Sony HDR-AX2000 User Manual
4-163-319-13(1)
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
HDR-AX2000
Getting Started 15
Recording/
Playback
Editing 56
Using the Menu 65
Connecting with a
Computer
Troubleshooting 83
Additional Information 95
Quick Reference 109
Spanish Quick Guide/
Guía rápida en español
25
81
118
© 2009 Sony Corporation
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the
bottom. Record the serial number in the space
provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever
you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this
product.
Model No. HDR-AX2000
Serial No.
Model No. ACNo.
WARNING
To reduce fire or shock hazard, do
not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.
This symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous
voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric
shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of
important operating and
maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE
OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS.
• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug.
A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A
grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The
wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided
plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of
the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at
plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tipover.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long
periods of time.
Continued ,
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS (Continued)
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required
when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply
cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into
the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.
• If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment
plug adaptor of the proper configuration for the power outlet.
4
Read this first
Before operating this unit, please read this
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future
reference.
To handle the recorded images on
your computer
Refer to “Help” on the supplied CD-ROM
“Content Management Utility.”
CAUTION
Replace the battery with the
specified type only. Otherwise, fire
or injury may result.
Excessive sound pressure from earphones and
headphones can cause hearing loss.
Do not expose the batteries to excessive heat such
as sunshine, fire or the like.
Battery pack
If the battery pack is mishandled, the battery pack
can burst, cause a fire or even chemical burns.
Observe the following cautions.
• Do not disassemble.
• Do not crush and do not expose the battery pack
to any shock or force such as hammering,
dropping or stepping on it.
• Do not short circuit and do not allow metal
objects to come into contact with the battery
terminals.
• Do not expose to high temperature above 60°C
(140°F) such as in direct sunlight or in a car
parked in the sun.
• Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire.
• Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion
batteries.
• Be sure to charge the battery pack using a
genuine Sony battery charger or a device that
can charge the battery pack.
• Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small
children.
• Keep the battery pack dry.
• Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by Sony.
• Dispose of used battery packs promptly as
described in the instructions.
AC Adaptor
• Use the nearby wall outlet when using the AC
Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
wall outlet (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.
• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power
(house current) is still supplied to it while
connected to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the
AC Adaptor.
For customers in the U.S.A. and
CANADA
RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-Ion batteries are
recyclable. You can help preserve
our environment by returning
your used rechargeable batteries
to the collection and recycling
location nearest you.
For more information regarding recycling of
rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-8228837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/
Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking
Lithium-Ion batteries.
Continued ,
5
Read this first (Continued)
For customers in the U.S.A.
UL is an internationally recognized safety
organization.
The UL Mark on the product means it has
been UL Listed.
If you have any questions about this
product, you may call:
Sony Customer Information Center
1-800-222-SONY (7669).
The number below is for the FCC related
matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: HDR-AX2000
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA
92127 U.S.A.
Telephone Number: 858-942-2230
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following
measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
The supplied interface cable must be used with the
equipment in order to comply with the limits for a
digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of
FCC Rules.
For the State of California, USA only
Perchlorate Material - special handling may
apply, See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate
Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery contains
perchlorate.
Note
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications.
6
Representative plug of power supply cord of countries/regions around the world.
A Type
(American
Type)
B Type
(British Type)
BF Type
(British Type)
B3 Type
(British Type)
C Type (CEE
Type)
SE Type (CEE
Type)
O Type (Ocean
Type)
The representative supply voltage and plug type are described in this chart.
Depend on an area, Different type of plug and supply voltage are used.
Attention: Power cord meeting demands from each country shall be used.
- For only the United States
Use a UL Listed, 1.5-3 m (5-10 ft.), Type SPT-2 or NISPT-2, AWG no. 18 power supply cord, rated for
125 V 7 A, with a NEMA 1-15P plug rated for 125 V 15 A.”
Europe
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Austria
Belgium
Czech
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Luxemburg
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
Russia
Slovak
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
UK
230
230
220
230
230
230
230
220
220
230
230
220
230
230
230
220
230
220
220
220
127/230
230
230
240
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C/BF
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
BF
Asia
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
China
Hong Kong
India
Indonesia
Japan
Korea (rep)
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore
Taiwan
Thailand
Vietnam
220
200/220
230/240
127/230
100
220
240
220/230
230
110
220
220
50
50
50
50
50/60
60
50
60
50
60
50
50
A
BF
C
C
A
C
BF
A/C
BF
A
C/BF
A/C
Continued ,
7
Read this first (Continued)
Oceania
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Australia
New Zealand
North America
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Canada
USA
Central America
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Bahamas
Costa Rica
Cuba
Dominican (rep)
El Salvador
Guatemala
Honduras
Jamaica
Mexico
Nicaragua
Panama
South America
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Venezuela
Middle East
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Saudi Arabia
Turkey
UAE
Africa
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Algeria
Congo (dem)
Egypt
Ethiopia
Kenya
Nigeria
South Africa
Tanzania
Tunisia
240
230/240
120
120
120/240
110
110/220
110
110
120
110
110
120/127
120/240
110/220
220
127/220
220
120
220
120
220
220
230
127/220
220
240
127/220
220
220
220
240
230
220/230
230
220
50
50
60
60
60
60
60
60
60
60
60
50
60
60
60
50
60
50
60
60
60
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
50
O
O
A
A
A
A
A/C
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
C/BF/O
A/C
C
A
A/C
A
C/BF
C/BF
C
A/C/BF
C
C/BF
C
C
C
C
C/BF
C/BF
C/BF
C/BF
C
8
Notes on use
Types of memory cards you can use in
your camcorder
• You can use the following memory cards
for this camcorder; “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” (Mark2) media, “Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo” media, SD memory cards,
SDHC memory cards, SDXC memory
cards (Speed Class 4 or faster is required
for each SD card). However, operation
with all memory cards is not assured.
• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of up to
32 GB and SD cards of up to 64 GB have
been verified to operate with your
camcorder.
• In this manual, “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
(Mark2) media and “Memory Stick PROHG Duo” media are called “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media. SD memory card,
SDHC memory card and SDXC memory
card are called SD card.
• See page 95 for the recordable time of
memory cards.
b Notes
• A MultiMedia Card cannot be used with this
camcorder.
• Movies recorded on SDXC memory cards
cannot be imported to or played back on
computers or A/V devices not supporting the
exFAT* file system by connecting the
camcorder to these devices with the USB cable.
Confirm in advance that the connecting
equipment is supporting the exFAT system. If
you connect an equipment not supporting the
exFAT system and the format screen appears,
do not perform the format. All the data recorded
will be lost.
* The exFAT is a file system that is used for
SDXC memory cards.
Size of memory card you can use with
your camcorder
• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, half the
size of “Memory Stick,” or standard size
SD cards can be used for this camcorder.
• Do not attach a label or the like on
memory card or memory card adaptor.
Doing so may cause a malfunction.
Using the camcorder
• Do not hold the camcorder by the
following part.
Lens hood
Internal
microphone
Viewfinder
b Notes
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof or
waterproof. See “About handling of your
camcorder” (p. 101).
• Connect cables to your camcorder with their
terminals placed the correct way. Squeezing the
terminals into your camcorder's jacks may
damage them or results in a malfunction of your
camcorder.
LCD panel
Microphone (sold
separately) or
Microphone holder
Continued ,
9
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/or 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
Do not expose your camcorder’s
viewfinder, lens, or LCD screen to the
sun or strong light source for extended
periods.
• Intense light sources, especially the sun
will converge on the viewfinder or lens
and damage the internal parts of your
camcorder. Avoid sunlight or other strong
light sources when storing your
camcorder. Protect this device by always
closing the lens cover or by placing it in
its bag when not in use.
About temperature of your camcorder
and battery pack
• Your camcorder has a protective function
that disables recording or playback if the
temperature of your camcorder or battery
10
pack is beyond the safely operable range.
In this case, a message appears on the
LCD screen or in the viewfinder (p. 92).
On recording
• In order to stabilize memory card operation,
it is recommended that you format the
memory card when you use it with your
camcorder for the first time. All data
recorded on the memory card will be erased
by formatting, and can not be recovered.
Save important data on the memory card on
other media such as a computer, before
formatting the memory card.
• Before starting to record, test the recording
function to make sure the picture and sound
are recorded without any problems.
• Compensation for the loss of the content of
recordings or the loss of recording
opportunities cannot be provided, even if
recording or playback is not possible due to
a malfunction of the camcorder, storage
media, etc., or even if images or sounds are
distorted due to the limits of the capabilities
of the camcorder.
• TV color systems differ depending on the
countries/regions. To view your recordings
on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based
TV.
• Television programs, films, video tapes,
and other materials may be copyrighted.
Unauthorized recording of such materials
may be contrary to the copyright laws.
• Because of the way that the image device
(CMOS sensor) reads out image signals, the
following phenomena may occur.
– The subjects passing by the frame rapidly might
appear crooked depending on the recording
conditions. (This phenomenon may be notable
in displays having high motion resolution.)
– Horizontal lines appear on the screen during
recording under fluorescent lights. The
phenomena can be reduced by adjusting the
shutter speed (p. 32).
– Images on the screen look horizontally divided
when a subject is lighted with a flash. The
phenomena can be reduced by using a slower
shutter speed.
On playing back movies
• Your camcorder is compatible with
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile for
high definition image quality (HD)
recording. Therefore, you cannot play
back images recorded with high definition
image quality (HD) on your camcorder
with the following devices;
– Other AVCHD format compatible devices
which are not compatible with High Profile
– Devices which are not compatible with the
AVCHD format
• Movies made using this camcorder may
not play back normally on devices other
than this camcorder. Also, movies
recorded on other devices may not play
back properly on this camcorder.
• Standard (SD) image quality movies
recorded on SD memory cards cannot be
played on AV equipment of other
manufacturers.
Discs recorded with high definition
image quality (HD)
• This camcorder captures high definition
footage in the AVCHD format. DVD
media containing AVCHD footage should
not be used with DVD based players or
recorders, as the DVD player/recorder
may fail to eject the media and may erase
its contents without warning.
Save all your recorded image data
• To prevent your image data from being
lost, save all your recorded images on
external media periodically. It is
recommended that you save the image
data on a computer using the supplied
application software.
Format the recording media using
[MEDIA FORMAT] if images are not
recorded or played back properly
• If you continue recording and deleting
images on a memory card for a long time,
the files on that memory card may be
fragmented. As a result, you may not be
able to record and save images properly.
If this happens, save images on a separate
recordable media, such as a disc or
computer, then format the memory card
(p. 62).
Note on disposal/transfer
• Even if you delete all data or format the
memory card on your camcorder or
computer, you may not delete data from
the memory card completely. When you
transfer the memory card or your
camcorder, it is recommended that you
delete the data completely using
commercially available data deletion
software to prevent the recovery of your
data. Also, when you dispose of the
memory card, it is recommended that you
destroy the actual body of the memory
card.
About the operation of the camcorder
• You can operate the camcorder using the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial/B/b buttons
(p. 22), V/v/B/b/EXEC buttons (p. 65),
and the touch panel. However, you cannot
use the touch panel to make some settings
such as the MENU items.
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. 23).
• Design and specifications of recording
media and other accessories are subject to
change without notice.
11
Table of Contents
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ................................................. 3
Read this first ...........................................................................................5
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................15
Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover ....................................16
Step 3: Charging the battery pack ......................................................... 17
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly ..... 19
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................20
Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................22
Step 7: Inserting a memory card ............................................................ 23
Changing the language setting........................................................... 23
Recording/Playback
12
Recording ...............................................................................................25
Selecting the recording format............................................................ 27
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings ............................29
Adjusting the zoom.............................................................................. 29
Adjusting the focus manually .............................................................. 30
Adjusting the image brightness .......................................................... 31
Adjusting to natural color (White balance) .......................................... 33
Customizing the picture quality (Picture profile) ................................. 35
Audio setup ......................................................................................... 39
Recording with the SMOOTH SLOW REC function.............................41
Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons .....................................43
Playback ................................................................................................45
Viewing still images............................................................................. 47
Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder ...............................49
Changing the screen........................................................................... 49
Displaying recording data (Data code)............................................... 49
Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ................. 50
Connecting a monitor or a TV ................................................................ 51
Editing
Operating the MODE menu ....................................................................56
Protecting recorded images (Protect) .....................................................57
Using the Playlist of movies ...................................................................58
Capturing still images from a movie .......................................................59
Dividing a movie .....................................................................................60
Deleting movies and still images ............................................................61
Formatting the memory card ..................................................................62
Preventing data on the memory card from being recovered ..................63
Repairing the image database file ..........................................................64
Creating the Playlist ............................................................................ 58
Playing the Playlist .............................................................................. 58
Using the Menu
Operating the menu .............................................................. 65
Menu items .............................................................................................67
(CAMERA SET) menu ....................................................................69
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (GAIN SET/
BACK LIGHT/STEADYSHOT, etc.)
(REC/OUT SET) menu ....................................................................73
Recording settings, input and output settings (REC FORMAT/VIDEO OUT,
etc.)
(AUDIO SET) menu .........................................................................75
Settings for the audio recording (AUDIO LIMIT/XLR SET, etc.)
(DISPLAY SET) menu .....................................................................77
Display settings of the display and the viewfinder (MARKER/VF BACKLIGHT/
DISPLAY OUTPUT, etc.)
(OTHERS) menu ...............................................................................80
Settings while recording or other basic settings (AREA SET/BEEP, etc.)
Connecting with a Computer
Saving images with a computer .............................................................81
Continued ,
13
Table of Contents (Continued)
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting .....................................................................................83
Warning indicators and messages .........................................................92
Additional Information
Recording time of movies ......................................................................95
Using your camcorder abroad ................................................................ 97
File/folder structure on the memory card ...............................................98
Maintenance and precautions ................................................................99
Specifications .......................................................................................105
About the AVCHD format .................................................................... 99
About the memory card....................................................................... 99
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.............................................. 100
About x.v.Color .................................................................................. 101
About handling of your camcorder ................................................... 101
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................109
Screen indicators .................................................................................114
Index .................................................................................................... 115
Wireless Remote Commander........................................................... 113
Spanish Quick Guide/Guía rápida en español 118
14
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.
• Memory cards are not included. See pages 9 and
99 for types of memory cards that you can use
on your camcorder.
AC Adaptor (AC-L100C) (1) (p. 17)
Power cord (mains lead) (1) (p. 17)
Wireless Remote Commander (RMT-845)
(1) (p. 113)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
Component video cable (1) (p. 51)
Large eyecup (1) (p. 21)
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-F570) (1)
(p. 17, 100)
Lens hood with lens cover (1) (p. 16)
This lens hood is pre-mounted.
CD-ROM “Content Management Utility” (1)
Operating Guide (1)
Getting Started
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 51)
USB cable (1) (p. 81)
15
Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover
PUSH (lens hood release) button
Align the marks on the lens hood to
those on the camcorder, and turn the
lens hood in the direction of the
arrow 2 until it is locked.
To remove the lens hood with lens
cover
Turn the lens hood in the opposite direction
to the arrow 2 in the illustration while
pressing the PUSH (lens hood release)
button.
z Tips
• If you attach or remove a 72mm (2 7/8 in.) PL
filter or MC protector, remove the lens hood
with lens cover.
To open or close the shutter of the
lens hood with lens cover
Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to open
the lens cover, and move the lever to
CLOSE to close the lens cover.
16
Step 3: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack (L series) with the
supplied AC Adaptor.
b Notes
• You cannot use batteries other than the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series)
(p. 100).
DC plug
AC Adaptor
DC IN jack
Power cord
(mains lead)
To the wall outlet
(wall socket)
1 Press the battery pack against the
back of your camcorder and slide
it down.
Getting Started
2 With the B mark on the DC plug
facing outwards, connect the DC
plug to the DC IN jack on your
camcorder.
B mark
3 Connect the power cord (mains
lead) to the AC Adaptor.
4 Connect the power cord (mains
lead) to the wall outlet (wall
socket).
Continued ,
17
Step 3: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
5 Set the POWER switch to OFF
(CHG).
The CHG lamp lights up and charging
starts.
After charging the battery
The CHG lamp turns off when the battery is
fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor
from the DC IN jack.
z Tips
• You can check the remaining battery life with
the status check function (p. 50).
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
Push the BATT RELEASE (battery release)
button and remove the battery pack.
BATT RELEASE
(battery release) button
To store the battery pack
If the battery pack is not in use for a while,
run down the battery and store it. See page
101 for details on storage of the battery
pack.
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery
pack.
Battery pack Charging time
NP-F570 (supplied) 260
NP-F770 370
NP-F970 485
18
b Notes
• You cannot use the NP-F330 battery pack with
your camcorder.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
• The CHG lamp flashes during charging, or the
Battery Info (p. 50) 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.
– The battery pack is too cold.
Remove the battery pack and put it in a warm
place.
– The battery pack is too hot.
Remove the battery pack and put it in a cool
place.
• 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, even when the
power cord (mains lead) is disconnected from
the wall outlet (wall socket).
On the charging time
• Time measured with the camcorder at 25 °C
(77 °F). 10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is
recommended.
Using an outside power source
You can use the AC Adaptor to obtain the
AC power. While you are using the AC
Adaptor, the battery pack will not lose its
charge even when it is attached to your
camcorder.
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly
To record or play back, set the POWER
switch to ON.
When you use your camcorder for the first
time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears
(p. 22).
POWER switch
Getting Started
Connect your camcorder as shown
in “Step 3: Charging the battery
pack” on page 17.
On the AC Adaptor
• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC
Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic
objects. This may cause a malfunction.
1 Slide the POWER switch to ON
while pressing the green button.
Press and hold the
green button.
b Notes
• The current date and time appear on the LCD
screen for a few seconds when you turn on your
camcorder after you set the date and time with
[CLOCK SET] (p. 22).
Continued ,
19
Step 4: Turning the power on and
holding your camcorder properly
(Continued)
2 Hold the camcorder properly.
3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
LCD panel
Open the LCD panel 180 degrees (1), then
rotate it to the best angle to record or play
back (2).
1Open 180 degrees.
290 degrees
(max.)
2180 degrees
(max.)
DISPLAY button
z Tips
• Images are displayed as mirror images on the
LCD screen, but are recorded as normal images.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
b Notes
• If warning messages appear on the screen,
follow the instructions (p. 93).
20
To turn off the LCD backlight to make
the battery last longer
Press and hold the DISPLAY button for a
few seconds until appears.
This setting is practical when you use your
camcorder in bright conditions or when 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 the DISPLAY button for a few
seconds until disappears.
Also, you can turn on the LCD backlight by
turning on/off the camcorder.
z Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen
from [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 78).
Viewfinder
You can view picture using the viewfinder
to save the battery, or when the picture on
the LCD screen is not clear.
Viewfinder lens
adjustment lever
Move it until the picture
becomes clear.
b Notes
• You may see primary colors shimmering in the
viewfinder when you move your line of sight.
This is not a malfunction. The shimmering
colors will not be recorded on the memory card.
z Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight from [VF BACKLIGHT] (p. 79).
• To display images both on the LCD display and
in the viewfinder, set [VF POWERMODE] to
[ON] (p. 79).
b Notes
• Do not remove the pre-attached eyecup.
Large eyecup
(supplied)
Attach with the
protruding part
at the top.
Getting Started
When the picture in the viewfinder is
hard to see
If you cannot see the picture in the
viewfinder clearly under bright
circumstances, use the supplied large
eyecup. To attach the large eyecup, stretch
it slightly and align it with the eyecup
groove in the viewfinder. You can attach
the large eyecup facing either the right or
left side.
21
Step 6: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using your
camcorder for the first time. If you do not
set the date and time, [CLOCK SET] screen
appears every time you turn on your
camcorder.
z Tips
• 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. 103).
SEL/PUSH
EXEC dial
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for
the first time.
MENU
button
2 Select (OTHERS) by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then
press the dial.
3 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then
press the dial.
4 Select your area by turning the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press
the dial.
1 Press the MENU button.
22
5 Set [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME],
[Y] (year), [M] (month), [D] (day),
hour and minute, by turning the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press
the dial.
Step 7: Inserting a memory card
1 Open the cover in the direction of
the arrow.
The clock starts.
• Set [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME] to [ON]
to move the time forward 1 hour.
• You can set any year up to the year 2037.
• For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM. For
midday, set it to 12:00 PM.
z Tips
• The date and time are automatically recorded o n
the selected memory card, and can be displayed
during playback (DATA CODE button, p. 49).
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Press the MENU button and select
(OTHERS) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC
dial. Select the screen language in
[LANGUAGE] (p. 80).
Getting Started
2 Orient the memory card’s
notched corner as shown in the
illustration, and insert into the
memory card slot until it clicks.
Memory card slot A and
its access lamp
Memory card slot B and
its access lamp
Insert with the notched corner
first, and facing down.
b Notes
• If you insert a memory card into the slot in
the wrong direction, the memory card, the
memory card slot, or image data may be
damaged.
• When you insert a new memory card in
standby mode, the [Create a new Image
Continued ,
23
Step 7: Inserting a memory card (Continued)
Database File.] screen appears. Follow the
screen indication, and touch [YES].
To eject the memory card
Lightly push the memory card once.
b Notes
• When the access lamp is lit or flashing in red,
your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not
shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power
off, eject the memory card, or remove the
battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be
damaged.
• If [Failed to create a new Image Database File.
It may be possible that there is not enough free
space.] appears in step 2, format the memory
card (p. 62).
• When inserting or ejecting the memory card, be
careful to prevent the memory card from
popping out and dropping.
Selecting the memory card slot to be
used for recording
Press the A or B button of the memory card
slot where the memory card you want to
record on is inserted. The lamp of the
selected slot lights up in green.
b Notes
• You can only select a slot that already has a
memory card inserted.
• While movies are being recorded on the
memory card, you cannot switch the slot even if
you press the memory card slot A/B buttons.
z Tips
• When only one slot has a memory card inserted,
the slot that has the memory card is selected
automatically.
• If the memory card is fully recorded during
recording, the camcorder continues recording
automatically on the memory card inserted in
the other slot (Relay recording, p. 26).
24
Memory card slot A button
Memory card slot B button
Recording/Playback
Recording
Handle record button
Recording lamp
Recording lamp
Lens hood
POWER switch
Record button
Your camcorder records movies on memory cards. Do the following steps to record movies.
• This camcorder can record movies in either high definition image quality (HD) or standard definition
image quality (SD). The factory setting is high definition image quality (HD) ([REC FORMAT], p. 27).
b Notes
• When the access lamp is lit or flashing in red, your camcorder is writing data on the memory card. Do not
shake or knock your camcorder, or remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor.
• See page 95 on the recording time of movies.
• Your camcorder can record movies for about 13 hours continuously.
• If a movie file exceeds 2 GB during recording, the camcorder divides the file and create a new file
automatically.
• The menu settings, the PICTURE PROFILE settings, and the settings made by the AUTO/MANUAL
switch are stored in your camcorder when you turn the POWER switch to OFF. The access lamp lights up
while the settings are being stored. If you remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor before turning off
the power, the settings may return to the default settings.
1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.
Recording/Playback
Continued ,
25
Recording (Continued)
2 Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button.
Press and hold the green
button.
3 Press the record button or the handle record button.
[STBY] t [REC]
The recording lamp lights up during recording.
To stop the movie recording, press the record button or the handle record button again.
z Tips
• When recording in high definition image quality (HD), the aspect ratio is fixed to 16:9. When recording in
standard definition image quality (SD), you can switch the aspect ratio to 4:3 ([ WIDE REC], p. 73).
• You can change the screen display during recording (p. 49).
• Indicators displayed on the screen during recording are shown on page 114.
• The recording lamp can be set to stay off ([REC LAMP], p. 80).
• For low angle recording, the handle record button is convenient. Release the HOLD lever to enable the
handle record button. It might be helpful if you set the LCD panel face up or close it after turning it face
down, or lift the viewfinder up during the low angle recording.
• You can capture still images from the movies you recorded (p. 59).
To continue recording on memory cards, one after another (Relay recording)
Insert memory cards each in both slots A and B, so the camcorder switches memory card A (or
B) just before space on the other one runs out, and continues recording on the next memory
card automatically.
26
Insert a recordable memory card.
Small space
Start
Small space
b Notes
• Do not eject the memory card that is currently being used for recording. Replace only the memory card
whose slot lamp is off.
• Even if you press the memory card slot button, A or B, while recording movies, you cannot switch the slot
currently being used.
• When the remaining recording time of the memory card being used is less than 1 minute and the other slot
has a recordable memory card inserted, [ ] or [ ] appears on the camcorder screen.
The indicator turns off when the memory card is switched.
• If you start recording on a memory card with the remaining recording time of less than 1 minute, the
camcorder may not be able to relay-record. To relay-record without fail, make sure that the memory card
has more than 1 minute when you start recording.
• Seamless playback of relay-recorded movies with this camcorder is not possible.
• You can re-combine relay-recorded movies using the supplied application software (Windows only).
End
REC: Recording
Selecting the recording format
You can select the recording format (bit-rate, image quality, image size, frame rate, scanning
system). In the default setting, [ ] is selected.
To change the setting
Press MENU t select (REC/OUT SET) t [REC FORMAT] with the SEL/PUSH
EXEC dial.
Recording/Playback
Continued ,
27
Recording (Continued)
Setting value Description
• Bit-rate
FX: max. 24 Mbps
FH: approx. 17 Mbps (average)
HQ: approx. 9 Mbps (average)
LP: approx. 5 Mbps (average)
• Image quality
HD: High definition image quality
SD: Standard definition image quality
•Image size
FX: 1920×1080
FH: 1920×1080
HQ: HD recording 1440×1080
SD recording 720×480
LP: 1440×1080
• Frame rate
either 24, 30, or 60
• Scanning system
i: interlace
p: progressive
pSCAN: Records images of progressive scanning system as interlace
signal (60i).
Setting value
If you select [ ], for example, movies are recorded with following format.
• HD: High definition image quality. SD is standard definition image quality.
• 1080: Effective scanning lines
• 60: Frame rate
• i: Scanning system
• FX: Recording mode
b Notes
• The recording mode is fixed to FX or FH with the progressive scanning system.
28
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings
Adjusting the zoom
.
Using the power zoom lever
Move the power zoom lever D slightly for
a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster
zoom.
Wide view: (Wide angle)
Close view: (Telephoto)
z Tips
• The minimum distance required between your
camcorder and the subject for focus is about
1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about
80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.
• The focus may not be adjusted at certain zoom
positions if the subject is within 80 cm (about
2 5/8 feet) from your camcorder.
• Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom
lever D. If you move your finger off the power
zoom lever D, the operation sound of the
power zoom lever D may also be recorded.
Using the handle zoom
1 Set the handle zoom switch B to VAR
or FIX.
z Tips
• When you set the handle zoom switch B to
VAR, you can zoom in or out at variable
speed.
• When you set the handle zoom switch B to
FIX, you can zoom in or out at fixed speed
set in [HANDLE ZOOM] (p. 71).
2 Press the handle zoom lever A to zoom
in or out.
b Notes
• You cannot use the handle zoom lever A when
the handle zoom switch B is set to OFF.
• You cannot change the zoom speed of the power
zoom lever D with the handle zoom switch
B.
Using the zoom ring
You can zoom at the desired speed by
turning the zoom ring C. Fine adjustment
is also possible.
b Notes
• Turn the zoom ring C at a moderate speed. If
you turn it too fast, the zoom speed may lag
behind the zoom ring rotation speed, or the
operation sound of the zoom may also be
recorded.
Recording/Playback
Continued ,
29
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued)
Adjusting the focus manually
You can adjust the focus manually for
different recording conditions.
Use this function in the following cases.
– To record a subject behind a window covered
with raindrops.
– To record horizontal stripes.
– To record a subject with little contrast between
the subject and its background.
– When you want to focus on a subject in the
background.
– To record a stationary subject using a tripod.
1 During recording or standby, set
the FOCUS switch B to MAN.
9 appears.
9 changes to when the focus
cannot be adjusted any farther.
9
changes to when the focus cannot be
adjusted any closer.
z Tips
For focusing manually
• It is easier to focus on the subject when you use
the zoom function. Move the power zoom lever
towards T (telephoto) to adjust the focus, and
then, towards W (wide angle) to adjust the zoom
for recording.
• When you want to record a close-up image of a
subject, move the power zoom lever towards W
(wide angle) to fully magnify the image, then
adjust the focus.
To restore automatic adjustment
Set the FOCUS switch B to AUTO.
9 disappears and the automatic focus
adjustment is restored.
Using automatic focus temporarily
(Push auto focus)
Record the subject while pressing and
holding the PUSH AUTO button C.
If you release the button, the setting returns
to manual focusing.
Use this function to shift the focus on one
subject to another. The scenes will shift
smoothly.
z Tips
• The focal distance information (for when it is
dark and hard to adjust the focus) appears for
about 3 seconds in the following cases. (It will
not be displayed correctly if you are using a
conversion lens (sold separately)).
– When you set the FOCUS switch B to
MAN and 9 appears on the screen
– When you rotate the focus ring while 9 is
displayed on the screen.
2 Rotate the focus ring A and
adjust the focus.
30
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