Sony HDR-HC3 User Manual
2-661-355-11(1)
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
HDR-HC3
Enjoying pictures with
high definition quality
Getting Started 14
Easy Handycam 26
Recording/
Playback
Using the Menu 48
Dubbing/Editing 74
Using a Computer 84
Troubleshooting 92
Additional Information 111
Quick Reference 127
12
30
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 100% recycled paper using
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free
vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
US
© 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, as 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.
Battery pack
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.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with
Canadian ICES-003.
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-HC3
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-HC3
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr, 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
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. 112).
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.)
“Memory Stick”
(You cannot use it in your camcorder.)
• You cannot use any type of memory card
except “Memory Stick Duo.”
(p. 114).
6
• “Memory Stick PRO” and “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” can be used only with
“Memory Stick PRO” compatible
equipment.
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.
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof
or waterproof.
See “Maintenance and precautions”
(p. 118).
• 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 (The screen appears
blue).
Check the contents of tapes by playing
them back on this camcorder prior to
playing them back on other devices.
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. 70).
• 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.
7
Note on the icons used in this manual
Table of Contents
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..................................................................3
Read this first ...........................................................................................5
Features available for the HDV
format only
Features available for the DV format only
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
Trying out the new HDV format! .............................................................12
Viewing video recorded in the HDV format! ...........................................13
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................14
Step 2: Charging the battery pack ......................................................... 15
Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ......... 19
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................20
Step 5: Using the touch panel ................................................................21
Changing the language setting .................................................................... 21
Checking the screen indicators (Display guide) .......................................... 21
Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................23
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” .................................. 24
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic
settings
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam) ........................................ 26
Recording/Playback
Recording ............................................................................................... 30
Playback ................................................................................................ 31
Functions used for recording/playback, etc. ..........................................32
Recording
To use zoom
To record high quality still images during tape recording (Dual Rec)
To control the image settings manually with the dial (CAM CTRL dial/
MANUAL button)
To use the flash
To record in dark places (NightShot)
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects
To record in mirror mode
To use a tripod
8
To use a Shoulder belt
Playback
To use PB zoom
Recording/playback
To check the remaining battery (Battery Info)
To turn off the operation confirmation beep (BEEP)
To initialize the settings (RESET)
Other part names and functions
Indicators displayed during recording/playback .....................................36
Searching for the starting point ..............................................................39
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording
(END SEARCH) .................................................................................. 39
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review) ....................... 39
Remote Commander ..............................................................................40
Searching quickly for a desired scene (Zero set memory) .......................... 40
Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ......................... 41
Playing the picture on a TV ....................................................................42
High definition TV ......................................................................................... 42
16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV .................................................................................... 42
Connecting to a high definition TV ............................................................... 43
Connecting to a 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV ......................................................... 44
Using the Menu
Using the menu items ........................................................... 48
Menu items .............................................................................................50
CAMERA SET menu ........................................................................52
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/
WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.)
MEMORY SET menu .......................................................................58
Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/
NEW FOLDER, etc.)
PICT.APPLI. menu ..........................................................................61
Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback
(SLIDE SHOW/PICT.EFFECT/SMTH SLW REC, etc.)
EDIT/PLAY menu ...........................................................................64
Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/
END SEARCH, etc.)
STANDARD SET menu ..................................................................65
Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/
MULTI-SOUND/LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT/QUICK REC, etc.)
TIME/LANGU. menu .......................................................................70
(CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE)
Customizing Personal Menu ..................................................................71
Using the CAM CTRL dial ......................................................................72
Continued ,
9
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc. .........................................................74
Recording pictures from a VCR ............................................................77
Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” .........................79
Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo” ...................... 80
Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information
(Print mark/Image protection) ....................................................... 80
Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) ........................81
Jacks to connect external devices .........................................................83
Using a Computer
Connecting to a computer ......................................................................84
Copying still images to a computer ........................................................84
Copying movies on a tape to the computer ...........................................87
Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) ................................89
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting .....................................................................................92
Warning indicators and messages ....................................................... 107
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad .............................................................. 111
Usable cassette tapes .......................................................................... 112
About the “Memory Stick” ....................................................................114
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack .................................................116
About i.LINK ......................................................................................... 117
Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................118
Specifications .......................................................................................123
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ............................................................... 127
Index .................................................................................................... 130
10
11
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
Trying out the new HDV format!
Shooting in the 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 format 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.
• 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
Viewing video recorded in the HDV format!
