this mode, but if you shoot a moving subject, the

image shakes when it is played back.

To enable smooth transition

Transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene is smooth as long as you do not eject the cassette even if you turn off your camcorder. When you use a tape with cassette memory, however, you can make the transition smooth even after ejecting the cassette if you use the end search function (p. 29). However, check the following:

•When you change the battery pack, set the POWER switch to OFF.

•Do not mix recordings in the DVCAM format and the DV format on one tape.

•If you record a tape in DV format, the transition of a tape may not be smooth. We

recommend that you use DVCAM cassettes and set REC MODE to DVCAM in the menu settings to obtain reliable clear pictures.

Note on transition

The playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly between scenes when you change the recording format on one tape.

If you leave your camcorder in standby mode for five minutes

The head drum of the camcorder automatically stops rotating. This is to prevent the tape wear and save the battery power. To re-start recording, press the START/STOP button. It may take more time to start recording. However, this is not a malfunction.

Page 17

Recording a picture

Using the ND filter

Using the ND filter (the ND filter 1 setting corresponds to 1/4 of the quantity of light and the ND filter 2 setting corresponds to 1/32 of the quantity of light), you can record a picture clearly by adjusting light amounts, even if you shoot under too bright conditions.

When the ND1 or ND2 indicator flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder

The ND filter is necessary. When ND 1 flashes, set the ND FILTER selector to 1 so that the ND 1 indicator on the LCD or viewfinder screen stops flashing and remains on. When ND 2 flashes, set the ND FILTER selector to 2 so that the ND 2 indicator on the LCD or viewfinder screen stops flashing and remains on.

When ND OFF flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder

The ND filter is not necessary. Set the ND FILTER selector to OFF so that the indicator disappears from the LCD or viewfinder screen. The ND filter is now deactivated.

ND FILTER

OFF

Recording

– Basics

Notes

•If you set the ND FILTER selector to another positions during recording, the picture may be blurred or audio noise may occur. We recommend that you check the position of the ND FILTER selector before shooting.

•When shooting a too bright object, diffraction off the small aperture may cause slight off set in focusing. This phenomenon is quite common with a use of a video camera recorder. Using the ND filter will reduce influence of such phenomenon, and you can attain a better shooting condition.

When the DISPLAY switch located on the front of the viewfinder is set to OFF or turning off the indicators using the DISPLAY button

The ND filter indicator will disappear after you set the ND FILTER selector to the appropriate position according to the ND filter indication.

When you adjust the iris manually

The selected position is displayed, however, the recommended position of the ND FILTER selector is not indicated.

Page 18

Recording a picture

Usable cassettes

The camcorder can use standard-size and mini-size DVCAM/DV cassettes. (To ensure high-quality playback, editing, and storage of recorded contents, we recommend using highly reliable DVCAM cassettes). The following table lists the cassettes that can be used in the camcorder.

Model name Cassette size

PDV-64ME/64MEM/64N/94ME/124ME/124MEM Standard size /124N/184ME/184MEM/184N

PDVM-12ME/22ME/32ME/32MEM/32N/40ME/40MEM/40N Mini size

The numbers in the model names show maximum recording/playback time (minutes) for each model. For example, the maximum recording/playback time of the PDV184ME is 184 minutes.

When you use a DV cassette, set REC MODE to DV SP in the menu settings. You can record on a tape 1.5 times longer than the DVCAM format.

To set the audio reference level

When using the camcorder in a editing system containing both consumer DV and professional equipment, setting the audio reference level to –12 dB is recommended. Set up the A REF LVL item in the menu settings (p. 120). –12 dB : Audio reference level commonly used for DV products (The maximum level is 0 dB.)

–18 dB (the default setting) : Audio reference level for professional use

Notes

•You cannot record on a tape in LP mode in the DV format.

•If you insert an incorrect type of cassette, it will be automatically ejected.

•Changing the audio reference level setting from –18 dB to –12 dB increases the audio recording level by 6 dB whether the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches are set to AUTO or MANUAL.

If you use a DV cassette without setting REC MODE to DV SP

The recordable time is 2/3 time that indicated on the cassette.

Cassettes that can be played back with your camcorder

You can play back both cassettes recorded in the DVCAM format or in the DV format, however, you cannot play back cassettes that were recorded in LP mode in the DV format.

Page 19

Recording a picture

Adjusting the viewfinder position

To adjust the viewfinder left-to-right position, loosen the left-to-right positioning ring, and to adjust the front-to-back position, loosen the front-to-back position locking knob.

Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob

Left eye adaptor

By fitting a left eye adaptor, you can use the camcorder with your left eye to the viewfinder. For details, contact your Sony dealer.

Adjusting the viewfinder screen

The following adjustments are provided to improve the visibility of the viewfinder screen. Although these adjustments may make the viewfinder image clearer, they have no effect on the output video signal from the camcorder.

Viewfinder left-to-right positioning ring

Recording

– Basics

CONTRAST control PEAKING control

BRIGHT control

Page 20

Recording a picture

Eyepiece focus adjustment

Depending on the eyesight of the operator — whether longsighted or shortsighted — the optimal position of the viewfinder image varies. Adjust the eyepiece focus to get the clearest viewfinder image for your eyesight. First focus the image with the lens, then adjust the eyepiece focusing knob. The adjustment range is from –3 to 0 diopters1).

1) Diopter: A unit to indicate the degree of convergence or divergence of a bundle of

rays.

Eyepiece focusing knob

To modify the adjustment range

Using an optional part allows you to modify the adjustment range to –2 to +1 diopters or –0.5 to +3 diopters. For details, consult your Sony dealer.

Page 21

Recording a picture

Contrast and brightness adjustment

Carry out these adjustments with the color bars displayed.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby or recording mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select COLOUR BAR, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

(6) Watching the color bars, turn the CONTRAST and BRIGHT controls to adjust

the contrast and brightness.

, then press the dial.

Recording

– Basics

1,5

PRESET

CUSTOM

PEAKING control

CONTRAST control

BRIGHT control

Outline emphasis adjustment

Turning the PEAKING control changes the degree of outline emphasis in the viewfinder image, to make focusing easier.

2-4

OTHERS

WORLD TI ME BEEP COMMANDER DI SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER

OTHERS

WORLD TI ME BEEP

[

MENU] : END

COMMANDER DI SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER RETURN

[

MENU] : END

OTHERS

WORLD TI ME BEEP COMMANDER DI SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER RETURN

[

MENU] : END

OFF ON

Page 22

Recording a picture

Using the LCD screen

While sliding OPEN in the direction of the battery pack, then open the LCD panel. The picture being shot is displayed on the LCD screen. To turn off the LCD screen, set the LCD switch to OFF or close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing toward the camcorder body. The LCD panel is opened up to 90 degrees and it rotates about 90 degrees to the battery side and about 180 degrees to the lens side. To close the LCD panel, set it vertically and swing it into the camcorder body until it clicks.

90°

180°180°

OPEN

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

mode).

When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight

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

When you adjust the angle of the LCD panel

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

When using both the LCD screen and the viewfinder during shooting

The usable time of the battery pack when using both the LCD screen and the viewfinder will be shorter than when using the viewfinder only.

Pictures in the mirror mode

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

Indicators in the mirror mode

The STBY indicator appears as Xz and REC as z. Some of the other indicators appear mirror-reversed and others are not displayed. However, if you close the LCD panel with the LCD screen turned over, indicators appear normally.

LCD switch

Page 23

Recording a picture

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD screen

To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen, press LCD BRIGHT + or –.

Recording

–

LCD BRIGHT

To darken

Even if you do the LCD screen adjustment using the LCD BRIGHT +/– buttons

The recorded picture will not be affected.

To brighten

Recording in a low position

You can record in a low position to get an interesting recording angle. Lift up the viewfinder or rotate the LCD panel with the screen facing up to record from a low position.

– Basics

Page 24

Recording a picture

After recording

(1) Close the LCD panel. (2) Eject the cassette. (3) Set the POWER switch to OFF. (4) Remove the battery pack.

Using the zoom feature

To zoom with the zoom lever

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

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

When you shoot close to a subject

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

Page 25

Recording a picture

To zoom with the zoom ring

Using the zoom ring, you can control the zoom by your desired speed and you can make fine adjustments. During recording, turn the zoom ring to the desired speed.

Zoom ring

For wide-angle

For telephoto

Note

If you turn the zoom ring quickly, the zoom may not respond to the zoom ring adjustment. Rotate the zoom ring with appropriate speed.

Using the digital zoom – Zoom greater than 12×

Zoom greater than 12× is performed digitally, if you set D ZOOM to 24× or 48× in the menu settings. The digital zoom function is set to OFF as a default setting (p. 120). If you use the digital zoom function, the picture quality deteriorates.

Recording

– Basics

The right-ended portion of the bar shows the digital zooming zone. The digital zooming zone appears when you set D ZOOM to 24× or 48×.

You cannot use the digital zoom:

– When you set PROG. SCAN to ON in the menu settings (p. 120). – When the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector is set to MEMORY.

Page 26

Recording a picture

Indicators displayed during recording

The indicators are not recorded on the tapes.

[a] [b] [c]

00:00:00:01

4 7 2001

[k]

REC

45min

DVCAM

12:05:56

[j] [i]

[a]Remaining battery capacity indicator

This appears after you turn on the power and wait for a while. When uREMAIN is set to LI-ION in the menu settings, “Li” is indicated, and when it is set to NI-CD, “Ni” is indicated.

[b]Cassette memory indicator

This appears when using a tape with cassette memory.

[c] STBY/REC indicator [d]Time code/User bits [e]Remaining tape indicator

This appears after you insert a cassette.

[f] Guide frame [g]DVCAM format/DV format in SP mode indicator [h]Audio mode indicator [i] Time indicator [j] ND filter indicator

The most suitable mode will flash regardless of the current mode. After you select the appropriate position, it will stop flashing and remain on when the DISPLAY switch located on the front of the viewfinder is set to ON, or it will disappear when the DISPLAY switch is set to OFF.

[k]Date indicator

32K

[d] [e]

[f] [g]

[h]

Time code

The time code indicates the recording or playback time, “00:00:00:00” (hours : minutes : seconds : frames). You cannot rewrite only the time code. You can preset the time code. The time code can be preset or be reset during recording (p. 105).

