Sony NEX-VG20H Operating Guide
4-291-370-21(2)
Additional information on this product and
answers to frequently asked questions can be
found at our Customer Support Website.
US/FR
Interchangeable Lens Digital
HD Video Camera Recorder/
Caméscope numérique HD à
objectif interchangeable
E-mount
Operating Guide US
Mode d’emploi FR
De plus amples renseignements à propos de ce
produit et des réponses aux questions fréquemment
posées sont disponibles sur le site Web de
l’Assistance à la clientèle.
http://www.sony.net/
2011 Sony Corporation
Printed in Japan
NEX-VG20/VG20H
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. NEXSerial No.
Model No. ACSerial No.
WARNING
To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
Do not expose the batteries to
excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or
the like.
This symbol is intended
to alert the user to the
presence of important
operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in
the literature accompanying
the appliance.
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.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
DANGER - TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE
OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
CAREFULLY FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS.
Read these instructions.
Keep these instructions.
Heed all warnings.
Follow all instructions.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Clean only with dry cloth.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug
has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a
third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the
obsolete outlet.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or
sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus
has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has
been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to
rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the
proper configuration for the power outlet.
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Representative plug of power supply cord of countries/regions around the world.
A Type
(American
Type)
B Type
(British Type)
BF Type
(British Type)
B3 Type
(British Type)
C Type
(CEE Type)
SE Type
(CEE Type)
(Ocean Type)
The representative supply voltage and plug type are described in this chart.
Depend on an area, Different type of plug and supply voltage are used.
Attention: Power cord meeting demands from each country shall be used.
For only the United States
Use a UL Listed, 1.5-3 m (5-10 ft.), Type SPT-2 or NISPT-2, AWG no. 18 power supply
cord, rated for 125 V 7 A, with a NEMA 1-15P plug rated for 125 V 15 A.”
Europe
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Austria 230 50 C
Belgium 230 50 C
Czech 220 50 C
Denmark 230 50 C
Finland 230 50 C
France 230 50 C
Germany 230 50 C
Greece 220 50 C
Hungary 220 50 C
Iceland 230 50 C
Ireland 230 50 C/BF
Italy 220 50 C
Luxemburg 230 50 C
Netherlands 230 50 C
Norway 230 50 C
Poland 220 50 C
Portugal 230 50 C
Romania 220 50 C
Russia 220 50 C
Slovak 220 50 C
Spain 127/230 50 C
Sweden 230 50 C
Switzerland 230 50 C
UK 240 50 BF
Asia
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
China 220 50 A
Hong Kong 200/220 50 BF
India 230/240 50 C
Indonesia 127/230 50 C
Japan 100 50/60 A
Korea (rep) 220 60 C
Malaysia 240 50 BF
Philippines 220/230 60 A/C
Singapore 230 50 BF
Taiwan 110 60 A
Thailand 220 50 C/BF
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O Type
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Vietnam 220 50 A/C
Oceania
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Australia 240 50 O
New Zealand 230/240 50 O
North America
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Canada 120 60 A
USA 120 60 A
Central America
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Bahamas 120/240 60 A
Costa Rica 110 60 A
Cuba 110/220 60 A/C
Dominican (rep) 110 60 A
El Salvador 110 60 A
Guatemala 120 60 A
Honduras 110 60 A
Jamaica 110 50 A
Mexico 120/127 60 A
Nicaragua 120/240 60 A
Panama 110/220 60 A
South America
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Argentina 220 50 C/BF/O
Brazil 127/220 60 A/C
Chile 220 50 C
Colombia 120 60 A
Peru 220 60 A/C
Venezuela 120 60 A
Middle East
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Iran 220 50 C/BF
Iraq 220 50 C/BF
Israel 230 50 C
Saudi Arabia 127/220 50 A/C/BF
Turkey 220 50 C
UAE 240 50 C/BF
Africa
Countries/regions Voltage Frequency (Hz) Plug type
Algeria 127/220 50 C
Congo (dem) 220 50 C
Egypt 220 50 C
Ethiopia 220 50 C
Kenya 240 50 C/BF
Nigeria 230 50 C/BF
South Africa 220/230 50 C/BF
Tanzania 230 50 C/BF
Tunisia 220 50 C
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Read this first
Before operating the unit, please read this
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future
reference.