Viewing on a high definition TV (p. 42)
Pictures recorded in the HDV format can be played back as crisp HD (high definition)
pictures on a high definition TV.
• For details on Sony HDV1080i compliant TVs, see page 113.
Viewing on a 16:9 (wide)/4:3 TV (p. 42)
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 devices (p. 74)
Enjoying pictures with high definition quality
Connecting to an HDV1080i device
An optional i.LINK cable allows you to copy pictures in HD (high definition) quality.
Connecting to an HDV1080i non-compliant device
Your camcorder can down convert HDV format video to SD (standard definition) quality to
enable copying.
Connecting to a computer (p. 84)
Copying “Memory Stick Duo” still images to a computer
See page 84.
Copying movies on a tape to a computer
The computer will need to be set up differently, depending on whether HDV or DV format
video is to be copied. See page 87 for details.
13
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 6, 112 and 114 for
compatible cassettes and “Memory Stick Duo”
for your camcorder.
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 15)
Power cord (1) (p. 15)
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
(p. 40)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 42, 74)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FP60 (1)
(p. 15, 116)
Battery terminal cover (1)
Attached to the camcorder.
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
Component video cable (1) (p. 42)
USB cable (1) (p. 81, 84)
14
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack (P series) (p. 116) after
attaching it to your camcorder.
• You cannot use the battery pack NP-FP30 with
your camcorder (confirm the battery model on
the back of the battery pack). If you attach it
forcibly to your camcorder, the battery pack
may be damaged or cannot be detached, and it
may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
POWER switch
DC IN
jack
Jack cover
DC plug
To the wall outlet
Power cord
• You can operate your camcorder connected to a
power source such as a wall outlet as shown in
the illustration. The battery pack will not lose its
charge in this case.
AC Adaptor
1 Attach the battery pack to your
camcorder.
1 Slide the BATT (battery release) lever
and remove the battery terminal cover.
Getting Started
BATT (battery
release) lever
2 Attach the battery pack by sliding it in
the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
Continued ,
15
Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
2 Slide the POWER switch in the
direction of the arrow to OFF
(CHG) (The default setting).
CHG (charge) lamp
3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the
DC IN jack of your camcorder. Be
sure that the v mark on the DC
plug is facing to the v mark on
your camcorder.
4 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor and the wall outlet.
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and
charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp
turns off when the battery is fully
charged.
5 Disconnect the AC Adaptor from
the DC IN jack on your
camcorder.
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
DC IN jack holding both the camcorder
and the DC plug.
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
Slide the BATT (battery release) lever and
remove the battery pack.
BATT (battery
release) lever
Open the jack cover.
Match the v mark on the DC plug with
the v mark on your camcorder.
16
When storing the battery pack
Attach the battery terminal cover to protect
the battery terminal. Fully discharge the
battery before storing it for an extended
period (see page 116 for the details of
storage).
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery
pack.
Battery pack Charging time
NP-FP50 125
NP-FP60 (supplied) 135
NP-FP70 155
NP-FP71 170
NP-FP90 220
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
Recording in the HDV format
Battery pack
Continuous
recording
time
NP-FP50 60 30
NP-FP60
(supplied)
NP-FP70 125 65
NP-FP71 150 80
NP-FP90 230 125
Typical
recording
time*
65 35
65 35
90 50
100 55
100 55
135 70
135 70
165 90
165 90
250 135
250 135
Recording in the DV format
Battery pack
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
NP-FP50 60 30
65 35
65 35
NP-FP60
(supplied)
95 50
105 55
105 55
NP-FP70 135 70
145 80
145 80
NP-FP71 160 85
175 95
175 95
NP-FP90 240 130
260 140
260 140
• All times measured under the following
conditions:
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.
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
HDV format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
NP-FP50 75 80
NP-FP60
(supplied)
NP-FP70 160 175
NP-FP71 195 205
NP-FP90 290 310
LCD panel
closed
115 125
Getting Started
Continued ,
17
Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
DV format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
LCD panel
closed
NP-FP50 85 95
NP-FP60
(supplied)
135 145
NP-FP70 185 200
NP-FP71 220 235
NP-FP90 335 355
* When the LCD backlight turns on.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during
charging, or Battery Info (p. 34) 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-FP60, NPFP70, NP-FP71 or NP-FP90 battery pack.
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.
• The recording and playback time will be shorter
depending on the conditions under which you
use your camcorder.
• 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 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.
