Sony HDR-FX1000 User Manual
4-111-862-11(1)
© 2008 Sony Corporation
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
HDR-FX1000
Enjoying pictures with
high definition quality
12
Getting Started 16
Recording/
Playback
28
Using the Menu 62
Dubbing/Editing 84
Using a Computer 91
Troubleshooting 94
Additional Information 107
Quick Reference 123
Spanish Quick Guide/
Guía rápida en español
135
http://www.sony.net/
Printed on 70% or more recycled paper
using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)
-free vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
Additional information on this product and answers
to frequently asked questions can be found at our
Customer Support Website.
US
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.
Never expose the battery pack to
temperature above 60 ° C (140 ° F), such as
in a car parked in the sun or under direct
sunlight.
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.
• This set should be operated only from the type of power source indicated
on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of electrical power
supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. For
those sets designed to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer
to the operating instructions.
• For connection to a supply not in the U.S.A., use an attachment plug
adapter of the proper configuration for the power outlet.
4
Read this first
Before operating the unit, please read this
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future
reference.
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.
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.
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-FX1000
Serial No.
Model No. ACNo.
For customers in the U.S.A.
If you have any questions about this
product, you may call:
Sony Customer Information Center 1-800222-SONY (7669).
The number below is for the FCC related
matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: HDR-FX1000
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.
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.
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:
Continued ,
5
Read this first (Continued)
– 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 w ith 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.
Notes on use
Types of cassette you can use in your
camcorder
You can use mini DV cassettes marked
with
support the Cassette Memory function
(
p. 110).
Types of “Memory Stick” you can use
in your camcorder
You can use “Memory Stick” that have the
logo shown below (
– (“Memory Stick Duo”)
– (“Memory Stick
PRO Duo”)
– (“Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo”)
“Memory Stick Duo”
(This size can be used with your camcorder.)
. Your camcorder does not
p. 111).
• You cannot use any type of memory card
except “Memory Stick Duo.”
• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” can be used
only with “Memory Stick PRO”
compatible equipment.
• Do not attach a label or the like on a
“Memory Stick Duo” or a “Memory Stick
Duo” Adaptor.
When using a “Memory Stick Duo”
with “Memory Stick” compatible
equipment
Be sure to insert the “Memory Stick Duo”
into the “Memory Stick Duo” Adaptor.
“Memory Stick Duo” Adaptor
Using the camcorder
• Do not hold the camcorder by the
following part.
ViewfinderLens hood
with lens cover
LCD panel Microphone
“Memory Stick”
(You cannot use with your camcorder.)
6
b Notes
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof
or waterproof.
See “About handling of your camcorder”
(p. 115).
• Do not connect cables to your camcorder
with their terminals placed the wrong
way. Squeezing the terminals into your
camcorder's jacks may damage them or
results in a malfunction of your
camcorder.
About menu items, LCD panel,
viewfinder, and lens
• A menu item that is grayed out is not
available under the current recording or
playback conditions.
• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are
manufactured using extremely highprecision technology, so over 99.99% of
the pixels are operational for effective
use. However, there may be some tiny
black points and/or bright points (white,
red, blue, or green in color) that appear
constantly on the LCD screen and the
viewfinder. These points are normal
results of the manufacturing process and
do not affect the recording in any way.
Black point
White, red, blue
or green points
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
pack is beyond the safely operable range.
In this case, a message appears on the
screen or in the viewfinder (
p. 105).
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.
On recording
• Before starting to record, test the
recording function to make sure the
picture and sound are recorded without
any problems.
• Compensation for the contents of
recordings cannot be provided, even if
recording or playback is not possible due
to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage
media, etc.
• TV color systems differ depending on the
countries/regions. To view your
recordings on a TV, you need 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 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.
Continued ,
7
Read this first (Continued)
On playing back HDV tapes on other
devices
You cannot play back a tape recorded in the
HDV format on DV format video cameras
or on mini DV players.
Check the contents of tapes by playing
them back on this camcorder prior to
playing them back on other devices.
Note on the icons used in this manual
format only
format only
i.LINK cable is connected.
an ASSIGN button.
About this manual
• The images of the LCD screen and the
• The on-screen displays in each local
• Design and specifications of recording
Features available for the HDV
Features available for the DV
This function that can be used when
The function that can be assigned to
viewfinder used in this manual for
illustration purposes are captured using a
digital still camera, and therefore may
appear different.
language are used for illustrating the
operating procedures. Change the screen
language before using your camcorder if
necessary (
media and other accessories are subject to
change without notice.
p. 25).
