Sony HDR-FX7 User Manual
2-887-514-11(1)
US
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
HDR-FX7
Enjoying pictures with
high definition quality
Getting Started 16
Recording/
Playback
Using the Menu 56
Dubbing/Editing 76
Using a Computer 86
Troubleshooting 92
Additional Information 104
Quick Reference 119
12
28
Additional information on this product and answers
to frequently asked questions can be found at our
Customer Support Website.
http://www.sony.net/
Printed on 70% or more recycled paper
using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)
-free vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
© 2006 Sony Corporation
WARNING
To reduce fire or shock hazard, do
not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.
This symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of
uninsulated “dangerous
voltage” within the product’s
enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric
shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert
the user to the presence of
important operating and
maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literature
accompanying the appliance.
2
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
For your protection, please read these safety
instructions completely before operating
the appliance, and keep this manual for
future reference.
Carefully observe all warnings, precautions
and instructions on the appliance, or the one
described in the operating instructions and
adhere to them.
Use
Power Sources
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.
Polarization
This set may be equipped with a polarized ac
power cord plug (a plug having one blade wider
than the other).
This plug will fit into the power outlet only one
way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to
insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing
the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact
your electrician to have a suitable outlet installed.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized
plug by forcing it in.
Overloading
Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or
convenience receptacles beyond their capacity,
since this can result in fire or electric shock.
Object and Liquid Entry
Never push objects of any kind into the set
through openings as they may touch dangerous
voltage points or short out parts that could result
in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any
kind on the set.
Attachments
Do not use attachments not recommended by the
manufacturer, as they may cause hazards.
Cleaning
Unplug the set from the wall outlet before
cleaning or polishing it. Do not use liquid cleaners
or aerosol cleaners. Use a cloth lightly dampened
with water for cleaning the exterior of the set.
Installation
Water and Moisture
Do not use power-line operated sets near water –
for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen
sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a
swimming pool, etc.
Power-Cord Protection
Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be
walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to the
plugs, receptacles, and the point where the cord
exits from the appliance.
Accessories
Do not place the set on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The set may fall, causing
serious injury to a child or an adult, and serious
damage to the set. Use only a cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table recommended by the
manufacturer.
Ventilation
The slots and openings in the cabinet are provided
for necessary ventilation. To ensure reliable
operation of the set, and to protect it from
overheating, these slots and openings must never
be blocked or covered.
– Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth
or other materials.
– Never block the slots and openings by placing
the set on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar
surface.
– Never place the set in a confined space, such as
a bookcase, or built-in cabinet, unless proper
ventilation is provided.
– Do not place the set near or over a radiator or
heat register, or where it is exposed to direct
sunlight.
Continued ,
3
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS (Continued)
Lightning
For added protection for this set during a lightning
storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for
long periods of time, unplug it from the wall
outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system.
This will prevent damage to the set due to
lightning and power-line surges.
Service
Damage Requiring Service
Unplug the set from the wall outlet and refer
servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:
– When the power cord or plug is damaged or
frayed.
– If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the set.
– If the set has been exposed to rain or water.
– If the set has been subject to excessive shock by
being dropped, or the cabinet has been
damaged.
– If the set does not operate normally when
following the operating instructions. Adjust
only those controls that are specified in the
operating instructions. Improper adjustment of
other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the set to normal operation.
– When the set exhibits a distinct change in
performance – this indicates a need for service.
Servicing
Do not attempt to service the set yourself as
opening or removing covers may expose you to
dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Safety Check
Upon completion of any service or repairs to the
set, ask the service technician to perform routine
safety checks (as specified by the manufacturer)
to determine that the set is in safe operating
condition.
Replacement parts
When replacement parts are required, be sure the
service technician has used replacement parts
specified by the manufacturer that have the same
characteristics as the original parts.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire,
electric shock, or other hazards.
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.
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-FX7
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-FX7
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,
Continued ,
5
Read this first (Continued)
the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following
measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
The supplied interface cable must be used 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.
Notes on use
Types of cassette you can use in your
camcorder
You can use mini DV cassettes marked
with . Mini DV cassettes with
Cassette Memory are incompatible (p. 105).
Types of “Memory Stick” you can use
in your camcorder
There are two sizes of “Memory Stick.”
You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked
with or
“Memory Stick Duo”
(This size can be used with your
camcorder.)
(p. 106).
• “Memory Stick PRO” and “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.