18
Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly
To record or play back, slide the POWER
switch repeatedly to turn on the respective
lamp.
When using it for the first time, the
[CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 23).
1 Slide the POWER switch
repeatedly in the direction of the
arrow to turn on the respective
lamp.
The lens cover opens automatically
when the POWER switch is set to
CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERAMEMORY.
2 Hold the camcorder correctly.
3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
Getting Started
Lamps that light up
CAMERA-TAPE: To record on a tape.
CAMERA-MEMORY: To record on a
“Memory Stick Duo.”
PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.
• After you have set the date and time
([CLOCK SET], p. 23), 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.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
• At the time of purchase, the power will be set to
turn off automatically if you leave your
camcorder without any operation attempted for
approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power
([A.SHUT OFF], p. 70).
• If warning messages appear on the screen,
follow the instructions (p. 108).
19
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
The LCD panel
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the
camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best
angle to record or play (2 ).
190 degrees to the
camcorder
2180 degrees
(max.)
290 degrees
(max.)
• Do not press the buttons on the LCD panel
accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD
panel.
• If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the
lens side from the status 1, you can close the
LCD panel with the LCD screen facing out. This
is convenient during playback operations.
• When closing the LCD panel, rotate the LCD
panel to the position as illustrated in 1, and
then close the LCD panel facing inward.
DISP/BATT INFO
To turn off the LCD backlight to make
the battery last longer
Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few
seconds until appears.
This setting is practical when you use your
camcorder in bright conditions or 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 DISP/BATT INFO for a few
seconds until disappears.
• See [LCD/VF SET] - [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 67) to
adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.
The viewfinder
You can view pictures using the viewfinder
to avoid wearing down the battery, or when
the picture seen on the LCD screen is poor.
Viewfinder
Viewfinder lens
adjustment lever
Move it until the
picture is clear.
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight by selecting [LCD/VF SET] - [VF
B.LIGHT] (p. 67).
20
Step 5: Using the touch panel
You can play back recorded pictures
(p. 31), or change the settings (p. 48) using
the touch panel.
Place your hand on the rear side of
the LCD panel to support it. Then,
touch the buttons displayed on the
screen.
DISP/BATT INFO
Touch the button on
the LCD screen.
• Perform the same actions as explained above
when you press the buttons on the LCD panel.
• Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD
panel accidentally while using the touch panel.
• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work
correctly, adjust the LCD screen
(CALIBRATION) (p. 120).
To hide the screen indicators
Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the
screen indicators (such as time code) on or
off.
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Select the screen language in
[LANGUAGE] on the (TIME/
LANGU.) menu (p. 70).
Checking the screen indicators (Display guide)
You can easily check the meaning of each
indicator that appears on the LCD screen
(p. 38).
1 Touch .
60min
MENU
DIAL
1/3
SET
TELE
MACRO
Touch [MENU] during Easy Handycam
operation (p. 26).
DISP
GUIDE
SMOOTH
SLWREC
EXPOSURE
–:––:––
2 Touch [DISP GUIDE].
Getting Started
The indicators vary depending on the
settings.
21
Step 5: Using the touch panel (Continued)
3 Touch the area including the
indicator that you want to check.
The meanings of the indicators in the
area are listed on the screen. If you
cannot find the indicator you want to
check, touch / to toggle.
When you touch , the screen returns
to the area selecting display.
DISP GUIDE
FOCUS:
MANUAL
1/2
PROGRAM AE:
SPOTLIGHT
STEADYSHOT:
OFF
To finish the operation
Touch [END].
END
22
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, the [CLOCK SET]
screen appears every time you turn on your
camcorder or change the POWER switch
position.
• 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. 121).
POWER switch
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for
the first time.
3 Select [CLOCK SET] with / ,
then touch .
CLOCK SET
DATE
2006
4 Set [Y] (year) with / , then
touch .
You can set any year up to the year
2079.
CLOCK SET
DATE
2006
Y
JANM1D12: 00
Y
JAN M1D 12: 00
AM
OK
AM
OK
Getting Started
1 Touch t [MENU].
PROGRAM AE
SPOT METER
EXPOSURE
–:––:––
OK
60min
CAMERA SET
2 Select (TIME/LANGU.) menu
with / , then touch .
60min
MENU ROTATE
A. SHUT OFF
QUICK REC
CLOCK SET
WORLD TIME
LANGUAGE
PROGRAM AE
–:––:––
––:––:––
OK
5 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour
and minute, then touch .
The clock starts.
For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM.
For midday, set it to 12:00 PM.
• The date and time does not appear during
recording, but they are automatically recorded
on the tape, and can be displayed during
playback (see page 68 for [DATA CODE]
(during Easy Handycam operation, you can set
only [DATE/TIME])).
23
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo”
Cassette tape
You can use mini DV cassettes only
(p. 112).
• The recordable time varies depending on [
REC MODE] (p. 66).
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.
• Do not force the cassette
compartment closed by pressing the
portion marked while
it is sliding in. It may cause a
malfunction.
3 Close the lid.
To eject the cassette
Open the lid following the same procedure
as described in step 1 and remove the
cassette.
You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo”
marked with or
• The number and time of recordable pictures
vary, depending on the image quality or the
image size. For details, see page 58.
(p. 114).
1 Open the LCD panel.
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
The cassette compartment
automatically slides back in.
24
2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”
into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot
in the right direction until it clicks.
• If you force the “Memory Stick Duo” into
the slot in the wrong direction, the “M emory
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” in
once.
• 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 that the “Memory Stick Duo”
does not pop out and drop.
Getting Started
25
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic settings
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)
With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally
adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy
viewing.
Movies
1 Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp.
2 Press EASY A.
appears on the screen B.
3 Press START/STOP F or C to start recording.
To stop recording, press F or C again.
26
Still images
60min
11
1 Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp.
If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG),
slide it while pressing the green button.
2 Press EASY A.
appears on the screen B.
3 Press PHOTO D to record.*
11
EASY
11
4.0M
MENU
Press fully to record.
60min
60min
101
Flashing t Lit
Press and hold lightly
to adjust the focus.
When disappears, the image has been recorded.
* Still images are recorded in [FINE] quality on a “Memory Stick Duo.”
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic settings
To record high quality still images during tape recording (Dual Rec)
Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp, then press PHOTO D
fully during tape recording.
For each separate time tape recording, up to 3 still images can be recorded. After tape
recording, stored still images are stored onto the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 32).
• Do not eject “Memory Stick Duo” before tape recording is finished and the still images are stored on the
“Memory Stick Duo.”
Continued ,
27
B
S
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam) (Continued)
Playing back movies/still images
Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the
buttons on the touch panel B as follows.
Movies
Touch , then touch
to start playback.
A
A Stop
B Play/Pause toggles
C Rewind/Fast forward
C
x To cancel Easy Handycam operation
Press EASY A again. disappears from the screen.
x Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam operation
Touch [MENU] to display adjustable menu settings. See page 49 for details on settings.
• Almost all the settings return to the default setting automatically (p. 50).
• is not displayed during Easy Handycam operation.
• Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add any effects or settings to the images.
till images
Touch t /
to select a picture.
B
A
A Tape playback
B Previous/Next
C Delete (p. 80)
C
MENU
x Unavailable buttons during Easy Handycam
During Easy Handycam operation, the following buttons/dial are unavailable, since the
items are set automatically. [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation] may appear if
operations not available during Easy Handycam are attempted.
• BACK LIGHT button (p. 33)
• Pressing and holding DISP/BATT INFO button (p. 20)
• CAM CTRL dial (p. 33)
• MANUAL button (p. 33)
28
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic settings
29
Recording/Playback
Recording
Lens cover
Opens in accordance with the
setting of the POWER switch.
CAM CTRL dial
START/STOP B
1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on
the respective lamp to select a recording medium.
PHOTO
POWER switch
START/STOP A
Movies on tape: The CAMERA-TAPE
lamp lights up.
Still images on “Memory Stick
Duo”: The CAMERA-MEMORY lamp
lights up.*
* The image size ratio is set by default to 4:3.
If the POWER
switch is set to OFF
(CHG), slide it
while pressing the
green button.
2 Start recording.
Movies Still images
Press START/STOP A (or B).
60min
REC
60min
[STBY] t [REC]
To stop the movie recording, press
START/STOP again.
• The pictures are recorded in the HDV
format in the default setting (p. 66).
To record high quality still images
during tape recording (Dual Rec)
See page 32.
Press and hold PHOTO lightly to
adjust the focus (A), then press it
fully (B).
Beep Shutter click
A shutter sound is heard. When
disappears, the image has been recorded.
To check the latest recording on a
“Memory Stick Duo”
Touch . To delete the picture, touch
t [YES].
• See page 58 for the image size.
Flashing t Lit
30
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