Sony HVR-S270U User Manual

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

3-280-851-11(1)

Digital HD Video Camera Recorder

Operating Guide

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

http://www.sony.net/

Printed on 70% or more recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)

-free vegetable oil based ink.

Printed in Japan

HVR-S270U/S270N

Read this first

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

Notes on use

Types of cassette you can use in your camcorder

Your camcorder is capable of recording in HDV, DVCAM and DV formats. When recording in HDV/DV format, Sony recommends that you use standard size DV cassettes or mini DV cassettes. When recording in DVCAM format, Sony recommends that you use standard size DVCAM cassettes or mini DVCAM cassettes. Your camcorder does not support the Cassette Memory function (p. 107).

The HDV format

• Digital high-definition (HD) video signals are recorded and played back on a DV format cassette.

• HDV signals are compressed in MPEG2 format, which is adopted in BS (broadcast satellite) digital and terrestrial digital HDTV broadcastings and in Blu-ray disc recorders.

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

You can use any “Memory Stick” that has the following markings.

“Memory Stick Duo” (This size can be used with your camcorder.)

“Memory Stick” (You cannot use it in your camcorder.)

b Notes

• You cannot use any type of memory card except “Memory Stick Duo.”

• “Memory Stick PRO Duo” can be used only with “Memory Stick PRO” compatible equipment.

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

• When using a “Memory Stick Duo” with “Memory Stick” compatible equipment, insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

Using the camcorder

• Do not hold the camcorder by the following part.

Lens hood

LCD panel

About menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens

• A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions.

• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely highprecision technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen and the viewfinder. These points are normal results of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.

Battery pack

Viewfinder

b Notes

• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof or waterproof. See “About handling of your camcorder” (p. 113).

• Do not connect cables to your camcorder with their terminals placed the wrong way. Squeezing the terminals into your camcorder's jacks may damage them or results in a malfunction of your camcorder.

Microphone or Microphone holder

Memory Recording Unit

White, red, blue or green point

Black point

Do not expose your camcorder’s viewfinder, lens, or LCD screen to the sun or strong light source for extended periods.

• Intense light sources, especially the sun will converge on the viewfinder or lens and damage the internal parts of your camcorder. Avoid sunlight or other strong light sources when storing your camcorder. Protect this device by always closing the lens cover or by placing it in its bag when not in use.

On recording

• Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound are recorded without any problems.

Continued ,

Read this first (Continued)

• Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot be provided, even if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc.

• TV color systems differ depending on the countries/regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.

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

• Because of the way that the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out image signals, the subjects passing by the frame rapidly might appear crooked depending on the recording conditions. This phenomenon may be notable in displays having high motion resolution.

On playing back HDV tapes on other devices

A tape recorded in the HDV format cannot be played back on a device that is not compatible with the HDV format. Check the contents of tapes by playing them back on this camcorder prior to playing them back on other devices.

Notes on the icons used in this manual

Features available for the HDV

format only.

Features available for the DVCAM

format only.

Features available for the DV SP

format only.

The function that can be used when

i.LINK cable is connected.

The function that can be assigned to

an ASSIGN button.

About this manual

• The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder used in this manual for illustration purposes are captured using a digital still camera, and therefore may appear different.

• The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen language before using your camcorder if necessary (p. 21).

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

About the Carl Zeiss lens

Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens. Also, the lens for your camcorder is T -coated to suppress unwanted reflections and faithfully reproduce colors. MTF= Modulation Transfer Function. The number value indicates the amount of light from a subject coming into the lens.

Table of Contents

Read this first ...........................................................................................2

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items ..............................................................8

Step 2: Attaching the supplied items ........................................................9

Step 3: Preparing a power supply ..........................................................15

Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly .....17

Step 5: Adjusting the viewfinder and LCD panel ....................................18

Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................20

Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” ..................................22

Recording/Playback

Recording ..............................................................................................25

Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings .............................29

Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons .....................................48

Using the Shot transition ........................................................................51

Marking focal point on the screen (Focus marking) ...............................54

Playback .................................................................................................55

Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder ................................58

Connecting a monitor or a TV ................................................................60

Adjusting the zoom ............................................................................. 29

Adjusting the focus manually.............................................................. 30

Adjusting the exposure ....................................................................... 32

Adjusting to natural color (White balance).......................................... 34

Adjusting the black balance ............................................................... 36

