Sony HDR-UX1E User Manual

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2-696-729-12(1)

Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website.

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

HDR-UX1E

Enjoying your

camcorder

Getting Started 25

Shooting

Playback

Editing 54

Dubbing/printing 61

Utilizing recording media 65

Customizing your

camcorder

Using a Computer 96

Troubleshooting 103

Additional

Information

Quick

Reference

123

138

http://www.sony.net/

Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.

Printed in Japan

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Read this before operating your camcorder

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

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

CAUTION

The use of optical instruments with this product will increase eye hazard. Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

Replace the battery with the specified type only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.

FOR CUSTOMERS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

A moulded plug complying with BS1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience.

Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the supplied one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS1362 (i.e., marked with or mark) must be used.

If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE

ATTENTION

The electromagnetic fields at the specific frequencies may influence the picture and sound of this unit.

This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the communication cable (USB, etc.) again.

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources.

For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Applicable Accessory: Remote Commander

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For customers in the U.S.A.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call:

Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222-SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters

only.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HDR-UX1E Responsible Party:Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA

92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC

Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must 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:

– 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 with 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

Your camcorder is supplied with two kinds of operations guides.

– “Operating Guide” (This manual) – “First Step Guide” for using your

camcorder with the computer connected (stored on the supplied CD-ROM)

Types of the disc you can use in your camcorder

You can use the following discs only. – 8cm DVD-R – 8cm DVD-RW – 8cm DVD+RW – 8cm DVD+R DL

Use the discs with marks listed below. See page 16 for details.

For reliability durability of recording / playback, we recommend that you use Sony discs or discs with an VIDEO CAMERA) mark for your DVD Handycam.

• Using a disc other than above may cause the unsatisfactory recording/playback or you may not be able to remove the disc from your DVD Handycam.

* Depending on the place you bought, the disc has

a mark.

*(for

Continued ,

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Read this before operating your camcorder (Continued)

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

(p. 128).

“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.”

• “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 parts.

Viewfinder LCD screen

• The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See “Maintenance and precautions” (p. 131).

• To prevent discs from being broken or recorded images from being lost, do not do the following when either of the respective lamps of the POWER switch (p. 29) or the ACCESS lamp (p. 33) is on:

– to remove the battery pack or AC

Adaptor from the camcorder.

– to apply mechanical shock or vibration to

the camcorder.

• When connecting your camcorder to another device with an HDMI cable, a component video cable, or a USB cable, be sure to insert the connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the terminal and may result in a malfunction of your camcorder.

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

Battery

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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 images 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 image and sound are recorded without any problems. You cannot delete images once you record them on a DVD-R/DVD+R DL. Use a DVD-RW/DVD+RW for trial recording (p. 16).

• 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 a PAL 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 the disc on other devices

You can play back, or format discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality

only on AVCHD format compatible 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.

• Design and specifications of recording media and other accessories are subject to change without notice.

• Disc in this Operating Guide refers to 8cm DVD discs.

• 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. 20).

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.

About the marks used in this manual

• The operations available depend on the disc used. The following marks are used to indicate the type of disc you can use for a particular operation.

• These marks indicate the discs that can be used when recording with HD (high definition) image quality.

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Table of Contents

Read this before operating your camcorder ............................................. 2

Subject examples and solutions ............................................................ 10

Read This First (supplied)

Provides features and information about the camcorder you should know before using it.

Enjoying your camcorder

Operation flow ........................................................................................ 12

Experience the beauty of HD (high definition) images ...........................14

Selecting the right disc ...........................................................................16

“ HOME” and “ OPTION”

- Taking advantage of two types of menus ...................................18

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................25

Step 2: Charging the battery pack ......................................................... 26

Step 3: Turning the power on .................................................................29

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................30

Step 5: Setting the date and time ...........................................................31

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” ..................................33

Shooting

Recording the images ............................................................................36

Zooming Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording) Using the flash Recording high quality still images during movie recording (Dual Rec) Recording in dark places (NightShot) Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects Recording in mirror mode Recording the fast action in slow-motion (SMTH SLW REC) Controlling the image settings manually with the camera control ring

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Playback

Viewing the images ................................................................................44

Using PB zoom Playing back a series of still images (Slide show)

Playing the image on a TV .....................................................................48

Editing

(OTHERS) category .........................................................................54

Deleting images ......................................................................................54

Dividing the image ..................................................................................56

Creating the Playlist ...............................................................................57

Dubbing/printing

(SELECT DEVICES) category .........................................................61

Dubbing a disc ........................................................................................61

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders ................................................62

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) ........................63

Utilizing recording media

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY) category ............................................65

Making the disc compatible with playback on other devices or DVD drives

(Finalizing) ....................................................................................66

Playing a disc on other devices ..............................................................70

Finding the right disc - DISC SELECT GUIDE .......................................71

Deleting all scenes on the disc (Formatting) ..........................................72

Recording additional scenes after finalizing (Unfinalize) ........................74

Checking the disc information ................................................................75

Continued ,

Page 8

Customizing your camcorder

What you can do with the (SETTINGS) category of

the HOME MENU .........................................................................76

Using the HOME MENU List of the (SETTINGS) category items

MOVIE SETTINGS ................................................................................78

(Items for recording movies)

PHOTO SETTINGS ...............................................................................81

(Items for recording still images)

VIEW IMAGES SET................................................................................ 84

(Items to customize the sound volume and display)

SOUND/DISP SET .................................................................................85

(Items to adjust beep and the screen)

OUTPUT SETTINGS .............................................................................86

(Items for when connecting other devices)

CLOCK/ LANG ....................................................................................87

(Items to set clock and language)

GENERAL SET ...................................................................................... 87

(Other setup items)

Activating functions using the OPTION MENU ................................. 88

Using the OPTION MENU

Recording items on the OPTION MENU ................................................89

PROGRAM AE, FADER, SPOT METER, etc.

Viewing items on the OPTION MENU ................................................... 95

VOLUME, SLIDE SHOW, SLIDE SHOW SET, etc.

Using a Computer

What you can do with Windows computer .............................................96

Installing the “First Step Guide” and software ........................................ 98

Viewing “First Step Guide” ...................................................................101

Using a Macintosh computer ............................................................... 101

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Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting ....................................................................................103

Warning indicators and messages .......................................................118

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad ..............................................................123

About the Disc ......................................................................................125

About the AVCHD format .....................................................................127

About the “Memory Stick” .....................................................................128

About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ..................................................130

Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................131

Specifications .......................................................................................134

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................138

Indicators displayed during recording/playback ...................................143

Glossary ...............................................................................................146

Index .....................................................................................................148

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Subject examples and solutions

Shooting

Checking your golf swing

B Smooth slow recording.............42

Flowers in close-up

B Soft portrait...............................91

B Focus ........................................90

B Telemacro .................................90

Focusing on the dog on the left side of the screen

B Focus ........................................90

B Spot focus.................................90

Focusing more distant objects

B Landscape.................................92

B Focus ........................................90

Capturing still images during movie recording

B Dual Rec....................................40

Getting a good shot of a ski slope or beach

B Backlight ...................................41

B Beach&Ski.................................91

Page 11

A child on the stage under a spot light

B Spotlight ...................................91

Fireworks with all its splendor

B Sunset&Moon...........................91

B Focus ........................................90

A sleeping child under dim light

B NightShot..................................41

B Color Slow Shutter....................92

Playback

Viewing on the TV screen

Playing the disc on another device

Editing, others

Deleting the unnecessary images

Copying a disc for your friend

Using the disc again

Using your camcorder on a trip

..................................48

..................................70

..................................54

..................................61

..................................72

................................123

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Enjoying your camcorder

Operation flow

B Unpack the camcorder and the supplied

accessories.

Read the supplied “Read This First” before you use your camcorder.

B Prepare the right disc (p. 16).

You can consult the [DISC SELECT GUIDE] (page

71) displayed on the screen to select the right disc.

• You will find a chart to help you select a disc in the supplied “Read This First.”

B Initialize the disc (p. 33).

When you format the disc, you can select the recording image quality, HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition).

B Shoot using your camcorder (p. 36).

Movies are recorded on the disc, and still images are recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo.”

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Enjoying movies recorded with the HD (high definition) image quality

B You can view the movies with the HD (high definition) image quality (p. 48).

b Notes

• Images recorded with the SD (standard definition) image quality cannot be converted to HD (high definition) image quality.

z Tips

• If your TV is not a high definition TV, movies with HD (high definition) image quality will be displayed with SD (standard definition) image quality.

• You can consult the [TV CONNECT Guide] (p. 48) displayed on the screen on connecting your TV and camcorder.

B Playing discs on AVCHD format compatible devices (p. 70).

Important notice regarding discs recorded in the AVCHD format

The camcorder captures high definition footage in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing AVCHD footage may not be used with standard DVD players or recorders, as the DVD player/recorder may fail to eject the media and may erase its contents without warning.

B Editing and copying disc contents (p. 62).

You can dub images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality by connecting your camcorder to a DVD device. Note that the dubbed images will be recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality.

Enjoying your camcorder

Using a computer, you can edit or copy images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality.

b Notes

• Install the supplied application software on the computer in advance.

Page 14

Experience the beauty of HD (high definition) images

B Your camcorder offers both AVCHD and DVD recording formats.

The recording format depends on the image quality, HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition). Select the image quality when you use a new disc on your camcorder (p. 33).

b Notes

• You cannot change the image quality of a disc midway.

• The images recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality cannot be converted to HD (high definition) image quality.

• Your camcorder is compatible with the “1440 × 1080/50i” standard of AVCHD format (p. 127). “AVCHD 1080i format” is abbreviated as “AVCHD” in this manual, except when it must be described in more detail.

B HD (high definition) image quality B SD (standard definition) image

quality

AVCHD format

Image resolution:

3.75 times of that of SD

about (standard definition)

DVD format

Records high definition images. Recommended whether or not you have a high definition TV. The disc can be played only on the devices compatible with the AVCHD format (p. 70).

b Notes

• AVCHD images cannot be played on most currently available DVD devices, which are incompatible with the AVCHD format.

z Tips

• AVCHD images can be viewed even on nonhigh definition TVs. The image quality, however, is equivalent to SD (standard definition) image quality (p. 48).

Records standard definition images. Recommended if playback compatibility is important. The disc can be played on DVD devices.

b Notes

• DVD-RW (VR mode) discs can be played on the compatible devices only.

Page 15

Recording time

Expected recordable time on one side of a disc

Enjoying your camcorder

HD (high definition) image quality ( ): the minimum recording

AVCHD format Approximate recordable time (min.)

Recording mode

AVC HD 12M (HQ+) (highest quality)

AVC HD 9M (HQ) (high quality)

AVC HD 7M (SP) (standard quality)

AVC HD 5M (LP) (long play)

15 (14)

20 (14) 35 (26)

25 (18) 45 (34)

32 (26)

27 (26)

60 (50)

SD (standard definition) image quality ( ): the minimum recording

DVD format Approximate recordable time (min.)

Recording mode

SD 9M (HQ) (high quality)

SD 6M (SP) (standard quality)

SD 3M (LP) (long play)

z Tips

• Figures such as 12M and 9M in the table show the average bit rate. M stands for Mbps.

20 (18)

30 (18) 55 (32)

60 (44)

35 (32)

110 (80)

• If you use a double-sided disc, you can record on both sides of the disc (p. 125).

time

Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit Rate) format to automatically adjust image quality to suit the recording scene. This technology causes fluctuations in the recording time of a disc. Movies containing quickly moving and complex images are recorded at a higher bit rate, and this reduces the overall recording time.

Page 16

Selecting the right disc

You can use DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, and DVD+R DL discs of 8 cm in diameter with your camcorder. What you can do with the recorded images depends on the image recording quality, HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition), and the type of disc you selected.

B Selecting the right disc for your purposes

The following reference materials are available.

• “Select the right disc” in the supplied “Read This First.”

• [DISC SELECT GUIDE] (p. 71).

• Disc characteristics explained on this page.

