HVR-Z7U
Table of contents
Loading...
3-280-847-11(1)
© 2008 Sony Corporation
http://www.sony.net/
Printed on 70% or more recycled paper
using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)
-free vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
US
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference
HVR-Z7U/Z7N
2
Read this first
Before operating this unit, please read this
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future
reference.
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 mini DV
cassettes.
When recording in DVCAM format, Sony
recommends that you use mini DVCAM
cassettes. Your camcorder does not support
the Cassette Memory function (p. 115).
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.
Notes on use
3
Using the camcorder
• Do not hold the camcorder by the
following part.
b Notes
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof
or waterproof.
See “About handling of your camcorder”
(p. 121).
• 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.
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 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.
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.
LCD panel
Viewfinder
Lens hood
Accessory shoe
adaptor
Memory recording
unit
Microphone or
Microphone holder
Black point
White, red, blue or green point
Continued ,
4
• 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.
Read this first (Continued)
5
Table of Contents
Read this first ...........................................................................................2
Step 1: Checking supplied items ..............................................................8
Step 2: Attaching the supplied items ......................................................10
Step 3: Charging the battery pack ..........................................................14
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder properly .....17
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ....................................18
Step 6: Setting the date and time ...........................................................20
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” ..................................22
Recording ...............................................................................................24
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings .............................27
Adjusting the zoom ............................................................................. 27
Adjusting the focus manually.............................................................. 28
Adjusting the exposure ....................................................................... 30
Adjusting to natural color (White balance).......................................... 32
Adjusting the black balance ............................................................... 33
Customizing the picture quality (Picture profile) ................................. 33
Adjusting the volume .......................................................................... 42
Assigning the functions to the ASSIGN buttons .....................................43
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
Marking focal point on the screen (Focus marking) ...............................49
Playback .................................................................................................50
Changing/checking the settings in your camcorder ................................53
Changing the screen .......................................................................... 53
Displaying recording data (Data code) .............................................. 53
Displaying the settings in your camcorder (Status check) ................. 54
Checking the remaining battery (Battery Info) .................................... 54
Locating a scene on a tape ....................................................................55
Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ................ 55
Searching for a recording start point (Index search).......................... 55
Getting Started
Recording/Playback
Continued ,
6
Playing the picture on a TV .................................................................... 57
Using the menu items ........................................................... 63
Menu items ............................................................................................65
(CAMERA SET) menu ....................................................................68
Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (GAIN SETUP/
BACK LIGHT/STEADYSHOT, etc.)
(AUDIO SET) menu .......................................................................75
Settings for the audio recording (DV AU.MODE/XLR SET, etc.)
(DISPLAY SET) menu .....................................................................78
Display settings of the display and the viewfinder (MARKER/VF B.LIGHT/DISP
OUTPUT, etc.)
(IN/OUT REC) menu ....................................................................... 82
Recording settings, input and output settings (REC FORMAT/HDV PROGRE./
VIDEO OUT/EXT REC CTRL, etc.)
(TC/UB SET) menu ......................................................................... 86
(TC PRESET/UB PRESET/TC LINK, etc.)
(MEMORY SET) menu ....................................................................88
Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (ALL ERASE/FORMAT, etc.)
(OTHERS) menu ............................................................................. 90
Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (QUICK REC/BEEP,
etc.)
Dubbing to VCR, DVD/HDD device, etc. ............................................... 93
Recording pictures from a VCR ............................................................97
Copying movies on a tape to a computer ..............................................99
Troubleshooting ...................................................................................102
Warning indicators and messages .......................................................112
Using the Menu
Dubbing/Editing
Troubleshooting
Table of Contents (Continued)
7
Using your camcorder abroad ..............................................................114
Maintenance and precautions ..............................................................115
HDV format and recording/playback ................................................ 115
Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats ........................................... 116
About the “Memory Stick” ................................................................. 118
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ............................................. 119
About i.LINK...................................................................................... 120
About x.v. Color ................................................................................ 121
About handling of your camcorder ................................................... 121
Specifications .......................................................................................125
Identifying parts and controls ...............................................................129
Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder ......................................136
Index .....................................................................................................139
Additional Information
Quick Reference
8
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 pages 2, 115 and 118 for types
of cassette tapes and “Memory Stick Duo” that
you can use on your camcorder.
Carl Zeiss lens (VCL-412BWH) (1) (p. 10)
This lens is pre-mounted.
