To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open
the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel only.
For the customers in U.S.A.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15
of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause
harmful interference in which case the user will be required
to correct the interference at his own expense.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not
expressly approved in this manual could void your
authority to operate this equipment.
The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual
must be used with this equipment in order to comply with
the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part
15 of FCC Rules.
For the customers in Europe
This product with the CE marking complies with the EMC
Directive (89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the
European Community.
Compliance with this directive implies conformity to the
following European standards:
• EN55103-2: Electromagnetic Susceptibility (Immunity)
This product is intended for use in the following
Electromagnetic Environment(s):
E1 (residential), E2 (commercial and light industrial), E3
(urban outdoors) and E4 (controlled EMC environment, ex.
TV studio).
Pour les clients européens
Ce produit portant la marque CE est conforme à la
Directive sur la compatibilité électromagnétique (EMC) (89/
336/CEE) émise par la Commission de la Communauté
européenne.
La conformité à cett directive implique la conformité aux
normes européennes suivantes:
Ce produit est prévu pour être utilisé dans les
environnements électromagnétiques suivants:
E1 (résidentiel), E2 (commercial et industrie légère), E3
(urbain extérieur) et E4 (environnement EMC contrôlé ex.
studio de télévision).
Für Kunden in Europa
Dieses Produkt besitzt die CE-Kennzeichnung und erfüllt
die EMV-Direktive (89/336/EEC) der EG-Kommission.
Die Erfüllung dieser Direktive bedeutet Konformität für die
folgenden Europäischen Normen:
Dieses Produkt ist für den Einsatz unter folgenden
elektromagnetischen Bedingungen ausgelegt:
E1 (Wohnbereich), E2 (kommerzieller und in
beschränktem Maße industrieller Bereich), E3
(Stadtbereich im Freien) und E4 (kontrollierter EMVBereich, z.B. Fernsehstudio)
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Overview
1-1 Features .....................................................................................1-1
1-1-1 Camera Features ............................................................... 1-1
1-1-2 VTR Features .................................................................... 1-4
1-2 Example of System Configuration ..........................................1-6
Index .................................................................................................... I-1
Table of Contents4
1-1Features
The HDW-F900 HD Camcorder combines a HD color video camera, of
which the effective picture elements are 1920(H) x 1080(V) and which
uses 2/3-inch FIT1) CCD2) imagers with 2,200,000 picture elements, with
an HDCAM portable videocassette recorder. The camcorder allows you
to perform recording and playback with various formats, covering 50I,
30P, 29.97P, 25P, 24P and 23.98P as well as 60I and 59.94I formats. The
introduction of a new integrated circuit technology (LSI) for processing
HD digital signals improves the image quality even further and
simplifies setup (initialization) operations.
1-1-1 Camera Features
The features of the HDW-F900 camera are described below.
• 2/3-inch FIT CCDs with 2,200,000 picture elements provide a compact
and lightweight unit with excellent image quality.
• Existing 2/3-inch lenses can be used.
• A new integrarted circuit techonolgy of the digital signal processing
has improved picture quality and functionability.
• The camcorder can operate with any one of 8 different formats, 59.94I,
60I, 30P, 29.97P, 50I, 25P, 24P and 23.98P.
• The 12-bit AD converter has greatly improved picture quality.
• An new AD board and optimized signal processing improves the
reproduction of brightest part in P format.
• You can load a user gamma data table created on a personal computer
to the camcorder via a Memory Stick3). This allows the user to change
the gamma settings.
• A setup menu enables you to control features such as status displays,
messages, and markers; to select various types of settings; to toggle
switches; and to operate a Memory Stick.
3) “Memory Stick” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Chapter 1 Overview1-1
• The USER MENU CUSTOMIZE menu allows you to create your own
1
custom menu.
• Five scene files are set in one group. A maximum of 20 groups, that is,
a maximum 100 scene files, can be saved in a Memory Stick.
• You can select a mode that allows the camcorder to output images seen
through a camera to the viewfinder and the MONITOR OUT connector
during playback.
• Blur-free shooting is ensured by a built-in, high-performance electronic
shutter that provides a variety of modes, such as ECS1) mode which
reduces flickering on the monitor screen and S-EVS2) mode which
improves vertical resolution.
• Selectable video gain ensures a noise-free image.
• A simple switch operation enables automatic adjustment of the black
set, black balance, and white balance. Memory functions make it easy
to replicate the white balance setting appropriate for the lighting
conditions.
• Character display functions on the viewfinder indicate switch settings,
automatic black and white balance adjustment, status indications, and
warnings.
• The warning system uses various types of warning indicators and
sounds to inform you of VTR faults, end of tape, low battery, etc.
