Sony HDV 1080i User Manual

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

HVR-A1N

Expanding New HD Shooting
Opportunities with an Unprecedented Level
of Compactness and Mobility

– the HVR-A1N HDV 1080i Camcorder

In response to the ever-increasing demands for HD program production, Sony launched the
new high-definition recording system adopting the HDV 1080i specification of the

TM

HDV
introduction, these products have rapidly acquired a huge reputation from a wide range of
customers due to their outstanding picture quality, stunning performance, and
cost-effectiveness. Sony has now expanded the HDV line-up by introducing the HVR-A1N
camcorder to meet further evolving needs for HD acquisition.
The HVR-A1N is an extremely compact and lightweight handy-type camcorder, ideal for

format – the HVR-Z1N camcorder and HVR-M10N VTR – in 2004. Upon that

applications where space is at a premium or extreme mobility is required. This camcorder
is equipped with a newly developed 1/3-inch type, 2.97-megapixel (total) CMOS sensor and

TM

an all-new Enhanced Imaging Processor
sensor, providing outstanding high-definition picture quality.
In addition to HDV 1080i recording and playback, this camcorder offers the DVCAM
recording and playback capabilities that are provided on current Sony DVCAM models.
A down-conversion capability of its 1080i recordings is also provided for a flexible choice of
production systems in HDV, DVCAM, or DV format.
Furthermore, the HVR-A1N incorporates a variety of convenient and professional features
such as XLR audio input, time code capability, various automatic shooting modes,
and still picture recording.
Available at an extremely affordable price, the HVR-A1N will be another powerful option
for HD field acquisition by all video professionals, bringing further broadened shooting
opportunities.

that optimizes the performance of the CMOS

TM

/DV

2

Direction of tape travel

10 μm

Sub Code sector

MPEG-2 PES sector

(Video + Audio + Search + AUX)

ITI sector

Direction
of head motion

6.35 mm
(1/4 inch)

ITI: Insert and Track Information
PES: Packetized Elementary Stream

HDV FORMAT

HDV 1080i Specification

1

The HDV 1080i specification of the HDV format features
1,080 effective scanning lines (interlace scanning system) and
1,440 horizontal pixels. It adopts the MPEG-2 compression
format (MP@H-14 for video), which uses 8-bit digital
component recording with a sampling rate of 4:2:0. MPEG-1
Audio Layer II is used as the audio compression format,
allowing for two-channel recording with a sampling frequency
of 48 kHz/16-bit. The HDV 1080i specification provides high
picture quality that can be used for HDTV program
production.

1 The HDV format also defines the HDV 720p specification, which features 720
effective scanning lines (progressive scanning system) and 1,280 horizontal pixels.

Track Pattern of the HDV 1080i Specification

Compatible with Existing and
New DV Videocassette Tape

As a member of the proven DV family of formats, the HDV
format has, from the outset, been developed for
compatibility with all grades of DV videocassette tape. This
allows operators to use high-grade DV videocassette tapes
for applications where high robustness is critical, or
consumer-grade videocassette tapes for more economical
operations. For heavy-duty applications, a new high-grade
mini cassette tape has been developed; the DigitalMaster
PHDVM-63DM. This tape is compatible with the HDV,
DVCAM, and DV formats.

TM

Long Recording Time

The HDV format adopts the same track pitch and tape speed
as the DV format, thus offering the same recording time
– a maximum of 63 minutes when recording on a
DigitalMaster mini cassette tape.

3

CAMERA FEATURES

1/3-inch Type, 2.97-megapixel CMOS Sensor

The HVR-A1N incorporates one 1/3-inch type primary color
CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor
with a total pixel number of 2.97 million and a 4:3 aspect
ratio, which has been developed based on Sony’s many years
of experience in developing imaging devices.
This CMOS sensor can produce high-quality images with high
sensitivity and low noise levels, which is superior to most of
traditional CMOS sensors due to advantages such as its unique
pixel design, which optimizes the photo-sensor area in each
pixel, and advanced noise reduction technique. Another key
advantage of this CMOS sensor is its high-speed processing
capability. Since data captured using a single CMOS sensor for
high-definition format recording is extremely large, it would
take considerable time to transfer and process by traditional
methods. With the Sony CMOS sensor, such large data can be
processed at an incredibly high speed thanks to its flexible
multi-channel readout structure. Use of the CMOS sensor also
allows even large amounts of HD-resolution data to be
processed with amazingly low power requirements, thus
making the camcorder’s overall size extremely compact. Lastly,
CMOS sensors can eliminate vertical smear, even though the
pixel size is small.

