Sony Handycam DCR-DVD408, Handycam DCR-DVD508, Handycam DCR-DVD908, DCR-DVD506, Handycam DCR-DVD808 Operating Manual

2-319-640-11 (1)

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Getting

Started

Operating Guide

DCR-DVD40BIDVD50BI DVDBOBIDVD90B

Editing

Utilizing

recording

media

Customizing

your

camcorder

Using

a Computer

Troubleshooting

Additional

Information

Quick

Reference

\1~:

Spanish

Quick

Guide/

Guia

rapida

espanol

DVD

R/RW

eve

RaWritabie

OVO+R

MEMORY

STICK

InfoLlTHIUM

SER!ES

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do

not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

FiISKOFf:l.f.'CTFUC

;:IHO(;K

I DO NOT OPEN j

................

_ _ _ _ _ _.._ J

CAUTION:TOREDUCE THE f1iSK OF ELECTRiC SHOCK.

DO NOT REMOVE COVEr-i

~OR

BACK}.

NO U:3ER·SERVICEA8U:::

PNHS

INSIDE.

nEFER

SF.:TlViCINC:iTOQUAUF1ED

SERViCE

PEF1S0NNEL.

This symbolisintended 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

electric

shock to persons.

This symbolisintended to alert

the user to the presence

of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions

the literature

accompanying the appliance.

IMPORTANT

SAFEGUARDS

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

Use

Power

Sources

This set should be operated only from the type

power source indicated on the marking label.

If you are not sureofthe typeofelectrical power supplied to your home, consult your dealer

or local power company. For those sets designed to operate from battery power,orother sources, refer to the operating instructions.

Polarization

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

This plug will fit into the power outlet only one

way. Thisisa safety feature.Ifyou are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing

the plug.Ifthe plug should still fail to fit, contact

your electrician to have a suitable outlet installed. Do not defeat the safety purposeofthe polarized plug by forcing it

in.

Overloading

Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or

convenience receptacles beyond their capacity,

since this can result in fireorelectric shock.

Object

and

Liquid

Entry

Never push objectsofany kind into the set through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage pointsorshort out parts that could result

a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquidofany

kind on the set.

Attachments

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

Cleaning

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

Installation

Water

and

Moisture

Do not use power-line operated sets near

waterfor example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub,ina wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.

Power-Cord

Protection

Route the power cord so thatitis not likely to be

walkedonor

pinched by items placed upon

against them, paying particular attention to the

plugs, receptacles, and the point where the cord

exits from the appliance.

Accessories

Do not place the set onanunstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket,ortable. The set may fall, causing serious injury to a childoran adult, and serious damage to the set. Use only a cart, stand, tripod, bracket,ortable recommended by the manufacturer.

Ventilation

The slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for necessary ventilation.Toensure reliable operationofthe set, and to protect it from overheating, these slots and openings must never be blockedorcovered.

- Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth

other materials.

- Never block the slots and openings by placing the set on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.

- Never place the set in a confined space, such as a bookcase,orbuilt-in cabinet, unless proper ventilation is provided.

- Do not place the set near or over a radiator

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

Continued"

Lightning

For added protection for this set during a lightning

storm, or when

itisleft unattended and unused for

long periods of time, unplug

from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the set due

lightning and power-line surges.

Service

Damage

Requiring

Service

Unplug the set from the wall outlet and refer

servicing to qualified service personnel under the

following conditions:

- When the power cord or plug is damaged or

frayed.

liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen

into the set.

- If the set has been exposed to rain or water.

the set has been subject to excessive shock by

being dropped,

the cabinet has been

damaged.

the set does not operate normally when

following the operating instructions. Adjust

only those controls that are specified in the operating instructions. Improper adjustment

of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the set to normal operation.

- When the set exhibits a distinct change in performance - this indicates a need for service.

Servicing

not attempt to service the set yourself

as openingorremoving covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.

Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

Replacement

parts

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

Unauthorized substitutions may result

fire,

electric shock, or other hazards.

Safety

Check

Upon completionofany service or repairs to the set, ask the service technician to perform routine safety checks (as specified by the manufacturer) to determine that the set

isinsafe operating

condition.

Read

this

before

operating

your

camcorder

Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retainitfor future reference.

CAUTION

The useofoptical instruments with this product

will increase eye hazard. Use

controls or

adjustments or performance

procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

Replace the battery with the specified type only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.

