Sony HDR-UX3E, HDR-UX7E User Manual

2-319-778-11(1)

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

HDR-UX3E/UX5E/UX7E

Enjoying Your

Camcorder

Getting Started 17

Recording/Playback

Editing 45

Utilizing Recording Media 53

Customizing Your

Camcorder

Using a Computer 84

Troubleshooting 89

Additional Information 101

Quick Reference 116

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

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-UX5E 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.

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HDR-UX7E 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

CAUTION

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

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.

Battery pack

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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

Continued ,

Read this before operating your camcorder (Continued)

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-RW – 8cm DVD+RW – 8cm DVD-R – 8cm DVD+R DL

Use the discs with marks listed below. See page 12 for details.

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

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

* Depending on the place you bought, the disc has

a mark.

*(for

Types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder

You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or

(p. 105).

“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.

• Do not attach a label or the like on a “Memory Stick Duo” or a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

When using a “Memory Stick Duo” with “Memory Stick” compatible equipment

Be sure to insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

Memory Stick Duo Adaptor

Using the camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.

Viewfinder LCD screen

Battery

• The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See “Handling your camcorder” (p. 107).

• 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. 21) or the ACCESS lamp (p. 24) 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 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. 12).

• 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.

Continued ,

Read this before operating your camcorder (Continued)

About language setting

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. 22).

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 from the actual images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder.

• 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 illustrations used on this manual are based on the model HDR-UX7E.

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.

Table of Contents

Read this before operating your

camcorder .......................................2

Subject examples and solutions ..... 9

Enjoying Your Camcorder

Operation flow .............................. 10

Selecting the right disc .................12

“ HOME” and “ OPTION”

- Taking advantage of two types of

menus............................................14

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items ..17 Step 2: Charging the battery pack 18 Step 3: Turning the power on and

setting the date and time ..............21

Changing the language setting .... 22

Step 4: Adjusting your camcorder to

suit you .........................................23

Step 5: Inserting a disc or a “Memory

Stick Duo” .....................................24

Recording/Playback

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy

Handycam) ...................................27

Recording the images ...................30

Zooming ........................................ 32

Recording sound with more presence

(5.1ch surround recording) ........... 32

Using the flash .............................. 33

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

....................................................... 33

Recording in dark places

(NightShot) .................................... 34

Adjusting the exposure for backlit

subjects ........................................ 34

Recording in mirror mode ............. 34

Recording the fast action in slow-

motion (SMTH SLW REC) .............. 34

Controlling the image settings manually with the camera control dial

(HDR-UX7E) .................................. 35

Viewing the images .......................37

Using PB zoom ............................. 39

Playing back a series of still images

(Slide show) .................................. 39

Playing the image on a TV ............40

Editing

(OTHERS) category ................45

Deleting images ............................45

Dividing the image ........................47

Creating the Playlist ......................48

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD

recorders .......................................50

Printing recorded images (PictBridge

compliant printer) ..........................51

Utilizing Recording Media

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY)

category ........................................53

Making the disc compatible with playback on other devices or DVD

drives (Finalizing) ..........................53

Playing a disc on other devices ....57

Finding the right disc - DISC SELECT

GUIDE ..........................................58

Deleting all scenes on the disc

(Formatting) ..................................59

Recording additional scenes after

finalizing ........................................61

Customizing Your Camcorder

What you can do with the

(SETTINGS) category of the

HOME MENU ...............................62

Using the HOME MENU ................ 62

List of the (SETTINGS) category

items .............................................. 62

Continued ,

MOVIE SETTINGS ....................... 64

(Items for recording movies)

PHOTO SETTINGS ..................... 68

(Items for recording still images)

VIEW IMAGES SET ..................... 71

(Items to customize the display)

SOUND/DISP SET ....................... 72

(Items to adjust the sound and the screen)

OUTPUT SETTINGS ................... 74

(Items for when connecting other devices)

CLOCK/ LANG .......................... 75

(Items to set clock and language)

