Sony HVR-Z1N User Manual
2-514-606-11(1)
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder HVR-Z1U/Z1N
Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder
Operating Instructions
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
HVR-Z1U/Z1N
© 2005 Sony Corporation
Read this first
For customers in the U.S.A. and
CANADA
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
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.
HVR-Z1U 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.
For customers in the U.S.A.
If you have any questions about this product, you
may call:
Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-686SONY (7669)
The number below is for the FCC related matters
only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: HVR-Z1U
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr, San Diego,
CA 92127 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the fol lowing 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.
2
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.HVR-
Serial No.
Model No.AC-
Serial No.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
b 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 to an outlet on a circuit
different from that into which the receiver is
connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
The interface cable supplied 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.
Notes on use
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.
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.
Tip
z
• Your camcorder adopts the HDV1080i
specification, which util izes 1080 effective scanning
lines, within the HDV standards, and records
pictures at the image bit rate of about 25 Mbps. The
i.LINK Interface is adopted as the digital interface
enabling a digital connection with TVs and personal
computers compatible with the HDV format.
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 country/
region. 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.
The LCD panel, viewfinder, and lens
• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are
manufactured using extremely high-precision
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.
• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfind er, or the lens
to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause
,continued
3
malfunctions. Be careful when placing the camera
near a window or outdoors.
• 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.
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.
• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.
Viewfinder
Connecting other devices
Before connecting your camcorder to other device
such as a VCR or a computer with an i.LINK cable,
be sure to insert the connector plug in the proper
direction. If you insert the connector plug forcibly
in the wrong direction, the terminal may be
damaged, or this may cause a malfunction of your
camcorder.
Using this manual
• The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder
used on this manual are captured using a digital still
camera, and thus may appear different from what
you see.
• The illustrations of the screen are those of when [50i/
60i SEL] on the (OTHERS) menu is set to 60i.
Using the camcorder
• To ensure a good grip, fasten the grip belt as shown
in the following illustration.
LCD panel
Battery pack
Microphone
Jack holder
• You can change the language to be used for screen
display on your camcorder (p. 19).
4
Table of Contents
Read this first ............................................................................................. 2
Quick Start Guide
Recording movies ...................................................................................... 8
Getting started
Step 1: Checking supplied items.............................................................. 10
Step 2: Charging the battery pack............................................................ 11
Using an outside power source ................................................................................. 13
Step 3: Turning the power on................................................................... 14
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ...................................... 15
Adjusting the LCD panel ........................................................................................... 15
Adjusting the viewfinder ............................................................................................ 15
Step 5: Setting the date and time............................................................. 16
Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape.............................................................. 18
Step 7: Setting the screen language ........................................................ 19
Recording
Recording movies .................................................................................... 20
Usable cassettes ....................................................................................................... 22
Using zoom ............................................................................................................... 22
Recording in mirror mode ......................................................................................... 24
Displaying the recording setup information – Status check ...................................... 24
Adjusting the exposure............................................................................. 25
Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects ............................................................... 25
Recording the subject lit by strong light – SPOTLIGHT ............................................ 26
Adjusting the white balance ...................................................................................... 26
Recording using manual adjustments ...................................................... 28
Adjusting the iris ........................................................................................................ 28
Adjusting the gain ..................................................................................................... 29
Adjusting the shutter speed ...................................................................................... 30
Adjusting the volume of light – ND FILTER .............................................................. 30
Displaying the zebra pattern to adjust the brightness ............................................... 31
Adjusting the focus ................................................................................... 32
Adjusting the focus manually .................................................................................... 32
Enhancing the outline to focus – PEAKING .............................................................. 34
,continued
5
Customizing the picture quality – PICTURE PROFILE ............................ 34
Customizing the sound............................................................................. 37
Adjusting the audio recording level – Microphone volume level ................................37
Connecting external audio sources ...........................................................................38
Selecting the recording channel ................................................................................39
Recording a picture using various features.............................................. 40