Lens hood
“Memory Stick”
(You cannot use it in your camcorder.)
b Note
• You cannot use any type of memory card
except “Memory Stick Duo.”
6
LCD panel Battery pack
Microphone Viewfinder
b Note
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof
or waterproof.
See “Maintenance and precautions”
(p. 111).
• Before connecting your camcorder to
another device with an HDMI cable,
component video cable, USB or i.LINK
cable, be sure to insert the connector plug
the correct way, and not forcibly to avoid
damaging the terminal, or cause a
malfunction of your camcorder.
About menu items, LCD panel,
viewfinder, and lens
• A menu item that is grayed out is not
available under the current recording or
playback conditions.
• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are
manufactured using extremely highprecision technology, so over 99.99% of
the pixels are operational for effective
use. However, there may be some tiny
black points and/or bright points (white,
red, blue, or green in color) that appear
constantly on the LCD screen and the
viewfinder. These points are normal
results of the manufacturing process and
do not affect the recording in any way.
Black point
White, red, blue
or green point
• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder,
or the lens to direct sunlight for long
periods of time may cause malfunctions.
• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might
cause your camcorder to malfunction.
Take pictures of the sun only in low light
conditions, such as at dusk.
On recording
• Before starting to record, test the
recording function to make sure the
picture and sound are recorded without
any problems.
• Compensation for the contents of
recordings cannot be provided, even if
recording or playback is not possible due
to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage
media, etc.
• TV color systems differ depending on the
countries/regions. To view your
recordings on a TV, you need 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 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
Features available for the HDV
format only
Features available for the DV
format only
This function that can be used when
i.LINK cable is connected.
This function that can be used when
USB cable is connected.
Continued ,
7
Read this first (Continued)
About this manual
• The images of the LCD screen and the
viewfinder used in this manual for
illustration purposes are captured using a
digital still camera, and therefore may
appear different.
• The on-screen displays in each local
language are used for illustrating the
operating procedures. Change the screen
language before using your camcorder if
necessary (p. 74).
• 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.
8
Table of Contents
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..................................................................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
Recording/Playback
Recording ...............................................................................................28
Playback .................................................................................................31
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings .............................33
Adjusting the zoom ............................................................................. 33
Adjusting the focus manually.............................................................. 34
Adjusting the EXPOSURE/IRIS............................................................ 35
Adjusting to Natural Color (White balance)......................................... 38
Customizing the picture quality (Picture profile) ................................. 39
Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons .....................................42
Focusing on a distant subject (Focus infinity) .................................... 43
Recording an index signal .................................................................. 44
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review).............. 44
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording
(End search) ....................................................................................... 44
Using the Shot transition .................................................................... 45
Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder ................................47
Changing the screen .......................................................................... 47
Continued ,
9
Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ................. 47
Checking the remaining battery (Battery Info) .................................... 48
Locating a scene on a tape ....................................................................49
Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) ................. 49
Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ................ 49
Searching for a recording start point (Index search) .......................... 50
Playing the picture on a TV .................................................................... 51
Using the Menu
Using the menu items ........................................................... 56
Menu items ............................................................................................57
(CAMERA SET) menu ....................................................................59
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/
IRIS/STEADYSHOT/BACK LIGHT, etc.)
(AUDIO SET) menu .......................................................................64
Settings for the audio recording (AUDIO REC LV/DV AU. MODE, etc.)
(DISPLAY SET) menu .....................................................................65
Display settings of the display and the viewfinder (MARKER/VF B.LIGHT/
DATA CODE, etc.)
(IN/OUT REC) menu ....................................................................... 69
Recording settings, input and output settings (VCR HDV/DV/DV REC MODE/
DV WIDE REC/ TV TYPE, etc.)
(MEMORY SET) menu .....................................................................71
Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/ALL ERASE, etc.)
(OTHERS) menu ............................................................................. 73
Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (USB SELECT/
QUICK REC/BEEP, etc.)
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. ............................................... 76
Recording pictures from a VCR .............................................................. 79
Copying movies from tape to “Memory Stick Duo” as still images ......... 82
Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo” ...................... 82
Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) ........................83
Using a Computer
Connecting to a computer ......................................................................86
Copying still images to a computer ........................................................ 86
Copying movies on a tape to a computer .............................................. 89
10
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ......................................................................................92
Warning indicators and messages .......................................................101
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ..............................................................104
HDV format and recording/playback ....................................................105
About the “Memory Stick” .....................................................................106
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ..................................................108
About i.LINK .........................................................................................110
Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................111
Specifications .......................................................................................115
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................119
Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder ......................................124
Index .....................................................................................................127
11
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
Trying out the new HDV format!
