Sony HC94E, HC44E User Manual

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2-659-814-11(1)

Digital Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E/

HC94E/HC96E

Getting Started 8

Recording/

Playback

Using the Menu 40

Dubbing/Editing 67

Using a Computer 82

Troubleshooting 95

Additional Information 118

Read this first

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

WARNING

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

CAUTION

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

FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

NOTICE ON THE SUPPLIED AC ADAPTOR

A moulded plug complying with BS1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience.

Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the supplied one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS 1362, (i.e., marked with or mark) must be used.

If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE

ATTENTION

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

using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the communication cable (USB, etc.) again.

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources.

For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Applicable Accessory: Remote Commander

Notes on use

Your camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operation guides.

– “Operating Guide” (This manual) – “First Step Guide” for connecting the

camcorder to a computer and using the supplied software (stored on the supplied CD-ROM)

This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for

Types of cassette you can use in your camcorder

You can use mini DV cassettes marked with . Mini DV cassettes with Cassette Memory are incompatible (p. 118).

Types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder

There are two sizes of “Memory Stick.” You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

(p. 119).

“Memory Stick Duo” (This size can be used with your camcorder.)

Using the camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder Battery pack

“Memory Stick” (You cannot use it in your camcorder.)

• 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.

When using a “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

LCD panel Shoe cover

(DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof or waterproof. See “Maintenance and precautions” (p. 124).

• Before connecting your camcorder to another device with a USB or i.LINK cable, be sure to insert the connector plug the correct way, and not forcibly to avoid damaging the terminal, or cause a malfunction of your camcorder.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E: Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the Handycam Station holding both the Handycam Station and the DC plug.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E: Be sure to slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) when you insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station or remove the camcorder from it.

Continued ,

Read this first (Continued)

About menu 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% of 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 viewfinder. These points are normal results of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.

Black point

White, red, blue or green point

• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder, or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause malfunctions.

• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun only in low light conditions, such as at dusk.

On recording

• Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound are recorded without any problems.

• Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot be provided, even if recording or playback is not possible due

to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc.

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

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

About this manual

• The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used in this manual for illustration purposes are captured using a digital still camera, and therefore may appear different.

• 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. 65).

• The illustrations used on this manual are based on the model DCR-HC96E. The model name is indicated on the bottom of your camcorder.

• Design and specifications of recording media and accessories are subject to change without notice.

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. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens. MTF= Modulation Transfer Function. The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens.

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: The lens for your camcorder is T -coated to suppress unwanted reflections and faithfully reproduce colors.

Table of Contents

Read this first ...........................................................................................2

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items ..............................................................8

Step 2: Charging the battery pack ............................................................9

Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ..........14

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................16

Step 5: Using the touch panel ................................................................17

Changing the language setting .................................................................... 17

Checking the screen indicators (Display guide) .......................................... 17

Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................19

Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” ..................................20

Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture

(DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E) .........................................22

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam) .........................................24

Recording ...............................................................................................26

Playback .................................................................................................27

Functions used for recording/playback, etc. ...........................................28

Recording

To use zoom To use the flash (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) To record in dark places (NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E) To record in dark places (NightShot) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects (BACK LIGHT) To adjust the focus for an off center subject (SPOT FOCUS) To fix the exposure for the selected subject (Flexible spot meter) To record in mirror mode To use a tripod To use a Shoulder belt

Playback

To play back the images in sequence (SLIDE SHOW) To use PB zoom

Recording/playback

To check the remaining battery (Battery Info) To turn off the operation confirmation beep (BEEP) To use special effects To initialize the settings (RESET) Other part names and functions

Continued ,

Indicators displayed during recording/playback ..................................... 32

Searching for the starting point ..............................................................35

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording

(END SEARCH) .................................................................................. 35

Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH) ........................................................... 35

Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review) ....................... 35

Remote Commander ..............................................................................36

Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) .......................... 36

Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) .......................... 37

Playing the picture on a TV ....................................................................38

Using the Menu

Using the menu items ........................................................... 40

Menu items ............................................................................................42

CAMERA SET menu ........................................................................45

Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/ WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)

MEMORY SET menu ......................................................................51

Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc.)

PICT.APPLI. menu .........................................................................55

Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (SLIDE SHOW/PICT. EFFECT/FRAME REC, etc.)

EDIT/PLAY menu ........................................................................... 60

Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/ END SEARCH, etc.)

STANDARD SET menu ..................................................................61

Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/ MULTI-SOUND/LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT, etc.)

TIME/LANGU. menu .......................................................................65

(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE)

Customizing Personal Menu .................................................................. 65

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc. .........................................................67

Recording pictures from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc.

Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” ......................... 73

Dubbing sound to a recorded tape .........................................................74

Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo” ...................... 76

Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information

(DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E) ..................................................... 70

(Print mark/Image protection) ....................................................... 77

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) ........................78

Jacks to connect external devices ..........................................................80

Using a Computer

Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer ..................82

Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer ................85

Viewing “First Step Guide” .....................................................................89

Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) .................................90

Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder

(Signal convert function) (DCR-HC96E) .......................................93

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting ......................................................................................95

Warning indicators and messages .......................................................113

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad ..............................................................118

Usable cassette tapes ..........................................................................118

About the “Memory Stick” .....................................................................119

About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ..................................................121

About i.LINK .........................................................................................123

Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................124

Specifications .......................................................................................127

Index .....................................................................................................133

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

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

• The cassette tape and “Memory Stick Duo” are not supplied. See page 3, 118, 119, for compatible cassettes and “Memory Stick Duo” for your camcorder.

AC Adaptor (1) (p. 9)

Mains lead (1) (p. 9)

Handycam Station (1) (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E) (p. 9)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 36)

USB cable (1) (p. 78, 82)

Lens cap (1) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E) (p. 14, 24, 26)

• To attach the lens cap Attach the lens cap to the metal fittings of the Grip belt, as illustrated below, using the strap.

Rechargeable battery pack (1) (p. 9, 121)

NP-FP30 (DCR-HC36E) NP-FP50 (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)

CD-ROM “Picture Package Ver.1.5.1” (1) (p. 82)

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 38, 70, 93)

21-pin adaptor (1) (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E) (p. 39)

For the models with the mark printed on their bottom surfaces only.

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 121) after attaching it to your camcorder.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

POWER switch

DC IN jack

Handycam Station

To the wall socket

DC plug

AC Adaptor

Mains lead

For DCR-HC36E:

POWER switch

DC IN jack

DC plug

To the wall socket

AC Adaptor

Mains lead

1 Align the terminals of the battery

pack and your camcorder (1), then attach the battery pack and click it into place (2).

Getting Started

2 Slide the POWER switch in the

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

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack on the Handycam Station for the DCR-HC44E/ HC46E/HC94E/HC96E or on your camcorder for the DCR-HC36E.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E:

DC IN jack

With the v mark facing up

Continued ,

Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

For DCR-HC36E:

With the v mark facing to the LCD screen

DC IN jack

4 For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/

HC96E: Connect the mains lead to the AC Adaptor and the wall socket. Insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station securely, all the way to the bottom.

DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

/CHG

(charge) lamp

DCR-HC44E/HC46E:

CHG (charge) lamp

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

• When inserting the camcorder into the Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover.

For DCR-HC36E: Connect the mains lead to the AC Adaptor and the wall socket.

CHG (charge) lamp

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

5 The CHG (charge) lamp turns off

when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E: Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack holding both the Handycam Station and the DC plug.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: To charge the battery pack using only the AC Adaptor

Turn off the power, then connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

• You can operate your camcorder connected to a power source such as a wall socket as shown in the illustration. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case.

POWER switch

With the v mark facing to the LCD screen

DC plug

To remove the battery pack

1 Slide the POWER switch to OFF

(CHG). Hold down the V BATT (battery) release lever with one hand.

2 Remove the battery in the direction of

the arrow with the other hand.

POWER switch

Getting Started

DC IN jack

To the wall socket

AC Adaptor

Mains lead

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: To remove your camcorder from the Handycam Station

Turn off the power, then remove the camcorder from the Handycam Station holding both your camcorder and the Handycam Station.

For DCR-HC36E: To use an outside power source

You can operate your camcorder using the power from the wall socket by making the same connections as you do when charging the battery pack. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case.

V BATT (battery) release lever

When storing the battery pack

Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (p. 122).

Charging time

Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.

Battery pack Charging time

NP-FP30*

NP-FP50*

NP-FP70 155

NP-FP71 170

NP-FP90 220

*1supplied with DCR-HC36E

supplied with DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E

115

125

Recording time

Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.

Continued ,

Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

DCR-HC36E

Continuous

Battery pack

recording time

NP-FP30 (supplied) 85

NP-FP50 120

NP-FP70 255

NP-FP71 300

NP-FP90 455

• All times measured under the following conditions: Top: Recording with LCD screen. Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the LCD panel closed.

* Typical recording time shows the time when

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

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

Continuous

Battery pack

recording time

NP-FP50 (supplied) 100

NP-FP70 215

NP-FP71 255

NP-FP90 385

• All times measured under the following conditions: Top: Recording with LCD screen. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off. Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the LCD panel closed.

105

150

310

370

550

115 115

240 240

290 290

435 435

Typical recording time*

40 50

60 75

125 155

150 185

225 275

Typical recording time*

55 65 65

120 130 130

140 160 160

210 240 240

* Typical recording time shows the time when

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

DCR-HC94E/HC96E

Battery pack

Continuous recording time

NP-FP50 (supplied) 80

NP-FP70 175

NP-FP71 205

NP-FP90 310

• All times measured under the following conditions: Top: Recording with LCD screen. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off. Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the LCD panel closed.

* Typical recording time shows the time when

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

190 200

230 235

345 355

Typical recording time*

45 90 95

105 110

110 125 130

170 190 195

Playing time

Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.

DCR-HC36E

Battery pack

LCD panel opened

NP-FP30 (supplied) 90 110

NP-FP50 125 160

NP-FP70 265 330

NP-FP71 315 395

NP-FP90 475 580

LCD panel closed

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

LCD panel closed

NP-FP50 (supplied) 120 150

NP-FP70 255 310

NP-FP71 300 370

NP-FP90 455 550

* When the LCD backlight turns on.

DCR-HC94E/HC96E

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

LCD panel closed

NP-FP50 (supplied) 115 140

NP-FP70 240 295

NP-FP71 290 350

NP-FP90 435 525

* When the LCD backlight turns on.

On the battery pack

• Before changing the battery pack, slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or the Battery Info (p. 31) will not be correctly displayed under the following conditions.

– The battery pack is not attached correctly. – The battery pack is damaged. – The battery pack is worn-out (For Battery

Info only).

• The power will not be supplied from the battery as long as the AC Adaptor is connected to the DC IN jack of your camcorder or the Handycam Station supplied with the DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E, even when the mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket.

On the AC Adaptor

• Use the nearby wall socket when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.

• Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.

• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.

PRECAUTION

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

Getting Started

On the charging/recording/playback time

• Times measured with the camcorder at 25°C (77°F). (10 - 30 °C (50 - 86°F) is recommended.)

• The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperatures.

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

Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly

To record or play back, slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 19).

POWER switch

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly in the direction of the arrow to turn on the respective lamp.

For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E: Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap.

Lamps that light up CAMERA-TAPE: To record on a tape. CAMERA-MEMORY: To record on a

“Memory Stick Duo.” PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.

• After you have set the date and time ([CLOCK SET], p. 19), the next time you turn on the power of your camcorder, the current date and time will be displayed on the LCD screen for a few seconds.

2 Hold the camcorder correctly.

3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten

the Grip belt.

For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: The lens cover opens automatically when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERAMEMORY.

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.

To turn off the power

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E: Attach the lens cap after turning off the power.

• At the time of purchase, the power will be set to turn off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 64).

• If warning messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions (p. 114).

Getting Started

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder

The LCD panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2 ).

DISP/BATT INFO

180 degrees (max.)

90 degrees (max.)

• Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame

accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD panel.

• If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the

lens side, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing out. This is convenient during playback operations.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: To turn off the LCD backlight to make the battery last longer

Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds until appears. This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or where you want to save battery power. The recorded picture will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds until disappears.

• See [LCD/VF SET] - [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 62) to

adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

90 degrees to the camcorder

The viewfinder

You can view pictures using the viewfinder to avoid wearing down the battery, or when the picture seen on the LCD screen is poor.

Viewfinder

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the picture is clear.

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight by selecting [LCD/VF SET] - [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 62).

• You can adjust the [FADER] and the [EXPOSURE] setting using the viewfinder (p. 56).

Step 5: Using the touch panel

You can play back recorded pictures (p. 27), or change the settings (p. 40) using the touch panel.

Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

DISP/BATT INFO

DCR-HC36E/ HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC94E/ HC96E

Touch the button on the LCD screen.

• Perform the same actions as explained above when you press the buttons on the LCD frame.

• Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD frame accidentally while using the touch panel.

• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly, adjust the LCD screen (CALIBRATION) (p. 125).

• Dots in lines may appear on the LCD screen, but this is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded.

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Select the screen language in [LANGUAGE] on the (TIME/ LANGU.) menu (p. 40, 65).

Checking the screen indicators (Display guide)

You can easily check the meaning of each indicator (p. 34) that appears on the LCD screen.

1 Touch .

60min

TELE

1/3

MACRO

SPOT FOCUS

Touch [MENU] during Easy Handycam operation (p. 24).

DISP GUIDE

EXPOSURE

FADE R

–:––:––

2 Touch [DISP GUIDE].

Select area for guide.

DISP GUIDE

END

Getting Started

To hide the screen indicators

Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the screen indicators (such as time code) on or off.

The indicators vary depending on the settings.

Continued ,

Step 5: Using the touch panel (Continued)

3 Touch the area including the

indicator that you want to check.

DISP GUIDE

1/2

FOCUS: MANUAL PROGRAM AE: SPOTLIGHT STEADYSHOT: OFF

END

The meanings of the indicators in the area are listed on the screen. If you cannot find the indicator you want to check, touch / to toggle.

When you touch , the screen returns to the area selecting display.

To finish the operation

Touch [END].

Step 6: 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.

• If you 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. 126).

POWER switch

Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for the first time.

1 Touch t [MENU].

60min

CAMERA SET

PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE

–:––:––

3 Select [CLOCK SET] with / ,

then touch .

CLOCK SET

DATE

2006

4 Set [Y] (year) with / , then

touch .

You can set any year up to the year

2079.

CLOCK SET

DATE

2006

5 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour

and minute, then touch .

The clock starts.

• The date and time are not displayed while recording, but they are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback (see page 63 for [DATA CODE] (During Easy Handycam operation, you can set only [DATE/TIME])).

