SONY DSR-PD150 User Manual
DSR-PD150
3-060-817-13 (1)
Digital
Camcorder
Operating Instructions
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the
serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers
whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.
Model No. DSR-PD150 Model No. AC-
Serial No. Serial No.
DSR-PD150
©2000 Sony Corporation
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.
This symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous voltage”
within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of
electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of
important operating and
maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
Never expose the battery pack to temperatures
above 140 °F (60 °C) such as in a car parked in
the sun or under direct sunlight.
For customers in the U.S.A. and
CANADA
DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY.
LITHIUM ION BATTERY.
DISPOSE OF PROPERLY.
You can return your unwanted lithium ion batteries
to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory
Service Center.
Note: In some areas the disposal of lithium ion
batteries in household or business trash may
be prohibited.
For the Sony Service Center nearest you call
1-800-222-SONY (United States only).
For the Sony Factory Service Center nearest you call
416-499-SONY (Canada only).
Caution:Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium
ion battery.
2
For the customers in the U.S.A.
If you have any questions about this product, you
may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1800-222-SONY (7669) or write to: Sony Customer
Information Center 1 Sony Drive, Mail Drop #T111, Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: DSR-PD150
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 1 Sony Drive, Park Ridge, NJ,
Telephone No.: 201-930-6972
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions.: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2)this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
07656 USA
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications
not expressly approved in this manual could void your
authority to operate this equipment.
Note:
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio
or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
— Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
—
—
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.
— Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
For customers in CANADA
CAUTION
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE
BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
“Memory Stick”
For customers in the U.S.A.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
For customers in CANADA
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.
Table of contents
Quick Start Guide ............................................... 4
Getting started
Using this manual............................................... 6
Checking supplied accessories ......................... 8
Step 1 Installing the microphone ..................... 9
Step 2 Preparing the power supply .............. 10
Step 3 Inserting a cassette ............................... 15
Recording – Basics
Recording a picture .......................................... 16
Shooting backlit subjects (BACK
LIGHT) .......................................... 23
Spot light .............................................. 24
Checking the recording – END SEARCH /
EDITSEARCH / Rec Review ....................... 25
Playback – Basics
Playing back a tape ...........................................26
Viewing the recording on TV ......................... 31
Advanced Recording Operations
Recording a still image on a tape
– Tape Photo recording ................................. 32
Shooting with all the pixels
– PROG. SCAN............................................... 34
Using the guide frame ..................................... 35
Using the wide mode ....................................... 36
Using the fader function .................................. 37
Using special effects – Digital effect .............. 39
Shooting with manual adjustment ................. 42
Adjusting the white balance ........................... 50
Adjusting the recording level manually
– Sound recording level ................................ 52
Connecting an optional external
microphone ..................................................... 54
Presetting the adjustment for picture quality
– Custom preset ............................................. 56
Focusing manually ........................................... 58
Interval recording ............................................. 59
Frame by frame recording – Cut recording .. 61
Superimposing the date and time on a
picture .............................................................. 62
Marking an Index ............................................. 63
Advanced Playback Operations
Searching for a recording by index – Index
search ............................................................... 64
Searching the boundaries of recorded tape
by title – Title search ...................................... 66
Searching a recording by date
– Date search................................................... 67
Searching for a photo
– Photo search/Photo scan ........................... 69
Playing back a tape with digital effects ......... 71
Editing
Dubbing a tape .................................................. 72
Dubbing only desired scenes
– Digital program editing ............................. 74
Using with an analog video unit and a PC
– Signal convert function .............................. 80