Memory Recording Unit (HVR-MRC1) (1)
(p. 13)
i.LINK Cradle (HVRA-CR1) (1) (p. 13)
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-F570) (1)
(p. 14, 119)
AC Adaptor/Charger (AC-VQ1050) (1)
(p. 14)
Large eyecup (1) (p. 19)
Lens hood with lens cover (1) (p. 12)
This lens hood is pre-mounted.
Wind Screen (1), Microphone (ECM-XM1)
(1) (p. 12)
Accessory shoe adaptor (1) (p. 130)
Accessory shoe kit (Accessory shoe (1),
Accessory shoe plate (1), screws (4))
(p. 129)
Lens mount cap (1) (p. 134),
Rear lens cap (1) (p. 134)
Wireless Remote Commander
(RMT-831) (1) (p. 135)
A button-type lithium battery is already installed.
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 57, 93)
Component video cable (1) (p. 57)
9
Getting Started
Connecting cord (DK-415) (1) (p. 16)
Test chart for flange focal length
adjustment (1) (p. 10)
CD-ROM “Manuals for Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder” (1)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
10
Step 2: Attaching the supplied items
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.
1 Push the lens locking lever C 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 C 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 B as illustrated.
1 Push the lens locking lever C 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 C down to
mount the lens.
4 Connect the lens cable to the LENS jack
A.
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.
• 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 B as illustrated.
• Press the REC START/STOP button on the
handle or the START/STOP button on the
Remote Commander 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. 33)
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 (VCL-
412BWH/VCL-308BWH). 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.
Mounting the lens
Mounting the Carl Zeiss lens
Mounting non-Carl Zeiss lens
Adjusting the flange focal length (for
Carl Zeiss lens)
11
Getting Started
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. 75).
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.
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.
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
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 [PEAKING] in the (DISPLAY
SET) menu to [ON] (p. 78).
– Press the ASSIGN button to which
[EXP.FOCUS] is assigned (L2 button by
default) (p. 43).
ZOOM
SERVOMANUAL
Continued ,
12
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 the INPUT1 jack
D.
4 Put the microphone cable into the
cable holder E.
5 Select the channel with the REC
CH SELECT switch F.
The channel to be used differs
depending on the relationship between
the REC CH SELECT switch positions
and the input jacks.
See the table below.
z Tips
• See page 41 for adjusting the volume.
• Set the INPUT1/INPUT2 switch to MIC+48V
when you use the supplied microphone.
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
Attaching the supplied
microphone
LINE
INPUT2 INPUT1
MIC
MIC
LINE
MIC
MIC
INPUT2 INPUT1
REC CH SELECT
switch position
Input jack
Channel to
be used
CH1, CH2 INPUT1 Channel1
Channel2
INPUT2 -
CH1 INPUT1 Channel1
INPUT2 Channel2
Attaching the lens hood with lens
cover
PUSH (lens hood release) button
Step 2: Attaching the supplied items (Continued)
13
Getting Started
pressing the PUSH (lens hood release)
button.
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.
Make sure that the HDV/DV jack cover is
closed.
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.
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.
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 HVR-
MRC1 on the supplied CD-ROM for details on
the i.LINK cradle.
Attaching Memory Recording Unit
Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to
open the lens cover, and move the lever
to CLOSE to close the lens cover.
HDV/DV jack (6-pin)
14
Step 3: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the "InfoLITHIUM"
battery pack (L series) with the
supplied AC Adaptor/Charger.
b Notes
• You cannot use batteries other than the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (L series)
(p. 119).
1 Set the mode change switch to
CHARGE.
2 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor/Charger.
3 Connect the power cord to the
wall outlet.
4 Place the battery pack in the slot
of the AC Adaptor/Charger, press
it down, and slide it in the
direction of the arrow as
illustrated.
The charge lamp turns on and charging
starts.
After charging the battery
All segments of the battery mark ( )
appear in the display window when the
normal charge of the battery is completed.
You can fully charge the battery pack if you
continue charging the battery pack after the
charge lamp turns off until the battery mark
with “FULL” appears (full charge). The
battery life of the fully charged battery is
slightly longer than that of the normally
charged battery.
Remove the battery pack from the AC
Adaptor/Charger when the charge is
completed.
z Tips
• You can check the remaining battery life with
the battery info function (p. 54).
To attach the battery pack
Press the battery pack against the back of
your camcorder and slide it down.
2
4
4
1
3
Charge lamp
15
Getting Started
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF. Push the
BATT RELEASE (battery release) button
and remove the battery pack.
To store the battery pack
If the battery pack will not be used for a
while, run down the battery and store it. See
page 120 for details on storage of the
battery pack.