Y1M1D

Y1 M1D

–:––:––

0: 00

–:––:––

0: 00

Getting Started

2 Select (TIME/LANGU.) menu

with / , then touch .

60min

DISP OUTPUT

MENU ROTATE

A. SHUT OFF

CLOCK SET

WORLD

LANGUAGE

PROGRAM AE

–:––:––

––:––:––

Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick

{DO NOT PUSH}

Duo”

Cassette tape

You can use mini DV cassettes only (p. 118).

• The recordable time varies depending on [ REC MODE] (p. 61).

1 Slide and hold the OPEN/

EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

OPEN/EJECT lever

Lid

The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up.

2 Insert a cassette with its window

facing outwards, then press

Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly.

Cassette compartment

The cassette compartment automatically slides back in.

• Do not force the cassette compartment closed by pressing the portion marked while it is sliding in. It may cause a malfunction.

Window

3 Close the lid.

To eject the cassette

Open the lid following the same procedure as described in Step 1 and remove the cassette.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

“Memory Stick Duo”

You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

(p. 119).

• The number and time of recordable pictures varies depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 52.

1 Open the LCD panel.

DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E:

Access lamp

With the v mark facing to the LCD screen

• If you force the “Memory Stick Duo” into the slot in the wrong direction, th e “Memory Stick Duo,” the “Memory Stick Duo” slot, or image data may be damaged.

Getting Started

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”

into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot in the right direction until it clicks.

DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

Access lamp

With the v mark facing to the LCD screen

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

Lightly push in once and slide out the “Memory Stick Duo” alongside the camcorder body.

• Do not remove the “Memory Stick Duo” forcibly with the fingers as it may be damaged.

• When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is 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.

• When inserting or ejecting the “Memory Stick Duo,” be careful that the “Memory Stick Duo” does not pop out and drop.

Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E)

By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-quality pictures.

• If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended.

WIDE SELECT button POWER switch

Selecting the aspect ratio for recording movies on a tape

Be sure to set the POWER switch to CAMERA-TAPE.

Press WIDE SELECT repeatedly to select the desired screen aspect ratio.

16:9* 4:3*

• When viewing pictures recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio with [TV TYPE] set to [4:3], pictures may appear rough depending on the subject (p. 39).

Recording a moving picture or still image on the “Memory Stick Duo”

1 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA-

MEMORY. The aspect ratio of the picture switches to 4:3.

2 Press WIDE SELECT to select the

desired screen aspect ratio.

• If you record movies (MPEG MOVIE EX) in the 16:9 (wide) mode, black bands appear at the top and bottom of the picture when they are played back.

• For the number of recordable pictures, see page

52.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E: Still images will be fixed to image size [0.7M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [1.0M] ( ).

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: Still images will be fixed to image size [2.3M] ( ) in the 16:9 (wide) mode. In the 4:3 mode, you can select up to [3.0M] ( ).

* When viewing on the LCD screen. It may be

different in the viewfinder.

• Differences in the angle of view between 4:3 and 16:9 vary depending on the zoom position.

• If you play back a picture on TV, set [TV TYPE] for playback in the aspect ratio of the TV (p. 39).

Getting Started

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)

With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy viewing.

DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E:

Remove the lens cap (p. 14).

DCR-HC36E:

DCR-HC36E/ HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC94E/ HC96E

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.

Movies

1 Slide the POWER

switch E to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.

2 Press EASY A.

appears on the screen B.

3 Press REC START/STOP F (or

C) to start recording.*

60min

The indicator changes [STBY] to [REC].

To stop recording, press F again.

*1Movies are recorded in SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette.

Still images are recorded in [FINE] quality on a “Memory Stick Duo.”

EASY

REC

Still images (4:3)

1 Slide the POWER

switch E to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp.

2 Press EASY A.

appears on the screen B.

3 Press PHOTO D to record.*

3.0M

60min

EASY

Press and hold lightly

Flashing t Lit

to adjust the focus.

When disappears, the image has been recorded.

Press fully to record.

Playing back movies/still images

Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the buttons on the screen B as follows.

Movies

Touch , then touch

to start playback.

A Stop B Play/Pause toggles C Rewind/Fast forward

till images

Touch t /

to select a picture.

A Tape playback B Previous/Next C Delete (p. 76)

x To cancel Easy Handycam operation

Press EASY A again. disappears from the screen.

x Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam operation

Touch [MENU] to display adjustable menu settings. See page 41 for details on settings.

• Almost all the settings return to the default setting automatically (p. 42).

• is not displayed during Easy Handycam operation.

• Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add any effects or settings to the images. Almost all

the settings are returned to the previous status.

x Unavailable buttons during Easy Handycam

During Easy Handycam operation, the following buttons are unavailable, since the items are set automatically. [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation.] may appear if operations not available during Easy Handycam are attempted.

• BACK LIGHT button (p. 29)

• PHOTO button (in the CAMERA-TAPE mode) (p. 26)

• REC START/STOP button (in the CAMERA-MEMORY mode) (p. 26).

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

Pressing and holding DISP/BATT INFO button (p. 16)

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

WIDE SELECT button (in the CAMERA-MEMORY mode) (p. 22)

Recording/Playback

Recording

Lens cap (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E)

Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap.

Lens cover (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

Opens in accordance with the setting of the POWER switch.

PHOTO

DCR-HC36E:

REC START/STOP B

1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on

the respective lamp to select a recording medium.

POWER switch

REC START/STOP A

To record on a tape, light up the CAMERA-TAPE lamp. To record on a “Memory Stick Duo,” light up the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp.

2 Start recording.

Movies Still images

Press REC START/STOP A (or B).

60min

REC

The indicator (A) changes [STBY] (tape only) to [REC].

• The sound of a movie (MPEG MOVIE EX) recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” will be monaural.

To stop movie recording

Press REC START/STOP again.

• While recording movies on a tape, or while in standby mode, you can record a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo” by pressing PHOTO fully. Still images will be fixed to image size [0.2M] in 16:9 screen (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E), or [VGA (0.3M)] in 4:3 screen.

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.

Press and hold PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus (A), then press it

60min

fully (B).

3.0M

Flashing t Lit

A shutter sound is heard. When disappears, the image has been recorded.

To check the latest recording on a “Memory Stick Duo”

Touch . To delete the picture, touch

t [YES].

Playback

1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

2 Start playing back.

Movies Still images

On a Tape: Touch , then touch to start playback.

Touch .

The most recently recorded image is displayed.

AB C

Recording/Playback

P-MENU

A Stop B Play/Pause toggles as you touch it

• Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes.

C Rewind/Fast forward

On a “Memory Stick Duo”: Touch t / to select a picture with , then touch .

To adjust the volume

Touch t [VOLUME], then /

to adjust the volume.

• If you cannot find [VOLUME] in , touch [MENU] (p. 40).

To search for a scene during playback

Touch and hold / during playback (Picture Search), or / while fast forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip Scan).

• You can play back in various modes ([ VAR. SPD PB], p. 60).

To display pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” on the Index screen

A Tape playback B Previous/Next C Index screen display

• When a “Memory Stick Duo” is inserted, touch to display . is not displayed when an inserted “Memory Stick Duo” contains no image data.

Touch . Touch one of the pictures to back to the single display mode.

A Previous/Next 6 pictures B The picture displayed before switching to

the index screen.

C Movie icon

To view pictures in other folders, touch

t t [PB FOLDER], select a

folder with / , then touch (p. 55).

B C

Functions used for recording/playback, etc.

Recording

To use zoom ..................... 2 5

Move the power zoom lever 2 slightly for

For DCR-HC36E:

a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.

Wider range of view: (Wide angle)

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E:

5 4

For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

5 4

Close view: (Telephoto)

• You cannot change the zoom speed with the

zoom buttons 5 on the LCD frame.

• The minimum possible distance between

camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.

• You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 50) if you

want to zoom to a level greater than the following:

– 20 × (DCR-HC36E) – 12 × (DCR-HC44E/HC46E) – 10 × (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

• Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom

lever. If you move your finger off the power zoom lever, the operation sound of the power zoom lever may also be recorded.

To use the flash (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

.......................................... 7

Press (flash) repeatedly to select an appropriate setting.

No indication (Auto flash): Automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light.

(Forced flash): Always uses the flash

regardless of the surrounding brightness.

(No flash): Records without flash.

• The recommended distance to the subject when using the built-in flash is 0.3 to 2.5 m (1 to 8 feet).

• Remove any dust from the surface of the flash lamp before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if heat discoloration or dust obscures the lamp.

• The flash charge lamp flickers when charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge is complete (In the CAMERA-TAPE mode, it takes a while to fully charge the flash lamp).

• If you use the flash in bright places such as when shooting a backlit subject, the flash may not be effective.

• Attaching a conversion lens (optional) may create a shadow.

• You can change the brightness of the flash by setting [FLASH LEVEL], or you can prevent the redeye by setting [REDEYE REDUC], in [FLASH SET] (p. 48).

To record in dark places (NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E)

......................................... 3

Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch 3 to ON. ( and [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] appear.)

• To record an image brighter, use Super NightShot plus function (p. 48). To record an image more faithful to the original colors, use Color Slow Shutter function (p. 49).

• The NightShot plus and Super NightShot plus function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port 1 with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• Do not use these functions in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

• The NightShot and Super NightShot function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port 1 with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• Do not use these functions in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

To adjust the exposure for backlit

subjects (BACK LIGHT).............. 6

To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, press BACK LIGHT 6 to display .. To cancel the back light function, press BACK LIGHT again.

To adjust the focus for an off center

subject (SPOT FOCUS).............. 4

See [SPOT FOCUS] on page 47.

To fix the exposure for the selected

subject (Flexible spot meter) ...... 4

See [SPOT METER] on page 45.

Recording/Playback

To record in dark places (NightShot)

(DCR-HC94E/HC96E)................ 8

Set the NIGHTSHOT switch 8 to ON. ( and [“NIGHTSHOT”] appear.)

• To record an image brighter, use Super NightShot function (p. 49). To record an image brighter in color in dim light, use Color Slow Shutter function (p. 49).

Continued ,

Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (Continued)

To record in mirror mode........... qh

Open the LCD panel qh 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (2).

For DCR-HC36E:

qg qf

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

5 4

qg qf

• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded.

To use a tripod ....................... qj

Attach the tripod (optional: the length of the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)) to the tripod receptacle qj using a tripod screw.

To use a Shoulder belt .............. qs

Attach the Shoulder belt (optional) to its

designated hook qs.

Playback

To play back the images in sequence

(SLIDE SHOW)........................ 4

See [SLIDE SHOW] on page 56.

To use PB zoom ................. 2 5

You can magnify pictures from about 1.1 to 5 times the original size. Magnification can be adjusted with the power zoom lever 2 or the zoom buttons 5 on the LCD frame.

1 Play back the picture you want to

magnify.

2 Magnify the picture with T (Telephoto). 3 Touch the screen at the point you want

to display in the center of the displayed frame.

4 Adjust the magnification with W (Wide

angle)/T (Telephoto).

To cancel, touch [END].

• You cannot change the zoom speed with the

zoom buttons 5 on the LCD frame.

Recording/playback

To check the remaining battery

(Battery Info)......................... qd

Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/BATT INFO qd. The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. You can view the battery information for up to 20 seconds by pressing DISP/BATT INFO again while the battery information is displayed.

Remaining battery (approx.)

Recording capacity (approx.)

To turn off the operation confirmation

beep (BEEP).......................... 4

See [BEEP] on page 64.

To use special effects .............. 4

See (PICT.APPLI.) menu on page 55.

Other part names and functions

I Remote sensor

Point the Remote Commander (p. 36) towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder.

J Recording lamp (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

The recording lamp lights up in red during recording (p. 64).

• The recording lamp flashes if the remaining

tape or battery power is low.

K Internal stereo microphone

For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: An Active Interface Shoe compatible microphone will take precedence when connected (p. 74).

O Speaker

Playback sound come out from the speaker.

• For how to adjust the volume, see page 27.

Recording/Playback

To initialize the settings

(RESET) ............................... qf

Press RESET qf to initialize all the settings, including the setting of the date and time. (Menu items customized on Personal Menu are not initialized.)

Indicators displayed during recording/playback

13245

81 90q

Recording movies

In the CAMERA-TAPE mode

A Remaining battery (approx.) B Recording mode (SP or LP) (61) C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or

[REC] (recording))

D Recording: Tape counter (hour:

minute: second) Playback: Tape counter (hour: minute: second)/Time code (hour: minute: second: frame)

E Recording capacity of the tape (approx.)

(64)

F END SEARCH/EDIT SEARCH/Rec

review display switch button (35)

G Personal Menu button (40)

In the CAMERA-MEMORY mode

Recording still images

60min

101

FINE

3.0M

P-MENU

7qs

H Recording folder (55) I Image size (22, 52) (DCR-HC44E/

HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)

J Quality ( or ) (52) K “Memory Stick Duo” indicator and the

number of images that can be recorded (approx.)

L Review button (26)

Data code during recording

The date/time during recording and the camera setting data will be recorded automatically. They do not appear on the screen during recording, but you can check them as [DATA CODE] during playback (p. 63).

A Recording folder (55) B Estimated recordable time C Movie size (54) D Recording start indicator

(appears for about 5 seconds)

E Review button (26)

B C

12qd45

1qg9qhq

( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded.

Viewing movies

On a tape

7qf

M Tape transport indicator N Video operation buttons (27)

On a “Memory Stick Duo”

A Data file name B Play/Pause button (27) C Previous/Next image button (27) D Image size (54) E Playing time F Previous/Next scene button

A movie file will be divided into a maximum of 60 scenes. The number of scenes divided depends on the length of the movie. After selecting a scene from which to start the playback, touch to play back.

0:00:00

Viewing still images

3.0M

MEMORY PLAY

wdwf

waw;

O Data file name P Picture number/Total number of

recorded pictures in the current playback folder

Q Playback folder (55)

R Previous/Next folder icon

The following indicators appear when the first or last picture of the current folder is displayed and when there are multiple folders on the same “Memory Stick Duo.”

Touch to move to the previous

folder. Touch to move to the next folder.

Touch / to move to either

the previous or the next folder.

S Image delete button (76) T Tape playback select button (27) U Previous/Next image button (27) V Index screen display button (27) W Image protection mark (77) X Print mark (77)

7ws

Recording/Playback

Continued ,

Indicators displayed during recording/playback (Continued)

( ) is a reference page.

Indicators when you made changes

You can use the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 17) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen.

• Some of the indicators may not appear when you use [DISP GUIDE].

