SONY HVR-M15 User Manual

Digital HD Videocassette Recorder

3-878-917-11 (1)

Operating Instructions

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

HVR-M15AU/M15AN/M15AE/ M15AP

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Overview

Features...................................................................................................... 4

Location and Function of Parts................................................................ 6

Front Panel ....................................................................................................... 6

Rear Panel ...................................................................................................... 12

Supplied Remote Commander ....................................................................... 16

Displaying Various Data..........................................................................18

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Notes on Power Supply and Video Cassettes ......................................20

Preparing the Power Supply........................................................................... 21

Inserting/Ejecting Cassettes ........................................................................... 21

Notes on Playback/Recording........................................................................ 22

Installing the Unit Vertically.......................................................................... 23

Recording Format and Input/Output Signals........................................24

Major Differences among HDV1080i, DVCAM, and DV Formats.............. 24

Input/Output Signals in EE Mode.................................................................. 25

Recording Input Signals and Recording Formats .......................................... 26

Playback Tape Format and Output Signals.................................................... 26

Settings for Output Signals from Each Jack .................................................. 27

Playback ...................................................................................................29

Connections for Playback .............................................................................. 29

Settings for Playback ..................................................................................... 31

Playback Procedures ...................................................................................... 31

Playback Functions ........................................................................................ 32

Auto Repeat.................................................................................................... 35

Using the Unit as a Videocassette Recorder ........................................36

Connections for Recording ............................................................................ 36

Settings for Recording ................................................................................... 38

Recording Procedures .................................................................................... 40

Recording Functions ...................................................................................... 40

Chapter 3 Dubbing/Editing

Dubbing to Other Equipment..................................................................41

Connections for Dubbing ............................................................................... 41

Dubbing Procedures....................................................................................... 44

Editing (Connecting a Computer) .......................................................... 45

Connecting the Unit to a Computer ............................................................... 45

Preparations.................................................................................................... 46

2 Table of Contents

Chapter 4 Adjusting and Setting Through Menus

Operating Menus .....................................................................................48

Menu Structure............................................................................................... 49

Menu Contents ............................................................................................... 50

Chapter 5 Maintenance

Troubleshooting ......................................................................................59

Warning Indicators and Messages.........................................................65

Notes on Use............................................................................................ 67

Notes on the Videocassette Recorder............................................................. 67

Cleaning of the Video Heads ......................................................................... 67

Notes on the Video Cassettes......................................................................... 68

About Moisture Condensation ....................................................................... 69

Digital Hours Meter ....................................................................................... 70

About the Built-in Rechargeable Battery....................................................... 70

Using your Videocassette Recorder abroad ................................................... 70

Notes on the License...................................................................................... 70

Appendix

Notes on Dubbing.................................................................................... 71

About i.LINK............................................................................................. 74

Specifications ..........................................................................................75

Index .........................................................................................................78

Submenu Index........................................................................................ 80

Table of Contents 3

Features

Overview

Chapter

The HVR-M15AU/M15AN/M15AE/M15AP is a digital HD videocassette recorder supporting the HDV and DVCAM/DV formats. The unit produces stable, superior picture quality using digital processing and by separating image signals into color difference signals and a luminance signal (component video). The main features of the unit are described below.

HDV/DVCAM/DV format

The unit can perform HDV/DVCAM/DV recording and playback on a DVCAM format or DV format video cassette.

• HDV format: The unit can perform HDV (High-

Definition Digital Video) recording and playback. The compression system of the HDV format is the MPEG2 system adopted in high-definition broadcasting and the Blu-ray Disc System. The unit adopts the 1080 scanning lines (interlaced 1080/60i, 1080/50i, progressive 1080/24p, 1080/30p and 1080/25p) format of the HDV specifications. The recording bit rate is approximately 25 Mbps. The unit is equipped with i.LINK digital interfaces, and can be digitally connected with televisions or computers which are compatible with the interfaces.

• DVCAM/DV format: DVCAM is based on the

consumer DV format, which uses the 4:1:1 component digital format (60i) or the 4:2:0 format (50i), and provides a 1/4-inch digital recording format for professional use. The unit provides both DVCAM format recording/playback and DV format in SP mode recording/playback.

For details, see “Major Differences among HDV1080i, DVCAM, and DV Formats” on page 24.

Compatible with both interlaced and progressive HDV recording/playback

The unit can record or play back HDV 1080/60i, 1080/ 24p, 1080/30p, 1080/50i and 1080/25p videos. Also, the unit can play back HDV 720/30p, 720/24p and 720/25p videos. (For recording, signals can be input only via an i.LINK digital interface.)

Here for the unit, 60i indicates field frequency 59.94 Hz. 24p and 30p indicate frame frequency 23.98 Hz and 29.97 Hz, respectively.

High definition down convert function

When you want to play back a tape recorded in HDV format, you can down convert images to output them. This function allows you to preview recorded-images on a monitor which is not compatible with the HighDefinition (HD) format. Also, you can select an aspect ratio from SQUEEZE, LETTER BOX (except HDV/ DV jack output), or EDGE CROP.

4 Chapter 1 Overview

Multiple input/output interfaces

The following jacks are provided with the unit and enable connection with various devices:

• Input jacks: S VIDEO IN jack, VIDEO IN jack and

AUDIO IN jacks

• Output jacks: COMPONENT OUT jacks, S VIDEO

OUT jack, VIDEO OUT jack and AUDIO OUT jacks

• Input-output jack: HDV/DV jack

JOG AUDIO function

If you use the optional DSRM-10 remote control unit (not supplied), audio can be monitored at various playback speeds in jog/shuttle mode. (Jog audio cannot be output when the tape is recorded in HDV format.)