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery
pack.
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
b Notes
• You cannot use the NP-F330 battery pack with
this camcorder.
Recording in the HDV format
Recording in the DVCAM (DV) format
Top: When the LCD backlight turns on.
Bottom: 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.
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
HDV format pictures
Battery pack Charging time
NP-F570 (supplied) 145
NP-F770 230
NP-F970 310
BATT RELEASE
(battery release) button
Battery pack
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
NP-F570
(supplied)
125 70
125 70
NP-F770 260 145
260 145
NP-F970 390 220
390 220
Battery pack
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
NP-F570
(supplied)
130 75
130 75
NP-F770 270 155
275 155
NP-F970 400 235
410 235
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
LCD panel
closed
NP-F570
(supplied)
175 180
NP-F770 360 375
NP-F970 545 570
Continued ,
16
DVCAM (DV) format pictures
* When the LCD backlight turns on.
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF.
• The Battery Info (p. 54) 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).
• Sony recommends that you use an NP-F970
battery pack when you use your camcorder with
the Memory Recording Unit or a video light
(optional).
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.
You can use the AC Adaptor/Charger to
obtain AC power.
1 Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor/Charger.
2 Connect the power cord to the wall
outlet.
3 Connect the connecting cable (DK-415)
to the AC Adaptor/Charger.
4 Set the mode change switch of the AC
Adaptor/Charger to VCR/CAMERA.
5 Press the connecting part of the
connecting cable (DK-415) against the
back of your camcorder in the battery
slot and slide it down.
On the AC Adaptor/Charger
• Use the nearby wall outlet when using the AC
Adaptor/Charger. Disconnect the AC Adaptor/
Charger from the wall outlet immediately if any
malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.
• Do not use the AC Adaptor/Charger placed in a
narrow space, such as between a wall and
furniture.
• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC
Adaptor/Charger or battery terminal with any
metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.
• 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.
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened*
LCD panel
closed
NP-F570
(supplied)
180 190
NP-F770 375 390
NP-F970 570 595
Using an outside power source
1
2
4
3
5
AC Adaptor/
Charger
Power
cord
To the wall
outlet
Mode
change
switch
Connecting cord
DK-415
Step 3: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
17
Getting Started
Step 4: Turning the power on and holding your
camcorder properly
To record or play back, set the POWER
switch to the respective positions.
When you use your camcorder for the first
time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears
(p. 20).
1 Slide the POWER switch to
CAMERA or VCR while you press
the green button.
CAMERA: To record pictures.
VCR: To play or edit pictures.
b Notes
• The current date and time appear 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).
2 Hold the camcorder properly.
3 Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF while
pressing the green button.
b Notes
• If warning messages appear on the screen,
follow the instructions.
POWER switch
Slide the POWER
switch while
pressing the green
button.
18
Step 5: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
Open the LCD panel 180 degrees (1), then
rotate it to the best angle to record or play
back (2).
z Tips
• You can see your mirror image on the LCD
screen by setting the LCD panel facing you. The
image will be recorded in a normal image.
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 when 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 Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen
from [LCD BRIGHT] (p. 81).
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.
z Tips
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight from [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 81).
• To display images both on the LCD display and
in the viewfinder, set [VF POWERMODE] to
[ON](p. 81).
• To display images in black and white in the
viewfinder, set [VF COLOR] to [OFF] (p. 81).
The LCD panel
TC/U-BIT DATA CODE
DISPLAY/BATT INFO button
1Open 180 degrees.
2180 degrees
(max.)
290 degrees
(max.)
The viewfinder
Viewfinder lens
adjustment lever
Move it until the picture
becomes clear.
19
Getting Started
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 Notes
• Do not remove the pre-attached eyecup.
Large eyecup (supplied)
Attach with the
protruding part at
the top.
20
Step 6: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using your
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
positions.
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. 124).
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for
the first time.
1 Press the MENU button.
2 Select (OTHERS) by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then
press the dial.
3 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning
the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then
press the dial.
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.
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.
SEL / PUSH EXEC
MENU P
P
SEL/PUSH
EXEC dial
MENU
button
OTHERS
RETURN
CAMERA PROF.
ASSIGN BTN
CLOCK SET
--
:
--
:
--
WORLD TIME
LANGUAGE
QUICK REC
DATE REC
[
MENU
]
: END
CLOCK SET
[
MENU
]
: CANCEL
MDY
12 : 00
AM
1JAN
--
2008
--:--:--:--
CLOCK SET
[
MENU
]
: CANCEL
MDY
12 : 00
AM
1JAN
--
2008
--:--:--:--
21
Getting Started
z Tips
• The date and time are automatically recorded on
the tape, and can be displayed during playback
(DATA CODE button, p. 53).