For

customersinthe

U.S.A.

and

CANADA

RECYCLING

LITHIUM-ION

BATTERIES

Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve our environmentbyreturning

your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you.

For more information regarding recycling

of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-8228837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking

Lithium-Ion batteries.

Owner's

Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number

the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.

Model No. DCR-DVD Serial

No.

Model No. AC-

No.

For

customersinthe

U.S.A.

you have any questions about this product, you

may call: Sony Customer Information Center

1-800-222-S0NY (7669).

The number below

for the FCC related matters

only.

Regulatory

Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-DVD408 Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA

92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part

15ofthe 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.

Continued"

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY

Model No.: DCR-DVD508 Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego,

92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part15of

the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause

harmful interference, and (2) this device must

accept any interference received, including

interference that may cause undesired operation.

CAUTION

You are cautioned that any changes

or modifications not expressly approvedinthis manual could void your authority to operate this

equipment.

digital device pursuant to Subpart BofPart15of

FCC Rules.

For

the

StateofCalifornia,

USA

only

Prechlorate Material - special handling may apply. See

www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perch Iorate

Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery contains perchlorate.

Notesonuse

Your

camcorderissupplied

with

two

kindsofoperations

guides.

- "Operating Guide" (This manual)

- "First Step Guide" for using your camcorder with the computer connected (stored on the supplied CD-ROM)

Note

Typesofthe

disc

you

can

useinyour

camcorder

You can use the following discs only.

-8cmDVD-RW

-8cmDVD+RW

-8cmDVD-R

-8cm

DVD+R DL

Use the discs with marks listed below. See

page

for details.

• Using a disc other than above may cause the unsatisfactory recording/playbackoryou may not be able to remove the disc from your

camcorder.

* Depending on the place you bought, the disc has

~'C'V'DEOCAMERA

~PO"'CAMESCOPE

••

mar.

For reliability durabilityofrecording / playback, we recommend that you use Sony

· d' . h

to'VIDEO

*(f

ISCS or ISCS wit an

~CAMERA",

or VIDEO CAMERA) mark for your camcorder.

The supplied inteIi'ace cable must be used with the equipmentinorder to comply with the limits for a

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part15of

the FCC Rules.

These limits are designed to provide reasonable

protection against harmful interferenceina 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 inteIi'erence to radio communications.

However, thereisno guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.Ifthis equipment does cause harmful interference to radioortelevision reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment

off

and on,

the userisencouraged to try to correct the

inteIi'erence by one or moreofthe following

measures:

- Reorientorrelocate 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 dealeroran experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Note

LCD screen

Viewfinder

About

items,

LCD

panel,

viewfinder,

and

lens

• A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions.

• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely highprecision technology, so over 99.99%

the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen and the

Battery

• The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See "About

handling

your camcorder" (p. 107).

• To prevent discs from being broken or

recorded images from being lost, do not do the following when either

the

respective lamps

the POWER switch (p. 25) or the access lamps (p. 28, 30) is on:

remove

the

battery pack or

Adaptor

from

the

camcorder.

apply mechanical shock or vibration

the

camcorder.

• When connecting your camcorder to another device with a USB cable, be sure to insert the connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the terminal and may result in a malfunction

your

camcorder.

Using

the

camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

When

usinga"Memory

Stick

Duo"

with

"Memory

Stick"

compatible

equipment

Be sure to insert the "Memory Stick Duo"

into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

Memory Stick Duo Adaptor

• You cannot use any type of memory card except "Memory Stick Duo."

• "Memory Stick PRO" and "Memory Stick

PRO Duo" can be used only with "Memory Stick PRO" compatible equipment.

• Do not attach a label or the like on a "Memory Stick Duo" or a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

"Memory Stick"

(You cannot use it

your camcorder.)

Typesof"Memory

Stick"

you

can

use

your

camcorder

You can use "Memory Stick Duo" marked

with

MEMORY

STICK

Duo

MEMORY

STICK

PRO

Duo

(p. 104).

"Memory Stick Duo"

(This size can be used with your camcorder.)

Continued'"

viewfinder. These points are normal results

the manufacturing process and

do not affect the recording in any way.

Black point

White, blue or green point

• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder, or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods

time may cause malfunctions.

• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take images

the sun only in low light

conditions, such as at dusk.

recording

• Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the image and sound are recorded without any problems. You cannot delete images once you record them on a DVD-R/DVD+R DL. Use a DVD-RW/DVD+RW for trial recording (p. 14).