GENERAL SET ............................ 75

(Other setup items)

Activating functions using the

OPTION MENU ....................... 77

Using the OPTION MENU ............. 77

Recording items on the OPTION

MENU ............................................ 78

Viewing items on the OPTION

MENU ............................................ 78

Details on the OPTION MENU

items ............................................. 79

Using a Computer

Precautions and maintenance .... 103

About the Disc ............................. 103

About the AVCHD format ............104

About the “Memory Stick” .......... 105

About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery

pack ............................................ 106

About the x.v.Color ...................... 107

Handling your camcorder ........... 107

Specifications .............................110

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls .....116

Indicators displayed during

recording/playback .....................120

Glossary ..................................... 123

Index ...........................................124

What you can do with Windows

computer ...................................... 84

Installing the “First Step Guide” and

software ........................................ 86

Viewing “First Step Guide” ........... 88

Using a Macintosh computer ........ 88

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting ........................... 89

Warning indicators and

messages ..................................... 98

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad .... 101

Subject examples and solutions

Checking your golf swing

Getting a good shot of a ski slope or beach

B SMTH SLW REC ....................... 34 B Backlight....................................34

B BEACH.......................................81

B SNOW........................................81

Capturing still images during movie recording

B Dual Rec ................................... 33 B SPOTLIGHT ...............................81

Flowers in closeup

B PORTRAIT ................................ 81

B FOCUS ...................................... 79

B TELE MACRO............................ 79

Focusing on the dog on the left

A child on the stage under a spot light

Fireworks with all its splendor

B FIREWORKS ..............................81

B FOCUS.......................................79

A sleeping child under dim light

side of the screen

B FOCUS ...................................... 79

B SPOT FOCUS ............................ 79

B NightShot ..................................34

B COLOR SLOW SHTR .................82

Enjoying Your Camcorder

Operation flow

B Prepare the right disc (p. 12).

You can consult the [DISC SELECT GUIDE] (p. 58) displayed on the screen to select the right disc.

B Initialize the disc (p. 24).

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

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

AVCHD format

DVD format

Image resolution: about 3.75 times of that of SD (standard definition)

The disc can be played on the devices compatible with the AVCHD format (p. 57).

b Notes

• Your camcorder is compatible with the “1440 × 1080/50i” standard of AVCHD format (p. 123).

“AVCHD 1080i format” is abbreviated as “AVCHD” in this manual, except when it must be described in more detail.

The recorded disc can be played on DVD devices.

B Shoot using your camcorder (p. 30).

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

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

B Viewing movies on a HD (high definition) TV

(p. 41)

You can enjoy movies with HD (high definition) image quality, with the same image quality as they were recorded.

B Viewing movies on a non-HD (high

definition) TV (p. 42)

You can enjoy movies recorded with HD (high definition) image quality, but they will be converted to SD (standard definition) image quality.

z Tips

• You can consult the [TV CONNECT Guide] (p. 40) displayed on the screen on connecting your TV and camcorder.

B Playing discs on AVCHD format compatible devices (p. 57)

If your device is compatible with AVCHD format, you can play a disc with HD (high definition) image quality on the device.

Important notice regarding discs recorded in the AVCHD format

• This camcorder captures high definition footage in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD based players or recorders, as the DVD player/recorder may fail to eject the media and may erase its contents without warning. DVD media containing AVCHD footage may be played on a compatible Blu-ray

™ player/recorder or other compatible device.

Disc

Enjoying Your Camcorder

B Dubbing disc contents by connecting your

camcorder to a DVD device (p. 50)

The dubbed images will be recorded with SD (standard definition) image quality.

B Editing the disc on a computer (p. 84)

Using a computer, you can edit or copy images recorded with HD (high definition) image quality. Install the supplied application software on the computer in advance.

Selecting the right disc

You can use DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVD-R, 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.

( ) indicates the reference page.