Developing scenes smoothly – Shot transition ..........................................................40
Revising a specific color – Color Correction ..............................................................42
Fading in and out of a scene – FADER .....................................................................44
Recording an index signal at the beginning of recording ........................................... 44
Recording on a device connected via an i.LINK cable
– External REC Control....................................................................... 45
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes – Rec Review ................. 47
Playback
Viewing movies ........................................................................................ 48
Playing back in various modes ..................................................................................49
Various playback functions ...................................................................... 50
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording – END SEARCH ............. 50
Displaying the screen indicators ................................................................................50
Displaying the date/time and camera settings data – Data code ..............................51
Displaying the video information – Status check .......................................................51
Playing the picture on a TV ...................................................................... 52
Viewing the picture on a high definition TV ...............................................................52
Viewing the picture on a 16:9 TV or a 4:3 TV ............................................................54
Locating a scene on a tape for playback.................................................. 55
Searching for a scene by date of recording – Date search .......................................55
Searching for a recording start point – Index search .................................................56
6
Advanced operations
Troubleshooting
Using the Menu
Selecting menu items .........................57
Using the (CAMERA SET) menu
– STDYSHOT TYP/FRAME REC,
etc. ...............................................58
Using the (AUDIO SET) menu
– INT MIC SET/XLR SET, etc. .....64
Using the (LCD/VF SET) menu
– LCD COLOR, etc. .....................68
Using the (IN/OUT REC) menu
– REC FORMAT/DOWN CONVERT,
etc. ...............................................70
Using the (TC/UB SET) menu
– TC MAKE, etc. ..........................76
Using the (OTHERS) menu
– CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME,
etc. ...............................................78
Customizing Personal Menu ..............83
Assigning the functions ......................86
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to another tape ....................89
Recording pictures from a VCR
or TV ............................................93
Connecting to a computer ..................96
Dubbing sound to a recorded tape
..........................................98
Setting time values ..........................101
Connecting an analog VCR to the
computer via your camcorder
– Signal conversion
function .......................................104
Troubleshooting ...............................106
Warning indicators and messages ...111
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ..........113
HDV format and recording/playback 114
Compatibility of the DVCAM and DV
formats .......................................116
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack ............................................117
About i.LINK .....................................119
Maintenance and precautions ..........120
Specification .....................................123
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls ...........125
Index ................................................133
Note 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.
Features available only when
[50i/60i SEL] of the menu is set
to [50i].
Features available only when
[50i/60i SEL] of the menu is set
to [60i].
7
Quick Start Guide
Recording movies
1 Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder.
To charge the battery, see page 11.
Press the battery pack and slide it down.
Battery Pack
2 Insert a cassette into the camcorder.
a Slide the OPEN/
EJECT lever in
the direction of the
arrow to open the lid.
The cassette compartment
comes out automatically.
OPEN/EJECT lever
Quick Start Guide
8
b Insert the cassette with
its window-side facing
out, then push the center
of the back of the
cassette.
Window-side
c Press on the
cassette
compartment.
Close the cassette lid after
the cassette compartment
slides back in by itself.
3 Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen.
The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 16.
The pictures are recorded in the HDV format in the default setting. To record in the DVCAM or
DV format, see page 20.
a Open the hood shutter.
b Open the LCD panel and
adjust the angle.
c While pressing the green
button, set the POWER
switch to CAMERA.
d Press REC START/STOP.
Recording starts. To change to
standby mode, press REC
START/STOP again.
4 View the recorded picture on the LCD screen.
Quick Start Guide
a While pressing the green
button, set the POWER
switch to VCR.
b Press m (rewind).
c Press N (play) to start the
playback.
To stop, press x (stop).
To turn off the power, set the POWER
switch to OFF.
Quick Start Guide
9
Getting started
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure you have following items supplied
with your camcorder.
The number in parentheses indicates the number
of that item supplied.
AC Adaptor/charger (1)
Power cord (1)
Large eyecup (1)
To attach it to your camcorder, see page 16.
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
A/V connecting cable (1)
Component video cable (1)
Connecting cord (DK-415) (1)
Lens hood (1)
This is attached to your camcorder.
b Note
• If you attach an optical filter (opt ional) or so, remove
the lens hood.
Getting started
10
Shoe adaptor (1)
To attach it to your camcorder, see page 130.
Rechargeable battery pack NP-F570 (1)
Size AA (R6) batteries (2)
To insert the batteries in the Remote
Commander, see page 131.
Cleaning cassette (1)
Shoulder strap (1)
To attach it to your camcorder, see page 126.
Operating Instructions (This manual) (1)
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the battery by attaching the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) to
the AC Adaptor/charger.
b Note
• You cannot use batteries other than the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series) (p. 117).
• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor/
charger with any metallic objects. This may cause a
malfunction.
• Use a nearby wall outlet when using the AC
Adaptor/charger. Disconnect the AC Adaptor/
charger from the wall outlet immediately if any
malfunction occurs.
4 While pressing the battery back down,
slide it in the direction of the arrow.
The charge lamp lights up and charging
starts.
When the battery was successfully
charged
The battery mark on the display window will
light up in the shape of a full battery ( ) that
indicates that the battery has been sufficiently
charged for use.
If you continue charging until the CHARGE
lamp turns off and FULL appears on the display
window, the battery has now been fully charged
and can be used for a little longer period.
Remove the battery pack from the AC Adaptor/
charger.