• Compensation for the contents

recordings cannot be provided, even if

recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction

the camcorder, storage

media, etc.

• TV color systems differ depending on the countries/regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.

• Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted.

Unauthorized recording

such materials

may be contrary to the copyright laws.

About

language

setting

The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the

operating procedures. Change the screen language before using your camcorder if necessary (p. 26).

About

this

manual

• The LCD screens and the viewfinder images and indicators shown

this

manual were taken with a digital still

camera, and may look different from what

you actually see.

• Design and specifications

recording

media and other accessories are subject

change without notice.

• The illustration used in this manual are based on the model DCR-DVD508/ DVD908.

• Disc in this Operating Guide refers to 8cm DVD discs.

About

the

Carl

Zeiss

lens

Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images.

adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of

a Carl Zeiss Lens. Also, the lens for your

camcorder is T*-coated

suppress unwanted reflections and faithfully reproduce colors. MTF= Modulation Transfer Function. The

number value indicates the amount

light

from a subject coming into the lens.

About

the

marks

usedinthis

manual

• The operations available depend on the disc used. The following marks are used to indicate the type

disc you can use

for a particular operation.

Table

Contents

Read this before operating your

camcorder 5

Subject examples and solutions

What you can do with your camcorder

Choosing a disc 14

Using your camcorder 16

HOME" and

"e.:::

OPTION"

- Taking advantage of two types of menus 18

Step

Checking supplied items

....................................................

Step2:Charging the battery pack

.................................................... 22

Step3:Turning the

power

on, and

setting the date and time 25

Changing the language setting

....................................................... 26

Step4:Preparing for recording

....................................................27

Step 5: Inserting a disc

"M St' k D "

emory

uo 28

Recording and playing back with

ease (Easy Handycam)

Recording 34

Zooming 36 Recording sound with more presence (5.1

ch surround recording) 36

Using the flash 36

Recording high quality still images

during movie recording (Dual Rec)

....................................................... 37

Recording

dark places (NightShot)

....................................................... 38

Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects 38 Recording

mirror mode 38

Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3)

Recording the fast action

slow-

motion (SMTH SLW REC) 39

Playback

.41

Using

zoom 43 Playing back a series of still images (Slide show) 43

Playing the picture on a TV

....................................................

Making the disc compatible with

playback on other devices or DVD

d .

)

rives Ina IZlng 46

~(OTHERS)

category 50

D I

r .

e e Ing Images

D' 'd'

th'

IVI

Ing e Image 52

Creating the Playlist

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer)

....................................................

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY)

category 59

Playing a disc on other devices

....................................................59

Finding the right disc (DISC SELECT

GUIDE) 60

Deleting all scenes on the disc

(Formatting)

Recording additional scenes after

finalizing 62

Continued..

What you can do with the

;;;;

(SETTINGS) category of the

HOME MENU 64

Using the HOME MENU 64 List of

the;;;;

(SETTINGS) category

items 65

MOVIE SETTINGS 66

(Items for recording movies)

PHOTO SETTINGS 68

(Items for recording still images)

VIEW IMAGES

SET

(Items to customize the display)

SOUNO/DISP SET 72

(Items to adjust beep and the

screen)

OUTPUT

SETTINGS 74

(Items for when connecting other devices)

CLOCK/~LANG

(Items to set clock and language)

GENERAL

SET 75

(Other setup items)

Activating functions using the

OPTION MENU 76

Using the OPTION MENU 76 Recording items

the OPTION

MENU 77

Viewing items

the OPTION MENU

..................................................... 77

Functions set in the OPTION MENU

.................................................... 78

What you can do with Windows computer 83

Installing the "First Step Guide" and software 85

Viewing "First Step Guide"

....................................................87

Using a Macintosh computer

....................................................87

Troubleshooting 88 Warning indicators and messages

....................................................

Using your camcorder abroad

..................................................

101

Maintenance and precautions

.................................................. 103

Specifications 110

Identifying parts and controls

.................................................. 114

Indicators displayed during recording/playback 118

Glossary

121

Index 122

Subject

examples

and

solutions

Shooting

~SMTH

SLW

REG

Dual

Rec

PORTRAIT

~FOGUS

TELE

MAGRO

~FOGUS

~SPOT

FOGUS

BAGK

L1GHT

~BEAGH

~SNOW

~SPOTLlGHT

~FIREWORKS

FOGUS

NightShot

~GOLOR

SLOW

SHTR

What

you

can

with

your

camcorder

Your camcorder records image data on 8cm DVD*.

more convenient than video tape and far more versatile.

rewindingtostart

recording

(p.31,

34)

Recorded images are stored in empty areas on the disc so there is no risk that valuable recordings are accidentally overwritten.