On user bits display

You can display the user bits by setting the DISPLAY SELECT switch to U-BIT (p. 109).

Remaining tape indicator

The indicator may not be displayed accurately depending on the tape.

Note on the date/time indicator

Recording date/time is not displayed during shooting, however, it is automatically recorded on the tape. You can check the recording date/time during playback by pressing DATA CODE. When you want to display the date and time during shooting, set DATE REC to ON in the menu settings. However, once you record with the date and time, you cannot erase them.

Page 27

Recording a picture

On remaining battery capacity indicator

The camcorder cannot detect the type of the battery pack automatically. According to your battery pack, set up the uREMAIN item properly (p. 10). A wrong setup does not indicate the correct battery capacity.

Shooting backlit subjects (BACK LIGHT)

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

Press BACK LIGHT in standby, recording, or memory mode. The . indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. To cancel, press BACK LIGHT again.

If you press SPOT LIGHT when using the backlight function

The backlight function will be canceled and the spot light function will be enabled.

When you manually adjust two or more functions from the following: iris, gain, and shutter speed

You cannot use the backlight function.

Recording

– Basics

SPOT LIGHT

BACK LIGHT

Page 28

Recording a picture

Spot light

This function prevents people’s faces, for example, from appearing excessively white when shooting subjects lit by strong light, such as in the theater.

Press SPOT LIGHT in standby, recording, or memory mode. The indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. To cancel, press SPOT LIGHT again.

If you press BACK LIGHT when using the spot light function

The spot light function will be canceled and the backlight function will be enabled.

SPOT LIGHT

BACK LIGHT

You cannot use the spotlight mode while in the following settings:

– Old movie – Shutter speed value of 1/25 or smaller – When you manually adjust two or more functions from the following: iris, gain, and

shutter speed

Page 29

Checking the recording – END SEARCH / EDITSEARCH / Rec Review

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

Recording

EDITSEARCH

END SEARCH

Searching the end point of the recording — END SEARCH

You can easily go to the end of the last recorded portion.

Press END SEARCH in standby mode. The camcorder rewinds or fast-forwards the tape and the last five-second recorded picture is played back. After playback the camcorder turns to standby mode. You can monitor the sound from the speaker or headphones.

Changing the next recording start point — EDITSEARCH

You can change the next recording start point in standby mode.

Hold down the +/– side of EDITSEARCH in standby mode. The recorded picture is played back. +: to go forward – : to go backward Release EDITSEARCH to stop playback. If you press START/STOP, re-recording begins from the point you released EDITSEARCH. You cannot monitor the sound.

– Basics

Checking the last recorded picture — Rec Review

You can check the last recorded portion.

Press the –7 side of EDITSEARCH momentarily in standby mode. The last few-seconds of picture is played back and the camcorder returns to standby. You can monitor the sound from the speaker or headphones.

End search function

When you use a tape without cassette memory, the end search function does not work once you eject the cassette after you record on the tape. If you use a tape with cassette memory, the end search function works even once you eject the cassette. If there is a blank portion at the beginning or between the recorded portions, the end search function may not work correctly (p. 158).

Page 30

— Playback – Basics —

Playing back a tape

You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. You can also control playback using the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder.

(1) Install the power source. (2) Set the POWER switch to ON and insert the recorded tape. (3) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (4) Press m to rewind the tape. (5) Press N to start playback. (6) To adjust the volume, turn the MONITOR knob.

To increase

the volume To decrease the volume

POWER

OFF

To stop playback

Press x.

REW

MEMORY

CAMERA

VTR

PLAY

Page 31

Playing back a tape

When monitoring on the LCD screen

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

To select the audio output channel via the speaker or PHONES jack

Select the channels using the AUDIO MONITOR selector.

CH-1: Channel 1 audio MIX: Mixed audio (channels 1 and 2) CH-2: Channel 2 audio

To control the display of the screen indicators

(1) Set the DISPLAY switch located on the front of the viewfinder to ON. If the

switch is not set to ON, the DISPLAY button does not function.

(2) Press DISPLAY on the camcorder or on the Remote Commander supplied with

your camcorder.

The indicators appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. To make the indicators disappear, press DISPLAY again.

DISPLAY

Playback

– Basics

DISPLAY

DATA CODE

ON OFF

DISPLAY

DATA CODE

DISPLAY switch

Page 32

Playing back a tape

Using the data code function

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

Press DATA CODE on the camcorder or on the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder in playback mode.

The display changes as follows: date/time t various settings (SteadyShot OFF, white balance, gain, shutter speed, aperture value, exposure mode) t no indicator

Date/time Various settings

4 7 2001 12:05:56

[a] SteadyShot OFF indicator [b] Exposure mode indicator [c] White balance mode indicator [d] Gain indicator [e] Shutter speed indicator [f] Aperture value

To not display the various settings

Set DATA CODE to DATE in the menu settings (p. 120). The display changes as follows: date/time y no indicator

AUTO 50 ATW F1.6 0dB

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

Recording data

Recording data is your camcorder’s information when you have recorded something. In CAMERA mode, the recording data will not be displayed.

When you use the data code function, “-- -- ----” (date) or “-- : -- : --” (time) appears if:

– A blank portion of the tape is being played back. – The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise. – The tape was recorded by the camcorder without the date and time set.

Data code

When you connect your camcorder to a monitor, the data code also appears on the monitor screen (p. 35).

Note on the date/time indicator

Page 33

Playing back a tape

If the aperture adjustment is set to minimum

“CLOSE” is displayed at the location of the aperture value.

Various playback modes

To operate video control buttons, set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR.

To view a still picture (playback pause)

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

To advance the tape

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

To rewind the tape

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

To change the playback direction

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

To locate a scene monitoring the picture (picture search)

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

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

Keep pressing m while rewinding or M while advancing the tape until the picture appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. To resume rewinding or advancing, release the button.

To view the picture at slow speed (slow playback)

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

To view the picture at double speed

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

To view the picture frame-by-frame

Press in playback pause mode. For frame-by-frame playback in the reverse direction, press . To resume normal playback, press N.

To search the last scene recorded (END SEARCH)

Press END SEARCH in stop mode. The last five seconds of the recorded portion plays back and stops.

Playback

– Basics

In various playback modes

•Sound is muted.

•The previous picture may remain as a mosaic image during playback.

When the playback pause mode lasts for five minutes

Your camcorder automatically enters the stop mode. To resume playback, press N.

Slow playback

Slow playback can be performed smoothly on your camcorder, however, this function does not work for a signal output through the DV IN/OUT connector.

Page 34

Playing back a tape

When you play back a tape in reverse

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

Note on DV-formatted tapes

You can play back DV-formatted tapes on this camcorder if the tape is recorded in SP mode. “DV SP” appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder during playback. You cannot play back DV-formatted tapes recorded in LP mode.

Page 35

Viewing the recording on a monitor

Connect your camcorder to your monitor or VCR with the A/V connecting cable to watch the playback picture on the monitor screen. You can operate the video control buttons in the same way as when you monitor playback pictures on the LCD screen. Refer to the operating instructions of your monitor or VCR.

S VIDEO VIDEO IN/OUT AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1/CH-2

(not supplied)

Yellow

VIDEO

: Signal flow

OUT

(not supplied)

White

Red

If your monitor is connected to a VCR

Connect your camcorder to the line input on the VCR by using the A/V connecting cable. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.

S VIDEO VIDEO

MONITOR

AUDIO

Playback

– Basics

If your monitor or VCR is a monaural type

Connect with the monitor or VCR using the audio cable (monaural y stereo) (not supplied).

If your monitor or VCR has a BNC-type connector for video input

Connect it to the VIDEO OUT connector on the side of the camcorder using a cable with BNC connectors. In this connection, you need not connect the S video cable nor the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable.

If your monitor or VCR has an S video jack

Connect using an S video cable (not supplied) to obtain high-quality pictures. With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect the S video cable (not supplied) to the S video jacks on both your camcorder and the monitor or the VCR. This connection produces higher quality DVCAM/DV format pictures.

When you adjust the monitor screen

Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to CAMERA, and set COLOUR BAR to ON in the menu settings (p. 120). The colour bars are displayed on the monitor screen.

Page 36

— Advanced Recording Operations —

[a]

[b]

AUTO MODE

OFF

Shooting with manual adjustment

Under normal conditions, this unit automatically makes various adjustments as it shoots. However, you can adjust the following functions manually to suit your preference.

Functions you can adjust by setting the AUTO MODE switch to OFF

Iris, gain, shutter speed, and white balance

Functions you can adjust in menu settings

Deactivating the SteadyShot

Functions you can adjust by using other selectors/rings

ND filter, zebra pattern, focus, AE shift, and zoom

The following describes how to adjust all the functions mentioned above except ND filter (p. 17), zoom (p. 24), focus (p. 45), and white balance (p. 47) .

AUTO MODE switch

ON [a]

Select this position to let the unit adjust the iris, gain, shutter speed, and white balance automatically.

OFF [b]

Select this position to adjust the iris, gain, shutter speed, or white balance manually.

Notes

•The functions (iris, gain, or shutter speed) that are not adjusted manually will be automatically adjusted even if the AUTO MODE switch is set to OFF.

•When you manually adjust two or more functions from the following during backlight or spot light mode: iris, gain, and shutter speed, the backlight or spot light function will be automatically cancelled.

Page 37

Shooting with manual adjustment

Adjusting the iris

Adjust the iris manually depending on the depth of field.

(1) Set the AUTO MODE switch to OFF while the camcorder is in standby,

recording, or memory mode.

(2) Set the IRIS switch to MAN. The iris indicator appears on the LCD screen or in

the viewfinder.

(3) Turn the IRIS ring to adjust the iris.

As you turn the ring, the F value changes as follows: F1.6 y ... y F11 y CLOSE. For a smaller aperture, select a higher value.

Advanced Recording Operations

IRIS

MAN AUTO

PUSH AUTO

F2.8

AUTO MODE

OFF

To return to automatic iris mode

Set the IRIS switch to AUTO or set the AUTO MODE switch to ON. The iris indicator disappears from the LCD or viewfinder screen. However, when you set the AUTO MODE switch to ON, other manual adjustments (gain, shutter speed, and white balance) will be also cancelled.

To shoot with automatic iris adjustment momentarily

Press IRIS PUSH AUTO. The automatic adjustment functions while you are pressing IRIS PUSH AUTO. When you release IRIS PUSH AUTO, the manual adjustment resumes.