High image quality
The HDV format has about 2 times the horizontal resolution of a standard TV resulting in
about 4 times the amount of pixels providing high quality images.
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 new 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 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 20X optical zoom lens installed
The Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 20× optical zoom lens lets you 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 EXPOSURE/IRIS dial 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 a “Memory Stick Duo” slot, USB port, HDMI
OUT jack, and headphone jack on the left side of your camcorder and an i.LINK (HDV/DV)
jack, COMPONENT OUT jack, A/V OUT jack, and DC IN jack on the right side.
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. 59)
Moving subjects can be shot in smooth moving slow-motion.
Saving Camera profile (p. 73)
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.
EXPOSURE/IRIS dial (p. 35)
You can adjust the brightness using the EXPOSURE/IRIS dial. The EXPOSURE/IRIS dial
can be used to adjust [EXPOSURE], [IRIS] or [AE SHIFT].
14
Viewing video recorded in the HDV format!
Viewing on a high definition TV (p. 51)
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 53.
Viewing on a 16:9 TV/4:3 TV (p. 51)
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. 76)
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. 86)
x Copying “Memory Stick Duo” still images to a computer.
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 89 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 page 26, 105 and 106 for
compatible cassettes and “Memory Stick Duo”
for your camcorder.
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 18)
Power cord (1) (p. 18)
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
(p. 123)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 51, 76)
Large eyecup(1) (p. 23)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-F570 (1)
(p. 18, 108)
Lens hood with lens cover (1) (p. 17)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
Component video cable (1) (p. 51)
USB cable (1) (p. 86)
16
Step 2: Attaching the lens hood with lens cover
To open the shutter of the Lens hood
with lens cover
Move the lens cover lever up and down to
open or close the lens cover.
2
1
Lens hood fixing screw
Align the marks on the lens hood to
those on the camcorder, and turn the
lens hood in the direction of the
arrow. Tighten the lens hood fixing
screw.
To remove the Lens hood with lens
cover
Loosen the lens hood fixing screw and turn
the lens hood in the opposite direction of
the arrow in the illustration above.
z Tip
• If you attach, remove or adjust an 62mm (2 1/
2in.) PL filter or MC protector, remove the lens
hood.
Getting Started
Move the lens cover lever to OPEN
to open the lens cover, and move
the lever to CLOSE to close the lens
cover.
17
Step 3: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the battery by
attaching the “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack (L series) to your camcorder.
b Note
• You cannot use batteries other than the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series)
(p. 108).
DC plug
AC Adaptor
DC IN jack
To the wall
outlet
Power cord
1 Press the battery pack and slide it
down.
2 With the B mark on the DC plug
facing the cassette compartment,
connect the AC Adaptor to the DC
IN jack on your camcorder.
B mark
3 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor.
4 Connect the power cord to the
wall outlet.
5 Set the POWER switch to OFF
(CHG).
The CHARGE lamp lights up and
charging starts.
18
After charging the battery
The CHARGE lamp turns off when the
battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC
Adaptor from the DC IN jack.
z Tip
• You can check the remaining battery with
Battery info (p. 48).
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
Push the BATT RELEASE (battery release)
button and remove the battery pack.
BATT RELEASE
(battery release) button
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.
Recording in the HDV format
Battery pack
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 320 185
NP-F970 480 290
Recording in the DV format
Battery pack
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 335 200
NP-F970 500 300
Top: When the LCD backlight turns on.
Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off.
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.
Continuous
recording
time
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
155 90
160 95
155 90
335 195
320 185
500 300
480 290
Typical
recording
time*
160 100
165 105
160 100
350 210
335 200
520 315
500 300
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 510 510
NP-F970 760 760
DV format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 550 550
NP-F970 830 830
* When the LCD backlight turns on.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
• The CHARGE lamp flashes during charging, or
Battery Info (p. 48) 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, even when the
power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet.
• When attaching an optional video light, it is
recommended that you use a NP-F970 battery
pack.
LCD panel
closed
245 245
LCD panel
closed
270 270
• 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 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.
PRECAUTION
• 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.
On the charging/recording/playback time
• Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C
(77 °F) (10 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.
20
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your
camcorder properly
To record or play back, slide the POWER
switch to the respective direction.
When using it for the first time, [CLOCK
SET] screen appears (p. 24).
POWER switch
2 Hold the camcorder properly.
Getting Started
1 While pressing the green button,
set the POWER switch.