Since no rewinding is necessary prior to recording, you can start shooting any time you desire.

U Notes

• Still images can be recorded only on "Memory Stick Duo."

You

can

findascene

quickly

usingaVISUAL

INDEX

SCreen

(p.32,

41)

The VISUAL INDEX screen allows you to check

recorded contents

a glance.

All

you havetodo is

touch the scene you

want

to view.

The disc does not wear out no matter how many times you play it back. The precious moments you have captured on disc last for

along time.

Records

widescreen

format

and

5.1chsurround

sound

(p.36,

38)

You canrecord high quality widescreen images on a wide LCD

screen that shows the same 16:9 angleofview as a

wide

TV.

Realistic 5.1ch surround sound can also be

directly recorded onto the disc.

* DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)

a high-capacity optical disc.

Playbackona

DVD

deviceorDVD

drive(p.46)

You

can play back recorded and finalized** discs on a home DVD device, DVD recorder or DVD driveofacomputer that supports 8cm disc.

When finalizing the disc, you can create DVD menus to enable quick access to scenes you want to view.

PlaybackonwidescreenTVand

home

theater

(p.36,

44)

Images recorded in widescreen format can be played back on awide TV with complete panoramic effect. Discs are also recorded with 5.1chsurround sound to provide full sound on

a home theater.

C.Q

...

C")

l:»

C")

...

Cl.

...

High-speed

image

transfer

(p.83)

Imagedatacan be quickly transferred to acomputer without requiring playback. Computers with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0)provide even faster image transfer.

Using

the

supplied

softwaretoedit

and

copy

(p.83)

Picture Motion Browser, the software supplied with your

camcorder allows you to edit movies

still images stored

your computer to create your original DVD. Copying discs could not be easier enabling you to share your precious moments with family and friends.

Finalizing: a process to makeitpossible to play back recorded DVD on other DVD devices (p.46).

Choosingadisc

Your

camcorderiscompatible

with

8cm

DVD-RW,

DVD+RW,

DVD-R

and

DVD+R

DL.

does

not

support

12cm

discs.

Recording

time

Expected

recordable

timeonone

sideofthe

disc.

The

recordable

time

varies

depending

typeofdiscsorrecording

mode.

Recording mode

9M (HQ) (high quality) 6M

(SP) (standard quality)

3M (LP) (long play)

(32)

110(80)

'Q'Tips

• Figures suchas9M and 6Minthe table show the average bit rate. M stands for Mbps.

• If you use a double-sided disc, you can record

both sides of the disc (p.l03).

Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit Rate) format

automatically adjust image qualitytosuit the

recording scene. This technology causes fluctuations

the recording time of a disc. Movies containing quickly moving and complex images are recorded at a higher bit rate, and this reduces the overall recording time.

Recording

format

for

DVD-RW

When

you

useaDVD-

RW,

you

can

choose

the

recording

format

from

VIDEO

modeorVR

mode.

this

manual,

VIDEO

modeisindicated

and

mode

A recording format that

compatible with most DVD devices, especially after

finalizing.

In VIDEO mode, only the most recent image can be erased. A recording format that enables editing with your camcorder (deleting and

rearranging the orderofimages). A finalized disc can be played back in DVD devices*1 that support

mode.

VIDEO mode and

mode (!iT Glossary (p.121)

Disc

format

features

Figures in parentheses ( ) indicate page numbers.

Disc

types

and

symbols

Symbols

usedinthis

manual

Both

16:9

(wide)

and

4:3

movie

canberecorded

the

same

disc

(38)

Deleting

the

most

recent

recording

(51)

Deletingorediting

recordingsonyour

camcorder

(50)

Usingadisc

repeatedly

evenifthe

disc

becomes

fullbyformatting*2

(61)

Finalizing

requiredtoplayonother

devices

(46)

Creating

the

DVD

when

you

finalize

the

disc

(49)

Making

longer

recordingsona

sideofa

disc

DVD-RW

•

DVDtRW

DVD-R

DVDtR

Refer to the instruction manualofyour DVD device to see whether it supports the VR modeofDVD-RW.