About the depth of field

The depth of field is the in-focus range, measured from the distance behind a subject to the distance in front. The depth of field can vary with the iris (F value) and the focal length. Lowering the F value (large iris) reduces the depth of field. Raising the F value (small iris) provides a larger depth of field. Zooming in telephoto position offers a smaller depth of field while the depth of field in the wide-angle position is greater.

The depth of field Shallow Deep

Iris Near open (Low F value) Near close (High F value) Zoom Telephoto (T) Wide (W)

Page 38

Shooting with manual adjustment

Adjusting the gain

(1) Set the AUTO MODE switch to OFF while the camcorder is in standby,

recording, or memory mode.

(2) Set the AGC switch to OFF. The gain indicator appears on the LCD screen or in

the viewfinder.

(3) Switch the GAIN selector to select the desired gain value.

The gain value can be selected between three positions (H/M/L) and each value is select from 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 15 dB and 18 dB in 3 dB steps using the GAIN LEVEL item in the menu settings. The default setting is as follows: 18 dB (H), 9 dB (M), and 0 dB (L).

AUTO MODE

OFF

AGC

OFF

0dB

GAIN

H M L

To return to automatic gain mode

Set the AGC switch to ON or set the AUTO MODE switch to ON. The gain indicator disappears from the LCD or viewfinder screen. However, when you set the AUTO MODE switch to ON, other manual adjustments (iris, shutter speed, and white balance) will be also cancelled.

When the gain value is 3 dB or higher

The GAIN UP lamp (orange) in the viewfinder lights.

Page 39

Shooting with manual adjustment

Setting the gain values for the positions of the GAIN selector

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby, recording, or memory mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select

, then press the dial.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select GAIN LEVEL, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select H, then press the dial. (5) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the gain value for the H position.

The value changes between 0 dB and 18 dB.

(6) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. (7) Repeat steps 4 to 6 to adjust the gain values for the M and L positions. (8) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

1,8

PRESET

CUSTOM

MANUAL SET

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN

MANUAL SET

GAIN LEVEL

H M L

[MENU] : END

RETURN

[

MENU] : END

18dB

MANUAL SET

GAIN LEVEL

H M L RETURN

5-7

MANUAL SET

GAIN LEVEL

H M L RETURN

[MENU] : END

2-4

18dB

Advanced Recording Operations

18dB

[MENU] : END

Page 40

Shooting with manual adjustment

Adjusting the shutter speed

(1) Set the AUTO MODE switch to OFF while the camcorder is in standby,

recording, or memory mode.

(2) Set the SHUTTER switch to ON. The shutter speed set by the SHTR SPEED

item in the menu settings will be indicated on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

AUTO MODE

OFF

To return to automatic shutter speed mode

Set the SHUTTER switch to OFF or set the AUTO MODE switch to ON. The shutter speed indicator disappears from the LCD or viewfinder screen. However, when you set the AUTO MODE switch to ON, other manual adjustments (iris, gain, and white balance) will be also cancelled.

SHUTTER

OFF ON

When you select the shutter speed values other than 1/50

The SHUTTER lamp (red) in the viewfinder lights.

When shooting at slow shutter speed

At slow shutter speed, automatic focus may be lost. Adjust the focus manually using a tripod.

When shooting under fluorescent light or light bulbs

When shooting under fluorescent light or light bulbs, a rare phenomenon may happen in which the screen lights up brightly depending on the shutter speed (Flicker phenomenon).

Page 41

Shooting with manual adjustment

Adjusting the shutter speed value

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby, recording, or memory mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select SHTR SPEED, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired speed. As you turn the

dial, the shutter speed changes as follows: 1/3 y 1/6 y 1/12 y ... y 1/3500 y 1/6000 y 1/10000 To increase the shutter speed, select a smaller setting (large value indicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder).

(5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

1,5

PRESET

CUSTOM

, then press the dial.

MANUAL SET

2-4

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN

Advanced Recording Operations

MANUAL SET

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL

[MENU] : END

AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN RETURN

MANUAL SET

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL

[MENU] : END

AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN RETURN

[MENU] : END

When you set the shutter speed value to 1/25 or smaller

You cannot use the spot light (p. 28) and digital effect (p. 69) functions.

Page 42

Shooting with manual adjustment

Shooting with the zebra pattern

You can set the camcorder to display a zebra pattern (diagonal stripes) in the portion of the picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder with a subject whose brightness exceeds a certain level. The portion of the picture where zebra pattern appears is an area of high brightness and overexposure (when the ZEBRA selector is set to “100”). You can check the picture level of a subject by displaying the zebra pattern. Use the zebra pattern as a guide for adjusting the exposure and shutter speed so that you can get the desired picture.

Set the ZEBRA selector to 70 or 100 in standby or memory mode.

ZEBRA

OFF

100

Setting

Meaning

The zebra pattern appears in the portion of the picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder with a subject whose brightness is about 70%.

100

The zebra pattern appears in the portion of the picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder with a subject whose brightness exceeds more than 100%.

OFF

The zebra pattern does not appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

To erase the zebra pattern

Set the ZEBRA selector to OFF.

Note on shooting with the zebra pattern

Even though you see the zebra pattern on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder, the zebra pattern is not recorded.

Page 43

Shooting with manual adjustment

Releasing the SteadyShot function

When the SteadyShot function is working, the camcorder compensates for camerashake. You can release the SteadyShot function when you do not need to use it. The indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. Do not use the SteadyShot function when shooting a stationary object with a tripod.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby or memory mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select STEADYSHOT, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select OFF, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

, then press the dial.

Advanced Recording Operations

1,5

PRESET

CUSTOM

2-4

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W

DE STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W

[MENU] : END

STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURN

[MENU] : END

ON OFF

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W

DE STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURN

[MENU] : END

To activate the SteadyShot function again

Select ON in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

Notes on the SteadyShot function

•The SteadyShot function will not correct excessive camera-shake.

•If you use a tele conversion lens (not supplied) or a wide conversion lens (not

supplied), these lens may influence the SteadyShot function.

OFF

Page 44

Shooting with manual adjustment

Adjusting the AE shift

You can adjust the AE shift in accordance with shooting conditions and a subject.

(1) Push the AE SHIFT switch in the direction of the arrow and release it in

standby, recording, or memory mode. The AE shift indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the brightness.

To deactivate AE shift

Set the AE shift value to 0, or push the AE SHIFT switch in the direction of the arrow and release it again.

SHIFT

When you adjust AE shift

The –4 to +4 indicator is displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. The number varies corresponding to the AE shift level.

Page 45

Focusing manually

You can gain better results by manually adjusting the focus in the following cases:

•The autofocus mode is not effective when shooting – subjects through glass coated with water droplets – horizontal stripes – subjects with little contrast with backgrounds such as walls and sky

•When you want to change the focus from a subject in the foreground to a subject in the

background

•Shooting a stationary subject when using a tripod

(1) Slide FOCUS down to MANUAL. The 9 indicator appears on the LCD screen

or in the viewfinder in recording, standby, or memory mode.

(2) Turn the focus ring to sharpen the focus.

Advanced Recording Operations

FOCUS

AUTO

MANUAL

INFINITY

PUSH AUTO

To return to the autofocus mode

Slide FOCUS up to AUTO to turn off the 9 or indicator.

To focus in infinity

Slide FOCUS to INFINITY. The indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. This function is useful when the nearer subject is focused automatically, even though you want to focus on a faraway subject.

To shoot with auto focusing momentarily

Press FOCUS PUSH AUTO. The auto focus functions while you are pressing FOCUS PUSH AUTO. Use this button to focus on one subject and then another with smooth focusing. When you release FOCUS PUSH AUTO, manual focusing resumes.

Page 46

Focusing manually

To obtain the correct focus

First, focus on a subject manually with the zoom set toward the “T” (telephoto) side, then adjust the zoom by pressing the “W” side of the lever gradually.

When you shoot close to the subject

Focus at the end of the “W” (wide-angle) position.

9 changes as follows:

when recording a distant subject.

when the subject is too close to focus on.

Page 47

Adjusting the white balance

White balance adjustment makes white subjects look white and allows more natural colour balance for camera recording. Normally, white balance is automatically adjusted. You can obtain better results by adjusting the white balance manually when lighting conditions change quickly or when recording outdoors: e.g., neon signs, fireworks.

Saving an appropriate white balance value in memory

You can save two white balance values in separate memories, A and B. Unless changed, the saved values are retained for approximately four months, even when the power supply is detached from the camcorder. Once a value is saved, you can automatically restore the adjustment by setting the WHITE BAL switch to the A or B position. This makes shooting under alternating lighting conditions easy.

(1) Set the AUTO MODE switch to OFF while the camcorder is in standby,

recording, or memory mode.

(2) Set the ATW switch to OFF. (3) Set the WHITE BAL switch to A or B. (4) Arrange a white subject (paper, cloth, etc.) under the same lighting conditions

as for shooting, and zoom in on it so that as far as possible the whole screen is white.

(5) Push the WHT BAL switch upward and release it.

The white balance adjustment is carried out. The quickly. When the white balance has been adjusted and stored in the memory, the indicator stops flashing. The adjustment value is automatically saved in memory A or B as selected above. To save the white balance adjustment for different lighting conditions, repeat steps 2 to 4 above. You can save two different values for the white balance, in memories A and B.

or B indicator flashes

Advanced Recording Operations

AUTO MODE

OFF

ATW

OFF

B A

BAL

WHITE

WHT BAL

Page 48

Adjusting the white balance

To recall a white balance value from memory

Before beginning shooting, set the WHITE BAL switch to the A or B position. This automatically sets the camcorder to the white balance adjustment saved in the corresponding memory.

Shooting when lighting conditions have changed

•When lighting conditions have changed, readjust the white balance while the camcorder is in standby mode.

•In automatic white balance mode, point your camcorder at a white subject for about 10 seconds after setting the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to CAMERA to get a better adjustment when:

– You detach the battery for replacement. – You bring your camcorder outdoors from the interior of a house, or vice versa.

If the A or B indicator does not stop flashing in step 5

The white balance cannot be set. Use the automatic white balance mode.

Using the preset white balance settings

The camcorder provides preset white balance settings, for instant shooting with approximately the correct adjustment. There are also particular shooting conditions under which the preset values may give better results than the human eye adjustment.

