Sony HVR-V1N Operating Guide

2-887-519-11(1)
Caméscope numérique HD
Operating Guide
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference
The supplied CD-ROM includes Operating Guide for the HVR-V1 series. (Japanese, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese versions). For more details, see “Using the CD-ROM Manual” on page 12.
HVR-V1U/V1N
© 2006 Sony Corporation
WARNING
To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
For Customers in the U.S.A.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.
2

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

For your protection, please read these safety instructions completely before operating the appliance, and keep this manual for future reference. Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and instructions on the appliance, or the one described in the operating instructions and adhere to them.
Use
Power Sources
This set should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of electrical power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. For those sets designed to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
Polarization
This set may be equipped with a polarized ac power cord plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other).
This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to have a suitable outlet installed. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug by forcing it in.
Overloading
Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords or convenience receptacles beyond their capacity, since this can result in fire or electric shock.
Object and Liquid Entry
Never push objects of any kind into the set through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the set.
Attachments
Do not use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer, as they may cause hazards.
Cleaning
Unplug the set from the wall outlet before cleaning or polishing it. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a cloth lightly dampened with water for cleaning the exterior of the set.
Installation
Water and Moisture
Do not use power-line operated sets near water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.
Power-Cord Protection
Route the power cord so that it is not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to the plugs, receptacles, and the point where the cord exits from the appliance.
Accessories
Do not place the set on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The set may fall, causing serious injury to a child or an adult, and serious damage to the set. Use only a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer.
Ventilation
The slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for necessary ventilation. To ensure reliable operation of the set, and to protect it from overheating, these slots and openings must never be blocked or covered.
– Never cover the slots and openings with a cloth
or other materials.
– Never block the slots and openings by placing
the set on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface.
– Never place the set in a confined space, such as
a bookcase, or built-in cabinet, unless proper ventilation is provided.
– Do not place the set near or over a radiator or
heat register, or where it is exposed to direct sunlight.
Continued ,
3
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS (Continued)
Lightning
For added protection for this set during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the set due to lightning and power-line surges.
Service
Damage Requiring Service
Unplug the set from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
– When the power cord or plug is damaged or
frayed.
– If liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the set. – If the set has been exposed to rain or water. – If the set has been subject to excessive shock by
being dropped, or the cabinet has been
damaged. – If the set does not operate normally when
following the operating instructions. Adjust
only those controls that are specified in the
operating instructions. Improper adjustment of
other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified
technician to restore the set to normal operation. – When the set exhibits a distinct change in
performance – this indicates a need for service.
Servicing
Do not attempt to service the set yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Safety Check
Upon completion of any service or repairs to the set, ask the service technician to perform routine safety checks (as specified by the manufacturer) to determine that the set is in safe operating condition.
Replacement parts
When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer that have the same characteristics as the original parts.
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.
4