Screen Language Setting

You can select the language to be used for screen displays. The default language setting is English.

See “LANGUAGE” in the “OTHERS” menu on page 57 for details on how to change the screen language.

........................................................................................

, , and are trademarks of Sony

Corporation.

is a trademark of Sony Corporation and

Victor Company of Japan, Ltd.

All other product names mentioned here may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. “™” and “®” are not mentioned in every case in this manual.

Chapter 1 Overview

Compact size allowing vertical installation

The compact size of the unit allows installation in a vertical position and saves space. During non-linear editing, you can install the unit in a vertical position next to the computer and save working space.

Easy maintenance functions

• Self-diagnostics/alarm functions:

The system automatically detects an invalid operation, bad connection, or a malfunction, and outputs a description, a cause, and a recovery method to the COMPONENT OUT jacks, S VIDEO OUT jack and VIDEO OUT jack.

• Digital hours meter:

A digital hours meter counts four types of time data— operating time, drum rotation time, tape running time, and tape threading/unthreading. The digital hours data is indicated on the menu.

Chapter 1 Overview 5

Location and Function of Parts

Front Panel

Chapter 1 Overview

2 Indicator section

(see page 10)

1 Remote sensor

2 DISPLAY OUTPUT

switch

3 q (cassette)

indicator

4 ON/STANDBY

switch and lamp

5 INPUT SELECT switch

a Remote sensor

Note

In addition to the Remote Commander supplied with the unit, the unit accepts signals from any Sony Remote Commander whose command mode is set to VTR4. To disable control from a Remote Commander, set [COMMANDER] in the [OTHERS] menu to [CONTROL S].

b DISPLAY OUTPUT switch

Selects the destination for the text data to be superimposed via output jacks.

OFF: Does not output text data to superimpose. S VIDEO/VIDEO:

Superimposes text data to S VIDEO OUT jack and VIDEO OUT jack.

ALL: Superimposes text data to COMPONENT OUT

jacks, S VIDEO OUT jack and VIDEO OUT jack.

For details on text data, see “Displaying Various Data” on page 18.

6 Cassette Lid

7 MENU button

8 J/j/K/k buttons

9 EXEC button

0 CAUTION indicator

1 Tape transport control

section (see page 8)

c q (cassette) indicator

Lights when a digital video cassette is loaded. Does not light up when there is no cassette loaded in the unit. This indicator blinks while a cassette is being ejected.

For details, see “Inserting/Ejecting Cassettes” on page 21.

d ON/STANDBY switch and lamp

Press this switch to turn the unit on, and the ON/ STANDBY lamp lights up in green. When you press this switch again, the unit goes into the standby mode and the lamp lights up in red.

e INPUT SELECT switch

Use this button to select the signal input jack from the

HDV/DV jack, S VIDEO IN jack, and VIDEO IN

jack.

HDV/DV: Inputs a signal from the HDV/DV jack. SVIDEO:Inputs a signal from the S VIDEO IN jack. VIDEO: Inputs a signal from the VIDEO IN jack.

6 Chapter 1 Overview

Notes

• Do not change the setting of this switch while recording is in progress, or it will cause noise to be added to images and sounds. Also, the part of the tape where the change of setting is applied will not be recorded properly. Also, the time code may be recorded discontinuously.

• If you change the setting of this switch while recording is in progress, the output signal via the HDV/DV jack may be interrupted. Also, the unit may detect signals, such as a copyright information signal, incorrectly.

• When a signal is input via the HDV/DV jack, the settings of the menus listed below are unavailable. – 60i/50i SEL – AUDIO MODE –AUDIO LOCK – AUDIO AGC – AUDIO REC LV

f Cassette Lid

Open this lid to insert or eject a cassette.

For details on cassettes that can be used, see “Notes on Power Supply and Video Cassettes” on page 20. For details of inserting or ejecting a cassette, see “Inserting/ Ejecting Cassettes” on page 21.

Chapter 1 Overview

g MENU button

Press this button to display the menu list on screen.

For details on the menus, see “Operating Menus” on page

48.

h J/j/K/k buttons

Use these buttons in making menu settings and other settings.

i EXEC (execute) button

Use this button in menu settings.

j CAUTION indicator

Blinks when an error occurs.

For details on cautions, see “Self-diagnosis display/Warning Indicators” on page 65.

Chapter 1 Overview 7

Location and Function of Parts

1 Tape transport control section

Chapter 1 Overview

6 REW (rewind) button

7 STOP button

a Tape transport indicator

b REC (record) button

When you press and hold this button, then press the PLAY button, each indicator lights and recording starts. If you press this button while the tape is stopped, you can check EE picture and audio signals for a short time. When the HDV/DV jack is selected, if [HDV/DV IN TC] in the [TC/UB SET] menu is set to [EXTERNAL], you can also check the EE time code signals. Press the STOP button to end the check.

For details, see “EE/PB SEL” in the “IN/OUT REC” menu on page 52. For details on time codes, see “TC/UB SET” on page 56.

Notes

• The unit does not have an LP recording mode for the consumer DV format. Only SP recording mode is available.

• To set the unit to recording pause mode with the DSRM-10 remote control unit (not supplied), press the PAUSE button while holding down the PLAY button to set the unit to the playback pause mode, then press the REC button on the DSRM-10.

5 PLAY button

1 Tape transport indicator

2 REC (record) button

3 PAUSE button

4 FF (fast forward) button

• When the recording mode is set to HDV format, it may take a few seconds to start recording. During this time, the REC indicator blinks.

c PAUSE button

Press this button to set the unit to pause mode. The indicator lights during recording or playing. Press this button again to resume the operation.

d FF (fast forward) button

When you press this button, the indicator lights and the tape is fast forwarded. During fast forward, the picture does not appear on the monitor. (You can see the picture as it is seen in EE mode

during fast forward.) To locate a scene while monitoring the picture, press and hold this button during fast forward, playback or in the playback pause mode (picture search).