Page 49

Adjusting the white balance

(1) Set the AUTO MODE switch to OFF while the camcorder is in standby,

recording, or memory mode.

(2) Set the ATW switch to OFF. (3) Set the WHITE BAL switch to PRESET. (4) Set the position as follows with the WHT PRESET switch.

Position

5800K

(Outdoor)

n 3200K (Indoor)

Shooting conditions

•Recording a sunset/sunrise, just after sunset, just before sunrise, neon signs, or fireworks

•Under a colour matching fluorescent lamp

•Lighting condition changes quickly

•Too bright a place such as a photography studio

•Under sodium lamps or mercury lamps

Advanced Recording Operations

AUTO MODE

OFF

5800K

3200K

OFF

ATW

BAL

WHITE

PRESET

B A

2 1

3 4

To return to automatic adjustment

Set the ATW switch to ON or set the AUTO MODE switch to ON. However, when you set the AUTO MODE switch to ON, other manual adjustment (iris, gain, and shutter speed) will be also cancelled.

Notes on white balance

•When you shoot with studio lighting or video lighting, use the n 3200K (indoor) mode.

•When you select the n 3200K position, you cannot properly adjust the white balance, even if you shoot with fluorescent lighting. In such cases, readjust it manually or shoot in automatic white balance mode.

Page 50

Presetting the adjustment for picture quality – Custom preset

You can preset the camcorder to record the picture with the desired picture quality. When you preset, we recommend that you check the picture quality by displaying the picture onto the monitor screen, which is connected to the camcorder.

(1) Turn the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the CUSTOM PRESET direction

and release it to display the CUSTOM PRESET menu in standby or memory mode.

(2) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select SET, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired item, then press the dial. (6) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the selected item, then press the dial. (7) Turn the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the CUSTOM PRESET direction

and release it . The CUSTOM PRESET menu disappears and the indicator LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

appears on the

PRESET

CUSTOM

PRESET

CUSTOM

CUSTOM PRESET

CUSTOM PRESET STBY

SET COLOUR LVL SHARPNESS WB SH AGC LIMIT RESET

[CP] : END

OFF

2-4

5,6

CUSTOM PRESET STBY

SET COLOUR LVL SHARPNESS WB SH AGC LIMIT RESET RETURN

[CP] : END

CUSTOM PRESET STBY

SET COLOUR LVL SHARPNESS WB SH AGC LIMIT RESET RETURN

[CP] : END

OFF

CUSTOM PRESET STBY

SET COLOUR LVL SHARPNESS WB SH AGC LIMIT RESET RETURN

[CP] : END

CUSTOM PRESET STBY

COLOUR LVL

[CP] : END

OFF ON

CUSTOM PRESET STBY

SET COLOUR LVL SHARPNESS WB SH

FT AGC LIMIT RESET RETURN

[CP] : END

Page 51

Presetting the adjustment for picture quality – Custom preset

Items to be adjusted

Item

COLOUR LVL

SHARPNESS WB SHIFT AGC LIMIT RESET

Meaning

Colour intensity

Sharpness White balance Auto Gain-limit Sets items above to the default

settings.

Adjustment value

Decreases colour intensity y Increases colour intensity

Softer y Sharper Bluish y Reddish 6 dB/12 dB/OFF

To cancel using the custom preset

Select OFF in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

To return to the standard setting

Select OK from the RESET item in step 5, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. To cancel, select RETURN, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

To check the custom preset setting

Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the CUSTOM PRESET direction and release it while the camcorder is in standby, recording, or memory mode. The custom preset setting appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

About the AGC limit

When adjusting the gain manually, the level of the gain is up to 18 dB (OFF).

When you preset the desired picture quality in CAMERA or memory mode

The preset is only available in each mode you preset. If you want to use a preset both in CAMERA and memory modes, you have to preset in each mode.

Advanced Recording Operations

Page 52

Using the guide frame

You can easily make the picture be on a horizontal or vertical line using the guide frame. The guide frame is not recorded.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby, recording, or memory mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select GUIDEFRAME, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display. The guide frame is displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

PRESET

CUSTOM

PRESET

CUSTOM

, then press the dial.

LCD SET

2-4

LCD COLOUR GUIDEFRAME

LCD SET

[MENU] : END

LCD COLOUR GUIDEFRAME RETURN

LCD SET

LCD COLOUR GUIDEFRAME RETURN

[MENU] : END

OFF ON

To clear the guide frame

•Select OFF in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

•Simply press DISPLAY or set the DISPLAY switch located on the front of the

viewfinder to OFF.

Note

The guide frame indicates only a rough level. The size and position of the guide frame do not affect the setting of the camcorder.

If you set GUIDEFRAME to ON

The screen indicators other than the guide frame are also displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

When the DISPLAY switch located on the front of the viewfinder is set to OFF

The guide frame will not be displayed.

Page 53

Marking an Index

If you mark an index at the scene you want to search for, you can easily search for the scene later (p. 77).

In recording mode [a]:

Press INDEX MARK. The “INDEX MARK” indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder for seven seconds and after the indicator disappears, the index marking is complete.

In standby mode [b]:

Press INDEX MARK. The “INDEX STBY” indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. And when you press START/STOP to start recording, the “INDEX STBY” indicator changes to “INDEX MARK” and after the indicator disappears, the index marking is complete. The camcorder starts index-marking at the 11th frame from the recording start point. An index signal will be recorded on cassette memory about 0.3 sec, and on a tape about five seconds. You can mark an index in VTR mode (p. 97).

Advanced Recording Operations

[a] [b]

STBY

INDEX MARK

REC

INDEX

MARK

REC

INDEX

STBY

INDEX

MARK

To cancel index marking

Press INDEX MARK again in standby mode.

Notes on the index

•

Index marks are recorded during recording, you cannot mark an index after recording.

•Index signals will be recorded both on the tape and on cassette memory. If you use cassettes without cassette memory or the cassette memory is full, the signals will be recorded only on the tape.

•When you record over the recorded tape and mark an index on the tape, we recommend that you clear all data in the cassette memory before marking an index.

Page 54

Adjusting the recording level manually – Sound recording level

You can adjust the recording sound level. We recommend that you check the recording level before recording. You can adjust the channel 1 and channel 2 separately.

(1) Select the audio input using the AUDIO INPUT (CH-1/CH-2) switches.

To select the audio input for channel 1, use the AUDIO INPUT (CH-1) switch, and for channel 2, use the AUDIO INPUT (CH-2) switch.

FRONT: Inputs from the MIC IN +48V connector REAR: Inputs from the AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors

(2) Select the channel to be adjusted manually using the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/

CH-2) switches.

AUTO: Adjusts the recording level automatically MANUAL: Adjusts the recording level manually

(3) Adjust the recording level for each channel using the AUDIO LEVEL knobs.

Use the audio level meters at the lower on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder for adjustment.

1,2

AUDIO

INPUT

FRONT REAR

AUDIO

SELECT

AUTO

MANUAL

AUTO

MANUAL

CH-1

CH-2

3,4

CH-1

AUDIO LEVEL

To adjust the recording level automatically

Set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1) switch to AUTO for channel 1, and set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-2) switch to AUTO for channel 2.

To display the audio level meters

Press AUDIO LEVEL.

The sound input through the AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1/CH-2 jacks or DV IN/OUT connector

You cannot adjust the recording level.

CH-2

Page 55

Adjusting the recording level manually– Sound recording level

Notes on the recording level of the channel 1

• You can adjust the level from both the MIC IN +48V and AUDIO IN CH1 connectors.

•You can also adjust the level using the AUDIO LEVEL knob located on the front,

however, when the AUDIO LEVEL knob located on the side panel is near minimum level, you cannot turn up the volume using the AUDIO LEVEL knob located on the front.

Advanced Recording Operations

Page 56

Connecting an optional external microphone

You can also use an external 48-V microphone by connecting it to the MIC IN +48V connector. (The optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder is required.)

Installing the optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder

Remove the two retaining screws (M3 × 12) for the optional microphone holder, then use these screws to attach the CAC-12 Microphone Holder.

CAC-12

Screws removed from the camcorder

Fitting an optional microphone

Use the following procedure to attach an optional ECM-670 Microphone.

(1) Loosen the screw of the CAC-12 Microphone Holder, then open the holder and

replace the microphone adaptor with the one supplied with the ECM-670 Microphone.

(2) Insert the microphone in the microphone holder, close the holder, and tighten

the screw. Connect the microphone cable to the MIC IN +48 V connector.

Microphone adaptor

MIC IN +48 V connector

Mark

Page 57

Connecting an optional external microphone

To fit optional microphones (operable with a 48 V supply) other than the ECM-670

Use the same fitting procedure as for the ECM-670, but note the following differences with respect to the microphone adaptor.

ECM-672: no microphone adaptor required. Slender microphones (19 mm (3/4 inch) diameter): use the microphone adaptor

supplied with the CAC-12.

Note

When you use an external microphone, make sure that the wind screen does not appear on the screen, using an underscan monitor.

When you unplug the microphone plug

Unplug it while pressing the PUSH button.

When using a microphone which is not powered through its cable

Connect the microphone to the AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connector and set the LINE/MIC selector to MIC.

Advanced Recording Operations

Page 58

Using an external audio system or microphone

Connect an audio mixer or other external audio system component to the AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors.

(1) Connect an audio mixer or other external audio system component to the

AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connector.

(2) Set the AUDIO INPUT switch that corresponds to the channel that the cable is

connected to REAR.

(3) Set up the following.

When connecting a microphone:

Set the LINE/MIC selector that corresponds to the channel that the cable is connected to MIC. If the microphone is powered through its cable, set it to +48V ON.

When connecting audio equipment:

Set the LINE/MIC selector that corresponds to the channel that the cable is connected to LINE.

AUDIO

INPUT

FRONT REAR

LINE MIC

+48V

LINE MIC

+48V

Note

If you use other than the 48-V microphone with the LINE/MIC selector set to +48V ON, a malfunction of the connected equipment may occur.

When you unplug the microphone plug

Unplug it while pressing the PUSH button.

When the external unit is compatible with 12-V power

The camcorder can supply 12-V power to the unit from the DC OUT 12V connector.