Recording video or TV programs .................. 81
Audio dubbing .................................................. 85
Setting time values ........................................... 89
Superimposing a title ....................................... 94
Making your own titles.................................... 98
Labeling a cassette .......................................... 100
Erasing the cassette memory data ................102
Customizing Your Camcorder
Changing the menu settings ......................... 104
Resetting the date and time ........................... 112
“Memory Stick” Operations
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction...... 113
Recording still images on a “Memory Stick”
– Memory Photo recording ........................ 118
Superimposing a still image in a “Memory
Stick” on a moving picture
– MEMORY MIX .......................................... 121
Recording an image from a tape as a still
image ............................................................. 124
Copying still images from a tape
– Photo save .................................................. 127
Viewing a still picture
– Memory Photo playback.......................... 129
Copying an image recorded on a “Memory
Stick” to tapes ............................................... 132
Playing back images continuously
– SLIDE SHOW ............................................ 134
Preventing accidental erasure
– Image protection ....................................... 135
Deleting images .............................................. 136
Writing a print mark – Print mark ............... 139
Additional Information
Compatibility of DVCAM and DV
formats........................................................... 140
Usable cassettes ............................................... 142
About i.LINK ................................................... 144
Troubleshooting .............................................. 145
Self-diagnosis display .................................... 151
Warning indicators and messages ............... 152
Using your camcorder abroad ...................... 154
Maintenance information and precautions. 155
Specifications ................................................... 160
Quick Reference
Identifying the parts and controls ................ 161
Quick Function Guide.................................... 170
Index ................................................................. 171
3
Quick Start Guide
PUSH
This guide introduces you to the basic way of recording/playback. See the pages in parentheses
“( )” for more information.
Installing the microphone (p. 9)
Install the supplied microphone with the model name (ECM-NV1) facing upward. Be sure
to connect the microphone plug to the INPUT1 connector.
to INPUT1
Connecting the power cord (p. 14)
Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 10).
Connect the plug with its v mark
Quick Start Guide
facing toward the LCD panel side.
AC power adaptor (supplied)
Inserting a cassette (p. 15)
1 While pressing
the small blue
button on the
EJECT switch,
slide it in the direction
of the arrow.
2
Push the middle
portion of the back of
the cassette to insert it.
Insert the cassette into
the cassette
compartment with the
window facing out
and the write-protect
tab facing upward.
Window
Open the DC IN jack
cover.
3 Close the cassette
compartment by
pressing the PUSH
mark on it.
4 Close the cassette lid
by pressing the
PUSH button on the
cassette lid.
4
Write-protect tab
Recording a picture (p. 16)
Viewfinder
When the LCD panel
is closed, use the
viewfinder placing
your eye against its
eyecup.
4 Press START/
STOP. Your
camcorder
starts
recording. To
stop recording,
press START/
STOP again.
POWER
VCR
(CHG)
OFF
CAMERA
MEMORY
3 Slide OPEN
Monitoring the playback picture on the LCD
screen (p. 26)
1 Set the POWER switch to
VCR while pressing the
small green button.
back in the B
mark direction
to open the
LCD panel.
POWER
VCR
(CHG)
OFF
CAMERA
MEMORY
OPEN
1 Remove the hood cap.
2 Set the POWER switch to
CAMERA while pressing the
small green button.
POWER
VCR
(CHG)
OFF
CAMERA
MEMORY
If the ND1 or ND2 indicator
flashes, see page 46.
Quick Start Guide
2 Press m to rewind
the tape.
3 Press N to start
playback.
NOTE
Do not pick up your camcorder by
holding the viewfinder, the LCD panel,
the battery pack, or the microphone.
REW
PLAY
5
— 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 CAMERA.
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. 25, 29)
•Searching a recording by index – index search (p. 64)
•Searching a recording by date – date search (p. 67)
•Searching for a photo – photo search (p. 69).
The functions you can operate only with cassette memory are:
•Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title – title search (p. 66)
•Superimposing a title (p. 94)
•Making your own titles (p. 98)
•Labeling a cassette (p. 100).
For details, see page 142.
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).
6
Using this manual
Note on TV color systems
TV color systems differ from country to country.
To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.
Copyright precautions
Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted.
Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the
copyright laws.
Precautions on camcorder care
•The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using high-precision
technology. 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 points occur normally in the manufacturing process and do not
affect the recorded picture in any way. Effective ratio of pixels is 99.99% or
more.