Customizing the picture quality (Picture profile) ................................. 36

Adjusting the volume .......................................................................... 45

Recording an index signal .................................................................. 49

Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review).............. 50

Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording

(End search) ....................................................................................... 50

Playing back the most recently recorded movies

(Last scene review)............................................................................. 50

Changing the screen .......................................................................... 58

Displaying recording data (Data code) .............................................. 58

Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ................. 59

Continued ,

Table of Contents (Continued)

Using the Menu

Using the menu items ........................................................... 62

Menu items ............................................................................................64

(CAMERA SET) menu ....................................................................67

Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (GAIN SETUP/BACK LIGHT/STEADYSHOT, etc.)

(AUDIO SET) menu ........................................................................ 74

Settings for the audio recording (HDV 2CH/4CH/XLR SET, etc.)

(DISPLAY SET) menu ....................................................................76

Display settings of the display and the viewfinder (MARKER/VF B.LIGHT/DISP OUTPUT, etc.)

(IN/OUT REC) menu ......................................................................80

Recording settings, input and output settings (REC FORMAT/HDV PROGRE./VIDEO OUT/EXT REC CTRL, etc.)

(TC/UB SET) menu ....................................................................... 85

(TC PRESET/UB PRESET/TC LINK, etc.)

(MEMORY SET) menu ....................................................................87

Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (ALL ERASE/FORMAT, etc.)

(OTHERS) menu ............................................................................ 88

Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (QUICK REC/BEEP, etc.)

Dubbing/Editing

Recording pictures from a VCR ............................................................92

Copying movies on a tape to a computer ..............................................94

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting .....................................................................................97

Warning indicators and messages .......................................................106

Additional Information

Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................107

Specifications .......................................................................................117

HDV format and recording/playback ................................................ 107

Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats ........................................... 108

About the “Memory Stick” ................................................................. 110

About i.LINK...................................................................................... 111

About x.v.Color ................................................................................. 112

About handling of your camcorder ................................................... 113

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................121

Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder ......................................128

Index .....................................................................................................132

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

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

• A cassette tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” are not included. See pages 2, 107 and 110 for types of cassette tape and “Memory Stick Duo” that you can use on your camcorder.

Carl Zeiss lens (VCL-412BWS) (1) (p. 9)

This lens is pre-mounted.

Memory Recording Unit (HVR-MRC1) (1) (p. 13),

i.LINK Cradle (HVRA-CR1) (1) (p. 14)

Lens hood with lens cover (1) (p. 11)

This lens hood is pre-mounted.

Wind Screen (1), Microphone (ECM-XM1) (1) (p. 11)

Accessory shoe kit (Accessory shoe (1), Accessory shoe plate (1), screws (4)) (p. 121)

Shoulder belt (1) (p. 12)

Lens mount cap (1) (p. 127), Rear lens cap (1) (p. 127)

Test chart for flange focal length adjustment (1) (p. 9)

CD-ROM “Manuals for Digital HD Video Camera Recorder” (1)

Operating Guide (This manual) (1)

Large eyecup (1) (p. 18)

Step 2: Attaching the supplied items

Mounting the lens

Make sure to turn off the POWER switch of your camcorder before mounting the lens. Refer to the manuals provided with the lens for details on the proper handling of the lens.

Mounting the Carl Zeiss lens

1 Push the lens locking lever D up and

remove the lens or the lens mount cap from the lens mount.

2 Align the center slot in the lens mount

with the center pin on the lens, and insert the lens into the mount.

3 While holding the lens in place, push

the lens locking lever D down to mount the lens.

b Notes

• If the lens is not properly locked, it may come off when in use, which may cause a serious problem. Make sure that the lens is securely locked. Sony recommends that you set the lens securing tab C as illustrated.

Mounting non-Carl Zeiss lens

1 Push the lens locking lever D up and

remove the lens or the lens mount cap from the lens mount.

2 Align the center slot in the lens mount

with the center pin on the lens, and insert the lens into the mount.

3 While holding the lens in place, push

the lens locking lever D down to mount the lens.

4 Connect the lens cable to the LENS jack

5 Push the lens cable in the cable holder

b Notes

• You can mount a 1/3" lens directly on your camcorder. You can mount a 1/2" lens via the Fujinon ACM-19 or equivalent. You can mount a 2/3" lens via the Fujinon ACM-17 or equivalent.