HD (high definition) image quality Disc type

What you can do on your camcorder using this type of disc

(Disc symbols)

Deleting images on your camcorder (54)

Editing images on your camcorder (56)

Finalizing required to play on other devices (66)

Making additional recordings on a finalized disc (74)

Formatting the used disc to use it again (72)

Making longer recordings on a side of a disc --a -

( ) indicates the reference page.

b Notes

• The aspect ratio of images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality is 16:9 (wide).

aa --

aaaa

aa --

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SD (standard definition) image quality

What you can do on your camcorder using this type of disc

(Disc symbols)

Disc type

Enjoying your camcorder

Recording movies at an aspect ratio of 16:9 (wide) and 4:3 on a disc (34)

Deleting images on your camcorder (54)

Editing images on your camcorder (56)

Finalizing required to play on other devices (66)

Making additional recordings on a finalized disc (74)

Creating DVD menus during finalizing (66)

Formatting the used disc to use it again (72)

Making longer recordings on a side of a disc

( ) indicates the reference page.

*1 There are 2 recording formats, VIDEO mode and VR mode, for DVD-RW. *2 Finalizing is required to play the disc in a DVD drive on a computer. A DVD+RW that is not finalized

may cause the computer to malfunction.

aa - aa

- a ---

aa-*

aaa --

a - aaa

aaa --

---a -

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Enjoying your camcorder

“ HOME” and “ OPTION”

- Taking advantage of two types of menus

“ HOME MENU” - the starting point for all operations with your camcorder

When you want to customize your camcorder, open the “HOME MENU.” This menu is the gateway to all the functions of your camcorder. See page 20 for further details.

I don’t want to keep these still images. What should I do?

Try [DELETE] in [EDIT] on the HOME MENU. You can select and delete them all at once.

(HELP)

Displays a description of the item (p. 22).

(HOME)

Category (p. 23)

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“ OPTION MENU” enables you to access functions directly

Just a touch on the screen during shooting or playback displays the functions available at that moment. You will find it easy to make various settings. See page 24 for further details.

I want be sure which still image I am deleting. What should I do?

Turn on the OPTION MENU when you are viewing images, then try [DELETE]. You can delete the image on the screen.

(OPTION)

Enjoying your camcorder

Uh huh, the OPTION MENU items are different, depending on what I’m doing.

Page 20

x Notes on the menu operation

Place your fingers on the rear side of the LCD panel (touch panel) to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen with your thumb.

Perform the same actions as explained above when you press the buttons on the LCD panel.

• Be careful not to press the buttons below the LCD panel accidentally while using the touch panel.

• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly, adjust the touch panel (CALIBRATION) (p. 132).

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. To select the screen language, touch

(SETTINGS) t [CLOCK/ LANG] t

[ LANGUAGE SET]

(p. 87).

Using the HOME MENU

Selecting and deleting a still image on the edit screen is explained as an example.

1 Slide the POWER switch to turn

on your camcorder.

2 Press (HOME) A (or B).

(HOME) B

(HOME) A

HOME MENU

Category (p. 23)

Page 21

3 Touch the (OTHERS)

category.

7 Touch the image you want to

delete.

Enjoying your camcorder

4 Touch [EDIT].

5 Touch [ DELETE].

6 Touch [ DELETE].

8 Touch t [YES] t .

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B When you want to know something

about the function of each item on the HOME MENU - HELP

1 Press (HOME).

The HOME MENU appears.

2 Touch (HELP).

The bottom of the (HELP) button turns orange.

3 Touch the item you want to know

the content.

When you touch an item, its explanation appears on the screen. To apply the option, touch [YES], otherwise, touch [NO].

To deactivate the HELP

Touch (HELP) in step 2.

Page 23

B Categories and items of the HOME MENU

Category Item

CAMERA

VIEW IMAGES

MOVIE (p. 37) PHOTO (p. 38) SMTH SLW REC (p. 42)

VISUAL INDEX (p. 46) PLAYLIST (p. 57)

Enjoying your camcorder

OTHERS EDIT (p. 54)

SELECT DEVICES COMPUTER (p. 61)

MANAGE DISC/MEMORY

SETTINGS

PLAYLIST EDIT (p. 57) PRINT (p. 63)

TV CONNECT Guide (p. 48) PRINTER (p. 63)

FINALIZE (p. 66) DISC SELECT GUIDE (p. 71)

FORMAT (p. 72)

FORMAT (p. 73) UNFINALIZE (p. 74) DISC INFO (p. 75)

To customize your camcorder (p. 76).

Page 24

Using the OPTION MENU

Deleting a still image during viewing is explained as an example.

1 While viewing the still image you

want to delete, touch (OPTION) on the screen.

(OPTION)

OPTION MENU

Tab

3 Touch [DELETE] t [YES] t .

Items on the OPTION MENU

See pages 89 and 95.

When the item you want is not on the screen

Touch another tab. If you cannot find the item anywhere, the function does not work under the situation.

b Notes

• The tabs and items that appear on the screen depend on the recording/playback status of your camcorder at the time.

• Some items appear without a tab.

2 Touch .

Page 25

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

Make sure that you have the following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied.

AC Adaptor (1) (p. 26)

Mains lead (1) (p. 26)

Component video cable (1) (p. 49)

A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 49, 62)

USB cable (1) (p. 63)

Rechargeable battery pack NP-FM50 (1) (p. 26, 130)

CD-ROM “Handycam Application Software” (1) (p. 96)

Read This First (1)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

b Notes

• Discs and “Memory Stick Duo” are not included.

Getting Started

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 142)

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

Page 26

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series) (p. 130) after attaching it to your camcorder.

DC IN jack

POWER switch

CHG (charge) lamp

DC plug

Mains lead

To the wall socket

Jack cover

Battery

AC Adaptor

1 Slide the POWER switch in the

direction of the arrow to OFF (CHG) (The default setting).

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack of your camcorder.

Open the jack cover, and connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor.

Jack cover

Facing up the v mark on the DC plug, match it with the v mark on your camcorder.

4 Connect the mains lead to the AC

Adaptor and the wall socket.

The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged.

2 Attach the battery pack by sliding

it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.

5 Disconnect the AC Adaptor from

the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

b Notes

• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN

jack holding both the camcorder and the DC plug.

Page 27

z Tips

• If you attach the battery pack or connect the AC Adaptor when the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), your camcorder turns on, then off again, after a few seconds.

To remove the battery pack

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Slide the BATT (battery release) lever and remove the battery pack.

BATT (battery release) lever

b Notes

• When you remove the battery pack, make sure that the (Movie) lamp/ (Still) lamp (p. 29) is turned off.

When storing the battery pack

Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (see page 130 for the details of storage).

To use an outside power source

Make the same connections as you do when charging the battery pack. The battery pack will not lose its charge in this case.

To check the remaining battery (Battery Info)

Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/BATT INFO.

After a while, the approximate recordable time in the selected format and battery information appear for about 7 seconds. You can view the battery information for up to 20 seconds by pressing DISP/BATT INFO again while the information is displayed.

Remaining battery (approx.)

Recording capacity (approx.)

Charging time

Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.

Battery pack Charging time

NP-FM50 (supplied)

NP-QM71D 260

NP-QM91D 360

150

Recording time

Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.

HD (high definition) image quality

Continuous

Battery pack

NP-FM50 (supplied)

NP-QM71D 235 125

recording time

Typical recording time*

95 50

100 55

95 50

245 130

240 130

Getting Started

Continued ,

Page 28

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

Battery pack

Continuous recording time

Typical recording time*

NP-QM91D 360 195

375 205

365 200

SD (standard definition) image quality

Battery pack

NP-FM50 (supplied)

Continuous recording time

Typical recording time*

120 65

125 65

120 65

NP-QM71D 300 165

305 165

300 165

NP-QM91D 455 250

465 255

455 250

* Typical recording time shows the time when

you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/off and zooming.

b Notes

• All times measured with recording mode [SP]

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.

Playing time

Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.

HD (high definition) image quality

Battery pack

LCD panel opened*

NP-FM50 (supplied)

NP-QM71D 305 305

NP-QM91D 465 465

LCD panel closed

125 125

SD (standard definition) image quality

Battery pack

NP-FM50

LCD panel opened*

LCD panel closed

140 145

(supplied)

NP-QM71D 340 355

NP-QM91D 520 535

* When the LCD backlight is on.

On the battery pack

• Before changing the battery pack, slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) and turn off the

(Movie) lamp/ (Still) lamp (p. 29).

• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or Battery Info (p. 27) 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 mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket.

• When attaching an optional video light, it is recommended that you use an NP-QM71D or NP-QM91D battery pack.

• We do not recommend using an NP-FM30, which only allows short recording and playback times, with your camcorder.

On the charging/recording/playback time

• Times measured when using the camcorder at 25 °C (77 °F) (10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is recommended).

• The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperatures.

• The recording and playback time will be shorter depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder.

Page 29

On the AC Adaptor

• Use the nearby wall socket when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the 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.

PRECAUTION

• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (mains) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall socket via the AC Adaptor.

Step 3: Turning the power on

To record, slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 31).

Lens cover

POWER switch

Getting Started

While pressing the green button in the center, slide the POWER switch repeatedly in the direction of the arrow to turn on the power.

Green button

When you record, switch the power mode by sliding the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow until the respective lamp lights up.

(Movie): To record movies

(Still): To record still images

Continued ,

Page 30

Step 3: Turning the power on (Continued)

To turn off the power

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

b Notes

• It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be

ready to shoot after the power is turned on. You cannot operate your camcorder during this time.

• The lens cover opens automatically when the

power is turned on. It closes when the playback screen is selected, or the power is turned off.

• In the setting at the time of purchase, the power

turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 88).

Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder

LCD panel

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2).

290 degrees (max.)

2180 degrees (max.)

To turn off the LCD backlight to make the battery last longer

Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds until appears. This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or you want to save battery power. The recorded image will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold DISP/ BATT INFO for a few seconds until disappears.

DISP/BATT INFO

190 degrees to the camcorder

To hide the screen indicators

Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the screen indicators (such as time code) on or off.

b Notes

• Do not press the buttons below the LCD screen accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD panel.

Page 31

z Tips

• If you open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder, then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing out. This is convenient during playback operations.

• On the HOME MENU, touch (SETTINGS) t [SOUND/DISP SET] t [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 85) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

Viewfinder

You can view images using the viewfinder to avoid wearing down the battery, or when the image seen on the LCD screen is poor.

Viewfinder

Step 5: Setting the date and time

Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.

b Notes

• If you do not use your camcorder for about 4 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets

discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the built-in rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 133).

(HOME) B

POWER switch

Getting Started

Viewfinder lens adjustment lever

Move it until the image is clear.

z Tips

• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder

backlight by selecting (SETTINGS) t [SOUND/DISP SET] t [VF B.LIGHT] on the HOME MENU (p. 85).

(HOME) A

Skip to step 5 when you set the clock for the first time.

1 Press (HOME) A (or B) to

display the HOME MENU.

2 Touch (SETTINGS).

Continued ,

Page 32

Step 5: Setting the date and time (Continued)

3 Display [CLOCK/ LANG] with v/

V, then touch it.

4 Touch [CLOCK SET].

5 Select the desired geographical

area with v/V, then touch [NEXT].

6 Set [SUMMERTIME], then touch

[NEXT].

7 Set [Y] (year) with v/V.

Make sure that the clock is correctly set, then touch .

The clock starts.

You can set any year up to the year

2037.

z Tips

• The date and time does not appear during

recording, but they are automatically recorded on the disc, and can be displayed during playback (see page 84 for [DATA CODE]).

• Refer to page 124 for information concerning

“World time difference.”

8 Select [M] with b/B, then set the

month.

9 Set [D] (day), hour and minute in

the same way, then touch [NEXT].

Page 33

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo”

Disc

A new 8 cm DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, or DVD+R DL is required for recording (p. 16).

b Notes

• Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc

beforehand, using a soft cloth (p.126).

POWER switch

ACCESS lamp (Disc)

1 Check that the power of your

camcorder is on.

2 Slide the disc cover OPEN switch

in the direction of the arrow (OPEN B).

[PREPARING TO OPEN] appears on the LCD screen. Then the opening chime sounds, followed by bip, bip.