Getting started
To the wall outlet
Power cord
Battery pack
Charge lamp
Mode switch
Display window
AC Adaptor/charger
1 Set the mode switch to CHARGE.
2 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor/charger.
To attach the battery pack to the
camcorder
Press the battery pack and slide it down.
To remove the battery pack
3 Connect the power cord to the wall
outlet.
Set the POWER switch to OFF.
1
,continued
Getting started
11
2 Press BATT RELEASE and slide the
battery pack up.
C Possible recording time using the
viewfinder.
To check the remaining battery – Battery
Info
You can check the battery’s current charge level
and its current remaining recording time when
the power is turned off. The remaining
recording time in the selected recording format
appears.
1 Set the POWER switch to OFF.
2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the
angle.
3 Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO.
The battery information appears for about
7 seconds.
Keep the button pressed to view it for about
20 seconds.
Charging time
Approximate number of minutes required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack
using the supplied AC Adaptor/charger at 25°C
(77°F). (10 – 30°C (50 – 86°F) recommended.)
Battery pack Full charge
(Practical charge)
NP-F570 (supplied) 145 (85)
NP-F770 230 (170)
NP-F970 310 (250)
b Note
• NP-F330/F530/500/510/71 0 battery packs cannot be
used with your camcorder.
Recording time
Approximate number of minutes available
when you use a fully charged battery pack at
25°C (77°F).
Recording in the HDV format
Battery pack Continuous
recording
time
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 220
NP-F970 335
105
115
115
245
235
370
360
Typical
recording
time
55
60
60
120
120
120
185
190
190
BATTERY INFO
BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL
REC T IME AVA ILABLE
LCD SCREEN:
V IEWF I NDER:
50%0% 100%
105
min
115 min
A Battery charge level: Displays
approximate remaining amount of
power left in the battery pack.
B Possible recording time using the LCD
panel.
Getting started
12
Recording in the DVCAM/DV SP format
Battery pack Continuous
recording
time
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 235
110
125
120
255
250
Typical
recording
time
60
60
60
130
130
130
Battery pack Continuous
recording
time
NP-F970 355
385
380
• The top figures show an approximate number of
minutes when the LCD BACKLIGHT switch is set
to ON, and [VF POWER] is set to [OFF].
• The middle figures show an approximate number of
minutes when the LCD BACKLIGHT switch is set
to OFF, and [VF POWER] is set to [OFF].
• The bottom figures show an approximate number of
minutes when recording with the viewfinder.
• “Typical recording time” means an approximate
number of minutes that you can record using
external microphones 1 and 2, and you repeatedly
start/stop recording, move the POWER switch to
change the power mode, and zoom. The actual
battery life may be shorter.
z Tip
• You can also use NP-F550/F730/F750/F960 battery
packs. After charging these battery packs, make a
trial recording with them before an actual recording
to see the recording time. The recording time varies
depending on the environment where the camcorder
is used. Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO to display the
recording time on the screen.
Typical
recording
time
195
200
200
Playing time
Approximate number of minutes available
when you use a fully charged battery pack at
25°C (77°F).
HDV format pictures
Battery pack LCD panel
opened*
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 325 365
NP-F970 485 550
155 175
LCD panel
closed
* With the LCD BACKLIGHT switch set to ON.
b Note
• Figures are those of 60 Hz. They may be slightly
longer at 50 Hz.
• The recording and playback time will be shorter
when you use your camcorder in low temperature.
• The battery life will be slightly sh orter when you use
both of the LCD panel and the viewfinder than when
you use only the LCD panel.
• The battery information will not be correctly
displayed when the battery pack is discharged.
Getting started
Using an outside power source
You can use the AC Adaptor/charger as the
power source when you do not want the
battery to run out.
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/
charger.
To the wall outlet
Power cord
AC Adaptor/
charger
Mode switch
DVCAM/DV SP format pictures
Battery pack LCD panel
opened*
NP-F570
(supplied)
NP-F770 365 410
NP-F970 550 625
175 200
LCD panel
closed
Connecting cord (DK-415)
,continued
Getting started
13
1 Set the mode switch to VCR/
CAMERA.
No power will be supplied if the mode
switch is set to CHARGE.
Step 3: Turning the power on
2 Attach the connecting cord (DK-415)
to the camcorder.
Press the attaching part of the connecting
cord (DK-415), and slide it down.
3 Connect the connecting cord (DK-415)
to the AC Adaptor/charger.
4 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor/charger.
5 Connect the power cord to the wall
outlet.
You need to set the POWER switch to the
respective power mode to record or play back
pictures.
When using this camcorder for the first time,
the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 16).
While pressing the green button, set the
POWER switch.
The power turns on.
• CAMERA: To record pictures.
• VCR: To play or edit pictures.
Getting started
14
To turn off the power
Set the POWER switch to OFF.