Read this first

English
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference.
CAUTION
Replace the battery with the specified type only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.
For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA
HVR-V1U only RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable. You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you.
For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free 1-800-822­8837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/
Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.
Owner's Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.
Model No. HVR­Serial No. Model No. AC­No.
For customers in the U.S.A.
If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800­686-SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HVR-V1U Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA
92127 U.S.A. Telephone Number: 858-942-2230 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.
Note
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: – Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Continued ,
5
Read this first (Continued)
For the State of California, USA only
Perchlorate Material - special handling may apply, See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery contains
perchlorate.
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, it is recommended to use mini DV cassettes. When recording in DVCAM format, it is recommended to use mini DVCAM cassettes. Mini DV cassettes with Cassette Memory are incompatible (p. 114).
The HDV standards
• 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
There are two sizes of “Memory Stick.” You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or
“Memory Stick Duo” (This size can be used with your camcorder.)
(p. 118).
6
“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” and “Memory Stick PRO Duo” can be used only with “Memory Stick PRO” compatible equipment.
• Do not attach a label or the like on a “Memory Stick Duo” or a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.
When using a “Memory Stick Duo” with “Memory Stick” compatible equipment
Be sure to insert the “Memory Stick Duo” into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.
Memory Stick Duo Adaptor
Using the camcorder
• Do not hold the camcorder by the following part.
Lens hood
Microphone Viewfinder
b Notes
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof or waterproof. See “Maintenance and precautions” (p. 123).
• Before connecting your camcorder to another device with an HDMI cable, component video cable, USB or i.LINK cable, be sure to insert the connector plug the correct way, and not forcibly to avoid damaging the terminal, or cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
About menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens
• A menu item that is grayed out is not available under the current recording or playback conditions.
• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are manufactured using extremely high­precision technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that appear constantly on the LCD screen and the viewfinder. These points are normal results of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording in any way.
LCD panel Battery pack
Black point White, red, blue or green point
Continued ,
7
Read this first (Continued)
• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder, or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause malfunctions.
• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun only in low light conditions, such as at dusk.
On recording
• Before starting to record, test the recording function to make sure the picture and sound are recorded without any problems.
• 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.
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.
This function that can be used when
i.LINK cable is connected.
8
This function that can be used when
USB cable is connected.
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. 23).
• 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
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ..................................................................3
Read this first ...........................................................................................5
Using the CD-ROM Manual ....................................................................12
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items ............................................................13
Step 2: Attaching the supplied microphone and the lens hood with
lens cover ...................................................................................14
Step 3: Charging the battery pack ..........................................................16
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly .....19
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................20
Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................22
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” ..................................24
Recording/Playback
Recording ...............................................................................................26
Playback .................................................................................................29
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings .............................31
Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons .....................................43
Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder ................................48
Adjusting the zoom ............................................................................. 31
Adjusting the focus manually.............................................................. 32
Adjusting the EXPOSURE/IRIS............................................................ 33
Adjusting to Natural Color (White balance)......................................... 37
Customizing the picture quality (Picture profile) ................................. 38
Adjusting the volume .......................................................................... 42
Focusing on a distant subject (Focus infinity) .................................... 44
Recording an index signal .................................................................. 44
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review).............. 45
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording
(End search) ....................................................................................... 45
Playing back the most recently recorded movies
(Last scene review)............................................................................. 45
Using the Shot transition .................................................................... 46
Changing the screen .......................................................................... 48
Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ................. 48
Checking the remaining battery (Battery Info) .................................... 49
Continued ,
9
Locating a scene on a tape .................................................................... 50
Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ................ 50
Searching for a recording start point (Index search) .......................... 50
Playing the picture on a TV .................................................................... 52
Using the Menu
Using the menu items ........................................................... 57
Menu items ............................................................................................59
(CAMERA SET) menu ....................................................................62
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/ IRIS/STEADYSHOT/BACK LIGHT, etc.)
(AUDIO SET) menu .......................................................................68
Settings for the audio recording (DV AU. MODE/XLR SET, etc.)
(DISPLAY SET) menu .....................................................................70
Display settings of the display and the viewfinder (MARKER/VF B.LIGHT/ DATA CODE, etc.)
(IN/OUT REC) menu ....................................................................... 75
Recording settings, input and output settings (VCR HDV/DV/DV REC MODE/ DV WIDE REC/ DOWN CONVERT, etc.)
(TC/UB SET) menu ......................................................................... 78
(TC PRESET/UB PRESET/TC LINK, etc.)
(MEMORY SET) menu .....................................................................80
Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (QUALITY/ALL ERASE, etc.)
(OTHERS) menu ............................................................................. 82
Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (USB SELECT/ QUICK REC/BEEP, etc.)
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. ............................................... 85
Recording pictures from a VCR ............................................................89
Copying movies from tape to “Memory Stick Duo” as still images ......... 91
Deleting recorded pictures from the “Memory Stick Duo” ...................... 92
Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) ........................93
10
Using a Computer
Connecting to a computer ......................................................................95
Copying still images to a computer ........................................................95
Copying movies on a tape to a computer ...............................................98
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................101
Warning indicators and messages .......................................................110
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ..............................................................113
HDV format and recording/playback ....................................................114
Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats ..............................................116
About the “Memory Stick” .....................................................................118
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ..................................................120
About i.LINK .........................................................................................121
Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................123
Specifications .......................................................................................127
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................131
Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder ......................................137
Index .....................................................................................................140
11

Using the CD-ROM Manual

English
The supplied CD-ROM includes versions of the Operating Guide for the HVR-V1 series in Japanese, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese in PDF format.
Preparation
The following program must be installed on your computer in order to read the Operating Guide contained on the CD­ROM.
• Adobe Reader Version 7.0 or higher
z Tip
• If Adobe Reader is not installed, you can download it from the following URL: http://www.adobe.com/
Adobe and Adobe Reader are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.
Reading the CD-ROM Manual
To read the Operating Guide contained on the CD-ROM, do the following.
1 Insert the CD-ROM in your CD-
ROM drive.
A cover page appears automatically in your browser. If it does not appear automatically in the browser, double-click on the index.htm file on the CD-ROM.
2 Select and click on the Operating
Guide that you want to read.
This opens the PDF file of the Operating Guide.
z Tip
• The files may not be displayed properly, depending on the version of Acrobat Reader. In such a case, install the latest version you can download from the URL mentioned in “Preparation” above.
12