After the bips stop, the disc cover opens slightly, automatically.

Disc cover OPEN switch

Pickup lens

Getting Started

When the disc cover opens slightly, open it further.

3 Set the disc with the recording

side facing your camcorder, then press the center of the disc until it clicks.

Set the disc with the label side facing out when using a single-sided disc.

4 Close the disc cover.

[DISC ACCESS] appears on the LCD screen.

It may take some time for the camcorder to recognize the disc, depending on the disc type and condition.

Continued ,

Page 34

Step 6: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” (Continued)

Skip to step 6 when you use a DVD-R/ DVD+R DL.

5 When you use a DVD-RW/

DVD+RW, touch [Use DISC SELECT GUIDE].

6 Touch [Record HD (high

definition) images.].

Touch [Record SD (standard definition) images.] to record with SD (standard definition) image quality. Items displayed vary depending on the status of your camcorder, or the type of disc inserted.

b Notes

• You cannot change the image quality (HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition)) of a disc midway.

• See page 14 for details on HD (high definition)/ SD (standard definition) image quality.

7 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

The disc will be formatted with the image recording quality and mode you selected. When the formatting is completed, you can start recording on the disc.

If you select SD (standard definition) image quality

• When you use a DVD-RW, a record mode, [VIDEO] or [VR], will be assigned automatically (

p. 17).

• When you use a DVD+RW, select the aspect ratio, [16:9 WIDE] or [4:3].

To remove the disc

Perform steps 1 and 2 to open the disc cover, then remove the disc.

b Notes

• Be careful not to obstruct the operation with your hand or other objects, etc., when opening or closing the disc cover. Move the belt to the bottom of the camcorder, then open or close the disc cover.

• If you catch the belt when closing the disc cover, it may cause your camcorder to malfunction.

• Do not touch the disc with the recording side or pickup lens (p.133). When using a double-sided disc, take care not to smudge the surface with fingerprints.

• If you close the disc cover with the disc set incorrectly, it may cause your camcorder to malfunction.

• Do not disconnect the power sources during formatting.

• Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder:

– while the ACCESS lamp is on – while the ACCESS lamp is flashing – while [DISC ACCESS] or [PREPARING TO

OPEN] is displayed on the LCD screen

• It may take some time to remove the disc depending on the disc condition or recorded materials.

• It may take up to 10 minutes to remove a disc if it is damaged or is dirty with fingerprints, etc. In that case, the disc might be damaged.

z Tips

• You can remove the disc when a power source is connected to your camcorder even when your camcorder is turned off. However, the disc recognition process (step 4) does not start.

• To delete all of the previously recorded images from a DVD-RW/DVD+RW, then to use it

Page 35

again to record new images, see “Deleting all scenes on the disc (Formatting)” on page 72.

• You can check the right disc using [DISC SELECT GUIDE] on the HOME MENU (page

71).

“Memory Stick Duo”

You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

(p. 128).

1 Open the LCD panel.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”

into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot in the right direction until it clicks.

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.

• If you force 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.

• When inserting or ejecting the “Memory Stick Duo,” be careful so that the “Memory Stick Duo” does not pop out and drop.

z Tips

• The number of recordable images vary, depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 81.

Getting Started

Access lamp (“Memory Stick Duo”)

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

Open the LCD panel, lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” in once.

Page 36

Shooting

Recording the images

START/STOP B

POWER switch

START/STOP A

Fastening the grip belt

(HOME) C

(HOME) D

PHOTO

Lens cover

Opens in accordance with the setting of the POWER switch.

b Notes

• If the ACCESS lamp (page 33, 35) is on after

recording is finished, it means data is still being written onto the disc or “Memory Stick Duo.” Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder, and do not disconnect the battery or AC Adaptor.

Page 37

Recording movies

Movies are recorded on the disc.

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow to light up the (Movie) lamp.

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow while pressing the green button only when the POWER switch is in the OFF (CHG) position.

Press START/STOP A (or B).

[STBY]

To stop recording, press START/STOP again.

To record high resolution still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” during shooting a movie (Dual Rec)

t See page 40.

To switch to the movie recording mode using the (HOME) button

1 Press (HOME) C (or D) when the power of the camcorder is on. 2 Touch the (CAMERA) category on the HOME MENU. 3 Touch [MOVIE].

[REC]

Shooting

Continued ,

Page 38

Recording the images (Continued)

Recording still images

Still images are recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.”

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow to light up the (Still) lamp.

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow while pressing the green button only when the POWER switch is in the OFF (CHG) position.

Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus A, then press it fully B.

Beep Click

Flashing bLights up

A shutter sound is heard. When disappears, the image has been recorded.

To switch to the still image recording mode using the (HOME) button

1 Press (HOME) C (or D) when the power of the camcorder is on. 2 Touch the (CAMERA) category on the HOME MENU. 3 Touch [PHOTO].

Page 39

Shooting

Recording the images

Zooming

You can magnify images from about 1.1 to 10 times the original size with the power zoom lever or the zoom buttons below the LCD screen.

Wider range of view: (Wide angle)

Close view: (Telephoto)

Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.

b Notes

• Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom lever. If you move your finger off the power zoom lever, the operation sound of the power zoom lever may also be recorded.

• You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons below the LCD screen.

• The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.

z Tips

• You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 79) if you want to zoom to a level greater than 10 ×.

Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording)

Sound picked up by the built-in 4ch microphone is converted to 5.1ch surround sound and recorded.

Active Interface Shoe

Built-in 4ch microphone

Your camcorder has Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator installed for recording 5.1ch surround sound. Enjoy realistic sound when playing the disc on devices that support 5.1ch surround sound.

Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator, 5.1ch surround sound

Glossary (p.146)

b Notes

• To play the disc recorded with HD (high definition) image quality and enjoy the sound in

5.1ch surround, you need an AVCHD format device compatible with 5.1ch surround (page

70).

• 5.1ch sound is converted to 2ch when played back on your camcorder.

• is displayed on the screen during 5.1ch recording/playback.

To record with a wireless microphone

By attaching the wireless microphone (optional*) to the Active Interface Shoe (p. 139), you can record distant sound. This distant sound is allotted to the front center part of the 5.1ch surround sound, mixed with the sound picked up by the built-in 4ch microphone, and recorded. You can enjoy more realistic sound by playing

Continued ,

Shooting

Page 40

Recording the images (Continued)

the disc on the device that supports 5.1ch surround sound. For details, refer to the instruction manual of your wireless microphone.

Optional wireless microphone is not available in

all countries/regions.

Using the flash

Flash

Flash charge lamp

Press (flash) repeatedly to select an appropriate setting.

No indication (Auto flash): Automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light.

(Forced flash): Always uses the flash

regardless of the surrounding brightness.

(No flash): Records without flash.

b Notes

• The recommended distance to the subject when using the built-in flash is approximately 0.5 to

2.5 m (1 5/8 to 8 feet).

• Remove any dust from the surface of the flash lamp before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if heat discoloration or dust obscures the lamp.

• The flash charge lamp flickers while charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge is complete.

• If you use the flash in bright places such as when shooting a backlit subject, the flash may not be effective.

• When attaching a conversion lens (optional) or a filter (optional) to your camcorder, the flash light does not emit light.

z Tips

• You can change the brightness of the flash by setting [FLASH LEVEL] (p. 83), or you can prevent the redeye by setting [REDEYE REDUC] (p. 83).

Recording high quality still images during movie recording (Dual Rec)

You can record high quality still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” while recording a movie on the disc.

1 Press START/STOP to start movie

recording.

2 Press PHOTO fully.

After you start recording, and before you finish, you can select up to 3 frames of still images from your movie.

Orange color boxes indicate the number of recorded images. When recording is finished, the color changes to orange.

3 Press START/STOP to stop movie

recording. Stored still images appear one by one, and

the images are stored onto the “Memory Stick Duo.” When disappears, the image has been recorded.

b Notes

• Do not eject the “Memory Stick Duo” before recording is finished and the still images are stored on the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• You cannot use the flash during Dual Rec.

Page 41

z Tips

• When the POWER switch is set to (Movie), the size of still images becomes

2.3M (16:9 wide) or 1.7M (4:3).

• You can record still images during recording standby in the same way as when the POWER switch is set to (Still). You can also record with the flash.

Recording in dark places (NightShot)

Infrared port

Set the NIGHTSHOT switch to ON. ( appears.)

b Notes

• The NightShot and Super NightShot functions use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects. and remove the conversion lens (optional).

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 90) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• Do not use the NightShot and Super NightShot functions in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

z Tips

• To record an image brighter, use Super NightShot function (p. 93). To record an image more faithfully to the original colors, use Color Slow Shutter function (p. 92).

Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects

To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects, press BACK LIGHT to display .. To cancel the back light function, press BACK LIGHT again.

Recording in mirror mode

Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (2).

z Tips

• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the image will be normal when recorded.

Shooting

Continued ,

Page 42

Recording the images (Continued)

Recording the fast action in slow-motion (SMTH SLW REC)

Fast moving subjects and actions, which cannot be captured under the ordinary shooting conditions, can be shot in smooth moving slow-motion for about 3 seconds. This is useful to shoot fast actions such as a golf or tennis swing.

(HOME) B

(HOME) A

1 Slide the POWER switch to turn on the

camcorder.

2 Press (HOME) A (or B) to display

the HOME MENU.

3 Touch (CAMERA). 4 Touch [SMTH SLW REC].

5 Press START/STOP.

An about 3 second-movie is recorded as a 12 second-slow-motion-movie.

When [Recording···] disappears, recording is finished.

Touch to cancel the smooth slow recording.

To select the start point

The default setting is [3sec AFTER]. 1 Touch (OPTION) on the [SMTH

SLW REC] screen.

2 Touch . 3 Touch [TIMING].

Select one of the following start points for recording.

[3sec AFTER]

[3sec BEFORE]

b Notes

• Sounds cannot be recorded.

Controlling the image settings manually with the camera control ring

You can assign one menu item you use often to the camera control ring. Since the focus adjustment is assigned to the camera control ring in the default settings, the operation below is described as adjusting the focus using the ring.

Camera control ring

1 Press MANUAL to activate the manual

adjustment mode.

Pressing MANUAL switches the setting mode between automatic and manual.

2 Rotate the camera control ring to adjust the

focus.

Items you can assign to the camera control ring

– [FOCUS] (p. 90) – [EXPOSURE] (p. 91)

Page 43

–[AE SHIFT] (p.78) – [WB SHIFT] (p. 78)

To assign the menu items to the camera control ring

1 Press and hold MANUAL for a few

seconds.

The [RING SETTING] screen appears.

2 Rotate the camera control ring and select

the item to be assigned.

3 Press MANUAL.

z Tips

• The functions of the items that can be assigned to the camera control ring are the same as those of menu operation.

• If you select [RESET] while adjusting an item manually, all the items adjusted manually are reset to the default settings.

• You can assign the menu item to the camera control ring in the HOME MENU by selecting

(SETTINGS) t [MOVIE SETTINGS]/

[PHOTO SETTINGS] t [RING SETTING] (p. 80).

Shooting

Page 44

Playback

Viewing the images

Lens cover

Closes in accordance with

(VIEW IMAGES).

(HOME) D

(HOME) C

POWER switch

(VIEW IMAGES) B

(VIEW IMAGES) A

Slide the POWER switch to turn on your camcorder.

Press (VIEW IMAGES) A (or B).

The VISUAL INDEX screen appears on the LCD screen. (It may take some time to display the VISUAL INDEX screen.)

Appears with the image on each of the tab that was

Returns to the recording screen

Previous 12 images

Next 12 images

Returns to the recording screen

lastly played back/recorded (B for the still image).

Displays the movies

Displays the still images

Disc type

(OPTION)

Page 45

Playing movies

On the VISUAL INDEX screen, touch the tab and the movie to be played back.

Toggles Play or Pause as you touch

Return (to the VISUAL INDEX screen)

Beginning of the scene/previous scene

Stop (go to the VISUAL INDEX screen)

Reverse/ Forward

Next scene

(OPTION)

To play back movies slowly

Touch / during pause.