• Press the REC START/STOP button on the handle to record when using a lens that does not have a lens cable.

z Tips

• When you attach a non-Carl Zeiss lens, Sony recommends that you adjust the black balance with the iris closed before recording. (p. 36)

Adjusting the flange focal length (for Carl Zeiss lens)

You need to adjust the flange focal length (the distance from the lens flange to the plane of the image along the optical axis) in the following cases.

• After you have changed lenses.

• When you cannot adjust focus properly during zoom in or out.

z Tips

• Your camcorder can store flange focal length data for ten different Carl Zeiss lenses (VCL412BWS/VCL-308BWS). If you remount the lens after you have mounted ten different lenses and adjusted their flange focal length, you need to adjust the flange focal length for the lens even for the Carl Zeiss lens whose flange focal length has been adjusted.

Getting Started

Continued ,

Step 2: Attaching the supplied items (Continued)

ZOOM

SERVOMANUAL

3 Select [MANU ADJUST] in [FLANGE

BACK] of the (CAMERA SET) menu.

4 Select [YES] with the SEL/PUSH

EXEC dial E.

5 Turn the zoom ring D to the telephoto

position.

6 Turn the focus ring C until the subject

comes in focus, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial E.

7 Turn the zoom ring D to the wide angle

Adjusting the flange focal length automatically

1 Set the ND filter B to 1 to adjust

brightness so that the proper video light level is obtained.

2 Place the flange focal length adjustment

test chart A about 2-3 meters (7-10 feet) away. Zoom in and set your camcorder to locate the center of the chart in the center of the screen.

3 Set the ZOOM switch F to SERVO. 4 Select [AUTO ADJUST] in [FLANGE

BACK] of the (CAMERA SET) menu (p. 73).

5 Select [YES] with the SEL/PUSH

EXEC dial E.

The flange focal length adjustment starts and [EXECUTING] appears on the screen. When the adjustment is completed, [Completed.] appears on the screen. If the adjustment fails, [Could not adjust.] appears on the screen. Try the adjustment again.

position.

8 Turn the focus ring C until the subject

comes in focus, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial E.

When the adjustment is completed, [Completed.] appears on the screen. If the adjustment fails, [Could not adjust.] appears on the screen. Try the adjustment again.

z Tips

• You can check the focusing easily if you do the

following before adjusting the focal length. – Set the PEAKING switch to ON (p. 31). – Press the ASSIGN button to which

[EXP.FOCUS] is assigned (p. 48).

Adjusting the flange focal length manually

1 Perform steps 1 and 2 of “Adjusting

the flange focal length automatically.”

2 Set the ZOOM switch F to MANUAL.

Attaching the supplied

REC CH SELECT

2CH MODE

IN1

CH1 CH2

IN2

IN4

IN3

microphone

4 Put the microphone cable into the

cable holder E.

5 Select the channel with the REC

CH SELECT switch F.

See p. 45 for details.

z Tips

• See page 45 for adjusting the volume.

• Set theINPUT1/2/3/4 switch for the jack connected to the microphone to MIC+48V.

Attaching the lens hood with lens cover

PUSH (lens hood release) button

Getting Started

1 Attach the wind screen B to the

supplied microphone A.

2 Place the microphone A in the

microphone holder C with the model name facing upward, close the cover, and shut the clamp.

3 Connect the plug of the

microphone to theAUDIO INPUT1 (L) jack D.

Align the marks on the lens hood to those on the camcorder, and turn the lens hood in the direction of the arrow 2.

To remove the Lens hood with lens cover

Turn the lens hood in the opposite direction to the arrow 2 in the illustration while pressing the PUSH (lens hood release) button.

Continued ,

Step 2: Attaching the supplied items (Continued)

z Tips

• If you attach or remove a 72mm (2 7/8 in.) PL filter or MC protector, remove the lens hood with lens cover.

To open or close the shutter of the Lens hood with lens cover

Move the lens cover lever up or down to open or close the lens cover.

Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to open the lens cover, and move the lever to CLOSE to close the lens cover.

Attaching the shoulder strap

1 Fit one of the clips to a shoulder

strap fitting.

Clip

Pull up the strap to lock the fitting.

2 Fit the other clip to the shoulder

strap fitting on the other side of the grip in the same way.