HD (high definition) image quality Disc type DVD-

Disc symbols

DVD+RWDVD-R DVD+R

Deleting or editing images on your camcorder (45, 47)

Finalizing required to play on other devices (53)

Making additional recordings on a finalized disc (61)

Formatting the used disc to use it again (59) aa --

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

aa --

aaaa

aa --

SD (standard definition) image quality

Disc type DVD-RW

VIDEO VR

DVD+RWDVD-R DVD+R

Disc symbols

Deleting the last movie recorded (46)

Deleting or editing images on your camcorder (45, 47)

Finalizing required to play on other devices (53)

Making additional recordings on a finalized disc (61)

Formatting the used disc to use it again (59)

Making longer recordings on a side of a disc

*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.

aaa --

- a ---

aa-*

aaa --

----a

Recording time

Approximate recordable time in minutes on one side of a disc. Recordable time differs depending on the recording mode (p. 62).

Disc type DVD-RW/DVD+RW/DVD-R DVD+R DL

HD (high definition) image quality

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) 27 (26)

20 (14)

25 (18)

32 (26)

SD (standard definition) image quality

SD 9M (HQ) (high quality)

SD 6M (SP) (standard quality)

SD 3M (LP) (long play)

b Notes

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

z Tips

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

• If you use a double-sided disc, you can record on both sides of the disc (p. 103).

• [DISC SELECT GUIDE] will help you select a right disc (p. 58).

20 (18)

30 (18) 55 (32)

60 (44)

( ): the minimum recording time

35 (26)

45 (34)

60 (50)

35 (32)

110 (80)

Enjoying Your Camcorder

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.

Enjoying Your Camcorder

“ HOME” and “ OPTION”

- Taking advantage of two types of menus

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

(HELP) Displays a de scription of the item (p. 15).

Category (p. 14)

B Categories and items of the HOME MENU

(CAMERA) category

Items Page

MOVIE* PHOTO* SMTH SLW REC

(VIEW IMAGES) category

Items Page

VISUAL INDEX* PLAYLIST

(OTHERS) category

Items Page

DELETE* EDIT PLAYLIST EDIT PRINT COMPUTER TV CONNECT Guide*

(MANAGE DISC/MEMORY)

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. 18)

Mains lead (1) (p. 18)

Component video cable (1) (p. 41)

A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 41, 50)

USB cable (1) (p. 51)

Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60 (HDR-UX3E/UX5E), NP-FH70 (HDRUX7E) (1) (p. 18)

Getting Started

CD-ROM “Handycam Application Software” (1) (p. 84)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 119)

A button-type lithium battery is already installed.

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

DC IN jack

Battery

POWER switch

DC plug

Jack cover

You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) (p. 106) after attaching it to your camcorder.

b Notes

• You can use only the H series of “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with your camcorder.

AC Adaptor

1 Slide the POWER switch in the

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

2 Raise the viewfinder, then attach

the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.

3 Connect the AC Adaptor to the

DC IN jack of your camcorder.

CHG (charge)

Mains lead

Open the jack cover, and connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor. Match the v mark on the DC plug with the v mark on your camcorder.

lamp

To the wall socket

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.

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.

To remove the battery pack

1 Slide the POWER switch to OFF

(CHG).

2 Raise the viewfinder. 3 Press the BATT (battery release) button

and remove the battery pack.

b Notes

• When you remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor, make sure that the (Movie) lamp/

(Still) lamp (p. 21) is turned off.

When storing the battery pack

Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (see page 107 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 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-FH50 135

NP-FH60 (supplied with HDR-UX3E/UX5E)

NP-FH70 (supplied with HDR-UX7E)

NP-FH100 390

135

170

Recording time

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

HDR-UX3E/UX5E

Continuous

Battery pack

Image quality

NP-FH50 60 75 30 35

NP-FH60 (supplied)

recording time

HD SD HD SD

65 75 30 35

65 80 30 40

80 100 40 50

85 100 40 50

90 105 45 50

Typical recording time*

Continued ,

Getting Started

Step 2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)

Battery pack

Continuous recording time

Typical recording time*

NP-FH70 135 160 65 80

140 165 70 80

140 170 70 85

NP-FH100 320 370 160 185

335 375 165 185

335 385 165 190

HDR-UX7E

Battery pack

Image

quality

Continuous recording time

HD SD HD SD

Typical recording time*

NP-FH50 55 65 30 30

60 70 30 35

NP-FH70 (supplied)

120 145 65 70

125 150 70 75

NP-FH100 285 335 160 165

300 340 165 170

* Typical recording time shows the time when

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

**“

HD” stands for high definition image quality,

SD” stands for standard image quality.

and “

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: 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.