To adjust the sound volume

Touch (OPTION) t tab t [VOLUME], then adjust the volume with / .

z Tips

• A touch of / makes the reverse/fast forward approximately 5 times faster, 2 touches makes it approximately 10 times faster (Approximately 8 times faster using DVD+RW with SD (standard definition) image quality).

• There is i on the movie you played the last time. If you touch the movie, you can play it back from the point you have stopped.

Playback

Continued ,

Page 46

Viewing the images (Continued)

Viewing still images

On the VISUAL INDEX screen, touch the tab and the still image to be played back.

Return (to the VISUAL INDEX screen)

Go to the VISUAL INDEX screen

Previous/Next

To switch to the playback mode using the (HOME) button

1 Press (HOME) C (or D) when the power of the camcorder is on. 2 Touch the (VIEW IMAGES) category on the HOME MENU. 3 Touch [VISUAL INDEX].

(OPTION)

Page 47

Playback

Using PB zoom Playing back a series of still

You can magnify still images from about

1.1 to 5 times the original size.

Magnification can be adjusted with the power zoom lever or the zoom buttons below the LCD screen.

1 Play back the still images you want to

magnify.

2 Magnify the still image with T

(Telephoto). The screen is framed.

3 Touch the screen at the point you want

to display in the center of the displayed frame.

4 Adjust the magnification with W (Wide

angle)/T (Telephoto).

To cancel, touch .

b Notes

• You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons below the LCD screen.

images (Slide show)

Touch on the still image playback screen. The slide show begins from the selected image. Touch to stop the slide show. To restart, touch again.

z Tips

• You can set continuous slide show playback using [SLIDE SHOW SET] on (OPTION). The default setting is [ON] (continuous playback).

b Notes

• You cannot operate playback zoom during slide show.

Playback

Page 48

Playing the image on a TV

Connection methods and quality of the image viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the connectors used. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 26). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected.

Operation flow

You can make sure that you are connecting the TV correctly using [TV CONNECT Guide] displayed on the LCD screen.

Switch the input on the TV to the connected jack.

Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.

Connect your camcorder and TV referring to [TV CONNECT Guide].

Make the required output settings on your camcorder (page 49).

Jacks on your camcorder

Open the jack cover and connect the cable.

Selecting the most advantageous connection - TV CONNECT Guide

Your camcorder will advise you of the most advantageous way of connecting your TV.

1 Turn on your camcorder, and

press (HOME).

2 Touch (SELECT DEVICES).

3 Touch [TV CONNECT Guide].

4 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

Meanwhile, you can make the relevant connection between your camcorder and the TV.

Page 49

Connecting to a high definition TV

Images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality are played back with HD (high definition) image quality. Images recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality are played back with SD (standard definition) image quality.

Input jacks on the TV

Playback

t (p. 49)

Type Camcorder Cable TV HOME MENU setting

Component video cable (supplied)

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

b Notes

• An A/V connecting cable is also needed to output audio signals. Connect the white and red plugs of the A/ V connecting cable to the audio input jack of your TV.

(Green) Y

(Blue) PB/C

(Red) PR/C

t (p. 50)

: Signal flow

(SETTINGS) t

[OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [COMPONENT] t [1080i/576i] (p. 86)

(Red)

(White)

(Yellow)

Continued ,

Page 50

Playing the image on a TV (Continued)

: Signal flow

Type Camcorder Cable TV HOME MENU setting

HDMI cable (optional)

b Notes

• Use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo.

• Images are not output from the HDMI OUT jack, if copyright protection signals are recorded in the

images.

• Some TVs may not function correctly (e.g., no sound or image) with this connection.

• Do not connect the HDMI OUT jack of your camcorder and HDMI OUT jack of the external device with

the HDMI cable. This may cause a malfunction.

Page 51

Connecting to a non-high-definition 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV

Images recorded with HD (high definition) quality is converted to SD (standard definition) and played back. Images recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality are played back with SD (standard definition) image quality.

Input jacks on the TV

Playback

t (p. 52)t (p. 52)

t (p. 52)

To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3)

Set [TV TYPE] to [16:9] or [4:3] according to your TV (p. 86).

b Notes

• When you play back a movie recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality on a 4:3 TV that is not compatible with the 16:9 signal, display the HOME MENU, then select (SETTINGS) t [MOVIE SETTINGS] t [WIDE SELECT] t [4:3] on your camcorder when recording an image (p. 79).

Continued ,

Page 52

Playing the image on a TV (Continued)

: Signal flow

Type Camcorder Cable TV HOME MENU setting

(SETTINGS) t

Component video cable (supplied)

(Green) Y

(Blue) PB/C

(Red) PR/C

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

(Red)

(White)

(Yellow)

b Notes

• An A/V connecting cable is also needed to output audio signals. Connect the white and red plugs of the A/

V connecting cable to the audio input jack of your TV.

A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional)

(Red)

(White)

(Yellow)

b Notes

• When the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) is connected, audio signals are not output. To output audio

signals, connect the white and red plugs of an A/V connecting cable with the S VIDEO cable to the audio input jack of your TV.

• This connection produces higher resolution images compared with the A/V connecting cable (Type ).

A/V connecting cable (supplied)

(Red)

(White)

(Yellow)

[OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [COMPONENT] t [576i] (p. 86)

(SETTINGS) t

[OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [TV TYPE] t [16:9]/ [4:3] (p. 86)

(SETTINGS) t

[OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [TV TYPE] t [16:9]/ [4:3] (p. 86)

(SETTINGS) t

[OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [TV TYPE] t [16:9]/ [4:3] (p. 86)

Page 53

When connecting to your TV via a VCR

Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, etc.).

When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack)

Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the white (left channel) or red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR. When you want to play the sound in monaural mode, use a connecting cable for that purpose.

If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor (EUROCONNECTOR)

Use a 21-pin adaptor (optional) to view playback images.

b Notes

• When you output images using the A/V connecting cable, images are output with SD (standard definition) image quality.

z Tips

• If you connect your camcorder to your TV using more than one type of cable to output images, the order of priority of the output signal is as follows: HDMI t component video t S VIDEO t audio/video.

• HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is an interface to send both video/audio signals. The HDMI OUT jack outputs high quality images and digital audio.

Playback

Page 54

Editing

(OTHERS) category

This category enables you to edit the images on a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo.”

(OTHERS) category

Deleting images

You can delete the images recorded on a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” using your camcorder. Insert a recorded disc or “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder.

Deleting the movies on the disc

Item list

EDIT

You can edit the images on a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 54, 55).

PLAYLIST EDIT

You can create and edit a Playlist (p. 57).

You can print still images on a connected PictBridge printer (p. 63).

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t [EDIT].

3 Touch [ DELETE].

4 Touch [ DELETE].

5 Touch the image to be deleted.

The selected scene is marked with .

Page 55

Press and hold the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch to return to the previous screen.

6 Touch t [YES] t .

Deleting the still images in the “Memory Stick Duo”

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

To delete all movies on the disc at one time

In step 4, touch [ DELETE ALL] t [YES] t [YES] t .

b Notes

• Images cannot be restored once they are deleted.

• Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while editing images. It may damage the disc.

• You can do this operation only with DVD-RW (VR mode) for the SD (standard definition) image quality.

• If the deleted movie is included in the Playlist (p. 57), the movie is deleted also from the Playlist.

• Even if you delete unnecessary images from the disc, the remaining disc capacity may not increase as much as you can make additional recording.

• To delete all images recorded in the disc and restore the original capacity of the disc, format the disc (page 72).

z Tips

• You can select up to 100 images at one time.

• You can delete an image when viewing it using [DELETE] on (OPTION).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t [EDIT].

3 Touch [ DELETE].

Editing

4 Touch [ DELETE].

5 Touch the still image to be

deleted.

The selected still image is marked with

. Press and hold the still image on the LCD screen to confirm the still image. Touch to return to the previous screen.

Continued ,

Page 56

Deleting images (Continued)

Dividing the image

6 Touch t [YES] t .

To delete all still images on the “Memory Stick Duo”

In step 4, touch [ DELETE ALL] t [YES] t [YES] t .

b Notes

• You cannot restore still images once they are deleted.

• You cannot delete still images when a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab is set to the write-protect position (p. 128), or when the selected image is protected.

z Tips

• You can select up to 100 still images at one time.

• You can delete a still image when viewing it using [DELETE] on (OPTION).

• To delete all images recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo,” format the “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 73).

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t [EDIT].

3 Touch [DIVIDE].

4 Touch the movie to be divided.

The movie pauses.

5 Touch at the point where

you want to divide the movie into the scenes.

The movie pauses.

Returns to the beginning of the selected movie.

Adjusts the dividing point more precisely after the dividing point has been selected with .

Play and pause toggles as you press

To adjust the volume, touch

(OPTION) t [VOLUME].

6 Touch t [YES] t .

Page 57

Creating the Playlist

b Notes

• Molvies cannot be restored once they are divided.

• Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while editing images. It may damage the disc.

• You can do this operation only with DVD-RW (VR mode) for the SD (standard definition) image quality.

• Even if the divided movie is included in the Playlist, the movie is not divided in the Playlist.

• A slight difference may occur from the point where you touch and the actual dividing point, as your camcorder selects the dividing point based on about half-second increments.

A Playlist is a list showing thumbnails of the movies that you have selected. The original scenes are not changed even though you edit or delete the scenes in the Playlist.

Playlist Glossary (p. 147)

Make sure to insert the recorded disc into your camcorder.

b Notes

• You can do this operation only with DVD-RW (VR mode) for the SD (standard definition) image quality.

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t

[PLAYLIST EDIT].

3 Touch [ ADD].

Editing

4 Touch the scene to be added to

the Playlist.

The selected scene is marked with . Press and hold the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch to return to the previous screen.

Continued ,

Page 58

Creating the Playlist (Continued)

5 Touch t [YES] t .

To add all the movies on the disc in the Playlist

In step 3, touch [ ADD ALL] t [YES] t [YES] t .

b Notes

• Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while editing the Playlist. It may damage the disc.

z Tips

• You can add a maximum of 999 movies to the Playlist.

• You can add a movie when viewing it using [ ADD] on (OPTION).

Playing the Playlist

Make sure to insert the disc on which the Playlist is added into your camcorder.

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (VIEW IMAGES) t

[PLAYLIST].

3 Touch the scene from which you

want to play back.

The Playlist is played back from the selected scene to the end, then the screen returns to the Playlist screen.

Erasing unnecessary scenes from the Playlist

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t

[PLAYLIST EDIT].

3 Touch [ERASE].

4 Select the scene to be deleted

from the list.

The selected scene is marked with .

Press and hold the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image.

Touch to return to the previous screen.

5 Touch t [YES] t .

Page 59

To erase all the scenes from the Playlist

In step 3, touch [ERASE ALL] t [YES] t [YES] t .

z Tips

• The original scenes are not changed even if you erase the scenes from the Playlist.

Changing the order within the Playlist

6 Select the destination with [T]/

[t].

Destination bar

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t

[PLAYLIST EDIT].

3 Touch [MOVE].

4 Select the scene to be moved.

The selected scene is marked with .

Press and hold the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image.

Touch to return to the previous screen.

5 Touch .

Press and hold the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image.

7 Touch t [YES] t .

z Tips

• When you select multiple scenes, the scenes are moved following the order appeared in the Playlist.

Dividing a movie within the Playlist

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (OTHERS) t

[PLAYLIST EDIT].

3 Touch [DIVIDE].

4 Select the scene to be divided.

The playback of the selected scene starts.

Editing

Continued ,

Page 60

Creating the Playlist (Continued)

5 Touch at the point where

you want to divide the movie into scenes.

The movie pauses.

Play and pause toggles as you press

6 Touch t [YES] t .

b Notes

• A slight difference may occur from the point where you touch and the actual dividing point, as your camcorder selects the dividing point based on about half-second increments.

z Tips

• The original movies are not changed even if you divide the movie in the Playlist.

Page 61

Dubbing/printing

(SELECT DEVICES)

(SELECT DEVICES) category

Item list

COMPUTER

Your camcorder can be connected to your computer (p. 96).