•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].
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.
7
Checking supplied accessories
Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.
12 3
4
78
qa
1 Wireless Remote Commander (1)
(p. 167)
2 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power
adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 11)
3 NP-F330 battery pack (1) (p. 10, 11)
4 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote
Commander (2) (p. 168)
5 Memory Stick Reader/Writer (1), USB
cable (1), Driver software (CD-ROM)
(1)
6 “Memory Stick” (1) (p. 113)
56
qs
9
qd
7 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 31, 72)
8 Hood cap (1) (p. 16)
9 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 165)
0 Application software: PictureGear
4.1Lite (CD-ROM) (1) (p. 131)
qa Lens hood (1) (p. 163)
qs Eyecup (large) (1) (p. 20)
qd Microphone (1) (p. 9), Wind screen (1)
(p. 9)
qf Operating instructions (2)
0
8
Step 1 Installing the microphone
Install the supplied microphone. Be sure to connect the microphone plug to the INPUT1
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 INPUT 1 connector.
(5) Set the INPUT LEVEL selector to MIC or MIC ATT. When set to MIC ATT, you
can reduce the volume by about 20 dB. And set the +48 V switch to ON.
(6) Select the channel to be used, using the REC CH SELECT switch. When
recording only on the channel 1, set it to CH1, and when recording both on the
channels 1 and 2, set it to CH1•CH2.
Getting started
1
4
2
3
56
REC CH
REC CH
INPUT
REC CH
INPUT
SELECT
LEVEL
SELECT
LEVEL
CH1•CH2
LINE
MIC
CH1
MIC
ATT
INPUT1 INPUT2
INPUT
+48V
+48V
ON
OFF
+48V
LEVEL
LINE
ON
MIC
OFF
MIC
ATT
INPUT2
REC CH
SELECT
SELECT
CH1•CH2
LINE
MIC
CH1
MIC
ATT
INPUT1 INPUT2
When the wind is blowing hard
Set CH1 or CH2 of WIND to ON in the menu settings according to the input (p. 104).
When you unplug the microphone plug
Unplug it while holding the PUSH button down.
INPUT
INPUT
LEVEL
LEVEL
INPUT
+48V
+48V
ON
OFF
+48V
LEVEL
LINE
ON
MIC
OFF
MIC
ATT
INPUT2
9
Step 2 Preparing the power supply
Installing the battery pack
Install the battery pack to use your camcorder outdoors.
(1) Lift up the viewfinder.
(2) Insert the battery pack in the direction of the V mark on the battery pack. Slide
the battery pack until it is locked.
1
To remove the battery pack
Lift up the viewfinder.
Slide the battery pack out in the direction of the arrow while pressing BATT RELEASE
down.
2
BATT
RELEASE
10
Step 2 Preparing the power supply
Charging the battery pack
Use the battery pack after charging it.
Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series).
(1) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with
your camcorder to the DC IN jack with the plug’s v mark facing toward the
LCD panel side.
(2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor.
(3) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.
(4) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Charging begins.
The remaining battery time is indicated in minutes on the display window.
When the remaining battery indicator changes to u, normal charge is completed. To
fully charge the battery (full charge), leave the battery pack attached for about one hour
after normal charge is completed until FULL appears on the display window. Fully
charging the battery allows you to use the battery longer than usual.
1
4
(CHG)
OFF
POWER
VCR
CAMERA
MEMORY
Getting started
After charging the battery pack
Disconnect the AC power adaptor from the DC IN jack on your camcorder.
Note on the remaining battery time indicator
The remaining battery time indicator on the LCD screen/display window or in the
viewfinder indicates the recording time using the viewfinder. The indicator may not be
correct, depending on the conditions in which you are recording. When you close the
LCD panel and open it again, it takes about one minute for the correct remaining
battery time to be displayed.
11
Step 2 Preparing the power supply
Notes
•
Prevent metallic objects from coming into contact with the metal parts of the DC plug of
the AC power adaptor. This may cause a short-circuit, damaging the AC power adaptor.