HDR-UX3E/UX5E

Battery pack

Image quality

LCD panel opened*

HD SD HD SD

NP-FH50 95 105 100 115

NP-FH60

130 140 135 150

(supplied)

NP-FH70 205 230 220 245

NP-FH100 470 515 500 555

HDR-UX7E

Battery pack

Image quality

LCD panel opened*

HD SD HD SD

NP-FH50 90 105 100 115

NP-FH70

200 230 215 245

(supplied)

NP-FH100 455 515 485 555

* When the LCD backlight is on. **“

HD” stands for high definition image quality,

SD” stands for standard image quality.

and “

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. 21).

• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or Battery Info (p. 19) 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.

LCD panel closed

• When attaching an optional video light, it is recommended that you use an NP-FH100 battery pack.

• We do not recommend using an NP-FH30, 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.

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.

• 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 and 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.

Touch the buttons on the screen.

POWER switch

1 While pressing the green button

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

(Movie): To record movies

(Still): To record still images

The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.

Getting Started

2 Select the desired geographical

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

Continued ,

Step 3: Turning the power on and setting the date and time (Continued)

• It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to be

3 Set [SUMMERTIME], then touch

[NEXT].

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

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

month with v/V.

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

the same way, then touch [NEXT].

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

The clock starts.

You can set any year up to the year

2037.

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. 76).

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 ([DATA CODE], p. 71).

• Refer to page 102 for information concerning “World time difference.”

• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly, adjust the touch panel (CALIBRATION) (p. 109).

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. 63).

To turn off the power

Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).

To reset the date and time

Touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [CLOCK/ LANG] t [CLOCK

SET], and adjust the date and time.

b Notes

• If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets

discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the built-in rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 110).

Step 4: Adjusting your camcorder to suit you

LCD panel

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

190 degrees to

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.

b Notes

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

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. 72) to adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.

• Pressing DISP/BATT INFO toggles the screen indicators (such as time code) on or off.

the camcorder

DISP/BATT INFO

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

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. 73).

Getting Started

Step 5: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo”

Disc

A new 8 cm DVD-RW, DVD+RW, DVDR, or DVD+R DL is required for recording (p. 12).

b Notes

• Remove dust or fingerprints from the disc

beforehand, using a soft cloth (p.104).

1 Check that the power of your

camcorder is on.

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

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 disc cover opens slightly, automatically.

ACCESS lamp (Disc)

Disc cover OPEN switch

Pickup lens

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.

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. Skip to step 7 when you use a DVD-R/ DVD+R DL.

5 When you use a DVD-RW/

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

b Notes

• You cannot use [Use DISC SELECT GUIDE] during Easy Handycam operation (p. 27). Format the disc, following the instructions on the screen.

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.

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, select a recording format, [VIDEO] or [VR],

p. 12). If you format a disc during Easy

( Handycam operation (p. 27), the recording format is fixed to [VIDEO].

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

To remove the disc

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 to open the disc

cover.

2 While holding the disc fastener at the

center, tip up the edge of the disc.

b Notes

• You cannot change the image quality (HD (high definition) or SD (standard definition), p. 10) of a disc midway.

• 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. 109). 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 again to record new images, see “Deleting all scenes on the disc (Formatting)” on page 59.

• You can check the right disc using [DISC SELECT GUIDE] on the HOME MENU (p. 58).