8
Table of Contents
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................................................3
Read this first ...........................................................................................5
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
Trying out the new HDV format! .............................................................12
Features of this camcorder .....................................................................13
Handy Functions for Recording ..............................................................14
Viewing video recorded in the HDV format! ...........................................15
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................16
Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover .....................................17
Step 3: Charging the battery pack ..........................................................18
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly .....21
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................22
Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................24
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” ..................................26
Changing the language setting .......................................................... 25
Recording/Playback
Recording ...............................................................................................28
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings .............................31
Adjusting the zoom ............................................................................. 31
Adjusting the focus manually.............................................................. 32
Adjusting the image brightness .......................................................... 33
Adjusting to Natural Color (White balance)......................................... 36
Customizing the picture quality (Picture profile) ................................. 37
Adjusting the volume .......................................................................... 42
Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons .....................................44
Recording an index signal .................................................................. 45
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review).............. 45
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording
(End search) ....................................................................................... 45
Using the Shot transition .................................................................... 46
Playback .................................................................................................49
Continued ,
9
Table of Contents (Continued)
Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder ...............................52
Locating a scene on a tape ....................................................................54
Playing the picture on a TV .................................................................... 56
Changing the screen ........................................................................... 52
Displaying recording data (Data code) ............................................... 52
Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ................. 53
Checking the remaining battery (Battery Info) .................................... 53
Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) ................. 54
Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ................ 55
Searching for a recording start point (Index search) .......................... 55
Using the Menu
Using the menu items ........................................................... 62
Menu items ............................................................................................64
(CAMERA SET) menu ....................................................................66
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (GAIN SETUP/
BACK LIGHT/STEADYSHOT, etc.)
(AUDIO SET) menu .......................................................................73
Settings for the audio recording (DV AU.MODE/DV AUDIO MIX, etc.)
(DISPLAY SET) menu .....................................................................74
Display settings of the display and the viewfinder (MARKER/VF B.LIGHT/DISP
OUTPUT, etc.)
(IN/OUT REC) menu ....................................................................... 77
Recording settings, input and output settings (VCR HDV/DV/DV REC MODE/
DV WIDE REC/ TV TYPE, etc.)
(MEMORY SET) menu .................................................................... 80
Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (ALL ERASE/FORMAT, etc.)
(OTHERS) menu ............................................................................. 81
Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (QUICK REC/BEEP,
etc.)
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. ............................................... 84
Recording pictures from a VCR ............................................................88
Using a Computer
Copying movies on a tape to a computer .............................................. 91
Copying still images to a computer ........................................................ 93
10
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ......................................................................................94
Warning indicators and messages .......................................................104
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ..............................................................107
Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................110
Specifications .......................................................................................119
HDV format and recording/playback ................................................ 110
About the “Memory Stick” ................................................................. 111
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ............................................. 112
About i.LINK...................................................................................... 113
About x.v.Color ................................................................................. 114
About handling of your camcorder ................................................... 115
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................123
Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder ......................................128
Index .....................................................................................................131
Spanish Quick Guide/Guía rápida en español 135
11
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
Trying out the new HDV format!
High image quality
Being HDV format compliant, your camcorder is ready to shoot crystal clear, high-definition
images.
What is the HDV format?
The HDV format is a video format for shooting and playing back high definition images on
popular DV standard cassette tapes.
• Your camcorder adopts the HDV1080i
specification, which utilizes 1,080 effective
scanning lines, within the HDV standards, and
records pictures at the image bit rate of about 25 Mbps.
• These operating instructions refer to the HDV1080i specification as HDV format unless there is a need
to specify.
Why shoot in the HDV format?
By moving to digital video, like the rest of the world, you will be able to capture important
moments in your life in high quality digital HDV format, allowing you to relive them.
Your camcorder’s down convert function converts pictures in HDV format to SD (standard
definition) quality for viewing on older wide TV formats, and on 4:3 aspect ratio TVs when
a high definition TV set is not available. This provides an easy path to HDV format video.
1,080 effective
scanning lines
• The down convert function converts HDV format video to DV for playback or editing when your
camcorder is connected to a TV or VCR that is not HDV1080i compliant. The resulting image is
displayed in SD (standard definition).
12
Features of this camcorder
The HDV1080i specification digital HD video camera recorder has the following features to
enable you to record beautiful scenery while traveling, etc., in high definition quality.
1 3-ClearVid CMOS sensor system installed
This camcorder is fitted with the 3-ClearVid CMOS sensor system. Superb spectroscopic
characteristics and high definition are achieved by the use of three ClearVid CMOS sensors
developed by Sony for high definition, enabling reproduction of digital high definition with
excellent sensitivity and color reproducibility.