TV CONNECT Guide

Your camcorder advises you of the most advantageous way of connecting your TV to view images on the TV (p. 48).

PRINTER

You can print still images on a connected PictBridge printer (p. 63).

Dubbing a disc

By connecting your camcorder to a VCR, DVD/HDD recorder, or a computer, you can dub a disc.

b Notes

• If you want to play back discs on the most currently available DVD devices, create discs by dubbing so that the image quality is converted to SD (standard definition).

• An image recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality cannot be converted to HD (high definition) image quality.

Quality of dubbed images by connecting other devices

When dubbing the images on the disc to another VCR or DVD/HDD recorder (p. 62).

Image quality of recorded images

HD t SD SD t SD

Quality of dubbed images by copying in a computer

“Picture Motion Browser” on the CD-ROM (supplied) must be installed on the computer (p. 98).

Image quality of recorded images

HD t HD or SD SD t SD

To copy the entire disc

Use “Disc Copier” on the CD-ROM (supplied).

Image quality of recorded images

HD t HD or SD SD t SD

HD: High definition SD: Standard definition

Image quality of dubbed images

Image quality of created discs

Dubbing/printing

Page 62

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders

You can dub images played back on your camcorder to other recording devices, such as VCRs or DVD/HDD recorders. Connect the device in either of the following ways. Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 26). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.

b Notes

• Movies recorded with HD (high definition) image quality will be dubbed with SD (standard definition) image quality.

• Since dubbing is performed via analog data transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.

• To copy a disc recorded with HD (high definition) image quality, install the application software (supplied) on your computer (p. 98), and copy the images to a disc in the computer.

A/V OUT jack

S VIDEO

: Video/Signal flow

A A/V connecting cable (supplied)

Connect to the input jack of the other device.

B A/V connecting cable with S

VIDEO (optional)

When connecting to another device via the S VIDEO jack, by using an A/V connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable (optional), higher quality images can be produced than with an A/V connecting cable. Connect the white and red plug (left/right audio) and the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of the A/V connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable (optional). The yellow plug connection is not necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not output audio.

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

VIDEO

AUDIO

b Notes

• You cannot dub to recorders connected with an HDMI cable.

• To hide the screen indicators (such as a counter, etc.) on the screen of the monitor device connected, set (SETTINGS) t [OUTPUT SETTINGS] t [DISP OUTPUT] t [LCD PANEL] (the default setting) on the HOME MENU (p. 86).

• To record the date/time and camera settings data, display them on the screen (p. 84).

• When you are connecting your camcorder to a monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack, and the red (right channel) or the white (left channel) plug to the audio input jack on the device.

(Yellow) (White) (Red)

VIDEO

VCRs or DVD/ HDD recorders

AUDIO

Page 63

1 Insert the recorded disc into your

camcorder.

2 Turn on your camcorder, and

press (VIEW IMAGES).

Set [TV TYPE] according to the display device (p. 86).

3 Insert the recording media in the

recording device.

If your recording device has an input selector, set it to the input mode.

Printing recorded images

compliant printer)

You can print out still images using a PictBridge compliant printer, without connecting the camcorder to a computer.

Connect your camcorder to the AC Adaptor to obtain power from the wall socket (p. 26). Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” containing still images into your camcorder and turn on the printer.

Connecting your camcorder to the printer

(PictBridge

4 Connect your camcorder to the

recording device (VCR or DVD/ HDD recorder) with the A/V connecting cable (supplied) 1 or an A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional) 2.

Connect your camcorder to the input jacks of the recording device.

5 Start the playback on your

camcorder, and record it on the recording device.

Refer to the instruction manuals supplied with your recording device for details.

6 When dubbing is finished, stop

the recording device, and then your camcorder.

1 Turn on your camcorder.

2 Connect the (USB) jack of your

camcorder to the printer using the USB cable (p. 140).

[USB SELECT] appears on the screen automatically.

3 Touch [ PRINT].

When connection is complete, (PictBridge connecting) appears on the screen.

One of the still images stored on the “Memory Stick Duo” will be displayed.

b Notes

• We can guarantee the operation of only models that are PictBridge compatible.

Continued ,

Dubbing/printing

Page 64

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) (Continued)

Printing

1 Touch the still image to be

printed.

The selected image is marked with .

Press and hold the image on the LCD screen to confirm the image.

Touch to return to the previous screen.

2 Touch (OPTION), set the

following options, then touch

[COPIES]: Set number of copies of a still image to be printed. You can set up to 20 copies.

[DATE/TIME]: Select [DATE], [DAY&TIME], or [OFF] (no date/time printed).

[SIZE]: Select the paper size.

If you do not change the setting, go to step 3.

3 Touch [EXEC] t [YES] t .

The image selection screen appears again.

b Notes

• Refer also to the instruction manual of the

printer to be used.

• Do not attempt the following operations when

is on the screen. The operations may not be

performed properly. – To operate the POWER switch. – To press (VIEW IMAGES) – To disconnect the USB cable from the printer. – To remove the “Memory Stick Duo” from

your camcorder

• If the printer stops working, disconnect the USB

cable, turn the printer off and on again, and restart the operation from the beginning.

• You can select only the paper sizes that the

printer can print.

• On some printer models, the top, bottom, right,

and left edges of images may be trimmed. If you print a still image recorded in a 16:9 (wide) ratio, the left and right ends of the image may be trimmed widely.

• Some printer models may not support the date

printing function. Refer to your printer’s instruction manual for details.

• We cannot guarantee the printing of images

recorded with a device other than your camcorder.

• You cannot print still images that have a file

size larger than 2 MB or 2304 × 1728 pixels, recorded by other devices.

z Tips

• PictBridge is an industry standard established

by the Camera & Imaging Products Association (CIPA). You can print still images without using a computer by connecting a printer directly to a digital video camera or digital still camera, regardless of model or manufacturer.

• You can print a still image when viewing it

using [PRINT] on (OPTION).

To finish printing

Touch on the image selection screen.

Page 65

Utilizing recording media

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY) category

This category enables you to use a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” for various purposes.

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY)

Making the disc compatible with playback on other devices or DVD drives (Finalizing)

Finalizing makes the recorded disc compatible for playback with other devices and DVD drives of computers. During finalizing, you can select the disc menu type to view disc contents (p. 68).

b Notes

• Playback compatibility with all device is not guaranteed.

• Only the devices compatible with the AVCHD format can play the discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality (p. 70). Currently available DVD devices cannot play these discs.

Discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality

Discs of all kinds should be finalized.

Discs recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality

• Finalize DVD-R/DVD+R DL/DVD-RW.

• Finalize DVD+RW in the following cases:

– To create the DVD menu – To playback in the DVD drives of computers – Recorded time is short (5 minutes or less in HQ mode, 8 minutes or less in SP mode and 15

minutes or less in LP mode)

b Notes

• In the case of SD (standard definition) image quality, a DVD menu is created instead of a disc menu.

• No DVD menu is created for DVD-RW (VR mode).

Page 67

Operation flow

The following operations are for the discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality.

To play back a disc on another device for the first time (p.68)

Playback on other device

AVCHD-compatible device

Finalize

Computer

Make desired settings. BDisc menu

To add recordings to a finalized disc (p. 74)

Recordings cannot be added.

If a disc menu has been created, a confirmation screen prompts you to confirm that you wish to add a recording.

Make a new recording

Continued ,

Utilizing recording media

Page 68

Making the disc compatible with playback on other devices or DVD drives (Finalizing) (Continued)

To play back a disc on another device after adding a recording (p.68)

Playback on other device

AVCHD-compatible device

Finalize

Computer

Make desired settings. BDisc menu

Finalizing a disc

b Notes

• It takes from a minute to a maximum of several hours to finalize a disc. The shorter the amount of material recorded on the disc, the longer it takes for finalizing.

• Use the AC Adaptor as the power source to prevent your camcorder from running out of power during finalizing.

• When you finalize a double-sided disc, you must finalize each side of the disc individually.

1 Place your camcorder in a stable

position, and connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.

2 Turn on the power by sliding the

POWER switch.

3 Insert the disc to be finalized.

4 Press (HOME).

5 Touch (MANAGE DISC/

MEMORY) t [FINALIZE].

To select a disc menu style, touch

(OPTION) t [DISC MENU]

(p. 69).

Go to step 6 if you want to finalize the disc using [STYLE1] (default setting).

Disc menu Glossary (p. 146)

6 Touch [YES] t [YES].

Finalizing starts.

Page 69

7 When [Completed.] appears,

touch .

b Notes

• Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder, and do not disconnect the AC Adaptor during finalizing. When you need to disconnect the AC Adaptor, make sure that the power of your camcorder is set to off and disconnect the AC Adaptor after the (Movie) or (Still) lamp goes off. Finalizing restarts when you connect the AC Adaptor and turn on your camcorder again. You cannot remove the disc until the finalizing operation is completed.

• When using the following discs, Z flashes after finalizing is completed on the recording standby screen of your camcorder. Remove the disc from your camcorder.

– Discs recorded with HD (high definition)

image quality

– Discs recorded with SD (standard definition)

image quality, except DVD-RW (VR mode)

z Tips

• When you set to create a disc menu (or DVD menu) and finalize the disc, the disc menu appears for a few seconds while finalizing the disc.

• After the disc is finalized, the disc type/ recording format indicator changes as shown below:

To select a disc menu style

1 In step 4, touch (OPTION) t

[DISC MENU].

2 Select the desired style from 4 types of

pattern with [T]/[t].

Select [NO MENU] if you do not create a disc menu.

3 Touch .

b Notes

• You cannot do this operation with DVD-RW (VR mode) for the SD (standard definition) image quality.

Utilizing recording media

DVD-R

DVD+R DL

DVD+RW

DVD-RW (HD (high definition) image quality)

DVD-RW (SD (standard definition) image quality) (VIDEO mode)

DVD-RW (SD (standard definition) image quality) (VR mode)

Page 70

Playing a disc on other devices

The kind of device you can play a disc on depends on the image quality (HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition)) selected when the disc was recorded. For details, refer to the instruction manual supplied with your device.

Discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality

You can play back these discs only on devices compatible with the AVCHD format. Since DVD players and DVD recorders are incompatible with the AVCHD format, they cannot play discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality. Also, if you insert an HD (high definition) image quality disc recorded in the AVCHD format in these devices, you may not be able to eject the disc. If you have inserted a disc recorded in the AVCHD format in a DVD device, there is a risk that you can neither record nor play back the disc correctly on your camcorder.

Discs recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality

You can play these discs back on DVD devices. However, we do not guarantee playback on all DVD devices.

b Notes

• Do not use an 8 cm CD adaptor with an 8 cm DVD as it may cause a malfunction.

• Make sure that a vertically installed device is placed in a position such as that the disc can be placed horizontally.

• Refer to the instruction manual supplied with your device or consult your dealer.

• Some discs cannot be played back, may freeze for an instant between scenes. Some functions may be disabled on some devices.

z Tips

• Devices that support subtitles can display the recording date and time where the subtitles normally appear (p. 80). Refer to the instruction manual of your device.

• If you have created a disc menu (p. 68), you can select the desired scene in the menu.

• You can also play the playlist back on other devices if the discs were recorded with HD (high definition) image quality (p. 57). Create the playlist on your camcorder in advance, then select on the disc menu.

Playing a disc on a computer

b Notes

• Make sure that the DVD drive of the computer can play an 8 cm DVD.

• Do not use an 8 cm CD adaptor with an 8 cm DVD as it may cause a malfunction.

• You must finalize the disc (p. 66). Otherwise, a malfunction may occur.

To play a disc recorded with HD (high definition) image quality

Install “Picture Motion Browser” on the supplied CD-ROM on the computer to play movies (p. 98).

z Tips

• For details on operations and procedures, see the “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 101).

To play a disc recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality

You can play a disc on a computer if a DVD playback application is installed on the computer.

1 Insert the finalized disc into the DVD

drive of your computer.

2 Play back the disc using a DVD

playback application.

Page 71

b Notes

• The disc may not be played back, or the movies may not be played smoothly on some computers.