Optical 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T*
Zoom Lens

The HVR-A1N is equipped with the new Carl Zeiss Vario­Sonnar T
fully coated glass is the same as used on Carl Zeiss prime
lenses, producing sharp, high-contrast images, with virtually no
chromatic aberration.

®

*

high-definition lens with 10x zoom function. Its

Electronic Super SteadyShot System

The Super SteadyShot™ system used in the HVR-A1N detects
horizontal and vertical movements and electronically
compensates for unsteady camera handling. The active image
area (the number of pixels used) in the CMOS sensor is
automatically adjusted for the Super SteadyShot system to
achieve the best performance at each zoom position.

Full Scan Mode

The HVR-A1N camcorder offers a Full Scan mode, which allows
the camcorder to capture images with the resolution of
approximately two million pixels at every zoom position when
the Super SteadyShot system is off. With this mode, images of
higher picture quality can be obtained.

Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP)

The EIP is Sony’s newly developed image processing IC
intended for high-speed processing of large amounts of data
captured by the CMOS sensor. In addition, the EIP employs
the unique algorithm that first separates image data into
texture patterns and brightness components and then
processes these two elements independently. This makes it
possible to have high details in the blacks as well as in
brightly illuminated areas of the picture, delivering a clear
image with a wide dynamic range even under backlight
conditions

Combined use of the EIP and CMOS sensor allows the
camcorder to provide extremely high image quality with a
high level of gradation and detailed image reproduction.

2 Available when the new Backlight Compensation function is activated.

2

.

4

RECORDER FEATURES

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

●

HDV 1080i (16:9)

DVCAM/DV (4:3)

Squeeze Letterbox Edge crop

●

Switchable Recording and Playback

– HDV 1080i/DVCAM/DV

The HVR-A1N can switch between HDV 1080i, DVCAM, and
DV recording, providing full flexibility to record in either
standard or high-definition format depending on production
needs.

3 The HVR-A1N supports DV SP mode only; no support for DV LP mode.

3

Down-conversion Playback Capabilities

The HVR-A1N can convert material from 1080i down to 480i,
and output these video signals through its i.LINK
In addition, these signals can also be output via either analog
component, composite, or S-Video connectors. This allows
editing of recorded material with a nonlinear editing system
using current DV editing software as well as recording SD
signals to an external VTR, while simultaneously recording HDV
signals with the HVR-A1N. The HVR-A1N can also
down-convert to 480P and output these signals through its
analog component video connectors.
When down-converting these signals, the aspect ratio
displayed can be converted from 16:9 to 4:3. Display modes
can be selected from Squeeze, Letterbox, or Edge crop.

4 i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an
IEEE 1394 connector. Not all products with an i.LINK connector will necessarily
communicate with each other. For information on compatibility, operating
conditions, and proper connection, please refer to the documentation supplied
with any device with an i.LINK connector. For information on devices that
include an i.LINK connection, please contact your nearest Sony office.

TM4

interface.

Still Picture Recording to
Memory Stick Duo Media

The HVR-A1N incorporates a high-resolution digital camera
function. Thanks to the 2.97-megapixel CMOS sensor, still
pictures with 1,920 x 1,440 pixels can be recorded to Memory
Stick Duo™ media. Still pictures can be captured by pressing
the dedicated ‘Photo’ button, and this can be done even when
recording video to tape, without any interruptions. In addition,
any desired video frame recorded on tape can be captured as a
still image with 1,440 x 810 pixels

5

and recorded onto Memory

Stick Duo media after video shooting.

