Sony DSR-PD170P User Manual

3CCD Digital CamcorderNTSC/PAL

DSR-PD170
DSR-PD170P

For

Professional

Results

02

DVCAM FEATURES

Camera Features

The Professional Picture Quality You Demand

3CCD Camera System

The DSR-PD170 incorporates three 1/3-inch type CCDs, each with

380,000 pixels, and the DSR-PD170P incorporates three 1/3-inch type

CCDs, each with 450,000 pixels. The 1/3-inch size CCDs contribute

to the high sensitivity and high signal-to-noise ratio. These CCDs are

capable of interlace scan to acquire moving images and progressive*

scan to capture still images.

*2 Moving images cannot be acquired in the progressive scan mode.

Advanced HAD™Technology

Advanced HAD technology reduces fixed pattern noise and vertical

smear, thus allowing the camera to achieve a high sensitivity and

excellent signal to noise ratio.

Low Light Shooting

The minimum illumination has been improved from 2lx for the

DSR-PD150/PD150P to 1lx thanks to the use of an enhanced noise-

reduction process.

Optical 12x Zoom Lens

The optical 12x zoom lens*3allows the DSR-PD170 to maintain picture

quality even at high zoom ratios.

*3 Digital zoom of 24x or 48x can also be achieved by the proper menu selection.

Recorder Features

Optical Super SteadyShot™System

The DSR-PD170 employs the Super SteadyShot system, in which

horizontal and vertical movements are detected independently by the

sensors. The prism system located behind the lens adjusts and

optically compensates for unsteady camera handling, while maintaining

2

image quality.

Large 180,000-dot LCD Precision Black & White
Viewfinder

The 0.44-inch*4type black and white LCD viewfinder provides 500 lines

of horizontal resolution. In addition, a large-sized eyecup is used, and

the window size of the magnifier has also been enlarged. This allows

easier focusing and more comfortable use of the viewfinder.

*4 Viewable area, measured diagonally

16:9 Widescreen Acquisition Mode

The DSR-PD170 is capable of widescreen 16:9 acquisition image

capturing (video only), producing true 16:9 images. This is different

from the letterboxing view commonly used in many equivalent models.

High-Quality Digital Recording for Professionals

DVCAM/DV Selectable Recording

The DSR-PD170 adopts the DVCAM format, which uses 8-bit digital

component recording with a 5:1 compression ratio and a sampling rate

of 4:1:1 (for 525/60) or 4:2:0 (for 625/50). The unique compression

algorithm provides excellent picture quality and superb multi-

generation dubbing performance. An audio lock mode synchronizes

the audio to the video for professional editing results. Should a longer

record time be required, the DSR-PD170 is also capable of recording

and playing back DV format signals (SP mode only)*5.

*5 The transition from cut to cut

may not be smooth between
scenes where the recording
format is changed from DV to
DVCAM, or vice versa. This
is a normal and expected
phenomenon.
Audio Dub mode is NOT
possible when recorded in
DV (SP) format.

2 Ch. XLR Audio Input and
Supplied Directional Microphone

The DSR-PD170 provides two XLR audio input connectors

for connecting professional microphones or for feeding an

external audio source. The input level can be selected from Mic/Line/

Mic Attenuator positions. 48 V microphone power can be supplied.

INPUT 1 audio can be recorded on CH1 only, or both CH1 and CH2 audio

tracks (selected by switch). One directional microphone is supplied.

16-bit/12-bit PCM Digital Sound and
Audio Dub Capability

The DSR-PD170 records two channels of audio with the 48 kHz/16-bit

or 32 kHz/12-bit mode. On a pre-recorded tape with two channels

recorded in the 32 kHz/12-bit mode, it can dub an additional two

channels through the external microphone input (XLR connectors or

RCA pin jacks, DVCAM recorded tape only).

Additional Recorder Features

■ 16:9 recording mode

■ Interval recording function

03

DVCAM FEATURES

Operational Features

Advanced Features for Professional Results

Newly Developed Hybrid LCD Monitor with a High
Resolution of more than 210,000 Pixels

The DSR-PD170 has a high-resolution color LCD monitor for viewing

the recorded picture, or checking the playback picture on location.