• You cannot play back or edit movies that have been copied from the disc to the hard disk of your computer directly. For details on how to import movies, refer to the “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM.

Finding the right disc

- DISC SELECT GUIDE

Select the option that is right for you on the screen, then you will be informed of the appropriate disc for your purposes.

1 Turn on your camcorder, and

press (HOME).

The volume label of the disc recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality

The date when the disc was first used is recorded.

<e.g.> When the disc was first used at 6:00 pm on

January 1st 2006: 2006_01_01_06H00M_PM

Volu me label

z Tips

• Images in discs recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality are stored in the following folders:

– DVD-RW (VR mode)

DVD_RTAV folder

– Other discs and modes

VIDEO_TS folder

2 Touch (MANAGE DISC/

MEMORY).

3 Touch [DISC SELECT GUIDE].

4 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

When you answer all the questions, you will be informed of the right disc for you.

When you insert the same type of disc as that indicated in the results of the guide, the disc is formatted with the options you selected.

z Tips

• You can refer to “Selecting the right disc” in the supplied “Read This First,” as well.

Utilizing recording media

Page 72

Deleting all scenes on the disc (Formatting)

Formatting the disc

Formatting makes the recorded disc new and reusable by deleting all the data recorded on the disc. The recording capacity of the disc is recovered by formatting it.

A DVD-R/DVD+R DL cannot be formatted. Replace it with a new disc.

If you format a finalized disc

Formatting deletes all images on a finalized disc. One of the following icons, or

, appears on the screen, but there is no need to finalize the disc again before playing the disc on an AVCHD format compatible player.*

When formatting a disc of the SD (standard definition) image quality

• In the case of a DVD-RW (VIDEO

mode), the disc is unfinalized and it has to be finalized again to enable the disc to be played on another device.

• In the case of a DVD-RW (VR mode)/

DVD+RW, formatting deletes all images on a finalized disc. One of the following icons, or , appears on the screen, but there is no need to finalize the disc again before playing the disc on other devices.*

* To create a disc menu (DVD menu) on a

DVD+RW, finalize the disc again (p. 66).

1 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack on your camcorder, then connect the mains lead to the wall socket.

2 Turn on your camcorder.

3 Insert the disc to be formatted

into your camcorder.

4 Press (HOME).

5 Touch (MANAGE DISC/

MEMORY) t [FORMAT].

b Notes

• The screen message will be different if the disc was formatted with SD (standard definition) image quality at the previous formatting. Follow the procedures on the screen.

6 Touch [YES].

To record with SD (standard definition) image quality, touch [SD].

b Notes

• You cannot change the recording format of a disc midway.

• For details on AVCHD format/DVD format, see page 14.

7 Touch the option that is right for

you on the screen.

The disc will be formatted in the recording image quality and mode you selected.

Page 73

When the disc is formatted, you can start recording on the disc.

To format a disc with SD (standard definition) image quality

• Select the recording format, VIDEO mode or VR mode, for DVD-RW (p. 17).

• Select the aspect ratio, [16:9 WIDE] or [4:3], for DVD+RW.

b Notes

• Use the AC Adaptor as the power source to prevent your camcorder from running out of power during formatting.

• Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder, and do not disconnect the AC Adaptor during formatting.

• When you use a double-sided disc, formatting is required on each side. You can format each side in the different recording image quality and mode.

• In the case of DVD+RW with SD (standard definition), you cannot change the movie aspect ratio midway. Format the disc again to change the aspect ratio.

• You cannot format a disc that has been protected on other devices. Cancel the protection with the original device, and then format it.

Formatting the “Memory Stick Duo”

Formatting deletes all images on a “Memory Stick Duo.”

4 Touch (MANAGE DISC/

MEMORY) t [ FORMAT].

5 Touch [YES] t [YES].

6 When [Completed.] appears,

touch .

b Notes

• Even the still images protected with another device against accidental deletion are also deleted.

• Do not attempt the following operations when [Executing...] is on the screen:

– To operate the POWER switch or buttons – To remove the “Memory Stick Duo”

Utilizing recording media

1 Turn on your camcorder.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” to

be formatted into your camcorder.

3 Press (HOME).

Page 74

Recording additional scenes after finalizing (Unfinalize)

4 Touch [YES] t [YES].

You can record additional material on the finalized DVD-RWs/DVD+RWs after the following steps, if there is space to record on the disc.

b Notes

• Use the AC Adaptor as power source to prevent your camcorder from running out of power during the operation.

• Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder, and do not disconnect the AC Adaptor during the operation.

• A disc menu created during finalizing are deleted.

• When you use a double-sided disc, unfinalize each side.

1 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack on your camcorder, then connect the mains lead to the wall socket.

2 Slide the POWER switch to turn

on the (Movie) lamp.

5 When [Completed.] appears,

touch .

For the discs recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality

• When using the finalized DVD-RW (VR mode) disc, you can record additional material on the disc without any additional steps.

• To unfinalize the DVD-RW (VIDEO mode), perform (MANAGE DISC/ MEMORY) t [UNFINALIZE] in the HOME MENU.

• If you have created a DVD menu (p. 68) when finalizing the DVD+RW, a dialog appears to confirm that you wish to record additional scenes when you slide the POWER switch to turn on the

(Movie) lamp.

b Notes

• You cannot unfinalize and record additional scenes on the DVD-R/DVD+R DL.

3 Insert the finalized disc into your

camcorder.

A confirmation screen appears to prompt you to confirm that you wish to record additional scenes.

Page 75

Checking the disc information

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

2 Touch (MANAGE DISC/

MEMORY) t [DISC INFO].

If the item is not on the screen, touch

/ to change the page.

Following information is displayed.

• Media type

• Recording format

• Disc title

• Date and time of the first use of the disc

• Recorded area

To turn off the display

Touch .

z Tips

• Image ratio is also displayed for DVD+RW with SD (standard definition) image quality.

Utilizing recording media

Page 76

Customizing your camcorder

What you can do with the (SETTINGS) category of the HOME MENU

You can change the recording functions and the operating settings for your convenience.

Using the HOME MENU

1 Turn on your camcorder, then

press (HOME).

(HOME)

3 Touch the desired setup item.

If the item is not on the screen, touch v/ V to change the page.

4 Touch the desired item.

If the item is not on the screen, touch v/ V to change the page.

(SETTINGS) category

2 Touch (SETTINGS).

5 Change the setting, then touch

Page 77

List of the (SETTINGS) category items

MOVIE SETTINGS (p. 78)

Items Page

HD REC MODE SD REC MODE AE SHIFT WB SHIFT NS LIGHT WIDE SELECT DIGITAL ZOOM STEADYSHOT EXP.FOCUS GUIDEFRAME ZEBRA

REMAINING SUB-T DATE RING SETTING

PHOTO SETTINGS (p. 81)

Items Page

IMAGE SIZE

QUALITY FILE NO. AE SHIFT WB SHIFT NS LIGHT EXP.FOCUS GUIDEFRAME ZEBRA FLASH LEVEL REDEYE REDUC RING SETTING

VIEW IMAGES SET (p. 84)

Items Page

VOLUME DATA CODE

SOUND/DISP SET (p. 85)

Items Page

BEEP LCD BRIGHT LCD BL LEVEL LCD COLOR VF B.LIGHT

OUTPUT SETTINGS (p. 86)

Items Page

TV TYPE DISP OUTPUT COMPONENT

CLOCK/ LANG (p. 87)

Items Page

CLOCK SET AREA SET SUMMERTIME

LANGUAGE SET

GENERAL SET (p. 87)

Items Page

DEMO MODE REC LAMP CALIBRATION A.SHUT OFF REMOTE CTRL

132

Customizing your camcorder

Page 78

MOVIE SETTINGS

(Items for recording movies)

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

HD REC MODE

You can select a recording mode to record a movie with HD (high definition) image quality from 4 levels.

HD HQ+

Records in the highest quality mode. (AVC HD 12M (HQ+))

HD HQ

Records in high quality mode. (AVC HD 9M (HQ))

B HD SP

Records in standard quality mode. (AVC HD 7M (SP))

HD LP

Increases the recording time (Long Play). (AVC HD 5M (LP))

b Notes

• If you record in the LP mode, details in scenes with quick movements may appear rough when you play the disc back.

z Tips

• See page 15 on the expected recording time of each recording mode.

SD REC MODE

You can select a recording mode to record a movie with SD (standard definition) image quality from 3 levels.

SD HQ

Records in high quality mode. (SD 9M (HQ)).

B SD SP

Records in standard quality mode. (SD 6M (SP)).

SD LP

Increases the recording time (Long Play). (SD 3M (LP))

b Notes

• If you record in the LP mode, the quality of scenes may be degraded, or scenes with quick movements may appear with a block noise when you play back the disc.

z Tips

• See page 15 on the expected recording time of each recording mode.

AE SHIFT

Select [ON] to adjust the exposure using

(dark)/ (bright). and the setting value appear when [AE SHIFT] is anything other than the default setting.

z Tips

• Touch if the subject is white or the

backlight is bright, or touch if the subject is black or the light is dim.

• You can adjust the automatic exposure level to

brighter or darker when [EXPOSURE] is set to [AUTO].

• You can also adjust the setting manually using

the camera control ring (p. 42).

WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift)

Select [ON] to adjust the white balance to the desired setting using / .

Page 79

and the setting value appear when [WB SHIFT] is anything other than the default setting.

z Tips

• When the white balance is set to a lower value,

images appear bluish, and when set to a higher value, images appear reddish.

• You can also adjust the setting manually using

the camera control ring (p. 42).

NS LIGHT (NightShot Light)

When using either the NightShot (p. 41) or [SUPER NS] (p. 93) function to record, you can record clearer images by setting [NS LIGHT], which emits infrared light (invisible), to [ON] (the default setting).

b Notes

• Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers

or other objects (p. 41).

• Remove the conversion lens (optional).

• The maximum shooting distance using [NS

LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).

WIDE SELECT

When recording with SD (standard definition) image quality, you can select the aspect ratio according to the TV connected. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV.

B 16:9 WIDE

Records images to the full screen on a 16:9 (wide) TV screen.

4:3 ( )

Records images to the full screen on a 4:3 TV screen.

b Notes

• Set [TV TYPE] correctly according to the TV

connected for playback (p. 86).

• You cannot change the aspect ratio on a

DVD+RW midway.

DIGITAL ZOOM

You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 10 × (the default setting) during recording. Note that the image quality decreases when you use the digital zoom.

The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming factor. The zooming zone appears when you select the zooming level.

B OFF

Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically.

20 ×

Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 20 × zoom is performed digitally.

80 ×

Up to 10 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 80 × zoom is performed digitally.

STEADYSHOT

You can compensate for camera shake (the default setting is [ON]). Set [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (optional), then the image becomes natural.

EXP.FOCUS (Expanded focus)

Select [ON] so that the image on the screen is magnified by about 2 times when adjusting focus manually (p. 90). The screen returns to the original size automatically when the focusing is finished. Touch [OFF] to release this function.

Customizing your camcorder

Continued ,

Page 80

MOVIE SETTINGS (Continued)

b Notes

• You cannot activate this function during recording.

• The function is released if you use the zoom function.

GUIDEFRAME

You can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical by setting [GUIDEFRAME] to [ON]. The frame is not recorded. Press DISP/ BATT INFO to make the frame disappear.

z Tips

• Positioning the subject at the cross point of the guide frame makes a balanced composition.

ZEBRA

Diagonal stripes appear in portions of the screen where brightness is at a preset level. This is useful as a guide when adjusting the brightness. When you change the default setting, is displayed. The zebra pattern is not recorded.

B OFF

The zebra pattern is not displayed.

The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 70 IRE.

100

The zebra pattern appears at a screen brightness level of about 100 IRE or higher.

b Notes

• Portions of the screen where brightness is about 100 IRE or above may appear overexposed.

z Tips

• IRE represents the screen brightness.

REMAINING

B AUTO

Displays the remaining disc indicator for about 8 seconds in situations such as those described below.

– When your camcorder recognizes the

remaining disc capacity with the POWER switch set to (Movie).