Attaching Memory Recording Unit

Attach the Memory Recording Unit to your camcorder as illustrated. For details, refer to the Operating Instructions of the Memory Recording Unit on the CD-ROM.

Getting Started

To remove the shoulder strap

Pull in the direction of the arrow while pressing here.

HDV/DV jack (6-pin)

b Notes

• You cannot use the HDV/DV jack when the

Memory Recording Unit is attached to your camcorder.

To remove the Memory Recording Unit

Slide the unit upward while pushing the RELEASE lever of the Memory Recording Unit downward.

Continued ,

Step 2: Attaching the supplied items (Continued)

To attach the Memory Recording Unit to the i.LINK Cradle

Attach the Memory Recording Unit to the i.LINK Cradle as illustrated.

To remove the Memory Recording Unit from the i.LINK Cradle

Slide the unit upward while pushing the RELEASE lever of the Memory Recording Unit downward.

z Tips

• Refer to the operating instructions of HVRMRC1 on the supplied CD-ROM for details on the i.LINK Cradle.

Step 3: Preparing a power supply

The following power supplies are recommended for your camcorder.

• BP-GL65/GL95/L60S/L80S Lithium-ion Battery Pack

• AC power using the AC-550, AC-DN2, AC-DN10 AC Adaptor

LOCK

Battery pack

Align these lines.

Using a battery pack

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

Model name HDV DVCAM (DV)

BP-GL65 240 255

BP-GL95 370 385

BP-L60S 215 230

BP-L80S 295 310

Before use, charge the battery pack with a charger suitable for each battery.

• All times are measured under following conditions.

– when recording on both tape and Memory

Recording Unit (HVR-MRC1) – when using the microphone (ECM-XM1) – when recording continuously – when using the viewfinder with the LCD

panel closed

• For details on charging procedure, refer to the battery charger operation manual.

b Notes

• A warm battery pack may not be able to be fully recharged.

• Set [BATTERY TYPE] to display an accurate battery life (p. 90).

To attach the battery pack

1 Press the battery pack against the back

of the camcorder, aligning the line on the side of the battery pack with the matching line on the camcorder.

Back of the camcorder

2 Slide the battery pack down until its

“LOCK” arrow points at the matching line on the camcorder.

“LOCK” arrow

LOCK

Line on the camcorder

To detach the battery pack

Holding the

LOCK

b Notes

• During recording, playback, and loading/ unloading a tape, be careful never to remove the battery pack.

• Make sure to turn the camcorder off before changing the battery (except when using an AC550 and an AC-DN2/DN10 AC Adaptor together).

button in, pull the battery pack up.

Getting Started

Continued ,

Step 3: Preparing a power supply (Continued)

Using an AC Adaptor

To use the AC-550 AC Adaptor

Connect the camcorder to the AC power supply through an AC-550 AC Adaptor as shown in the following figure, and turn the POWER switch of the AC-550 on.

to an AC power source

L O

C K

DC IN 12V

AC Adaptor AC-550

DC output cable (supplied with the AC-550)

DC OUT

Power switch on

To use the AC-DN10 AC Adaptor

Mount an AC-DN10 on the camcorder in the same way as a battery pack, then connect to the AC power supply. The AC-DN10 can supply up to 100 W of power.

2 Connect an AC-550 AC Adaptor to an

AC power source, then connect it to the DC IN 12V connector of the camcorder (p. 16). The power source switches automatically from the battery pack to the AC Adaptor connected to the DC IN 12V connector.

b Notes

• There may be some noise on the video signal at the time of power source switching.

3 Replace the battery pack with a fully

charged one.

to an AC power source

Avoiding breaks in operation due to an exhausted battery

When the battery pack is becoming exhausted, you can perform battery replacement without causing a break to the camcorder operation by using an AC Adaptor.

1 Turn the AC-550 AC Adaptor on.

Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your

camcorder properly

To record or play, set the CAMERA/VCR switch to respective positions. When you use your camcorder for the first time, [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 20).

L O

C K

POWER switch

CAMERA/VCR switch

1 Set the POWER switch to ON, and

set the CAMERA/VCR switch.

CAMERA

POWER

ON OFF

VCR

2 Hold the camcorder properly.

3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten

the grip belt.

Getting Started

CAMERA: To record pictures. VCR: To play or edit pictures.

b Notes

• The current date and time appears on the LCD screen for a few seconds when you turn on your camcorder once you set the date and time ([CLOCK SET], p. 20).