Page 59

Backing up recordings to another tape

You can easily make backup copies of recordings to the VCR connected to your camcorder with the DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable). Setting EXT RECCTL in the menu settings to ON synchronizes the recording start/pause operation of the external VCR with the START/STOP button on your camcorder.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select

, then press the dial.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXT RECCTL, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

1,5

OTHERS

WORLD TIME BEEP COMMANDER DI SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER

OTHERS

WORLD TIME BEEP

[MENU] : END

COMMANDER DI SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER RETURN

[MENU] : END

OFF ON

OTHERS

WORLD TIME BEEP COMMANDER DI SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER RETURN

[MENU] : END

PRESET

CUSTOM

2-4

Advanced Recording Operations

To cancel recording start/pause synchronization

Select OFF in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

Note on the external VCR

We recommend that you turn the external VCR to recording pause before recording.

When you use one of the following functions, you cannot make backup copies to a VCR

•Tape Photo recording

•Interval recording

•Cut recording

Page 60

Using a video light

You can use the Anton Bauer Ultralight 2 or equivalent. Use a video light powered by 12 V with maximum power consumption of 30 W.

•If you connect the video light to the LIGHT connector on the camcorder and set the LIGHT switch to AUTO, you can turn the light on and off automatically as you start and stop the recording.

•The output of the LIGHT connector on the camcorder is controlled to 12 V even when the camcorder is supplied with 12 V or more power (through the DC IN 12V connector or battery pack). The brightness or colour temperature of the light will not change according to voltage increase.

(1) Attach a video light to the accessory shoe on the handle and connect the plug

of the video light to the LIGHT connector.

(2) Set the LIGHT switch as follows to control the video light:

AUTO: Turns on the video light during recording if the power switch on the

video light is set to on. (When in Tape Photo recording or using the cut recording, the AUTO position is disable.) MAN: The video light always turns on depending on the position of the VTR/ CAMERA/MEMORY selector. (When you insert or eject the cassette, the video light momentarily turns on even if the POWER switch is set to OFF. To prevent the video light from turning on, turn off the video light using its power switch.)

Accessory shoe

LIGHT switch

LIGHT

Notes

•Use a video light with 12-V power, and power consumption of 30 W or less.

•The brightness or colour temperature of the light will change by the input voltage

when the supplied voltage is under 12 V.

When the LIGHT switch is set to AUTO

Turning on/off the video light is synchronized with the recording start/stop operation. The screen may momentarily glow in high-intensity according to recording conditions. To prevent this phenomenon from occurring, shoot in one of the following ways:

•Shoots in manual adjustment mode to fix the setting.

•Turns on the video light and shoots with the LIGHT switch on the camcorder set to

MAN.

Page 61

Superimposing the date and time on a picture

You can superimpose the date/time indication directly on the picture, besides the date/ time display as data code.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select DATE REC, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display. The date/time indicator displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

, then press the dial.

Advanced Recording Operations

1,5

PRESET

CUSTOM

2-4

OTHERS

[MENU] : END

WORLD T

I BEEP COMMANDER D

SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER

OTHERS

WORLD T BEEP COMMANDER D

SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER RETURN

[MENU] : END

OTHERS

WORLD T BEEP COMMANDER D

SPLAY EXT RECCTL DATE REC COLOUR BAR HRS METER RETURN

[MENU] : END

OFF ON

To cancel superimposing the date/time indication

Select OFF in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

Note

You cannot erase the recorded date/time data on the picture. Before using this function, make sure that you set the date and time correctly.

Page 62

Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording

You can record still images on tapes with all the pixels in the progressive mode. See page 64 for details. This mode is useful when you print images using a video printer (not supplied). Besides the operation described here, your camcorder can record still images on a “Memory Stick” (p. 134).

(1) In standby mode, keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a picture freezes. The

CAPTURE indicator appears. Recording does not start yet. To change the image, release PHOTO, select an image again, and then press and hold PHOTO lightly.

(2) Press PHOTO deeper.

The still image on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder is recorded for about seven seconds. The sound during those seven seconds is also recorded. The still image is displayed on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder until recording is completed.

PHOTO

CAPTURE

•••••••

The number of still images recordable on a cassette

DVCAM format DV format

DV cassette (60 minutes) — About 510 DV cassette (270 minutes) — About 2300 DVCAM cassette (40 minutes) About 340 — DVCAM cassette (184 minutes) About 1570 —

Notes

•During tape photo recording, you cannot change the mode or setting.

•The PHOTO button does not work: – While the fader function is set or in use. – While the digital effect function is set or in use.

•Do not shake the camcorder during tape photo recording, the recorded image may be

blurred.

Page 63

Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording

To do tape photo recording using the Remote Commander

Press PHOTO on the Remote Commander. Your camcorder immediately records an image on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

When you do tape photo recording during normal CAMERA recording

You cannot check an image on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder by pressing PHOTO lightly. Press PHOTO deeper. The still image is then recorded for about seven seconds and your camcorder returns to standby mode.

When shooting a moving object in Tape Photo recording

When playing back the image by another unit, the image may be blurred. This is not a malfunction.

Printing the still image

You can print a still image by using a video printer (not supplied). Connect with the video printer using the A/V connecting cable. Connect the yellow plugs of the cable to the video input of the video printer and the VIDEO IN/OUT jack on your camcorder. Refer to the operating instructions of the video printer as well.

VIDEO IN/OUT

: Signal flow

S VIDEO

(not supplied)

Advanced Recording Operations

Video printer

LINE IN

VIDEOS VIDEO

(not supplied)

If the video printer is equipped with an S video input

Use an S video connecting cable (not supplied). Connect it to the S VIDEO jack on your camcorder and the S video input of the video printer.

Page 64

Shooting with all the pixels – PROG. SCAN

To import moving images to your PC to view still images, we recommend you record in progressive mode. To use progressive mode, follow the procedure below. Still images produced this way are more stable than those recorded on a mini DV in normal mode, and thus are more suitable for analysing high-speed action such as sports scenes. (Since this camcorder takes in an image every 1/15 of a second in progressive mode, moving images recorded in this mode may be subject to too much jitter. To view moving images, we recommend recording in normal mode.)

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby mode.

, then press the dial.

MANUAL SET

2-4

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN

[MENU] : END

MANUAL SET

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN

RETURN

MANUAL SET

SHTR SPEED GAIN LEVEL AUTO SHTR PROG. SCAN

RETURN

[MENU] : END

OFF ON

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select PROG. SCAN, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display. The PROG. SCAN indicator lights up.

PRESET

CUSTOM

PROG. SCAN

PRESET

CUSTOM

To return to normal mode

Select OFF in step 4, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

Note on the progressive mode

A normal TV broadcast divides the screen into two finer fields and displays them in turns every 1/50 of a second. Thus, the actual image displayed in an instant covers only half of the apparent image area. Displaying the whole image simultaneously on a full screen is called displaying with all the pixels. In this mode, the resolution of the still picture is clearer than in the normal mode. This camcorder takes in an image every 2/25 of a second, which may cause the image of a moving object to go out of focus. This camcorder is originally programed to record in the normal TV format.

Page 65

Shooting with all the pixels – PROG. SCAN

When shooting under fluorescent light

When shooting in progressive mode under fluorescent light or light bulbs, a rare phenomenon may happen in which the screen lights up brightly (Flicker phenomenon). This is not a malfunction. If you want to stop this phenomenon, set PROG. SCAN to OFF in the menu settings.

On digital zooming

You cannot use digital zooming in this mode.

When the auto logo insert function is activated

You cannot use the progressive mode. Refer to the extra operating instructions, “Auto Logo Insert for Copyright Protection.”

Advanced Recording Operations

Page 66

Using the wide mode

You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on a 16:9 wide-screen monitor (16:9WIDE). Black bands appear on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder during recording in 16:9WIDE mode [a]. The picture during playback on a normal monitor [b] or on a widescreen monitor [c] is compressed in the widthwise direction. If you set the screen mode of the wide-screen monitor to the full mode, you can watch pictures of normal images

[d].

[a]

16:9

WIDE

In standby mode, set 16:9WIDE to ON in in the menu settings (p. 120).

[b]

[c]

PRESET

CUSTOM

[d]

To cancel the wide mode

Set 16:9WIDE to OFF in the menu settings (p. 120).

In wide mode, you cannot select the following modes:

•Old movie

•Progressive mode

During recording

You cannot operate the wide mode function. When you cancel the wide mode, set your camcorder to the standby mode and then set 16:9WIDE to OFF in the menu settings.

Page 67

Using the fader function

You can fade the picture in or out to give your recording a professional appearance.

FADER

OVERLAP*

WIPE*

DOT* (Random)

* Fade in only

[a]

[b]

RECSTBY

Advanced Recording Operations

RECSTBY

MONOTONE

When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black-and-white to colour. When fading out the picture gradually changes from colour to black-and-white.

Page 68

Using the fader function

(1) When fading in [a]

In standby mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes.

When fading out [b]

In recording mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. The indicator changes as follows: FADER t MONOTONE t OVERLAP t WIPE t DOT t no indicator The last selected fader mode is indicated first.

(2) Press START/STOP. After the fade in/out is carried out, your camcorder

automatically returns to the normal mode.

FADER

To cancel the fader function

Press FADER until the indicator disappears.

Note

You cannot use the following functions while using the fader function, and vice versa:

– Digital effect – Tape Photo recording – Interval recording – Cut recording

When the OVERLAP, WIPE, or DOT indicator appears

Your camcorder automatically stores the image recorded on a tape. As the image is being stored, the fader indicator flashes fast, and the playback picture appears.

Page 69

Using special effects – Digital effect

You can add special effects to recorded pictures using the various digital functions. The sound is recorded normally.

STILL

You can record a still image so that it is superimposed on a moving picture.

FLASH (FLASH MOTION)

You can record still images successively at constant intervals.

LUMI. (LUMINANCEKEY)

You can swap a brighter area in a still image with a moving picture.

TRAIL

You can record the picture so that an incidental image like a trail is left.

OLD MOVIE

You can add an old movie type atmosphere to pictures. The black bands appear on the upper and lower of the screen to change the virtual screen size to the cinemascope size, and the picture effect is set to SEPIA.

STILL

Still image

LUMI.

Moving picture

Advanced Recording Operations

Page 70

Using special effects – Digital effect

(1) In standby or recording mode, press DIGITAL EFFECT. The digital effect

indicator appears.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired digital effect mode.