Upper left Upper right

Bottom Center

Upper left

Indicator Meaning

AUDIO MODE (61)

Continuous photo

Flash light (48)

Upper right

Indicator Meaning

Slide show (56)

recording (51)

Self-timer recording (49)

WIDE SELECT (22, 50)

Interval photo recording (59)

Frame recording (58)

A/V t DV OUT (63, 93)

DV input (70)

DV output (67)

i.LINK connection (67, 70)

Zero set memory (36)

LCD backlight off (16)

Center

Indicator Meaning

Night Shot/NightShot plus (29)

Super NightShot/Super NightShot plus (48)

Color Slow Shutter (49)

PictBridge connecting (78)

E Z Warning (113)

Bottom

Indicator Meaning

AE SHIFT (47)

Picture effect (58)

Digital effect (56)

9 Manual focus (47)

n White balance (46)

PROGRAM AE (45)

Sharpness (47)

Backlight (29)

FLD/FRAME (52)

SteadyShot off (51)

Progressive recording (51)

Zebra (49)

Tele macro (48)

Flexible spot meter (45)/ EXPOSURE (46)

Panel off (56)

Other indicator

Indicator Meaning

Information (114)

Searching for the starting point

Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up (p. 26).

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)

[END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape.

Touch t .

END SEARCH

EXECUTING

Touch here to cancel the operation.

The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished.

• [END SEARCH] will not work correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.

• You can also select [END SEARCH] from the menu. When the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights up, select the [END SEARCH] short-cut in Personal Menu (p. 40).

0:00:00160min

CANCEL

Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)

You can search for the start point to start the next recording while viewing the pictures on the screen. The sound is not played back during the search.

1 Touch .

0:00:00STBY60min

Recording/Playback

EDIT

2 Touch and hold (to go

backward)/ (to go forward) and release it at the point where you want the recording to start.

Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)

You can view about 2 seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped the tape.

Touch t .

0:00:00STBY60min

EDIT

The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby.

Remote Commander

Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander.

Insulation sheet

1 q;

2 3

A PHOTO*

The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded onto the “Memory Stick Duo” as a still image.

(p. 26)

B SEARCH M. (p. 37)* C . >*

D Video control buttons (Rewind,

Playback, Fast-forward, Pause, Stop, Slow) (p. 27)

E ZERO SET MEMORY*

F Transmitter G REC START/STOP (p. 24, 26) H Power zoom (p. 28, 30) I DISPLAY (p. 17)

J Memory control buttons (Index*

, –/+,

Memory playback) (p. 27)

*1Not available during Easy Handycam operation

with the POWER switch is set to CAMERATAPE.

*2Not available during Easy Handycam

operation.

• Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. 31).

• To change the battery, see page 126.

Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)

1 During playback, press ZERO

SET MEMORY 5 at a point you want to locate later on.

The tape counter is reset to “0:00:00” and appears on the screen.

0:00:006 0min

P-MENU

If the tape counter is not displayed, press DISPLAY 9.

2 Press STOP 4 when you want to

stop playback.

3 Press mREW 4.

The tape stops automatically when the tape counter reaches “0:00:00.”

The tape counter returns to the time code display, and the zero set memory display disappears.

4 Press PLAY 4.

Playback starts from the point designated “0:00:00” on the tape counter.

To cancel the operation

Press ZERO SET MEMORY 5 again before rewinding.

• There may be a discrepancy of several seconds between the time code and the tape counter.

• Zero set memory will not function correctly if there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.

Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search)

You can locate the point where the recording date changes.

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

2 Press SEARCH M. 2.

To cancel the operation

Press STOP 4.

• The Date search will not function correctly when there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.

Recording/Playback

3 Press .(previous)/>(next)

3 to select a recording date.

min

0:00:00:00

DATE -01

SEACH

min

P.MENU

Playing the picture on a TV

You can connect your camcorder to the input jack of a TV or a VCR using the A/V connecting cable (1) or the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2). Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 9). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

DCR-HC36E:

A/V OUT jack

A/V OUT

: Signal flow

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

To S VIDEO jack

DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

A/V or A/V OUT jack

A/V

: Signal flow

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

To S VIDEO jack

VCR or TV

A A/V connecting cable (supplied)

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks (p. 80). Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup.

B A/V connecting cable with S

VIDEO (optional)

Connect the white and red plugs (left/right audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of an A/V connecting cable. In this case, the yellow (standard video) plug connection is not necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not output audio.

• You can display the time code on the TV screen by setting [DISP OUTPUT] to [V-OUT/ PANEL] (p. 64).

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Do not connect A/V connecting cable to both the Handycam Station and your camcorder at the same time, as image disturbance may occur.

When connecting your camcorder to a TV through a VCR

Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, etc.), if the VCR has an input selector.

To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3) (DCRHC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)

Change the aspect ratio of the image according to the screen size of your TV.

1 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn

on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

2 Touch t [MENU] t

(STANDARD SET) t [TV TYPE] t [16:9] or [4:3] t .

• When you set [TV TYPE] to [4:3], or when the picture’s aspect ratio switches between 16:9 and 4:3, the image may jitter.

• On some 4:3 TVs, the still image recorded in 4:3 aspect ratio may not appear in full screen. This is not a malfunction.

• When you play back a picture recorded in 16:9 aspect ratio on a 4:3 TV not compatible with the 16:9 signal, set [TV TYPE] to [4:3].

When your TV is monaural (Only one audio input jack)

Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR.

If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor (EUROCONNECTOR)

You need the 21-pin adaptor to connect your camcorder to a TV for viewing recorded images. This adaptor is designed for output use only. This output only adaptor is supplied with the DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E models with the label on the bottom panel but not with the DCR-HC36E model.

TV/VCR

Recording/Playback

Using the Menu

Using the menu items

Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page.

1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow

repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp.

CAMERA-TAPE lamp: settings on a tape

CAMERA-MEMORY lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo”

PLAY/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing

2 Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.

Unavailable items will be grayed out.

x To use the short-cuts of Personal Menu

On Personal Menu, short-cuts for frequently used menu items are added.

• You can customize Personal Menu as you like (p. 65).

1 Touch .

STBY

60min

TELE

1/3

MACRO

SPOT FOCUS

2 Touch the desired item.

If the desired item is not displayed on the screen, touch / until the item is displayed.

3 Select the desired setting, then touch .

x To use menu items

You can customize menu items that are not added to Personal Menu.

1234

60min

STBY

CAMERA SET

PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE

0:00:00

DISP GUIDE

EXPOSURE

FADE R

0:00:00

60min

STBY

ZEBRA

SELF-TIMER

DIGITAL ZOOM

STEADYSHOT

PROGRES. REC

FADE R

D.EFFECT

0:00:00

60min

STEADYSHOT: ON

0:00:00

STBY

60min

STEADYSHOT: OFF

0:00:00

STBY

1 Touch t [MENU].

The menu index screen appears.

2 Select the desired menu.

Touch / to select the item, then touch . (The process in step 3 is the same as that in step 2.)

3 Select the desired item.

• You can also touch the item directly to select it.

4 Customize the item.

After finishing the settings, touch t (close) to hide the menu screen. If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.

x To use menu items during Easy Handycam operation

is not displayed during Easy Handycam operation (p. 24).

STBY

EASY

60min

1 Touch [MENU].

The menu index screen appears.

2 Select the desired menu. 3 Change your item setting.

After finishing the settings, touch . If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.

• Cancel Easy Handycam operation to use menu items normally (p. 25).

Using the Menu

Menu items

Available menu items (z) vary depending on which lamp is lit. During Easy Handycam operation, the following settings are

automatically applied (p. 24).

TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT Easy Handycam

CAMERA SET menu (p. 45)

PROGRAM AE zz – AUTO SPOT METER zz – EXPOSURE zz – WHITE BAL. zz – SHARPNESS*

zz – –

AUTO SHUTTER z –– AE SHIFT*

zz – OFF SPOT FOCUS zz – FOCUS zz – TELE MACRO zz – FLASH SET* SUPER NSPLUS* SUPER NS*

zz – *8/OFF

z –– OFF

NS LIGHT zz – COLOR SLOW S z –– ZEBRA*

zz – OFF SELF-TIMER zz – DIGITAL ZOOM z –– OFF WIDE SELECT*

z –– 4:3 STEADYSHOT z –– PROGRES.REC*

z –– OFF

MEMORY SET menu (p. 51)

STILL SET – zz

MOVIE SET – zz –

ALL ERASE – – z

FORMAT – zz FILE NO. – zz NEW FOLDER – zz REC FOLDER – zz PB FOLDER – – z –*

– AUTO AUTO

– AUTO

OFF

OFF*5/FINE/z*5/

FIELD*

–

SERIES

–

–*

TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT Easy Handycam

PICT.APPLI. menu (p. 55)

FADER z –– OFF SLIDE SHOW – – z D. EFFECT z – z PICT. EFFECT z – z FRAME REC* SMTH INT.REC*

z –– OFF z –– –

INT.REC-STL – z – DEMO MODE z –– PictBridge PRINT – – z USB SELECT – – z

EDIT/PLAY menu (p. 60)

VAR. SPD PB – – z REC CTRL*

AUD DUB CTRL – – z

REC MOVIE – – z BURN DVD – – z BURN VCD – – z END SEARCH z – z

*1DCR-HC94E/HC96E

DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC36E

DCR-HC96E

DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E

DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E

Cannot be operated in the CAMERA-TAPE mode.

The setting value before entering Easy Handycam operation will be retained.

––z –

– OFF OFF

OFF

–

Using the Menu

Continued ,

Menu items (Continued)

TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT Easy Handycam

STANDARD SET menu (p. 61)

REC MODE z – z* AUDIO MODE z – z* VOLUME – – z MULTI-SOUND – – z AUDIO MIX – – z

LCD/VF SET zzz

A/V t DV OUT* VIDEO INPUT* TV TYPE*

––z OFF ––z –*

zzz –* USB CAMERA z –– OFF DISP GUIDE zzz GUIDEFRAME*

zz – OFF DATA CODE – – z

REMAINING z – z

REMOTE CTRL zzz REC LAMP*

zz – ON BEEP zzz DISP OUTPUT zzz MENU ROTATE zzz A.SHUT OFF zzz CALIBRATION – – z

TIME/LANGU. menu (p. 65)

CLOCK SET zzz z WORLD TIME zzz LANGUAGE zzz –*

*1DCR-HC94E/HC96E

DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC36E

DCR-HC96E

DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E

DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E

Cannot be operated in the CAMERA-TAPE mode.

The setting value before entering Easy Handycam operation will be retained.

12BIT

STEREO

–

– /NORMAL/ – /

NORMAL/ –*

AUTO

LCD PANEL

–

5 min

–

–*

CAMERA SET menu

Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)

The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.

BEACH&SKI*( )

Select to prevent people’s faces from appearing dark in strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or on a ski slope.

PROGRAM AE

You can record pictures effectively in various situations with the PROGRAM AE function.

B AUTO

Select to automatically record pictures effectively without the [PROGRAM AE] function.

SPOTLIGHT*( )

Select to prevent people’s faces from appearing excessively white when subjects are lit by strong light.

PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( )

Select to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.

SPORTS* (Sports lesson) ( )

Select to minimize shake when shooting fast moving subjects.

SUNSET&MOON**( )

Select to maintain the atmosphere of situations such as sunsets, general night views or fireworks.

LANDSCAPE**( )

Select to shoot distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows that comes in between the camcorder and the subject.

• Items with one asterisk (*) can be adjusted

to focus on subjects only a short distance away. Items with two asterisks (**) can be adjusted to focus on subjects farther away.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)

You can adjust and fix the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded in suitable brightness even when there is strong contrast between the subject and the background, such as subjects in the spotlight on stage.

Using the Menu

Continued ,

CAMERA SET menu (Continued)

1 Touch the point where you want to fix and

adjust the exposure on the screen.

appears.

2 Touch [END].

To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] t [END].

• If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

EXPOSURE

You can fix the brightness of a picture manually. When recording indoors on a clear day, for instance, you can avoid backlight shadows on people next to the window by fixing the exposure to that of the wall side of the room.

1 Touch [MANUAL].

appears.

2 Adjust the exposure by touching /

3 Touch .

To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] t .

• You can adjust [EXPOSURE] and [FADER] while using the viewfinder by having the LCD panel rotated 180 degrees and closed with the screen facing out (p. 55).

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

WHITE BAL. (White balance)

You can adjust the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.

B AUTO

The white balance is adjusted automatically.

OUTDOOR ( )

The white balance is adjusted to be appropriate for the following recording conditions:

– Outdoors – Night views, neon signs and fireworks – Sunrise or sunset – Under daylight fluorescent lamps

INDOOR (n)

The white balance is adjusted to be appropriate for the following recording conditions:

– Indoors – At party scenes or studios where the lighting

conditions change quickly

– Under video lamps in a studio, or under

sodium lamps or incandescent-like color lamps

ONE PUSH ( )

The white balance will be adjusted according to the ambient light.

1 Touch [ONE PUSH]. 2 Frame a white object such as a piece of

paper, to fill the screen under the same lighting conditions as you will shoot the subject.

3 Touch [ ].

flashes quickly. When the white balance has been adjusted and stored in the memory, the indicator stops flashing.

• Do not shake your camcorder while

is flashing quickly.

• flashes slowly if white balance

could not be set.

• If keeps flashing even after you

have touched , set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO].

• If you have changed the battery pack while [AUTO] is selected, taken your camcorder outdoors or brought it indoors after outside use while using fixed exposure, select [AUTO] and aim your camcorder at a nearby white object for about 10 seconds for better color balance adjustment.

• Redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure if you change the [PROGRAM AE] settings, or bring your

camcorder outdoors from inside the house, or vice versa.

• Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

SHARPNESS (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can adjust the sharpness of the image outline with / . appears when the sharpness is anything other than the default setting.

Soften Sharpen

2 Touch [END].

To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] t [END] in step 1.

• If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

FOCUS

You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus on a certain subject intentionally.

AUTO SHUTTER

Automatically activates the electronic shutter to adjust the shutter speed when recording in bright conditions if you set it to [ON] (the default setting).

AE SHIFT (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can adjust the exposure using (dark)/ (bright). and the setting value appear when [AE SHIFT] is set.

• Touch if the subject is white or the backlight is bright, or touch if the subject is black or the light is dim.

• You can adjust the automatic exposure level to brighter or darker when [EXPOSURE] is set to [AUTO].

SPOT FOCUS

You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located in the center of the screen.

1 Touch the subject on the screen.

9 appears.

1 Touch [MANUAL].

9 appears.

2 Touch (focusing on close subjects)/

(focusing on distant subjects) to sharpen the focus. appears when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and appears when the focus cannot be adjusted farther away.

3 Touch .

To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] t in step 1.