• The camcorder is equipped with a dual-wheel filter disk for adjusting
the filter setting to the shooting and lighting conditions.
• Override function which makes fine adjustment of the reference value
for brightness of automatic iris control is provided.
• A built-in circuit produces a color bar signal for easy adjustment of the
color monitor.
• The remote control unit controls camera functions and VTR functions.
• Setup data specified by the camera operator, including the various
marker settings, can be stored in the camcorder itself and on a memory
stick as an operator file, and then can be recalled.
2) S-EVS: Super Enhanced Vertical definition System
Chapter 1 Overview1-2
• Setup data specified by video engineers, including the various detail
settings, can be stored in the camcorder itself and on a Memory Stick
as a reference file, and then can be recalled. It is possible to shorten
time for setting with duplicating the stored reference file to the other
cameras through the Memory Stick.
• Correction value to use a lens extender and for each lens can be stored
as a lens file, and then can be recalled. It is possible to shorten time for
adjustment when replacing the lens.
• A high-performance viewfinder is adjustable forward, backward, and
sideways, and has a full range of auxiliary equipment.
1
Chapter 1 Overview1-3
1-1-2 VTR Features
1
The VTR features of this camcorder are described below.
• Use of the HDCAM format allows high performance HD digital
recording and playback while preserving the same ease of use as
conventional camcorder equipment. Also, recording and playback are
allowed in any one of 8 different formats that the camera section
supports.
• The same cassette size (S size) as Digital BETACAM can be used to
achieve the following long recording times:
Approximately 40 minutes at 30 frames
Approximately 48 minutes at 25 frames
Approximately 50 minutes at 24 frames.
• The recording review function, which automatically rewinds and plays
back the last approximately 3 seconds of recording on the tape, enables
you to quickly confirm recorded contents.
• No playback adaptor is needed to see the color playback image on the
monitor screen.
• The 3 times normal speed search function provides quick positioning
of the tape.
• LTC1) and VITC2) recording and LTC playback can be performed.
• Compatible with the Tele-File3) Memory Label system.
By pressing the RET button on the lens while recording, the timecode
valid when you pressed the button is recorded on the MLB-1M-100
memory label (not supplied) attached to the cassette. This is very
helpful for management of the cassette tapes and to improve the
efficiency of the tape editing.
3) Tele-File
The Tele-File system is a non-contact data reading/writing system. It allows a
variety of data to be stored on a 1/2-inch tape label with an non-contact IC
memory.
Chapter 1 Overview1-4
• The built-in time code generator can be synchronized with an external
generator.
• A lithium battery is the back-up power supply for the built-in time code
generator enabling the time code to be held for approximately 5 years
without charging the camcorder power supply.
• Optional long-life battery packs are available.
• Pressing the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button
on the lens ensures recording continuity from the very next frame.
• Two analog audio input channels and the microphone can be recorded
at the same time.
• Connecting the HDCA-901 camera adaptor (not supplied) allows you
to input four audio input channels. Also, the HD-SDI signal can be
output.
1
Chapter 1 Overview1-5
1-2Example of System
1
Configuration
The diagram below shows a typical configuration of the camcorder for
ENG and EFP. In this manual, the HDVF-20A HD Electronic
Viewfinder (not supplied) is use to instruct how to operate the unit.
Viewfinder
Viewfinder-related equipment
Fog-proof filter
(Part No. 1-547-341-11)
BKW-401 Viewfinder
Rotation Bracket
Remote control equipment
HDVF-20A
HD Electronic
Viewfinder
HDVF-C30W
HD Electronic
Viewfinder
RCP-700 Series or
RM-B150 Remote
Control Unit
MSU-700A/750
Master Setup Unit
Video monitor for
color image check
while shooting
Chapter 1 Overview1-6
For more information about the fittings, connections, or use of additional
equipment and accessories, see Chapter 5 as well as the operation manuals for the
connected equipment.
1
Camera adaptor
HDCA-901 for the input of
the audio channels 3 and
4 and the HD-SDI output
Power source
AC power
supply
100V AC
AC-550
AC Adaptor
BP-L60A
Battery Pack
Audio signal source
External microphone
C-74, etc.
CAC-12
Microphone Holder
Audio equipment
WRR-810A / 860A
UHF Portable Tuner
Battery
BC-L100
Battery
Charger
Chapter 1 Overview1-7
1-3Precautions
Use and Storage
1
Do not subject the camcorder to severe shocks
The internal mechanism may be damaged or the body warped.
After use
Always turn off the power.
Before storing the camcorder for a long period
Remove the battery pack.
Use and storage locations
Store in a level, ventilated place. Avoid using or storing the camcorder
in the following places.