•Keep the battery pack dry.
•
When the battery pack is not to be used for a long time, charge the battery pack once
fully, and then use it until it fully discharges again. Keep the battery pack in a cool place.
Until your camcorder calculates the actual remaining battery time
“- - - - min” appears in the display window.
While charging the battery pack, no indicator appears or the indicator flashes in
the display window in the following cases:
– The battery pack is not installed correctly.
– The AC power adaptor is disconnected.
– Something is wrong with the battery pack.
Charging time
Battery pack Full charge (Normal charge)
NP-F330 (supplied) 150 (90)
NP-F530/F550 210 (150)
NP-F730/F730H/F750 300 (240)
NP-F930/F950 390 (330)
NP-F960 420 (360)
Approximate minutes to charge an empty battery pack
Recording time
Battery pack the viewfinder the LCD screen
NP-F330 (supplied) 60 (55) 30 (30) 50 (45) 25 (25)
NP-F530 100 (90) 55 (50) 85 (75) 45 (40)
NP-F550 130 (115) 70 (60) 110 (100) 60 (55)
NP-F730 230 (205) 125 (110) 190 (170) 105 (95)
NP-F730H/F750 265 (235) 145 (130) 230 (200) 125 (110)
NP-F930 355 (320) 195 (175) 300 (270) 165 (150)
NP-F950 405 (360) 225 (200) 345 (310) 190 (170)
NP-F960 480 (430) 265 (240) 420 (375) 235 (210)
Recording with Recording with
Continuous* Typical** Continuous* Typical**
12
Approximate minutes of recording time when you use a fully charged battery
Step 2 Preparing the power supply
Numbers in parentheses “( )” indicate the time using a normally charged battery.
You cannot use the NP-500/510/710 battery pack on your camcorder.
* Approximate continuous recording time at 25 °C (77 °F). The battery life will be
shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment.
** Approximate minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/stop,
zooming and turning the power on/off. The actual battery life may be shorter.
Playing time
Battery pack Playing time Playing time
on LCD screen with LCD closed
NP-F330 (supplied) 75 (65) 85 (75)
NP-F530 120 (110) 145 (130)
NP-F550 150 (135) 180 (160)
NP-F730 265 (240) 295 (265)
NP-F730H/F750 315 (275) 365 (325)
NP-F930 410 (365) 460 (415)
NP-F950 475 (430) 550 (495)
NP-F960 575 (515) 660 (590)
Approximate minutes of playing time when you use a fully charged battery
Numbers in parentheses “( )” indicate the time using a normally charged battery.
The battery life will be shorter if you use your camcorder in a cold environment.
You cannot use the NP-500/510/710 battery pack on your camcorder.
Getting started
Notes
•The supplied battery pack is charged a little.
•Some types of battery packs may not be sold in your region or country.
What is ”InfoLITHIUM?”
The “InfoLITHIUM” is a lithium ion battery pack which can exchange data such as
battery consumption with compatible video equipment. This unit is compatible with the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series). Your camcorder operates only with the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery. “InfoLITHIUM” battery packs (L series) have the
mark.
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
If the camcorder is immediately turned off
Even if the remaining battery time is enough to operate, charge the battery pack fully
again. The correct remaining time is displayed.
13
Step 2 Preparing the power supply
Connecting to a wall outlet
When you use your camcorder for a long time, we recommend that you power it from a
wall outlet using the AC power adaptor.
(1) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor to the DC IN
jack on your camcorder with the plug’s v mark facing toward the LCD panel
side.
(2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor.
(3) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.
1 2,3
14
Precaution
The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (house current) as long as it is
connected to the wall outlet, even if the set itself has been turned off.
Notes
•The power cord must only be changed at an authorized service shop.
•AC power adaptor can supply power even if the battery pack is attached to your
camcorder.