5 When captured from a tape recorded in the HDV format.

Resolution of Still Pictures

Resolution of Still Pictures

1920 x 1440 (4:3)
1440 x 1080 (4:3)

1080 x 810 (4:3)

640 x 480 (4:3)

1920 x 1080 (16:9)

1440 x 810 (16:9)

640 x 360 (16:9)

Still Picture Mode

–

–
–

Video Recording Mode

–
–

–
–

–

Video Playback Mode

–
–
–

–

16:9 Widescreen Acquisition in DVCAM and
DV Formats

The HVR-A1N is capable of native 16:9 widescreen image
capturing, with a high resolution of 720 x 480 pixels in
DVCAM and DV formats, and providing true 16:9 images in
Standard Definition.

Recording, Playback, and Down-conversion Formats

1
1
1

uuu

Output

Analog

Composite

–
–

u

S-Video

2
2
2

uuu

–
–

Recording
Format

1080/60i
480/60i (16:9)

480/60i (4:3)

: Available

O: Either 1 or 2 connection is available. When both are connected to cables,the 1 connection has a priority.

u

Playback/
Down Conversion Format

1080/60i
480/60i (16:9/4:3)
480/60i (16:9/4:3)
480/60i (16:9/4:3)
480/60i (4:3)

u

u

i.LINK

–

Analog

Component

HD Codec Engine

The HVR-A1N employs the highly advanced HD Codec
Engine™ feature, which efficiently compresses base band HD
signal data at approx. 25 Mb/s with MPEG-2 compression,
while maintaining optimal HD
quality. Designed for reduced
energy consumption, this powerful
digital signal processor fits
perfectly inside the compact and
streamlined body of the HVR-A1N.

i.LINK Interface

The HVR-A1N is equipped with a 4-pin i.LINK interface.
This allows for on-cable digital transfer
command signals to a connected, compatible VTR or
nonlinear editing system in the HDV, DVCAM, and DV
formats.

6 Insert and assemble editing using HDV material is not recommended with the
HVR-A1N.

6

of audio, video, and

2-channel XLR Audio Input

The HVR-A1N provides two XLR audio input connectors for
connecting professional microphones or for feeding an
external-line audio source. Phantom power of approx. 48 V
can be supplied for the external condenser microphone.
INPUT 1 audio can be recorded on CH1 only, or on both CH1
and CH2 audio tracks, with easy selection via a switch.
The HVR-A1N also comes equipped with two types of
microphones; an external directional microphone and a built­in stereo microphone.

2-channel Independent Audio Record Level
Control with Audio Level Meter

Each input level for CH1
and CH2 can be
independently adjusted and
viewed with an audio level
meter on the LCD monitor.

5

OPERATIONAL & CREATIVE VERSATILITY

Compact and Lightweight Design

The HVR-A1N features an extremely compact and lightweight
body, providing an unprecedented level of mobility in HD field
acquisition. The camcorder itself weighs only 670 g (1 lb 7
oz) and just 1.3 kg (2 lb 14 oz) including the lens hood, XLR
audio adaptor, directional microphone,
NP-QM91D InfoLITHIUM
Pack, and PHDVM-63DM DigitalMaster Mini
Cassette Tape.

TM

Rechargeable Battery

Zoom/Focus Ring

Built-in Stereo Microphone

BACK LIGHT Compensation Button

16:9, Color/Black-and-white Switchable LCD
Viewfinder

The 0.44-inch type color LCD viewfinder displays high­resolution color pictures of approx. 252,000 pixels in a
widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9. Operators can select to
display pictures in either color or black and white to match
the user’s preference.

2.7-inch7Type, 16:9 Widescreen, Hybrid,
Color LCD Monitor

The HVR-A1N includes a 2.7-inch type color LCD monitor with
a high resolution of approx. 123,200 pixels, which allows the
input source to be viewed during recording or the playback
picture to be checked on location in a widescreen aspect ratio
of 16:9. This large screen is also helpful in setting menus or
audio recording levels, as well as monitoring the camera and
audio status. The hybrid LCD monitor used in the camcorder
combines the characteristics of both transmissive and
reflective LCD panels, providing clear viewing even in bright
daylight conditions as well as in dark conditions.
This LCD monitor also provides touch-panel control for easy
operations.