• Places subject to temperature extremes
• Very damp places
• Places subject to severe vibration
• Near strong magnetic fields
• In direct sunlight or close to heaters for extended periods
To prevent electromagnetic interference from portable
communications devices
The use of portable telephones and other communications devices near
this unit can result in misoperations and interference with audio and
video signals.
It is recommended that the portable communications devices near this
unit be powered off.
Note on laser beams
Laser beams may damage the CCDs. If you shoot a scene that includes a
laser beam, be careful not to let a laser beam become directed into the
lens of the camera.
Chapter 1 Overview1-8
2-1Power Supply
2
Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
1
2
4
Power supply
1 Battery attachment
Attach a BP-L60A battery pack.
2 DC IN (external power input) connector (XLR type, 4-pin, male)
To operate the HDW-F900 using an AC power supply, connect an AC550 AC Adaptor with the DC output cable supplied with the adaptor.
To use an external battery, connect its DC output cable to the DC IN
connector.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-1
3
(Continued)
3 BREAKER button
If excessive current flows within the unit, the breaker is tripped
automatically to shut off the power supply and protect the equipment.
After performing internal checks or adjustments, use a pointed object
2
such as a pen to press down lightly on this button. If there is no problem,
the power will again be supplied.
4 POWER switch
This switch turns the main power supply on and off.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-2
2-2Accessory Attachments
12
3
4
5
6
7
8
1 Shoulder strap posts
Attach the supplied shoulder strap to these posts.
2 Light shoe
Attach an optional accessory such as a video light to this shoe.
Lens cable clamp
Accessory attachments
2
3 Lens mount (special bayonet mount)
Use this for mounting the lens.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-3
(Continued)
4 Lens locking lever
After inserting the lens in the lens mount, rotate the lens mount ring with
this lever to lock the lens in position.
2
5 Lens mount cap
Remove this cap by pushing up on the lens locking lever. For protection
from dust, always insert this cap when no lens is mounted.
6 Tripod mount
When using the unit on a tripod, attach the supplied tripod adaptor.
7 LENS connector (12-pin)
Fit the lens cable to this connector. Contact your Sony representative for
more information about the lens you are using.
8 Shoulder pad
You can move the shoulder pad forwards or backwards by loosening the
two screws. Do this to ensure the best balance when shooting with the
camcorder on your shoulder.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-4
2-3Audio Functions
1
2
3
Audio functions (1)
1 Microphone
This is a super-cardioid directional microphone with an external power
supply (+48 V) system. You can use it as an interview microphone by
connecting it to an extension cable (not supplied).
2 MIC IN (microphone input) connector (XLR type, 3-pin, female)
The supplied microphone connects to this connector. You can connect a
microphone other than the supplied one as long as it corresponds to an
external power supply system. The connector supplies power (+48 V) to
the microphone.
2
3 MIC/MENU knob
This knob adjusts the audio level of the front microphone. To adjust the
front microphone level, set the DISPLAY switch to ON, then push the
MENU switch to CANCEL. The audio level indication will appear on
the viewfinder screen. Note that you can do this only when the AUDIO
SELECT switches are set to MANUAL and the AUDIO IN switches are
set to FRONT.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-5
(Continued)
2
ADVANCE
PRESET
REGEN
DF
NDF
SHIFT
F-RUN
SET
R-RUN
DIAG
REAL
TIME
ON
OFF
SET
CH-1
CH-2
LEVEL
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
AUTO
MANUAL
AUDIO SELECT
AUDIO IN
FRONT
REAR
CUE IN
MIX
CH-1CH-2
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
010
•
•
•
•
010
Audio functions (2)
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-6
4 LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) (audio channel 1 and channel 2 recording
level) controls
These controls adjust the audio levels of channels 1 and 2 when audio
input is from the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connectors and the AUDIO
SELECT switches are set to MANUAL.
5 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) (audio channel-1 and channel-2
adjustment method select) switches
These switches select the audio level adjustment method for each of
audio channels 1 and 2.
AUTO: Select this setting for automatic adjustment.
MANUAL: Select this setting for manual adjustment.
6 AUDIO IN (CH-1/CH-2) (audio input) switches
These switches select the audio input signals to be recorded for audio
channels 1 and 2.
FRONT: The input signal source is the microphone connected to the
MIC IN connector.
REAR: The input signal source is the audio equipment connected to the
AUDIO IN CH-1/CH2 connectors.
You can also record audio signals in audio channels 3 and 4.
You can select the input signals to be recorded for audio channels 3 and
4 by using the AU REC CH 3/4 item on the VTR SETUP page of the
MAINTENANCE menu.