CAUTION
Battery pack
If the battery pack is mishandled, the
battery pack can burst, cause a fire or even
chemical burns. Observe the following
cautions.
Do not disassemble.
Do not crush and do not expose the battery
pack to any shock or force such as hammering,
dropping or stepping on it.
Do not short circuit and do not allow metal
objects to come into contact with the battery
terminals.
Do not expose to high temperature above 60°C
(140°F) such as in direct sunlight or in a car
parked in the sun.
Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire.
Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion
batteries.
Be sure to charge the battery pack using a
genuine Sony battery charger or a device that
can charge the battery pack.
Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small
children.
Keep the battery pack dry.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by Sony.
Dispose of used battery packs promptly as
described in the instructions.
Replace the battery with the specified type
only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result.
AC Adaptor
Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a
narrow space, such as between a wall and
furniture.
Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket)
when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect
the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet (wall
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socket) immediately if any malfunction
occurs while using your camcorder.
Note on the power cord (mains lead)
The power cord (mains lead) is designed
specifically for use with this camcorder
only, and should not be used with other
electrical equipment.
Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC
power source (mains) is still supplied to
it while connected to the wall outlet (wall
socket) via the AC Adaptor.
Excessive sound pressure from earphones
and headphones can cause hearing loss.
For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA
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 1-800-822- 8837, or visit
http://www.rbrc.org/
Caution: Do not handle
damaged or leaking LithiumIon batteries.
Battery pack and lens
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
This Class B digital apparatus complies
with Canadian ICES-003.
For the customers in the U.S.A.
UL is an internationally recognized safety
organization.
The UL Mark on the product means it has
been UL Listed.
If you have any questions about this
product, you may call:
Sony Customer Information Center 1-800222-SONY (7669).
The number below is for the FCC related
matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: NEX-VG20
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, 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
following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and
can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance
with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following
measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on
a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/
TV technician for help.
The supplied interface cable must be used
with the equipment in order to comply with
the limits for a digital device pursuant to
Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
For the State of California , USA only
Perchlorate Material – special handling may
apply,
See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
perchlorate
Perchlorate Material: Lithium battery
contains perchlorate.
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
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Using the camcorder
Do not hold the camcorder by the following
parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by
the jack covers.
Viewfinder LCD Screen
Lens (NEX-VG20H) Lens hood (NEX-VG20H)
Built-in microphone
The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed
or waterproofed. See “Precautions” (p. 68).
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 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. These
points are normal results of the manufacturing
process and do not affect the recording in any
way.
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Black points
White, red, blue or green points
Do not record the sun or leave the camcorder
under the sun for a long time. The inside of
the camcorder may be damaged. If sunlight is
focused on a nearby object, it may cause a fire.
When you must place the camcorder under
direct sunlight, attach the lens cap.
Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder or the
lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time
may cause malfunctions.
Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause
your camcorder to malfunction. Take images
of the sun only in low light conditions, such as
at dusk.
Do not look at the sun or a strong light through
a removed lens. This may cause irrecoverable
damage to your eyes.
About language setting
The on-screen displays in each local language
are used for illustrating the operating
procedures. Change the screen language before
sing the camcorder if necessary (p. 26).
u
On recording
To ensure stable operation of the memory
card, it is recommended to format the memory
card with your camcorder before the first
use. Formatting the memory card will erase
all the data stored on it and the data will be
irrecoverable. Save your important data on your
PC etc.
Before starting to record, test the recording
function to make sure the image 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, memory card, etc.
TV color systems differ depending on the
country/region. To view your recordings on a
TV, you need a 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.
Use the camcorder in accordance with local
regulations.
Notes on playing back
You may not be able to play back normally
images recorded on your camcorder with other
devices. Also, you may not be able to play back
images recorded on other devices with your
camcorder.
Standard (STD) image quality movies recorded
on SD memory cards cannot be played on AV
equipment of other manufacturers.