7 Viewable area, measured diagonally

Variety of Zoom Operation

The HVR-A1N provides four types of zoom control functions
to offer diverse shooting styles:

● “Zoom lever” located on the camera body

● “Zoom/focus ring” located on the lens body – allows fine

adjustments in zoom position

● “Zoom buttons” located on the LCD monitor – convenient
for low-angle shooting

● Supplied wireless Remote Commander unit

Exposure Lever

The HVR-A1N enables exposure control both manually and
automatically. The Exposure Lever provides two types of
exposure control:

● Manual exposure control to manually change exposure

settings using the Exposure Lever.

● AE (Auto Exposure) Shift function to adjust AE level by 15
steps using the Exposure Lever, while the AE mode is
activated, for more accurate automatic exposure settings.

Zoom Buttons

TELE MACRO Button

EXPANDED FOCUS Button

Exposure Lever/Button

HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) Jack

USB Jack

DC IN Jack

A/V OUT Jack

COMPONENT OUT Jack

Tele Macro

The Tele Macro function allows operators to capture a macro
image from a distance, which is especially useful for shooting
small moving objects. With this function, close-up images can
be shot without the camcorder casting a shadow on the
subject. In addition, the image of the subject is shot in proper
focus, while the background is unfocussed, allowing the
subject to stand out.

Conventional Macro Tele Macro

Images Simulated

New Backlight Compensation

The new Backlight Compensation function allows the
HVR-A1N to produce natural and rich tones for both light and
dark areas of an image under backlight conditions.
Conventional systems of backlight compensation tend to
make the details in light areas sacrificed, but the new
Backlight Compensation function of the HVR-A1N can deliver
superior images with a very wide dynamic range by increasing
only the brightness of dark areas while properly retaining the
brightness of light areas.

6

Shot BShot A

2-channel XLR Audio Connectors

“Memory Stick Duo” Slot

Marker

Four types of markers can be displayed on the LCD monitor
and viewfinder, and can be displayed simultaneously:

Histogram Indicator

The Histogram Indicator for brightness can be displayed on
the LCD monitor and viewfinder, allowing operators to easily
evaluate the brightness of currently captured images for
proper exposure.

Distribution Quantity

Brightness Level

Images Simulated

Shot Transition

The Shot Transition™ function allows for smooth automatic
scene transitions. The operator can program start and end
settings for zoom, focus, and white balance into the A/B
buttons and, by pressing the start button, a smooth transition
will take place according to the set time, because the camera
automatically calculates the intermediate values during the
scene transition. The start of this function can be
synchronized with the camera’s REC start function.
The transition progress can be checked using an indicator
displayed on the LCD monitor. In addition, a start timer
function is also available for the Shot Transition function,
helping to prevent operators from missing a shot.
This function is very useful when complex camera settings are
required during the scene transition – for example, when
shooting subjects moving from the background to the
foreground of a scene.

CENTER

SAFETY ZONE GUIDE FRAME

4:3

Images Simulated

Assign Button

A function frequently used in the field can be assigned to the
Assign Button (push button), located on the right side of the
camera body, allowing operators to make rapid changes
under field conditions. The assignable functions include
Status Check, Super SteadyShot, One Push Auto White
Balance, Histogram Indicator, and Color Bars (two types).

Time Code Preset

The time code can be preset using any number in H/M/S/F
(hours/minutes/seconds/frames) to record desired tape-position
information. The time-code mode can be selected between
“REC RUN” and “FREE RUN”. In addition to the time code,
user bits can also be set.

Cinema-like Image Shooting

Two powerful features to produce cinematic and film-like
pictures are provided on the HVR-A1N. The Cinematone
Gamma™ feature allows operators to quickly set up and load
a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristic to a film
gamma curve. The Cineframe™ feature allows picture
movement to be reproduced like a film of 24 and 30 frames/s.