.
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Select the screen language in
[LANGUAGE] (p. 91).
Changing the language setting
22
Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo”
See page 115 for details on tapes including
which tapes can be used and how to protect
from overwriting tapes.
1 Slide and hold the OPEN/
EJECT lever in the direction of the
arrow and open the lid.
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out.
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
The cassette compartment automatically
slides back in.
b Notes
• Do not push the portion marked
while the cassette
compartment is sliding in. Doing so may
cause a malfunction.
3 Close the lid.
z Tips
• The recordable time varies depending on [DV
REC MODE] (p. 84).
To eject the cassette
Open the lid following the same procedure
as described in step 1 and remove the
cassette.
You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo”
marked with ,
or
(p. 118).
1 Open the Memory Stick Duo slot
cover in the direction of the
arrow.
Cassette tape
OPEN/EJECT lever
Lid
Window
Push the center of the back of
the cassette lightly.
Cassette
compartment
“Memory Stick Duo”
{DO NOT PUSH}
Memory Stick Duo slot cover
23
Getting Started
2 Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”
into the Memory Stick Duo slot in
the right direction until it clicks.
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.
Access lamp
24
Recording/Playback
Recording
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. 82).
1 Open the shutter of the lens hood.
2 Slide the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the green button.
Lens hood
REC START/
STOP button B
POWER switch
REC START/STOP button A
Recording lamp
Recording lamp
Slide the POWER
switch while pressing
the green button.
25
Recording/Playback
3 Press the REC START/STOP button A (or B).
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. 84).
• You can change the screen display during recording (p. 53).
• Indicators displayed on the screen during recording are shown on page 136.
• The recording lamp can be set to stay off ([REC LAMP[F]], [REC LAMP[R]] p. 92).
• 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. It might be helpful if you set the LCD panel
face up or close it after turning it face down, or lift the viewfinder up during the low angle recording.
zREC
60min
REC
00:04:50:04
[STBY] t [REC]
Continued ,
26
To capture still images
1 Assign [PHOTO] to an ASSIGN button.
2 Press the ASSIGN button to which
[PHOTO] is assigned or the PHOTO
button on the Remote Commander.
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 138 for indicators that appear on the
screen during recording.
Capacity of the “Memory Stick Duo”
(MB) and the number of recordable
pictures
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)
format (16:9): 1.2M
– Recording in DVCAM (DV) format (4:3):
0.9M
– Playing back in HDV format: 1.2M
– Playing back in DVCAM (DV) format (16:9):
0.2M
– Playing back in DVCAM (DV) format (4:3):
VGA
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. 43).
1 Set the POWER switch to VCR.
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 or the
PHOTO button on your Remote
Commander 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. 53).
• 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. 91).
• 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] or [24A]
or [30] (p. 83)
1.2M
1440
×
810
0.9M
1080 ×
810
VGA
640 ×
480
0.2M
640 ×
360
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
1.2M
Recording (Continued)
27
Recording/Playback
Changing the settings of your camcorder
recordings
.
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.
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. 28),
you cannot focus on a subject within 80 cm
(about 2 5/8 feet) regardless of the zoom
position (p. 71).
• 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.
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. 71).
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
B.
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.
Adjusting the zoom
Using the zoom lever
Close view: (Telephoto)
Wide view: (Wide angle)
Using the handle zoom
Using the zoom ring
Continued ,
28
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.
– To record a stationary subject using a tripod.
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.
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. 43).
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.
9
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 restore automatic adjustment
Press the ASSIGN button to which
[FOCUS] is assigned once again.
9 disappears and the automatic focus
adjustment is restored.
z Tips
• If you want to adjust focus automatically or use
automatic adjustment functions such as one
push auto focus during manual focus
Adjusting the focus manually
ZEBRA
ASSIGN
CH1
AUDIO LEVEL
CH2
4
1
2
3
56
AE SHIFT
REC REVIEW
ASSIGN 1-6
buttons
Mode B
Mode A
Focus ring
Adjusting focus manually in mode A
Adjusting focus manually in mode B
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued)
29
Recording/Playback
adjustment, set the focus ring to mode B. You
cannot use the automatic adjustment functions
in mode A.
You can use this function only in mode B.
Do steps 1 and 2 of “Adjusting focus
manually in mode B” in advance.
1 Assign [ONE PUSH AF] to an ASSIGN
button (
p. 43).
2 Record a movie while holding the
ASSIGN button to which [ONE PUSH
AF] is assigned.
Automatic focus functions as long as
you hold the ASSIGN button (
9
disappears).
z Tips
• The focal distance is always displayed while
you turn the focus ring in mode A. In mode B,
the focal distance is displayed for about 3
seconds in the following cases:
– When you press the ASSIGN button to which
[
FOCUS] is assigned (9 appears on the
screen).
– When you turn the focus ring while 9 is
displayed on the screen.
The focal distance is not displayed when you
use non-Carl Zeiss lenses.
During standby, press the ASSIGN button
to which [EXP.FOCUS] is assigned.
[EXPANDED FOCUS] appears and the
center of the screen is magnified by about
2.0 times. It will be easier to confirm the
focus setting during manual focusing. The
screen returns to the original size when you
press the button again.
b Notes
• You cannot use the expanded focus when [REC
CTL MODE] in [EXT REC CTRL] is set to
other than [OFF] (p. 85).
• The center of the screen is magnified by about
1.5 times when [SCAN TYPE] in [HDV
PROGRE.] or [DV PROGRE.] of the (IN/
OUT REC) menu is set to [24], [24A], or [30].
• The screen returns to the original size when you
start recording during the expanded focus
display.
z Tips
• You can select a type of an expanded image
displayed during the expanded focus
([EXP.FOCUS TYPE] p. 79).
b Notes
• Focus infinity is available when the focus ring is
set to the mode B position. It is not available
during the auto focus.
1 Assign [FOCUS INFNTY] to an
ASSIGN button (p. 43).
2 Press the ASSIGN button to which
[FOCUS INFNTY] is assigned.
appears on the screen.
If you release the button, your camcorder
returns to the manual focus mode. This
function enables you to set focus on a distant
subject even when the focus is automatically
set on a close subject.
Using automatic focus temporarily
(One push auto focus)
Using the expanded focus (Expanded
focus)
Focusing on a distant subject (Focus
infinity)
Continued ,
30
You can manually adjust the iris to control
the volume of the light entering the lens. By
adjusting the iris, you can change or close
the aperture of the lens, which is expressed
as an F value between F1.6 and F11. The
volume of the light increases the more that
you open the aperture (decreasing F value).
The volume of the light decreases the more
that you close the aperture (increasing F
value). The current F value appears on the
screen.
1 During recording or standby, set the
AUTO/MANUAL switch F to
MANUAL.
2 Set the IRIS switch B to MAN.
3 Adjust the iris with the iris ring C.
During the manual iris adjustment, you
can temporarily return to the auto iris
adjustment while holding down the
PUSH AUTO button A.
z Tips
• The F value becomes close to F2.0 as the zoom
position changes from W to T even when you
open the aperture by setting the F value lower
than F2.0, such as F1.6.
• The range of focus, an important effect of the
aperture, is called the depth of field. The depth
of field gets shallower as the aperture is opened,
and deeper as the aperture is closed. Use the
aperture creatively to obtain the desired effect in
your photography.
• This is handy for making the background
blurred or sharp.
To adjust the iris automatically
Set the IRIS switch B or
AUTO/MANUAL switch F to AUTO.
b Notes
• When you set the AUTO/MANUAL switch F
to AUTO, other manually adjusted items (gain,
shutter speed, white balance) also become
automatic.
.
You can record the subject clearly by using
the ND filter D when the recording
environment is too bright. If you do not
want to reduce the volume of light, use the
ND filter 1. The ND filters 2, 3 and 4
reduce the volume of light to about 1/4,
1/16 and 1/64, respectively.
If the ND icon flashes during the iris
automatic adjustment, set the ND filter D
to the position that the icon indicates. The
ND icon does not flash during the manual
iris adjustment.
b Notes
• If you change the ND filters D during
recording, the movie and sound may be
distorted.
• will flash when your camcorder cannot
detect the ND filter positions (1/2/3/4). Check
the ND filter position.
Adjusting the exposure
Adjusting the iris
L
GAIN WHT BAL
SHUTTER
SPEED
AUTO MANUAL
SEL / PUSH EXEC
MENU
M
H
B
A
PRESET
MAN
PUSH AUTO
IRIS
TW
AUTO
Adjusting the volume of light
(ND filter)
Changing the settings of your camcorder recordings (Continued)
Loading...