DVD media recorded with HD image
quality (high definition)
DVD media recorded with high definition
image quality (HD) can be played back with
devices that are compatible with the AVCHD
standard. You cannot play discs recorded with
high definition image quality (HD) with DVD
players/recorders as they are not compatible
with the AVCHD format. If you insert a disc
recorded with the AVCHD format (high
definition image quality (HD)) into a DVD
player/recorder, you may not be able to eject
the disc.
Save all your recorded image data
To prevent your image data from being lost,
save all your recorded images on external media
periodically. To save images on your computer,
see page 45, and to save images on external
devices, see page 53.
The type of discs or media on which the images
can be saved depend on the [
selected when the images were recorded.
Movies recorded in [60p Quality
[Highest Quality
] can be saved on external
media or on Blu-ray di
REC Mode]
] or
scs (p. 53).
Notes on battery pack/AC Adaptor
Be sure to remove the battery pack or the AC
Adaptor after turning off the camcorder.
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
camcorder, holding both the camcorder and the
DC plug.
Note on the camcorder/battery pack
temperature
When the temperature of the camcorder
or battery pack becomes extremely high or
extremely low, you may not be able to record
or play back on the camcorder, due to the
protection features of the camcorder being
activated in such situations. In this case, an
indicator appears on the LCD screen or on the
viewfinder.
When the camcorder is connected to a
computer or accessories
Do not try to format the memory card of the
camcorder using a computer. If you do so, your
camcorder may not operate correctly.
When connecting the camcorder to another
device with communication cables, be sure to
insert the connector plug in the correct way.
Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal
will damage the terminal and may result in a
malfunction of the camcorder.
If you cannot record/play back images,
perform [Format]
If you repeat recording/deleting images for
a long time, fragmentation of data occurs on
the memory card. Images cannot be saved or
recorded. In such a case, save your images on
some type of external media first, and then
perform [Format] by touching
[Setup] [
[Format]
( Media Settings)]
.
(MENU)
Notes on optional accessories
We recommend using genuine Sony accessories.
Genuine Sony accessories may not be available
in some countries/regions.
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About this manual, illustrations and
on-screen displays
The example images used in this manual for
illustration purposes are captured using a
digital still camera, and therefore may appear
different from images and screen indicators that
actually appear on your camcorder. And, the
illustrations of your camcorder and its screen
indication are exaggerated or simplified for
understandability.
In this manual, the DVD disc recorded with
high definition image quality (HD) is called
AVCHD recording disc.
Design and specifications of your camcorder
and accessories are subject to change without
notice.
Notes on use
Do not do any of the following. Otherwise,
the memory card may be damaged, recorded
images may be impossible to play back or may
be lost, or other malfunctions could occur.
ejecting the memory card when the access
amp (p. 30) is lit or flashing
l
removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor
from the camcorder, or applying mechanical
shock or vibration to the camcorder when the
(Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 33) or the
access lamp (p. 30) are lit or flashing
When using a shoulder belt (sold separately), do
not crash the camcorder against an object.
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Table of contents
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . . 3
Read this first .. . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . .. 6
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items . . . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . 13
Step 2: Attaching the supplied accessories . . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. 15
Step 3: Charging the battery pack . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . . 16
Charging the battery pack abroad . . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . 18
Step 4: Attaching the lens . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . 19
Step 5: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time . .. . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. 24
Changing the language setting . . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . 26
Step 6: Making setting adjustments before recording . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... 27
Step 7: Inserting a memory card .. . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . . 30
Recording/Playback
Recording . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . 32
Selecting the recording mode . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. 35
Adjusting for shooting conditions . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . . 36
Playback on the camcorder . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. 37
Playing images on a TV . .. . . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. 41
Advanced operations
Deleting movies and photos. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . 44
Table of contents
Saving movies and photos with a computer
Useful functions available if you connect the camcorder to a computer . .. . .. . ... . .. 45
Preparing a computer . .. . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... 46
When using a Macintosh . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... 46
Starting PMB (Picture Motion Browser) . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . .. 49
Using “Image Data Converter”. ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . . 50
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Saving images with an external device
Selecting a method for saving images with an external device . . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . .. 51
Saving images on an external media device . . . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . 53
Creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc with such as a Sony DVD writer,
etc. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . . 56
Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc with a recorder, etc. . . .. . .. 57
Customizing your camcorder
Using menus .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . 59
Getting detailed information from the “Handycam” Handbook . . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . .. 63
Additional information
Troubleshooting .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... 64
Recording time of movies/number of recordable photos .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . 66
Precautions . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . . 68
Specifications .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. 70
Quick reference
Screen indicators . .. . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. 73
Parts and controls . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... 75
Index . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. . .. . ... . .. . ... . .. 78
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Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure that you have following items
supplied with your camcorder.