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
Adjusting the LCD panel
z Tip
• If you rotate the LCD panel until it faces down, you
can close and restore the LCD panel to the original
position with the LCD screen facing out.
• If you are using the battery pack for power source,
you can select the brightness by setting [LCD BL
LEVEL] on the [LCD/VF SET] menu
• When you use your camcorder in bright conditions
using the battery pack, set the LCD BACKLIGHT
switch to OFF ( appears). This position saves
battery power.
• Even if you change the brightness of the LCD panel,
the brightness of recorded pictures is not affected.
(p. 68).
Getting started
You can adjust the angle and brightness of
the LCD panel to meet various recording
situations.
Even when there are obstructions between
you and the subject, you can check the
subject on the LCD screen during recording
by adjusting the angle of the LCD panel.
Up to about
100 degrees
Open the LCD panel 180 degrees, then
rotate it to the desired position.
180 degrees
Adjusting the viewfinder
You can view images using the viewfinder
when you close the LCD panel. Use the
viewfinder when the battery is running out, or
when the screen is hard to see.
Viewfinder lens
adjustment lever
1 Lift up the viewfinder.
To adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen
Adjust the brightness by pressing LCD
BRIGHT – or +.
2 Adjust the viewfinder lens adjustment
lever until the picture is clear.
Getting started
15
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 a little and
align it with the groove of the viewfinder, then
slide it up to the end. You can attach the large
eyecup facing either the right or left side.
Step 5: 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, the [CLOCK SET] screen
appears every time you turn on your
camcorder.
Large eyecup
(supplied)
z Tip
• To select the brightness of the viewfinder backlight
when you are using the battery pack, select the
(LCD/VF SET) menu, then [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 68).
• To display the picture on both th e LCD panel and the
viewfinder during recording, select the (LCD/
VF SET) menu, [VF POWER], then [ON] (p. 69).
• To display the picture in black and white on the
viewfinder, select the (LCD/VF SET) menu,
[VF COLOR], then [OFF] (p. 69).
b Note
• 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 (p. 122) and then set the date
and time again.
POWER switch
Getting started
16
1 Turn on your camcorder (p. 14).
2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the
angle.
Proceed to step 6 when you set the clock for
the first time.
3 Press MENU.
CAMERA SET
WB PRESET
WB OUTDR LVL
GA IN SETUP
SHOT TRANS
COLOR CORRCT
STEADYSHOT
STDYSHOT TYP
[MENU]: END
When [50i/60i SEL] on the (OTHERS)
menu is set to 50i, the clock is displayed in
24-hour display.
4 Select the (OTHERS) menu by
turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial,
then press the dial.
OTHERS
RETURN
ASS IGN BTN
CLOCK SET
WORLD TI ME
LANGUAGE
QU ICK REC
BEEP
REC LAMP
[MENU]: END
5 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the
dial.
120min
CLOCK SET
AMDMY 121JAN 00:2005
[MENU]: CANCEL
6 Set [Y] (year) by turning the SEL/
PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial.
120min
CLOCK SET
AMDMY 12100:JAN2005
Getting started
[MENU]: CANCEL
You can set any year up to the year 2079.
7 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour and
minute in the same way as was done in
step 6, then press the dial.
When [50i/60i SEL] on the (OTHERS)
menu is set to 60i, the clock is displayed in
12-hour display: 12:00:00AM is midnight
and 12:00:00PM is midday.
Getting started
17
Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape
For the information about the type of cassette
you can use with your camcorder, and details
on these cassettes (such as write-protection,
etc.), see page 114.
b Note
• Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This
may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
1 Slide the OPEN/EJECT lever in
the direction of the arrow and open the
lid.
2 Insert a cassette with its window-side
facing out.
Window-side
Push the center of the back
of the cassette lightly.
3 Press on the cassette
compartment.
The cassette compartment automatically
slides back in.
OPEN/EJECT lever
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out and opens up.
Getting started
18
Lid
4 Close the lid.
To eject the cassette
Slide the OPEN/EJECT lever in the
1
direction of the arrow and open the lid.
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out.
2 Take out the cassette, then press .
The cassette compartment automatically
slides back in.
3 Close the lid.
Step 7: Setting the screen language
5 Select [LANGUAGE] by turning the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the
dial.
You can select the language to be used on the
LCD screen.
POWER switch
1 Turn on your camcorder.
2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the
angle.
6 Select the desired language by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press
the dial.
7 Press MENU to hide the menu screen.
z Tip
• Your camcorder offers [ENG [SIMP]] (simplified
English) for when you cannot find your native
tongue among the options.
Getting started
3 Press MENU.
4 Select the (OTHERS) menu by
turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial,
then press the dial.