Formatting deletes all recordings and returns the recording medium to its original empty state (p.61). Even when using a new disc, format it with your camcorder (p.28).

*3 Finalizing is required to play the disc in a DVD drive on a computer. A DVD+RW that is not finalized may

cause the computer to malfunction.

Using

your

camcorder

(DPreparing

(See page21to

30.)

Select the disc that best suits your needs.

Do you want to delete images and reuse the disc?

Do you want to delete or edit images

your

camcorder?

I For long recording

eve

-R

* Select the recording format and format the disc on your camcorder (p.28).

"Q'TipS

• You can select the disc from [DISC SELECT GUIDE] (p.60).

@Recording,

playback,

editing

(See pages

31,32,41,

and 52.)

What you can do with your camcorder depends on the type

disc (p.15).

@Viewingonyour

camcorder

(See pages 32 and 41)

You

can also connect it to a TV for viewing

(p.44).

Continued

the next page

:::s

:::s-

...

C")

...

DVD

drive

Recordings can be added

without unfinalizing.

Unfinalizing allows you to add recordings (p.62).

Recordings cannot be

added even ifthere is free

.~~Jt1i:t£

:.~~

space left.

Thedisc can be played back in a device compatible with the DVD-RW VR mode.

Like commercially sold

K,,,,:.:.l_}::}}~;t{.·~>1

DVD, this disc can be played back

most DVD

devices after finalizing.

DVD

device /

DVD

recorder

" Notes

• The less the recording volumeofthe disc is, the moreittakes time to finalize the disc.

The features

a finalized disc depend on disc type.

DVD

-R

@Viewing

another

DVD

device

(See pages 46, 59.) To view a disc recorded on your camcorder on other DVD devices, you need to finalize

it first.

The disc can be played back without finalizing.

.,'" IBut finalizing

required in some cases.

For details, see page 46.

Playback

compatibility

Playbackcompatibility with any DVD device is not guaranteed. Refer to the instruction manual supplied with your DVD device or consult your dealer.

\,'-------------------------------------'

HOME"

and

"~OPTION"

•

Taking

advantageoftwo

typesofmenus

OME

MENU"•the

starting

camcorder

W(HELP)

Displays a description of the item

(p.

19)

PLAYllST

EDIT PRINT

category

Items MOVIE* PHOTO* SMTH

SLW

REC

Page

35 35 39

W@:>(MANAGE

DISC/MEMORY)

category

Items

Page

NALIZE

DISC

SELECT

GUIDE

(VIEW

IMAGES)

category

(l)

FORMAT*

Items VISUAL

INDEX*

PLAYLIST

~(OTHERS)

category

Items DELETE* EDIT

PLAYLIST

EDIT

COMPUTER

Page

UNFINALIZE

DISC

INFO

;ii

(SETTINGS)

category

To customize your camcorder (p. 64).

* You can also set these items during Easy

Handycam operation

(p. 31). For items

available

the

m(SETTINGS)

category, see

page

64.

::;:

o c

C")

l»

C")

Cl.

C'D

Continue

operation

following

the

guidance

the

screen.

Touch

the item

you

wanttouse.

Example: [EDIT]

Using.

the

HOME

Turn

the

POWER

switchtoturn

your

camcorder.

2 Press

(HOME)

[AJ

(or

[6]).

hide

the

HOME

screen

Touch

'1\

(HOME)

[6]

.1\(HOME)

[AJ

When

you

wanttoknow

something

about

the

functionofeach

item

the

HOME

MENU-HELP

Press

.)\

(HOME).

The HOME MENU appears.

Touch

the

category

you

want

use.

Example: m(OTHERS) category

® Touch

[I]

(HELP).

The bottomofthe

[I]

(HELP) button

turns orange.

Continued"

® Touch the item

you

wanttoknow the

content.

When you touch an item, its explanation appears on the screen. To

apply the option, touch [YES],

otherwise, touch [NO].

deactivate

the

HELP

Touch

(HELP) again in step

Using

the

OPTION

Just a touch on the screen during recording

playback displays the functions available at that moment. You will find it easy to make various settings. See page 76 for further details.

O=(OPTION)

Step

Checking

supplied

items

Make sure that you have the following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the

numberofthat item supplied.

AC Adaptor (1)

(p.