Notes

• If you set [EE/PB SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu to

[PB], EE picture and EE audio signals are not output (page 52).

........................................................................................................................................................................................

1) “EE” stands for “Electric to Electric.” In EE mode, the video and audio signals input to the VCR’s recording circuitry do not pass through any magnetic conversion circuits but are output via electric circuits only. This mode is used to check the input signals and adjust input levels. The pictures output in EE mode are referred to as EE pictures.

8 Chapter 1 Overview

• If you set [FF/REW SPEED] in the [VTR SET] menu

to [SHUTTLEMAX], the picture is played back during fast forward.

For details on running speed with [SHUTTLEMAX], see “FF/REW SPEED” in “VTR SET menu” on page 55.

e PLAY button

When you press this button, the indicator lights and playback begins. If you press this button while holding down the REW button during stop, the tape is rewound to its beginning and starts playing automatically (during rewind, the REW indicator lights and the PLAY indicator blinks).

Notes

• When the unit is playing back a part of the tape where

the recording format has been changed to HDV format, DVCAM format, or DV format, or between 60i system (including 24p and 30p) and 50i system (including 25p), the picture and sound may be distorted.

• The unit cannot play back a tape recorded in the LP

recording mode of the consumer DV format.

Note

If you set [EE/PB SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu to [PB], EE picture and EE audio signals are not output during stop (page 52).

Chapter 1 Overview

f REW (rewind) button

When you press this button, the indicator lights and the tape starts rewinding. During rewind, the picture does not appear on the monitor. (You can see the picture as it is seen in EE mode during rewind.) To locate a scene while monitoring the picture, hold this button down during rewind, playback or in the playback pause mode. If you press the PLAY button while holding down this button during stop, the tape is rewound to its beginning and starts playing automatically. (During rewind, the REW indicator lights and the PLAY indicator blinks.)

Notes

• If you set [EE/PB SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu to

[PB], EE picture and EE audio signals are not output (page 52).

• If you set [FF/REW SPEED] in the [VTR SET] menu

to [SHUTTLEMAX], the picture is played back during rewind.

For details on running speed with [SHUTTLEMAX], see “FF/REW SPEED” in “VTR SET menu” on page 55.

g STOP button

Press this button to stop the tape transport operation completely

Chapter 1 Overview 9

Location and Function of Parts

2 Indicator section

Chapter 1 Overview

4 60i indicator

3 DV indicator

2 DVCAM indicator

1 HDV indicator

6 24p indicator

5 30p indicator

a HDV indicator

Lights when the unit is in either of the following operating states.

• When a tape recorded in HDV format is being played

back.

• When [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu is

set to [AUTO] and HDV signals are being input from the HDV/DV jack.

• When [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu is

set to [HDV].

b DVCAM indicator

Lights when the unit is in either of the following operating states.

• When a tape recorded in DVCAM format is being

played back.

• When the following four conditions are met:

– When [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [AUTO].

– When [ REC MODE] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [DVCAM].

– When DV or DVCAM signals are being input from

any of the input jacks.

– During recording or in EE mode.

• When the following three conditions are met:

– When [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [DV].

– When [ REC MODE] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [DVCAM].

– During recording or in EE mode.

7 50i indicator

8 25p indicator

9 HDV-i.LINK indicator

0 DVCAM-i.LINK indicator

qa DV-i.LINK indicator

c DV indicator

Lights when the unit is in either of the following operating states.

• When a tape recorded in DV format (SP mode only) is being played back.

• When the following four conditions are met: – When [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [AUTO].

– When [ REC MODE] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [DV].

– When DV or DVCAM signals are being input from

any of the input jacks.

– During recording or in EE mode.

• When the following three conditions are met: – When [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [DV].

– When [ REC MODE] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu

is set to [DV].

– During recording or in EE mode.

d 60i indicator

Lights when the unit is in one of the following operating states.

• During recording or in EE mode when [60i/50i SEL] in the [OTHERS] menu is set to [60i].

• When1080/60i signals or NTSC signals are input from the HDV/DV jack.

• When a tape that has 1080/60i signals or NTSC signals is being played back.

10 Chapter 1 Overview

e 30p indicator

Lights when the unit is in either of the following operating states.

• When a tape recorded in 1080/30p format or 720/30p format is being played back.

• When 1080/30p signals are input from the HDV/DV jack.

f 24p indicator

Lights when the unit is in either of the following operating states.

• When a tape recorded in 1080/24p format or 720/24p format is being played back.

• When 1080/24p signals are input from the HDV/DV jack.

g 50i indicator

Lights when the unit is in one of the following operating states.

• During recording or in EE mode when [60i/50i SEL] in the [OTHERS] menu is set to [50i].

• When 1080/50i signals, or PAL signals are input from the HDV/DV jack.

• When a tape that has 1080/50i signals or PAL signals is being played back.

Chapter 1 Overview

h 25p indicator

Lights when the unit is in either of the following operating states.

• When a tape recorded in 1080/25p format or 720/25p format is being played back.

• When 1080/25p signals are input from the HDV/DV jack.

i HDV-i.LINK indicator

Lights when HDV signals are input/output through the i.LINK interface.

j DVCAM-i.LINK indicator

Lights when DVCAM signals are input/output through the i.LINK interface.

k DV-i.LINK indicator

Lights when DV signals are input/output through the i.LINK interface.