OTHERS STBY
RETURN
ASS IGN BTN
CLOCK SET
WORLD TI ME
LANGUAGE
QU ICK REC
BEEP
REC LAMP
[MENU]: END
Getting started
19
Recording
Recording movies
You can record movies in HDV, DVCAM,
and DV formats, in addition to either 50i or
60i system.
Before recording, follow steps 1 to 7 in
“Getting started” (p. 10 - p. 19).
Movies will be recorded along with stereo
sound.
Camera recording lamp
Format lamps
POWER switch and
Camera recording
lamp
1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.
REC START/STOP
3 While pressing the green button, set
the POWER switch to CAMERA.
appears on the LCD screen.
The HDV format lamp lights up and your
camcorder is set to recording standby after
a while.
Your camcorder is set to record using the
1080/60i specification of the HDV format
in the default setting.
To record using the 1080/50i specification
(PAL system), see “To record using the
1080/50i specification (PAL system)”
below.
To record in the DVCAM/DV format, see
“To record in the DVCAM/DV format”
below.
4 Press REC START/STOP.
Recording starts. [REC] appears on the
LCD screen and the Camera recording
lamps light up.
Press REC START/STOP again to stop
recording.
2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the
angle.
Recording
20
To record using the 1080/50i
specification (PAL system)
Change the setting of [50i/60i SEL] on the
(OTHERS) menu (p. 82).
Recording in DVCAM/DV will be done also
using the 50i (PAL) system.
To record in the DVCAM/DV format
To record in the DVCAM format
On the (IN/OUT REC) menu, set [REC
FORMAT] to [DV], and [ REC MODE] to
[DVCAM] (p. 71).
When the menu screen is turned off,
appears on the LCD screen, the DVCAM format
lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to
recording standby.
To record in the DV format
On the (IN/OUT REC) menu, set [REC
FORMAT] to [DV], and [ REC MODE] to
[DV SP] (p. 71).
When the menu screen is turned off,
appears on the LCD screen, the DVCAM format
lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to
recording standby.
To turn the power off
Set the POWER switch to OFF.
To record from a low-angle
Use the REC START/STOP button on the
handle after releasing the HOLD lever.
To view the picture during recording, face the
LCD panel or the viewfinder upward, or face
the LCD screen down, then close and restore the
LCD panel to the original position with the LCD
screen facing out.
HOLD lever
Indicators displayed during recording
The indicators will not be recorded on the tape.
The camera settings data (p. 51) will not be
displayed during recording.
60
min
HDV1080
i
ND
1
A Recording format (HDV1080i, DVCAM,
or DV SP)
B Remaining battery
The indicated time may not be correct,
depending on the environment where you
are using your camcorder. When you open
or close the LCD panel, it takes about
1 minute to display the correct remaining
battery time.
C 50i/60i system indicator (p. 82)
D Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or
[REC] (recording))
E Time code or user bits
The time code of this camcorder can be
preset. You can reset or preset the time code
even during recording (p. 101).
F Recording capacity of the tape (p. 80)
G Microphone volume level (p. 37)
H ND filter
If [ND1] or [ND2] flashes on the screen,
activate the ND filter (p. 30).
b Note
• Before changing the battery pack, set the POWER
switch to OFF.
• When the camcorder is left in recording standby for
more than about 3 minutes, your camcorder exits the
recording standby mode (the drum stops rotating) to
prevent tape wear and battery loss. Since the power
does not turn off, you can restart recording by
pressing REC START/STOP again. It takes some
time to restart recording, but this not a malfunction.
When recording in the HDV format, you can shorten
the time until recording starts by setting [QUICK
REC] on the (OTHERS) menu to [ON] (p. 78).
REC
00:00:00:00
60
min
CH1
CH2
Recording
,continued
Recording
21
However, the transition from the last recorded scene
may not be smooth.
• The following functions may not work correctly
with a tape recorded in the HDV, DVCAM, and DV
formats mixed:
– Date search
– Index search
z Tip
• You can record the color bars on a ta pe. If you record
movies including the color bars, you can adjust the
color while observing the color bars when you are
viewing the pictures on a TV or monitor. To display
the color bars, press BARS. Press BARS again to
hide the color bars. There are 2 types of color bar.
You can select either one in [BARS TYPE] on the
(CAMERA SET) menu (p. 62).
• To ensure smooth transition on a tape from the last
recorded scene to the next, note the following.
– Do not remove the cassette. (The picture will start
recording again without an obvious break even if
you turn the power off).
– Do not record pictures in the HDV, DVCAM, and
DV formats on the same tape.
– Do not record pictures in the system of 50i and 60i
on the same tape.
• You can superimpose the time and date on the
picture by setting [DATE REC] on the
(OTHERS) menu (p. 81). The time and date are
always displayed on the screen during recording.
• The recording time, date, and the camera settings
data are recorded automatically on the tape without
being displayed on the screen. You can view this
information during playback by pressing DATA
CODE (p. 51).
• To display the time data, press TC/U-BIT (p. 103).
• To attach an external microphone (optional), see
page (p. 38).
time will be 1/3 shorter than that indicated on the
tape.
Using zoom
Zoom levers are mounted on the camera itself
and on the handle.
Occasional use of the zoom is effective, but
use it sparingly for the best results.
1 cm (approx. 1/2 inch)*
80 cm (approx. 2 5/8 feet)*
* The minimum distance required between your
camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus with
that side of the lever.
Usable cassettes
When recording in HDV/DV format, it is
recommended that you use mini DV
cassettes.
When recording in DVCAM format, it is
recommended that you use mini DVCAM
cassettes.
b Note
• The transition from the last recorded scene to the
next may not be smooth with the [DV SP] setting.
• You cannot record in the LP mode of the DV format.
• If you use a mini DV cassette when [ REC
MODE] is set to [DVCAM], the possible recording
Recording
22
1 Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/
REMOTE.
2 Press the power zoom lever slightly for
a slower zoom. Press it further for a
faster zoom.
To record a wider range of view
Press the W side of the power zoom lever.
The subject appears farther away (Wide
angle).
To record a closer view
Press the T side of the power zoom lever.
The subject appears closer (Telephoto).
b Note
• You cannot adjust the zoom speed by pressing the
handle zoom lever. Change the zoom speed by
setting [HANDLE ZOOM] (p. 62).
• You cannot use the handle zoom lever when the
handle zoom switch is set to OFF.
• You cannot change the zoom speed of the power
zoom lever on the camera itself by switching the
handle zoom switch.
z Tip
• You can display the zoomed position with a number
or a bar display. Select [BAR] or [NUMBER] in
[ZOOM DISPLAY] on the (OTHERS) menu
(p. 80). The zoom position is displayed with a bar
display in the default setting.
Using the handle zoom
You can adjust the zoom speed with the handle
zoom switch when using the handle zoom lever.
Handle zoom lever
Zoom ring
Handle zoom switch
Using the zoom ring
You can zoom at the desired speed. Fine
adjustment is also possible.
1 Set the ZOOM switch to RING.
2 Rotate the zoom ring to zoom.
b Note
• Rotate the zoom ring at an appropriate speed.
Zooming may not be able to catch up the rotating
speed of the ring if it is rotated too fast.
• When you zoom using the Remote Commander, set
the ZOOM switch to LEVER/REMOTE.
• Zoomed position and picture angle change when the
ZOOM switch is switched from LEVER/REMOTE
to RING.
• If you rotate the zoom ring fast, motor noise will
become louder as the zoom motor rotates at high
speeds. If the motor noise is so loud that can be
recorded, use the zoom lever or the Remote
Commander.
Recording
1 Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/
REMOTE.
2 Set the handle zoom switch to H (high) or
L (low).
You can set the zoom speed of H or L of the
handle zoom lever in [HANDLE ZOOM]
on the (CAMERA SET) menu. In the
default setting, [H] is set to 6, and [L] is set
to 3 (p. 62).
3 Press the handle zoom lever to zoom in or
out.
Recording
23
Recording in mirror mode
Displaying the recording setup
information – Status check
You can turn the LCD panel towards the
subject so that you and your subject can share
the image being recorded. You can also
utilize this function when recording yourself,
or to keep the attention of small children
attracted to the camcorder while you record
them.
Up to about 100 degrees
Open the LCD panel 180 degrees, then
rotate it towards the subject until it clicks.
A mirror-image of the subject appears on the
LCD screen, but the picture will be normal
when recorded.
You can check the setup value of the
following items in the standby mode or
during recording.
• Audio setup such as microphone volume level
(p. 37)
• Output setup ([COMPONENT], [i.LINK
CONV], and [DOWN CONVERT] settings)
(p. 73)
• Functions assigned to the ASSIGN buttons
(p. 86)
• CAMERA setting
• Picture profile setup (p. 34)
24
1 Press STATUS CHECK.
2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to
display the desired item.
Each time you turn the dial, the items
appear in the following order:
AUDIO t OUTPUT t ASSIGN t
CAMERA t PICT. PROFILE
Recording
To turn off the display of the recording
setup information
Press STATUS CHECK.
b Note
• Information of the picture profile setup does not
appear when it is set to [OFF].
Adjusting the exposure
The exposure is adjusted automatically in the
default setting.
If you want to record brighter or darker
pictures than those of the auto exposure
adjustment, use the manual adjustment
function (p. 28), or customize the picture
quality by using the PICTURE PROFILE
function (p. 34).
Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects
When your subject has its back to the sun or
other light, you can adjust the exposure to
prevent the subject from becoming
shadowed.
Assign the BACK LIGHT function to one of
the ASSIGN buttons in advance. See page 86
for details on how to assign a function.
Recording
ASSIGN 1 – 6
Press the ASSIGN button assigned to the
BACK LIGHT function.
. appears.
To cancel the back light function, press the
button again.
,continued
Recording
25
b Note
• The back light function is canceled when you press
the ASSIGN button assigned to SPOTLIGHT.
• You cannot use the back light function if 2 or more
items out of iris, gain, and shutter speed are adjusted
manually.
Recording the subject lit by
strong light – SPOTLIGHT
When the subject is lit by strong light, such as
in a theater, use the spotlight function to
prevent people’s faces from appearing
excessively white.
Assign the SPOTLIGHT function to one of
the ASSIGN buttons in advance. See page 86
for details on how to assign a function.
Adjusting the white balance
You can adjust the white balance according
to the light of the recording environment.
The white balance adjustment data for 2
different recording conditions can be set up
and memorized separately in memory A and
B. During recording, you can recall the setup
data from the memory with the WHT BAL
(white balance) switch. The setup data will be
retained for about 3 months as long as it is not
readjusted even if the power is disconnected.
ASSIGN 1 – 6
During recording or in the standby mode,
press the ASSIGN button assigned to the
SPOTLIGHT function.
appears.
To cancel the spotlight function, press the
button again.
b Note
• The spotlight function is canceled when you press
the ASSIGN button assigned to BACK LIGHT.
• You cannot use the spotlight function if 2 or more
items out of iris, gain, and shutter speed are adjusted
manually.
Recording
26
(one-push)
WHT BAL
1 During recording or in the standby
mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to
the center position to release the auto
lock mode.
2 Press WHT BAL.
3 Set the WHT BAL switch to A or B.
4 Shoot a white subject such as a piece of
paper filling the entire screen under
the same lighting condition as that of
the subject.
5 Press (one-push) WHT BAL.
A or B flashes quickly.
When the white balance is adjusted, A
or B lights up and the adjustment data is
memorized.
To recall adjustment data from the
memory
1
During recording or in the standby
mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to the
center position to release the auto lock
mode.
2 Set the WHT BAL switch to A or B.
3 Press WHT BAL.
The white balance is set to the recalled
adjustment.
b Note
• Avoid subjecting your camcorder to mechanical
shock while A or B is flashing.
• If A or B does not change fr om flashing to lit
steadily, your camcorder is unable to set up the white
balance. In this case, use the preset or automatic
white balance.
To use the preset white balance
Your camcorder has the preset white balance
values for indoor recording and outdoor
recording. In addition, you can adjust the color
temperature ranging in ±7 steps from 5800K for
outdoor recording (p. 58). A step is equivalent
to about 500K.
1 During recording or in the standby
mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to the
center position to release the auto lock
mode.
2 Press MENU.
3 Select the (CAMERA SET) menu
by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial,
then press the dial.
4 Select [WB PRESET] by turning the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the
dial.
5 Select the desired item by turning the
SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the
dial.
Item Recording scene
[OUTDOOR]
()
[INDOOR] (n) • at party or in studios
It is set to [OUTDOOR] in the default
setting.
• general night views,
neon signs, or fireworks
• sunset, sunrise
• under daylight
fluorescent lamps
where lighting
conditions change
quickly
• under video lamps such
as those in a studio, under
sodium lamps, mercury
lamps, or warm white
fluorescent lamps
6 Press MENU to hide the menu screen.
7 Set the WHT BAL switch to PRESET.
8 Press WHT BAL.
The white balance is set to the selected
setting.
z Tip
• When [OUTDOOR] is selected, you can adjust the
white balance value for outdoor recording in [WB
OUTDR LVL] on the (CAMERA SET) menu
(p. 58). You can assign this function to one of the
ASSIGN buttons (p. 86).
To restore the automatic white balance
Press WHT BAL, or set the AUTO LOCK
switch to AUTO LOCK.
b Note
• If you set the AUTO LOCK switch to AUTO
LOCK, other manually adjusted items (iris, gain,
shutter speed) also become temporarily automatic.
Recording
Recording
27
Recording using manual adjustments
Adjusting the iris
You can manually adjust the iris, gain, etc.
according to the brightness of the recording
scene or in order to obtain desired effects.
Adjust the iris, gain, shutter speed, and white
balance after setting the AUTO LOCK
switch to the center position to release the
auto lock mode.
Depending on the position of the AUTO
LOCK switch, you can hold or release the
settings of these functions.
Position Purpose
AUTO LOCK To adjust automatically.
Center (to
release the auto
lock mode)
HOLD Select this position after adjusti ng
See page 26 for details on how to adjust the
white balance.
b Note
• If you want to set the exposure intentionally to other
than a proper level, adjust the iris, gain, and shutter
speed manually.
• If you adjust only one of either iris, shutter speed, or
gain manually, you can record with iris priority,
shutter speed priority, or gain priority, respectively.
z Tip
• To adjust the brightn ess of pictures, se t all of the iris,
gain, and shutter speed to the manual adjustment
mode, then rotate the iris dial.
To adjust manually.
the settings manually to retain
them.
You can manually adjust the light volume
entering the lens.
As the iris is opened (smaller aperture
values), the light volume increases. The
range of focus narrows and only the subject
appears in sharp focus.
As the iris is closed (larger aperture values),
the light volume decreases and the range of
focus widens.
IRIS dial
1 During recording or in the standby
mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to
the center position to release the auto
lock mode.
2 Press IRIS.
The current aperture value (F) appears.
28
3 Rotate the IRIS dial to a desired
aperture value.
The aperture value (F) varies from F1.6 to
F11, and Close, and the corresponding
value appears.
Recording
To restore automatic adjustment
Press IRIS, or set the AUTO LOCK switch to
AUTO LOCK.
b Note
• If you set the AUTO LOCK switch to AUTO
LOCK, other manually adjusted items (gain, shutter
speed, white balance) also become temporarily
automatic.
• As you shift the zoom from W (wide) to T
(telephoto), the aperture value varies from F1.6 to
F2.8.
z Tip
• You can select the rotation direction of the iris dial
with [IRIS DIAL] on the (OTHERS) menu
(p. 79).
• The iris has an important effect on the “depth of
field,” that is, the focused range. An open iris makes
the depth of field shallower (shorter focused range),
and a closed iris makes the depth of field deeper
(longer focused range). Use the iris effectively
according to your purpose of recording.
1 During recording or in the standby
mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to
the center position to release the auto
lock mode.
2 Press GAIN.
The current gain value appears.
3 Set the GAIN switch to the desired
position.
3 gain levels (H, M, L) are available.
You can set the value for the respective
positions with [GAIN SETUP] on the
(CAMERA SET) menu (p. 58).
The default settings for each position are
18 dB (H), 9 dB (M) and 0 dB (L).
The larger the number, the greater the gain.
Recording
Adjusting the gain
Adjust the gain manually when shooting
blackish or dark objects if you do not want
the AGC (auto gain control) to be activated.
To restore automatic adjustment
Press GAIN, or set the AUTO LOCK switch to
AUTO LOCK.
b Note
• If you set the AUTO LOCK switch to AUTO
LOCK, other manually adjusted items (iris, shutter
speed, white balance) also become temporarily
automatic.
z Tip
• You can increase the gain level up to about 36 dB by
using Hyper-gain (p. 87).
Recording
29
Adjusting the shutter speed
You can manually adjust and fix the shutter
speed for your convenience. Depending on
the shutter speed, you can make the subject
look still, or on the contrary, emphasize the
fluidity of movement.
1 During recording or in the standby
mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to
the center position to release the auto
lock mode.
number that appears on the screen, the
slower the shutter speed.
To restore automatic adjustment
Press SHUTTER SPEED, or set the AUTO
LOCK switch to AUTO LOCK.
b Note
• If you set the AUTO LOCK switch to AUTO
LOCK, other manually adjusted items (iris, gain,
white balance) also become temporarily automatic.
z Tip
• It is difficult to fo cus automatically at a lower shut ter
speed. Manual focusing with your camcorder
attached to a tripod is recommended.
• The picture may flicker or change colors under
fluorescent lamps, sodium lamps, or mercury lamps.
Adjusting the volume of light
– ND FILTER
You can record the subject clearly by using
the ND filter when the recording
environment is too bright.
There are 2 levels of ND filter setting. ND
filter 1 reduces the volume of light to about
1/6, and ND filter 2 to about 1/32.
2 Press SHUTTER SPEED.
3 Adjust the shutter speed by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial.
When 60i is selected in [50i/60i SEL] on the
(OTHERS) menu, you can select a
shutter speed between 1/4 second and 1/
10000 second.
When 50i is selected in [50i/60i SEL], you
can select a shutter speed between 1/3
second and 1/10000 second.
The selected shutter speed appears on the
screen. For example, if you select 1/100
second, [100] appears. The larger the
number that appears on the screen, the
faster the shutter speed. The smaller the
Recording
30
If [ND1] or [ND2] flashes in the standby
mode, set the ND FILTER switch to the
respective position.
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