The digital effect indicator changes as follows: STILL y FLASH y LUMI. y TRAIL y OLD MOVIE

(3) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. The indicator lights up and the bar appears.

In STILL and LUMI. modes, the still image is stored in memory.

(4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the effect.

Items to be adjusted

STILL The rate of the still image you want to superimpose on the

FLASH The interval of flash motion LUMI. The colour scheme of the area in the still image which is to be

TRAIL The time until the incidental image vanishes OLD MOVIE No adjustment necessary

The longer the bar on the screen, the stronger the digital effect. The bar appears in the following modes: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL.

moving picture

swapped with a moving picture

To cancel the digital effect

Press DIGITAL EFFECT. The digital effect indicator disappears.

Notes

•The following functions do not work in digital effect mode: – Fader – Tape Photo recording – Shutter speed (1/25 or smaller) adjustment

•The following functions do not work in old movie mode: – Wide mode – Spot light mode

When you manually adjust the shutter speed

OLD MOVIE will be automatically cancelled.

When you turn the power off

Digital effect will be automatically cancelled.

DIGITAL EFFECT

LUMI.

Page 71

Superimposing a still image in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX

You can superimpose a still image you have recorded on a “Memory Stick” on the top of the moving picture you are recording.

M. CHROM (Memory chromakey) You can swap a blue area of a still image such as an illustration or a frame with a moving picture.

M. LUMI (Memory luminancekey) You can swap a brighter area of a still image such as a handwritten illustration or title with a moving picture. Record a title on a “Memory Stick” before a trip or event for convenience.

C. CHROM (Camera chromakey) You can superimpose a moving picture on a still image that used as background. Shoot the subject against a blue background. The blue area of the moving picture will be swapped with a still image.

M. OVERLAP (Memory overlap) You can make a moving picture fade in on top of a still image.

Still image Moving picture Moving picture + Still image

M. CHROM

Background: blue

Advanced Recording Operations

M. LUMI

C. CHROM

M. OVERLAP

Still image Moving picture Moving picture + Still image

Background: blue

Moving picture

Still image + Still image Moving picture

Page 72

Superimposing a still image in a “Memory Stick” on a moving

100-0019

picture – MEMORY MIX

Before operation

Insert a recorded “Memory Stick” and a tape to be recorded into your camcorder.

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to CAMERA. (2) Press MEMORY MIX in standby mode.

The last recorded or last composed image appears on the lower part of the screen as a thumbnail image.

(3) Press MEMORY+/– or +/– on the Remote Commander to select the still image

you want to superimpose. To see the previous image, press MEMORY – or – on the Remote Commander. To see the next image, press MEMORY+ or + on the Remote Commander.

(4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired mode.

The mode changes as follows: M. CHROM y M. LUMI y C. CHROM y M. OVERLAP

(5) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

The still image is superimposed on the moving picture, and your camcorder is in standby mode.

(6) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the effect. (7) Press START/STOP to start recording.

CAMERA

MEMORY MIX

M. CHROM

MEMORY

VTR

100-0019

Still image

M. LUMI

100-0019

III••••

100-0019

I••••••

100-0019

Page 73

Superimposing a still image in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX

Items to be adjusted

M. CHROM The colour (blue) scheme of the area in the still picture which is to

be swapped with a moving picture

M. LUMI The colour (bright) scheme of the area in the still picture which

is to be swapped with a moving picture

C. CHROM The colour (blue) scheme of the area in the moving picture

which is to be swapped with a still picture

M. OVERLAP No adjustment necessary

As the bar is shorter, the effect is enhanced.

To change the still image to be superimposed

Do either of the following:

– Press MEMORY+/– before step 7. – Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial after step 6, and repeat the procedure from step 3

(except M. OVERLAP).

To change the mode setting

Press SEL/PUSH EXEC dial after step 6, and repeat the procedure from step 4 (except M. OVERLAP).

To cancel MEMORY MIX

Press MEMORY MIX again.

During recording

You cannot change the mode setting.

Advanced Recording Operations

The “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder has 20 images stored

– For M. CHROM: 18 images (such as a frame) 100-0001 to 100-0018 – For C. CHROM: two images (such as background) 100-0019 to 100-0020

Sample images

Sample images stored in the “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder are protected (p. 149).

If a still image to be superimposed has lots of white areas

The thumbnail image may not be displayed clearly.

Image data modified with personal computers or shot with other equipment

You may not be able to play them back with your camcorder.

When the auto logo insert function is activated

You cannot use memory mix function. Refer to the extra operating instructions, “Auto Logo Insert for Copyright Protection.”

Page 74

Interval recording

You can make a time-lapse recording by setting the camcorder to automatically record and standby sequentially. You can achieve an excellent recording for flowering, emergence, etc., with this function.

[a]Recording time

Example

1 s

9 min 59 s

[a][a]

[b][b]

10 min 10 min

1 s

[b]Waiting time

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select

, then press the dial.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select INT. REC, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select SET, then press the dial. (5) Set INTERVAL and REC TIME.

1 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select INTERVAL, then press the dial. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired interval time, then

press the dial. The time: 30SEC y 1MIN y 5MIN y 10MIN.

3 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select REC TIME, then press the dial. 4 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired recording time, then

press the dial. The time: 0.5SEC y 1SEC y 1.5SEC y 2SEC.

5 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select

RETURN, then press the dial.

PRESET

CUSTOM

9 min 59 s

2-4

CAMERA SET

[MENU] : END

D ZOOM

16 : 9W STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURN

[MENU] : END

OFF

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM

16 : 9W STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURNONOFF

[MENU] : END

SET

CAMERA SET

1 2

NT. REC

REC T RETURN

[MENU] : END

CAMERA SET

3 4

I REC T

RETURN

[MENU] : END

NTERVAL

NT. REC

NTERVAL

30SEC

0 . 5SEC

CAMERA SET

NT. REC I

NTERVAL

REC T RETURN

[MENU] : END

CAMERA SET

NT. REC I

NTERVAL

REC T

RETURN

[MENU] : END

30SEC

1M I N 5M

10M

0 . 5SEC 1SEC 1

5SEC

2SEC

Page 75

Interval recording

(6) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (7) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display. The interval recording indicator flashes.

(8) Press START/STOP to start interval recording. The interval recording

indicator lights up.

PRESET

CUSTOM

NTERVAL

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W

DE STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURN

[MENU] : END

Advanced Recording Operations

To cancel the interval recording

•Set INT. REC to OFF in the menu settings.

•Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR or MEMORY.

To stop the interval recording momentarily and perform normal recording

Press START/STOP. You can perform normal recording only once. To cancel the normal recording, press START/STOP again.

On recording time

There may be a discrepancy in recording time of up to +/– 6 frames from the selected time.

If you set FRAME REC to ON in standby mode

The interval recording will be cancelled.

Even if you press INDEX MARK during interval recording

You cannot mark an index.

Page 76

Frame by frame recording – Cut recording

You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording. To create this effect, alternately move the subject a little and make a cut recording. We recommend that you use a tripod, and operate the camcorder using the Remote Commander after step 6.

(1) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu in standby mode.

(2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select FRAME REC, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (5) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display. The FRAME REC indicator lights up.

(6) Press START/STOP to start cut recording. The camcorder makes a recording

for about six frames, and returns to recording standby.

(7) Move the subject, and repeat step 6.

, then press the dial.

6,7

CUSTOM

PRESET

CUSTOM

PRESET

FRAME REC

2-4

CAMERA SET

[MENU] : END

D ZOOM 16 : 9W

DE STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURN

[MENU] : END

CAMERA SET

D ZOOM 16 : 9W

I STEADYSHOT FRAME REC I

NT. REC

RETURN

[MENU] : END

To cancel the cut recording

•Set FRAME REC to OFF in the menu settings.

•Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR or MEMORY.

Notes on cut recording

•The last recorded cut is longer than other cuts.

•The proper remaining tape time is not indicated if you use this function continuously.

•You cannot mark an index during cut recording.

OFF ON

If you set INT. REC to ON in standby mode

The cut recording will be cancelled.

Page 77

— Advanced Playback Operations —

Searching for a recording by index – Index search

You can automatically search for the point where an index is marked and start playback from that point (Index search). Use a tape with cassette memory for convenience. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Use this function to check where indexes are marked or to edit the tape at each sequence where the index is marked.

Searching for the index point using cassette memory

You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 158).

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in

is ON.

(3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the index

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t TITLE SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . or > on the Remote Commander to select the index point for

playback. Your camcorder automatically starts playing back at the selected index point.

to ON in the menu settings (p. 120). The default setting

Advanced Playback Operations

MODE

INDEX SEARCH 1 5 / 9 / 00

2 6 / 9 / 00 3 24 / 12 / 00 4 1 / 1 / 01 5 11 / 2 / 01 6 29 / 4 / 01

INDEX SEARCH 1 5 / 9 / 00

2 6 / 9 / 00 3 24 / 12 / 00 4 1 / 1 / 01 5 11 / 2 / 01 6 29 / 4 / 01

17:30

8:50 10:30 23:25 16:11 13:45

CAM LINE CAM CAM CAM CAM

17:30

8:50 10:30 23:25

16:11 13:45

[a] [b]

[a] Actual point you are trying to search for [b] Present point on the tape

To stop searching

Press x.

CAM LINE CAM CAM CAM CAM

MEMORY

CAMERA

VTR

Page 78

Searching for a recording by index – Index search

If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions

The index search function may not work correctly.

If you mark an index onto an external input signal

“LINE” appears in the CH column.

The index of the recording start point when recorded from external audio equipment

The index mark is not recorded in cassette memory when recorded from external audio equipment. If you want to search for the index point, set CM SEARCH to OFF in the menu settings and search for the index point without cassette memory.

Searching for the index point without using cassette memory

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in

without cassette memory, skip this step.

(3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the index

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . on the Remote Commander to search for the previous index point

or press > on the Remote Commander to search for the next index point. Your camcorder automatically starts playback at the selected index point. Each time you press . or >, your camcorder searches for the previous or next index point.

to OFF in the menu settings (p. 120). If using a tape

To stop searching

Press x.

Page 79

Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title – Title search

If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can search for the boundaries of recorded tape by title (Title search) (p. 158). Use the Remote Commander for this operation.

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in

is ON.