22)

Power cord (1)

(p.

22)

connecting cable (1) (p. 44, 56)

USB cable (1)

(p.

57)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 117)

A button-type lithium batteryisalready installed.

Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60 (1)

(p.22)

CD-ROM "Handycam Application Software" (1) (p. 83)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Ci) CD

::s

ICI

l»

...

CD CI.

Step

Charging

the

battery

pack

POWER switch

•..

V!'..;.;'---------j

Power cord

To the wall outlet

You can charge the "lnfoLiTHIUM" battery pack (H series) (p. 106) after attaching it to your camcorder.

" Notes

• You can use only "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack H series.

1 Turn the POWER switch

the direction of the arrow to OFF (CHG) (The default setting).

2 Attach the battery pack by sliding

the direction of the arrow until it clicks. Lift up the viewfinder and attach the battery pack by sliding it

in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

jack of your camcorder.

Open the jack cover, and connect the DC plug

the AC Adaptor.

Match the

mark on the DC plug with

the

mark on your camcorder.

---_._-----------

4 Connect the power cord to the AC

Adaptor and the wall outlet.

The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp

turns

off

when the battery is fully

charged.

5 Disconnect the AC Adaptor from

the DC

jack on your

camcorder.

" Notes

• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the camcorder and the DC

plug.

pressing

DISPIBATT

INFO

again

while

the

informationisdisplayed.

Remaining battery (approx.)

CO)

::s

l»

....

CD C.

135

170

390

135

Charging

time

NP-FHlOO

NP-FH70

Recording capacity (approx.)

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH50

Battery

pack

Approximate

time

(min.)

required

when

you

fully

chargeafully

discharged

battery

pack.

Charging

time

BATT (battery) release button

When

storing

the

battery

pack

Fully

discharge

the

battery

before

storing

for

extended

period.

" Notes

• When

you

remove the battery pack or the

Adaptor, make sure that the

(Movie) lamp/

Q (Still) lamp

(p.

25)isturned off.

remove

the

battery

pack

Turn the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

® Raise the viewfinder.

Press the BATT (battery) release button and remove the battery pack.

Recording

time

Approximate

time

(min.)

available

when

you

use

a fully

charged

battery

pack.

DCR-DVD408/DVD808

useanoutside

power

source

Make

the

same

connectionsasyoudowhen

charging

the

battery

pack.

The

battery

pack

will

not

lose

its

chargeinthis

case.

check

the

remaining

battery

(Battery

Info)

Set

the

POWER

switchtoOFF

(CHG),

then

press

DISPIBATTINFO.

Afterawhile,

the

approximate

recordable

time

and

battery

information

appear

for

about7seconds.

You

can

view

the

battery

information

forupto 20

seconds

Battery

pack

NP-FH50

NP-FH60 (supplied)

NP-FH70

NP-FHlOO

Continuous recording

time

75 80

80 100 105 105 160 170 170

375 395 395

Typical recording time*

40 40

50 50 50 80 85

85 185 195 195

Continued'"

On the AC Adaptor

• Use the nearby wall outlet when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the

the charging/recording/playback time

• Times measured when using the camcorder at 25°C

(77

OF)

(10°Cto30°C

(50OFto 86

OF)

recommended) .

• The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder

low

temperatures.

• The recording and playback time will be shorter depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder.

On the battery pack

• Before changing the battery pack, Turn the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) and turn off the

rt=ll

(Movie)

lamp/O

(Still) lamp (p. 25).

• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or Battery Info (p. 23) will not be correctly displayed under the following conditions:

- The battery pack

not attached correctly.

- The battery pack

damaged.

- The battery pack

worn-out (For Battery

Info only).

• The power will not be supplied from the battery as long

the AC Adaptorisconnected to the

DC IN jack

your camcorder, even when the

power cord

disconnected from the wall outlet.

• When attaching an optional video light,

recommended that you use an NP-FH70/NP-

FH 100 battery pack.

• We do not recommend using

NP-FH30,

which only allows short recording and playback

times, with your camcorder.

DCR-DVD508/DVD908

160

120

590

255

LCD

panel

closed

110

145

235 545

LCD

panel

opened*

NP-FH70 NP-FHIOO

NP-FH60

(supplied)

NP-FH50

Battery

pack

* When the LCD backlight

on.