• It is easier to focus on the subject by moving the power zoom lever towards T (Telephoto) to adjust the focus, then towards W (Wide angle) to adjust the zoom for recording. When you want to record a subject at close range, move the power zoom lever to W (Wide angle), then adjust the focus.

• The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

Continued ,

Using the Menu

CAMERA SET menu (Continued)

TELE MACRO

This is useful to shoot small subjects, such as flowers or insects. You can blur out backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer. When you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON] ( ), the zoom (p. 28) moves to the top of the T (Telephoto) side automatically and allows for recording subjects at a close distance as follows: For DCR-HC36E: down to about 39 cm (15 3/8 in.). For DCR-HC44E/HC46E: down to about 35 cm (13 7/8 in.). For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: down to about 37 cm (14 5/8 in.).

To cancel, touch [OFF], or zoom to wideangle (W side).

• When recording a distant subject, focusing may be difficult and can take some time.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.

FLASH SET (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can set this function when you use the built-in flash or an external flash (optional) that is compatible with your camcorder.

x FLASH LEVEL

HIGH( )

Makes the flash level higher.

B NORMAL( )

LOW( )

Makes the flash level lower.

x REDEYE REDUC

You can prevent redeye by activating the flash before recording. Set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then press

(flash) (p. 28) repeatedly to select a

setting.

(Auto redeye reduction): Pre-flashes to reduce redeye before the flash automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light.

(Forced redeye reduction): Always uses

the flash and the redeye reducing pre-flash.

(No flash): Records without flash.

• The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other conditions.

SUPER NSPLUS (Super NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E)

The picture will be recorded at a maximum of 16 times the sensitivity of NightShot plus recording if you set [SUPER NSPLUS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch (p. 29) is also set to ON.

and [“SUPER NIGHTSHOT PLUS”]

appear on the screen.

To cancel the setting, set [SUPER NSPLUS] to [OFF] or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.

• Do not use NightShot plus/[SUPER NSPLUS] in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

• Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 29).

• Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down in this case.

SUPER NS (Super NightShot) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

The picture will be recorded at a maximum of 16 times the sensitivity of NightShot recording if you set [SUPER NS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 29) is also set to ON.

and [“SUPER NIGHTSHOT”] appear

on the screen.

To cancel the setting, set [SUPER NS] to [OFF] or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.

• Do not use NightShot/[SUPER NS] in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

• Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 29).

• Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down in this case.

NS LIGHT (NightShot Light)

You can record clearer pictures by setting [NS LIGHT], which emits infrared light (invisible), to [ON] (the default setting) using either of the functions below:

– For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E:

NightShot plus or [SUPER NSPLUS] (p. 29).

– For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

NightShot or [SUPER NS] (p. 48).

• Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 29).

• Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached (p. 29).

• The maximum shooting distance using [NS LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).

• For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E: If you record subjects in dark places, such as night scenes or in moonlight, set [NS LIGHT] to [OFF]. You can make the image color deeper this way.

COLOR SLOW S (Color Slow Shutter)

When you set [COLOR SLOW S] to [ON], you can record an image brighter in color even in dark places.

and [COLOR SLOW SHUTTER]

appear on the screen.

To cancel [COLOR SLOW S], touch [OFF].

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 47) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down at this time.

ZEBRA (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

This is useful as a guide when adjusting the brightness. When you change the default setting, is displayed. The zebra pattern is not recorded.

B OFF

The zebra pattern is not displayed.

The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 70 IRE.

100

The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 100 IRE or higher.

• Portions of the screen where brightness is about 100 IRE or above may appear overexposed.

• The zebra pattern is diagonal stripes that appear in portions of the screen where brightness is at a preset level.

SELF-TIMER

When you set [SELF-TIMER] to [ON] ( ), the self-timer starts recording in about 10 seconds after pressing REC START/ STOP to record the movie, or PHOTO to record still images. To cancel the count down, touch [RESET].

Using the Menu

Continued ,

CAMERA SET menu (Continued)

To cancel [SELF-TIMER], touch [OFF].

• You can also set the self-timer with the REC START/STOP button or PHOTO button of the Remote Commander (p. 36).

DIGITAL ZOOM

You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 20 × (DCR-HC36E)/12 × (DCRHC44E/HC46E)/10 × (DCR-HC94E/ HC96E) (the default setting) while recording on a tape. Note that the image quality decreases when you are using the digital zoom.

The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming factor. The zooming zone appears when you select the zooming level.

For DCR-HC36E:

B OFF

Up to 20 × zoom is performed optically.

40 ×

Up to 20 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 40 × zoom is performed digitally.

800 ×

Up to 20 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 800 × zoom is performed digitally.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E:

B OFF

Up to 12 × zoom is performed optically.

24 ×

Up to 12 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 24 × zoom is performed digitally.

800 ×

Up to 12 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 800 × zoom is performed digitally.

For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

B OFF

Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically.

20 ×

Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 20 × zoom is performed digitally.

120 ×

Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 120 × zoom is performed digitally.

WIDE SELECT (DCR-HC36E)

You can record a picture in a ratio suitable for the screen on which it will be displayed. Refer also to the operating instructions supplied with your TV for details.

B 4:3

Standard setting (to record pictures to be played back on a 4:3 TV).

16:9 WIDE ( )

Records pictures to be played back on a 16:9 wide TV in full screen mode.

When viewed on the LCD screen/ viewfinder with [16:9 WIDE] selected.

When viewed on a 16:9 wide screen TV*

When viewed on a standard TV*

*1Picture appears in full screen mode when the

wide-screen TV switches to full mode.

Played in 4:3 mode. When you play a picture in

the wide mode, it appears as you have seen on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.

STEADYSHOT

You can compensate for camera shake (the default setting is [ON]). Set [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (optional) or the conversion lens (optional), then the image becomes natural.

PROGRES.REC (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can reduce image blur when recording moving pictures on tapes, intended for import to your computer as still images, by setting [PROGRES.REC] to [ON] ( ). This is especially useful for analyzing highspeed action, such as sports scenes.

To cancel [PROGRES.REC], touch [OFF].

Note on the progressive recording mode

In a normal TV broadcast, the screen is divided into 2 finer fields and these are displayed in turn, every 1/50 of a second. Thus, the actual picture displayed in an instant covers only half of the apparent picture area. In progressive recording, the picture is fully displayed with all the pixels. A picture recorded in this mode appears clearer, but a moving subject may appear awkward.

• When recording under fluorescent light or a light bulb, the screen may flicker. Touch [OFF] to return to the normal recording.

MEMORY SET menu

Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/ NEW FOLDER, etc.)

The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.

STILL SET

x BURST (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/

HC96E)

You can record several still images one after another by pressing PHOTO.

B OFF

Select this when not recording continuously.

NORMAL ( )

Records still images continuously at about

0.5 seconds intervals. The maximum number of images are

recorded when you press and hold PHOTO fully.

In 4:3 aspect ratio

DCR- 3.0M 1.9M 1.0M VGA

HC44E/ HC46E

HC94E/ HC96E

In 16:9 aspect ratio

DCR- 2.3M 0.7M

HC44E/HC46E – 4

HC94E/HC96E 3 –

HIGH SPEED ( ) (DCR-HC94E/ HC96E)

Record up to 32 images (VGA image sizes) continuously at about 0.07 second intervals.

EXP. BRKTG ( )

Records 3 images consecutively with different exposures at about 0.5 second intervals. You can compare the 3 images

––413

34–21

Using the Menu

Continued ,

MEMORY SET menu (Continued)

and select an image recorded at the best exposure.

• [BURST] can be set only when the POWER

switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY.

• [BURST] cannot be set during Easy Handycam

operation.

• The maximum number of images will be

recorded in the self-timer mode or when you are operating with the Remote Commander.

• [EXP. BRKTG] will not function when there is

space of less than 3 images remaining on the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

The flash will not function during [BURST].

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

The images may flicker or discolor when you select [HIGH SPEED].

x QUALITY

B FINE ( )

Records still images at the fine image quality level.

STANDARD ( )

Records still images at the standard image quality level.

• Image quality is automatically fixed to [FINE]

during Easy Handycam operation.

x IMAGE SIZE (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/

HC94E/HC96E)

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E:

B 1.0M ( )

Allows you to record more still images in relatively clear quality.

VGA (0.3M) ( )

Allows for the maximum number of images to be recorded.

For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

B 3.0M ( )

Records still images clearly.

1.9M ( )

Allows you to record more still images in relatively clear quality.

VGA (0.3M) ( )

Allows for the maximum number of images to be recorded.

• If you set a screen ratio of 16:9 (wide), [IMAGE SIZE] is fixed to [0.7M] (DCR-HC44E/ HC46E)/[2.3M] (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) automatically (p. 22).

• [IMAGE SIZE] can be set only when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY.

x FLD/FRAME (DCR-HC36E)

B FIELD

To record moving subjects correcting jitter (p. 26).

FRAME ( )

To record stationary subjects in high quality.

Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo” (MB) and the number of recordable pictures

In 4:3 aspect ratio

3.0M*1

1.9M*1

1.0M*2

(2016 ×

1512)

16MB 10

32MB 20

64MB 40

9865150

128MB 82

195

256MB 145

355

512MB 300

720

1GB 610

1450

2GB 1250

3000

*1DCR-HC94E/HC96E

(1600 ×

1200)

16 37

32 7561150

130 300

235 540

480

1100

980

2250

2000 4650

(1152 ×

864)

120 300

245 600

445

1000

900

2050

1800 4200

3750 8600

VGA (640 ×

480)

307496

240

190 485

390 980

780

1970

1400 3550

2850 7200

5900

14500

12000 30000

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

• All numbers measured at the following setting: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality.

• When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment.

• For DCR-HC36E: When recording still images, the size is always fixed to VGA (640 × 480).

In 16:9 aspect ratio (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E)

2.3M*1 (2016 ×

1134)

16MB 13

32MB 27

64MB 54

128MB 105

256MB 195

512MB 400

1GB 820

2GB 1650

*1DCR-HC94E/HC96E

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

If you record a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo” with the POWER switch set to CAMERA-TAPE, [IMAGE SIZE] is automatically fixed at [0.2M]. You cannot select [0.2M] for the image size in [STILL SET].

• All numbers measured at the following setting: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality.

0.7M*2 (1152 ×

648)

6581190

130

260

470

960

1950

4000

4096115

160 390

320 780

590

1400

1200 2850

2450 5900

5000

12000

0.2M*3 (640 ×

360)

1970

1750 3550

3600 7200

7300

14500

15000 30000

240

240 485

490 980

980

• When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment.

Approximate data size of a picture (kB)

4:3 picture

380 160

500 210

Continued ,

0.2M*

130

VGA

150

3.0M*11.9M*11.0M*

1540

640

• For DCR-HC36E: When recording still images, the size is always fixed to VGA (640 × 480).

960 420

16:9 picture (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E)

2.3M*

0.7M*

1150

480

*1DCR-HC94E/HC96E

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

If you record a still image on a “Memory Stick

Duo” with the POWER switch set to CAMERA-TAPE, [IMAGE SIZE] is automatically fixed at [0.2M]. You cannot select [0.2M] for the image size in [STILL SET].

• Data sizes measured at the following settings: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality.

Using the Menu

MEMORY SET menu (Continued)

MOVIE SET

x IMAGE SIZE

B 320 × 240 ( )

Records movies in high resolution.

160 × 112 ( )

Allows for more movie recording time.

Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo” (MB) and the recordable time (hour: minute: second)

320 × 240 160 × 112

16MB 00:02:40 00:10:40

32MB 00:05:20 00:21:20

64MB 00:10:40 00:42:40

128MB 00:21:20 01:25:20

256MB 00:42:40 02:50:40

512MB 01:25:20 05:41:20

1GB 02:50:40 11:22:40

2GB 05:41:20 22:45:20

• When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The recordable time varies depending on the recording environment.

ALL ERASE

Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” without image protection, or in the selected folder.

1 Select [ALL FILES] or [CURRENT

FOLDER]. [ALL FILES]: Deletes all the images on

the “Memory Stick Duo.” [CURRENT FOLDER]: Deletes all the

images in the selected folder.

2 Touch [YES] twice t .

• Cancel image protection on the “Memory Stick Duo” beforehand when using the “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab (p. 120).

• The folder will not be deleted even when you delete all the pictures in the folder.

• Do not do any of the following while [ Erasing all data...] is displayed:

– Operate the POWER switch/operation

buttons.

– Eject the “Memory Stick Duo.”

FORMAT

The “Memory Stick Duo” has been formatted at the factory, and does not require formatting.

To execute formatting, touch [YES] twice t . Formatting is completed, and all the images will be deleted.

• Do not do any of the following while [ Formatting…] is displayed:

– Operate the POWER switch/operation

buttons.

– Eject the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• Formatting erases everything on the “Memory Stick Duo” including protected image data and newly created folders.

FILE NO.

B SERIES

Assigns file numbers in sequence even if the “Memory Stick Duo” is replaced with another one. The file number is reset when a new folder is created or the recording folder is replaced with another.

RESET

Resets the file number to 0001 each time the “Memory Stick Duo” is changed.

NEW FOLDER

You can create a new folder (102MSDCF to 999MSDCF) on a “Memory Stick Duo.” When 9,999 images are stored in the current folder, a new folder is automatically created for storing subsequent images.

Touch [YES] t .

• You cannot delete the created folders using your camcorder. You will have to format the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 54), or delete them using your computer.

• The number of recordable pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” may decrease as the number of folders increases.

REC FOLDER (Recording folder)

Select the folder to be used for recording with / , then touch .

• As the default setting, pictures are saved in the 101MSDCF folder.

• Once you record a picture in a folder, the same folder will be set as the default folder for playback.

PB FOLDER (Playback folder)

Select the playback folder with / , then touch .

PICT.APPLI. menu

Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (SLIDE SHOW/PICT. EFFECT/FRAME REC, etc.)

The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.

FADER

You can add the following effects to currently recording pictures.

1 Select the desired effect in standby mode

(to fade in) or recording mode (to fade out), then touch .

When [OVERLAP], [WIPE] or [DOT FADER] is selected, the screen turns to blue while storing the image, then the image on a tape is stored as a still image.

2 Press REC START/STOP.

The fader indicator stops flashing and disappears when the fade is complete.

To cancel [FADER] before starting the operation, touch [OFF] in step 1.

• If you press REC START/STOP once, the setting is canceled.

STBY REC

Fading out Fading in

WHITE FADER

Using the Menu

BLACK FADER

MOSAIC FADER

MONOTONE

When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black and white to color. When fading out, it gradually changes from color to black and white.