•The DC IN jack has source priority. This means that the battery pack cannot supply
any power if the power cord is connected to the DC IN jack, even when the power
cord is not plugged into a wall outlet.
Using a car battery
Use the Sony DC Adaptor/Charger (not supplied).
Step 3 Inserting a cassette
(1) Install the power source (p. 10).
(2) While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it in the
direction of the arrow. After the cassette lid is opened, the cassette
compartment automatically opens.
(3) Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert it.
Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply into the cassette compartment with
the window facing out and the write-protect tab facing upward.
(4) Close the cassette compartment by pressing the PUSH mark on it.
(5) Close the cassette lid until it clicks by pressing the PUSH button on the lid.
Getting started
2
3,4
Write-protect tab
Window
PUSH
5
To eject a cassette
Follow the procedure above, and take out the cassette in step 3.
Note
The cassette lid will not be closed when you press any part of the lid other than the
PUSH button.
When you use cassettes with cassette memory
Read the instruction about cassette memory to use this function properly (p. 142).
To prevent accidental erasure
Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to the protect position.
PUSH
If the grip strap prevents the cassette lid from opening fully
Adjust the length of the grip strap (p. 165).
If flashes even if the cassette has been inserted
Press the PUSH button again to close the cover firmly.
15
— 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. 10 to 15).
(3) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the small green button.
Your camcorder is set to the standby mode.
(4) Slide OPEN in the direction of the B mark to open the LCD panel.
The picture now being shot is displayed on the LCD screen, and it disappears
from the viewfinder screen.
(5) Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. The “REC” indicator
appears. The camera recording lamps located on the front and rear of your
camcorder light up. To stop recording, press START/STOP again.
You can use REC START/STOP located on the front instead of START/STOP
on the rear.
Camera recording lamps
4
OPEN
2
POWER
VCR
5
(CHG)
OFF
CAMERA
MEMORY
If the ND1 or ND2 indicator flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder
The ND filter is necessary. Set the ND FILTER selector to 1 or 2. However, if you change
the position during recording, the brightness of the picture may change or audio noise
may occur. This is not a malfunction. We recommend that you check the position of the
ND FILTER selector before shooting. See “Using the ND filter” on page 46.
Microphone
REC 00:00:00:01
40min
REC START/STOP
DVCAM
32K
1
3
VCR
(CHG)
OFF
CAMERA
LOCK
POWER
MEMORY
16
Note
Fasten the grip strap firmly.
Recording a picture
Note on the recording format
Your camcorder records and plays back both in the DVCAM format and in the DV
format SP mode. Select the format in the menu settings.
Note on the LOCK switch
When you slide the LOCK switch to the left, the POWER switch can no longer be set to
MEMORY accidentally. The LOCK switch is set to the right as a default setting. We
recommend that you set the LOCK switch to the left when you record on a cassette.
Recording
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.
104). The picture quality may improve in this mode, but if you shoot a moving subject,
the image may shake 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. 25).
However, check the following:
•When you change the battery pack, set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
•Do not mix recordings in the DVCAM format and the DV format on one tape.
The playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly
between scenes when you change the recording format.
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. This is not a malfunction.
Usable cassettes
You can record both on mini DVCAM cassettes and on mini DV cassettes using your
camcorder. When you use a mini 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. When you
want to record in the DV format or to make longer recording, use the mini DV cassette.
– Basics
Notes
•If you record in the DV format, the transition of a tape may not be smooth. We
recommend that you use mini DVCAM cassettes and set REC MODE to DVCAM in
the menu settings to obtain reliable clear pictures.
•You cannot record on a tape in LP mode in the DV format.
If you use a mini 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 recorded in LP mode in the DV format.
17
Recording a picture
Adjusting the LCD screen
The LCD panel is opened up to 90 degrees and it rotates about 90 degrees to the
viewfinder side and about 180 degrees to the lens side.
If you turn the LCD panel over so that it faces the other way in standby or recording
mode, the indicator appears on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder (Mirror
mode).