(3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the title

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t TITLE SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . or > on the Remote Commander to select the title for playback.

Your camcorder automatically starts playback of the scene having the title that you selected.

to ON in the menu settings (p. 120). The default setting

Advanced Playback Operations

MODE

TITLE SEARCH 1 SCENE1

2 SCENE2 3 SCENE3 4 SCENE4 5 SCENE5 6 SCENE6

TITLE SEARCH 3 SCENE3

4 SCENE4 5 SCENE5 6 SCENE6 7 SCENE7 8 SCENE8

[a] [b]

[a] Actual point you are trying to search for [b] Present point on the tape

To stop searching

Press x.

If you use a tape without cassette memory

You cannot superimpose or search for a title.

If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions

The title search function may not work correctly.

CAMERA

MEMORY

VTR

Page 80

Searching a recording by date – Date search

You can automatically search for the point where the recording date changes and start playback from that point (Date search). Use a tape with cassette memory for convenience. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Use this function to check where recording dates change or to edit the tape at each recording date.

Searching for the date using cassette memory

You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 158).

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in

is ON.

(3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the date

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t TITLE SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . or > on the Remote Commander to select the date for playback.

Your camcorder automatically starts playback at the beginning of the selected date.

to ON in the menu settings (p. 120). The default setting

MODE

DATE SEARCH

1 5 / 9 / 00 2 6 / 9 / 00 3 24 / 12 / 00 4 1 / 1 / 01 5 11 / 2 / 01 6 29 / 4 / 01

DATE SEARCH 1 5 / 9 / 00

2 6 / 9 / 00 3 24 / 12 / 00 4 1 / 1 / 01 5 11 / 2 / 01 6 29 / 4 / 01

[a] [b]

[a] Actual point you are trying to search for [b] Present point on the tape

To stop searching

Press x.

CAMERA

MEMORY

VTR

Page 81

Searching a recording by date – Date search

If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions

The date search function may not work correctly.

Searching for the date without using cassette memory

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in

without cassette memory, skip this step.

(3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the date

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . on the Remote Commander to search for the previous date or press

> on the Remote Commander to search for the next date. Your camcorder

automatically starts playback at the point where the date changes. Each time you press . or >, your camcorder searches for the previous or next date.

to OFF in the menu settings (p. 120). If using a tape

To stop searching

Press x.

Note

If one day’s recording is less than two minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes.

Advanced Playback Operations

Page 82

Searching for a photo – Photo search/ Photo scan

You can search for a still picture you have recorded on a tape (photo search). You can also search for still pictures one after another and display each picture for five seconds automatically regardless of cassette memory (photo scan). Use the Remote Commander for these operations. Use this function to check or edit still pictures.

Searching for a photo using cassette memory

You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 158).

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in

ON.

(3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t TITLE SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . or > on the Remote Commander to select the date for playback.

Your camcorder automatically starts playback of the photo having the date that you selected.

to ON in the menu settings (p. 120). Default setting is

MODE

PHOTO SEARCH 1 5 / 9 / 00

2 6 / 9 / 00 3 24 / 12 / 00 4 1 / 1 / 01 5 11 / 2 / 01 6 29 / 4 / 01

PHOTO SEARCH

1 5 / 9 / 00 2 6 / 9 / 00 3 24 / 12 / 00 4 1 / 1 / 01 5 11 / 2 / 01 6 29 / 4 / 01

17:30

8:50 10:30 23:25 16:11 13:45

17:30

8:50 10:30 23:25

16:11 13:45

[a] [b]

[a] Actual point you are trying to search for [b] Present point on the tape

To stop searching

Press x.

If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions

The photo search function may not work correctly.

CAMERA

MEMORY

VTR

Page 83

Searching for a photo – Photo search/Photo scan

Searching for a photo without using cassette memory

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in (3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo

search indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(4) Press . or > on the Remote Commander to select a photo for playback.

Each time you press . or >, your camcorder searches for the previous or next photo. Your camcorder automatically starts playback of the photo.

to OFF in the menu settings (p. 120).

To stop searching

Press x.

Scanning photo

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo

scan indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: INDEX SEARCH t TITLE SEARCH t DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator

(3) Press . or > on the Remote Commander.

Each photo is played back for about five seconds automatically.

Advanced Playback Operations

MODE

To stop scanning

Press x.

PHOTO 00

SCAN

CAMERA

MEMORY

VTR

Page 84

Playing back a tape with digital effects

During playback, you can process a scene using the digital effect functions: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL.

(1) In playback or playback pause mode, press DIGITAL EFFECT and turn the

SEL/PUSH EXEC dial until the desired digital effect indicator (STILL, FLASH, LUMI. or TRAIL) flashes.

(2) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

The digital effect indicator lights up and the bars appear. In STILL or LUMI. mode, the picture is captured and is stored in memory as a still picture at the time you press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the effect.

For details of each digital effect function, see page 69.

STILL

DIGITAL EFFECT

STILL

To cancel the digital effect function

Press DIGITAL EFFECT so that the indicator disappears.

Notes

•You cannot process a picture using the digital effect function that is input from other equipment.

•To record pictures that you have processed using the digital effect function, record the pictures on the VCR, using your camcorder as a player.

Pictures processed by the digital effect function

Pictures processed by the digital effect function are not output through the DV IN/ OUT connector.

When you set the POWER switch to OFF or stop playing back

The digital effect function will be automatically cancelled.

Page 85

— Editing —

Dubbing a tape

Using the A/V connecting cable

Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Recording quality by analog input, however, is not satisfying for professional use.

Before a dubbing

Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (Default setting is LCD.)

(1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert

the recorded tape into your camcorder.

(2) Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE. For details, refer to the operating

instructions of the VCR.

(3) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (4) Play back the recorded tape on your camcorder. (5) Start recording on the VCR. For details, refer to the operating instructions of

the VCR.

Editing

S VIDEO

AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1/CH-2

: Signal flow

(not supplied)

VIDEO IN/OUT

(not supplied)

S VIDEO VIDEO

AUDIO

After you finish dubbing the tape

Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR.

Be sure to clear the indicators from the screen

If they are displayed, press the following buttons so as not to record the indicators on the dubbed tape:

•The DATA CODE button

•The SEARCH MODE button on the Remote Commander

You can edit on VCRs that support the following systems

8 mm, Hi8, Digital8, VHS, S-VHS, VHSC, S-VHSC,

Betamax, ED Betamax, DVCAM, mini DV or DV

If your VCR is a monaural type

Connect with a VCR using the audio cable (monaural y stereo) (not supplied).

Page 86

Dubbing a tape

Connect using an S video cable (not supplied) to obtain high-quality pictures

With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (not supplied) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the VCR. This connection produces higher quality DVCAM/DV format pictures.

Note

You can edit precisely by connecting a LANC cable (not supplied) to this camcorder and other video equipment having a fine synchro-editing function, using this camcorder as a player.

Using a DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable)

Simply connect the DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable) (not supplied) to DV IN/OUT and to DV IN/OUT of the DVCAM/DV products. With a digital-to-digital connection, video and audio signals are transmitted in digital form for high-quality editing. You cannot dub the titles, display indicators or the contents of cassette memory.

(1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert

the recorded tape into your camcorder.

(2) Set the input selector on the VCR to the DV input position if the VCR is

equipped with an input selector. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the VCR.

(3) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (4) Play back the recorded tape on your camcorder.

(5) Start recording on the VCR.

DV IN/OUT

: Signal flow

When you have finished dubbing a tape

Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR.

(not supplied)

S VIDEO LANC

DV IN/OUT

Page 87

Dubbing a tape

You can connect only one VCR using the DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable) Pictures processed by the digital effect function

Pictures processed by the digital effect function are not output through the DV IN/ OUT connector.

If you record a playback pause picture with the DV IN/OUT connector

The recorded picture becomes rough. And when you play back the picture using other video equipment, the picture may jitter.

When dubbing tapes using the DSR-70P

A continuous recorded section of approximately five seconds is required before the recording start point. It is recommended to record colour bars or a similar signal beforehand at the start point of the source tape to be dubbed on the camcorder.

Editing

Page 88

Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing

You can duplicate selected scenes (programs) for editing onto a tape without operating the VCR. Scenes can be selected by frame. To use this function, a DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable) (not supplied) will be required.

[a][a]

[b]

[a]Undesired frame [b]Moves the scene

To do the digital program editing

Make sure that the external VCR to be connected is equipped with the DV IN connector. This camcorder is used as player.

Before operating the digital program editing

Preparation 1 Connecting the VCR. (below) Preparation 2 Adjusting the synchronization of the VCR (p. 89).

When you dub using the same VCR again, you can skip Preparation 2.

Using the digital program editing function

Operation 1 Making programs. (p. 91) Operation 2 Performing a digital program editing (Dubbing a tape). (p. 93)

Notes

•You cannot dub the titles, display indicators, or the contents of cassette memory.

•If you start recording from the very beginning of the tape, the first few seconds of the

tape may not record properly. Be sure to allow about 10 seconds’ lead before starting the recording.

Preparation 1: Connecting the VCR

Connect your camcorder and the VCR as shown on page 86.

Page 89

Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing

Preparation 2: Adjusting the synchronization of the VCR

You can adjust the synchronization of your camcorder and the VCR. Remove the cassette from the camcorder beforehand. We recommend that you prepare a pen and paper for notes.

(1) Insert a recordable tape into the VCR. (2) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (3) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and

release it to display the menu.

(4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (5) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EDIT SET, then press the dial. (6) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ADJ TEST, then press the dial. (7) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial.

CUT-IN and CUT-OUT are recorded on an image for five times each to calculate the numerical values for adjusting the synchronization. The EXECUTING indicator flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. When finished, the indicator changes to COMPLETE.

(8) Rewind the tape in the VCR, then start slow playback.

Take a note of the opening numerical value of each CUT-IN and the closing numerical value of each CUT-OUT.

(9) Calculate the average of all the opening numerical values of each CUT-IN,

and the average of all the closing numerical values of each CUT-OUT.

, then press the dial.

Editing

PRESET

CUSTOM

4-7

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST “CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST

[MENU] : END

“CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

[MENU] : END

RETURN EXECUTE

EXECUT I NG No

I N +215

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST “CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

[MENU] : END

. 2

COMPLETE

Page 90

Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing

(10)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select “CUT-IN,” then press the dial. (

)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the average numerical value of CUT-

IN, then press the dial. The calculated start position for recording is set.