– When you press DISP/BATT INFO to

switch the indicator from off to on with the POWER switch set to (Movie).

– When you select the movie recording

mode on the HOME MENU.

Always displays the remaining disc indicator.

b Notes

• When the remaining recordable time for movies is less than 5 minutes, the indicator stays on the screen.

SUB-T DATE

Select [ON] (the default setting) to display the recording date and time when you play back a disc on a device with a subtitle display function. Also refer to the instruction manual of the playback device.

b Notes

• Discs recorded with HD (high definition) image quality can be played on AVCHD format compatible devices only (p. 70).

RING SETTING

You can assign an item you want to set to the camera control ring and adjust it manually using the camera control ring.

B FOCUS

Assigns [FOCUS] (p. 90) to the camera control ring.

EXPOSURE

Assigns [EXPOSURE] (p. 91) to the camera control ring.

Page 81

AE SHIFT

Assigns [AE SHIFT] (p. 78) to the camera control ring.

WB SHIFT

Assigns [WB SHIFT] (p. 78) to the camera control ring.

z Tips

• You can make this setting also by keeping MANUAL pressed.

• See page 42 on further details on the camera control ring.

• Manual settings will be retained even if you change the assigned item of the camera control ring. However, if you set [EXPOSURE] after setting [AE SHIFT] manually, [EXPOSURE] will override [AE SHIFT].

PHOTO SETTINGS

(Items for recording still images)

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

IMAGE SIZE

B 4.0M ( )

b Notes

• [ IMAGE SIZE] can be set only during

4.0M

Records still images clearly.

3.0M ( )

Records still images clearly in the 16:9 (wide) ratio.

3.0M

1.9M ( )

Allows you to record more still images in relatively clear quality.

VGA (0.3M) ( )

Allows the maximum number of still images to be recorded.

recording standby.

Customizing your camcorder

Continued ,

Page 82

PHOTO SETTINGS (Continued)

Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo” (MB) and the number of recordable images

When the POWER switch is (Still)

4.0M

3.0M 2304 × 1296

1.9M 1600 × 1200

10 24

20 48

41 9865150

2304 × 1728

4.0M 3.0M

16MB 7

32MB 15

64MB 31

128MB 63

15083195

256MB 110

512MB 230

1GB 475

1100

2GB 970

2300

270

550

150 355

305 720

620

1450

1250 3000

When the POWER switch is (Movie)*

2.3M 2016 × 1134

16MB 13

32MB 27

64MB 54

130

128MB 105

260

256MB 195

470

512MB 400

960

VGA 640 × 480

163796

3275190

130 300

1970

235

1400

540

3550

480

2850

1100

7200

980

5900

2250

14500

2000

12000

4650

30000

1.7M 1512 × 1134

1.7M

17 40

36 85

170

145 340

260 590

530

1200

240

485

390 980

780

2.3M 2016 × 1134

1GB 820

1950

2GB 1650

4000

* The image size is fixed as follows depending on

the recording image quality: – [ 2.3M] with HD (high definition) image

quality

– [ 2.3M] in the aspect ratio 16:9 with SD

(standard definition) image quality

– [1.7M] in the aspect ratio 4:3 with SD

(standard definition) image quality

1.7M 1512 × 1134

1.7M

1050 2450

1800 4300

b Notes

• All numbers measured at the following setting: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality.

• All numbers measured when using a “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable images varies depending on the recording environment.

Approximate data size of an image (kB)

4:3 image

4.0M 1.9M 1.7M VGA

1980

830

16:9 image

3.0M 2.3M

1500

640

• Data sizes measured at the following settings: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality.

960 420

1150

480

860 370

150

Page 83

QUALITY

B FINE ( )

Records still images at the fine image quality level.

STANDARD ( )

Records still images at the standard image quality level.

FILE NO.

B SERIES

Assigns file numbers in sequence even if the “Memory Stick Duo” is replaced with another one. The file number is reset when a new folder is created or the recording folder is replaced with another.

RESET

Resets the file number to 0001 each time the “Memory Stick Duo” is changed.

AE SHIFT

See page 78.

WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift)

See page 78.

NS LIGHT (NightShot Light)

See page 79.

EXP.FOCUS

See page 79.

GUIDEFRAME

See page 80.

FLASH LEVEL

You can set this function when you use the built-in flash, or an external flash (optional) that is compatible with your camcorder.

HIGH( )

Makes the flash level higher.

B NORMAL( )

LOW( )

Makes the flash level lower.

REDEYE REDUC

You can set this function when you use the built-in flash, or an external flash (optional) that is compatible with your camcorder. You can prevent redeye by activating the flash before recording. Set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then press

(flash) (p. 40) repeatedly to select a

setting.

(Auto redeye reduction): Pre-flashes to reduce redeye before the flash automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light.

(Forced redeye reduction): Always uses the flash and the redeye reducing preflash.

(No flash): Records without flash.

• The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other conditions.

RING SETTING

See page 80.

Customizing your camcorder

ZEBRA

See page 80.

Page 84

VIEW IMAGES SET

(Items to customize the sound volume and display)

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

CAMERA DATA

Movie

Still image

VOLUME

Touch / to adjust the volume (p. 45).

DATA CODE

During playback, displays the information (data code) recorded automatically at the time of recording.

B OFF

Data code is not displayed.

DATE/TIME

Displays the date and time.

CAMERA DATA (below)

Displays camera setting data.

DATE/TIME

ADate BTime

CSteadyShot off DBrightness EWhite balance FGain GShutter speed HAperture value IExposure

z Tips

• appears for an image recorded using a flash.

• The data code is displayed on the TV screen if

you connect your camcorder to a TV.

• The indicator toggles through the following

sequences as you press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander: [DATE/TIME] t [CAMERA DATA] t [OFF] (no indication).

• Depending on the disc condition, bars [--:--:--]

appear.

Page 85

SOUND/DISP SET

(Items to adjust beep and the screen)

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

BEEP

B ON

A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel.

OFF

Cancels the melody.

b Notes

• When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting.

• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording.

• If you open the LCD panel 180 degrees to face the screen outside and close the LCD panel to the camcorder body, the setting becomes [NORMAL] automatically.

z Tips

• This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way.

LCD COLOR

You can adjust the color of the LCD screen with / .

Low intensity High intensity

z Tips

• This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way.

LCD BRIGHT

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

1 Adjust the brightness with / . 2 Touch .

z Tips

• This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way.

LCD BL LEVEL

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen’s backlight.

B NORMAL

Standard brightness.

BRIGHT

Brightens the LCD screen.

VF B.LIGHT

You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder.

B NORMAL

Standard brightness.

BRIGHT

Brightens the viewfinder screen.

b Notes

• When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting.

• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording.

z Tips

• This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way.

Customizing your camcorder

Page 86

OUTPUT SETTINGS

(Items for when connecting other devices)

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

DISP OUTPUT

B LCD PANEL

Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen and in the viewfinder.

V-OUT/PANEL

Shows displays such as the time code on the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the viewfinder.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

TV TYPE

You need to convert the signal depending on the TV connected when playing back the image. The recorded images are played back as following illustrations.

B 16:9

Select to view your images on a 16:9 (wide) TV.

Wide (16:9) images

4:3

Select to view your images on a 4:3 standard TV.

Wide (16:9) images

4:3 images

COMPONENT

Select [COMPONENT] when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack.

576i

Select when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack.

B 1080i/576i

Select when connecting your camcorder to a TV that has the component input jack and is capable of displaying the 1080i signal.

b Notes

• Aspect ratio of the image recorded with HD (high definition) image quality is 16:9.

Page 87

CLOCK/ LANG

(Items to set clock and language)

GENERAL SET

(Other setup items)

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

CLOCK SET

See page 31.

AREA SET

You can adjust a time difference without stopping the clock. Set your local area using v/V when using your camcorder overseas. Refer to the world time difference on page

124.

SUMMERTIME

You can change this setting without stopping the clock. Set to [ON] to move the time forward 1hour.

LANGUAGE SET

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

z Tips

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

Touch 1, then 2. If the item is not on the screen, touch v/V to change the page.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

DEMO MODE

The default setting is [ON], allowing you to view the demonstration in about 10 minutes, after you slide the POWER switch to (Movie).

• The demonstration will be suspended in situations such as those described below.

– When you touch the screen during the

demonstration (The demonstration starts

again after about 10 minutes). – When you slide the disc cover open switch. – When you remove or insert a “Memory Stick

Duo.” – When you set the POWER switch to

(Still). – When you press (HOME)/ (VIEW

IMAGES).

REC LAMP (Recording lamp)

The camera recording lamp will not light up during recording when you set this to [OFF]. (The default setting is [ON].)

CALIBRATION

See page 132.

Customizing your camcorder

Continued ,

Page 88

GENERAL SET (Continued)

A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)

B 5 min

The camcorder is automatically turned off when you do not operate your camcorder for more than approximately 5 minutes.

NEVER

The camcorder is not automatically turned off.

• When you connect your camcorder to a wall socket, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to [NEVER].

REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)

The default setting is [ON], allowing you to use the supplied Remote Commander (p. 142).

• Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another VCR remote control unit.

Activating functions using the OPTION MENU

The OPTION MENU appears just like the pop-up window that appears when you right-click the mouse on a computer. Various functions are displayed in the context of the operation.

Using the OPTION MENU

b Notes

• The tabs and items that appear on the screen depend on the recording/playback status of your camcorder at the time.

• Some items appear without a tab.

1 While using your camcorder,

touch (OPTION) on the screen.

(OPTION)

Tab

2 Touch the desired item.

If you cannot find the desired item, touch another tab to change the page.

Page 89

3 Change the setting, then touch

When the item you want is not on the screen

Touch another tab. If you cannot find the item anywhere, the function does not work under the situation.

Recording items on the OPTION MENU

See page 88 for setting operation.

Items * Page

tab FOCUS SPOT FOCUS EXP.FOCUS TELE MACRO EXPOSURE SPOT METER AE SHIFT PROGRAM AE WHITE BAL. WB SHIFT COLOR SLOW S SUPER NS

tab FADER D.EFFECT PICT.EFFECT

-90

a 79

-90

-91

a 78

-91

-92

a 78

-92

-93

-94

tab HD REC MODE SD REC MODE MICREF LEVEL GUIDEFRAME ZEBRA FLASH LEVEL REDEYE REDUC

IMAGE SIZE

QUALITY SELF-TIMER TIMING

* Items that are included also in the HOME

MENU.

a 78

-94

a 80

a 83

a 81

a 83

-94

-42

Continued ,

Customizing your camcorder

Page 90

Recording items on the OPTION MENU (Continued)

Items you can set only on the OPTION MENU will be described below.

How to set

(HOME MENU) t page 76

(OPTION MENU) t page 88

The default settings are marked with B.

FOCUS

You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus on a certain subject intentionally.

1 Touch [MANUAL].

9 appears.

2 Touch (focusing on close subjects)/

(focusing on distant subjects) to sharpen the focus. appears when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and appears when the focus cannot be adjusted farther away.

3 Touch .

To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] t in step 1.

• It is easier to focus on the subject by moving the power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to adjust the focus, then towards W (wide angle) to adjust the zoom for recording. When you want to record a subject at close range, move the power zoom lever to W (wide angle), then adjust the focus.

• The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

• You can also adjust the focus manually using the camera control ring (p. 42).

SPOT FOCUS

You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located at the center of the screen.

1 Touch the subject on the screen.

9 appears.

2 Touch [END].

To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO] t [END] in step 1.

• If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

TELE MACRO

This is useful to shoot small subjects, such as flowers or insects. You can blur out backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer. When you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON] ( ), the zoom (p. 39) moves to the top of the T (telephoto) side automatically and allows recording subjects at a close distance, down to about 37 cm (14 5/8 in.).

To cancel, touch [OFF], or zoom to wideangle (W side).

• When recording a distant subject, focusing may be difficult and can take some time.

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 90) when it is hard to focus automatically.

Page 91

EXPOSURE

You can fix the brightness of an image manually. When recording indoors on a clear day, for instance, you can avoid backlight shadows on people next to the window by fixing the exposure to that of the wall side of the room.