The numbers in ( ) are the supplied
quantity.
All models
This camcorder (1)
Body cap (attached to camcorder NEX-
VG20; supplied but not attached to other
odels) (1) (p. 19)
m
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 16)
Power cord (mains lead) (1) (p. 16)
USB cable (1) (p. 53)
Wireless Remote Commander (RMT-
835) (1)
A button-type lithium battery is already
installed.
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FV70)
(1) (p. 16)
Wind Screen (1) (p. 15)
Getting Started
Component A/V Cable (1) (p. 41)
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 41)
Large eyecup (1) (p. 29)
CD-ROM “Handycam” Application
Software (1) (p
“PMB” (Software, including “PMB Help”)
Image Data Converter (RAW development
software)
“Handycam” Handbook (PDF)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
. 46)
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14
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NEX-VG20H
Zoom lens (E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS)
(attached to the camcorder) (1) (p. 19)
Lens hood (1) (p. 23)
Front lens cap (attached to the lens) (1)
(p. 19)
Rear lens cap (1) (p. 19)
Step 2: Attaching the supplied accessories
Attaching the lens
See page 19 for information on attaching
the lens. The NEX-VG20 does not come
with the E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS
lens. Please use appropriate lenses (sold
separately).
For NEX-VG20H models, the lens is
attached to the camcorder at the time of
purchase.
Attaching the Wind Screen
Use the Wind Screen when you want to
reduce the wind noise recorded by the
microphone. Attach the Wind Screen with
the Sony logo facing down.
Getting Started
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16
US
Step 3: Charging the battery pack
DC IN jack
Battery pack
CHG (charge) lamp
Align the mark on the DC plug
with that on the DC IN jack.
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your
camcorder.
Notes
You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder.
You cannot attach the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack NP-FV30/FV50, even though they are V series.
Slide the POWER switch to OFF (the default setting).
1
Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it
2
clicks.
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your
3
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp turns off
when the battery pack is fully charged.
AC Adaptor
DC plug
Power cord
(Mains lead)
To the wall outlet
(wall socket)
When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN
4
jack of your camcorder.
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.
Battery pack Charging time
NP-FV70 (supplied) 195
NP-FV100 390
The charging times shown in the table above are measured when charging the camcorder at a
temperature of 25
C to 30 C (50 °F to 86 °F).
10
Tips
See page 66 on recording and playing time.
When your camcorder is on, you can check the approximate amount of remaining battery power with the
remaining battery indicator at the upper right on the LCD screen.
To remove the battery pack
Slide the POWER switch to OFF. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever () and remove the
battery pack ().
C (77 °F). It is recommended that you charge the battery in a temperature range of
Getting Started
BATT (battery) release lever
To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source
Make the same connections as “Step 3: Charging the battery pack” (p. 16). Even if the battery
pack is attached, the battery pack is not discharged.
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18
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Notes on the battery pack
When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, turn the camcorder off and make sure
that the
The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions:
(Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 33), the access lamp (p. 30) are turned off.
The battery pack is not attached correctly.
The battery pack is damaged.
The temperature of the battery pack is low.
Remove the battery pack from your camcorder and put it in a warm place.
The temperature of the battery pack is high.
Remove the battery pack from your camcorder and put it in a cool place.
In the default setting, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any
operation for about 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A. Shut Off]).
Notes on the AC Adaptor
Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from
the wall outlet (wall socket) immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.
Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.
Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This
may cause a malfunction.
Note on the power cord (Mains lead)
The power cord (Mains lead) is designed specifically for use with this camcorder only, and should not be
used with other electrical equipment.