2 20 × optical zoom G Lens installed
The 20 × optical zoom G Lens enables you to zoom-in on distant objects and record in high
definition quality.
3 Realistic sound recording with built-in high performance microphone
The high performance stereo microphone built into this camcorder enables highly realistic
sound recording.
4 Detailed manual settings for serious filming
Extensive manual setting functions allow you to shoot high definition videos with customized
settings.
- The zoom ring, focus ring and iris ring provide full manual control.
- You can manually fine-adjust the shutter speed, white balance and gain.
5 Connecting to other devices
Superb external connectability is provided by an i.LINK (HDV/DV) jack, an A/V Remote
Connector (for component A/V cable, A/V connecting cable with S
connecting cable), an HDMI OUT jack, a LANC jack and a headphone jack on the rear of
your camcorder, and a “Memory Stick Duo” slot on the right side.
VIDEO and A/V
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
13
Handy Functions for Recording
Still image Dual Rec (p. 30)
You can record 1.2M still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” during recording movie.
Smooth slow recording (p. 69)
Moving subjects can be shot in smooth moving slow-motion.
Saving Camera profile (p. 81)
Two settings profiles, including brightness, color, etc., can be saved in your camcorder. This
enables you to use saved settings data to quickly reproduce suitable shooting settings.
Iris ring (p. 33)
You can adjust the brightness using the iris ring. You can select either [IRIS] or
[EXPOSURE] for the brightness adjustment with the iris ring.
14
Viewing video recorded in the HDV format!
Viewing on a high definition TV (p. 57)
Pictures recorded in the HDV format can be played back as crisp HD (high definition)
picture on a high definition TV.
• For details on HDV1080i specification compliant TVs, see page 58.
Viewing on a 16:9 TV/4:3 TV (p. 59)
Your camcorder can down convert video recorded in the HDV format to SD (standard
definition) quality for playback on a conventional TV.
Dubbing to other video equipment (p. 84)
x Connecting to an HDV1080i specification
An optional i.LINK cable allows you to copy pictures in HD (high definition) quality.
x Connecting to HDV1080i non-compliant specification
Use your camcorder to convert HDV format video to SD (standard definition) quality to
enable copying.
Connecting to a computer (p. 91)
x Copying movie from tape to a computer
You can copy movie to a computer, and save to DVD from copying movie.
The computer will need to be set up differently depending on whether HDV or DV format
video is to be copied. See
page 91 for details.
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
15
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure that you have following items
supplied with your camcorder.
The number in the parentheses indicates the
number of that item supplied.
• The cassette tape and “Memory Stick Duo” are
not included. See
types of cassette tapes and “Memory Stick Duo”
that you can use on your camcorder.
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 18)
Power cord (mains lead) (1) (p. 18)
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
(p. 54, 127)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
Component A/V cable (1) (p. 56)
p. 6, p. 110 and p. 111 for
Large eyecup (1) (p. 23)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-F570 (1)
p. 18, 112)
(
Lens hood with lens cover (1) (p. 17)
This lens hood is pre-mounted.
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 56, 84)
16
Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover
To open or close the shutter of the
Lens hood with lens cover
Move the lens cover lever up or down to
open or close the lens cover.
Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to
open the lens cover, and move the
lever to CLOSE to close the lens
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.
cover.
Getting Started
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.
17
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. 112).
DC plug
AC Adaptor
DC IN jack
To the wall outlet
(wall socket)
Power cord (mains lead)
1 Press the battery pack against the
back of your camcorder and slide
it down.
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).
5 Set the POWER switch to
OFF (CHG).
The CHG lamp lights up and charging
starts.
18
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 battery info function (
p. 53)
To remove the battery pack
Set 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 will not be used for a
while, run down the battery and store it. See
page 113 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
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
b Notes
• You cannot use the NP-F330 battery pack with
this camcorder.
Recording in the HDV format
Continuous
Battery pack
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 290 145
NP-F970 430 215
Recording in the DV format
Battery pack
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 300 150
NP-F970 450 225
Top: When the LCD backlight turns on.
Bottom: Recording time when recording with
the viewfinder while the LCD panel is
closed.
* Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the
power on/off and zooming.
recording
time
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
135 65
140 70
295 145
445 220
Typical
recording
time*
145 70
150 75
310 155
465 230
Getting Started
Continued ,
19
Step 3: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
HDV format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 415 435
NP-F970 630 660
DV format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 445 470
NP-F970 675 705
* When the LCD backlight turns on.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, set the
POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
• The CHG lamp flashes during charging, or
Battery Info (
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 battery pack is too cold.