1 Touch [MANUAL].

appears.

2 Adjust the exposure by touching /

3 Touch .

To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] t in step 1.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

• You can also adjust the setting manually using the camera control ring (p. 42).

SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)

You can adjust and fix the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded in suitable brightness even when there is strong contrast between the subject and the background, such as subjects in the spotlight on stage.

1 Touch the point where you want to fix and

adjust the exposure on the screen.

appears.

2 Touch [END].

To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO] t [END] in step 1.

• If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

PROGRAM AE

You can record images effectively in various situations with the [PROGRAM AE] function.

B AUTO

Select this to automatically record images effectively without the [PROGRAM AE] function.

SPOTLIGHT*( )

Select this to prevent people’s faces from appearing excessively white when subjects are lit by strong light.

PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( )

Select this to bring out the subject such as people or flowers while creating a soft background.

BEACH&SKI*( )

Select this to prevent people’s faces from appearing dark in strong light or reflected light, such as at a beach in midsummer or on a ski slope.

SUNSET&MOON**( )

Continued ,

Customizing your camcorder

Page 92

Recording items on the OPTION MENU (Continued)

Select this to maintain the atmosphere of situations such as sunsets, general night views or fireworks.

LANDSCAPE**( )

Select this to shoot distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows that comes in between the camcorder and the subject.

• Items with one asterisk (*) are adjusted to focus

on subjects only a short distance away. Items with two asterisks (**) are adjusted to focus on subjects farther away.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

WHITE BAL. (White balance)

You can adjust the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.

B AUTO

The white balance is adjusted automatically.

OUTDOOR ( )

The white balance is adjusted to be appropriate for the following recording conditions:

– Outdoors – Night views, neon signs and fireworks – Sunrise or sunset – Under daylight fluorescent lamps

INDOOR (n)

The white balance is adjusted to be appropriate for the following recording conditions:

– Indoors – At party scenes or studios where the lighting

conditions change quickly

– Under video lamps in a studio, or under

sodium lamps or incandescent-like color lamps

ONE PUSH ( )

The white balance will be adjusted according to the ambient light.

1 Touch [ONE PUSH]. 2 Frame a white object such as a piece of

paper, to fill the screen under the same lighting conditions as you will shoot the subject.

3 Touch [ ].

flashes quickly. When the white balance has been adjusted and stored in the memory, the indicator stops flashing.

•Do not shake your camcorder while

is flashing quickly.

• flashes slowly if white balance

could not be set.

•If keeps flashing even after you

have touched , set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO].

• If you changed the battery pack, or moved your camcorder to or from outdoors when [AUTO] was selected, aim your camcorder at a nearby white object with [AUTO] for about 10 seconds for better color balance adjustment.

• Redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure if you change the [PROGRAM AE] settings, or bring your camcorder outdoors from inside the house, or vice versa.

• Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or adjust the color in [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps.

• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

COLOR SLOW S (Color Slow Shutter)

When you set [COLOR SLOW S] to [ON], you can record an image brighter in color even in dark places.

appears on the screen.

To cancel [COLOR SLOW S], touch [OFF].

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 90) when it is hard to focus automatically.

Page 93

• The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness, which may result in a slowdown of the motion of the image.

WHITE FADER

SUPER NS (Super NightShot)

The image will be recorded at a maximum of 16 times the sensitivity of NightShot recording if you set [SUPER NS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 41) is also set to ON.

appears on the screen.

To return to the normal setting, set [SUPER NS] to [OFF].

• Do not use [SUPER NS] in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.

• Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects (p. 41).

• Remove the conversion lens (optional).

• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 90) when it is hard to focus automatically.

• The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness, which may result in a slowdown of the motion of the image.

FADER

You can record a transition with the following effects adding to the interval between scenes.

1 Select the desired effect in [STBY] (during

fading in) or [REC] (during fading out) mode, then touch .

2 Press START/STOP.

The fader indicator stops flashing and disappears when the fade is complete.

To cancel the fader before starting the operation, touch [OFF] in step 1. If you press START/STOP, the setting is canceled.

BLACK FADER

D. EFFECT (Digital effect)

You can add digital effects to your recordings. appears.

1 Touch the desired effect. 2 When you select [LUMI. KEY], adjust

the effect with

The image displayed when you touch is saved as a still image.

3 Touch .

appears.

To cancel [D. EFFECT], touch [OFF] in step

LUMI. KEY (luminance key)

Replaces a brighter area in a previously recorded still image (e.g. a person) with a movie.

OLD MOVIE

Adds an old movie effect to images. The scene is recorded in the 16:9 (wide) mode.

• The aspect ratio cannot be changed when [OLD MOVIE] is selected.

/ , then touch

Customizing your camcorder

STBY REC

Fading out Fading in

Continued ,

Page 94

Recording items on the OPTION MENU (Continued)

PICT. EFFECT (Picture effect)

You can add special effects to an image during recording or playback. appears.

B OFF

Does not use [PICT. EFFECT] setting.

SEPIA

Images appear in sepia.

B&W

Images appear in black and white.

PASTEL*

Images appear as a pale pastel drawing.

MICREF LEVEL

You can select the microphone level for recording sound. Select [LOW] when you want to record exciting and powerful sound in a concert hall, etc.

B NORMAL

Records various surround sounds, converting them into the certain level.

LOW ( )

Records surround sound faithfully. This setting is not suitable for recording conversations.

• The setting returns to [NORMAL] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) for more than 12 hours.

• You can also operate by pressing PHOTO on the Remote Commander (p. 142).

SELF-TIMER

The self-timer starts recording a still image after about 10 seconds. Press PHOTO to record still images when [SELF-TIMER] is set to [ON] and appears. To cancel the count down, touch [RESET]. To cancel the self-timer, select [OFF].

Page 95

Viewing items on the OPTION MENU

See page 88 for setting operation.

Items * Page

tab DELETE DELETE ALL

tab DIVIDE ERASE ERASE ALL MOVE

-- (A tab depends on the situation)

ADD

ADD ALL PRINT SLIDE SHOW VOLUME DATA CODE SLIDE SHOW SET

ADD ADD ALL

a 54

a 55

a 56

a 58

a 59

a 58

a 63

-47

a 84

-47

a 57

a 58

Customizing your camcorder

-- (No tab) COPIES DATE/TIME SIZE DISC MENU

(DVD MENU for SD (standard definition) image quality)

* Items that are included in the HOME MENU

also.

-64

a 69

Page 96

Using a Computer

What you can do with Windows computer

When you install the “Picture Motion Browser” on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations.

z Tips

• See page 101 when you use a Macintosh computer.

Main functions

x Playing a disc in AVCHD format

t Player for AVCHD

You can view movies recorded on a disc in AVCHD format using your camcorder by inserting the disc into the DVD drive of your computer.

b Notes

• Even in a computer environment where the operations are guaranteed, some frames may be dropped from movies.

x Importing movies taken with your

camcorder

You can import the movies recorded with HD (high definition) image quality as they are.

x Viewing movies imported to a

computer

You can manage movies and still images by date and time of shooting, and select movies or still images you want to view as

thumbnails. These thumbnails can be enlarged and played in a slide show.

x Creating a disc in AVCHD format

Selected from the movies imported, you can create a disc consisting of movies with HD (high definition) image quality.

x Copying a disc

t Video Disc Copier

You can copy all the images on a disc taken with your camcorder.

About “First Step Guide”

The “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software “Picture Motion Browser” stored on the CD-ROM (supplied). Referring to “Installing the “First Step Guide”” (p. 98), start the “First Step Guide”, then follow the instructions.

About the help function of the software

The Help guide explains all the functions of all the software applications. Refer to the Help guide for further detailed operations after reading the “First Step Guide” thoroughly. To display the Help guide, click the [?] mark on the screen.

System requirements

When using “Picture Motion Browser”

OS: Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional,

Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional Standard installation is required. Operation is not assured if the above OS

Page 97

has been upgraded or in a multi-boot environment.

CPU: Intel Pentium 4 2.8 GHz CPU or faster

(Pentium 4 3.6 GHz or faster is recommended.) For processing SD (standard definition) image quality content only, an Intel Pentium III 1 GHz or faster is necessary.

Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (This

product is based on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have DirectX installed.) .Net Framework 1.1 (installed with Picture Motion Browser, depending on your computer environment)

Sound system: Direct Sound compatible

sound card

Memory: 512 MB or more (1 GB or more is

recommended.) For processing SD (standard definition) image quality content only, 256 MB of memory or more is necessary.

Hard disk:

Disc volume required for installation: Approximately 800 MB (10 GB or more may be necessary when creating AVCHD format discs.)

Display: DirectX 7 or later-compatible video

card, Minimum 1024 X 768 dots, High Color (16 bit color)

Others: USB port (this must be provided

as standard, Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compatible) is recommended), optical disc drive (CD-ROM drive is necessary for installation)

b Note

• Operations are not guaranteed on all the recommended environments. For example, other open or background applications running on currently may limit product performance.

• Even in a computer environment where the operations are guaranteed, frames may be dropped from movies with HD (high definition) image quality, resulting in uneven playback. However, imported images and images on discs created subsequently will not be affected.

z Tips

• If your computer has a Memory Stick slot, insert the “Memory Stick Duo” on which still images are recorded into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor (optional), then insert it into the Memory Stick slot on your computer to copy still images to the computer.

• When using a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and your computer is not compatible with it, connect your camcorder with the USB cable instead of using the Memory Stick slot on the computer.

Using a Computer

When playing still images recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” on a computer

OS: Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional,

Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP Professional Standard installation is required. Operation is not assured if the above OS has been upgraded.

CPU: MMX Pentium 200 MHz or faster Others: USB port (this must be provided

as standard)

Page 98

Installing the “First Step Guide” and software

You need to install the “First Step Guide” and software to your Windows computer

before connecting your camcorder to the computer. The installation is

required only for the first time. Contents to be installed and procedures may differ depending on your OS.

z Tips

• See page 101 when you use a Macintosh computer.

Installing the “First Step Guide”

1 Confirm that your camcorder is

not connected to the computer.

2 Turn on the computer.

• Log on as Administrators for installation.

• Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software.

3 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the

disc drive of your computer.

The installation screen appears.

4 Click [FirstStepGuide].

5 Select your language from the

pull-down menu.

6 Click [FirstStepGuide(HTML)].

Installation starts.

When [Save is complete] appears, click [OK] to finish the installation.

If the screen does not appear

1 Click [Start], then click [My

Computer]. (For Windows 2000, double-click [My Computer].)

2 Double-click [SONYPICTUTIL (E:)]

(CD-ROM) (disc drive).*

* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary

depending on the computer.

To install the First Step Guide in PDF

In step 4, click [FirstStepGuide(PDF)].

To install the software “Adobe Reader” to display the PDF file

In step 4, click [Adobe(R) Reader(R)].

Page 99

Installing the software

1 Perform steps 1 to 3 in “Installing

the “First Step Guide”” (p. 98).

5 Read [License Agreement], select

[I accept the terms of the license agreement] when you agree, then click [Next].

2 Click [Install].

3 Select the language for the

application to be installed, then click [Next].

4 Click [Next].

6 Select your camcorder video

system, then click [Next].

7 Select where to save the

software, then click [Next].

Using a Computer

8 Click [Install] on the [Ready to

Install the Program].

The installation of Picture Motion Browser starts.

Continued ,

Page 100

Installing the “First Step Guide” and software (Continued)

The short-cut icons, such as [ ] (Picture Motion Browser), appear on the desktop.

9 One of the following installation

screens appears, depending on the computer environment. Check the screen and follow the instructions displayed to install the required software.

x Sonic UDF Reader

Software required to recognize an AVCHD format disc

x Windows Media Format 9 Series

Runtime (Windows 2000 only)

Software required to create a DVD

x Microsoft .NET Framework 1.1

Software required to create AVCHD

x Microsoft DirectX 9.0c

Software required to handle movies

Remove the CD-ROM from the disc drive of your computer.

100

Make sure [Yes, I want to restart my computer now.] is selected, then click [Finish].

The computer restarts automatically (Restart).