To turn off the power

Set the POWER switch to OFF.

b Notes

• If warning messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions.

Step 5: Adjusting the viewfinder and LCD panel

The viewfinder

To attach the large eyecup

To attach the supplied large eyecup, stretch it slightly and align it with the eyecup groove in the viewfinder. You can attach the large eyecup facing either the right or left side.

Large eyecup (supplied)

Align the protrusion on the eyecup with the mark on the eye piece.

To adjust the viewfinder position

To adjust the viewfinder left-to-right position, loosen the left-to-right fixing ring. To adjust the front-to-back position, loosen the front-to-back position locking knob.

Viewfinder left-to-right position fixing ring

Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob

Eyepiece

focusing knob PEAKING switch

To adjust the eyepiece focus

First focus the image with the lens, then adjust the viewfinder lens adjustment lever to get the clearest viewfinder image for your eyesight.

To adjust the image detail

Set the PEAKING switch to ON. The detail of the viewfinder image is enhanced, which helps you to focus the image.

To adjust the brightness

MEMORY

DELETE

DISPLAY LCD BRIGHT

INDEX

PLAY

Set the brightness in [VF B.LIGHT] of

(DISPLAY SET) menu (p. 79).

b Notes

• You may see primary colors shimmering in the viewfinder when you move your eye line. This is not a malfunction. The shimmering colors will not be recorded on the recording media.

The LCD panel

Getting Started

2180

1180 degrees (max.)

degrees (max.)

290 degrees (max.)

- LCD BRIGHT + buttons

DISPLAY button

z Tips

• You can use the LCD panel for recording mirror image. You will see a mirror image on the LCD screen but the image will be recorded in a normal image.

To adjust the brightness

Adjust the LCD brightness with the - LCD BRIGHT + buttons. You can turns on and off the LCD backlight by pressing the DISPLAY button.

Step 6: Setting the date and time

CAMERA

VCR

POWER

GAIN

OUTPUT

DCC

WHT BAL

BARS CAM

PRST A B

STATUS

OFF ON

H M L

ON OFF

SEL/PUSH EXEC

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

z Tips

• If you do not use your camcorder for about 3

months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets

discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery and then set the date and time again (p. 115).

L O

C K

1 Push the MENU/STATUS switch

to MENU.

2 Select (OTHERS) by turning

the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

OTHERS RETURN CAMERA PROF. ASSIGN BTN CLOCK SET WORLD TIME LANGUAGE QUICK REC DATE REC

[MENU]: END

--:--:--

MENU/STATUS switch

SEL/PUSH EXEC dial

Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for the first time.

3 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning

the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

1JAN

--:--:--:--

12 : 00

CLOCK SET

MDY

2008

[MENU]: CANCEL

4 Set [Y] (year) by turning the SEL/

PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.

You can set any year up to the year

2079.

CLOCK SET

MDY

2008

[MENU]: CANCEL

--:--:--:--

12 : 00

1JAN

5 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour

and minute, then press the dial.

The clock starts.

For midnight, set it to 12:00 AM.

For midday, set it to 12:00 PM.

z Tips

• The date and time are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback (DATA CODE button, p. 58).

Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language. Select the screen language in [LANGUAGE] (p. 89).

Getting Started

Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo”

Cassette tape

The camcorder can use standard-size and mini-size DVCAM/DV cassettes. For details about usable cassette, see “Types of cassette you can use in your camcorder” on page 2.

1 Set the POWER switch to ON.

2 While sliding the open lever in the

direction of the arrow, open the cassette lid.

Open lever

3 Insert the cassette with the

cassette window (on the front) facing outward and the REC/ SAVE switch facing upward.

Check for tape slack before inserting the cassette.

ress the center of

the cassette.

REC/SAVE switch

To insert a mini-size cassette

Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front) facing outward. Push the cassette between the both guides.

Guides

Mini-size cassette match marks

4 Close the cassette lid until it

clicks.

Top of the lid

Press the lid firmly until it clicks. If the cassette lid is hard to close, press the top of the lid.

To eject a cassette

Follow the procedure above, and take out the cassette by pressing the Z (eject) button in step 3.

Z (eject) button

• If a cassette is not inserted completely or gets stuck when being inserting, take out the cassette and reinsert it. If your insert a cassette forcibly, the cassette may not be inserted in the correct position or may cause a malfunction.