If the POWER
switch is set to OFF
(CHG), slide it
while pressing the
green button.
CAMERA: To record pictures.
VCR: To play or edit pictures.
b Note
• After you have set the date and time
([CLOCK SET], p. 24), the next time you
turn on the power of your camcorder, the
current date and time will be displayed on
the LCD screen for a few seconds.
3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
b Note
• If warning messages appear on the screen,
follow the instructions (p. 102).
21
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
The LCD panel
Open the LCD panel while pressing the
OPEN button 90 degrees to the camcorder
(1), then rotate it to the best angle to
record or play (2).
OPEN
button
190 degrees to the
camcorder
2180 degrees (max.)
290 degrees
(max.)
DISPLAY/BATT INFO
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 appears.
This setting is practical when you use your
camcorder in bright conditions or where
you want to save battery power. The
recorded picture will not be affected by the
setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press
and hold the DISPLAY/BATT INFO
button for a few seconds until
disappears.
z Tip
• See [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 67) to adjust the
brightness of the LCD screen.
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.
Viewfinder
z Tips
• If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees toward
the lens from the position 1, you can close the
LCD panel with the LCD screen facing outward.
This is convenient during playback operations.
• To close the LCD panel with the LCD screen
inward, rotate the LCD panel to the position 1,
and then close the LCD panel.
22
z Tip
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight from [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 67).
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 Note
• Do not remove the pre-attached eyecup.
Attach with the protruding part at
the top.
Large eyecup
(supplied)
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
position.
z Tip
• 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. 113).
MENU
button
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.
120min
CLOCK SET
[MENU]: CANCEL
-:--:--
AMDMY 12100:JAN2006
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for
the first time.
1 Press the MENU button.
CAMERA SET
EXPOSURE/IRIS
SMTH SLW REC
CNTRST ENHCR
STEADYSHOT
COLOR BAR
AF ASSIST
AE SHIFT
[MENU]: END
24
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.
120min
CLOCK SET
[MENU]: CANCEL
-:--:--
AMDMY 12100:JAN2006
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 Tip
• The date and time do not appear during
recording, but they are automatically recorded
on the tape, and can be displayed during
playback ([DATA CODE] (p. 67)).
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Select the screen language in
[LANGUAGE] (p. 74).
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. 105).
1 Slide and hold the OPEN/
EJECT lever in the direction of the
arrow and open the lid.
OPEN/EJECT lever
Lid
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out and opens up.
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
Push the center of the back
of the cassette lightly.
Window
b Note
• Do not push the portion marked
may cause a malfunction.
while it is sliding in. It
3 Close the lid.
z Tip
• The recordable time varies depending on [DV
REC MODE] (p. 69).
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. 106).
1 Open the jack cover.
26
Jack cover
Cassette
compartment
The cassette compartment automatically
slides back in.
2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”
into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot
in the right direction until it clicks.
Access lamp
b Note
• 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
Rec lamp
This camcorder records movies on tape and still images on “Memory Stick Duo”. The
procedure for recording movies is below.
• This camcorder can record movies in either HDV or DV format. The factory setting is HDV format ([REC
FORMAT] p. 69).
1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.
Rec lamp
Lens food
POWER switch
REC START/STOP
button A
2 While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch to CAMERA.
If the POWER switch
is set to OFF (CHG),
slide it while pressing
the green button.
28
3 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B).
410min
REC
60min
[STBY] t [REC]
The Rec 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] p. 70).
• You can change the screen display during recording (p. 47).
• Indicators displayed on the screen during recording are shown on page 124.
• The recording lamp can be set to stay off ([REC LAMP] p. 75).
• You cannot record the movie on a “Memory Stick Duo”.
To record in mirror mode
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees toward the
lens (2).
Recording/Playback
z Tip
• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the recorded picture will be normal.
Continued ,
29
Recording (Continued)
To record still images
Press the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button. The image is recorded on a “Memory Stick
Duo.” Recording is complete when disappears. You can also record still images during
movie recording.
z Tips
• When you are not recording a movie, you will hear the shutter click.
• The still image size is as follows:
– When recording in HDV or DV (16:9) format: 1.2M (1,440 × 810 dots)
– When recording in DV (4:3) format: 0.9M (1,080 × 810 dots)
• You can change the image quality and number of recordable images (
• Indicators displayed on the screen during shooting are shown on page 124.
• You can set the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button to start the expanded focus function as you press
the button ([PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS] (p. 74)).
[ QUALITY] (p. 71)).
30
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