Continued ,

PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued)

OVERLAP (fade in only)

WIPE (fade in only)

DOT FADER (fade in only)

Using the viewfinder

You can adjust [EXPOSURE] and [FADER] while using the viewfinder by having the LCD panel rotated 180 degrees and closed with the screen facing out.

1 Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE or the

CAMERA-MEMORY lamp lights up.

2 Close the LCD panel with the screen facing

out.

appears.

3 Touch .

[Set LCD off?] appears on the screen.

4 Touch [YES].

The LCD screen is turned off.

5 Touch the LCD screen while checking the

display in the viewfinder. [EXPOSURE], etc. are displayed.

6 Touch the button you want to set.

[EXPOSURE]: Adjust with / , and touch .

[FADER]: Touch it repeatedly to select a desired effect (only while the CAMERATAPE lamp lights up).

: The LCD screen lights up.

To hide the buttons, touch .

SLIDE SHOW

Plays back the images stored on a “Memory Stick Duo,” or in a folder in sequence (slide show).

2 Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRENT

FOLDER ( )], then touch . If you select [CURRENT FOLDER ( )],

all the images in the current playback folder selected in [PB FOLDER] (p. 55) are played back in sequence.

3 Touch [REPEAT]. 4 Select [ON] or [OFF], then .

To repeat the slide show, select [ON] ().

To execute the slide show only once, select [OFF].

5 Touch [END] t [START].

To cancel [SLIDE SHOW], touch [END]. To pause, touch [PAUSE].

• You can select the first picture for the slide

show with / before touching [START].

• If movies are played in the slide show, you can

adjust the volume with / .

D. EFFECT (Digital effect)

You can add digital effects to your recordings.

1 Touch the desired effect.

When you select [STILL] or [LUMI.KEY], the image is saved as a still image.

2 Adjust the effect with / , then

touch .

Effect Items to adjust

CINEMA

1*2

EFECT*

DELAY MOTION*

STILL The degree of

FLASH The interval of frame-by-

No adjustment necessary.

The speed of repeats.

transparency of the still image you want to superimpose under a movie.

frame playback.

1 Touch t [PB FOLDER].

Effect Items to adjust

LUMI. KEY The color scheme of the

area in the still image which is to be swapped with a movie.

TRAIL The fade time of the

incidental image.

SLOW SHUTTR*

OLD MOVIE*

*1Available during recording on a tape only.

DCR-HC94E/HC96E

Shutter speed (1 is 1/25, 2

is 1/12, 3 is 1/6, 4 is 1/3).

No adjustment necessary.

3 Touch .

appears.

To cancel [D. EFFECT], touch [OFF] in step 1.

B OFF

Does not use [D. EFFECT] setting.

CINEMA EFECT (Cinematic effect) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can add a cinematic atmosphere to pictures by adjusting to a 16:9 screen and progressive picture.

DELAY MOTION (Delay motion) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can record a movie with a repeat effect.

STILL

Records a movie while superimposing it on a previously memorized still image.

FLASH (flash motion)

Records a movie with a serial-still-image effect (strobe effect).

LUMI. KEY (luminance key)

Replaces a brighter area in a previously memorized still image (e.g. background of a person) with a movie.

TRAIL

Records a picture so that an incidental image like a trail is left.

SLOW SHUTTR (slow shutter)

The shutter speed is slowed down. Suitable for shooting a subject more clearly in a dark place.

• Adjust the focus manually using a tripod (optional) since adjusting the focus automatically is hard when [SLOW SHUTTR] is selected. ([FOCUS], p. 47)

OLD MOVIE

Adds an old movie effect with a sepia hue to pictures.

• You cannot record playback pictures edited using special effects on the tape in your camcorder.

• You can save pictures edited using special effects on a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 73) or record them on another VCR/DVD device, etc. (p. 67).

• You cannot output playback pictures edited with digital effects via the DV Interface (i.LINK).

• For DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E: You cannot add effects to externally input pictures.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: You cannot select 16:9/4:3 as the aspect ratio for [OLD MOVIE].

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: You cannot change to another digital effect while recording pictures on a tape with [CINEMA EFECT] selected.

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: The digital effect function is suspended while using zoom with [DELAY MOTION] selected.

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: It is recommended that you mount your camcorder on a tripod (optional) when you select [DELAY MOTION].

Using the Menu

Continued ,

PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued)

PICT. EFFECT (Picture effect)

You can add special effects to a picture during recording or playback. appears.

B OFF

Does not use [PICT. EFFECT] setting.

NEG.ART

The color and brightness are reversed.

SEPIA

Pictures appear in sepia.

B&W

Pictures appear in black and white.

SOLARIZE

Pictures appear as an illustration with strong contrast.

PASTEL*

Pictures appear as a pale pastel drawing.

MOSAIC*

Pictures appear mosaic-patterned.

* Not available during playback.

• You can save pictures edited using special effects on a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 73) or record them on another VCR/DVD device, etc. (p. 67).

• You cannot output playback pictures edited with picture effects via the DV Interface (i.LINK).

• For DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E: You cannot add effects to externally input pictures.

FRAME REC (Frame recording) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can record pictures with a stop-motion animated effect by alternately frame recording and then moving the subject a little. After steadying your camcorder, use the Remote Commander to prevent camera shake.

1 Touch [ON] ( ) t t . 2 Press REC START/STOP.

A picture (approximately 5 frames) is recorded, and your camcorder enters the standby mode.

3 Move the subject and repeat step 2.

To cancel [FRAME REC], touch [OFF] in step 1.

• The remaining tape time will not be indicated correctly.

• The last scene will be longer than other scenes.

SMTH INT.REC (Smooth interval tape recording) (DCR-HC44E/ HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)

Your camcorder will shoot 1 frame of the picture at a selected interval and keep them in memory until it has stored several frames. This function is useful to observe the movement of clouds or the changes of daylight. These pictures appear smooth when played back. Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation.

[a]: Recording [b]: Interval

1 Touch t / to select a

desired interval time (1 to 120 seconds) t

2 Touch [REC START].

Recording starts and z changes to red.

To interrupt, touch [REC STOP] in step 2. To resume, touch [REC START]. To cancel, touch [REC STOP], then [END] in step 2.

• During Smooth interval recording, your camcorder may perform the END SEARCH function to locate the end in current recordings on the tape after several frames have been recorded.

• Do not turn off the power or disconnect the power source while a message is displayed on the screen.

• The camcorder will shoot several frames for the first and last shots of the Smooth interval recording.

• Smooth interval recording is released when approximately 12 hours have elapsed after shooting has begun.

• Sounds are not recorded.

• The last few frames may not be recorded if the battery or tape has run out.

• There may be discrepancies in the interval.

• If you adjust the focus manually, you can record clear pictures even if the light changes ([FOCUS], p. 47).

• You can silence the recording beep by setting of [BEEP] (p. 64).

INT.REC-STL (Interval photo recording)

You can record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” at a selected interval. This function is useful to observe the movement of clouds or the changes in daylight, etc.

[a]: Recording [b]: Interval

1 Touch t a desired interval time (1, 5

or 10 minutes) t t [ON] ( ) t

t .

2 Press PHOTO fully.

stops flashing and the interval still

image recording starts.

To cancel [INT.REC-STL], select [OFF] in step 1.

DEMO MODE

The default setting is [ON], allowing you to view the demonstration in about 10 minutes, after you have removed both a cassette and a “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder, and slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERATAPE lamp.

• The demonstration will be suspended in situations such as those described below.

– When you touch the screen during the

demonstration. (The demonstration starts again after about 10 minutes.)

– When a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” is

inserted.

– When the POWER switch is set to other than

CAMERA-TAPE.

PictBridge PRINT

See page 78.

USB SELECT

You can connect the camcorder to a personal computer with a USB cable and view pictures on the computer. You can also connect the camcorder to a PictBridgecompatible printer (p. 78) using this function. Refer to “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM for details.

Memory Stick

Select this to view pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” on the computer or to import them to the computer.

PictBridge PRINT

Select this when you connect the camcorder to a PictBridge-compatible printer to print out directly (p. 78).

Continued ,

Using the Menu

PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued)

STREAM

Select this to view movies on a tape on the computer or to import them to the computer.

BURN VCD

Select this to burn the picture recorded on the tape onto a CD-R. Refer to “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM for details (p. 89).

• During Easy Handycam operation, [ STREAM] and [BURN VCD] cannot be set.

EDIT/PLAY menu

Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/END SEARCH, etc.)

The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.

VAR.SPD PB

(Various speed playback)

You can play back in various modes while viewing movies.

1 Touch the following buttons during

playback.

To Touch

change the playback direction*

play back slowly** To reverse direction:

(frame)

(frame) t

play back 2 times faster (double speed)

play back frame by frame

* Horizontal lines may appear at the top,

bottom, or in the center of the screen. This is not a malfunction.

**Pictures output from the DV Interface

(i.LINK) cannot be played back smoothly in slow mode.

2 Touch t .

(double speed)

To reverse direction:

(frame) t

(double speed)

(frame) during playback pause. To reverse direction:

(frame) during frame playback.

To return to the normal playback mode, touch (Play/Pause) twice (once from frame playback).

• You will not hear the recorded sound. You may see mosaic-like images of the previously played picture.

STANDARD SET

Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/ LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT, etc.)

REC CTRL (Movie recording control) (DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E)

See page 72.

AUD DUB CTRL (Audio dubbing)

See page 75.

REC MOVIE (Recording control)

See page 73.

BURN DVD

When your camcorder is connected to a Sony VAIO series personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the tape on a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) (p. 90).

BURN VCD

When your camcorder is connected to a personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the tape on a CD-R (Direct Access to Video CD Burn). See “First Step Guide” in the supplied CDROM for details (p. 89).

END SEARCH

EXEC

The most recently recorded picture is played back for about 5 seconds and then stops automatically.

CANCEL

Stops [END SEARCH].

• After ejecting the cassette, the END SEARCH function is not available.

The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.

REC MODE (Recording mode)

B SP (SP)

Records in the SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette.

LP (LP)

Increases the recording time to 1.5 times the SP mode (Long Play).

• If you record in the LP mode, a mosaic-like noise may appear or sound may be interrupted when you play back the tape on other camcorders or VCRs.

• When you mix recordings in the SP mode and in the LP mode on one tape, the playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly between the scenes.

AUDIO MODE

B 12BIT

Records in the 12-bit mode (2 stereo sounds).

16BIT ( )

Records in the 16-bit mode (1 stereo sound with high quality).

VOLUME

See page 27.

MULTI-SOUND

You can select whether to play back audio recorded using other devices with dual sound or stereo sound.

Using the Menu

Continued ,

STANDARD SET menu (Continued)

B STEREO

Plays back with main and sub sound (or stereo sound).

Plays back with main sound (or the left channel sound).

Plays back with sub sound (or the right channel sound).

• You can play back, but cannot record a dual sound track cassette on your camcorder.

• The setting returns to [STEREO] when you turn the power off for more than 12 hours.

AUDIO MIX

See page 76.

LCD/VF SET

The recorded picture will not be affected by this operation.

x LCD BRIGHT

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

1 Adjust the brightness with / . 2 Touch .

x LCD BL LEVEL

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen’s backlight.

B NORMAL

Standard brightness.

BRIGHT

Brightens the LCD screen.

• When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting.

• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording.

x LCD COLOR

You can adjust the color on the LCD screen with / .

Low intensity High intensity

x VF B.LIGHT

You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder.

B NORMAL

Standard brightness.

BRIGHT

Brightens the viewfinder screen.

• When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting.

• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording.

x WIDE DISPLAY (DCR-HC36E)

You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio picture appears in the viewfinder and the LCD screen by setting [WIDE SELECT] to [16:9 WIDE]. The recorded picture will not be affected by this operation.

B LETTER BOX

Normal setting (standard type of display)

SQUEZE (Squeeze)

Expands the picture vertically if black bands at the top and bottom in 16:9 aspect ratio are undesirable.

x VF WIDE DISP (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/

HC94E/HC96E)

You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio picture appears in the viewfinder.

B LETTER BOX

Normal setting (standard type of display)

SQUEZE (Squeeze)

Expands the picture vertically if black bands at the top and bottom in 16:9 aspect ratio are undesirable.

A/V t DV OUT (DCR-HC96E)

When you set [A/V t DV OUT] ( ) to [ON], you can convert analog signals to digital by connecting a digital device and an analog device to your camcorder. See page 93 for details.

VIDEO INPUT (DCR-HC96E)

Selects the video plug to connect when you input the picture from the other device via A/V connecting cable.

B VIDEO

Connects via video plug of the A/V connecting cable.

S VIDEO

Connects via S VIDEO plug of the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO cable.

TV TYPE (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E)

See page 39.

USB CAMERA

When you set [ STREAM] and connect your camcorder to your computer via the USB cable, you can view the picture your camcorder is currently seeing on your computer like a live camera. You can also import the picture to your computer. Refer to the “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM for details (p. 89).

DISP GUIDE

See page 17.

GUIDEFRAME (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

You can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical by setting [GUIDEFRAME] to [ON]. The frame is not recorded. Press DISP/BATT INFO to make the frame disappear.

• Pointing the subject at the cross point of the guide frame makes a balanced composition.

DATA CODE

During playback, displays information (data code) recorded automatically at the time of recording.

B OFF

Data code is not displayed.

DATE/TIME

Displays the date and time.

CAMERA DATA (below)

Displays camera setting data.

0:00:00:0060min

1 2

AUTO

6 5

ASteadyShot off BExposure CWhite balance DGain EShutter speed FAperture value

• Camera setting data does not appear when movies on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played back.

• The exposure adjustment value (0EV), a shutter speed, and the aperture value appear when still images on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played back.

• In the [DATE/TIME] data display, the date and time are displayed in the same area. If you record a picture without setting the clock, [-- -- -

---] and [--:--:--] will appear.

AWB100

9dBF1. 8

Continued ,

Using the Menu

STANDARD SET menu (Continued)

• During Easy Handycam operation, you can set [DATE/TIME] only.

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

appears for a picture recorded using a flash.

REMAINING

B AUTO

Displays the remaining tape indicator for about 8 seconds in situations such as those described below.

• When you set the POWER switch to PLAY/ EDIT or CAMERA-TAPE with a cassette inserted.

• When you touch (Play/Pause).

Always displays the remaining tape indicator.

REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)

The default setting is [ON], allowing you to use the supplied Remote Commander (p. 36).

• Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another VCR remote control unit.

REC LAMP (Recording lamp) (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

The camera recording lamp will not light up during recording when you set this to [OFF] (The default setting is [ON]) (p. 31).

BEEP

B ON

A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel.

OFF

Cancels the melody.

DISP OUTPUT

B LCD PANEL

Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder.

V-OUT/PANEL

Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfinder.