Getting Started

Continued ,

Step 5: Inserting a disc or a “Memory Stick Duo” (Continued)

“Memory Stick Duo”

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

(p. 105).

z Tips

• The number of recordable images vary, depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 68.

1 Open the LCD panel.

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”

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

Access lamp (“Memory Stick Duo”)

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

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

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

b Notes

• When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo,” or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged.

• 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.

Recording/Playback

d hold lightl

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)

With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy viewing.

HDR-UX3E/UX5E

Recording/Playback

Movies

1 Slide the POWER switch G to

light up the (Movie) lamp.

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.

2 Press EASY A.

appears on the screen.

3 Press START/STOP H or E to

start recording.*

To stop recording, press it again.

[STBY] t [REC]

Still images

1 Slide the POWER switch G to

light up the (Still) lamp.

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.

2 Press EASY A.

appears on the screen.

3 Press PHOTO F to record.**

Press an to adjust the focus.

Flashing t Lit

Press fully to record.

* Movies are recorded in [SP] mode. **Still images are recorded in [FINE] quality.

Continued ,

Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam) (Continued)

Playing back movies/still images

1 Slide the POWER switch G to turn on your camcorder.

2 Press (VIEW IMAGES) I or D.

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

Returns to the recording

screen

Previous 6 images

Next 6 images

Returns to the recording

screen

Displays the movies

Disc type

Appears with the image on each of the tab that was lastly played back/recorded (B for the still image).

Displays the still images

3 Start playback.

Viewing movies:

Touch the tab and the movie to be played back.

Return (to the VISUAL

INDEX screen)

Beginning of the scene/

previous scene

Stop (go to the VISUAL

INDEX screen)

Toggles Play or Pause as you touch

Next scene

Date/time of recording*

Reverse/ Forward

Viewing still images:

Touch the tab and the still image to be played back.

Return (to the VISUAL

INDEX screen)

Recording media

Go to the VISUAL INDEX

screen

* [DATA CODE] is fixed to [DATE/TIME] (p. 71).

Slide show (p. 39)

Date/time of recording*

Previous/Next

z Tips

• When all movies from the selected one to the last one are played back, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen.

• Touch / during pause to play back movies slowly.

• To adjust the sound volume, touch (HOME) t (SETTINGS) t [SOUND SETTINGS] t [VOLUME], then adjust the volume with / .

To cancel Easy Handycam operation

Press EASY A again. disappears from the screen.

Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam operation

Touch (HOME) B or C to display adjustable menu settings (p. 14, 62).

b Notes

• You can neither delete nor edit movies on the disc during Easy Handycam operation.

• Most of the settings return to the default setting automatically. However, some menu items are fixed to certain settings. For details, see page 89.

• When formatting DVD-RW discs with SD (standard definition) image quality, the recording format is fixed to VIDEO (p. 59).

• (OPTION) does not appear on the screen.

• Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add effects to the images, or if you want to make various settings.

To make the disc compatible with playback on other devices (Finalizing)

You need to finalize a recorded disc to make it compatible with playback on other devices or computers. See page 53 on finalizing operation.

b Notes

• You cannot make additional recordings on DVD-R/DVD+R DL discs once you finalize the disc, even if there is free space on the disc.

• The disc menu is fixed to [STYLE1].

• You cannot record additional materials on a finalized disc during Easy Handycam operation (p. 61).

Recording/Playback

Unavailable buttons during Easy Handycam operation

During Easy Handycam operation, you cannot use some buttons/functions, since most of the items are set automatically (p. 89). If you press a button that does not work, [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation.] may appear on the screen.

Recording the images

Recording/Playback

(HOME) D

START/STOP C

POWER switch A

If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.

(Movie) lamp

(Still) lamp

Fastening the grip belt

Fasten the grip belt in the order shown below, then hold your camcorder securely.

(HOME) E

START/STOP B

PHOTO F

Lens cover

Opens in accordance with the setting of the POWER switch.

b Notes

• If the ACCESS lamp (p. 24, 26) is on after

recording is finished, it means that 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.

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