Chapter 1 Overview 11

Location and Function of Parts

Rear Panel

Chapter 1 Overview

1 S VIDEO jacks

2 VIDEO jacks

3 AUDIO jacks

4 LANC jack

5 RESET button

a S VIDEO jacks

To connect a device equipped with S video jacks, use the S VIDEO jacks on the unit. If you use the S VIDEO jacks, you can input/output high-quality video with less signal quality deterioration than if connected to the standard VIDEO jack. When the DISPLAY OUTPUT switch on the front panel is set to S VIDEO/VIDEO or ALL, text data such as the time code, menus, and alarm messages are superimposed on an external monitor connected to the S VIDEO OUT jack (page 18).

For details on the output of the S VIDEO jacks, see “Notes on all video output jacks” on page 14.

b VIDEO jacks

Use these jacks to input and output analog video signals. Text data is superimposed on a monitor in the same way as with an S VIDEO jack connection (page 18).

For details on the output of the VIDEO jacks, see “Notes on all video output jacks” on page 14.

c AUDIO jacks

Use these jacks to input and output analog audio signals. When [AUDIO MODE] in the [AUDIO SET] menu is set to [FS32K], sounds will be recorded on channels 1 and 2.

6 COMPONENT OUT jacks

7 DC IN jack

8 HDV/DV jack

9 CONTROL S jack

Notes

• When the audio mode is 32 kHz (4-channel), you can set [AUDIO MIX] in the [AUDIO SET] menu to select the audio signals to be output (page 54). When you select [MIX], the audio output level becomes 50% (–6 dB) of the original audio levels on each channel.

• If you input a sound at a level that exceeds the acceptable range, the recorded sound is distorted.

For details on the available volume levels, see “Specifications” on page 75.

d LANC jack

Use this jack when controlling the tape transport operation of the unit using a device that has a LANC

jack.

Notes

• The LANC jack on the unit has only LANC-S functions. The unit has no LANC-M functions. A device that is set to LANC-S mode cannot be connected to the unit. Either the unit or the other device may not operate properly.

• When using the unit as a player, set LANC mode on the recorder to M. A VCR that does not have an M/S switching function cannot be used to operate the unit.

.......................................................................................................................................................................................

1) LANC (Local Application Control bus system): Bidirectional interface used to control a consumer VCR

12 Chapter 1 Overview

• When the device to be connected to the unit has a LANC-M function to switch between SHUTTLE A/B, select SHUTTLE A for an HDV-formatted tape, and SHUTTLE B for a DVCAM/DV (SP)-formatted tape.

• A LANC connection transmits command signals for playback, stop, pause playback, as well as the time code, tape counter, and data status of the unit.

• Jacks labeled CONTROL L have the same function as LANC jacks.

• There are some limitations when you edit an HDVformatted tape.

Refer to the “Notes” in “Editing (Connecting a Computer)” on page 45.

e RESET button

If you press this button with the tip of a ballpoint pen or similar tool, the following settings are initialized. – [CLOCK SET] (page 58) and [60i/50i SEL] (page 58)

in the [OTHERS] menu.

– The settings on the unit other than the menu settings.

f COMPONENT OUT jacks

Use these jacks to output component signals. To connect a device equipped component video input connectors, use the COMPONENT OUT jacks on the unit. If you use the COMPONENT OUT jacks, you can output high-quality video with less signal quality deterioration than if you use the S VIDEO jacks. You can set the output video format by using [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu. When the DISPLAY OUTPUT switch is set to ALL, text data such as time code, menu, and alarm messages are superimposed on a monitor connected using the COMPONENT OUT jacks (page 18).

Notes

• When you change the video format setting of [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu, the video signal output from the S VIDEO OUT jack, VIDEO OUT jack, or HDV/ DV jack may be distorted for a moment.

• When you play back a tape in DVCAM/DV format and while an EE picture in NTSC/PAL is displayed, either the 480i resolution or the 576i resolution is output, regardless of the setting of [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu.

• When [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/ OUT REC] menu is set to either [1080i/480i] or [1080i/576i], 1080/24p and 1080/30p video signals are converted to 1080/60i and 1080/25p video signals are to 1080/50i, and output.

• When you play back an HDV-formatted tape with copyright protected signals or input HDV signals with copyright protection to the HDV/DV jack, pictures may be output in either 480i (NTSC) or 576i (PAL) format, regardless of the setting of [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu.

• The output level of the COMPONENT OUT jacks is as follows: Output at 480i (NTSC) With [BETACAM] selected in [480i LEVEL] of the [IN/OUT REC] menu

Y: 1.0 Vp-p (with 0.286 Vp-p sync negative, output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced) Pb/Cb/B-Y, Pr/Cr/R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p (output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced)

(75% color bars with 7.5 IRE setup) With [SMPTE] selected in [480i LEVEL] of the [IN/ OUT REC] menu

Y: 1.0 Vp-p

(with 0.3 Vp-p sync negative,

output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced)

Pb/Cb/B-Y, Pr/Cr/R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p

(output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced)

(100% color bars with no setup) Output with other settings

Y: 1.0 Vp-p

(output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced)

Pb/Cb/B-Y, Pr/Cr/R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p

(output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced)

(100% color bars with no setup)

480i/480p:

Y: with 0.3 Vp-p sync negative

1080i/720p:

Y/Pb/Pr: with 0.6 Vp-p 3-level sync

g DC IN jack

Connect to the AC outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor.

Chapter 1 Overview

(Continued)

Chapter 1 Overview 13

Location and Function of Parts

h HDV/DV jack (6-pin) Use this jack to input/output digital signals that comply with the i.LINK standard. Use this jack when a device connected to the unit has an i.LINK jack. If you connect the unit and another device using the HDV/DV jack,

Chapter 1 Overview

you can minimize deterioration of picture quality during recording, dubbing, or capturing still pictures, all by means of digital signals processing.