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.
• The cassette tape and “Memory Stick Duo” are not included. See page 24, 114 and 118 for compatible cassettes and “Memory Stick Duo” for your camcorder.
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 16)
Power cord (1) (p. 16)
Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 136)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 52, 85)
Large eyecup(1) (p. 21)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-F570 (1) (p. 16, 120)
Lens hood with lens cover (1) (p. 15)
Wind Screen (1) (p. 14)
Microphone (1) (p. 14)
CD-ROM “Manuals for Digital HD Video Camera Recorder” (1) (p. 12)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
Getting Started
Component video cable (1) (p. 52)
USB cable (1) (p. 93,95)
13
Step 2: Attaching the supplied microphone and
1
the lens hood with lens cover
Attaching the supplied microphone
2
3
4
5
6
1 Attach the wind screen 1 to the
microphone 2.
4 Connect the plug of the
microphone to the INPUT1 jack
5.
5 Put the microphone cable into the
cable holder 4.
6 Select the channel with the REC
CH SELECT switch 6.
The REC CH SELECT switch positions and the channels to be used at the switch positions are shown in the table below.
REC CH SELECT switch position
CH1, CH2 INPUT1 Channel1
CH1 INPUT1 Channel1
z Tips
• See page 42 for adjusting the volume.
• Set the +48V switch to ON when you use the supplied microphone.
Input jack
INPUT2 -
INPUT2 Channel2
Channel to be used
Channel2
2 Loosen the screw of the
microphone holder 3 and open the cover.
3 Place the microphone into the
holder with the model name facing upward, close the cover, and tighten the screw.
14
Attaching lens hood with lens cover
2
1
Lens hood fixing screw
Align the marks on the lens hood to those on the camcorder, and turn the lens hood in the direction of the arrow. Tighten the lens hood fixing screw.
To remove the Lens hood with lens cover
Loosen the lens hood fixing screw and turn the lens hood in the opposite direction of the arrow in the illustration above.
z Tip
• If you attach, remove or adjust an 62mm (2 1/ 2in.) PL filter or MC protector, remove the lens hood.
To open the shutter of the Lens hood with lens cover
Move the lens cover lever up and down to open or close the lens cover.
Getting Started
Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to open the lens cover, and move the lever to CLOSE to close the lens cover.
15

Step 3: Charging the battery pack

You can charge the battery by attaching the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) to your camcorder.
b Note
• You cannot use batteries other than the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) (p. 120).
DC plug
AC Adaptor
DC IN jack
To the wall outlet
Power cord
1 Press the battery pack and slide it
down.
2 With the B mark on the DC plug
facing the cassette compartment, connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.
B mark
3 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor.
4 Connect the power cord to the
wall outlet.
5 Set the POWER switch to OFF
(CHG).
The CHARGE lamp lights up and charging starts.
16
After charging the battery
The CHARGE lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack.
z Tip
• You can check the remaining battery with Battery info (p. 49).
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Push the BATT RELEASE (battery release) button and remove the battery pack.
BATT RELEASE (battery release) button
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.
Battery pack Charging time
NP-F570 (supplied) 260
NP-F770 370
NP-F970 485
b Note
• You cannot use the NP-F330 battery pack with this camcorder.
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.
Recording in the HDV format
Battery pack
NP-F570 (supplied)
NP-F770 280 165
NP-F970 415 235
Recording in the DVCAM (DV) format
Battery pack
NP-F570 (supplied)
NP-F770 290 175
NP-F970 430 255
Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off. Bottom: Recording time when recording with
the viewfinder while the LCD panel is closed.
* Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/off and zooming.
Continuous recording time
Continuous recording time
Typical recording time*
135 80
135 80
135 80
290 170
280 165
430 240
415 235
Typical recording time*
135 85
140 90
135 85
290 175
290 175
435 260
430 255
Getting Started
Continued ,
17
Step 3: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when you use a fully charged battery pack.
HDV format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel opened*
NP-F570 (supplied)
NP-F770 410 410
NP-F970 620 620
DVCAM (DV) format pictures
Battery pack
LCD panel opened*
NP-F570 (supplied)
NP-F770 435 435
NP-F970 660 660
* When the LCD backlight turns on.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
• The CHARGE lamp flashes during charging, or
Battery Info (p. 49) will not be correctly displayed under the following conditions.
– The battery pack is not attached correctly. – The battery pack is damaged. – The battery pack is worn-out (For Battery
Info only).
• The power will not be supplied from the battery
as long as the AC Adaptor is connected to the DC IN jack of your camcorder, even when the power cord is disconnected from the wall outlet.
• When attaching an optional video light, it is
recommended that you use a NP-F970 battery pack.
LCD panel closed
200 200
LCD panel closed
210 210
On the charging/recording/playback time
• Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C (77 °F) (10 to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F)) is recommended).
• The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperatures.
• The recording and playback time will be shorter depending on the conditions under which you use your camcorder.
Using an outside power source
You can use the AC Adaptor to obtain AC. While you are using the AC Adaptor, the battery pack will not lose its charge even when it is attached to your camcorder.
Connect your camcorder as shown in Step3:Charging the battery pack (p. 16).
On the AC Adaptor
• Use the nearby wall outlet when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.
• Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.
• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.
PRECAUTION
• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor.
18
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your
camcorder properly
To record or play back, slide the POWER switch to the respective direction. When using it for the first time, [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 22).
POWER switch
2 Hold the camcorder properly.
Getting Started
1 While pressing the green button,
set the POWER switch.
If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.
CAMERA: To record pictures. VCR: To play or edit pictures.
b Note
• After you have set the date and time ([CLOCK SET], p. 22), the next time you turn on the power of your camcorder, the current date and time will be displayed on the LCD screen for a few seconds.
3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
b Note
• If warning messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions (p. 111).
19

Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder

2
The LCD panel
Open the LCD panel while pressing the OPEN button 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2).
OPEN button
190 degrees to the camcorder
180 degrees (max.)
To turn off the LCD backlight to make the battery last longer
Press and hold the DISPLAY/BATT INFO button for a few seconds until appears. This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or where you want to save battery power. The recorded picture will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold the DISPLAY/BATT INFO button for a few seconds until disappears.
z Tip
• See [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 73) to adjust the
brightness of the LCD screen.
The viewfinder
You can view pictures using the viewfinder to save the battery, or when the picture on the LCD screen is not clear.
Viewfinder lens adjustment lever
Move it until the picture becomes clear.
Viewfinder
290 degrees (max.)
z Tips
• If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees toward
the lens from the position 1, you can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen facing outward. This is convenient during playback operations.
• To close the LCD panel with the LCD screen
inward, rotate the LCD panel to the position 1, and then close the LCD panel.
DISPLAY/BATT INFO
20
z Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight from [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 73).
• To display images both on the LCD display and
in the viewfinder, set [VF POWERMODE] to [ON](p. 73).
• To display images in black and white in the
viewfinder, set [VF COLOR] to [OFF](p. 73).
When the picture in the viewfinder is hard to see
If you cannot see the picture in the viewfinder clearly under bright circumstances, use the supplied large eyecup. To attach the 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.
b Note
• Do not remove the pre-attached eyecup.
Large eyecup (supplied)
Attach with the protruding part at the top.
Getting Started
21

Step 6: Setting the date and time

Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position.
z Tip
• 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. 125).
MENU button
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for the first time.
2 Select (OTHERS) by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
OTHERS RETURN CAMERA PROF. ASSIGN BTN
PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS
CLOCK SET WORLD TIME LANGUAGE QUICK REC
[MENU]: END
3 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
120min
CLOCK SET
[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.
120min
CLOCK SET
--:--:--:--
AMDMY 12100:JAN2006
--:--:--:--
AMDMY 12100:JAN2006
1 Press the MENU button.
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[MENU]: CANCEL
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 Tip
• The date and time do not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the tape, and can be displayed during playback ([DATA CODE] (
p. 73)).
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. 83).
Getting Started
23

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

{DO NOT PUSH}
Cassette tape
See page 114 for details of usable cassettes and prevention of accidental erasure.
1 Slide and hold the OPEN/
EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.
OPEN/EJECT lever
Lid
The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up.
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly.
Window
b Note
• Do not push the portion marked
may cause a malfunction.
while it is sliding in. It
3 Close the lid.
z Tip
• The recordable time varies depending on [DV REC MODE] (p. 75).
To eject the cassette
Open the lid following the same procedure as described in step 1 and remove the cassette.
“Memory Stick Duo”
You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with or
(p. 118).
1 Open the jack cover.
24
Jack cover
Cassette compartment
The cassette compartment automatically slides back in.
2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”
into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot in the right direction until it clicks.
Access lamp
b Note
• 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.
Getting Started
25

Recording/Playback

Recording

Rec lamp
REC START/STOP button B
Lens hood
Rec lamp
This camcorder records movies on tape and still images on “Memory Stick Duo.” The procedure for recording movies is below.
• This camcorder can record movies in HDV or DVCAM (DV) format. The factory setting is HDV format
([REC FORMAT] p. 75).
PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button
POWER switch
REC START/STOP button A
1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.
2 While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch to CAMERA.
If the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG), slide it while pressing the green button.
26
3 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B).
410min
00:04:50:04
REC
60min
[STBY] t [REC]
The Rec 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. 76).
• You can change the screen display during recording (p. 48).
• Indicators displayed on the screen during recording are shown on page 137.
• The recording lamp can be set to stay off ([REC LAMP] p. 84).
• You cannot record the movie on a “Memory Stick Duo”.
To record in mirror mode
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees toward the lens (2).
Recording/Playback
z Tip
• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the recorded picture will be normal.
Continued ,
27
Recording (Continued)
To record still images
Press the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button. The image is recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Recording is complete when disappears. You can also record still images during movie recording.
z Tips
• When you are not recording a movie, you will hear the shutter click.
• The still image size is as follows: – When recording in HDV or DVCAM (DV) (16:9) format: 1.2M (1,440 × 810 dots) – When recording in DVCAM (DV) (4:3) format: 0.9M (1,080 × 810 dots)
• You can change the image quality and number of recordable images ([ QUALITY] (p. 80)).
• Indicators displayed on the screen during shooting are shown on page 137.
• You can set the PHOTO/EXPANDED FOCUS button to start the expanded focus function as you press the button ([PHOTO/EXP.FOCUS] (p. 83)).
28

Playback

Zoom lever
POWER switch
SEL/PUSH EXE C dial
VOLUME/MEMORY button
MEMORY/PLAY button
MEMORY/INDEX button
You can play back movies as follows.
1 While pressing the green button, set the POWER
switch to VCR.
PLAY button
Recording/Playback
2 Start playing back.
m (rewind) to go to the point you want to view, then press N (play) to start
Press playback.
x : Stop
X : Pause (Press N or X again to restart the playback)
M m : Forward/Rewind
y : Slow
b Notes
• Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes.
• When playing back a tape recorded in the HDV and DVCAM (DV) formats and the signal switches
between HDV and DVCAM (DV), the picture and sound disappear temporarily.
• You cannot play back the tape recorded in the HDV format on video cameras of the DVCAM (DV)
format or mini-DV players.
• DV format tapes are played back on your camcorder only if they are recorded in the SP mode
( appears on the screen). Tapes recorded in the LP mode are not played back.
Continued ,
29
Playback (Continued)
• Time code and user bits are not displayed correctly unless time code and user bits are recorded on the tape, or the recorded time code is compatible with your camcorder.
z Tips
• Indicators displayed on the screen during playback are shown on page 138.
• You can change the screen display during playback (p. 48).
To search for a scene while viewing a movie
Press M/m during playback (Picture Search). To view during fast forward press and hold M and to view during rewind press and hold m (Skip Scan).
b Note
• Reverse picture search/skip scan is not possible with tapes recorded in HDV format.
To adjust the volume
Adjust using the VOLUME/MEMORY button.
To view still images
1 Slide the POWER switch to VCR. 2 Press the MEMORY/PLAY button. 3 Select still image that you want to look using the VOLUME/MEMORY button.
To stop viewing still images, press the MEMORY/PLAY button once more.
To display the list of still images (index screen)
1 Slide the POWER switch to VCR. 2 Press the MEMORY/INDEX button.
101–0050
1/19
101
3 Select a picture by pressing the VOLUME/MEMORY button.
To display a single image, move B to that image and press the MEMORY/PLAY button.
To stop displaying the list of still photos, press the MEMORY/INDEX button again.
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