Long Operating Time

With the optional NP-QM91D InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable
Battery Pack attached, the HVR-A1N can continuously record
in HDV mode for up to 300 minutes, or up to 340 minutes in
DVCAM/DV mode.

Battery Life

Continuous
Recording Time*

NP-FM50 (supplied)
NP-QM71D

(optional)

NP-QM91D

(optional)

*Continuous recording time, indoors at 25C°

**With LCD backlight on

With LCD

Viewfinder On

HDV

80 min
200 min
300 min

DVCAM/DV

90 min
225 min
340 min

Monitor On**

HDV

75 min
195 min
295 min

With LCD

DVCAM/DV

90 min
220 min
330 min

With LCD Viewfinder

and Monitor On**

HDV

DVCAM/DV

70 min

80 min

180 min

200 min

275 min

300 min

7

OTHER CONVENIENT FUNCTIONS

❚ Simultaneous Operation of LCD Monitor and

Viewfinder

❚ Expanded Focus - magnifies the center of the screen on

the LCD monitor and viewfinder to about twice the size,
helping manual focusing.

❚ Peaking - enhances the outline of the image where the

camera focuses on most, and displays the enhanced outline
with color in the LCD monitor and viewfinder, helping
manual focusing.

❚ Zebra - displays a striped pattern in the LCD monitor and

viewfinder across highlight areas, helping manual exposure
settings (100% or 70 to 100% (adjustable by 5% steps)).

❚ Quick REC - shortens the time until the recording starts

from stop mode.

❚ Status Check - displays camera setting menus for audio,

output signal, assign button and exposure lever functions
and hours meter on the LCD monitor with the touch of a
button for easy check.

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

❚ Personal Menu - allows operators to customize the setting

menu to display frequently used menu items.

❚ Battery Info - displays the attached battery’s current

charge level and its current remaining recording time on the
LCD monitor with the touch of a button, when the power is
turned off.

❚ Super Night Shot

TM

- allows operators to capture images
in black and white using a built-in infrared light, even in no
light conditions.

❚ Skin Tone Detail - reduces detailed signal for skin color,

smoothening the reproduction of human skin.

❚ Black Stretch - allows more contrast to be seen in dark

parts of the picture without affecting mid-tones while
maintaining the absolute black level.

❚ Color Bar - Two types
❚ White Balance - Auto, One Push Auto, Indoor (3200 K),

and Outdoor (5800 K)

NP-QM71D/QM91D*

InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable
Battery Pack

UWP-C1

UHF Synthesized Wireless
Microphone Package

RM-1BP

LANC Remote Controller

2NP-QM91D/B*

InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable
Battery Pack (NP-QM91D x 2)

VMC-30VC

3m Component Video Cable

VCL-HG1737C

2.0x Tele Conversion Lens

VMC-30FS

3m Multi AV Cable (with S Video)

VCL-HG0737C

0.7x Wide Conversion Lens

PHDVM-63DM

DigitalMaster Mini Cassette Tape

*When the NP-QM91D battery pack is attached to the HVR-A1N, the battery pack protrudes past the viewfinder.

8

SPECIFICATIONS

Camera section

Lens

Focus
Imaging device
Picture elements

Shutter speed
Minimum illumination

VTR section

Recording format
Play out/Down conversion format

Tape speed

Playback/Recording time
Fast forward/Rewind time

Input/Output connectors

Audio/Video input/output

Component video output

HDV/DV input/output
XLR audio input
Headphone
MIC
LANC
USB

Built-in input/output devices

LCD viewfinder
LCD monitor
Microphone
Speaker

General

Mass
Power requirements

Power consumption
Operating temperature

Storage temperature
Supplied accessories

HDV/DV SP
DVCAM
HDV/DV SP
DVCAM

HDV
DVCAM/DV

Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T*zoom lens,10x (optical),
f = 5.1 to 51 mm
f = 40 to 400 mm in 16:9 mode and 49.3 to 493 mm in 4:3 mode (full scan mode on)*
f = 41 to 480 mm in 16:9 mode and 50 to 590 mm in 4:3 mode (full scan mode off)*
f = 40 to 400 mm in 16:9 mode and 37 to 370 mm in 4:3 mode (still picture mode)*
f = 1.8 to 2.1, filter diameter: 37 mm