Charging the battery pack abroad
You can charge the battery pack in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with
your camcorder within the AC 100 V - 240
Do not use an electronic voltage transformer.
V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.
Step 4: Attaching the lens
This manual explains how to attach a lens using the E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens that
comes with NEX-VG20H (the lens is attached to the camcorder at the time of purchase).
If you use another lens, refer to the instruction manual supplied with that lens.
Front lens cap
Getting Started
Zoom lock switch
Zoom ring
Hood index
Focusing ring
Mounting index
* This switch prevents the lens cylinder from being extended by its own weight when it is being
transported, etc. Turn the zoom ring back toward the W-end, and slide the switch toward to lock it. To
unlock it, set the switch to the original position.
** Do not touch or dirty the lens contacts.
*
Focal-length scale
Focal-length index
Rear lens cap
Lens contacts
**
Remove the body cap from the camcorder body and the packaging lid from
the rear of the lens.
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Mount the lens by aligning the mounting indexes (white) on the lens and
the camcorder body. While pushing the lens lightly toward the camcorder
body, turn the lens clockwise until it clicks into the locked position.
Be sure to put the lens on straight.
Mounting indexes (white)
Notes
When attaching a lens, do not press the lens release button.
Do not use force when attaching a lens. Mounting the lens forcibly may result in a malfunction or damage
of the lens mount.
There may be some slight movement of the lens in the locked position, depending on the lens used. This
is not a malfunction.
Hold the camcorder body with the front end downward, and quickly change the lens somewhere away
from dusty locations so as to keep dust or debris from getting inside the camcorder body.
Removing the lens
While pressing the lens release button all the way in, turn the lens
counterclockwise until it stops.
When you remove the lens, make sure that you hold both of the lens and the camcorder body.
Lens release button
Replace the packaging lid on the lens and attach the body cap to the
camcorder body.
Align the mark on the body cap to the mounting indexes, and turn the cap clockwise.
Before you attach caps, remove dust from them.
Getting Started
Align the marks.
Notes
When changing the lens, if dust or debris gets inside the camcorder body and adheres to the surface of
the image sensor (the part that acts as the film), it may appear on the image, depending on the shooting
conditions. The image sensor is applied with the anti-dust coating, to prevent dust from adhering to the
image sensor. However, attach or remove the lens quickly somewhere away from dusty locations.
Do not leave the camcorder body with the lens and body cap removed.
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If dust or debris adheres on the image sensor
Turn off the camcorder and detach the lens. Clean the image sensor and the surrounding area
using a blower (sold separately), and then reattach the lens.
Notes
Do not use a spray blower because it may scatter water droplets inside the camcorder body.
Do not put the tip of a blower into the cavity beyond the mount, so that the tip of the blower does not
touch the image sensor.
Hold the camcorder’s face downward to prevent the dust from resettling in the camcorder.
Do not apply a mechanical shock to the camcorder during cleaning.
If you cannot clean the image sensor by the above procedure, consult your Sony dealer or local authorized
Sony service facility.
Mount Adaptor
Using a Mount Adaptor (sold separately), you can attach an A-mount lens (sold separately) to
your camera. For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the Mount Adaptor.
The available functions differ depending on the Mount Adaptor type.
Functions LA-EA1 LA-EA2
Autofocus
AF system
AF/MF Select
Available with SAM/
SSM lens only
*
Contrast AF Phase-detection AF
Switchable on the lens SAM/SSM lenses: switchable on the lens
Available
Other lenses: switchable on the FOCUS
button
Autofocus Mode (Only
Single Single/Continuous
photo mode)
* With LA-EA1, autofocus speed with an A-mount lens attached will be slower compared to an E-mount
lens. (When an A-mount lens is attached, the autofocus speed will be about 2 seconds to 7 seconds, when
shooting under Sony measurement condition. The speed may vary depending on the subject, ambient
light, etc.)
Notes
Some lenses may not be usable or may have limited functionality. Check the dedicated support web site or
consult your local authorized Sony service facility on compatible lenses.
The sound of the lens and the camera in operation may be recorded during movie recording. You can
avoid this by setting Audio Rec Level to minimum. Touch
( Microphone)] [Audio Rec Level].
[
It may take a long time or may be difficult for the camera to focus, depending on the lens used or the
subject.
(MENU) [Camera/Mic]
To attach the lens hood
Align the red line of the lens hood to that of the lens and mount the lens hood on the lens.
Turn the lens hood clockwise until the red dot of the lens hood and the red line of the lens
align with a click.
Getting Started
When storing the lens, fit the lens hood onto the lens backwards.
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Step 5: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time
Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button.
1
POWER switch
Select the desired language, then touch [Next].
2
Touch the button on the
Select the desired geographical area with
3
To set the date and time again, touch (MENU) [Setup] [ ( Clock Settings)]
[Date & Time Setting] [Date & Time]. When an item is not on the screen, touch
until the item appears.
LCD screen
/ , then touch [Next].
/
Set [Daylight Savings] or [Summer Time], then touch [Next].
4
If you set [Daylight Savings] or [Summer Time] to [On], the clock advances 1 hour.
Select the date format, then touch [Next].
5
Select the date and time, touch
6
[Next]
* The confirmation screen appears only when you set the clock for the first time.
*.
/ to set the value, then touch
Getting Started
The clock starts.
Notes
The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the memory
card, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, touch
[Setup] [
You can turn off the operation beeps by touching
Settings)] [Beep] [Off]
If the button you touch does not react correctly, calibrate the touch panel.
( Playback Settings)] [Data Code] [Date/Time] .
(MENU) [Setup] [ ( General
.
(MENU)
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To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF.
(Movie) lamp flashes for a few seconds and the camcorder is turned off.
The
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.
Touch
desired language
(MENU) [Setup] [ ( General Settings)] [Language Setting] a
.
Step 6: Making setting adjustments before recording
The LCD panel
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and then adjust the angle ().
Max. 90 degrees
Max. 180 degrees
Tips
Images are displayed on the viewfinder or the LCD screen.
Press FINDER/LCD to select whether you want to display the image on the viewfinder or the LCD
screen.
You can also select those display locations by opening or closing the LCD screen.
FINDER/LCD enables you to use the viewfinder without closing the LCD panel, so you can operate
buttons which are hidden when the LCD screen is closed.
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen with [LCD Brightness ].
FINDER/LCD button
Max. 90 degrees
Changing the display on the LCD screen
Press DISPLAY to cycle the screen display in the following order:
Recording: Detailed display simple display minimum display
Playing: Detailed display minimum display
Getting Started
DISPLAY button
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Tips
In the default setting, the screen display changes to the simple display after about 4 seconds ([Display
Setting]). The display changes to the detailed display when you touch anywhere on the screen except the
buttons on the LCD screen so that you can use items.
about 4 sec
after
The viewfinder
When you record while viewing through the viewfinder, close the LCD panel, or press
FINDER/LCD (p
viewfinder lens adjustment lever located beneath the viewfinder.
Notes
You may see colors (red, blue, green) shimmering in the viewfinder when you move your line of sight.
This is not a malfunction. The shimmering colors will not be recorded on the memory card.
Tips
You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder backlight from [VF Brightness].
. 76). If the indications in the viewfinder appear blurred, adjust the
If the image is not clear in the viewfinder
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.
Large eyecup (supplied)
Attach the projection to be
straight.
Notes
Do not remove the pre-attached eyecup.
Getting Started
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Step 7: Inserting a memory card
Access lamp
Note the direction of notched corner.
Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the notched edge in the
1
direction as illustrated until it clicks.
The [Preparing image database file. Please wait.] screen appears if you insert a new
memory card. Wait until the screen disappears.
Close the cover.
2
Notes
If [Failed to create a new Image Database File. It may be possible that there is not enough free space.] is
displayed, format the memory card.
Confirm the direction of the memory card. If you forcibly insert the memory card in the wrong direction,
the memory card, memory card slot, or image data may be damaged.
Do not open the cover during recording.
When inserting or ejecting the memory card, be careful so that the memory card does not pop out and
drop.
To eject the memory card
Open the cover and lightly push the memory card in once.
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