• When inserting a cassette, hold the center of the cassette and insert it straight toward the compartment. Holding the side of the cassette

may cause it to be inserted incorrectly.

• When inserting a cassette, put the camcorder on a horizontal and stable surface.

• When inserting a mini DV cassette tape, strong light entering the slot may cause a malfunction such as improper cassette type detection.

“Memory Stick Duo”

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

(p. 110).

1 Open the audio control panel

cover.

Getting Started

b Notes

• Before inserting a cassette, make sure that there is no cassette in the cassette compartment. Inserting two cassettes by mistake may cause a malfunction.

• Internal parts of the camcorder may become bent or otherwise damaged if you attempt to insert a mini-size cassette in the wrong direction (such as with the cassette turned backside front so the reel holes face the cassette holder window or with the cassette turned sideways so that a short side enters first).

Audio control panel cover

Continued ,

Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” (Continued)

2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”

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

Access lamp

b Notes

• If you insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the slot in the wrong direction, the “Memory Stick Duo,” the Memory Stick Duo slot, or image data may be damaged.

To eject a “Memory Stick Duo”

Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” once.

b Notes

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

• When inserting or ejecting the “Memory Stick Duo,” be careful with the “Memory Stick Duo” from popping out and dropping.

Recording/Playback

Recording

REC START/STOP button C

Recording lamp

Lens hood

REC START/ STOP button A

TALLY switch

Your camcorder records movies on tape and still images on “Memory Stick Duo.” Do the following steps to record movies.

• This camcorder can record movies in HDV or DVCAM (DV) format. The factory setting is HDV format ([REC FORMAT] p. 80).

1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.

Recording lamp

POWER switch

REC START/ STOP button B

CAMERA/VCR switch

Recording/Playback

2 Set the POWER switch to ON and the CAMERA/VCR switch to CAMERA.

CAMERA

POWER

ON OFF

VCR

Continued ,

Recording (Continued)

3 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B, C).

zREC

[STBY] t [REC]

The recording lamp lights up during recording. To stop the movie recording, press the REC START/STOP button again.

z Tips

• When recording in HDV format, the aspect ratio is fixed to 16:9. When recording in DVCAM (DV) format, you can switch the aspect ratio to 4:3 ([DV WIDE REC] p. 82).

• You can change the screen display during recording (p. 58).

• Indicators displayed on the screen during recording are shown on page 128.

• To turn off the front recording lamp, set the TALLY switch to OFF. To turn off the rear recording lamp, set [REC LAMP[R]] (p. 90).

• You cannot record movies on a “Memory Stick Duo.”

• For low angle recording, the REC START/STOP button on the handle is convenient. Release the HOLD lever to enable the REC START/STOP button.

00:04:50:04

REC

60min

2CH

To use the video light

Mount an Anton Bauer Ultralight 2 or equivalent (12-V supply voltage, 35-W maximum power consumption) as follows:

1 Mount the video light on the accessory

shoe on the handle of your camcorder.

2 Connect the connector of the video light

to the LIGHT connector of your camcorder.

b Notes

• Do not connect a video light, the power consumption of which is higher than 35W.

z Tips

• You can turns on and off the video light linked with the start and stop recording when you connect the connector to the LIGHT connector and set the LIGHT MAN/AUTO switch to AUTO.

To capture still images

1 Assign [PHOTO] to an ASSIGN button. 2 Press the ASSIGN button to which

[PHOTO] is assigned. A still image will be recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” appears when the recording is completed.

You can capture still images during movie recording.

z Tips

• See page 130 for indicators that appear on the screen during recording.

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

1.2M

0.9M

VGA

1440

1080 × 810

810

256MB 370 500 1400 1750

512MB 770 1000 2900 3650

1GB 1550 2100 6000 7500

2GB 3150 4300 12000 15000

4GB 6300 8500 23500 29500

8GB 12500 17000 48000 60000

b Notes

• Specifications are for Sony “Memory Stick Duo.” The actual number of recordable pictures can vary depending on the recording environment and the type of “Memory Stick Duo.”

z Tips

• Image sizes of still images are as follows: – Recording in HDV format/DVCAM (DV)

– Recording in DVCAM (DV) format (4:3):

– Playing back in HDV format: 1.2M – Playing back in DVCAM (DV) format (16:9):

– Playing back in DVCAM (DV) format (4:3):

1.2M

format (16:9): 1.2M

0.9M

0.2M

VGA

640 × 480

0.2M 640 × 360

To store still images captured from movies on a tape on “Memory Stick Duo”

You can capture an image in a movie and record it on a “Memory Stick Duo” as a still image. Be sure to insert a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” in your camcorder, Assign [PHOTO] to any one of ASSIGN buttons (p. 48).