Auto,manual, spot focus (touch panel control)
1-chip,1/3-inch type primary color CMOS sensor
Approx. 2,969,000 pixels (total)
1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30,1/60, 1/90,1/100, 1/125,1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/725,1/1000, 1/1500,1/2000, 1/3000,1/4000,
1/6000, 1/10000 s
7 lx with F1.8

1080/60i, 480/60i
1080/60i, 480/60i, 480/60P
Max. 18.812 mm/s with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Max. 28.218 mm/s with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Max. 63 min with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Max. 41 min with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Approx. 2 min 40 s with PHDVM-63DM cassette (using a fully charged battery)
Approx. 1 min 45 s with PHDVM-63DM cassette (using an AC adaptor)

A/V OUT jack, 10-pin connector
Composite video: 1 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced, sync negative
Y:1 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced, sync negative
C: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced
Audio: 327 mV,input impedance more than 47 k , output impedance less than 2.2 k

COMPONENT OUT jack
Y:1 Vp-p (0.3 V, sync negative),75 unbalanced
Pr/Pb (Cr/Cb): 700 mVp-p (75% color bar)

i.LINK interface (IEEE 1394, 4-pin connector S100)
XLR 3-pin female x 2, 327 mV,-60 dBu: 3 k ,+40 dBu: 10.8 k ,power supply: approx.48 V
Stereo minijack (
Minijack x 1, 0.388 mV,low impedance with DC 2.5 to 3.0 V,output impedance 6.8 k (
Stereo mini-minijack (
Mini-B x 1

0.44-inch type,approx. 252,000 (1120 x 225) pixels ,hybrid type, 16:9 aspect ratio

2.7-inch type,approx. 123,200 (560 x 220) pixels,hybrid type,16:9 aspect ratio
Stereo type,noise reduction on/off

φ

16 mm

Approx. 670 g (1 lb 7 oz) (camcorder only)
DC 7.2 V (battery pack),DC 8.4 V (AC adaptor)
Approx. 5.6 W (recording mode with LCD viewfinder on)
Approx. 5.1 W (recording mode with LCD viewfinder on)
0 to 40 °C (32 to 104 °K)

-20 to +60 °C (-4 to 140 °K)
AC-L15 AC adaptor, power code,NP-FM50 InfoLITHIUM rechargeable battery pack, lens hood with lens cover, RMT-831

wireless Remote Commander unit,A/V connecting cable with S video, component video cable, USB cable,Memory Stick Duo
(16 MB), Memory Stick Duo adaptor, ECM-NV1 monaural electret condenser microphone, XLR audio adaptor,shoulder strap,
operating instructions

φ

3.5 mm) x 1

φ

2.5 mm) x 1

φ

3.5 mm), stereo type

* These values are calculated to be equivalent to the 35 mm film.

125.1 (5)

88.1 (3 1/2)

174.8 (7)

230.1 (9 1/8)

313.7 (12 3/8)

134.7 (5 3/8)

102.7 (4 1/8)

78.9 (3 1/8)

unit: mm (inches)

68.9 (2 3/4)

9

Distributed by

MSD2006-591(10288V1)MAT0006

© 2007 Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Ltd. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
Features, design, and specifications are subject to change without notice.
All non-metric weights and measurements are approximate.
Sony, DVCAM, Memory Stick Duo, DigitalMaster, Enhanced Imaging
Processor, SteadyShot, HD Codec Engine, i.LINK, InfoLITHIUM, Remote
Commander, Shot Transition, Cinematone Gamma, Cineframe, and Night
Shot are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
HDV and the HDV logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor
Company of Japan, Limited.
Vario-Sonnar T*is a trademark of Carl Zeiss AG.
Sony is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.

Printed in Hong Kong

10