With its large screen, it is also helpful in setting menus or the audio

recording level, as well as monitoring the camera and audio status

while mounted on a tripod. The hybrid LCD monitor combines the

characteristics of both transmissive and reflective LCD panels. The

transmissive LCD panel is suited for dark conditions such as in the

studio, while the reflective LCD panel provides clear viewing in bright

conditions such as under strong sunlight.

On-handle Zoom Lever and
Rec. Start/Stop Button

In order to facilitate zoom control and recording

operation during low-angle shooting, an

additional zoom lever and a rec. start/stop

button have been added to the carrying

handle. Zoom speed can be selected

from H (faster), L (slower) or OFF via the

three-position slide switch located on

the side of the handle.

Long Operating Time

Combined with the optional NP-F970 InfoLITHIUM™Rechargeable

Battery Pack, the DSR-PD170 can continuously operate in record

mode for up to ten hours. By attaching the battery and connecting the

camcorder to the supplied AD-L15 AC Adaptor, the camcorder will start

charging the battery.

Battery Life

Continuous With
Recording Time*

NP-F570 (supplied) 195 min. 165 min. 155 min.
NP-F750 (optional) 265 min. 230 min. 215 min.
NP-F770 (optional) 400 min. 345 min. 325 min.
NP-F960 (optional) 480 min. 420 min. 395 min.
NP-F970 (optional) 600 min. 515 min. 485 min.

*6 Continuous recording time, indoors at 25°C.

6

LCD viewfinder on and LCD monitor on

With LCD monitor on

With LCD viewfinder

Comparison of images displayed on the LCD monitors of the DSR-PD150 on the left and
DSR-PD170 on the right

Simultaneous Operation
of LCD Monitor and
Viewfinder

The LCD monitor and

viewfinder can be used

simultaneously. This allows

an operator to perform focus

adjustments on the subject

with the black and white LCD

viewfinder, while adjusting the

color balance with the LCD

monitor.

Large-sized Handle

The top height of the handle is about 10 mm higher than that of the

DSR-PD150/PD150P. The handle design has also been enhanced for

a better and easier grip.

Manual Functions

In order to provide the flexibility required in professional applications, the

DSR-PD170 allows a variety of its functions to be manually adjusted.

• Zoom

• Focus

• Iris (with smoother and more

sensitive iris control)

• Shutter speed

• Gain

•AE(Auto Exposure) Shift

• White Balance

• Custom Preset (Color Level,

Sharpness, White Balance Shift,
AGC Limit)

• ND Filters (1/4 and 1/32)

• Spotlight Button

• Backlight Button

• Digital Effects (Still, Flash Motion,

Luminance Key, Trail, Old Movie)

• Audio Recording Level (Separate or

Linked adjustment of CH1 and CH2)

• Zebra Patterns (100% or 70%)

• Guide Frame (Vertical and Horizontal

alignment of the subject to guide
frame)

04

DVCAM FEATURES / SPECIFICATIONS

Index Marking

When a Cassette Memory-equipped DVCAM/DV tape is used, an

Index can be marked while recording with the camera or

recording from an external video source.

This function allows quick access to the marked tape position in

subsequent operations.

Time Code Preset

The time code can be preset using any number in H/M/S/F

(hours/minutes/seconds/frames), for accurate tape-position

information. The time-code mode can be selected between

“rec-run” or “free run”. User bits can also be set.

Title Function

When using a Cassette Memory-equipped tape, titles can be set

and stored in the Cassette Memory for superimposition during

playback. This information is not burnt into the video signal, but

is overlaid only during the playback.

Fader

The DSR-PD170 provides five fading modes: Black Fade

(IN/OUT), Monotone Fade (fade from Black & White to color),

Overlap (last image becomes a still image and overlaps into the

new scene), Wipe and Dot.