For details, refer to the instruction manual of the external device.

Notes

• When you connect a computer and the unit with an i.LINK cable, check the direction of the jack. If you forcibly insert the jack, the terminal may be damaged or cause the unit to malfunction.

• This jack is only compatible with HDV (1080i)/ DVCAM/DV signals.

For details, see “About i.LINK” on page 74.

• If the unit is connected to a device equipped with an i.LINK jack, when you intend to disconnect or reconnect the i.LINK cable, turn off the device and pull out the plug of its power cord from the AC outlet beforehand. If you connect or disconnect the i.LINK cable while the device is connected to the AC outlet, high-voltage current (8 to 40 V) is output from the i.LINK jack of the device to the unit. This may cause a malfunction.

• Even though the HDV/DV jack of the unit is a 6-pin type, no power is supplied.

For details on each setting when HDV/DV signals are input, see “HDV/DV SEL” (page 50).

• When you change the video format setting of [COMPONENT] in [VIDEO OUT] of the [IN/OUT REC] menu, the video signal output from the S VIDEO OUT jack, the VIDEO OUT jack, or the HDV/DV jack may be distorted.

For details on the output of the HDV/DV jack, see “Notes on all video output jacks” (page 14).

i CONTROL S jack

Connect this jack to a DSRM-10 remote control unit (not supplied) to operate the unit. You can also use a DSRM-20 (no longer manufactured: not supplied).

Note

Notes on all video output jacks

• When you change the video format setting of [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu, the video signals output from S VIDEO OUT jack, VIDEO OUT jack, or HDV/DV jack may be distorted.

• The unit is only compatible with standard video signals. If you input the types of video signals shown below, recorded picture and sound may be distorted. – Signals from some home game machines – Blue background screen or gray background screen

images from a consumer VCR

– Pictures played at a speed other than normal by a

VCR that does not have TBC (Time Base Corrector) – Video signals in which the sync signals are distorted – Signals from a defective cassette (tape or recording

condition is bad) played by an analog VCR that does

not have TBC

• When DVCAM/DV signals which are input from the HDV/DV jack, or video signals which are from the

VIDEO IN jacks or S VIDEO IN jacks, are output to each analog output jack, the distortion of the video signals occurs at the bottom of the TV monitor display due to the jitter. Depending on the display area of the TV monitor you have, the distortion of the picture may appear at the bottom of the screen. This is not a malfunction. Pictures may be distorted or not be displayed depending on the TV monitors. This will not appear while recording with the unit. Be aware of these phenomena when you connect other recording device via the analog jacks of the unit.

• Depending on the TV monitor being connected, the

screen may blink or be distorted when DVCAM/DV signals which are input from the HDV/DV jack, or video signals which are from the VIDEO IN jacks or S VIDEO IN jacks, are output to the VIDEO OUT jacks. Be aware of these phenomena when you connect other recording device to these jacks. This will not appear while recording with the unit.

• During recording or in EE mode, the subcarrier of the

color signal to be output from the unit is not synchronized with the horizontal sync signal. The color of the picture or the horizontal position of the picture may be distorted depending on the type of monitor connected to the unit.

When you use a CONTROL S device, set [COMMANDER] in the [OTHERS] menu to [CONTROL S].

14 Chapter 1 Overview

• To output video signals to the VIDEO, S VIDEO, or COMPONENT OUT jacks without text data, set the DISPLAY OUTPUT switch to OFF, or press the DATA CODE or SEARCH SELECT button on the remote commander.

Chapter 1 Overview

Chapter 1 Overview 15

Location and Function of Parts

Supplied Remote Commander

Chapter 1 Overview

1 EJECT button

2 SEARCH SELECT

buttons

3 Buttons for playing at

various speeds

4 MENU button 5 J/j/K/k button 6 EXEC button 7 REC button 8 REW button

9 PLAY button

a Z EJECT button

b SEARCH SELECT buttons

Press these buttons to search for scenes using the search function.

For details on the search function, see “Searching using the search function” on page 34.

ql 1 button

qk END SEARCH button

qj INDEX MARK button

qh SHUTTLE MAX button qg REW&PLAY button

qf COUNTER SELECT button qd DATA CODE button qs PAUSE button qa STOP button

q; FF button

h REW (rewind) button

i PLAY button

j FF (fast forward) button

k STOP button

c Buttons for playing at various speeds

You can play back a tape at normal speed or at a speed other than normal with these buttons.

For details, see “Playing at various speeds” on page 33.

d MENU button

Press this button to display the menu on the screen.

For details on the menu, see “Operating Menus” on page 48.

e J/j/K/k button

Press these buttons to operate the cursor on the menu screen or to move the display position of the counter.

f EXEC (execute) button

Press this button to input the value set on various menu setting screens.

g REC (record) buttons

When you press both these buttons at the same time, the REC indicator and the PLAY indicator on the front panel light and recording begins.

l PAUSE button

m DATA CODE button

Press this button to display the data codes (recording date/time).

For details on data codes, see “Displaying information (data codes) recorded on a tape” on page 32.

n COUNTER SELECT button

This button is not available for the unit.

o REW&PLAY (rewind and play) button

Press this button to rewind the tape to its beginning and start playing automatically. (During rewind, the REW indicator lights and the PLAY indicator blinks on the unit.)

p SHUTTLE MAX button

During tape playback, press this button to play back the video at the maximum speed.

16 Chapter 1 Overview

q INDEX MARK button

Press this button during recording to mark an index.

For details on indexes, see “Marking an index” on page 40.

r END SEARCH button

Press this button to play back the end of the last recorded part for only 5 seconds and stop automatically. Once you eject the video cassette, this function does not operate.

s 1 (on/standby) button

Notes

• The command mode of the supplied Remote Commander is set to VTR4. You cannot change the command mode setting.