Battery

pack

LCD

panel

LCD

panel

opened*

closed

NP-FH50

110

120

NP-FH60

145

160

(supplied)

NP-FH70

235

255

NP-FHIOO

545

590

Playing

time

Approximate

time

(min.)

available

when

you

useafully

charged

battery

pack.

DCR-DVD408/DVD808

* Typical recording time shows the time when

you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/off and zooming.

" Notes

• All times measured with recording mode [SP] under the following conditions: Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off.

Bottom: Recording time when recording with

the viewfinder while the LCD panel

closed.

DCR-DVD508/DVD908

Continuous

Typical

Battery

pack

recording

time

time*

NP-FH50

NP-FH60

(supplied)

NP-FH70

140

150

NP-FHIOO

335

165

345

170

345

170

wall outlet immediatelyifany malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.

•

not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow

space, such as between a wall and furniture.

• Do not short-circuit the DC plug

the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.

• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor.

Step

Turning

the

power

on,

and

setting

the

date

and

time

Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.

POWER switch

1 While pressing the green button,

turn the POWER switch

repeatedly in the direction of the arrow until the respective lamp lights up.

(Movie): To record movies

Q (Still): To record still images

The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.

2 Select the desired geographical

area with .&IT, then touch [NEXT].

3 Set [DST SET] or

[SUMMERTIME], then touch

[NEXT].

CO)

Continued"

4 Set [V] (year) with

AlT.

5 Select [M] with

"/~,

then set the

month with

AI".

6 Set

[0]

(day), hour and minute

the same way, then touch [NEXT].

7 Make sure that the clock

correctly set, then touch

!oKI.

The clock starts.

You can set any year up to the year

2037. For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM. For midday, set it to 12:00 PM.

turn

off

the

power

Turn the

POWER

switch to OFF (CHG).

reset

the

date

and

time

Selectt\

(HOME)

--+

;i,(SETTINGS)

--+

[CLOCKI[fJ3LANG]

--+

[CLOCK SET],

and set the date and time.

Notes

•Ifyou do not use your camcorder for about 3

months,

the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 109).

• It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be ready to shoot after the power

turned on. You

cannot operate your camcorder during this time.

• The lens cover opens automatically when the power is turned on.

closes when the playback

screen

selected, or the power is turned off.

• In the setting at the time

purchase, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power

([A.SHUT OFF],

75).

'Q*

Tips

• The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the disc, and can be displayed during

playback (see page

for [DATA CODE]).

• Refer to page 102 for information concerning

"World time difference."

•

the buttons on the touch panel do not work

correctly, adjust the LCD screen

([CALIBRATION], p. 108).

Changing

the

language

setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Touch

(HOME)

--+

til

(SETTINGS)--+[CLOCKI

[fJ3LANG]--+[[fJ3LANGUAGE SET], then

select the desired language.

Step

Preparing

for

recording

LCD

panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder

(CD),

then rotate ittothe best

angle to record or play

(0).

eD90

degrees to the

®90

degrees camcorder

(max.)

DISP/BATT INFO

®1

degrees

(max.)

turn

off

the

LCD

backlighttomake

the

battery

last

longer

Press and hold DISPIBATT INFO for a few seconds until

;C6~F

appears. This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or you want to save battery power. The recorded image will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold

DISPI

BATT INFO for a few seconds until

:C6~F

disappears.

" Notes

• Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame when you open or adjust the LCD panel.

.~.

Tips

• If you open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the

camcorder, then rotate

180 degrees to the lens

side, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD

screen facing out. This

convenient during

playback operations.

• On the HOME MENU,

touch;;

(SETTINGS)

[SOUNDIDISP SET]--[LCD BRIGHT] (p. 72) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

• The information

displayed or hidden (display

.........nodisplay) each time you press DISP

BATT/INFO.

Viewfinder

You can view images using the viewfinder to

avoid wearing down the battery, or when

the image seen on the LCD screen is poor.

Viewfinder

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the image becomes

clear.

.~.

Tips

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight

selecting

;;;

(SETTINGS)

-[SOUND/DISP SET]--[VF B.LIGHT] on the HOME MENU (p. 73).

:::s

...

Step

Insertingadisc

ora"Memory

Stick

Duo"

Disc

A new 8 cm DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVDR,

or DVD+R DLisrequired for recording

(p. 14).

" Notes

• Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc beforehand, using a soft cloth (p.104).

1 Check that the power of your

camcorder

on.

2 Turn the disc cover OPEN switch

the direction of the arrow

(OPEN

~).