Replace the battery pack, or remove it and put
it in a warm place.
– The battery pack is too hot.
Replace the battery pack, or remove it 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).
p. 53) will not be correctly
LCD panel
closed
200 210
LCD panel
closed
220 230
• 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.
Using an outside power source
You can use the AC Adaptor to obtain AC.
While you are using the AC Adaptor, the
battery pack will not lose its charge even
when it is attached to your camcorder.
Connect your camcorder as shown
in Step3:Charging the battery pack
(p. 18).
On the AC Adaptor
• Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) 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.
• 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
(mains) is still supplied to it while connected to
the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor.
On the charging/recording/playback time
• Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C
(77 °F). 10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is
recommended.
20
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly
To record or play back, set the POWER
switch to the respective direction.
When you use your camcorder for the first
time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears
(p. 24).
POWER switch
1 While pressing the green button,
slide the POWER switch.
Press and hold the
green button when
you slide the
POWER switch
from OFF (CHG).
2 Hold the camcorder properly.
3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
Getting Started
CAMERA: To record pictures.
VCR: To play or edit pictures.
b Notes
• The current date and time appear on the LCD
screen for a few seconds when you turn on your
camcorder once you set the date and time
([CLOCK SET],
p. 24).
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. 105).
21
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
The 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/BATT INFO button
z Tips
• You can see your mirror image on the LCD
screen by setting the LCD panel facing you. The
image will be recorded in a normal image.
To turn off the LCD backlight to make
the battery last longer
Press and hold the DISPLAY/BATT INFO
button for a few seconds until
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 the
DISPLAY/BATT INFO button.
disappears.
z Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen
from [LCD BRIGHT] (
p. 76).
appears.
The viewfinder
You can view pictures 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 eye line. This
is not a malfunction. The shimmering colors
will not be recorded on the recording media.
z Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight from [VF B.LIGHT] (
• To display images both on the LCD display and
in the viewfinder, set [VF POWERMODE] to
[ON] (
p. 76).
p. 76).
22
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.
b Notes
• Do not remove the pre-attached eyecup.
Large eyecup (supplied)
Attach with the
protruding part
at the top.
Getting Started
23
Step 6: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using this
camcorder for the first time. If you do not
set the date and time, [CLOCK SET] screen
appears every time you turn on your
camcorder or change the POWER switch
positions.
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. 117).
2 Select (OTHERS) by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then
press the dial.
OTHERS
RETURN
CAMERA PROF.
ASSIGN BTN
PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS
CLOCK SET
WORLD TIME
LANGUAGE
QUICK REC
[MENU]: END
3 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then
press the dial.
--:--:--
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial MENU button
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for
the first time.
1 Press the MENU button.
PROG. SCAN
IRIS/EXPOSURE
GAIN SETUP
AGC LIMIT
MINUS AGC
WB PRESET
AWB SENS
24
1JAN
12 : 00
-:--:--
AM
CLOCK SET
MDY
--
2008
[MENU]: CANCEL
4 Set [Y] (year) by turning the SEL/
PUSH EXEC dial, then press the
dial.
You can set any year up to the year
2079.
1JAN
12 : 00
-:--:--
AM
CLOCK SET
MDY
--
2008
[MENU]: CANCEL
5 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour
and minute, then press the dial.
The clock starts.
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 on
the tape, and can be displayed during playback
(DATA CODE button,
p. 52).
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Press the MENU button to select the
(OTHERS) with the SEL/PUSH EXEC
dial.
Select the screen language in
[LANGUAGE]
(p. 82).
Getting Started
25
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo”
{DO NOT PUSH}
Cassette tape
You can use mini DV cassettes only
(p. 110).
1 Slide and hold the OPEN/
EJECT lever in the direction of the
arrow and open the lid.
OPEN/EJECT
lever
Lid
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out.
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
Push the center of
Window
the back of the
cassette lightly.
The cassette compartment automatically
slides back in.
b Notes
• Do not push the portion marked
compartment is sliding in. Doing so may
cause a malfunction.
while the cassette
3 Close the lid.
z Tips
• The recordable time varies depending on [DV
REC MODE] (
p. 78).
To eject the cassette
Open the lid following the same procedure
as described in step 1 and remove the
cassette.
“Memory Stick Duo”
You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo”
marked with
,
or
(p. 111).
1 Open the “Memory Stick Duo”
slot cover in the direction of the
arrow.
26
Cassette
compartment
“Memory Stick Duo” slot cover
2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”
into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot
in the right direction until it clicks.