Digital Still Camera Functions with

Memory Stick

The Memory Photo function allows the camera to be switched to

progressive scan mode for capturing still images. VGA-sized files

are recorded on the Memory Stick media. The Memory Mix

function can combine the still images stored on

Memory Stick media with camera video images.

™

Media

Supplied Lens Hood with Built-in Lens Cap

This lens hood incorporates a lens cap that can

be opened or closed by using a lever located

on the side of the hood.

Supplied Wide Conversion Lens and
Additional Lens Hood

The high performance VCL-HG0758 Wide Conversion Lens

and its associated lens hood, LSF-S58 Lens Hood are bundled

with the DSR-PD170. The

LSF-S58 can serve as a lens

hood even when the Wide

Conversion Lens is not in use.

Other Functions

■ Date Stamping Superimpose date onto image, selected by menu.

■ AV to DV Out Convert analog input signals to DV signals.

DSR-PD170/PD170P Specifications

Lens 12:1 Variable Speed (1.2 - 22 sec.) zoom lens (48x digital zoom)

Focus Auto/Manual (ring)/Infinity/One push auto
Imaging Device Three 1/3-inch type CCDs

White Balance Auto/One-push/Outdoor (5800 K)/Indoor (3200 K)

Shutter Speed 1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/90, 1/100, 1/125, 1/180, 1/250,

Exposure Auto/Manual
Gain 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 dB
Minimum Illumination 1 lx with F1.6 at 18 dB gain
Horizontal Resolution 530 TV lines

Viewfinder 180,000 dot Black & White LCD

Audio Signal Rec. 48 kHz/16-bit, 32 kHz/12-bit

Built-in Speaker Dynamic Speaker, φ20 mm
LCD Hybrid, 2.5-inch, 211, 200 dots (960 x 220)

Tape Speed Approx. 28.2 mm/sec (DVCAM mode)

Maximum Recording Time 40 minutes (DVCAM mode)

Video Signal EIA Standard, NTSC color system (DSR-PD170)

7 1/8 (18)

Playback 48 kHz/16-bit, 32 kHz/12-bit, 32 kHz/16-bit, 44.1 kHz/16-bit

5 1/4 (133)

f=6.0 to 72.0 mm; F1.6 to 2.4; Filter Diameter 58 mm

Gross 380,000 pixels/effective 340,000 pixels (NTSC)
Gross 450,000 pixels/effective 400,000 pixels (PAL)
Progressive/Interlace Scan

1/350, 1/500, 1/725, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, 1/3000,
1/4000, 1/6000, 1/10000 second (NTSC)
1/3, 1/6, 1/12, 1/25, 1/50, 1/60, 1/100, 1/120, 1/150, 1/215,
1/300, 1/425, 1/600, 1/1000, 1/1250, 1/1750, 1/2500,
1/3500, 1/6000, 1/10000 second (PAL)

Horizontal Resolution: 500 TV lines

Approx. 18.8 mm/sec (DV SP mode)

60 minutes (DV SP mode)

CCIR Standard, PAL color system (DSR-PD170P)

15 1/2 (393)4 3/4 (11)

18 (456)

Unit: inches (mm)

Connectors

Video IN/OUT RCA pin x 1

Audio IN/OUT RCA pin x 2

S-Video IN/OUT Mini-Din 4-pin x 1

Audio IN XLR 3-pin female x 2, 327 mV, -60 dBu, 3 kΩ, +4 dBu, 10 kΩ

i.LINK™ *7(DV IN/OUT) 4-pin x 1
LANC Stereo mini jack (2.5 mm) x 1
Headphone Stereo mini jack (3.5 mm) x 1
External DC IN 8.4 V for AC-L15 AC adaptor

Operating Temperature 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C)
Storage Temperature -4 to 140 °F (-20 to 60 °C)
Power Requirements DC 7.2 V (Battery), DC 8.4 V (AC adaptor)
Power Consumption Rec. with LCD viewfinder only: 4.7 W

Dimensions (W x H x D) 4 3/4 x 7 1/8 x 15 1/2 inches (118 x 180 x 393 mm)

Weight Approx. 3 lb 6 oz (1.6 kg) (camcorder only)
Supplied Accessories AC-L15 AC Adaptor

*7 i.LINK is a trademark of Sony Corporation used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394

connector. All products with an i.LINK connector may not communicate with each other. Please refer to the
documentation that comes with any device having an i.LINK connector for information on compatibility operating
conditions and proper connection. For information on any device having an i.LINK connection contact nearest
Sony office.

Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p
75 Ω unbalanced, sync negative

327 mV
Output impedance with less than 2.2 kΩ
Input impedance with more than 47 kΩ

Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω, unbalanced
Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p (NTSC), 0.3 Vp-p (PAL)

(0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms)

Rec. with LCD monitor only: 5.4 W
Rec. with LCD viewfinder and LCD monitor: 5.7 W
Playback on LCD: 4.1 W

(camcorder only)
5 1/4 x 7 1/8 x 18 inches (133 x 180 x 456 mm)
including microphone

ECM-NV1 Electret Condenser Microphone
NP-F570 InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable Battery Pack
VCL-HG0758 Wide Conversion Lens
LSF-S58 Lens Hood for Wide Conversion Lens and Hood Cap
Lens Hood with Built-in Lens Cap
RMT-811 Remote Commander and R6 Batteries (x2)
Carrying Belt
i.LINK Cable Strap
Stereo AV Cable

01

INTRODUCTION

A “handy” addition

to the DVCAM

™

camcorder family

– The DSR-PD170

The DSR-PD170*1is a 1/3-inch type 3CCD Digital Camcorder that uses the DVCAM format. Like its predecessor,

the market acclaimed DSR-PD150/PD150P, the DSR-PD170 addresses a broad spectrum of applications - from

video journalism, wedding and event videography, corporate and training productions, up to broadcast

newsgathering - areas where picture quality, reliability, and mobility are prime concerns. In addition to inheriting

all the attractive features of the DSR-PD150/PD150P, the DSR-PD170 offers a range of enhancements for further

improved audio and video quality and operability, and adds new accessories to meet even more diverse shooting

scenarios. The DSR-PD170 is designed to become a “handy” tool for professional shooting in a wide range of

applications.

*1 Two models of the DSR-PD170 are available: the DSR-PD170 for NTSC and the DSR-PD170P for PAL.

DSR-PD170

Optional Accessories

Some of the following accessories may not be available in certain countries. For details, please contact your nearest Sony office.

2NP-F970

InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable Battery Pack

VMC-IL4408A/IL4415/IL4435
(4-pin to 4-pin, 0.8 m/1.5 m/3.5 m)

i.LINK Cable

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

Digital Videocassette (Mini size)

PDVM-12N/22N/32N/40N

Digital Videocassette (Non-IC type/Mini size)

PDVM-32MEM/40MEM

Digital Videocassette (Master tape/Mini size)

PDVM-12CL

Cleaning Cassette Tape (Mini size)

AC-V700A

AC Adaptor/Charger

VMC-IL4615/IL4635
(4-pin to 6-pin, 1.5 m/3.5 m)

i.LINK Cable

VCL-HG1758

Tele Conversion Lens 1.7x

MSH-32/64/128/128S2

IC Recording Media Memory Stick

LC-PD170TH

Hard Carrying Case for
DSR-PD170/PD170P

UWP-C1

UHF Synthesized Wireless Microphone
Package

LC-PD150BP

Soft Carrying Case for
DSR-PD170/PD170P

ECM-670/672/678

Electret Condenser Microphone
(CAC-12 Camera Microphone Holder
is required)

Sony Electronics Inc.
1 Sony Drive
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
www.sony.com/professional

V-2194-A
MK10072V2

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

©2005 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.

Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.

All non-metric weights and measurements are approximate.

Sony, Advanced HAD, DVCAM, i.LINK, InfoLITHIUM, Memory Stick, and

SteadyShot are trademarks of Sony.

Printed in U.S.A. 3/05