The following three input signals are available:
1/2 CH: Records the same input signals connected to the AUDIO CH-1/
CH-2 connectors in audio channels 3 and 4..
AUTO: Records inputs signals other than the signals connected to the
AUDIO CH-1/CH-2 connectors, that is signals which are not selected
using the AUDIO IN switches.
This is effective only when the HDCA-901 camera adaptor is turned off,
if connected.
For example: When the CH-1 of the AUDIO IN switch is set to FRONT:
The audio signal input to the AUDIO IN CH-1 connector is recorded in
channel 3.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-7
(Continued)
2
When CH-1 of the AUDIO IN switch is set to REAR:
The signal input to the MIC IN connector is recorded in channel 3.
MUTE: Does not record any input signals in channels 3 and 4.
For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.
2
With the HDCA-901 (not supplied) connected to the camcorder, you can
record separate sounds in audio channels 3 and 4.
7 CUE IN (cue track input) switch
This switch selects the input signal to be recorded on the cue track.
CH-1: CH-1 input signal
MIX: Mixed input signals of CH-1 and CH-2
CH-2: CH-2 input signal
8 AUDIO OUT (audio output) connector (XLR type, 5-pin, male)
This connector outputs the audio signals recorded to audio channels 1
and 2 or audio channels 3 and 4.
The PB AUDIO CH item on the VTR SETUP page of the
MAINTENANCE menu allows you to select the audio signal to be
played back.
For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.
9 AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 (audio channel 1 and channel 2 input)
connectors (XLR type, 3-pin, female) and LINE/MIC/+48 V ON
(line input/microphone input/external power supply +48 V ON)
switches
These are audio input connectors for channels 1 and 2 to which you can
connect audio equipment or a microphone.
The LINE/MIC/+48V ON switches select the audio source of the audio
input signals connected to each of these connectors.
LINE: Line input audio equipment
MIC: Microphone with an internal power supply
+48V ON: Microphone with an external power supply system
0 DC OUT (DC power output) connector
This connector supplies power for a WRR-810A/860A UHF Portable
Tuner (not supplied). Do not connect any equipment other than the UHF
portable tuner.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-8
!£!¡!™
Audio functions (3)
qa ALARM volume control
This control adjusts the speaker or earphone alarm volume. At the
minimum position, no sound can be heard.
MinimumMaximum
ALARM volume control
2
(Continued)
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-9
The internal volume control can be adjusted so that the alarm is audible
even if the ALARLı olume control is at the minimum position.
For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual.
2
qs MONITOR volume control
This control adjusts the speaker or earphone volume for sounds other
than the alarm sound. At the minimum position, no sound can be heard.
MONITOR
CH-1
MIX
CH-2
MinimumMaximum
MONITOR volume control
qd MONITOR (audio channel select) switch
This switch selects the audio channel to be output from the speaker or
earphone.
CH-1: Channel 1 audio
MIX: Mixed sound of channels 1 and 2
CH-2: Channel 2 audio
During playback, the signals of the audio channels selected from the PB
AUDIO CH item on the VTR SETUP page of the MAINTENANCE
manual are output.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-10
Audio functions (4)
!¢
2
qf Built-in speaker
During recording, the speaker can be used for monitoring the E-E
1)
sound, and during playback for monitoring playback sound. The speaker
also sounds alarms to reinforce visual warnings.
If an earphone is plugged into to the EARPHONE jack, the speaker
sound is automatically cut off.
See Section 6-3 “Operation Warnings” (page 6-14) for information about alarms.
The term E-E sound refers to an audio signal that has passed though the
amplifier, but has not been recorded on the tape. In other words, you can directly
monitor the recording input signal, as opposed to the simultaneous playback
(output) signal.
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls 2-11
(Continued)
2
qh
Audio functions (5)
qg EARPHONE jack
You can monitor the E-E sound during recording and playback sound
during playback. Plugging an earphone into the jack automatically cuts
off the built-in speaker, and you hear the alarms about the camcorder's
operation and status through the earphone.
qh Tap for measure hook
This is the hole for the M3 screw (effective screw length: 6mm) located
at the position of the flange focal length. You can use this tap to attach
the hook for a tape measure to measure the distance between the position
of the flange focus and an object. (The effective length of the supplied
screw is 6 mm.)
qg
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls2-12
2-4Shooting and Recording/
Playback Functions
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Shooting and recording/playback functions (1)
1 Viewfinder (When the HDVF-20A (not supplied) is used)
The viewfinder lets you to view the camera image in black and white
while shooting the picture and also see the playback picture from the
VTR. It also displays various warnings and messages related to the
settings or operating conditions of the camcorder, a zebra pattern1), safety
zone marker2), and center marker3).