1 Set the POWER switch to ON and the

CAMERA/VCR switch to VCR.

Recording/Playback

Continued ,

Recording (Continued)

2 Press the N (play) button to search for

the scene you want to save as a still image. Press the ASSIGN button to which [PHOTO] is assigned at the scene.

b Notes

• The recorded date and time on the tape and the stored date and time on the “Memory Stick Duo” are both saved on the “Memory Stick Duo.” When you view the still images, only the recorded date and time on the tape will be displayed on the screen (Data code, p. 58).

• Camera data stored on the tape will not be copied to the “Memory Stick Duo.”

• You cannot store a still image during using your camcorder with [PB ZOOM] set to [ON] (p. 90).

• You cannot store a still image under the following conditions:

– When the shutter speed is slower than 1/60 – While using the fader – While using smooth slow rec – While using shot transition – When [SCAN TYPE] is set to [24], [24A] or

[30] (p. 81)

Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings

Adjusting the zoom

SERVOMANUAL

ZOOM

Using the zoom lever

Set the ZOOM switch E to SERVO. Move the power zoom lever D slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.

Wide view: (Wide angle)

Close view: (Telephoto)

z Tips

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

• The focus may not be adjusted at certain zoom positions if the subject is within 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) from your camcorder.

• When you set [FOCUS MACRO] to [OFF] or the focus ring to the mode A position (p. 30), you cannot focus on a subject within 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) regardless of the zoom position (p. 70).

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

Using the handle zoom

1 Set the ZOOM switch E to SERVO. 2 Set the handle zoom switch B to VAR

or FIX.

z Tips

• When you set the handle zoom switch B to

VAR, you can zoom in or out at variable speed.

• When you set the handle zoom switch B to

FIX, you can zoom in or out at fixed speed set in [HANDLE ZOOM] (p. 70).

3 Press the handle zoom lever A to zoom

in or out.

b Notes

• You cannot use the handle zoom lever A when the handle zoom switch B is set to OFF.

• You cannot change the zoom speed of the zoom lever D with the handle zoom switch

Using the zoom ring

You can zoom at the desired speed by turning the zoom ring C. Fine adjustment is also possible.

1 Set the ZOOM switch E to MANUAL. 2 Turn the zoom ring C to zoom in or

out.

z Tips

• You can remove the zoom pin.

Recording/Playback

Continued ,

456

123

ZEBRA AE SHIFT

ASSIGN

STEADY

SHOT

Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued)

Adjusting the focus manually

ASSIGN 1-6 buttons

C K

Mode B

Mode A

Focus ring

You can adjust the focus manually for different recording conditions. Use this function in the following cases.

– To record a subject behind a window covered

with raindrops. – To record horizontal stripes. – To record a subject with little contrast between

the subject and its background. – When you want to focus on a subject in the

background.

Adjusting focus manually in mode A

In mode A, you can manually adjust focus without automatic adjustment functions. Set the focus ring to the mode A position and focus manually using the focus scale on the lens.

b Notes

• Turn the focus ring slowly. If it is forced against either end, the focus ring may move toward the mode B position and move past the end, and make noises.

Adjusting focus manually in mode B

In mode B, you can use the automatic adjustment functions during manual focus adjustment. Set the focus ring to the mode B position and do the following steps.

1 Assign [FOCUS] to an ASSIGN button

p. 48).

(

2 Press the ASSIGN button to which

[FOCUS] is assigned.

9 appears on the screen.

3 Turn the focus ring to adjust the focus.

9 changes to when you cannot

bring any further subject in focus. changes to when you cannot bring any closer subject in focus.

z Tips

For manual focus

• Zoom in and bring your camcorder in focus, then gradually zoom out.

• Fully zoom out and gradually zoom in when you shoot a close subject.

– To record a stationary subject using a tripod.

To restore automatic adjustment

Press the ASSIGN button to which [FOCUS] is assigned once again.

9 disappears and the automatic focus

adjustment is restored.

+ 106 hidden pages