• Set [COMMANDER] in the [OTHERS] menu to [WIRELESS] to enable the Remote Commander to control the unit (page 57).

• In addition to the Remote Commander supplied with the unit, the unit accepts signals from any Sony Remote Commander with a command mode set to VTR4. To disable control from Remote Commander, set [COMMANDER] in the [OTHERS] menu to [CONTROL S].

Before using Remote Commander

Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander.

Insulation sheet

To change the battery of the Remote Commander

While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail into the slit to pull out the battery case.

Place a new battery with the + side facing up.

Insert the battery case back into the Remote Commander until it clicks.

Tab

Note on batteries

When the lithium battery becomes weak, the operating distance of the Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

Chapter 1 Overview

WARNING

Battery may explode or leak if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.

Caution

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

Chapter 1 Overview 17

Displaying Various Data

The unit can display various superimposed text data on the built-in LCD monitor, and also on an external monitor connected to the unit. When external monitors are connected to the unit, you can select the destination of the text data to be displayed using the DISPLAY

Chapter 1 Overview

OUTPUT switch.

In this operation manual, the menu screen, etc., is displayed in English. You can change the desired language with the screen language setting.

For details, see “LANGUAGE” in the “OTHERS” menu on page 57.

Menu screen

Press the MENU button to display the menu screen.

For details on the menus, see “Chapter 4 Adjusting and Setting Through Menus” on page 48.

d HVR-DR60/HVR-MRC1 connection indicator

[HDD] is displayed while an HVR-DR60 is connected using the HDV/DV jack. When an HVR-MRC1 is connected, [CF] is displayed.

e Alarm indicator

Displays an alarm indicator.

For details on alarm indicators, see “Warning Indicators and Messages” on page 65.

f x.v.Color indicator

Displays an x.v.Color indicator while pictures recorded in x.v.Color are played back.

For details on x.v.Color, see “Playback with x.v.Color output” on page 23.

g Tape transport mode indicator

Displays the tape transport mode.

h Time code indicator

In the drop frame mode, a period is displayed between the minutes and seconds (i.e., 00:12.58:00).

Data display screen

You can confirm important information for normal recording or playback, such as time code or remaining tape time, on the screen. You cannot specify the items of information to be displayed.

2 3

4 5

a Format indicator

[HDV1080i], [HDV720p], [DVCAM], or [DV SP] are displayed.

b 60i/24p/30p/50i/25p indicator

7 8

9 0

qa,qs qd

Note

When you playback a tape without a time code or with a time code recorded in different formats, the time code cannot be displayed correctly.

i Remaining tape time indicator

Displays the remaining tape time.

For details, see “ REMAINING” in the “DISPLAY SET” menu on page 53.

Notes

• The remaining tape time displayed is an estimated time.

• When you insert a cassette of which the tape has been rewound to the beginning, this indicator does not show the remaining tape time. The remaining tape time is displayed after the tape runs for a while.

j INPUT SELECT indicator

Changes according to the position of the INPUT SELECT switch. ([HDV/DV IN], [S VIDEO IN] or [VIDEO IN])

c Repeat indicator

Displays the repeat indicator when [AUTO REPEAT] in the [VTR SET] menu is set to [ON] (page 55).

18 Chapter 1 Overview

k (Index) indicator

Displays when an index has been marked.

l Search indicator

Displays the search mode when you search for scenes using the Remote Commander.

For details on the search function, see “Searching using the search function” on page 34.

m Audio mode indicator

In the recording mode, displays when you select [FS32K] for [AUDIO MODE] in the [AUDIO SET] menu. When you select [FS48K], is displayed. During playback, displays the audio mode recorded on the tape. During i.LINK input, displays the audio mode of the signal input to the HDV/DV jack.

Notes

• The audio mode will not be displayed when [HDV/DV SEL] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu is set to [HDV].

• Signals other than HDV/DVCAM lock mode will become non-standard audio and / is displayed during playback or when the signal is input from the HDV/DV jack.

Chapter 1 Overview

n Audio level meters

For details of the audio level meter display, see [AUDIO MIX] in the [AUDIO SET] menu (page 54).

Note

If the audio level meter turns red in EE or recording mode, the sound will be distorted because the input level is too high. (However, when the audio mode is set to 32 kHz (4-channel, 12 bits) and [AUDIO MIX] (page

54) is set to [MIX], the audio level meter does not turn

red regardless of the input level.) During playback or while HDV/DV signals are input, the level meter does not turn red.

o Date/time indicator

When you press the DATA CODE button of the Remote Commander or set [DATA CODE] in the [DISPLAY SET] menu to [DATE], you can display the recording date/time.

For details on the date/time indicator, see “Displaying information (data codes) recorded on a tape” on page 32.

Chapter 1 Overview 19

Chapter

Playback and Recording

Notes on Power Supply and Video Cassettes

Usable cassettes

For recording in the HDV/DV format, we recommend you use a DigitalMaster™ cassette such as standard HDV/DVCAM/DV cassette (PHDV-276DM, etc.), or mini HDV/DVCAM/DV cassette (PHDVM-63DM, etc.). For recording in the DVCAM format, we recommend you use a standard DVCAM cassette, Mini-DVCAM cassette, or DigitalMaster™ shown above.

Mini cassette Standard cassette

Cassette compatibility

A DV format cassette tape can be used for HDV. The recording bit rate and recording track pitch on a tape of the HDV1080i system used for the HVR-M15AU/ M15AN/M15AE/M15AP are about 25 Mbps and 10 µm, respectively. The specifications are the same as those of home use DV (SP) tapes. The recording time on an HDV tape is also the same as that of a DV (SP) tape. The track pitch of DVCAM is 15 µm, which is 1.5 times that of HDV/DV (SP). Therefore, the recording time

using DVCAM recording on the same tape will be twothirds of the time available when HDV/DV (SP) recording is used.