MENU ROTATE

B NORMAL

Scrolls the menu items downwards by touching .

OPPOSITE

Scrolls the menu items upwards by touching .

A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)

B 5 min

The camcorder is automatically turned off when you do not operate your camcorder for more than approximately 5 minutes.

NEVER

The camcorder is not automatically turned off.

• When you connect your camcorder to a wall socket, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to [NEVER].

CALIBRATION

See page 125.

TIME/LANGU.

(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE)

See page 40 for details on selecting menu items.

CLOCK SET

See page 19.

WORLD TIME

When using your camcorder abroad, you can set the time difference by touching

/ , the clock will be adjusted in accordance with the time difference. If you set the time difference to 0, the clock returns to the originally set time.

LANGUAGE

You can select the language to be used on the LCD screen.

• Your camcorder offers [ENG[SIMP]]

(simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue among the options.

Customizing Personal Menu

You can add desired menu items to any Personal Menu allocated to the lamp positions currently lit. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu.

Adding a menu item

You can add up to 28 menu items to each Personal Menu. Delete a less important menu item, if you want to add more.

1 Touch t [P-MENU SET UP]

t [ADD].

If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / .

0:00:0060min

CAMERA SET PICT. APPLI. EDIT/PLAY STANDARD SET TIME/LANGU.

PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE WHITE BAL. SHARPNESS

STBY

END

0:00:0060min

END

Select the category.

2 Touch / to select a menu

category, then touch .

Select the item.

Using the Menu

3 Touch / to select a menu

item, then touch t [YES] t

The menu item is added to the end of list.

Continued ,

Customizing Personal Menu (Continued)

Deleting a menu item

1 Touch t [P-MENU SET UP]

t [DELETE].

If the desired menu item is not

displayed, touch / .

60min

Select button to delete.

TELE

1/3

MACRO

SPOT FOCUS

STBY

DISP GUIDE

EXPOSURE

FADE R

0:00:00

END

2 Touch the menu item that you

want to delete.

0:00:0060min

DELETE

STBY

Delete this from

CAMERA-TAPE mode's

P-MENU?

YES NO

3 Touch [YES] t .

• You cannot delete [MENU] and [P-MENU SET UP].

Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu

1 Touch t [P-MENU SET UP]

t [SORT].

If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / .

2 Touch the menu item you want to

move.

3 Touch / to move the menu

item to the desired place.

4 Touch .

To sort more items, repeat steps 2 to 4.

5 Touch [END] t .

• You cannot move [P-MENU SET UP].

Initializing the Personal Menu settings (Reset)

Touch t [P-MENU SET UP] t [RESET] t [YES] t [YES] t .

If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / .

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc.

You can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (VCR/ DVD device, etc.). You can connect your camcorder to a VCR/DVD device, etc., using the A/V connecting cable (1), the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), or the i.LINK cable (3). Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 9). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

DCR-HC36E:

A/V OUT jack

AUDIO/

A/V OUT

VIDEO jacks

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

VCR/DVD device, etc.

Dubbing/Editing

: Signal flow

To S VIDEO jack

To DV Interface (i.LINK)

To i.LINK jack

Continued ,

Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc. (Continued)

DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

A/V or A/V OUT jack

AUDIO/VIDEO

A/V

jacks

(Yellow)

(White) (Red)

VCR/DVD device, etc.

To S VIDEO jack

To DV or DV OUT Interface (i.LINK)

: Signal flow

A A/V connecting cable (supplied)

B A/V connecting cable with S

VIDEO (optional)

When connecting to another device via the S VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable, pictures can be reproduced more faithfully than with the supplied A/V cable connection. Connect the white and red plugs (left/right audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of an A/V connecting cable. In this case, the yellow (standard video) plug connection is not necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not output audio.

C i.LINK cable (optional)

Use an i.LINK cable to connect your camcorder to another device equipped with an i.LINK jack. The video and audio signals are transmitted digitally, producing high quality pictures and sound. Note that you cannot output picture and sound separately.

• When you are connecting your camcorder to a monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video jack, and the red (right channel) or the white (left channel) plug to the audio jack on the VCR/TV.

• When you connect a device via an A/V connecting cable, set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (the default setting) (p. 64).

• While your camcorder is sending signals to another device via an i.LINK cable,

appears on the LCD screen on your

camcorder.

To i.LINK jack

1 Prepare your camcorder for

playback.

Insert the recorded cassette.

For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E: Set [TV TYPE] according to the playback device (TV, etc.) (p. 39).

2 Prepare your VCR/DVD device for

recording.

When dubbing to the VCR, insert a cassette for recording. When dubbing to the DVD recorder, insert a DVD for recording.

If your recording device has an input selector, set it to the appropriate input (such as video input1, video input2).

3 Connect your VCR/DVD device to

your camcorder as a recording device.

Connect your camcorder to the input jacks of a VCR or a DVD device.

4 Start playback on the camcorder,

and recording on the VCR/DVD device.

Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your recording device for details.

• The following cannot be output via the DV Interface (i.LINK):

– Indicators – Pictures edited using [PICT. EFFECT]

(p. 58), [D. EFFECT] (p. 56) or PB zoom (p. 30).

• When connected using an i.LINK cable, the recorded picture becomes rough when a picture is paused on your camcorder while recording to a VCR.

• When connected using an i.LINK cable, data code (date/time/camera settings data) may not be displayed or recorded depending on the device or application.

Dubbing/Editing

5 When dubbing is complete, stop

your camcorder and the VCR/DVD device.

• To record the date/time and camera settings data when connected by the A/V connecting cable, display them on the screen (p. 63, 64).

Recording pictures from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc. (DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E)

You can record pictures or TV programs from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc., on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo.” You can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder beforehand. You can connect your camcorder to a TV, VCR/DVD device, etc. or an i.LINK-compatible device using the A/V connecting cable (1), the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), or the i.LINK cable (3). Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 9). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.

• You cannot record pictures on your camcorder from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc. that does not have an

output jack.

• Your camcorder can only record from a PAL source. For example, French system video/broadcasts

(SECAM) will not be recorded correctly. See page 118 for details on TV color systems.

• If you use a 21-pin adaptor to input PAL source, you need a dual direction 21-pin adaptor (optional).

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

DCR-HC36E:

TV or VCR/DVD device, etc.

To i.LINK jack

To DV Interface (i.LINK)

: Signal flow

DCR-HC46E/HC96E:

A/V jack (DCR-HC96E)

A/V

AUDIO/VIDEO jacks

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

TV or VCR/ DVD device, etc.

To S VIDEO jack

To DV Interface (i.LINK)

: Signal flow

A For DCR-HC96E:

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup.

B For DCR-HC96E:

A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional)

C i.LINK cable (optional)

• While your camcorder is receiving signals from another device via an i.LINK cable,

appears on the LCD screen on your camcorder (This indicator may also appear on the connected device.).

• For DCR-HC96E: When you are connecting your camcorder to a monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video jack, and the red (right channel) or the white (left channel) plug to the audio jack on the VCR or the TV.

• For DCR-HC96E: When you connect a device via an A/V connecting cable, set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] (the default setting) (p. 64).

To i.LINK jack

Dubbing/Editing

Continued ,

Recording pictures from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc. (Continued)

Recording movies

1 Connect your TV or VCR/DVD

device to your camcorder as a playback device.

Connect your camcorder to the output jacks of a TV or VCR/DVD device.

2 If you are recording from a VCR/

DVD device, insert a cassette or a DVD.

3 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

4 Set your camcorder to recording

pause mode.

When recording on a tape, touch t [ REC CTRL] t [REC PAUSE].

When recording on a “Memory Stick Duo,” touch t [MENU] t

(EDIT/PLAY) t [ REC

MOVIE].

For DCR-HC96E: When connecting with an S VIDEO plug, touch t [MENU] t (STANDARD SET) t [VIDEO INPUT] t [S VIDEO].

5 When recording pictures from a

VCR/DVD device: Start playing the cassette or the disc on the VCR/DVD device.

When recording pictures from a TV: Select a TV program.

The picture played on the connected device appears on the LCD screen of your camcorder.

6 Touch [REC START] at the point

you want to start recording.

7 Stop recording.

When recording on a tape, touch (Stop) or [REC PAUSE].

When recording on a “Memory Stick Duo,” touch [REC STOP].

8 Touch t .

Recording still images

1 Perform steps 1 to 3 in

“Recording movies.”

2 Start playing the cassette or the

disc on the playback device, or select a TV program.

The pictures on the VCR/DVD device or TV appear on the screen of your camcorder.

3 Press PHOTO lightly at the scene

you want to record. Check the image and press it fully.

Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo”

You can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

2 Search and record the scene you

want to record.

When you dub pictures as a still image

Touch (Play) to play back the tape, then press PHOTO lightly at the scene you want to record. Check the image and press it fully.

When you dub pictures as a movie

Touch t [MENU] t (EDIT/PLAY) t [ REC MOVIE] t (Play) to play back the tape, then touch [REC START] at the point you want to start recording.

At the point you want to stop recording, touch [REC STOP]t (Stop) t

t .

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: The playback pictures edited using [DELAY MOTION] in [D. EFFECT] cannot be dubbed to a “Memory Stick Duo.”

Dubbing/Editing

• The date and time the picture is recorded on the tape and stored on the “Memory Stick Duo” are recorded. On your camcorder, the date and time the picture is recorded on the tape are displayed. Camera setting data recorded on the tape cannot be stored on the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• The sound is recorded in 32kHz monaural.

• For the recording time of movies, see page 54.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Still images will be fixed to image size [0.2M] when playing back the 16:9 picture, or [VGA (0.3M)] when playing back the 4:3 picture.

Dubbing sound to a recorded tape

You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 61) without erasing the original sound.

Connecting

A Active Interface Shoe

C Internal stereo microphone

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

: Signal flow

For DCR-HC96E: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup.

You can input audio in the following ways:

A For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

An external microphone (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe.

B For DCR-HC96E:

An audio device to the Handycam Station or your camcorder using the A/V connecting cable.

A/V

B A/V jack

Do not connect the video plug (Yellow).

Audio device (such as CD/MD players)

C Using the internal stereo microphone (no

connection required).

(White)

(Red)

AUDIO OUT

The audio input to be recorded takes precedence over others in the order of A t B t C. You cannot record additional audio:

– When the tape has been recorded in the 16-bit

mode (p. 61).

– When the tape has been recorded in the LP

mode.

– When your camcorder is connected via an

i.LINK cable.

– When the tape has been recorded in 4CH MIC

mode.

– On blank sections of the tape.

– When the tape has been recorded in a TV color

system other than that of your camcorder (p. 118).

– When the write-protect tab of the cassette is set

to SAVE (p. 119).

– On sections recorded in HDV format.

• The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device for fixing the installed external microphone (optional) securely. To connect, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To release, loosen the screw, and then slide it out while pressing down.

• When you are using the A/V jack (DCRHC96E) or the internal stereo microphone, the picture will not be output from the A/V jack. Check the picture on the LCD screen or the viewfinder.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

• For DCR-HC94E/HC96E: When you attach an external microphone (optional) to the Active Interface Shoe, you can check the picture and the sound by connecting your camcorder to a TV or other device using the A/V connecting cable. Sound you are recording is not output from your camcorder’s speaker. Check the sound using a TV or other device.

Recording sound

Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder beforehand.

3 Touch t [MENU] t

(EDIT/PLAY) t t [AUD DUB CTRL] t t [AUDIO DUB].

X appears.

AUD DUB CTRL

0:00:00:0060min

AUDIO

DUB

4 Touch (Play) and start

playing back the audio you want to record at the same time.

appears while recording the new sound in stereo 2 (ST2) during the playback of the tape.

5 Touch (Stop) when you want

to stop recording.

To dub on other scenes, repeat step 2 to select scenes, then touch [AUDIO DUB].

6 Touch t .

Dubbing/Editing

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

2 Touch (Play/Pause) to play

back the tape, then touch it again at the point where you want to start recording the sound.

• To set the end point for audio dubbing, beforehand, press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the scene at which you want to stop audio dubbing during playback. After step 2 to 4, the recording stops automatically at the selected scene.

• You can only record additional audio over a tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape recorded on other camcorders (including other DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E camcorders).

Continued ,

101

0001

min

MEMORY PLAY

Dubbing sound to a recorded tape (Continued)

To check the recorded sound

1 Play back the tape on which you have

recorded audio (p. 27).

2 Touch t [MENU] t

(STANDARD SET) t t [AUDIO MIX] t .

AUDIO MIX

0:00:00:0060min

Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo”

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

ST1

ST2

3 Touch / to adjust the balance of

the original sound (ST1) and the new sound (ST2), then touch .

• The original sound (ST1) is output at the default setting.

• Audio balance adjustment returns to the default setting after 12 hours of turning the power off.

2 Touch .

3.0M

2/10

MEMORY PLAY

P-MENU

6060min

60min

–0001

101

101–0002

101

3 Select a picture you want to

delete with / .

• To delete all pictures at once, select [ ALL ERASE] (p. 54).

4 Touch t [YES].

• The pictures cannot be restored once they are deleted.

• You can delete pictures on the index screen (p. 27). You can easily search for the picture to be deleted by displaying 6 pictures at once. Touch t [ DELETE] t the picture you want to delete t t [YES].

• Pictures cannot be deleted when a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab is set to the write-protect position (p. 120), or when the selected picture is protected (p. 77).

Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information

protection)

When you are using a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick Duo” is not set to the write-protect position (p. 120).

(Print mark/Image

• Do not mark images on your camcorder if the “Memory Stick Duo” already has some images with the Print mark put on using other devices. This may change the information of the images with the Print mark put on using the other device.

Selecting still images for printing (Print mark)

The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for printing on your camcorder. By marking images that you want to print out, you do not need to reselect them when you print them out. (You cannot specify the number of printouts.)

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

2 Touch t t t

[PRINT MARK].

3 Touch the image that you want to

print out later.

PRINT MARK

101–0002

2/10

101

appears.

4 Touch t [END].

Preventing accidental erasure (Image protection)

You can select and mark images to prevent accidental erasure.

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

2 Touch t t t

[PROTECT].

3 Touch the image that you want to

protect.

101–0002

PROTECT

2/10

101

appears.

4 Touch t [END].

• To cancel image protection, touch the image again to cancel image protection in step 3.

Dubbing/Editing

• To cancel Print mark, touch the image again to

cancel Print mark in step 3.

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant

PictBridge PRINT 101-0001

printer)

You can print out pictures using a PictBridge compliant printer without connecting the camcorder to a computer.

Connect the AC Adaptor to obtain power from the wall socket. Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” containing still images into your camcorder and turn on the printer.