Access lamp
b Notes
• If you insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into
the slot in the wrong direction, the “ Memory
Stick Duo,” the “Memory Stick Duo” slot,
or image data may be damaged.
To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”
Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo”
once.
b Notes
• When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your
camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake
or knock your camcorder, turn the power off,
eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” or remove the
battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be
damaged.
• When inserting or ejecting the “Memory Stick
Duo,” be careful with the “Memory Stick Duo”
from popping out and dropping.
Getting Started
27
Recording/Playback
Recording
REC START/STOP button B
PHOTO/EXPANDED
FOCUS button
Recording lamp
Your camcorder records movies on tape and still images on “Memory Stick Duo.” Do the
following steps to record movies.
z Tips
• This camcorder can record movies in HDV or DV format. The factory setting is HDV format ([REC
FORMAT]
p. 77).
Recording lamp
Lens hood with lens cover
POWER switch
REC START/STOP
button A
1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.
2 Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the green button.
28
Slide the POWER
switch while pressing
the green button.
3 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B).
60min
REC
60min
[STBY] t [REC]
The recording lamp lights up during recording.
To stop the movie recording, press the REC START/STOP button again.
z Tips
• When recording in HDV format, the aspect ratio is fixed to 16:9. When recording in DV format, you
can switch the aspect ratio to 4:3 ([DV WIDE REC]
• You can change the screen display during recording (p. 52).
• Indicators displayed on the screen during recording are shown on page 128.
• The recording lamp can be set to stay off ([REC LAMP] p. 83).
• You cannot record movies on a “Memory Stick Duo.”
• For low angle recording, the REC START/STOP button on the handle is convenient. Release the
HOLD lever to enable the REC START/STOP 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.
p. 78).
Recording/Playback
Continued ,
29
Recording (Continued)
To capture still images
Press the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS
button or the PHOTO button on the Remote
Commander.
A still image will be recorded on the
“Memory Stick Duo.”
the recording is completed.
You can capture still images during movie
recording.
b Notes
• Specifications are for Sony “Memory Stick
Duo.” The actual number of recordable pictures
can vary depending on the recording
environment and the type of “Memory Stick
Duo.”
• You cannot store a still image under the
following conditions:
– When [PROG.SCAN] is set to [OFF] or [30]
and the shutter speed is slower than 1/60
– When [PROG.SCAN] is set to [24] and the
shutter speed is slower than 1/48
– While using the fader
– While using smooth slow rec
– While using shot transition
z Tips
• When you take a still image while not recording
a movie, you will hear the shutter click.
• Image sizes of still images are as follows:
– Recording in HDV format/DV format (16:9):
1.2 M
– Recording in DV format (4:3): 0.9 M
– Playing back in HDV format: 1.2 M
– Playing back in DV format (16:9): 0.2 M
– Playing back in DV format (4:3): VGA
• Indicators displayed on the screen during
shooting are shown on
• You can set the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS
button to start the expanded focus function as
you press the button ([PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS]
p. 82).
• The unique pixel array of Sony's ClearVid
CMOS sensor and image processing system
(Enhanced Imaging Processor) allows for still
image resolution equivalent to the sizes
described.
disappears when
page 128.
Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo”
(MB) and the number of recordable
pictures
1.2M
0.9M
VGA
1440
810
1.2M
×
1080 ×
810
640 ×
480
0.2M
640 ×
360
512MB 770 1000 2900 3650
1GB 1550 2100 6000 7500
2GB 3150 4300 12000 15000
4GB 6300 8500 23500 29500
8GB 12500 17000 48000 60000
16GB 25500 34500 97500 122000
To store still images captured from
movies on a tape on “Memory Stick
Duo”
You can capture an image in a movie and
record it on a “Memory Stick Duo” as a still
image. Be sure to insert a recorded tape and
a “Memory Stick Duo” in your camcorder.
1 Set the POWER switch to VCR.
2 Press the N(play) button to search for
the scene you want to save as a still
image. Press the PHOTO/EXPANDED
FOCUS button or the PHOTO button on
your Remote Commander at the scene.
b Notes
• The recorded date and time on the tape and the
stored date and time on the “Memory Stick
Duo” are both saved on the “Memory Stick
Duo.” When you view the still images, only the
recorded date and time on the tape will be
displayed on the screen (Data code,
• Camera data stored on the tape will not be
copied to the “Memory Stick Duo.”
• You cannot store a still image during using your
camcorder with [PB ZOOM] set to [ON] (
p. 52).
p. 82).
30
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