)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select “CUT-OUT,” then press the dial.

( (

)Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the average numerical value of CUT-

OUT, then press the dial. The calculated stop position for recording is set.

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

(

10,11

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST “CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

[MENU] : END

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST “CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

[MENU] : END

12,13

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST “CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

[MENU] : END

Errors in editing

If you connect your camcorder to Sony equipment with the DV jack, the range of errors is within +/– 5 frames. The range may become wider in the following conditions:

•The interval between CUT-IN and CUT-OUT is less than five seconds (p. 92).

•CUT-IN or CUT-OUT is set at the beginning of the tape.

OTHERS

ED I T SET ADJ TEST “CUT–I N” “CUT–OUT” RETURN

[MENU] : END

Page 91

Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing

Operation 1: Making Programs

(1) Insert the tape for playback into your camcorder, and insert a tape for

recording into the VCR.

(2) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select

, then press the dial.

(4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select VIDEO EDIT, then press the dial. (5) Search for the beginning of the first scene you want to insert using the video

control buttons, then pause playback (p. 33).

STOP

REW PLAY FF PAUSE

SLOW

3,4

Editing

PRESET

CUSTOM

OTHERS

BEEP COMMANDER D I SPLAY V I DEO ED I T ED I T SET HRS METER RETURN

[MENU] : END

MELODY

V I DE O ED I T

MARK UNDO ERASE ALL START

SCENE 0

[MENU] : END

1I N

00:32:30:14

Page 92

Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing

(6) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, or MARK on the Remote Commander.

The CUT-IN point of the first program is set, and the top part of the program mark changes to light blue.

(7) Search for the end of the first scene you want to insert using the video control

buttons, then pause playback (p. 33).

(8) Press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, or MARK on the Remote Commander.

The CUT-OUT point of the first program is set, then the bottom part of the program mark changes to light blue.

(9) Repeat steps 5 to 8, then set PROGRAM.

When the program is set, the program mark changes to light blue. You can set a maximum of 20 programs.

STOP

REW PLAY FF PAUSE

SLOW

V I DE O ED I T

SCENE 0

[MENU] : END

8,9

V I DE O ED I T

MARK UNDO ERASE ALL START

SCENE 1

[MENU] : END

2I N

00:09:07:06

On a blank portion of the tape

You cannot set CUT-IN or CUT-OUT on a blank portion of the tape.

Erasing the last program

To change the end of the last program, delete the CUT-OUT mark. To erase the whole program, delete both the CUT-IN and CUT-OUT marks.

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

The last set program mark flashes, then the setting is cancelled.

V I DE O ED I T

SCENE 3

MARK UNDO ERASE ALL START

[

MENU] : END

1 OUT

4I N

00:08:55:06

00:10:01:23

To cancel erasing

Select RETURN in step 2, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

Page 93

Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing

Erasing all programs

(1) Select VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to

select ERASE ALL, then press the dial.

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

All the program marks flash, then the settings are cancelled.

To cancel erasing all programs

Select RETURN in step 2, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.

To cancel a program you have set

Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release it. The program is stored in memory until the tape is ejected.

Operation 2: Performing a digital program editing (Dubbing a tape)

(1) Select VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to

select START, then press the dial.

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

Search for the beginning of the first program, then start dubbing. The EXECUTING indicator flashes. The SEARCH indicator appears during search, and the EDIT indicator appears during editing on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. The PROGRAM indicator lights up after dubbing is complete. When the dubbing ends, your camcorder and the VCR automatically stop.

To stop dubbing

Press x on this camcorder or on the Remote Commander.

To end the digital program editing function

Your camcorder stops when the dubbing is complete. Then the display returns to VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings. Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release it to end the video program editing function.

You cannot record on the VCR when:

• The cassette is not inserted.

• The tape has run out.

• The write-protect tab is set to the protect position.

NOT READY appears on the LCD screen when:

• The program to operate the digital program editing has not been made.

• A DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable) is not connected.

• The power of the connected VCR is not turned on.

Editing

Page 94

Using with an analog video unit and a PC – Signal convert function

You can convert the analog input signal to the digital signal and output it from the DV IN/OUT connector on this camcorder. You can capture images and sound from an analog video unit connecting a PC which has the i.LINK connector to your camcorder.

S VIDEO

(not supplied)

DV IN/OUT

(not supplied)

DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable) (not supplied)

: Signal flow

(1) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (2) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to display the menu.

(3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select A/V t DV OUT, then press the dial. (5) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (6) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

(7) Start playback on the analog video unit slightly ahead of the point from which

you want to start capturing images.

(8) Start capturing procedures on your PC. The operation procedures depend on

your PC and the software which you use. For details on how to capture images, refer to the instruction manual of your PC and your software.

, then press the dial.

OUT

S VIDEO VIDEO

AUDIO

After capturing images and sound

Stop capturing procedures on your PC, and stop the playback on the analog video unit.

Page 95

Using with an analog video unit and a PC – Signal convert function

Notes

•When you edit the captured image and sound from the analog video unit by a PC, you need to install an appropriate software which can exchange video signals between the camcorder and a PC.

•Depending on the condition of the analog video signals, the PC may not be able to output the images correctly when you convert analog video signals into digital video signals via your camcorder. Depending on the analog video unit, the image may contain noise or incorrect colours.

•The camcorder cannot output the digital signal when you input the analog signal that includes a copyright protection signal.

Editing

Page 96

Recording video or TV programs

Using the A/V connecting cable

You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV program from a TV that has video/ audio outputs. Use your camcorder as a recorder.

(1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into your camcorder. If

you want to record a tape from the VCR, insert a recorded tape into the VCR.

(2) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR on your camcorder. (3) Set DISPLAY in

switch located on the front of the viewfinder to OFF.

(4) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

(5) Press z REC and the button on its right simultaneously on your camcorder,

then immediately press X on your camcorder.

(6) Press N on the VCR to start playback if you record a tape from a VCR. Select

a TV program if you record from a TV. The picture from a TV or VCR appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(7) Press X on your camcorder at the scene from which you want to start

recording.

to LCD in the menu settings (p. 120) or set the DISPLAY

PAUSE

: Signal flow

AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1/CH-2

S VIDEO

(not supplied)

VIDEO IN/OUT

(not supplied)

REC

OUT

S VIDEO VIDEO

AUDIO

When you have finished recording

Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR.

Using the Remote Commander

In step 5, press z REC and MARK simultaneously, then immediately press X. And in step 7, press X at the scene from which you want to start recording.

Page 97

Recording video or TV programs

If your VCR is a monaural type

Connect with a VCR using the audio cable (monaural y stereo) (not supplied).

Connect using an S video cable (not supplied) to obtain high-quality pictures

If you do various playbacks on the VCR during recording

The recorded picture may be blurred.

On the commander mode

Your camcorder works in the commander mode, VTR 2. Commander modes 1, 2 and 3 are used to distinguish your camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in the commander mode VTR 2, we recommend changing the commander mode or covering the sensor of the VCR with black paper.

On index signal

The index is automatically marked on a tape when you start recording. If you mark the index using the INDEX MARK button during recording, “LINE” appears in the CH column on the INDEX SEARCH screen, and the index is recorded on cassette memory.

Editing

Page 98

Recording video or TV programs

Using a DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable)

(1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into your camcorder,

and insert the recorded tape into the VCR.

(2) Set the MEMORY/CAMERA/VTR selector to VTR. (3) Set DISPLAY in (4) Push the CUSTOM PRESET/MENU switch in the MENU direction and release

it to erase the menu display.

(5) Press z REC and the button on its right simultaneously on your camcorder,

then immediately press X on your camcorder.

(6) Press N on the VCR to start playback. The picture to be recorded appears on

the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

(7) Press X on your camcorder at the scene from which you want to start

recording.

to LCD in the menu settings (p. 120).

REC

DV IN/OUT

: Signal flow

PAUSE

(not supplied)

S VIDEO LANC

DV IN/OUT

When you have finished recording

Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR.

Using the Remote Commander

In step 5, press z REC and MARK simultaneously, then immediately press X. And in step 7, press X at the scene from which you want to start recording.

Page 99

Recording video or TV programs

You can connect only one VCR using the DV connecting cable (i.LINK cable)

When you dub a picture in digital form

The colour of the display may be uneven. However this does not affect the dubbed picture.

If you record a still picture in playback pause mode via the DV IN/OUT connector

The recorded picture becomes rough. And when you play back the picture using your camcorder, the picture may jitter.

Before recording

Set the DISPLAY switch located on the front of the viewfinder to ON and make sure that the DV IN indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. The DV IN indicator may appear on both pieces of equipment.

On the commander mode

Editing

Page 100

Audio dubbing

You can record an audio sound to add to the original sound on a tape by connecting audio equipment or a microphone. If you connect audio equipment, you can add sound to your recorded tape by specifying the starting and ending points. The original sound will not be erased. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation.

The relationship between audio input and channels on which a dubbed sound will be recorded

The relationship between audio input and channels on which a dubbed sound will be recorded is as follows:

Audio input through

AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1/ CH-2

AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1

AUDIO IN/OUT CH-2

AUDIO IN CH1/CH2

AUDIO IN CH1

AUDIO IN CH2

MIC IN +48V

The position of the AUDIO INPUT switch (CH-1/CH-2)

–

FRONT/FRONT FRONT/REAR REAR/FRONT REAR/REAR FRONT/FRONT FRONT/REAR REAR/FRONT REAR/REAR FRONT/FRONT FRONT/REAR REAR/FRONT REAR/REAR FRONT/FRONT FRONT/REAR REAR/FRONT REAR/REAR

Which audio input will be recorded on

Channel 3 Channel 4

AUDIO IN/OUT AUDIO IN/OUT CH-1 CH-2

AUDIO IN/OUT – CH-1

– AUDIO IN/OUT

CH-2

–– – AUDIO IN CH2

AUDIO IN CH1 – AUDIO IN CH1 AUDIO IN CH2

–– ––

AUDIO IN CH1 – AUDIO IN CH1 –

–– – AUDIO IN CH2 –– – AUDIO IN CH2

MIC IN +48V MIC IN +48V MIC IN +48V –

– MIC IN +48V ––

100

Sony DSR250P User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual