Sony HDR-CX7, HDR-CX7K Handbook
3-214-656-11(1)
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Handycam Handbook
Utilizing Recording Media 54
HDR-CX7/CX7K
Enjoying Your
Camcorder
Getting Started 15
Recording/Playback
Editing 46
Customizing Your
Camcorder
Troubleshooting 77
Additional
Information
Quick
Reference
8
24
57
87
98
© 2007 Sony Corporation
Read this before operating your camcorder
Before operating the unit, please read this
Handbook thoroughly, and retain it for
future reference.
On “Handycam Handbook” (this book)
“Handycam Handbook” (PDF/this
Handbook) explains how to operate your
camcorder in detail. Please read “Operating
Guide” (the separate paper volume) as well.
Handling the images recorded on your
camcorder on a computer
Read “Picture Motion Browser Guide” on
the supplied CD-ROM.
Types of “Memory Stick” you can use
with your camcorder
• For recording movies, it is recommended
that you use a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
of 512 MB or larger marked with:
– (“Memory Stick
PRO Duo”)
– (“Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo”)
• A “Memory Stick PRO Duo” of up to 8
GB has been confirmed to operate
correctly with this camcorder.
• See page 10 for the recordable time of a
“Memory Stick PRO Duo.”
“Memory Stick PRO Duo”/“Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo”
(This size can be used with your
camcorder.)
“Memory Stick”
(You cannot use it in your camcorder.)
• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and “Memory
Stick PRO-HG Duo” are both referred to
2
as “Memory Stick PRO Duo” in this
manual.
• You cannot use any type of memory card
other than those mentioned above.
• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” can be used
only with “Memory Stick PRO”
compatible equipment.
• Do not attach a label or the like on a
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” or a Memory
Stick Duo adaptor.
When using a “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” with “Memory Stick”
compatible equipment
Be sure to insert the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo adaptor.
Memory Stick Duo adaptor
Using the camcorder
• Do not hold the camcorder by the
following parts.
LCD screen Battery pack
• The camcorder is not dustproofed,
dripproofed or waterproofed. See “About
handling of your camcorder” (p. 93).
• To prevent the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
from being broken or recorded images
from being lost, do not do the following
when either of the respective lamps of the
POWER switch (p. 20) or the access lamp
(p. 28) is on:
– to remove the battery pack or AC
Adaptor from the camcorder.
– to apply mechanical shock or vibration to
the camcorder.
• When connecting your camcorder to
another device with a cable, be sure to
insert the connector plug in the correct
way. Pushing the plug forcibly into the
terminal will damage the terminal and
may result in a malfunction of your
camcorder.
• Connect the A/V connecting cable to the
Handycam Station when using your
camcorder attached to the Handycam
Station.
• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
Handycam Station holding both the
Handycam Station and the DC plug.
• 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.
About menu items, LCD panel and
lens
• A menu item that is grayed out is not
available under the current recording or
playback conditions.
• The LCD screen is manufactured using
extremely high-precision 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.
These points are normal results of the
manufacturing process and do not affect
the recording in any way.
• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might
cause your camcorder to malfunction.
Take images of the sun only in low light
conditions, such as at dusk.
About changing the language setting
• The on-screen displays in each local
language are used for illustrating the
operating procedures. Change the screen
language before using your camcorder if
necessary (p. 21).
On recording
• Before starting to record, test the
recording function to make sure the image
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
country/region. 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.
On playing back recorded images on
other devices
• To view the HD (high definition) images
on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” on other
devices, the device must comply with the
AVCHD format. Otherwise, you cannot
view the images.
Black point
White, red, blue or
green point
• Exposing the LCD screen or the lens to
direct sunlight for long periods of time
may cause malfunctions.
Save all your recorded image data
• To prevent your image data from being
lost, save all your recorded images on
external media. It is recommended that
you save the image data on a disc such as
DVD-R using your computer (p. 45).
Also, you can save your image data using
a VCR, or a DVD/HDD recorder (p. 51).
3
• It is recommended that you save your
image data periodically, after recording.
Notes on battery pack/AC Adaptor
• While the access lamp is lit, be sure to
avoid the following. They may cause
malfunctions.
– Removing the battery pack
– Removing the AC Adaptor (while operating
the camcorder on the external power source)
– Ejecting the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
• Be sure to remove the battery pack or the
AC Adaptor after turning off the POWER
switch.
About this Handbook
• The images of the LCD screen used in this
Handbook for illustration purposes are
captured using a digital still camera, and
therefore may appear different.
• Design and specifications of recording
media and other 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. Also, the lens for your
camcorder is T -coated to suppress
unwanted reflections and faithfully
reproduce colors.
MTF= Modulation Transfer Function. The
number value indicates the amount of light
from a subject coming into the lens.
4
Table of Contents
Read this before operating your
camcorder ...................................2
Subject examples and solutions ..... 7
Enjoying Your Camcorder
Operation flow ................................8
“ HOME” and “ OPTION”
- Taking advantage of two types of
menus .......................................12
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items ..15
Step 2: Charging the battery pack 16
Step 3: Turning the power on and
setting the date and time ...........20
Changing the language setting .... 21
Step 4: Adjusting the camcorder to
suit you ......................................21
Step 5: Inserting a “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” .................................22
Recording/Playback
Recording and playback with ease
(Easy Handycam operation) .....24
Recording .....................................28
Zooming ........................................ 30
Recording sound with more presence
(5.1ch surround recording) ........... 30
Using the flash .............................. 31
Recording high quality still images
during movie recording (Dual Rec)
....................................................... 31
Recording in dark places
(NightShot) ..................................... 32
Adjusting the exposure for backlit
subjects ........................................ 32
Recording in mirror mode ............. 32
Recording the fast action in slow-
motion (SMTH SLW REC) .............. 33
Playback .......................................34
Playing back from a face image
(Face Index) .................................. 37
Using PB zoom ............................. 37
Searching for desired movies by date
(Date Index) .................................. 37
Playing back a series of still images
(Slide show) .................................. 38
Playing the image on a TV ............39
Saving images ..............................45
Editing
(OTHERS) category .................46
Deleting images ............................46
Dividing a movie ...........................48
Creating the Playlist ......................49
Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD
recorders ...................................51
Printing recorded images (PictBridge
compliant printer) ......................52
Utilizing Recording Media
(MANAGE MEMORY STICK)
category ....................................54
Formatting the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” ..........................................54
Checking the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” information ........................55
Repairing the image database file
...................................................56
Customizing Your Camcorder
What you can do with the
(SETTINGS) category of the
HOME MENU .......................57
Using the HOME MENU ................ 57
List of the (SETTINGS) category
items .............................................. 58
MOVIE SETTINGS .......................59
5
(Items for recording movies)
PHOTO SETTINGS ..................... 63
(Items for recording still images)
VIEW IMAGES SET ..................... 65
(Items to customize the display)
SOUND/DISP SET ....................... 66
(Items to adjust the sound and the
screen)
OUTPUT SETTINGS ................... 67
(Items for when connecting other
devices)
CLOCK/ LANG ......................... 68
(Items to set clock and language)
GENERAL SET ............................ 69
(Other setup items)
Activating functions using the
OPTION MENU ................... 70
Using the OPTION MENU ............. 70
Recording items on the OPTION
MENU ............................................ 71
Viewing items on the OPTION
MENU ............................................ 71
Functions set in the OPTION
MENU ....................................... 72
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ........................... 77
Warning indicators and messages
................................................... 84
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ....... 98
Indicators displayed during recording/
playback ..................................103
Glossary ..................................... 105
Index ........................................... 106
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ...... 87
Files/folder structure on the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” ........................ 89
Maintenance and precautions ...... 90
About the AVCHD format .............. 90
About the “Memory Stick” ............. 90
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack .............................................. 92
About x.v.Color .............................. 93
About handling of your camcorder
....................................................... 93
6
Subject examples and solutions
Checking your golf
swing
Getting a good
shot of a ski slope
or beach
B SMTH SLW REC ........................33 B Backlight ...................................32
B BEACH.......................................74
B SNOW .......................................74
Capturing still
images during
movie recording
B Dual Rec....................................31 BSPOTLIGHT...............................74
Flowers in closeup
B PORTRAIT .................................74
B FOCUS.......................................72
B TELE MACRO.............................72
Focusing on the
dog on the left
A child on the
stage under a spot
light
Fireworks with all
its splendor
B FIREWORKS..............................73
B FOCUS.......................................72
A sleeping child
under dim light
side of the screen
B FOCUS.......................................72
B SPOT FOCUS .............................72
B NightShot..................................32
B COLOR SLOW SHTR .................75
7
Enjoying Your Camcorder
Operation flow
B Get ready (p. 15).
• On the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” you can use with your camcorder, see page 11.
B Record using your camcorder (p. 28).
• You can record movies and still images on a “Memory Stick PRO
Duo.”
• You can select the image quality: HD (high definition) image
quality or SD (standard definition) image quality (p. 59).
HD (high definition) image quality SD (standard definition) image
quality
AVCHD format
Image resolution: about 4.5 times
of that of SD (standard definition)
image quality
b Notes
• Your camcorder is compatible with the “1440 × 1080/60i” standard of AVCHD format (p. 90).
“AVCHD 1080i format” is abbreviated as “AVCHD” in this manual, except when it must be
described in more detail.
MPEG2 format
Records with SD (standard
definition) image quality.
8
B Play back the images (p. 34).
x Viewing on a high definition TV (p. 39)
You can enjoy movies with HD (high definition) image
quality, with the same image quality as they were recorded.
x Viewing on a non-high-definition TV (p. 39)
You can enjoy movies recorded with HD (high definition)
image quality, but they will be converted to SD (standard definition) image quality.
b Notes
• To view the HD (high definition) images on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” on other devices, the
device must comply with the AVCHD format. Otherwise, you cannot view the images.
• Some AVCHD format devices may not be able to play the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”
z Tips
• You can consult the [TV CONNECT Guide] (p. 39) displayed on the screen on connecting your TV
and camcorder.
B Save recorded images (p. 45).
x Saving images on a disc using a computer
x Importing images to a computer
x Dubbing images on VCR or DVD/HDD recorders (p. 51)
z Tips
• You can view movies with HD (high definition) image quality on computers, using the supplied
“Picture Motion Browser.”
• See “Picture Motion Browser Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM about handling images on a
computer.
Enjoying Your Camcorder
9
B Delete images.
If the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” is full, you cannot record
new images. Delete image data that has been saved on a
computer or a disc from the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.” If
you delete images that have been saved elsewhere, you can
record new images on newly freed up space of the
“Memory Stick PRO Duo.”
x Deleting the selected images (p. 46)
x Deleting all the images ([ FORMAT], p. 54)
Expected recording time of movies
The recording time depends on the capacity of “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and recording mode
(p. 59).
“Memory Stick PRO
Duo” capacity
HD (high definition) image quality
AVC HD 15M (XP)
(highest quality)
AVC HD 9M (HQ)
(high quality)
AVC HD 7M (SP)
(standard quality)
AVC HD 5M (LP)
(long play)
SD (standard definition) image quality
SD 9M (HQ)
(high quality)
SD 6M (SP)
(standard quality)
SD 3M (LP)
(long play)
* Since the recordable time is less than 5 minutes, appears (p. 84).
z Tips
• Figures such as 15M and 9M in the table show the average bit rate. M stands for Mbps.
Approximate recordable time in minutes (Minimum recordable time in minutes)
512MB 1GB 2GB 4GB 8GB
3* (3) 7 (7) 15 (15) 30 (30) 60 (60)
6 (4) 10 (10) 25 (20) 55 (40) 115 (80)
8 (6) 15 (10) 35 (25) 65 (45) 140 (100)
10 (8) 20 (15) 45 (35) 85 (70) 175 (145)
6 (5) 10 (10) 25 (25) 55 (50) 115 (100)
10 (5) 20 (10) 40 (25) 80 (50) 170 (100)
15 (10) 40 (25) 80 (55) 160 (105) 325 (215)
10
“Memory Stick” you can use with your camcorder
• For recording movies, it is recommended that you use a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” of 512
MB or larger marked with:
– (“Memory Stick PRO Duo”)
– (“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo”)
• A “Memory Stick PRO Duo” of up to 8 GB has been confirmed to operate correctly with this
camcorder.
• See the following URL on the “Memory Stick” you can use on your camcorder.
http://www.sony.net/memorystick/supporte/
• For the recordable number of still images, see page 63.
• You can record movies of a maximum of 3,999 scenes with HD (high definition) image
quality, and 9,999 scenes with SD (standard definition) image quality.
Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit Rate) format to automatically adjust image quality to suit the
recording scene. This technology causes fluctuations in the recor ding time of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo.”
Movies containing quickly moving and complex images are recorded at a higher bit rate, and this reduces
the overall recording time.
Enjoying Your Camcorder
11
Enjoyi
ng your camcorder
“ HOME” and “ OPTION”
- Taking advantage of two types of menus
“ HOME MENU” - the starting point for operations with your
camcorder
(HELP)
Displays a description of the item (p. 13)
Category
B Categories and items of the HOME MENU
(CAMERA) category
Item Page
MOVIE* 29
PHOTO* 29
SMTH SLW REC 33
(VIEW IMAGES) category
Item Page
VISUAL INDEX* 34
INDEX* 35
INDEX* 37
PLAYLIST 49
(OTHERS) category
Item Page
DELETE* 46
EDIT 48
PLAYLIST EDIT 49
PRINT 52
COMPUTER 46
TV CONNECT Guide* 39
12
(MANAGE MEMORY STICK) category
Item Page
FORMAT* 54
INFO 55
REPAIR IMG.DB F. 56
(SETTINGS) category*
To customize your camcorder (p. 57).
* You can also set these items during Easy
Handycam operation (p. 24). For the items
available in the (SETTINGS) category, see
page 58.
Using the HOME MENU
1 While pressing the green button
in the center, slide the POWER
switch in the direction of the
arrow to turn on the power.
2 Press (HOME) A (or B).
(HOME) B
4 Touch the desired item.
Example: [EDIT]
Enjoying your camcorder
5 Follow the guide on the screen for
further operation.
To hide the HOME MENU screen
Touch .
B When you want to know something
about the function of each item on
the HOME MENU - HELP
1 Press (HOME).
The HOME MENU appears.
(HOME) A
3 Touch the desired category.
Example: (OTHERS) category
2 Touch (HELP).
The bottom of the (HELP) turns
orange.
13
3 Touch the item you want to learn
more about.
When you touch an item, its explanation
appears on the screen.
To apply the option, touch [YES],
otherwise, touch [NO].
To deactivate the HELP
Touch (HELP) again in step 2.
Using the OPTION MENU
Just a touch on the screen during shooting
or playback displays the functions available
at that moment. You will find it easy to
make various settings. See page 70 for
further details.
14
(OPTION)
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure that you have the following
items supplied with your camcorder.
The number in the parentheses indicates the
number of that item supplied.
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 16)
Power cord (1) (p. 16)
Handycam Station (1) (p. 16, 101)
Component video cable (1) (p. 41)
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 41, 51)
Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 102)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
Rechargeable battery pack (1) (p. 16, 92)
NP-FH60
CD-ROM “Handycam Application
Software” (1)
– Picture Motion Browser (Software)
– Picture Motion Browser Guide
– Handycam Handbook (This Handbook)
“Operating Guide” (1)
HDR-CX7K
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” 4 GB (1) (p. 22)
Getting Started
USB cable (1) (p. 52)
15
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
DC IN jack
Battery pack
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack (H series) (p. 92) after
attaching it to your camcorder.
b Notes
• You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack other than the H series to your camcorder.
AC Adaptor
1 Connect the AC Adaptor to the
DC IN jack on the Handycam
Station.
Be sure that the v mark on the DC plug
is facing up.
2 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor and the wall outlet.
3 Slide the POWER switch in the
direction of the arrow to OFF
(CHG) (the default setting).
POWER
switch
DC plug
Power cord
To the wall outlet
/CHG
(charge) lamp
4 Attach the battery pack by sliding
it in the direction of the arrow
until it clicks.
5 Place the camcorder on the
Handycam Station as shown
above, and insert it into the
Handycam Station securely, all
the way to the bottom.
The /CHG (charge) lamp lights up and
charging starts. When the /CHG
(charge) lamp turns off, the battery is
charged.
b Notes
• When inserting the camcorder into the
Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover.
16
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.
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
Slide the BATT (battery release) lever and
remove the battery pack.
BATT (battery
release) lever
b Notes
• When you remove the battery pack or
disconnect the AC Adaptor, make sure that the
(Movie) lamp/ (Still) lamp (p. 20) is
turned off.
Getting Started
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.
POWER switch
DC plug
DC IN jack
Open the jack
cover
b Notes
• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN
jack holding both the camcorder and the DC
plug.
With the v mark
on the left
When storing the battery pack
Fully discharge the battery pack before
storing it for an extended period (see page
93 for the details of storage).
To use a power source from a wall
outlet
Make the same connections as you do when
charging the battery pack. The battery pack
will not lose its charge in this case.
To check the remaining battery
(Battery Info)
Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), then
press DISP/BATT INFO.