180°
180°
90°
OPEN
To close the LCD panel, set it vertically and swing it into the camcorder body until it
clicks.
Note
When opening the LCD panel, the viewfinder is automatically turned off, however, it is
not turned off when the LCD panel is turned over or the camcorder is in mirror mode.
18
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 a little 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 zX 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.
Recording a picture
Adjusting the brightness of the LCD screen
To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen, press LCD BRIGHT + or –.
The battery life is longer when the LCD panel is closed. Use the viewfinder instead of
the LCD screen to save the battery power.
To brighten
Recording
– Basics
LCD BRIGHT
To darken
On the LCD screen backlight
You can change the brightness of the backlight. Select LCD B.L. in the menu settings
(p. 104).
Even if you do the LCD screen adjustment using the LCD BRIGHT +/– buttons, or
using LCD B.L. and LCD COLOR items in the menu settings
The recorded picture will not be affected.
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. In this case, it is useful to use the REC START/STOP button located on the
front or the camcorder.
REC
START/
STOP
19
Recording a picture
After recording
(1) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
(2) Close the LCD panel.
(3) Eject the cassette.
(4) Remove the battery pack.
Adjusting the viewfinder
If you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder.
Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder
come into sharp focus.
Lift up the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever.
20
To adjust the brightness of the viewfinder screen, use the VF B.L. item in the menu
settings (p. 104).
Even if you adjust the viewfinder screen backlight
The recorded picture will not be affected.
When the shooting conditions are too bright
Use the supplied large eyecup. Fit it onto the camcorder by stretching the corners a
little. You can attach it with the large part of it located on both left and right.
2
1
3
4
Recording a picture
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)
Recording
– Basics
W
T
W
T
T
W
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.
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.
21
Recording a picture
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. 104). If
you use the digital zoom function, the picture quality deteriorates.
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. 104).
– When the POWER switch is set to MEMORY.
Indicators displayed during recording
The indicators are not recorded on the tapes.
[a] [b] [c]
min
REC
DVCAM
ND
1
12:05:56PM
[j] [i]
45min
40
JUL 4 2000
[k]
00:00:00:01
[a]Remaining battery time indicator
This appears after you turn on the power and wait for a while.
[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.
When you have selected it, the ND filter mode displayed on the LCD screen or in the
viewfinder will disappear.
[k]Date indicator
32K
[d]
[e]
[f]
[g]
[h]
W
T
22
Recording a picture
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. 89). You can select the drop
frame or non-drop frame system using the menu.
On user bits display
You can display the user bits, pressing TC/U-BIT (p. 93).
Recording
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.
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.
FADER
BACK LIGHT SPOT LIGHT
BACK LIGHT
– Basics
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 more than two of the following functions: iris, gain,
and shutter speed
You cannot use the backlight function.
23
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.
You cannot use the spotlight mode while in the following settings:
– Old movie
– Shutter speed value of 1/30 or smaller
– When you manually adjust more than two of the following functions: iris, gain, and
shutter speed
FADER
BACK LIGHT SPOT LIGHT
SPOT LIGHT
24
Checking the recording
– END SEARCH / EDITSEARCH / Rec Review
You can use these buttons to check recorded pictures or shoot so that the transition
between the last recorded scene and the next scene you record is smooth.
END SEARCH
EDITSEARCH
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.
Recording
– Basics
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.
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 have recorded 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. 142).
25
— Playback – Basics —
Playing back a tape
You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen. If you close the LCD panel,
you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can also control playback
using the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder.
(1) Install the power source and insert the recorded tape.
(2) Set the POWER switch to VCR while pressing the small green button. The
video control buttons light up.
(3) Slide OPEN in the direction of the B mark to open the LCD panel.
(4) Press m to rewind the tape.
(5) Press N to start playback.
(6) To adjust the volume, press either of the VOLUME +/– buttons .
6
VOLUME
To stop playback
Press x.
4
3
1
5
2
(CHG)
OFF
POWER
VCR
CAMERA
MEMORY
PLAYREW
26
Loading...