Cassette memory

Some mini cassettes and standard cassettes have the cassette memory ( mark). The unit, however, does not support the cassette memory function. However, if you use the DSR-25/45/50 as a recorder, the unit accesses cassette memory only if the recorder is set to [AUTO ].

To save a recording

To prevent accidental erasure of a recording, set the REC/ SAVE switch on the cassette to SAVE. To record on a tape, set the switch to REC.

Set to SAVE

REC/SAVE switch

20 Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Checking the tape for slack

Using a paper clip or a similar object, turn the reel gently in the direction shown by the arrow. If the reel does not move, there is no slack.

Paper clip, etc.

HVR-M15A (rear panel)

To DC IN jack

AC Adaptor (supplied)

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Reel

Preparing the Power Supply

Connect the power cord (supplied) to the AC Adaptor (supplied) and the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to DC IN jack on the unit. Then, connect the power plug to the wall outlet. When you disconnect the power code from the wall outlet, be sure to unplug the power plug from the wall outlet first.

PRECAUTION

Even if this unit is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor.

Notes

• Never short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor with a metal object. A short circuit can damage the unit.

• Use a nearby wall outlet when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet immediately if any malfunction occurs.

• Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.

To a wall outlet

Power cord (supplied)

The [CLOCK SET] screen appears when you turn on the unit for the first time.

For details on [CLOCK SET],see page 58.

Inserting/Ejecting Cassettes

To insert a cassette

Notes

• Do not insert the cassette forcibly. The unit may be damaged.

• Do not eject/load the cassette in a place subject to light. Close the cassette lid when the unit is in use. The internal sensor of the unit may operate incorrectly if too much light falls on the unit.

With the unit powered on, confirm that q indicator is off, and then open the cassette lid.

(Continued)

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording 21

Notes on Power Supply and Video Cassettes

After checking the tape for slack, hold the cassette so that the tape window is facing upward, then insert it into the unit. The tape is inserted into the unit automatically.

Mini cassette (Insert the mini cassette into the center of the

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Tape window facing upward

cassette compartment.)

Standard cassette

To eject the cassette

With the unit powered on, open the cassette lid. Press the EJECT button located at the right side of the cassette compartment.

Notes

• When inserting a cassette, hold the back edge of the cassette in the center and push it until the cassette is inserted deep into the unit. If you hold the ends, the cassette may not be loaded properly.

• If the cassette does not load or is loaded only halfway, eject it once, then insert it again. In such a case, if you insert the cassette forcibly, the cassette may not be loaded properly or malfunctions may occur.

• It takes a few seconds for the unit to recognize the cassette and find the proper location on the tape being loaded.

Close the cassette lid.

The cassette is disengaged and ejected.

Remove the cassette from the unit and close the cassette lid.

Notes on Playback/Recording

No compensation for contents of the recording

Contents of the recording cannot be compensated for if recording or playback is not successful due to a malfunction of the unit, video tape, etc.

Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the copyright laws.

On playback

When the cassette you play back on the unit contains copyright signals, you cannot copy it to a tape in another device connected to your unit.

22 Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

On recording You cannot record software on the unit that contains copyright control signals for copyright protection of software.

[Cannot record due to copyright protection.] appears on the screen of the external monitor if you try to record such software. The unit does not record copyright control signals on the tape when it records.

Limitations caused by differences in format

The unit can record and play back tapes recorded in HDV format (1080/60i, 1080/24p, 1080/30p, 1080/50i and 1080/25p), DVCAM format, or DV format (SP mode). The unit can input/output and record signals via the

HDV/DV jack. The unit can play back pictures recorded in 720/24p, 720/25p or 720/30p of the HDV format, but you cannot input/output these pictures via the HDV/DV jack. The unit cannot input/output, record, or play back a tape recorded in 720/60p or 720/50p of the HDV format, and 480p/576p of the SD format.

For details, see “Major Differences among HDV1080i, DVCAM, and DV Formats” on page 24.

Installing the Unit Vertically

Put the unit into the supplied rack as illustrated below. You can install it either standing on its left side or on its right side.

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Notes

The unit can play back pictures recorded in 720/24p, 720/25p or 720/30p of the HDV format, but the formats of the output pictures have limitations. For details, see page 27.

If a tape contains portions recorded in two or more different formats, the following limitations are applied when you play back the tape with the unit:

• The image may be distorted and noise may occur at the

point where the recording format changes on the tape.

• The tape transport control buttons may be disabled

until the tape speed is stabilized.

Note on playback on other equipment

A tape recorded in HDV format with the unit cannot be played back with devices not compatible with the same format. We recommend confirming the contents of the tape by playing back the tape with the unit before playing it back on another video equipment.

Playback with x.v.Color output

Align the F on the unit with the f on the rack.

Notes

• Be sure to use the supplied rack. Without the rack, the unit may topple over and may be damaged or may cause injury.

• Install the unit on a flat place.

• When inserting a cassette, hold the unit until it is loaded into the unit. Otherwise the cassette may fall out and the tape may be damaged.

For details on inserting a cassette, see “Inserting/Ejecting Cassettes” on page 21.

• The name plate is located on the left side of the unit. You may not see it when using the supplied rack.

The unit can play back pictures recorded in x.v.Color.

• x.v.Color is a brand name that Sony is proposing as a easy-to-remember name for the xvYCC standard.

• The xvYCC standard is an international standard for color space within moving images. The xvYCC standard can reproduce a wider range of colors than the standards used for current broadcasting.