[PREPARING TO OPEN] appears on the LCD screen.

The disc cover slightly opens

tomatically.

Disc cover

OPEN switch

~PE~I

0000

Pickup lens

When

the disc

cover

ACCESS lamp

opens

slightly, open (Disc)

it further.

3 Set the disc with the recording

side facing your camcorder, then press the center of the disc until it clicks.

Set the disc with the label side facing out when using a single-sided disc.

4 Close the disc cover.

[DISC ACCESS] appears on the LCD

screen.

may take some time for the camcorder

to recognize the disc.

•

DVD-RW/DVD+RW

A window appearstoask whether you will use [DISC SELECT GUIDE]. Using [DISC SELECT GUIDE] lets you format the disc by following the guidance on the screen.

youdonot

want

use it, proceedtostep 5.

•

DVD-R/DVD+R

You can start recording immediately after [DISC ACCESS] disappears from the LCD screen. You do not need

proceedtosteps after step

5 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

•

DVD-RW

Select the recording format, [VIDEO] or [VR] (p. 14), then touch

•

DVD+RW

Select

the

aspect

ratioofthe

movie,

[16:9

WIDE]

[4:3],

then

touch

IgEJ.

6 Touch [YES].

7 Touch

[6K]

when [Completed.]

displayed.

When

the

formattingiscompleted,

you

can

start

recording

the

disc.

'Q*

Tips

•

When

you

useaDVD-RW

while

the

Easy

Handycam

operation

(p. 31) is set,

the

recording

formatisfixedtoVIDEO

mode.

remove

the

disc

Perform

steps 1 and 2 to open the disc

cover.

® Press the disc holder in the

centerofthe disc compartment, and remove the disc by holding the edge.

" Notes

•Becareful not to obstruct the operation with your hand or other objects, etc., when opening

or closing the disc cover. Move the belt to the

bottom of the camcorder, then open or close the

disc cover.

o If you catch the belt when closing the disc

cover, it may cause your camcorder

malfunction.

o Do not touch the disc with the recording side or

pickup lens

(p.1

09). When using a double-sided disc, take care not to smudge the surface with fingerprints.

o If you close the disc cover with the disc set

incorrectly,

may cause your camcorder to

mal

function.

o Do not disconnect the power sources during

formatting.

o Do not apply shock or vibration

your

camcorder:

while the ACCESS lamp

- while the ACCESS lamp

flashing

- while [DISC ACCESS] or [PREPARING TO

OPEN]

displayed on the LCD screen

may take some time to remove the disc depending on the disc condition or recorded materials.

may take upto10

minutestoremove a disc

if itisdamaged orisdirty with fingerprints, etc. In that case, the disc might be damaged.

'Q*

Tips

o You can remove the disc when a power source

connected to your camcorder even when your

camcorder

turned off. However, the disc

recognition process (step 4) does not start.

o To delete all of the previously recorded images

from a DVD-RWIDVD+RW, then to use

again to record new images, see "Deleting all

scenes on the disc (Formatting)" on page 61.

o You can check the right disc using [DISC

SELECT GUIDE] on the HOME MENU (page

60).

"Memory

Stick

Duo"

You

can

use

onlya"Memory

Stick

Duo"

marked

with

MEMORY

STI[K

Duo

MEMORY

STI[K

PRD

Duo

(p. 104).

'Q*

Tips

o The number of recordable images vary,

depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 68.

CO) CD

:::s

ICI

....

CI.

Continued'"

1 Open the LCD panel.

2 Insert the "Memory Stick Duo"

into the "Memory Stick Duo" slot in

the right direction untilitclicks.

Access lamp ("Memory Stick Duo")

ejecta"Memory

Stick

Duo"

Lightly push the "Memory Stick Duo" in

once.

" Notes

• When the access lampislit or flashing, your camcorder

reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the "Memory Stick Duo," or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged.

• If you insert the "Memory Stick Duo" into the slot in the wrong direction, the "Memory Stick Duo," the "Memory Stick Duo" slot, or image data may be damaged.

• When inserting or ejecting the "Memory Stick Duo," be careful with the "Memory Stick Duo" from popping out and dropping.

+ 143 hidden pages

Sony Handycam DCR-DVD408, Handycam DCR-DVD508, Handycam DCR-DVD908, DCR-DVD506, Handycam DCR-DVD808 Operating Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual