Sony HDR-FX1, HDR-FX1E Service Manual

HDR-FX1/FX1E

RMT-840

SERVICE MANUAL

Ver 1.0 2004. 09

Revision History

Photo : HDR-FX1

Link

SPECIFICATIONS

ACCESSORIES

LEVEL 1

HDR-FX1

US Model

Canadian Model

Korea model

HDR-FX1E

AEP model

UK model

Australian model

Chinese moedl

Hong Kong model

HDR-FX1/FX1E

E model

Tourist model

Z (Z310) MECHANISM

SELF DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION

• INSTRUCTION MANUAL is shown at the end of this document.

DIGITAL HD VIDEO CAMERA RECORDER

HDR-FX1/FX1E

9-876-770-41

Sony EMCS Co.

2004I1600-1

Published by DI Technical Support Section

System

Video recording system (HDV)

2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system

Video recording system (DV)

2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system

Audio recording sys t em (HDV)

Rotary heads, MPEG-1 Audio Layer2 Quantization: 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) Transfer rate: 384 kbps

Audio recording sys t em (DV)

Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1, stereo 2), 16bits (Fs 48 kHz, st er eo)

Video signal

HDR-FX1: N

TSC color, EIA standards, 1080/60i specification HDR-FX1E: PAL color, CCIR standards, 1080/50i specification

Usable cassette

Mini DV cassette with the mark printed

Tape speed (HDV)

Approx. 18.81 mm/s

Tape speed (DV)

SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/s

Recording/playback time (HDV)

60 min (using a DVM60 cassette)

Recording/playback time (DV)

SP: 60 min (using a DVM60 cassette) LP: 90 min (using a DVM60 cassette)

Fast forward/rewind time

Approx. 2 min 40 s (using a DVM60 cassette)

Viewfinder

Electric viewfinder (color)

Image device

6 mm (1/3 type) 3CCD (Charge Co upled Device) Gross: Approx. 1 120 000 p ixel s Effective: Approx. 1 070 000 pixels

Lens

Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Combined power zoom lens Filter diameter: 72 mm (2 7/ 8 in.) 12 (O ptical) F = 1.6 ~ 2.8

Focal length

4.5-54mm (3/16- 21/4in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera

32.5 - 390 mm (1 5/16 - 15 3/8 in.) (40 - 480 mm (1 5/8 - 19 in.) in 4:3 TV mode)

Color tempe r ature

[AUTO], [ONE-PUSH A/B], [INDOOR] (3 200 K), [OUTDOOR] (5 800 K)

Minimum illumination

3 lx (lux) (F 1.6)

SPECIFICATIONS

Input/Output connectors

Audio/Video input/output

Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced, sync negative Audio signal: 327 mV (at load im pedance 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Input impedance more than 47 kΩ (kilohms), Output impedance less than

2.2 kΩ (kilohms)

S VIDEO input/output

Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), un

balanced

HDR-FX1: Chrominance signal: 0.28 6 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced HDR-FX1E: Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced

COMPONENT OUTPUT jack

Y: 1 Vp-p (0.3 V sync ne gat ive)

B/PR, CB/CR: +/- 350 mVp-p, Inpu t

P impedance 75Ω (ohm s)

Headphones jack

Stereo minijack (Ø 3.5 mm)

LANC jack

Stereo mini-minij ack (Ø 2.5 mm)

MIC jack

Minijack, 0.388 mV low impedance with DC

2.5 to 3.0 V , ou tput impedance 6.8 kΩ (kilohms) (Ø 3.5 mm), Stereo type

HDV/DV jack

i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin connector S100)

LCD screen

Picture

8.8 cm (3 .5 type )

Total dot number

250 000 (1 120 × 224)

General

Power requirement s

DC 7.2 V (battery pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)

Average power consumption (when using the battery pack)

During camera recording using the viewfinder w

ith normal brig htness: HDR-FX1: HDV recordin g 7.4 W DV recording 6. 9 W HDR-FX1E: HDV recordin g 7.3 W DV recording 6. 9 W During camera reco rding using the LCD with normal brightness: HDR-FX1: H

DV recording 8.0 W DV recording 7. 5 W HDR-FX1E: HDV recordin g 7.9 W DV recording 7. 5 W

Operating temp erature

0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

Storage temperature

-20°C to + 60°C (-4°F to + 140°F)

Dimensions (approx.)

151 × 181 × 365 mm (6 × 71/4 × 14 3/8 in.) (w/h/d)

Mass (Approx.)

2.0 kg (4 lb 6 1/2 oz) main unit on ly

2.1 kg (4 lb 10 1/8 oz) including the NP-F570 rechargeable battery pack, DVM60 cassette and lens hood.

Supplied accessories

See page 4.

AC Adaptor AC-L15A/L15B

Power requirement s

AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz

Current consumption

0.35 - 0.18 A

Power consumption

18 W

Output voltage

DC 8.4 V, 1.5 A

Operating temp erature

0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

Storage temperature

-20°C to + 60°C (-4°F to + 140°F)

Dimensions (approx.)

56 × 31 × 100 mm (2 1/4 × 11/4 × 4 in.) (w/h/ d) excluding the pr ojecting parts

Mass (approx.)

190 g (6.7 oz) excluding the power cord

Rechargeable battery pack (NP-F570)

Maximum output voltage

DC 8.4 V

Output voltage

DC 7.2 V

Capacity

15.8 Wh (2 200 mAh)

Dimensions (approx.)

38.4 × 20.6 × 70.8 mm (1 9/16 × 13/16 × 2 7/8 in.) (w/h/d)

Mass (approx.)

100 g (3.5 oz)

Operating temperature

0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

Type

Lithium ion

Design and specifications are subject to ch without notice.

HDR-FX1/FX1E

— 2 —

SAFETY CHECK-OUT

After correcting the original service problem, perform the following

safety checks before releasing the set to the customer.

1. Check the area of your repair for unsoldered or poorly-soldered connections. Check the entire board surface for solder splashes and bridges.

2. Check the interboard wiring to ensure that no wires are "pinched" or contact high-wattage resistors.

3. Look for unauthorized replacement parts, particularly transistors, that were installed during a previous repair . Point them out to the customer and recommend their replacement.

SAFETY-RELATED COMPONENT WARNING!!

COMPONENTS IDENTIFIED BY MARK 0 OR DOTTED LINE WITH MARK 0 ON THE SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS AND IN THE PARTS LIST ARE CRITICAL TO SAFE OPERATION. REPLACE THESE COMPONENTS WITH SONY PARTS WHOSE PART NUMBERS APPEAR AS SHOWN IN THIS MANUAL OR IN SUPPLEMENTS PUBLISHED BY SONY.

CAUTION :

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

4. Look for parts which, through functioning, show obvious signs of deterioration. Point them out to the customer and recommend their replacement.

5. Check the B+ voltage to see it is at the values specified.

6. Flexible Circuit Board Repairing

• Keep the temperature of the soldering iron around 270˚C during repairing.

• Do not touch the soldering iron on the same conductor of the circuit board (within 3 times).

• Be careful not to apply force on the conductor when soldering or unsoldering.

ATTENTION AU COMPOSANT AYANT RAPPORT

À LA SÉCURITÉ! LES COMPOSANTS IDENTIFÉS PAR UNE MARQUE 0 SUR LES DIAGRAMMES SCHÉMATIQUES ET LA LISTE DES PIÈCES SONT CRITIQUES POUR LA SÉCURITÉ DE FONCTIONNEMENT. NE REMPLACER CES COMPOSANTS QUE PAR DES PIÈSES SONY DONT LES NUMÉROS SONT DONNÉS DANS CE MANUEL OU DANS LES SUPPÉMENTS PUBLIÉS PAR SONY.

HDR-FX1/FX1E

— 3 —

Checking supplied accessories.

Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.

AC adaptor (AC-L15A/L15B)(1)

1-477-533-51

Power cord (Main lead)(1) (US, CND model)

1-790-107-22 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (AEP model)

1-823-150-11 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (UK model)

1-757-401-11 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (E model)

1-769-608-11 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (HK model)

1-783-374-11 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (JE model)

1-790-732-12 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (KR model)

1-823-947-11 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (AUS model)

1-827-945-11 Power cord (Main lead)(1) (CH model)

1-782-476-13

Lens hood (1) 2-186-430-01

Large eyecup (1) 2-179-414-01

Lid battery case (1) 3-742-854-01

Wireless remote commander (RMT-840)(1) 1-478-953-21

R6 (size AA) batteries for the Remote Commander (2) (not supplied)

A/V connecting cable (1) 1-824-097-11

Component video cable (1) 1-829-414-21

Shoe adaptor (1) X-2023-305-1

Shoulder strap (1) 2-021-016-01

21-pin adaptor (1) (AEP, UK model) 1-770-783-21

2-pin conversion adaptor (1) (JE model) 1-569-007-12

2-pin conversion adaptor (1) (E, HK model) 1-569-008-12

Rechargeable battery pack (NP-F570)(1) (not supplied)

Cleaning cassette (DVM-4CLD J)(1) 8-883-121-64

• Abbreviation CND : Canadian model AUS : Australian model CH : Chinese model HK : Hong Kong model KR : Korea model JE : Tourist model

Other accessories

2-178-348-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)(FX1:US,CND,E,JE) 2-178-348-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH)(FX1:CND) 2-178-348-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH/PORTUGUESE)

2-178-348-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)

2-178-348-51 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (KOREAN)(FX1:JE,KR)

HDR-FX1/FX1E

(FX1:E,JE)

(FX1:E)

— 4 —

2-178-349-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)(FX1E) 2-178-349-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (RUSSIAN)(FX1E:E,JE,AEP) 2-178-349-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH/PORTUGUESE)

2-178-349-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH/GERMAN)(FX1E:AEP) 2-178-349-51 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ITALIAN/DUTCH)(FX1E:AEP)

2-178-349-61 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ARABIC/PERSIAN)(FX1E:E) 2-178-349-71 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)

2-178-349-81 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SIMPLIFIED CHINESE)

Note :

The components identified by mark 0 or dotted line with mark 0 are critical for safety. Replace only with part number specified.

Note :

Les composants identifiés par une marque 0 sont critiques pour la sécurité. Ne les remplacer que par une pièce portant le numéro spécifié.

(FX1E:AEP)

(FX1E:CH,HK)

(FX1E:E,CH,JE)

SELF-DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION

1. SELF-DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION

When problems occur while the unit is operating, the self-diagnosis function starts working, and displays on the viewfinder, or LCD screen what to do. Details of the self-diagnosis functions are provided in the Instruction manual.

Viewfinder or LCD screen

C : 3 1 : 1 1

Blinks at 3.2Hz

1 1

Repaired by:

C : Corrected by customer H : Corrected by dealer E : Corrected by service

engineer

3 1C

Block

Indicates the appropriate step to be taken. E.g.

31 ....Reload the tape.

32 ....Turn on power again.

2. SELF-DIAGNOSIS DISPLAY

When problems occur while the unit is operating, the counter of the viewfinder or LCD screen consists of an alphabet and 4-digit number , which blinks at 3.2Hz. This 5-character display indicates the “repaired by:”, “block” in which the problem occurred, and “detailed code” of the problem.

Detailed Code

Refer to page 6. Self-diagnosis Code Table.

Note: The self-diagnosis display data will be kept even if the lithium battery (BT591 of FP-959 flexible) is removed.

HDR-FX1/FX1E

— 5 —

3. SELF-DIAGNOSIS CODE TABLE

Self-diagnosis Code

Function

Repaired by:

C C C C

C C

C C C C C C

Block

04 21 22 31

31 31

31 31 31 31 31 31

Detailed

Code

00 00 00 10

20 21

22 23 24 30 40 42

Symptom/State

Non-standard battery is used. Condensation. Video head is dirty. LOAD direction. Loading does not

complete within specified time UNLOAD direction. Loading does not

complete within specified time T reel side tape slacking when unloading Winding S reel fault when counting the

rest of tape. T reel fault. S reel fault. T reel fault. FG fault when starting capstan. FG fault when starting drum. FG fault during normal drum operations. LOAD direction loading motor time-

out. UNLOAD direction loading motor

time-out. T reel side tape slacking when

unloading. Winding S reel fault when counting the

rest of tape. T reel fault.

S reel fault.

T reel fault.

FG fault when starting capstan.

FG fault when starting drum FG fault during normal drum

operations

Correction

Use the info LITHIUM battery. Remove the cassette, and insert it again after one hour. Clean with the optional cleaning cassette.

Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.

Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.

Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning. Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform

operations from the beginning. Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform

operations from the beginning.

Note: Add the sentence as follows.

If other codes are displayed, service is required. Please send the set to a specialized center.

HDR-FX1/FX1E

— 6 —

Operating Instructions

Read this first

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

2-178-348-11(1)

HDR-FX1

Read this first

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

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do no t expose t h e u nit to rain o r moisture .

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the pr esence of uninsu late d “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitut e a risk of electric shock to persons.

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and ma i n te na nce (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA

RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Lithium-Ion batter ies are recyclable. You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and r ecycling location nearest you. For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batter ies, c al l to ll fr ee 1-800-8228837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batter ies.

For customers in the U.S.A.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222SONY (7669) The number below is for the FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HDR-FX1 Responsible Party: Sony Elec tronic s I nc . Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 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 accep t an y inte r f ere nc e received, including int erference that may cause undesired operation.

Owner’s Record

The model and serial nu mb ers 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-FX1 Serial No. Model No.AC- Serial No.

CAUTION

You are cautioned tha t any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

b 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 pr ovide reasonable protection agains t harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio fre quen cy en ergy and, if not installed and used in accorda nc e w ith the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. 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 tu rnin g the eq ui pment off an d 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 to an outlet on a circuit

different from that into which the receiver is connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV

technician for help. The interface cable supplied must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits fo r a digital device pursuant to Subpa r t B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Notes on use

Your camcorder is capable of recording in both HDV and DV formats. You can use only mini DV cassettes in your camcorder.

The HDV standards

• Digital high-definition (HD) vide o si gna ls are recorded and played back on a DV format cassette.

• HDV signals are compressed in MPEG2 format, which is adopted in BS (br oadcast satellite) digit al and terrestrial digital HDTV broadcastings and in Blu-ray disc recorders.

Tip

• Your camcorder adopts the HDV1080i specification, which utilizes 1080 effective scanning lines, within the HDV standards, and records pictures at the image bit rate of about 25 Mbps. The i.LINK Interface is adopted as the digital interface enabling a digital connection with TVs and personal computers compatible with th e HDV format.

Recording

• Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound ar e recor de d 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 camc or der, storage med ia, etc.

• TV color systems differ depending on th e 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 m ay be contrary to the copyright laws.

The LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens

• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely hi gh- pr e ci sion technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effec tive use. However, there may be some tiny black points and / or bright points (white, red, blue , or gr een in color) that appear constantly on the LCD scr een a nd the viewfinder. These points are norm al results of the ma nufacturing process and do not affect the recordin g in an y w ay.

• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder, or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause malfunctions. Be careful when placing the camera near a window or outdoors.

,continued

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

Playing back HDV tapes on other devices

A tape recorded in the HDV format cannot be played back on a d evi ce that is not compatibl e with the HDV format. The screen appears blue. Check the conte nt s of tapes by playing them back on this camcorder prior to playing them back on other devices.

Connecting other devices

Before connecting your camcorder to other device such as a VCR or a comp uter with an i.LINK cable , be sure to insert the conn ector plug in th e p roper direction. If you insert the connector plug forcibly in the wrong direction, the terminal may be damaged, or this may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.

Using this manual

The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used on this manual are captured using a digital still camera, and thus may ap pe ar different from what you see.

Using the camcorder

• To ensure a good grip, fasten the grip belt as shown in the following illustra tion.

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder

LCD panel

Battery pack

Microphone

• You can change the language to be used for screen display on your camcorder (p. 18).

Jack holder

Table of Contents

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

Quick Start Guide

Recording movies ...................................................................................... 8

Getting started

Step 1: Checking supplied items.............................................................. 10

Step 2: Charging the battery pack............................................................ 11

Using an outside power sourc e .................................................................................14

Step 3: Turning the power on................................................................... 14

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder...................................... 15

Adjusting the LCD panel ...........................................................................................15

Adjusting the viewfinder .................................................................................. ......... .15

Step 5: Setting the date and time............................................................. 16

Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape.............................................................. 17

Step 7: Setting the screen language........................................................ 18

Recording

Recording movies .................................................................................... 20

Recording for a longer time ................................................................................ 22

Using zoom .............................................................. ................................................. 22

Recording in mirror mode ......................................................................................... 23

Displaying the recording setup in fo r mation – Status check ............................... ....... 24

Adjusting the exposure............................................................................. 25

Adjusting the exposure fo r ba ck l it subjects ........... ............... ..................................... 25

Recording the subject lit by strong light – SPOT LIGHT . .......................................... 25

Adjusting the white balance ......................................................................................26

Recording using manual adjustments...................................................... 27

Adjusting the iris ........................................................................................................ 28

Adjusting the gain .....................................................................................................28

Adjusting the shutter speed ......................................................................................29

Adjusting the volume of light – ND FILTER .............................................................. 30

Displaying the zebra pattern to adjust the brightness ...............................................31

,continued

Adjusting the focus................................................................................... 32

Adjusting the focus manually .....................................................................................32

Enhancing the outline to focus – PEAKING ..............................................................33

Customizing the picture quality or sound ................................................. 34

Customizing the picture quality – PICTURE PROFILE .............................................34

Adjusting the audio recording level – Microphone volume level ................................36

Recording a picture using various features.............................................. 37

Developing scenes smoothly – Shot transition ..........................................................37

Fading in and out of a scene– FADER ....................................................... .. ..... .... .. ..38

Recording an index signal at the beginning of recording ...........................................39

Recording in 16:9 wide rec mode ....................................................... 40

Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes – Rec Review ................. 41

Playback

Viewing movies ........................................................................................ 42

Playing back in various modes ..................................................................................43

Various playback functions ...................................................................... 44

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording – END SEARCH .............44

Displaying the screen indicators ................................................................................44

Displaying the date/time and camera settings data – Data code ..............................44

Displaying the video information – Status check .......................................................45

Playing the picture on a TV...................................................................... 46

Viewing the picture on a high definition TV ...............................................................46

Viewing the picture on a 16:9 TV or a 4:3 TV ............................................................48

Locating a scene on a tape for playback.................................................. 49

Searching quickly for a desired scene – Zero set memory ........................................49

Searching for a scene by date of recording – Date search .......................................50

Searching for a recording start point – Index search .................................................50

Advanced operations

Troubleshooting

Using the Menu

Selecting menu items .........................51

Using the (CAMERA SET) menu

– STDYSHOT TYP/FRAME REC,

etc. ...............................................52

Using the (AUDIO SET) menu

– AUDIO MIX, etc. ........................56

Using the (LCD/VF SET) menu

– LCD COLOR, etc. .....................58

Using the (IN/OUT REC) menu

– REC FORMAT/TV TYPE, etc. ...59

Using the (OTHERS) menu

– CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME,

etc. ...............................................62

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

Assigning the functions ......................68

Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to another tape ....................70

Recording pictures from a VCR

or TV ............................................74

Connecting to a computer ..................77

Dubbing sound to a recorded

tape ........................................78

Connecting an analog VCR to the

computer via your camcorde r

– Signal conversion function ........81

Troubleshooting .................................83

Warning indicators and me ss age s .....88

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad ............90

HDV format and recording/playback ..91 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery

pack ..............................................92

About i.LINK .......................................94

Maintenance and precautions ............95

Specification .......................................98

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls ...........100

Index ................................................107

Note on the icons used in this manual

: Features available for the HDV

format only.

: Features av ailable for the DV format onl y.

Quick Start Guide

Recording movies

1 Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder.

To charge the battery, see page 11.

Press the battery pack and slide it down.

Battery Pack

2 Insert a cassette into the camcorder.

a Slide the OPEN/

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

The cassette compartment comes out automatically.

OPEN/EJECT lever

Quick Start Guide

b Insert the cassette with

its window-side facing out, then push the center of the back of the cassette.

Window-side

c Press on the

cassette compartment.

Close the cassette lid after the cassette co m partment slides back in by itself.

3 Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen.

The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page16. The pictures are recorded in the HDV format in t he default setting. To record in the DV format, see page 60.

a Open the hood shutter. b Open the LCD panel and

adjust the angle.

c While pressing the green

button, set the POWER switch to CAMERA.

d Press REC START/STOP.

Recording starts. To change to standby mode, pr es s REC START/STOP again.

4 View the recorded picture on the LCD screen.

Quick Start Guide

a While pressing the green

button, set the POWER switch to VCR.

b Press m (rewind). c Press N (play) to start the

playback.

To stop, press x (stop).

To turn off the power, set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

Quick Start Guide

Getting started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

Wireless Remote Commander (1)

Make sure you have followi ng items supplied with your camc order.

The number in pa rentheses indi cates the numbe r of that item supplied.

AC Adapt or (1)

Power cord (1)

Lens hood (1)

This is attached to your camcorder.

A/V connecting cable (1)

Component video cable (1)

Shoe adaptor (1)

To attach it to your cam corder, see page 104.

Rechargeable battery pa ck NP - F570 (1)

Size AA (R6) batteries (2)

To insert the batteries in the Remote Commander, see pa ge 105.

Cleaning cassette (1)

b Note

• If you attach an optical filter (optional) or so, remove the lens hood.

Large eyecup (1)

To attach it to your camcorder, see pag e 16.

Getting started

Shoulder strap (1)

To attach it to your cam corder, see page 101.

Operating Instructions (This manual) (1)

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

You can charge the battery by attaching the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) to your camcorde r .

b Note

• You cannot use batter ie s othe r tha n the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) (p. 92).

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

• Use a nearby wall outlet when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet immediately if a ny ma lf unction occurs.

Battery pack

1 Press the battery pack and slide it

down.

Getting started

2 With the b mark on the DC plug

facing the battery pack, connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

b mark

DC IN jack

Power cord

To the wall outlet

AC Adaptor

DC plug

3 Connect the power cord to the AC

Adaptor.

4 Connect the power cord to the wall

outlet.

,continued

Getting started

5 Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

The CHG (charg e) lamp lights up and charging starts.

To check the remaining b attery – Battery Info

After charging the battery

The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack.

To remove the battery pack

Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

1 2 Press BATT RELEASE and slide the

battery pack up.

You can check the battery’s curr ent charge l evel and its current remaining record in g time both during charging or when the power is turned off. The remaining recording time in the selected recording form at appears.

1 Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). 2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the

angle.

3 Pr ess DISPLAY/BATT INFO.

The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the butt on pres sed to vi ew it for a bout 20 seconds.

BATTERY INFO

BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL

REC TIME AVAILABLE

LCD SCREEN: VIEWFI NDER:

A Battery charge level: Displays

approximate remaining amount of power left in the batt ery pack.

B Possible recording time using the LCD

panel.

C Possible recording time using the

viewfinder.

50%0% 100%

110

min

125 min

Getting started

Charging time

Approximate number of minutes required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack at 25°C (77°F). (10 – 30° C (50 – 86°F) recommended.)

Battery pack

NP-F570 (supplied) 260 NP-F770 370 NP-F970 485

b Note

• NP-F330/F530/500/510/710 battery packs cannot be used with your camcorder.

Recording time

Approximate nu m ber of minutes availabl e when you use a full y charged batter y pack at 25°C (77°F).

Recording in the HDV format

Battery pack Continuous

recording time

NP-F570 (supplied)

NP-F770 235

NP-F970 360

110 125 125

260 255

390 385

Recording in the DV format

Battery pack Continuous

recording time

NP-F570 (supplied)

NP-F770 255

NP-F970 380

120 130 130

275 275

410 410

Typical recording time

60 65 65

130 130 130

200 205 205

Typical recording time

65 65 65

140 140 140

210 215 215

• The top figures show an approximate number of minutes when the LCD BACKLIGHT switch is set to ON.

• The middle figures show an approximate number of minutes when the LCD BACKLIGHT switch is set to OFF.

• The bottom figures show an approximate number of minutes when recording with the viewfind er.

• “Typical recording time” me ans an approximate number of minutes when recording while you repeatedly record, start/stop, move the POWER switch to change the power mode, and zoom. The actual battery life may be shorter.

z Tip

• You can also use NP-F550/F730/F750/F960 battery packs. After charging these battery pa ck s, m ak e a trial recording with them before an actual recording to see the recording t ime. The recording time varies depending on the environment where the camcorder is used. Press DISPL AY/BATT INFO to disp lay the recording time on the screen.

Playing time

Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25°C (77°F).

HDV format pictures

Battery pack LCD panel

opened*

NP-F570 (supplied)

NP-F770 360 400 NP-F970 545 605

175 195

DV format pictures

Battery pack LCD panel

opened*

NP-F570 (supplied)

NP-F770 415 480 NP-F970 630 725

* With th e LCD BACKLIGHT switch se t to O N .

b Note

• The power will not be supplied from the battery pack when the AC Adaptor is conn ected to the DC IN ja ck of your camcorder, even if its power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet.

• The recording and playback time wil l be shor te r when you use your camcorder in low temperatur e .

200 235

LCD panel closed

Getting started

,continued

Getting started

• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or the battery informat ion w ill not be correctly displayed in following conditions. – The ba tte r y pa ck is not attached corr e ctly. – The batter y pa ck is dam a ge d. – The batter y pa ck is fully discharged. (For Battery

information only.)

Using an outside power source

Step 3: Turning the power on

You need to set the POWER switch to the respective power mode to record or play back pictures. When using this camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 16).

You can use the AC Adaptor as the power source when you do not want the battery to run out. While you are using the AC Adaptor, the battery pack will not lo se i ts c harge e v en when it is attached to your cam corder.

PRECAUTION

Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected t o the wall outle t via th e AC Adapt or.

Connect your camcorder as shown in “Step 2: Charging t he battery pack” (p. 11).

While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch.

The power turns on.

• CAM ER A : To record pictures.

• VCR: To play or edit picture s.

To turn off the power

Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

Getting started

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder

Adjusting the LCD panel

You can adjust the angle and brightness of the LCD panel to meet various recording situations. Even when there are obstruc t ions between you and the subje ct, you can check the subject on the LCD screen during recording by adjusting the angl e of the LCD pa n el.

z Tip

• If you rotate the LCD panel until it faces down, you can close and restore the LCD panel to the original position with the LCD screen facing out.

• If you are using the battery pack for power source , you can select the brightness by setting [LCD BL LEVEL] on the [LCD/VF SET] menu

• When you use your camcorder in bright c onditions using the battery pack, set the LCD BACK LIGHT switch to OFF ( appears). This position saves battery power.

• Even if you change the brightness of the LCD panel, the brightness of recorded pictures is not affected.

• You can turn off the operation confirmation beep by setting [BEEP] on the (OTHERS) menu to

(p. 62).

[OFF]

(p. 58).

Adjusting the viewfinder

You can view images using the viewfinder when you close the LCD panel. Use the viewfinder wh en the batter y is running ou t, or when the screen is hard to see.

Getting started

Up to about 100 degrees

Open the LCD panel 180 de grees, then rotate it to the desired position.

180 degrees

To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen

Adjust the brightness by pressing LCD BRIGHT – or +.

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

1 Lift up the viewfinder. 2 Adjust the viewfinder lens adjustment

lever until the picture is clear.

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 larg e eyecup. To attach the large eyecup, stre tch it a l itt le and align it with the gr oove of the viewfinder, then slide it up to the end. You can attach the large eyecup facing either the right or left side.

Step 5: 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 eve ry t im e yo u tur n on your camcorder.

Large eyecup (supplied)

z Tip

• To select the brightness of the viewfinder backlight when you are using the battery pack, select (LCD/VF SET) menu, then [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 58).

b Note

• If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable button-t ype

battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable button-type battery (p. 97) and then set the date and time again.

POWER switch

1 Turn on your camcorder (p. 14).

Getting started

2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the

angle.

Proceed to step 6 when you set the clock for the first time.

3 Press MENU.

CAMERA SET WB PRESET AE RESPONSE GAIN SETUP SHOT TRANS STEADYSHOT STDYSHOT TYP FLCKR REDUCE

[MENU]:END

Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape

You can use mini DV cassettes only. For details on these cassettes (such as writeprotection), see page 91.

4 Select the (OTHERS) menu by

turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

OTHERS RETURN ASSIGN BTN CLOCK SET

WORLD TI ME

LANGUAGE BEEP REC LAMP FORMAT LAMP

[MENU]:END

5 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning the

SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

120min

CLOCK SET

AMDMY 12100:JAN2004

[MENU]:CANCEL

6 Set [Y] (year) by turning the SEL/

PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

120min

CLOCK SET

b Note

• Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This may cause a malfunction of your cam co rd er.

1 Slide the OPEN/EJECT lever in

the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

OPEN/EJECT lever

Lid

Getting started

AMDMY 12100:JAN2004

[MENU]:CANCEL

You can set any yea r up to the year 2079.

7 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour and

minute in the same way as was done in step 6, then press the dial.

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

The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up.

,continued

Getting started

2 Insert a cassette with its window-side

facing out.

Window-side

Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly.

3 Press on the cassette

compartment.

The cassette compartment automatically slides back in.

Step 7: Setting the screen language

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

POWER switch

1 Turn on your camcorder.

4 Close the lid.

To eject the cassette

Slide the OPEN/EJ E CT lever in the

direction of the arrow and open the lid.

The cassette compartment automatically comes out.

2 T ake out the casset te, then press .

The cassette compartment automatically slides back in.

3 Close the lid.

Getting started

2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the

angle.

3 Press MENU. 4 Select the (OTHERS) menu by

turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

OTHERS STBY RETURN ASSIGN BTN CLOCK SET WORLD TI ME LANGUAGE BEEP REC LAMP FORMAT LAMP

[MENU]:END

5 Select [LANGUAGE] by turning the

SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

ENGLISH

[

ENG

SIMP FRANÇAIS ESPAÑOL PORTUGUÊS

0:00:00

]

LANGUAGE

[MENU]:END

6 Select the desir ed lang uage by t urnin g

the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

7 Press MENU to hide the menu screen.

z Tip

• Your camcorder offers [ENG [SIMP]] (simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue among the options.

Getting started

Recording

Recording movies

You can record movies in either the HDV or the DV format. Before recording, follow steps 1 to 7 in “Getting started” (p. 10 - p. 18). Movies will be recorded along with stere o sound.

Camera recording la mp

Format lamps

POWER switch and

Camera recording lamp

1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.

REC START/STOP

3 While pressing the green button, set

the POWER switch to CAMERA.

The HDV format lamp lights up and your camcorder is se t t o recording standb y ( the default setting). It takes some time f or your camcorder to be set to recording standby.

4 Select the recording format.

To record in the HDV format

Select the (IN/OUT REC) menu , [REC FORMAT], then [HDV1080i] (the default setting)(p. 60).

appears on the LCD screen and

your camcorder is set to recording standby .

To record in the DV format

Select the (IN/OUT REC) menu , [REC FORMAT], then [DV] (p. 60).

appears on the LCD screen, the DV format lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to recording standby.

2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the

angle.

Recording

5 Press REC START/STOP.

Recording starts. [REC] appears on the LCD screen and the Camera recording lamps light up. Press REC START/STOP again to stop recording.

To turn the power off

Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

To record from a low-angle

Use the REC START/STO P button on the handle after releasing the HOLD lever. To view the picture during recording, face the LCD panel or the viewfinder upward, or face the LCD screen down, then clos e and restore the LCD panel to the original position with t he LCD screen facing out.

HOLD lever

Indicators displayed during recording

The indicators will not be recorded on the tape. Date/time and the camera settings data (p. 44) will not be displayed during recording.

min

HDV1080

REC

A Recording fo rm at ( or )

Recording mo de (SP or LP) is also displayed in the DV format.

B Remaining battery

The indicated time may not be correct, depending on the environment where you are using your cam corder. When you open or close the LCD pane l, it t akes about 1 minute to display the correct remaining battery time.

0:00:00

min

C Recording status ( [S TBY ] (standby) or

[REC] (recordin g))

D Time code or tape counte r (h our:

minute: second)

The time code of this camcorder utilizes the drop-frame s ystem.

E Recording capacity of the tape (p. 64) F Microphone volume level (p. 36) G Center marker (p. 55)

The center marker appears at the center of the screen when [CENTER MARKR] on the (CAMERA SET) menu is set to [ON]. It helps composing pictures on the screen.

H ND filter

If [ND1] or [ND2] flashes on the screen, activate the ND filter (p. 30).

b Note

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

• When the camcorder is left in recording standby for more than about 5 minutes, your camcorder exits the recording standby mode (the drum stops rotating) to prevent tape wear and battery loss. Sinc e th e power does not turn off, you can restart recording by pressing REC START/STOP again. It takes some time to restart reco r ding, but this not a malfunction.

z Tip

• You can record the color bars on a tape. If you record movies including the color bars, you can a djust the color while observing the color bar s whe n you are viewing the pictures on a TV or monitor. To display the color bars, press BARS. Press BARS again to hide the color bars.

• To ensure smooth transition on a tape from the last recorded scene to the next, note the fo llowing. – 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 the HDV format and the

DV format on the same tape.

– Do not record pictures in SP mode and LP mode on

the same tape.

– Avoid st opping then recording a movie in the LP

mode.

• The recording time, date , and the ca m er a se ttings data are recorded automat ical ly on the tape without being dis p layed on the scr e en. You can view this information during playback by pressing DATA CODE (p. 44).

Recording

,continued

Recording

• Following functions may not work correctly with the tape recorded in the HDV format and the DV format mixed: – Zero set memory – Date search – Index search

Recording for a longer time

On the (IN/OUT REC) menu, select [ REC MODE], then [LP] (p. 60). In the LP mode, you can record 1.5 times longer than you can when record ing in the SP mode. A tape recorded in the LP mode should be played back only on this camcorder.

Using zoom

Zoom levers are mounted on the camera itself and on the handle. Occasional use of the zoom is effective, but use it sparingly for the best results.

1 Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/

REMOTE.

2 Press the power zoom lever slightly for

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

To record a wider ra nge of view

Press the W side of th e power zoom lever. The subject appear s farther away (Wide angle).

To record a closer view

Press the T side of the power zoom lever. The subject appears closer (Telephoto).

Using the handle zoom

You can adjust the zoom speed with the handle zoom switch when using the handle zoom lever.

Handle zoom lever

Handle zoom switch

1 cm (approx. 1/2 inch)*

80 cm (approx. 2 5/8 feet)*

* The minimum distance required between your

camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus with that side of the le ver.

Recording

Zoom ring

1 Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/

REMOTE.

2 Set the handle zoom switch to H (high) or

L (low).

You can set t he zoom speed of H or L of the handle zoom lever in [HANDLE ZOOM] on the (CAMERA SET) menu. In the default setting, [H] is set t o 6, a nd [L] is se t to 3 (p. 54).

3 Press the handle zoom lever to zoom in or

out.

b Note

• You cannot adjust the zoom spe e d by pres sing the handle zoom lever. Change the zoom speed by setting [HANDLE ZOOM] (p. 54).

• You cannot use the handle zoom lever when the handle zoom swi tc h is set to OFF.

• You cannot change the zoom spe ed of the power zoom lever on the camera itself by switching the handle zoom switch.

Using the zoom ring

You can zoom at the desired speed. Fine adjustment is al so possible.

1 S et the ZOOM switch to RING. 2 R otate the zoom ring to zoom.

b Note

• Rotate the zoom ring at an appr opr ia te spe e d. Zooming may not be able to catch up the rotating speed of the ring if it is rotated too fast.

• When you zoom us in g th e Rem ot e Co mma n der , set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/REMOTE.

• Zoomed position and picture a ngle change wh en the ZOOM switch is switched from LEVER/REMOTE to RING.

• If you rotate the zoom r ing fast, motor noise will become louder as the zoom motor rotates at high speeds. If the mot or noise is so loud that can be recorded, use the zoom lever or the Remote Commander.

Recording in mirror mode

You can turn the LCD panel towards the subject so that you and your subject can share the image being recorded. You can also utilize this function wh en recording yo urself, or to keep the attention of small children attracted to the camcorder while you record them.

Up to about 100 degrees

Open the LCD panel 180 degrees, then rotate it towards the subject until it clicks.

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

Recording

Displaying the recording setup information – Status check

You can check the setup value of the following items in the standby mode or during recording.

• Audio setup such as microphone volume level

(p. 36)

• Output setup ([COMPONENT], [i.LINK

CONV], and [TV TYPE] settings) (p. 60)

• Functions assigned to the ASSIGN buttons

(p. 68)

• Pictur e pr ofile setup (p. 34)

b Note

• Information of the picture profile setup does not appear when it is set to [ O FF].

1 Press STATUS CHECK. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to

display the desired item.

Each time you turn the dial, the items appear in the following order: AUDIO t OUTPUT t ASSIGN t PICT. PROFILE

To turn off the display of the recording setup information

Press STATUS CHECK.

Recording

+ 213 hidden pages