Connecting your camcorder to the printer

1 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

• You can also operate by selecting in the

following orders: – Touch t [MENU] t

(PICT.APPLI.) t [USB SELECT] t [PictBridge PRINT]

– Touch t [MENU] t

(PICT.APPLI.) t [PictBridge PRINT]

• We cannot guarantee the operation of models

that are not PictBridge compatible.

Printing

1 Select the image to be printed

with / .

2 Touch t [COPIES].

2 Connect the (USB) jack of your

camcorder (DCR-HC36E) or the Handycam Station (DCR-HC44E/ HC46E/HC94E/HC96E) to the printer using the USB cable. [USB SELECT] appears on the screen automatically.

3 Touch [PictBridge PRINT].

When connection is complete, (PictBridge connecting) appears on the screen.

3.0M

PictBridge PRINT

PictBridge PRINT 101-0001

101-0001

One of the images stored on the “Memory Stick Duo” will be displayed.

3 Select the number of copies to be

printed with / .

A maximum of 20 copies of the image can be printed.

4 Touch t [END].

To print the date and time on the image, touch t [DATE/TIME] t [DATE] or [DAY&TIME] t .

5 Touch [EXEC] t [YES].

101

1/10

END

SET

EXEC

When printing is finished, [Printing...] disappears and the image selection screen appears again.

Touch [END] when printing is completed.

• Refer also to the operating instructions for the

printer to be used.

• Do not attempt the following operations when

is on the screen. The operations may not be

performed properly. – Operate the POWER switch.

– Disconnect the mains lead. – Remove your camcorder from the Handycam

Station (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E).

– Disconnect the USB cable from your

camcorder (DCR-HC36E) or the Handycam Station (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E) or the printer.

– Remove the “Memory Stick Duo” from your

camcorder.

• If the printer stops working, disconnect the USB cable, turn the printer off and on again and restart the operation from the beginning.

• Some printer models may not support the date and time printing function. Refer to your printer’s operating instructions for details.

• We cannot guarantee the printing of images recorded with a device other than your camcorder.

• PictBridge is an industry standard established by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA). You can print still images without using a computer by connecting a printer directly to a digital video camera or digital still camera, regardless of model or manufacturer.

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: If you print a still image recorded with a 16:9 ratio, left and right ends of the image may be cut off.

Dubbing/Editing

Jacks to connect external devices

Camcorder Handycam Station

(DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)

DCR-HC36E

4 5 3

DCR-HC44E/HC46E

DCR-HC94E/HC96E

2 3

Bottom

1 ...Open the shoe cover. 2 - 6 ...Open the jack cover.

3 6

5 4

A For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

Active Interface Shoe (p. 74) The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the POWER switch on your camcorder. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your accessory for details.

• When you connect an accessory, open the shoe cover.

• The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device for fixing the installed accessory securely. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To release an accessory, loosen the screw, and then slide it out while pressing down.

• Connecting with an external device wears out the battery pack faster.

• When you are recording movies with an external flash (optional) connected to the accessory shoe, turn off the power of the external flash to prevent charging noise being recorded.

• You cannot use an external flash (optional)

and the built-in flash at the same time.

• When an external microphone (optional) is connected, it takes precedence over the internal stereo microphone (p. 31).

B For DCR-HC94E/HC96E:

LANC jack (blue)

• The LANC control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video devices and peripherals connected to it.

C For DCR-HC96E:

A/V (audio/video) jack (p. 38, 67, 93) For DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E: A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p. 38, 67)

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks.

D (USB) jack (p. 82) E For DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E:

DV Interface (i.LINK) (p. 67, 90)

For DCR-HC44E/HC94E:

DV OUT Interface (i.LINK) (p. 67,

90)

F DC IN jack (p. 9) G Interface connector

Dubbing/Editing

Using a Computer

Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer

When you install the Picture Package software on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer.

• Software and features available for Macintosh computers differ from those available for Windows computers. For details, refer to chapter 6 of “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM. For “First Step Guide,” see page 85.

• There are 2 ways to connect your camcorder to a computer.

– USB cable

This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape to the computer, copying files from a “Memory Stick Duo” to a computer, and copying files to a “Memory Stick Duo.” Software is not required to copy files from a “Memory Stick Duo” to a computer. (You can connect your camcorder using the standard driver of the computer.)

– i.LINK cable

This method is good for copying video and sound recorded on a tape. Image data is transferred in more clarity than with a USB cable.

For details on connection, see “First Step Guide.”

Viewing video and pictures on PC

You can view the video and still images copied from your camcorder by selecting from thumbnails. Video and still images are saved in folders by date.

Music Video/Slideshow Producer

You can select your favorite video and still images from video and still images saved on your computer and easily create an original short video or original slide show with added music and visual styles.

Automatic Music Video Producer

You can easily create an original short video with added music and visual styles using video recorded on a tape.

Copying tape to Video CD

You can import the entire contents of a tape to create a video CD.

Save the images on CD-R

You can save video and still images copied onto a computer to a CD-R.

Burning Video CD

You can compose a video CD with a menu of videos and slide shows. ImageMixer VCD2 is compatible with high resolution still images.

USB Streaming Tool

You can view live or recorded images from your camcorder on a computer.

Video Capturing Tool

You can import the entire contents of a tape to a computer.

• The CD-ROM (supplied) includes the following software:

–USB Driver – Picture Package Ver.1.5.1 – ImageMixer VCD2 – “First Step Guide”

About “First Step Guide”

“First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software stored on the CDROM (supplied). Install the CD-ROM, read “Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer” (p. 85), start the “First Step Guide,” then follow the instructions.

About the help function of the software

The Help guide explains all software application functions. Refer to the Help guide for further detailed operations after reading the “First Step Guide” thoroughly. To display the Help guide, click the [?] mark on the screen.

System requirements

x For Windows users

When using Picture Package

OS: Microsoft Windows 2000

Professional, Windows Millennium Edition, Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional Standard installation is required. Operation is not assured if the above OS has been upgraded.

CPU: Intel Pentium III 500 MHz or faster

(800 MHz or faster recommended) (For using ImageMixer VCD2, Intel Pentium 4 1.3 GHz or faster recommended)

Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (This

product is based on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have DirectX installed.) Windows Media Player 7.0 or later Macromedia Flash Player 6.0 or later

Sound system: 16 bit stereo sound card

and stereo speakers

Memory: 64 MB or more

Hard disk: Available memory required for

installation: 500 MB or more Available free hard disk space recommended: 6 GB or more (depending on the size of the image files edited)

Display: 4 MB VRAM video card,

Minimum 800 × 600 dots, High color (16 bit color, 65,000 colors), DirectDraw display driver capability (This product will not operate correctly at less than 800 × 600 dots, or 256 colors or less.)

Others: USB port (This must be provided

as standard), DV Interface (IEEE1394, i.LINK) (to connect via an i.LINK cable), disc drive (You need a CD-R drive to create a video CD. For the compatible drive, visit the following URL: http://www.ppackage.com/)

When playing pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” on a computer

OS: Microsoft Windows 2000

Professional, Windows Millennium Edition, Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional Standard installation is required. Operation is not assured if the above OS has been upgraded.

CPU: MMX Pentium 200MHz or faster

Continued ,

Using a Computer

Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer (Continued)

Application: Windows Media Player

(This must be installed to play back movies.)

Others: USB port (This must be provided

as standard), disc drive

• If your computer has a Memory Stick slot, insert

the “Memory Stick Duo” on which pictures are recorded into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor (optional), then insert it into the Memory Stick slot on your computer to copy still images to the computer.

• If you try to use the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

on a computer that is not compatible with “Memory Stick PRO Duo,” connect your camcorder to the computer using the USB cable instead of using the “Memory Stick” slot.

x For Macintosh users

When using ImageMixer VCD2

OS: Mac OS X (v10.1.5 or later)

CPU: iMac, eMac, iBook, PowerBook,

Power Mac G3/G4/G5 series

Memory: 128 MB or more

Hard disk: Available memory required for

installation: 250 MB or more Available free hard disk space recommended: 4 GB or more (depending on the size of the image files edited)

Display: Minimum 1,024 × 768 dots,

32,000 colors (This product will not operate correctly at 1,024 × 768 dots or less, or 256 colors or less.)

Application: QuickTime 4 or later

(QuickTime 5 recommended)

Other: Disc drive

Others: USB port (This must be provided

as standard.)

• When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using a USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer. To copy recordings from a tape, connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable and use the standard software in the OS.

When only copying pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” on a computer

OS: Mac OS 9.1/9.2 or Mac OS X (v 10.1/

v 10.2/v 10.3/v 10.4)

Application: QuickTime 3.0 or later (This

must be installed to play back movies.)

Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer

You need to install the software etc., with the supplied CD-ROM on your computer before connecting your camcorder and your computer. Once installed, no further installation will be necessary. The software to be used varies depending on the computer’s operating system you are using. Windows computer: Picture Package (including ImageMixer VCD2) Macintosh computer: ImageMixer VCD2 For the details on the software, refer to “First Step Guide.”

Installing on a Windows computer

Log on as Administrators for installation for Windows 2000/Windows XP.

1 Confirm that your camcorder is

not connected to the computer.

2 Turn on the computer.

Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software.

If the screen does not appear

1 Double-click [My Computer]. 2 Double-click [PICTUREPACKAGE]

(Disc drive).*

* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary

depending on the computer.

4 Click [Install].

The software version of Picture Package is displayed as “1.5.”

Depending on the computer’s operating system, a message may appear notifying you that “First Step Guide” cannot be installed automatically with the InstallShield Wizard. In such a case, manually copy “First Step Guide” to your computer according to the message instructions.

Using a Computer

3 Place the CD-ROM in the disc

drive of your computer.

The installation screen appears.

The software version of Picture Package is displayed as “1.5.”

5 Select the language for the

application to be installed, then click [Next].

Continued ,

Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (Continued)

6 Click [Next].

7 Read [License Agreement], check

[I accept the terms of the license agreement] if you agree, then click [Next].

The software version of Picture Package is displayed as “1.5.”

8 Select where to save the

software, then click [Next].

9 Click [Install] on the [Ready to

Install the Program] screen.

The installation of Picture Package starts.

10Click [Next] to install the “First

Step Guide.”

Depending on the computer, this screen may not be displayed. In such a case, skip to step 11.

11Click [Next], then follow the on-

screen instructions to install ImageMixer VCD2.

12If the [Installing Microsoft(R)

DirectX(R)] screen is displayed, follow the steps below to install DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step

13.

1 Read the License Agreement, then click

[Next].

2 Click [Next].

3 Click [Finish].

13Make sure [Yes, I want to restart

my computer now.] is checked, then click [Finish].

The computer turns off once, then starts up again automatically (Restart). The short-cut icons for [Picture Package Menu] and [Picture Package destination folder] (and “First Step Guide,” if installed in step 10) appear on the desktop.

14Remove the CD-ROM from the

disc drive of your computer.

• For details on connecting your camcorder and computer, see “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 89).

• If you have any questions about Picture Package, contact information is listed on page

89.

Using a Computer

Continued ,

Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (Continued)

Installing on a Macintosh computer

1 Confirm that your camcorder is

not connected to the computer.

2 Turn on the computer.

Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software.

3 Place the CD-ROM in the disc

drive of your computer.

4 Double-click CD-ROM icon.

5 Copy “FirstStepGuide.pdf,”

stored in the desired language in the [FirstStepGuide] folder, to your computer.

6 Copy [IMXINST.SIT] in the [MAC]

folder of the CD-ROM to a folder of your choice.

9 When the user acceptance screen

is displayed, enter your name and password.

The installation of ImageMixer VCD2 starts.

• For details on connecting your camcorder and

computer, see “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 89).

• For details on how to use ImageMixer VCD2,

refer to software’s on-line help.

7 Double-click [IMXINST.SIT] in the

folder it was copied to.

8 Double-click the unzipped

[ImageMixerVCD2_Install].

Viewing “First Step Guide”

Displaying “First Step Guide”

Starting up on a Windows computer

Viewing with Microsoft Internet Explorer Ver.6.0 or later is recommended. Double-click the icon on the desktop.

You can also start up [First Step Guide] by selecting [Start], [Programs] ([All Programs] for Windows XP), [Picture Package] and [First Step Guide].

• To view “First Step Guide” in HTML without using automatic installation, copy the desired language folder from the [FirstStepGuide] folder on the CD-ROM, and then double-click “index.html.”

• Refer to “FirstStepGuide.pdf” located in your desired language folder in the following cases:

– When printing “First Step Guide” – When “First Step Guide” is not displayed

correctly due to the browser setting even in recommended environment.

– When the HTML version of “First Step

Guide” is not installed automatically.

Starting up on a Macintosh computer

Double-click “FirstStepGuide.pdf.”

To view the PDF, Adobe Reader is needed. If it is not installed on your computer, you can download it from the Adobe Systems web page: http://www.adobe.com/

For inquires about this software

Pixela User Support Center

Pixela Home Page Picture Package: http://www.ppackage.com/ ImageMixer VCD2: http://www.ImageMixer.com/

– North America (Los Angeles) Telephone:

(Toll-Free) +1-800-458-4029 +1-213-341-0163

– Europe (U.K.) Telephone:

(Toll-Free) UK, Germany, France and Spain: +800-1532-4865 Other countries: +44-1489-564-764

– Asia (Philippines) Telephone:

+63-2-438-0090

On Copyrights

Music works, sound recording or other third party musical contents you may acquire from CDs, the Internet or other sources (the “Music Contents”) are the copyrighted work of the respective owners thereof and are protected by copyright laws and other applicable laws of each country/ region. Except to the extent expressly permitted by applicable laws, you are not permitted to use (including, without limitation, copying, modifying, reproducing, uploading, transmitting or placing to the external network accessible to the public, transferring, distributing, lending, licensing, selling and publishing) any of the Music Contents without obtaining authorization or approval of the respective owners thereof. License of Picture Package by Sony Corporation would not be construed as conferring to you by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or right to use the Music Contents.

Using a Computer

Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”)

You can create a DVD from a tape with a Sony VAIO series computer* preinstalled with “Click to DVD Ver.1.2” (Sony original software) or later via an i.LINK cable. The picture is automatically copied and written to a DVD. The following procedures describe how to create a DVD from a recorded tape. For details on system and operation requirements, and “Click to DVD,” visit the following URL:

–Europe

http://www.vaio-link.com/

–USA

http://ciscdb.sel.sony.com/perl/select-pn.pl

– Asia Pacific Regional

http://www.css.ap.sony.com/

– Korea

http://scs.sony.co.kr/

–Taiwan

http://vaio-online.sony.com/tw/vaio/

– China

http://www.sonystyle.com.cn/vaio/

– Thailand

http://www.sony.co.th/vaio/index.html

– Latin America

http://www.sony-latin.com/vaio/info/ index.jsp

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station. This may cause a malfunction.