After a while, the approximate recordable
time and battery information appear for
about 7 seconds. You can view the battery
17
information for up to 20 seconds by
pressing DISP/BATT INFO again while the
information is displayed.
Remaining battery (approx.)
* Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the
power on/off and zooming.
b Notes
• All times are measured under following
conditions.
– Recording mode: SP
–[ INDEX]: [OFF]
– LCD backlight: [ON] (top), [OFF] (bottom)
Recording capacity (approx.)
Charging time (full charge)
Approximate time (min.) required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery
pack.
Battery pack Charging time
NP-FH50 135
NP-FH60 (supplied) 135
NP-FH70 170
NP-FH100 390
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
“HD” stands for high definition image
quality, and “SD” stands for standard image
quality.
Continuous
Battery pack
recording
time
Image quality HD SD HD SD
NP-FH50 70 80 35 40
70 85 35 40
NP-FH60
(supplied)
95 110 45 55
95 115 45 55
NP-FH70 150 180 75 90
155 185 75 90
NP-FH100 350 405 175 200
360 415 180 205
Typical
recording
time*
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
“HD” stands for high definition image
quality, and “SD” stands for standard image
quality.
Battery pack LCD panel opened*
Image quality HD SD
NP-FH50 120 140
NP-FH60 (supplied) 160 190
NP-FH70 255 300
NP-FH100 580 680
* When the LCD backlight is on.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF (CHG) and turn off the
(Movie) lamp/ (Still) lamp (p. 20) .
• The /CHG (charge) lamp flashes during
charging, or Battery Info (p. 17) 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, even when the power cord is
disconnected from the wall outlet.
• When attaching an optional video light, it is
recommended that you use an NP-FH70 or NPFH100 battery pack.
18
• We do not recommend using an NP-FH30,
which only allows short recording and playback
times, with your camcorder.
On the charging/recording/playback time
• Times measured when using the camcorder at
25 °C (77 °F) (10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 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.
On the AC Adaptor
• Use the nearby wall outlet when using the AC
Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
wall outlet 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.
• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power
(house current) is still supplied to it while
connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor.
Getting Started
19
Step 3: Turning the power on and setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using this
camcorder for the first time. If you do not
set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET]
screen appears every time you turn on your
camcorder or change the POWER switch
position.
Lens cover
Touch the button
on the LCD
screen.
POWER switch
3 Set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME],
then touch [NEXT].
4 Set [Y] (year) with v/V.
5 Select [M] with b/B, then set the
month with v/V.
6 Set [D] (day), hour and minute in
the same way, then touch [NEXT].
1 While pressing the green button,
slide the POWER switch
repeatedly in the direction of the
arrow until the respective lamp
lights up.
(Movie): To record movies
(Still): To record still images
The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.
2 Select the desired geographical
area with v/V, then touch [NEXT].
20
7 Make sure that the clock is
correctly set, then touch .
The clock starts.
You can set any year up to the year
2037.
For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM.
For midday, set it to 12:00 PM.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
To reset the date and time
Touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS)
t [CLOCK/ LANG] t [CLOCK
SET], and set the date and time.
b Notes
• 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 built-in rechargeable battery and then
set the date and time again (p. 95).
• It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be
ready to shoot after the power is turned on. You
cannot operate your camcorder during this time.
• The lens cover opens automatically when the
power is turned on. It closes when the playback
screen is selected, or the power is turned off.
• In the setting at the time of purchase, the power
turns off automatically if you leave your
camcorder without any operation attempted for
approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power
([A.SHUT OFF], p. 69).
z Tips
• The date and time does not appear during
recording, but they are automatically recorded
on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo,” and can be
displayed during playback ([DATA CODE],
p. 65).
• Refer to page 88 for information concerning
“World time difference.”
• Instead of [DST SET], [SUMMERTIME] is
displayed for some models.
• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work
correctly, adjust the touch panel
(CALIBRATION, p. 94).
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language. To
select the screen language, touch
(HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [CLOCK/
LANG] t [ LANGUAGE SET]
(p. 68).
Step 4: Adjusting the camcorder to suit you
Adjusting 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).
290 degrees
(max.)
2180 degrees
(max.)
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 you want
to save battery power. The recorded image
will not be affected by the setting. To turn
on the LCD backlight, press and hold DISP/
BATT INFO for a few seconds until
disappears.
b Notes
• Do not press the buttons beside the LCD screen
accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD
panel.
z Tips
• If you open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the
camcorder, then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens
side, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD
screen facing out. This is convenient during
playback operations.
• Touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t
[SOUND/DISP SET] t [LCD BRIGHT]
(p. 66), and adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen.
• The information is displayed or hidden (display
y no display) each time you press DISP/
BATT INFO.
DISP/BATT INFO
190 degrees to the
camcorder
Getting Started
21
Fastening the grip belt
Fasten the grip belt and hold your
camcorder correctly.
Step 5: Inserting a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
See page 11 on the “Memory Stick” you
can use with your camcorder.
z Tips
• See following pages on the recordable time of
movies and recordable number of still images.
– Movies (p. 10)
– Still images (p. 63)
1 Open the LCD panel.
2 Slide the POWER switch
repeatedly until the (Movie)
lamp lights up.
If the power is turned off, slide the
POWER switch while pressing the
green button.
22
3 Insert the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo.”
1 Open the Memory Stick Duo cover in
the direction of the arrow.
2 Insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
into the Memory Stick Duo slot in the
right direction until it clicks.
3 Close the Memory Stick Duo cover.
Access lamp
If you insert a new “Memory Stick PRO
Duo,” the [Create a new Image
Database File.] screen appears.
To eject a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
Open the LCD panel and Memory Stick
Duo cover, lightly push the “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” in once.
b Notes
• When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your
camcorder is reading/writing data. To prevent
image data from being damaged, do not:
– eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
– remove the battery pack or AC Adaptor
– shake or knock your camcorder
• Do not open the Memory Stick Duo cover
during recording.
• If you force the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” into
the slot in the wrong direction, the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo,” the Memory Stick Duo slot, or
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.] is displayed on step 4, format the
“Memory Stick PRO Duo.” Not e that formatting
will delete all data recorded on the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo.”
• When inserting or ejecting the “Memory Stick
PRO Duo,” be careful so that the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” does not pop out and drop.
z Tips
• You can shoot still images without creating a
management file.
Getting Started
4 Touch [YES].
23
Recording/Playback
Recording and playback with ease (Easy Handycam operation)
Easy Handycam operation makes nearly all settings automatic so that you can perform
recording or playback operation without detailed settings. It also makes screen font size larger
for easy viewing.
If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG),
turn it while pressing the green button.
Recording movies
1 Slide the POWER switch
I in the direction of the
arrow until the
(Movie) lamp lights up.
2 Press EASY A.
appears on
the LCD screen.
3 Press START/STOP J (or F) to
start recording.*
[STBY] b [REC]
To stop recording, press START/STOP
again.
* The recording mode is fixed to SP (p. 59).
** The setting of [ QUALITY] is fixed to [FINE] (p. 63).
Recording still images
1 Slide the POWER switch
I in the direction of the
arrow until the (Still)
lamp lights up.
2 Press EASY A.
appears on
the LCD screen.
3
Press PHOTO H lightly to adjust
the focus
press it fully
sounds).
A
(a beep sounds), then
B
(a shutter click
**
Flashing b Lights up
24
Playing back recorded movies/still images
1 Slide the POWER switch I to turn on your camcorder.
2 Press (VIEW IMAGES) B (or G).
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears on the LCD screen (It may take some time to display
the thumbnails).
Appears with the image on each of the tab that was lastly played back/
recorded (B for the still image)
Returns to the
recording screen
Previous 6 images
Next 6 images
Returns to the
recording screen
Displays movies with HD (high
definition) image quality.*
* appears for movies with SD (standard definition) image quality. To play back movies of another
image quality, touch (HOME) E (or D) t (SETTINGS) t [VIEW IMAGES SET] t
[ / INDEX SET].
Displays still images
Playing back images from INDEX
Press (Film Roll Index) C, or touch (HOME) E (or D) t (VIEW IMAGES)
t [ INDEX].
Searches for images
by date (p. 37)
Recording/Playback
25
3 Start playback.
Movies:
Touch the or tab, and then touch the desired movie.
Toggles Play or Pause as you touch
Return (to the
VISUAL INDEX
screen)
Beginning of the
movie/previous movie
Stop (go to the
VISUAL INDEX
screen)
* The setting of [DATA CODE] is fixed to [DATE/TIME] (p. 65).
z Tips
• When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX
screen.
• You can slow down the playback speed by touching / during pause.
• You can adjust volume by touching (HOME) E (or D) t (SETTINGS) t [SOUND
SETTINGS] t [VOLUME], then touch / .
Next movie
The recording
date/time*
Reverse/ Forward
Still images:
Touch the tab, and then touch the desired still image.
Return (to the
VISUAL INDEX
screen)
Goes to the VISUAL
INDEX screen
* The setting of [DATA CODE] is fixed to [DATE/TIME] (p. 65).
Slide show (p. 38)
The recording date/
time*
Previous/Next
26
To cancel Easy Handycam operation
Press EASY A again. disappears
from the LCD screen.
Menu settings during Easy Handycam
operation
Press (HOME) E (or D) to display
the menu items available for setup changes
(p. 12, 57).
b Notes
• Most of the menu items automatically return to
the default settings. The settings of some menu
items are fixed. For details, see page 77.
• You cannot use the (OPTION) menu.
• Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to
add effects to images or change settings.
Invalid buttons during Easy Handycam
operation
You cannot use some buttons/functions
during Easy Handycam operation since
they are automatically set (p. 77). If you set
an invalid operation, [Invalid during Easy
Handycam operation] may appear.
Recording/Playback
27
Recording
(HOME) A
START/STOP B
POWER switch C
If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), turn it while pressing
the green button.
“Memory Stick” you can use with your
camcorder
• For recording movies, it is recommended
that you use a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
of 512 MB or larger marked with:
– (“Memory Stick
PRO Duo”)
– (“Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo”)
Lens cover
Opens automatically
when the power is
switched on.
(HOME) D
Access lamp
(Movie) lamp
(Still) lamp
/CHG (charge) lamp
b Notes
• When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next
movie file is created automatically.
z Tips
• You can check the free space of the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” by touching (HOME) A
(or D) t (MANAGE MEMORY
STICK) t [ INFO] (p. 55).
• A “Memory Stick PRO Duo” of up to 8
GB has been confirmed to operate
correctly with this camcorder.
• See the following URL on the “Memory
Stick” you can use on your camcorder.
http://www.sony.net/memorystick/
supporte/
PHOTO E
START/
STOP F
28
Recording movies
For the recordable time, see page 10.
Recording still images
For the recordable number of still images,
see page 63.
1 Slide the POWER switch C in the
direction of the arrow to light up
the (Movie) lamp.
2 Press START/STOP B (or F).
[STBY] t [REC]
To stop recording, press START/STOP
B (or F) again.
z Tips
• Movies are recorded in the HD (high definition)
image quality in the default setting (p. 59).
• appears when [ INDEX SET] is set to
[ON] (the default setting) during movie
recording (p. 62).
• You can switch the shooting mode by touching
(HOME) A (or D) t (CAMERA)
t [MOVIE] or [PHOTO].
• See page 31 for recording high quality still
images during movie recording.
• You can copy scenes of recorded movies as still
images on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” using
the supplied “Picture Motion Browser.” For
details, see “Picture Motion Browser Guide” on
the supplied CD-ROM.
1 Slide the POWER switch C until
the (Still) lamp lights up.
2 Press PHOTO E lightly to adjust
the focus A (a beep sounds),
then press it fully B (a shutter
click sounds).
Flashing bLights up
appears beside . When
disappears, the image has been
recorded.
Recording/Playback
29
Zooming
You can magnify images up to 10 times the
original size with the power zoom lever or
the zoom buttons beside the LCD screen.
Wider range of view:
(Wide angle)
Close view: (Telephoto)
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a
slower zoom. Move it further for a faster
zoom.
b Notes
• 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.
• You cannot change the zoom speed with the
zoom buttons beside the LCD screen.
• 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.
z Tips
• You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 60) if you
want to zoom to a level greater than 10 × when
recording movies.
Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording)
Dolby Digital 5.1ch surround sound can be
recorded with the internal microphone. You
can enjoy realistic sound when playing the
movie on devices that support 5.1ch surround
sound.
Internal microphone
Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator, 5.1ch surround sound
Glossary (p. 105)
b Notes
• 5.1ch sound is converted to 2ch when played back
on your camcorder.
• To enjoy the 5.1ch surround sound recorded,
you need a device compatible with 5.1ch
surround sound.
• You can create a disc, which contains the
movies recorded on your camcorder, on a
computer using the supplied software. If you
play the disc on a 5.1ch surround system, you
can enjoy realistic sound.
• is displayed on the screen during 5.1ch
recording/playback.
30
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