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording 23

Recording Format and Input/Output Signals

Major Differences among HDV1080i, DVCAM, and DV Formats

(This unit and other equipment for professional use may be functionally extended. For details, see the notes below the table.)

Specification HDV1080i

Track pitch 10 µm 15 µm 10 µm

Audio sampling frequency 16 bit: 48 kHz 12 bit: 32 kHz

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Audio recording mode

Time code Drop frame mode

Lock mode Lock mode

(60i/24p/30p only) No user bits

DVCAM DV (SP)

16 bit: 48 kHz

NTSC: SMPTE time code

(DF/NDF, including user bits) PAL: EBU time code

(including user bits)

12 bit: 32 kHz 16 bit: 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz

Unlock mode

Drop frame mode (NTSC only) No user bits

1) The unit cannot record 4-channel sound in HDV format.

2) There are two modes for audio signal recording: Lock mode and Unlock mode. In Lock mode, the sampling frequencies of

audio and video are synchronized. In Unlock mode, adopted by the consumer DV format, the two sampling frequencies are independent. Lock mode maintains high compatibility with higher formats and offers better digital processing and smoother transition than Unlock mode when you edit audio.

3) The unit cannot record in DV format with 16 bit: 32 kHz or 44.1 kHz.

4) The unit has been functionally extended with a function for switching between Lock mode and Unlock mode.

5) The unit has been functionally extended with a function to enable selecting DF/NDF for 60i (including 24p and 30p) with

HDV or DV (SP) format.

6) The unit is not equipped with user bit setting function.

24 Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Input/Output Signals in EE Mode

Select the signal input with the INPUT SELECT switch on the front panel (page 6).

a: Output, —: No output or N/A Output jack

HDV/DV

Input signal Input jack

Input format DVCAM/DV HDV

1080/60i — — a 1080/24p — — a

HDV 1080/30p — — a

Digital signal HDV/DV 1080/50i — — a

1080/25p — — a 720/30p/25p/24p — — — —

DVC A M/DV — — a

Analog signal VIDEO/S VIDEO a — a

1) The format of the picture output from the HDMI OUT jack and COMPONENT OUT jacks can be set in [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT

REC] menu (page 51). For details, see the settings for down conversion (page 27).

2) The signals are down converted and output.

The format of the picture output from the VIDEO OUT jack and the S VIDEO OUT jack can be selected from [SQUEEZE], [LETTER BOX] and [EDGE CROP] in [DOWN CONVERT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu (page 51).

3) When DVCAM/DV signals which are input from the HDV/DV jack, or video signals which are from the VIDEO IN jacks or S VIDEO IN jacks, are output

to each analog output jack, the distortion of the video signals occurs at the bottom of the TV monitor display due to the jitter. Depending on the display area of the TV monitor you have, the distortion of the picture may appear at the bottom of the screen. This is not a malfunction. Pictures may be distorted or not be displayed depending on the TV monitors. This will not appear while recording with the unit. Be aware of these phenomena when you connect other recording device via the analog jacks of the unit.

4) Depending on the TV monitor being connected, the screen may blink or be distorted when DVCAM/DV signals which are input from the HDV/DV jack,

or video signals which are from the VIDEO IN jacks or S VIDEO IN jacks, are output to the VIDEO OUT jacks. Be aware of these phenomena when you connect other recording device to these jacks. This will not appear while recording with the unit.

Output signal format

COMPONENT OUT VIDEO/S VIDEO

a (480i) a (480i) a (480i) a (576i) a (576i)

a a

3) 4)

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

Notes

• HDV 720/30p/25p/24p signals can be played back, but cannot be input/output via the HDV/DV jack on the unit.

• HDV 720/60p, HDV720/50p and SD 480p/576p signals cannot be input/output, recorded, or played back on the unit.

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording 25

Recording Format and Input/Output Signals

Recording Input Signals and Recording Formats

Select the signal input with the INPUT SELECT switch on the front panel (page 6).

a: Recordable, —: Not recordable Recording format

Input signal Input jack

Input format

1080/60i a ——

Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

HDV 1080/30p a ——

Digital signal HDV/DV 1080/50i a ——

Analog signal VIDEO/S VIDEO — aa

Notes

1080/24p a ——

1080/25p a ——

720/30p/25p/24p — — —

DVCAM /DV — aa

HDV DVCAM DV (SP)

• HDV 720/30p/25p/24p signals can be played back, but cannot be input/output via the HDV/DV jack on the unit.

• HDV 720/60p, HDV720/50p and SD 480p/576p signals cannot be input/output, recorded, or played back on the unit.

Playback Tape Format and Output Signals

a: Output, —: No output or N/A Output jacks

HDV/DV

Output signal format

Format of the signals recorded on the tape DVCAM/DV HDV

1080/60i a a a 1080/24p a a a

HDV 1080/30p a a a

1080/50i a a a 1080/25p a a a 720/30p/24p — — a 720/25p — — a

DVCA M / DV ( SP) a — a a

1) The format of the picture output from the COMPONENT OUT jacks can be set in [COMPONENT] of [VIDEO OUT] in the [IN/OUT REC] menu (page 51).

For details, see the settings for down conversion (page 27).

2) The signals are down converted and output.

For details of the format of signals output from each jack, see the settings for down conversion (page 27).

COMPONENT OUT VIDEO/S VIDEO

a (480i) a (480i) a (480i) a (576i) a (576i) a (480i) a (576i)

Notes

• HDV 720/30p/25p/24p signals can be played back but not input/output via the HDV/DV jack on the unit.

• HDV 720/60p, HDV720/50p and SD 480p/576p signals cannot be input/output, recorded, or played back on the unit.

26 Chapter 2 Playback and Recording

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