* Note that you need a computer equipped

with a DVD drive that can write DVDs.

Using the Direct Access to “Click to DVD” function for the first time

The Direct Access to “Click to DVD” function enables you to copy pictures recorded on a tape to a DVD easily if your camcorder is connected to a computer. Before operating the Direct Access to “Click to DVD” function, follow the steps below to start “Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher.”

1 Turn on the computer. 2 Click the start menu, then select [All

Programs].

3 Select [Click to DVD] from the programs

displayed, then click [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher].

[Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] starts up.

• After you start up [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] once, from then on it starts up automatically when you turn on your computer.

• [Click to DVD Automatic Mode Launcher] is set up for each Windows XP user.

To i.LINK connector

i.LINK cable (optional)

To DV Interface (i.LINK)

• You can only use an i.LINK cable for this operation. You cannot use a USB cable.

1 Turn on the computer.

Close all applications running with an i.LINK.

2 Prepare the power source for the

camcorder.

Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source since it takes a few hours to create a DVD.

3 Slide the POWER switch

repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp.

4 Insert a recorded cassette into

your camcorder.

5 Connect your camcorder (DCR-

HC36E) or the Handycam Station (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/ HC96E) to a computer via an i.LINK cable (p. 90).

• When you connect your camcorder to a

computer, make sure you insert the connector in the correct way. If you insert the connector forcibly, damage may occur and cause camcorder malfunction.

• For details, see “First Step Guide” on the

supplied CD-ROM (p. 89).

6 Touch t [MENU] t

(EDIT/PLAY) t [BURN DVD] t

“Click to DVD” starts up and the onscreen instructions appear on your computer.

7 Place a writable DVD in the disc

drive of the computer.

The status of the operation on your computer is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder.

[CAPTURING]: The picture recorded on the tape is being copied to the computer.

[CONVERTING]: The picture is being converted to the MPEG2 format.

[WRITING]: The picture is being written onto the DVD.

• If you use a DVD-RW/+RW which has other data stored on it, the message [This is a recorded disc. Delete and overwrite?] appears on the LCD screen of your camcorder. When you touch [EXEC], the existing data is erased and new data is written.

9 Touch [NO] to finish creating a

DVD.

60min BURN DVD COMPLETED

YES NO

The disc tray comes out automatically. To create another DVD with the same content, touch [YES].

The disc tray comes out. Place a new writable DVD in the disc drive. Then, repeat step 8 and 9.

Create another

copy?

Disctray opens.

0:00:00:00

Using a Computer

8 Touch [EXEC] on the screen of

your camcorder.

60min BURN DVD START

EXEC

0:00:00:00

CREATE DVD?

CANCEL

To cancel the operation

Touch [CANCEL] on the LCD screen on your camcorder.

• You cannot cancel the operation after [Finalizing DVD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder.

• Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set the POWER switch to another mode on your camcorder until the picture is completely copied to the computer.

Continued ,

Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) (Continued)

• When [CONVERTING] or [WRITING] is displayed on the screen, capturing of pictures has already finished. Even if you disconnect the i.LINK cable or turn off the camcorder at this stage, DVD creation will continue on your computer.

• If any of the following occurs, copying of the picture is canceled. A DVD containing the data up to the point the operation was canceled is created. Refer to the help files of “Click to DVD” for details.

– The tape contains a 10-second blank portion. – The tape data contains a date before the date

of later images.

– Both normal and wide pictures are recorded

on the same tape (Only for “Click to DVD” older than Ver.2.2).

• You cannot operate [BURN DVD] in the following situations:

– While a tape is running. – While recording images onto a “Memory

Stick Duo.”

– When “Click to DVD” is started up from the

computer.

– For DCR-HC96E:

When [A/V t DV OUT] in the menu setting of your camcorder is set to [ON].

Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via

your camcorder (Signal convert function) (DCRHC96E)

Using an i.LINK cable (3) and the A/V connecting cable (1) or the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), you can convert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder. Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 9). Software that can record the video signal must be installed on your computer beforehand.

A/V jack

A/V

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

VCR

To S VIDEO jack

: Signal flow

A A/V connecting cable (supplied)

The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup. The A/V jack accepts analog signals.

B A/V connecting cable with S

VIDEO (optional)

DV Interface (i.LINK)

To i.LINK jack

C i.LINK cable (optional)

Set [DISP OUTPUT] to [LCD PANEL] on the menu (p. 64) beforehand. (The default setting is [LCD PANEL].)

1 Turn on the analog video unit.

Computer

Continued ,

Using a Computer

Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (Continued)

2 Slide the POWER switch of your

camcorder repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

3 On the LCD screen, touch

t [MENU] t (STANDARD SET) t [A/V t DV OUT] t [ON] t t .

4 Start playback on the analog

video unit.

5 Start capturing procedures on

your computer.

Regarding operation, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the software or the on-line help.

After capturing images and sound, stop capturing procedures on your computer, and stop playback on the analog video unit.

• The bundled software Picture Package or ImageMixer VCD2 does not support the signal convert function.

• You may not be able to output the pictures correctly depending on the condition of the analog video signal input to your camcorder.

• You cannot transfer pictures with copyright protection signals to a computer.

• You can use a USB cable instead of an i.LINK cable to transfer pictures to a computer. Note, however, that the picture displayed may lack the same smoothness.

• When you are using the USB cable or an i.LINK cable to connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connectors in the correct way. If you insert the connectors forcibly, damage may occur and cause camcorder malfunction.

Troubleshooting

If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer.

Overall operations/Easy Handycam

The power does not turn on.

• Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 9).

• Use the AC Adaptor to connect to a wall socket (p. 9).

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E: Insert your camcorder into the Handycam Station correctly (p. 10).

The camcorder does not operate even when the power is set to on.

• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket or remove the battery pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.

• Press the RESET button (p. 31) using a sharp-pointed object. (If you press the RESET button, all settings are reset, except Personal Menu items.)

Buttons do not work.

• During Easy Handycam operation, not all buttons are functional (p. 25).

Easy Handycam operation cannot be switched to normal operation.

• While recording or communicating with another device via USB cable, you cannot switch Easy Handycam operation to the normal operation.

Settings change during Easy Handycam operation.

• During Easy Handycam operation, the settings of the functions that are not displayed on the screen return to their defaults. Previously made settings are restored when you cancel the Easy Handycam operation (p. 24, 42).

Troubleshooting

[DEMO MODE] does not start.

• You cannot view the demonstration when NIGHTSHOT PLUS (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/ HC46E)/NIGHTSHOT (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) switch is set to ON (p. 29).

• Eject the cassette and “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder (p. 20, 21).

The camcorder gets warm.

• The camcorder may get warmer while you use it. This is not a malfunction.

Continued ,

Troubleshooting (Continued)

Batteries/Power sources

The power abruptly turns off.

• When approximately 5 minutes have elapsed while you do not operate your camcorder, the

camcorder is automatically turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the setting of [A.SHUT OFF] (p. 64), or turn on the power again (p. 14), or use the AC Adaptor.

• Charge the battery pack (p. 9).

The CHG (charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being charged.

• Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) (p. 9).

• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 9).

• Connect the mains lead to the wall socket properly.

• The battery charge is completed (p. 10).

• For DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E:

Insert your camcorder into the Handycam Station correctly (p. 10).

The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged.

• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 9). If the problem persists, disconnect

the AC Adaptor from the wall socket and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be worn-out.

The power turns off frequently although the remaining battery time indicator indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate.

• A problem has occurred in the remaining battery time indicator, or the battery pack has not

been charged enough. Fully charge the battery again to correct the indication (p. 9).

The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time.

• Ambient temperature is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough.

This is not a malfunction.

• Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, the battery may be worn-out. Replace

it with a new one (p. 9, 121).

• The indicated time may not be correct in certain circumstances. For example, when you open

or close the LCD panel, it takes about 1 minute to display the correct remaining battery time.

The battery pack discharges too quickly.

• Ambient temperature is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough.

This is not a malfunction.

• Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, the battery may be worn-out. Replace

it with a new one (p. 9, 121).

A problem occurs when the camcorder is connected to the AC Adaptor.

• Turn off the power, and disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket. Then, connect it

again.

LCD screen/viewfinder

A rippling effect appears on the LCD screen when you touch it.

• This is not a malfunction. Do not press hard on the LCD screen.

An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or viewfinder.

• The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 59). Touch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” to cancel [DEMO MODE].

An unknown indicator appears on the screen.

• A warning indicator or message appears on the screen (p. 113).

The picture remains on the LCD screen.

• This occurs if you disconnect the DC plug from your camcorder or remove the battery pack without turning off the power first. This is not a malfunction.

You cannot turn the LCD backlight off (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E).

• During Easy Handycam operation (p. 24), you cannot turn the LCD backlight on/off by pressing and holding DISP/BATT INFO.

You cannot turn off the indicators.

• You cannot turn off . Touch to check the warning messages (p. 114).

The buttons do not appear on the touch panel.

• Touch the LCD screen lightly.

• Press DISP/BATT INFO on your camcorder (or DISPLAY on the Remote Commander) (p. 17, 36).

The buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly or do not work at all.

• Adjust the screen ([CALIBRATION]) (p. 125).

• If you change the aspect ratio of the picture, the aspect ratio of the buttons of the touch panel and indicators will switch to the selected one (p. 22).

The picture in the viewfinder is not clear.

• Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever until the picture appears clearly (p. 16).

The picture in the viewfinder has disappeared.

• Close the LCD panel. The picture is not displayed in the viewfinder when the LCD panel is open (p. 16).

Continued ,

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting (Continued)

Dots in lines appear on the LCD screen.

• This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded.

Cassette tapes

The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment.

• Make sure the power source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 9).

• Remove the battery pack from the camcorder, then attach it again (p. 11).

• Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 9).

• Moisture condensation has occurred inside the camcorder (p. 124).

The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a cassette with Cassette Memory.

• This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory, so the indicator does not appear.

The remaining tape indicator is not displayed.

• Set [ REMAINING] to [ON] to always display the remaining tape indicator (p. 64).

The cassette is noisier during rewinding or fast-forwarding.

• When using the AC Adaptor, rewind/fast forward speed increases (compared with battery

operation) and therefore increases noise. This is not a malfunction.

“Memory Stick Duo”

You cannot operate functions using the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY or PLAY/EDIT

lamp (p. 14).

• Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder (p. 21).

• If you use a “Memory Stick Duo” formatted on a computer, format it again on your

camcorder (p. 54).

Pictures cannot be deleted.

• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 120).

• Cancel image protection on the picture (p. 77).

• The maximum number of pictures that you can delete on the index screen at one time is 100.

You cannot delete all pictures at once.

• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 120).

• Cancel image protection on the pictures (p. 77).

You cannot format the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 120).

Image protection cannot be applied.

• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 120).

• Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 77).

You cannot mark pictures for print.

• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 120).

• Perform the operation again on the index screen (p. 77).

• The maximum number of pictures you can mark for print is 999.

• Movies cannot be marked for print.

The data file name is not indicated correctly.

• Only the file name is displayed if the directory structure does not conform to the universal standard.

• The file is damaged.

• The file format is not supported on your camcorder (p. 119).

The data file name flashes.

• The file is damaged.

• The file format is not supported on your camcorder (p. 119).

Recording

Refer also to “Adjusting the image during recording” (p. 101) and “Memory Stick Duo” section (p. 98).

Troubleshooting

The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP.

• Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp (p. 26).

• The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette.

• Set the write-protect tab to REC or insert a new cassette (p. 119).

• The tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette (p. 124).

You cannot record on the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 120).

• The “Memory Stick Duo” is full. Delete unnecessary pictures recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 76).

• Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder (p. 54) or insert another “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 21).

Continued ,

Troubleshooting (Continued)

• In the following settings, still images cannot be recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” during

tape recording. – [PROGRES.REC] (DCR-HC94E/HC96E) – [SMTH INT.REC] (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E)

• For DCR-HC36E:

You cannot record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” using [WIDE SELECT] mode (p. 50).

The recording angle differs depending on the POWER switch setting position (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/HC94E/HC96E).

• The recording angle when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY is wider than

when it is set to CAMERA-TAPE.

You cannot record a smooth transition on a tape from the last recorded scene to the next.

• Perform END SEARCH (p. 35).

• Do not remove the cassette. (The picture will be recorded continuously without a break even

when you turn the power off.)

• Do not record pictures in SP mode and LP mode on the same tape.

• Avoid stopping then recording a movie in the LP mode.

The shutter sound is not heard when you record a still image.

• Set [BEEP] to [ON] (p. 64).

The internal flash does not work (DCR-HC94E/HC96E).

• You cannot use the internal flash with:

– Tape recording – [SUPER NS] – [COLOR SLOW S] – [D. EFFECT] – [PROGRES.REC] –[BURST]

• Even if auto flash or (Auto redeye reduction) is selected, you cannot use the internal flash

with: – NightShot – [SPOTLIGHT], [SUNSET&MOON], and [LANDSCAPE] of [PROGRAM AE] –[EXPOSURE] – [SPOT METER]

The external flash (optional) does not work (DCR-HC94E/HC96E).

• The power of the flash is not turned on, or the flash is not attached correctly.

[END SEARCH] does not work.

• Do not eject the cassette after recording (p. 35).

• There is nothing recorded on the cassette.

100

Sony HC94E, HC44E User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Read this first

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder

Step 5: Using the touch panel

Changing the language setting

Checking the screen indicators (Display guide)

Step 6: Setting the date and time

Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC44E/HC46E/ HC94E/HC96E)

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)

Recording

Playback

Functions used for recording/playback, etc.

Recording

To use the flash (DCR-HC94E/HC96E)

To record in dark places (NightShot plus) (DCR-HC36E/HC44E/HC46E)

Playback

Recording/playback

Other part names and functions

Indicators displayed during recording/playback

Searching for the starting point

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH)

Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH)

Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)

Remote Commander

Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory)

Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search)

Playing the picture on a TV

Using the Menu

Using the menu items

Menu items

CAMERA SET menu

Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)

MEMORY SET menu

Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/ NEW FOLDER, etc.)

PICT.APPLI. menu

Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (SLIDE SHOW/PICT. EFFECT/FRAME REC, etc.)

EDIT/PLAY menu

Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/END SEARCH, etc.)

Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/ LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT, etc.)

(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE)

Customizing Personal Menu

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc.

Recording pictures from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc. (DCR-HC36E/HC46E/HC96E)

Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo”

Dubbing sound to a recorded tape

Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo”

Jacks to connect external devices

Using a Computer

Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer

Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer

Viewing “First Step Guide”

Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”)

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting