4-149-357-11(1)
Table of contents
7
HDR-CX500E/CX500VE/
CX505VE/CX520E/CX520VE
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
2009 Sony Corporation
compliance.sony.de/
and human health, which could otherwise
be caused by inappropriate waste handling
of this product. The recycling of materials
will help to conserve natural resources.
For more detailed information about
recycling of this product, please contact
your local Civic Office, your household
waste disposal service or the shop where
you purchased the product.
Notice for the customers in the
countries applying EU Directives
(HDR-CX500E/CX520E)
The manufacturer of this product is Sony
Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku
Tokyo, 108-0075 Japan. The Authorized
Representative for EMC and product safety
is Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger
Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For
any service or guarantee matters please
refer to the addresses given in separate
service or guarantee documents.
Applicable Accessory : Wireless Remote
Commander
Disposal of waste batteries
(applicable in the European
Union and other European
countries with separate
collection systems)
ATTENTION
The electromagnetic fields at the specific
frequencies may influence the picture and
sound of this unit.
This product has been tested and found
compliant with the limits set out in the
EMC Directive for using connection cables
shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).
This symbol on the battery or on the
packaging indicates that the battery
provided with this product shall not be
treated as household waste.
On certain batteries this symbol might
be used in combination with a chemical
symbol. The chemical symbols for mercury
(Hg) or lead (Pb) are added if the battery
contains more than 0.0005% mercury or
0.004% lead.
By ensuring these batteries are disposed of
correctly, you will help prevent potentially
negative consequences for the environment
and human health which could otherwise
be caused by inappropriate waste handling
of the battery. The recycling of the materials
will help to conserve natural resources.
In case of products that for safety,
Notice
If static electricity or electromagnetism
causes data transfer to discontinue midway
(fail), restart the application or disconnect
and connect the communication cable
(USB, etc.) again.
Disposal of Old Electrical &
Electronic Equipment
(Applicable in the European
Union and other European
countries with separate
collection systems)
performance or data integrity reasons
require a permanent connection with an
incorporated battery, this battery should
be replaced by qualified service staff only.
To ensure that the battery will be treated
properly, hand over the product at end-of-
life to the applicable collection point for
the recycling of electrical and electronic
equipment.
This symbol on the product or on its
packaging indicates that this product shall
not be treated as household waste. Instead
it shall be handed over to the applicable
collection point for the recycling of
electrical and electronic equipment.
By ensuring this product is disposed of
correctly, you will help prevent potential
negative consequences for the environment
For all other batteries, please view the
section on how to remove the battery from
the product safely. Hand the battery over
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3
or waterproofed. See “Precautions” (p. 55).
Do not do any of the following when the
recording media may be damaged, recorded
images may be lost or other malfunctions could
occur.
to the applicable collection point for the
recycling of waste batteries.
For more detailed information about
recycling of this product or battery, please
contact your local Civic Office, your
household waste disposal service or the
shop where you purchased the product.
ejecting the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor
from the camcorder
Supplied items
Applying mechanical shock or vibration to
the camcorder
Do not apply shock or vibration to the
camcorder. The camcorder may not be able to
record or play movies and photos.
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.
Even if the camcorder is turned off, the
GPS function is working as long as the
GPS switch is set to ON. Make sure that
the GPS switch is set to OFF during
The numbers in ( ) are the supplied
quantity.
AC Adaptor (1)
Power cord (Mains lead) (1)
Component A/V cable (1)
A/V connecting cable (1)
USB cable (1)
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
A button-type lithium battery is already
installed. Remove the insulation sheet before
using the Wireless Remote Commander.
Insulation sheet
take off and landing of an airplane
(HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/CX520VE).
If you repeat recording/deleting images for
a long time, fragmentation of data occurs on
the recording media. Images cannot be saved
or recorded. In such a case, save your images
on some type of external media first, and then
perform [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 41).
The LCD screen is 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.
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60 (1)
CD-ROM “Handycam” Application
Software (1) (p. 24)
“PMB” (software, including “PMB Guide”)
“Handycam” Handbook (PDF)
“Operating Guide” (This manual) (1)
can use with this camcorder.
Notes on use
Note on the camcorder/battery pack
temperature
When the temperature of the camcorder
or battery pack becomes extremely high or
Using the camcorder
The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed
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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 (p. 54).
recorder may fail to eject the media and may
erase its contents without warning. DVD media
containing AVCHD footage may be played on
a compatible Blu-ray Disc player/recorder or
other compatible device.
On recording
About language setting
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, recording media, etc.
TV color systems differ depending on the
country/region. To view your recordings on a
TV, you need a PAL 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 on-screen displays in each local language
are used for illustrating the operating
procedures. Change the screen language before
using the camcorder if necessary (p. 12).
About this manual
The images of the LCD screen used in this
manual for illustration purposes are captured
using a digital still camera, and therefore may
appear different from the actual images of the
LCD screen.
In this Operating Guide, the internal memory
of the camcorder and “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media are called “recording media.”
To prevent your image data from being lost,
save all your recorded images on external media
periodically. It is recommended that you save
the image data on a disc such as DVD-R using
your computer. Also, you can save your image
data using a VCR, or a DVD/HDD recorder.
In this Operating Guide, both “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO-HG
Duo” media are referred as “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media.
You will find the “Handycam” Handbook (PDF)
on the supplied CD-ROM (p. 52).
The screenshots are from Windows Vista. The
scenes may vary depending on the operating
system of the computer.
Playing back recorded images on other
devices
The camcorder is compatible with MPEG-4
AVC/H.264 High Profile for high definition
image quality (HD) recording. Therefore, you
cannot play back images recorded with high
definition image quality (HD) on the camcorder
with the following devices;
Other AVCHD format compatible devices
which are not compatible with High Profile
Devices which are not compatible with the
AVCHD format
Discs recorded with HD image quality
(high definition)
This camcorder captures high definition footage
in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing
AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD
based players or recorders, as the DVD player/
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Operation flow
Recording movies and photos (p. 13)
In the default settings, movies and photos are recorded with high
definition image quality (HD) on the internal memory.
You can change the recording media selected, and the image
quality of movies (p. 43).
Playing movies and photos
Playing movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 18)
Playing movies and photos on a connected TV (p. 21)
Saving movies and photos on a disc
Saving movies and photos with a computer (p. 23)
You can create a disc with either high definition image quality
(HD) or standard definition image quality (SD) from high
definition image quality (HD) movies imported to the computer.
Creating a disc with a DVD writer or a recorder (p. 34)
Deleting movies and photos (p. 41)
You can free recording space by deleting movies and photos
that you have saved on other media, from the your camcorder’s
media.
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Table of contents
Read this first.. . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Operation flow.. . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Step 1: Charging the battery pack.................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Charging the battery pack abroad........................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Changing the language setting................................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Recording.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
CX520VE).. . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Playback on the camcorder............................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Playing images on a TV................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Preparing a computer (Windows).................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
When using a Macintosh....................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Selecting the method for creating a disc (computer)............. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Creating a disc with one touch (One Touch Disc Burn)............ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Importing movies and photos to a computer (Easy PC Back-up).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Starting PMB (Picture Motion Browser).............................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Creating a Blu-ray disc.......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
ordinary DVD players.. ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Copying a disc.. ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Editing movies................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Capturing photos from a movie............................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
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Selecting the method for creating a disc (DVD writer/recorder).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Creating a disc with the dedicated DVD writer, DVDirect Express.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
DVDirect Express.. . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Deleting movies and photos.............................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Adjusting for shooting conditions...................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Changing the recording media.......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
To check the recording media settings........................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
“Memory Stick PRO Duo”media................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Customizing your camcorder with menus............................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Getting detailed information from the “Handycam”Handbook.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Troubleshooting.. . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Precautions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Specifications.. . . . . . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Screen indicators.. . . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Parts and controls.. . . . . . . .................................................. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Index.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
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Getting started
Step 1: Charging the battery pack
Access lamp
Battery pack
DC IN jack
/CHG (flash/charge)
lamp
DC plug
AC Adaptor
To the wall outlet
(wall socket)
Power cord (Mains lead)
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) after attaching it to your
camcorder.
You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than H series to your camcorder.
Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen.
1
Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it
clicks.
2
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
Align the mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack.
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. The /CHG (flash/charge)
lamp turns off when the battery pack is fully charged.
3
When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN
jack of your camcorder.
4
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When your camcorder is on, you can check the approximate amount of remaining battery power with the
remaining battery indicator at the upper left on the LCD screen.
To remove the battery pack
Close the LCD screen. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever and remove the battery pack
.
To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source
Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack.”
Notes on the battery pack and the AC Adaptor
When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, close the LCD screen and make sure
that the
The /CHG (flash/charge) lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions:
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.
Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This
may cause a malfunction.
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]).
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 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.
Do not use an electronic voltage transformer.
1G0B
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the
date and time
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
1
The lens cover is opened and your camcorder is turned on.
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER.
POWER button
MODE button
(Movie): To record movies
(Photo): To record photos
Select the desired geographical area with
/
, then touch [NEXT].
2
3
Touch the button on the
LCD screen.
To set the date and time again, touch
(MENU)
[CLOCK/ LANG] (under
[GENERAL SET] category) [CLOCK SET]. When an item is not on the screen, touch
until the item appears.
/
Set [SUMMERTIME], date and time, then touch
.
The clock starts.
If you set [SUMMERTIME] to [ON], the clock advances 1 hour.
The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the
recording media, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, touch
(MENU)
[DATE/TIME]
[PLAYBACK SET] (under
[PLAYBACK] category) [DATA CODE]
.
You can turn off the operation beeps by touching
(MENU) [SOUND/DISP SET]
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(under
[GENERAL SET] category) [BEEP] [OFF]
.
Once the clock is set, the clock time is automatically adjusted with [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO
AREA ADJ] set to [ON]. The clock may not be adjusted to the correct time automatically, depending
on the country/region selected for your camcorder. In this case, set [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO
AREA ADJ] to [OFF] (HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/CX520VE).
To turn off the power
Close the LCD screen. The (Movie) lamp flashes for a few seconds and the power is turned
off.
POWER button
You can turn off your camcorder also by pressing POWER.
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.
Touch
(MENU)
[CLOCK/ LANG] (under [GENERAL SET]
category) [ LANGUAGE SET] a desired language
.
1G2B
Recording
Recording
Recording movies
In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD) on the
internal memory (p. 43, 48).
Fasten the grip belt.
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
The lens cover is opened and your camcorder is turned on.
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER.
POWER button
Press START/STOP to start recording.
You can start recording also by touching on the LCD screen.
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13
Power zoom lever
Wide Telephoto
[STBY] [REC]
To stop recording, press START/STOP again.
You can stop recording also by touching on the LCD screen.
You can magnify images with the power zoom lever. Move the power zoom lever slightly for a
slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
The icons and indicators on the LCD panel will be displayed for about 3 seconds, then they will be
disappeared, after turning on your camcorder or switching the recording (movie/photo)/playback
modes. To display the icons and indicators again, touch anywhere on the screen except the rec &
zoom buttons on the LCD.
Rec & zoom buttons on LCD
about 3sec
after
If you close the LCD screen while recording movies, the camcorder stops recording.
The maximum continuous recordable time of movies is about 13 hours.
When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next movie file is created automatically.
[ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ACTIVE] in the default setting.
To adjust the angle of the LCD panel, first open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and
then adjust the angle (). If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the lens side (), you can record
movies/photos in mirror mode.
1G4B
90 degrees (max.)
90 degrees to
the camcorder
180 degrees (max.)
In the default setting, white frames appear around detected faces, and the image quality in and around
those faces is optimized automatically ([FACE DETECTION], p. 48). You can specify the priority face by
touching it, and its image quality is adjusted accordingly. A double-lined frame appears around the face
you want to record as priority. Touch the face with the double-lined frame again to cancel.
In the default setting, a photo is recorded automatically when the camcorder detects the smile of a person
during movie recording (Smile Shutter). An orange frame appears around a face targeted for a possible
smile detection shot.
You can increase the zooming level by using the digital zoom. Set the zooming level by touching
(MENU)
ZOOM] a desired setting
[OTHER REC SET] (under
[SHOOTING SET] category) [ DIGITAL
.
When viewing movies on an x.v.Color-compliant TV, record movies with the x.v.Color function. Touch
(MENU)
X.V.COLOR] [ON]
[OTHER REC SET] (under
[SHOOTING SET] category)
. Some settings may be required on a TV to
[
view the movies. Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.
Shooting photos
In the default setting, photos are recorded on the internal memory (p. 43).
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
The lens cover is opened and your camcorder is turned on.
Press MODE to turn on the (Photo) lamp.
The LCD screen display switches for photo recording mode, and the screen aspect ratio
becomes 4:3.
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Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.
You can record photos also by touching
on the LCD screen.
Power zoom lever
Wide
Telephoto
Flashes Lights up
When
disappears, the photo is recorded.
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
To change the image size, touch
(MENU)
[ IMAGE SIZE] (under
[PHOTO
SETTINGS] category) a desired setting
.
You can record photos also during movie recording by pressing PHOTO. The image size is 8.3M when
recording high definition image quality (HD) movies.
Your camcorder flashes automatically when there is insufficient ambient light. The flash does not work
during movie recording. You can change how your camcorder flashes by touching
(MENU)
[FLASH MODE] (under
.
[PHOTO SETTINGS] category) a desired setting
You cannot record photos while
is displayed.
1GꢀB
Acquiring location information using the GPS (HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/
CX520VE)
When you set the GPS switch to ON,
appears on the LCD screen, and your camcorder
acquires the location information from the GPS satellites. Acquiring the location information
enables you to use functions such as the Map Index.
The indicator changes according to the strength of GPS signal reception.
Make sure that the GPS switch is set to OFF during take off and landing of an airplane.
Built-in map is powered by companies as follows; Map of Japan by ZENRIN CO., LTD., other areas
by NAVTEQ.
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Playback
Playback.on.the.camcorder
In the default setting, movies and photos on the internal memory are played (p. 43).
Playing movies
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
The lens cover is opened and your camcorder is turned on.
Press
(VIEW IMAGES).
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.
You can display the VISUAL INDEX screen also by touching
screen.
(VIEW IMAGES) on the LCD
Touch
(or
) () a desired movie ().
Switches operating button display.
To MENU screen
Displays the screen to select the index type ([DATE INDEX]/[ MAP] (HDR-
: Displays high definition image quality (HD) movies.*
Displays photos.
/
/
: Displays movies recorded on the previous/next date.**
: Displays the previous/next movie.
1G8B
Returns to the recording screen.
*
appears when the standard definition image quality (SD) movie is selected with [
SET] (p. 48).
/
** is displayed when is touched.
You can scroll the display by touching and dragging or .
appears with the movie or photo that was most recently played or recorded. If you touch the
movie or photo with , you can continue playback from the previous time. ( appears on the
photo recorded on the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.)
Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.
Volume adjustment
Previous
Next
OPTION MENU
To fast-forward
To pause/play
To stop
To fast-reverse
When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL
INDEX screen.
Touch
As you repeat touching
/
during pause to play back movies slowly.
during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times
/
about 10 times about 30 times about 60 times.
You can display the VISUAL INDEX by touching
(MENU)
[VISUAL INDEX]
(under
[PLAYBACK] category).
The recording date, time, and shooting conditions, and coordinates (HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/
CX520VE) are recorded automatically during recording. This information is not displayed during
recording, but you can display it during playback by touching
(MENU)
[PLAYBACK SET] (under [PLAYBACK] category) [DATA CODE] a desired setting
.
To adjust the sound volume of movies
While playing back movies, touch
You can adjust the sound volume by using
adjust with
/
.
/
in the OPTION MENU.
Viewing photos
Touch the
(Photo) () a desired photo () on the VISUAL INDEX screen.
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Switches operating button display.
To MENU screen
Displays the screen to select the index type ([DATE INDEX]/[ MAP] (HDR-
: Displays high definition image quality (HD) movies.*2
Displays photos.
/
/
: Displays photos recorded on the previous/next date.*3
: Displays the previous/next photo.
Returns to the recording screen.
1
*
*
*
[MEMORY STICK].
2
3
appears when the standard definition image quality (SD) movie is selected with [
/
SET] (p. 48).
is displayed when is touched.
Your camcorder displays the selected photo.
To start/stop slide
Previous
show
Next
To the VISUAL
INDEX screen
OPTION MENU
You can zoom in the photo by moving the power zoom lever while viewing photos (PB ZOOM). If you
touch a point in the PB ZOOM frame, the point comes to the center in the frame.
When viewing photos recorded on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media,
the screen.
(playback folder) appears on
2G0B
Playing images on a TV
Connection methods and the image quality (high definition (HD) or standard definition
(SD)) viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the
connectors used. You can connect your camcorder to the TV easily following the instructions
of [TV CONNECT Guide].
Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide]
Switch the input on the TV to the connected jack.
Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.
Turn on your camcorder, and touch
Guide] (under [OTHERS] category) on the LCD screen.
(MENU)
[TV CONNECT
Connect your camcorder and TV referring to [TV CONNECT Guide].
HDMI OUT jack
A/V Remote Connector
Input connectors on
the TV
When the A/V connecting cable is used to output movies, movies are output with standard
definition image quality (SD).
Play back movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 18).
Make the required output settings on your camcorder.
To connect a high definition TV via component video jacks:
(MENU)
[COMPONENT] [1080i/576i]
To connect a non-high-definition TV via component video jacks:
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
[GENERAL SET] category)
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(MENU)
[COMPONENT] [576i]
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
[GENERAL SET] category)
To connect a 4:3 TV:
(MENU)
TYPE] [4:3]
To activate “BRAVIA” Sync:
(MENU)
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
[GENERAL SET] category) [TV
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
[GENERAL SET] category)
[CTRL FOR HDMI] [ON] (the default setting)
On “Photo TV HD”
This camcorder is compatible with the “Photo TV HD” standard. “Photo TV HD” allows for
highly-detailed, photo-like depiction of subtle textures and colors. By connecting Sony’s Photo
TV HD-compatible devices using an HDMI cable* or the component A/V cable**, a whole
new world of photos can be enjoyed in breathtaking full HD quality.
* The TV will automatically switch to the appropriate mode when displaying photos.
**Setup of the TV will be necessary. Please refer to the instruction manual of your Photo TV HD-
compatible TV for details.
2G2B
Saving movies and photos with a computer
Preparing a computer
(Windows)
CPU
Intel Pentium 4 2.8 GHz or faster (Intel
You can perform following operations using
“PMB (Picture Motion Browser).”
Importing images to a computer
Viewing and editing imported images
Creating a disc
Uploading movies and photos to websites
To save movies and photos using a
computer, install “PMB” from the supplied
Pentium 4 3.6 GHz or faster, Intel Pentium D
2.8 GHz or faster, Intel Core Duo 1.66 GHz or
faster, or Intel Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or faster
is recommended.)
However, Intel Pentium III 1 GHz or faster is
sufficient for the following operations:
Importing the movies and photos to the
computer
One Touch Disc Burn
Creating an Blu-ray disc/AVCHD format
disc/DVD-video (Intel Pentium 4, 2.8 GHz
or faster, is required when creating a DVD
video by converting high definition image
quality (HD) to standard definition image
quality (SD).)
CD-ROM beforehand.
Do not format the internal memory of your
camcorder from a computer. Your camcorder
may not operate correctly.
This camcorder captures high definition footage
in the AVCHD format. Using the enclosed
PC software, high definition footage can be
copied onto DVD media. However, DVD media
containing AVCHD footage should not be used
with DVD based players or recorders, as the
DVD player/recorder may fail to eject the media
and may erase its contents without warning.
Copying a disc
Application
DirectX 9.0c or later (This product is based
on DirectX technology. It is necessary to have
DirectX installed.)
Memory
For Windows XP: 512 MB or faster (1 GB or
more is recommended.)
Step 1 Checking the computer
system
However, 256 MB or more is sufficient for
processing only the movies with standard
definition image quality (SD).
OS*1
For Windows Vista: 1 GB or more
Hard disk
Microsoft Windows XP SP3*2/Windows Vista
SP1*3
Disk volume required for installation:
Approximately 500 MB (10 GB or more may
be necessary when creating AVCHD format
discs. 50 GB maximum may be necessary
when creating Blu-ray discs.)
Display
Minimum 1,024 × 768 dots
Others
USB port (this must be provided as standard,
Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0 compatible)), Blu-
ray disc/DVD burner (CD-ROM drive is
necessary for installation) Either NTFS or
exFAT file system is recommended as the
hard disk file system.
Operation with all computer environments is
not assured.
GB
23
*1 Standard installation is required. Operation is
not assured if the OS has been upgraded or in a
multi-boot environment.
Turn on the computer.
Log on as an Administrator for installation.
*2 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not
supported.
Close all applications running on the
computer before installing the software.
*3 Starter (Edition) is not supported.
When using a Macintosh
Place the supplied CD-ROM in
The supplied software “PMB” is not
supported by Macintosh computers.
To process photos using a Macintosh
computer connected to your camcorder,
see the following website.
the disc drive of your computer.
The installation screen appears.
If the screen does not appear, click
[Start] [Computer] (in Windows
XP, [My Computer]), then double-click
[SONYPICTUTIL (E:)] (CD-ROM)
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary
depending on the computer.
*.
ms/us/
Click [Install].
Step 2 Installing the supplied
software “PMB”
Install “PMB” before connecting your
camcorder to a computer.
If a version of “PMB” supplied with another
device has already been installed on the
computer, check the version. (The version
number is displayed by clicking [Help] - [About
PMB].) Compare the version number of the
supplied CD-ROM with that of the previously
installed “PMB,” check to ensure that the
versions have been installed in order, from the
lower to the higher. If the version number of
the previously installed “PMB” is higher than
that of the “PMB” of your camcorder, uninstall
“PMB” from the computer and then re-install
it in order, from lower to higher. If you install a
higher version of “PMB” first, some functions
may not work correctly.
Select the language for the
application to be installed, then
proceed to the next screen.
Turn on your camcorder, then
connect the camcorder to the
computer using the supplied USB
cable.
Confirm that your camcorder is
not connected to the computer.
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on
the camcorder screen automatically.
2G4B
No icon may appear depending on the
installation procedure.
The “Handycam” Handbook is not
installed in this procedure (p. 52).
Touch [ USB CONNECT] on the
camcorder screen.
If the [USB SELECT] screen does not
appear, touch
[USB CONNECT] (under
[OTHERS] category).
(MENU)
To disconnect your camcorder from the
computer
Click the
icon at the bottom right of the
desktop of the computer [Safely remove
USB Mass Storage Device].
Click [Continue] on the computer
Touch [END] [YES] on the camcorder
screen.
Disconnect the USB cable.
screen.
Read the terms of the license
agreement carefully. If you agree
to the terms, change to , and
then click [Next] [Install].
You can create a Blu-ray disc by using a
computer with a Blu-ray disc burner. Install the
BD Add-on Software for “PMB”(p.31)
Follow the on-screen instructions
to install the software.
Depending on the computer, you may
need to install third party software. If
the installation screen appears, follow
the instructions to install the required
software.
Restart the computer if required to
complete the installation.
When the installation is completed,
following icons will appear.
Remove the CD-ROM from your
computer.
Other icons may appear.
GB
25
Selecting the method for creating a disc
(computer)
Several methods for creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc or a standard
definition image quality (SD) disc from high definition image quality (HD) movies or
photos recorded on your camcorder are described here. Select the method that suits your
disc player.
Player
Choosing a method and disc type
Blu-ray disc playback
Importing movies and photos to a
computer (Easy PC Back-up) (p. 29)
devices (a Blu-ray disc player,
PLAYSTATION3, etc.)
Creating a Blu-ray disc* with high
definition image quality (HD) (p. 31)
HD
AVCHD format playback devices
(a Sony Blu-ray disc player,
PLAYSTATION3, etc.)
Creating a disc with one touch (One Touch
Disc Burn) (p. 28)
Importing movies and photos to a
computer (Easy PC Back-up) (p. 29)
HD
Creating a AVCHD format disc with high
definition image quality (HD) (p. 30)
Ordinary DVD playback devices
(a DVD player, a computer that
can play DVDs, etc.)
Importing movies and photos to a
computer (Easy PC Back-up) (p. 29)
SD
Creating a standard definition image
quality (SD) disc (p. 32)
Characteristics of each type of disc
Using a Blu-ray disc enables you to record high definition image quality (HD) movies of a longer
duration than DVD discs.
HD
High definition image quality (HD) movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs,
and a high definition image quality (HD) disc is created.
SD
Standard definition image quality (SD) movie converted from high definition image quality (HD)
movie can be recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R discs, and a standard image quality (SD)
disc is created.
Discs you can use with “PMB”
2GꢀB
Creating a disc with
one touch
(One Touch Disc Burn)
You can save movies and photos on a
disc. Movies and photos recorded on your
camcorder that have not yet been saved
with One Touch Disc Burn function can
be saved on a disc automatically. Movies
and photos are saved on a disc with their
3
4
Press
(DISC BURN).
recorded image quality.
High definition image quality (HD) movies
(the default setting) will make a high definition
image quality (HD) disc. You cannot play a high
definition image quality (HD) disc on DVD
players.
Creating a Blu-ray disc is not available with One
Touch Disc Burn.
To create a standard definition image quality
(SD) disc from high definition image quality
(HD) movies, import movies to a computer first
image quality (SD) disc (p. 32).
Follow the instructions on the
computer screen.
not start “PMB.”
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this
operation (p. 10).
With One Touch Disc Burn function on your
camcorder, you can save movies and photos
recorded on the internal memory only.
Movies and photos are not saved on the
computer when you perform One Touch Disc
Burn.
1
2
Turn on your computer, and place
an empty disc on the DVD drive.
use.
If any other software than “PMB” starts
automatically, shut it down.
Turn on your camcorder, then
connect the camcorder to the
computer using the supplied USB
cable.
2G8B
Importing movies and
photos to a computer
(Easy PC Back-up)
Movies and photos recorded on your
camcorder that have not yet been saved
with Easy PC Back-up can be imported
to a computer automatically. Turn on the
computer beforehand.
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this
operation (p. 10).
Movies and photos are imported to
your computer.
When the operation is completed, the
“PMB” screen appears.
1
2
3
Turn on your camcorder, then
connect the camcorder to the
computer using the supplied USB
cable.
When the operation is completed, a screen
to indicate that movies are being analyzed
may appear. It may take a long time to
analyze movies. In the meantime, you can
operate “PMB.”
You can create either high definition image
quality (HD) discs (Blu-ray disc/AVCHD
high definition image quality (HD) movies.
See “PMB Guide” on importing selected movies
and photos (p. 30).
You can export high definition image quality
(HD) movies from your computer to your
camcorder (HDR-CX500E/CX500VE/CX520E/
CX520VE). On the “PMB” screen, click
[Manipulate] [Export to] [Handycam
(Internal Memory)] or [Handycam (Memory
Stick)]. See “PMB Guide” for details (p. 30).
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on
the camcorder screen.
Touch [ USB CONNECT] to
import images from the internal
memory, or [ USB CONNECT] to
import images from a “Memory
Stick PRO Duo”media.
Changing the destination drive
or folder for movies and photos
On the [Handycam Utility] screen in
step 3 above, click [Easy PC Back-up]
[Change]. On the screen displayed, you
can select the drive or folder where the
images are to be saved.
The [Handycam Utility] window
appears on the computer screen.
On the computer screen, click
[Easy PC Back-up] [Import].
GB
29
Starting PMB (Picture
Creating a high
definition image
quality (HD) disc
You can create a high definition image
quality (HD) disc by putting together high
definition image quality (HD) movies
previously imported to your computer
Motion Browser)
Double-click the “PMB” short-cut icon on
the computer screen.
(p. 29).
In this section, the procedure for recording a
high definition image quality (HD) movie on a
You can play a high definition image quality
(HD) disc on AVCHD format playback devices,
such as a Sony Blu-ray disc player and a
PLAYSTATION3. You cannot play the disc on
ordinary DVD players (p. 26).
If the icon is not displayed on the computer
screen, click [Start] [All Programs]
[Sony Picture Utility] [PMB] to start “PMB.”
You can view, edit, or create discs of movies
and photos using “PMB.”
Reading “PMB Guide”
1
2
3
Turn on your computer, and place
an empty disc on the DVD drive.
use.
If any other software than “PMB” starts
automatically, shut it down.
For details on how to use “PMB,” read the
“PMB Guide.” Double-click the “PMB
Guide” short-cut icon on the computer
screen to open the “PMB Guide.”
Double-click the “PMB”short-cut
icon on the computer screen to
start “PMB.”
You may start “PMB” also by clicking
[Start] [All Programs] [Sony
Picture Utility] [PMB].
If the icon is not displayed on the computer
screen, click [Start] [All Programs]
[Sony Picture Utility] [Help] [PMB
Guide]. You can also open the “PMB Guide”
from [Help] of “PMB.”
Click [Folders] or [Calendar] on
the left side in the window, and
select the folder or date, then
select the high definition image
quality (HD) movies.
High definition image quality (HD)
movies are marked with
.
You cannot save photos on a disc.
To select plural movies, hold the Ctrl key
down and click thumbnails.
3G0B
Creating a Blu-ray disc
4
5
At the top of the window, click
[Manipulate] [AVCHD (HD)
Creation].
You can create a Blu-ray disc with a high
definition image quality (HD) movie
previously imported to a computer
(p. 29).
To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on
Software for “PMB” must be installed.
Click [BD Add-on Software] on the
installation screen of “PMB,” and install
this plug-in according to the on-screen
instructions.
Connect your computer to the internet
when you install [BD Add-on Software].
The window used to select movies
appears.
To add movies to the previously selected
ones, select the movies in the main
window and drag and drop onto the
window for selecting movies.
Follow the instructions on the
screen to create a disc.
It may take a long time to create a disc.
Place an empty Blu-ray disc in the disc
drive, and click [Manipulate] [Blu-
ray Disc (HD) Creation] in step 4 of
are the same as that for creating a high
definition image quality (HD) disc.
Your computer must support the creation of
Blu-ray discs.
BD-R (unrewritable) and BD-RE
(rewritable) media are available for creating
Blu-ray discs. You cannot add contents to
either type of disc after creating the disc.
Playing a high definition image
quality (HD) disc on a computer
You can play back high definition image
quality (HD) discs using “Player for
AVCHD” that is installed together with
“PMB.”
To start “Player for AVCHD” Click [Start]
[All Programs] [Sony Picture
Utility] [Player for AVCHD].
See the “Player for AVCHD” help on the
operation.
Movies may not be played smoothly
depending on the computer environment.
GB
31
Creating a standard
definition image
quality (SD) disc that
can be played on
ordinary DVD players
[Manipulate] [DVD-Video (SD)
Creation].
The window used to select movies and
photos appears.
To add movies and photos to the
previously selected ones, select the movies
and photos in the main window and drag
and drop onto the window for selecting
movies and photos.
You can create a standard definition image
quality (SD) disc by selecting movies
and photos previously imported to your
computer (p. 29).
You may select high definition image quality
(HD) movies as sources. However, image
quality is converted from high definition
(HD) to standard definition (SD). It will take a
longer time for converting the image quality of
the movies than it took to actually record the
movies.
1
2
3
Turn on your computer, and place
an empty disc on the DVD drive.
use.
If any other software than “PMB” starts
automatically, shut it down.
5
Follow the instructions on the
screen to create a disc.
It may take a long time to create a disc.
Double-click the “PMB”short-cut
icon on the computer screen to
start “PMB.”
You may start “PMB” also by clicking
[Start] [All Programs] [Sony
Picture Utility] [PMB].
Copying a disc
You can copy a recorded disc to another
disc using “Video Disc Copier.”
You can also copy a disc by converting
high definition image quality (HD)
movies to standard definition image
quality (SD) movies.
Click [Start] [All Programs] [Sony
Picture Utility] [Video Disc Copier]
to start the software. See “Video Disc
Click [Folders] or [Calendar] on
the left side in the window, and
select the folder or date, then
select the movies and photos.
High definition image quality (HD)
Copier” help on the operation.
You cannot copy to a Blu-ray disc.
movies are marked with
.
To select plural movies and photos, hold
the Ctrl key down and click thumbnails.
4
At the top of the window, click
3G2B
Editing movies
You can cut out only necessary parts
from a movie and save it as another file.
Using “PMB,” select the movie you
want to edit, then click [Manipulate]
[Video Trimming] on the menu to
display the Video Trimming window. See
“PMB Guide” on the operation (p. 30).
Capturing photos from a movie
You can save a frame of a movie as a
photo file.
On the movie playback window of
“PMB,” click
to display [Save Frame]
windows. See “PMB Guide” on the
operation (p. 30).
Click
GB
33
Saving images with a DVD writer, recorder
Selecting the method for creating a disc (DVD
writer/recorder)
Several methods for creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc or a standard
definition image quality (SD) disc from high definition image quality (HD) movies or
photos recorded on your camcorder are described here. Select the method that suits your
disc player.
Prepare a DVD disc such as a DVD-R, for creating a disc.
Player
Choosing a method and disc type
AVCHD format playback devices
(a Sony Blu-ray disc player,
PLAYSTATION3, etc.)
Creating a high definition (HD) image
quality disc with DVD writer, DVDirect
Express (p. 35)
HD
Creating a high definition (HD) image
quality disc with a DVD writer, etc., other
than DVDirect Express (p. 38)
Ordinary DVD playback devices
(a DVD player, a computer that
can play DVDs, etc.)
Creating a standard definition (SD) image
quality disc with DVD writer, DVDirect
Express (p. 35)
SD
Creating a standard definition (SD) image
quality disc with a recorder, etc. (p. 39)
Always maintain your PLAYSTATION3 to use the latest version of the PLAYSTATION3 system
software.
The PLAYSTATION3 may not be available in some countries/regions.
3G4B
Creating a disc with
the dedicated DVD
writer, DVDirect
Express
You can perform the following operations
by using the dedicated DVD writer,
DVDirect Express (sold separately) :
Create a disc of the same image quality as
that of the recorded movie.
Convert high definition (HD) movies
to standard definition (SD) movies, for
playback on any DVD player, etc., and
create a disc (DISC BURN OPTION).
Play back the images on a created disc
Refer also to the instruction manual supplied
with the DVD writer.
2
3
Insert an unused disc into the
DVD writer, and close the disc
tray.
The [DISC BURN] screen appears on
the camcorder screen.
Press
(DISC BURN) on the DVD
writer.
DVDirect Express is referred to as “DVD
writer” in this section.
Only unused discs of the following types can
be used:
12cm DVD-R
12cm DVD+R
Movies recorded on the internal
memory that have not been saved on
any discs will be recorded onto the
disc. After the disc has been created,
the disc tray on the DVD writer opens
and you can remove the disc.
The device does not support two-layered discs.
You can also operate with
(DISC
1
Turn on your camcorder, and
connect the DVD writer to the
(USB) jack of your camcorder with
the USB cable of the DVD writer.
BURN) on your camcorder.
4
5
Repeat steps 2 and 3 when the
total memory size of movies to
be burnt exceeds that of the disc.
After the operation is completed,
touch
[END] on the
camcorder screen.
Touch [EJECT DISC] and remove any
inserted disc.
The [EXTERNAL DRIVE] screen
appears on the camcorder screen.
Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power
the DVD writer does not work.
When there are unsaved high definition
(HD) and standard definition (SD) image
quality movies, they will be saved on
individual discs according to image quality.
6
Close the disc tray on the DVD
writer, and disconnect the USB
cable.
GB
35
when you create a disc converting them
from high definition image quality (HD)
to standard definition image quality (SD).
To customize a disc with DISC BURN
OPTION
Perform this operation in the following
cases.
When dubbing a desired image
When creating multiple copies of the
same disc
Touch
screen.
[YES] on the camcorder
The disc tray on the DVD writer opens after
creating the disc.
Remove the disc from the DVD writer, and
close the disc tray.
To create another disc of the same
contents, insert a new disc and touch
[CREATE SAME DISC].
After the operation is completed, touch [EXIT]
[END] on the camcorder screen.
Close the disc tray on the DVD writer, and
disconnect the USB cable from your camcorder.
When converting high definition (HD)
movies to standard definition (SD)
movies, and creating a disc
Touch [DISC BURN OPTION] in step 3 above.
To play back a disc on the DVD writer
Select the recording media containing the
movie(s) you want to save.
[
INT. MEMORY]/[
MEMORY STICK]:
The screen to select the image qualityof the disc
to be created appears on the LCD screen. Select
the desired image quality, and touch
.
Movie thumbnails appear on the camcorder
screen.
Turn on your camcorder, and connect the DVD
writer to the (USB) jack of your camcorder
with the USB cable of the DVD writer.
The [EXTERNAL DRIVE] screen appears.
You can play back movies on the TV
screen by connecting the camcorder to a
TV (p. 21).
[
INT. MEMORY]/[
MEMORY STICK]:
Movie thumbnails appear on the camcorder
screen.
Touch the movie you want to burn on the disc.
appears.
Insert a created disc into the DVD writer.
The movies on the disc appear as VISUAL
INDEX on the camcorder screen.
Press the play button on the DVD writer.
The movie plays back on the camcorder screen.
You can also operate by the camcorder
screen (p. 18).
Remaining Disc capacity
Press and hold the image down on the
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch
to return to the previous screen.
By touching date, you can search for
images by date.
The image quality of the disc depends on
the recording time of the selected movies
Touch [END] [EJECT DISC] on the
camcorder screen and remove the disc after the
operation is completed.
Touch
and disconnect the USB cable.
Be sure to turn on the camcorder. The DVD
writer is powered from the camcorder.
You can use [DISC BURN OPTION] to create
3GꢀB
many of the same disc.
Do not do any of the following when creating
a disc.
screen.
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some
countries/regions.
Turn off the camcorder
Close the LCD screen of the camcorder
Disconnect the USB cable or the AC Adaptor
Subject the camcorder to mechanical shock
or vibration
Eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
from the camcorder
You cannot add movies to a created disc.
Play the created disc to make sure dubbing was
performed correctly before deleting the movies
on your camcorder.
If [Failed.] or [DISC BURN failed.] appears on
the screen, insert another disc into the DVD
writer and perform the DISC BURN operation
again.
The created high definition (HD) image quality
disc can be played back only on AVCHD format
compatible devices. You can also play back the
disc with a DVD writer connecting with your
camcorder.
The high definition image quality (HD) disc
that you created should not be used in DVD
players/recorders. Because DVD players/
recorders are not compatible with the AVCHD
format, DVD players/recorders may fail to eject
the disc.
If the total memory size of movies to be burnt
by the DISC BURN operation exceeds that of
the disc, disc creation stops when the limit is
reached. The last movie on the disc may be
cut off.
Disc creation time to dub movies to the limit of
the disc is about 20 to 60 minutes. It may take
more time depending on the recording mode
or the number of scenes. Also, if high definition
image quality (HD) is converted to standard
image quality (SD), image quality conversion
takes longer than the actual recording.
You can play back created standard definition
(SD) image quality discs on a general DVD
player. If playback is not possible for any reason,
connect the camcorder to the DVD writer, and
then play back.
The disc mark appears on the camcorder
GB
37
Creating a high
definition image
quality (HD) disc with
a DVD writer, etc. other
than DVDirect Express
3
Record movies on the connected
device.
For details, refer to the instruction
manuals supplied with the device to be
connected.
Use USB cable to connect your camcorder
to a disc creation device, which is
compatible with high definition image
quality (HD) movies, such as a Sony DVD
writer. Refer also to the instruction manuals
supplied with the device to be connected.
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
socket) using the AC Adaptor for this operation
(p. 10).
4
5
After the operation is completed,
touch [END] [YES] on the
camcorder screen.
Disconnect the USB cable.
1
Turn on your camcorder, and
connect a DVD writer, etc. to the
(USB) jack of your camcorder
with the USB cable (supplied).
The high definition image quality (HD)
disc that you created should not be used
in DVD players/recorders. Because DVD
players/recorders are not compatible with
the AVCHD format, DVD players/
recorders may fail to eject the disc.
Sony DVD writer may not be available in
some countries/regions.
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on
the camcorder screen.
2
Touch [ USB CONNECT] when
movies are recorded on the
internal memory, or [ USB
CONNECT] when movies are
recorded on a “Memory Stick PRO
Duo”media on the camcorder
screen.
3G8B
Creating a standard
definition image
quality (SD) disc with a
recorder, etc.
A/V Remote
Connector
You can dub images played back on your
camcorder on a disc or video cassette,
by connecting your camcorder to a disc
recorder or a Sony DVD writer other
than DVDirect Express, etc. with the A/V
connecting cable. Connect the device
in either way of or . Refer also to
the instruction manuals supplied with
the devices to be connected. Select the
recording media that contains movies you
want to dub and the image quality before
Input
S VIDEO
VIDEO
starting the operation (p. 43, 48).
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
socket) using the AC Adaptor for this operation
(p. 10).
(Yellow)
(White)
High definition image quality (HD) movies
will be dubbed with standard definition image
quality (SD).
AUDIO
(Red)
(Yellow)
A/V connecting cable (supplied)
Connect the A/V connecting cable to the
input jack of another device.
A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold
separately)
Signal flow
When connecting to another device
via the S VIDEO jack, by using an A/V
connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable
(sold separately), higher quality images can
be produced than with an A/V connecting
cable. Connect the white and red plug
(left/right audio) and the S VIDEO plug
(S VIDEO channel) of the A/V connecting
cable with an S VIDEO cable. If you
connect the S VIDEO plug only, you will
hear no sound. The yellow plug (video)
connection is not necessary.
1
2
Insert the recording media in the
recording device.
If your recording device has an input
selector, set it to the input mode.
Connect your camcorder to the
recording device (a disc recorder,
etc.) with the A/V connecting
cable (supplied) or an A/V
connecting cable with S VIDEO
(sold separately).
Connect your camcorder to the input jacks
of the recording device.
GB
39
countries/regions.
3
4
Start playback on your
camcorder, and record it on the
recording device.
Refer to the instruction manuals supplied
with your recording device for details.
When dubbing is finished, stop
the recording device, and then
your camcorder.
Since dubbing is performed via analog data
transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.
You cannot dub images to recorders connected
with an HDMI cable.
To hide the screen indicators (such as a counter,
etc.) on the screen of the monitor device
connected, touch
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
(MENU)
[GENERAL
SET] category) [DISP OUTPUT] [LCD
PANEL] (the default setting)
.
To record the date/time, coordinates (HDR-
CX500VE/CX505VE/CX520VE), or camera
settings data, touch
(MENU)
[PLAYBACK SET] (under
[PLAYBACK] category) [DATA CODE]
a desired setting
.
In addition, touch
(MENU)
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
[GENERAL SET] category) [DISP
OUTPUT] [V-OUT/PANEL]
.
When the screen size of display devices (TV,
etc.) is 4:3, touch (MENU)
[OUTPUT SETTINGS] (under
[GENERAL
SET] category) [TV TYPE] [4:3]
.
When you connect a monaural device, connect
the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable
to the video input jack, and the white (left
channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the
audio input jack on the device.
Sony DVD writer may not be available in some
4G0B
Making good use of your camcorder
Deleting movies and
photos
Formatting the recording media
You can free media space by deleting
movies and photos from recording media.
Select the recording medium that contains
the movies and photos you want to delete
before starting the operation (p. 43).
Formatting deletes all the movies and
photos to recover recordable free space.
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
socket) using the AC Adaptor supplied for this
operation (p. 10).
To avoid the loss of important images, you
recording media.
For movies, select the image quality (p. 48).
1
2
Touch
[DELETE] (under
category).
(MENU)
Protected movies and photos will also be
deleted.
[EDIT]
Touch
(MENU)
[MEDIA FORMAT] (under
[MANAGE MEDIA] category).
To delete movies, touch
[
[
DELETE] [
DELETE].
DELETE] or
To delete photos, touch [ DELETE]
DELETE].
Touch the recording media to
be formatted ([INT. MEMORY] or
[MEMORY STICK]).
[
3
Touch and display the mark
on the movies or photos to be
deleted.
Touch [YES] [YES]
.
While [Executing…] is displayed, do not close
the LCD screen, operate the buttons on the
camcorder, disconnect the AC Adaptor, or eject
the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media from your
camcorder. (The access lamp is lit or flashing
while formatting the medium.)
4
Touch
[YES]
.
To delete all movies at one time
In step 2, touch [ DELETE] [
DELETE
ALL]/[
DELETE ALL] [YES] [YES]
.
To delete all photos at one time
In step 2, touch [ DELETE] [ DELETE
ALL] [YES] [YES]
.
GB
41
Adjusting for shooting
conditions
To assign a menu item
Recording in dark places
(NightShot)
Press and hold MANUAL for a few seconds
to display the [DIAL SETTING] screen.
Rotate the MANUAL dial to assign an item.
You can assign [FOCUS], [EXPOSURE],
[AE SHIFT], or [WB SHIFT].
When you press NIGHTSHOT, appears,
and you can record images even in total
darkness.
Press NIGHTSHOT again to cancel the
NightShot function.
Using NightShot in bright places will cause a
malfunction of your camcorder.
Using a tripod
Attach the tripod (sold separately) to the
tripod receptacle using a tripod screw (sold
separately, the length of the screw must be
less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)).
Tripod
receptacle
Adjusting focus, etc., manually
(MANUAL dial)
It is convenient to make manual
adjustments using the MANUAL dial, by
assigning a menu item ([FOCUS] in the
default setting) to the MANUAL dial.
MANUAL button
MANUAL dial
How to use the MANUAL dial
Press MANUAL to switch to manual
operation mode, and rotate the dial to
make the adjustment. Pressing MANUAL
switches the operation mode between
manual and automatic.
4G2B
Changing the
recording media
[PHOTO MEDIA SET].
You can select the internal memory or
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media as the
recording, playback, or editing medium on
your camcorder. Select the medium to be
used for movies and photos separately.
In the default setting, both movies and
photos are recorded on the internal
memory.
The [PHOTO MEDIA SET] screen
appears.
Touch the desired recording
medium.
Touch [YES]
.
Internal memory
The recording medium is changed.
Movies
Photos
“Memory Stick” media
To check the recording media
settings
Light up the (Movie) lamp to check
the recording medium used for movies,
or the (Photo) lamp for photos. The
media icon is displayed at the top right
corner of the screen.
You can do recording, playback, and editing
operations on the selected medium.
Selecting the recording media for
movies
Touch
(MENU)
[MEDIA SETTINGS] (under
[MANAGE MEDIA] category)
[MOVIE MEDIA SET].
: Internal memory
: “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
The [MOVIE MEDIA SET] screen
appears.
Inserting “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media
Touch the desired medium.
Set the recording medium to [MEMORY
STICK] to record movies and/or photos on
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.
Touch [YES]
.
The recording medium is changed.
Types of “Memory Stick”media you can
use with your camcorder
For recording movies, it is recommended that
you use “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of 1
GB or larger marked with:
Selecting the media for photos
Touch
(MENU)
(“Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media)*
[MEDIA SETTINGS] (under
[MANAGE MEDIA] category)
(“Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo” media)
GB
43
free space.] is displayed in step 2, format the
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 41).
* Marked with Mark2 or not, either can
be used.
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of up to 32 GB
are confirmed to work with this camcorder.
To eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media
Open the “Memory Stick Duo” media/jack
cover and lightly push the “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media in once.
Do not open the “Memory Stick Duo” media/
jack cover during recording.
When inserting or ejecting the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media, be careful so that the
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media does not pop
out and drop.
Open the “Memory Stick Duo”
media/jack cover, and insert the
“Memory Stick PRO Duo”media
into the “Memory Stick Duo”
media slot until it clicks.
Close the “Memory Stick Duo” media/
jack cover after inserting the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media.
Dubbing or copying movies
and photos from the internal
memory to “Memory Stick PRO
Duo”media
“Memory Stick Duo” media/jack cover
Touch
(MENU)
[MOVIE DUB]/[PHOTO COPY] (under
[EDIT] category), then follow the
displays on the screen.
Access lamp
The [Create a new Image Database
File.] screen appears if you insert new
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media when
the (Movie) lamp is lit.
Confirm the direction of the “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media. If you forcibly
insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
in the wrong direction, the “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media, “Memory Stick Duo”
media slot, or image data may be damaged.
Touch [YES].
To record only photos on “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media, touch [NO].
If [Failed to create a new Image Database File.
It may be possible that there is not enough
4G4B
Customizing your
camcorder with menus
Your camcorder has MY MENU where
6 menu items you use most often can be
registered, and MENU, where all menu
After changing the setting, touch
items are displayed.
Menu items are described in more details with
color photos in the “Handycam” Handbook
(p. 52).
To register your favorite menu items to
MY MENU
[MY MENU SETTING].
Touch the MY MENU type you want to
change.
Using MY MENU
Open the LCD screen of your
camcorder.
[MOVIE]: Change the MY MENU for
movie recording.
[PHOTO]: Change the MY MENU for
photo recording.
[PLAYBACK]: Change the MY MENU
for playback.
The lens cover is opened and your
camcorder is turned on.
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD
screen is already open, press POWER
(p. 11).
Touch
(MENU).
(MENU)
Touch the item to be changed.
The MY MENU screen is displayed.
Touch
registered.
Touch
displayed.
the item to be
, after MY MENU screen is
You can register up to 6 menu items in each
MY MENU.
The default settings for each MY MENU are the
following:
MY MENU(MOVIE)
To MENU screen
MY MENU items that appear on the
screen depend on the status of your
camcorder, recording (movie/photo) or
playback.
[SCENE SELECTION], [SPOT MTR/FCS],
[FACE DETECTION], [LOW LUX], [
SET], [ REC MODE]
/
MY MENU(PHOTO)
[SCENE SELECTION], [SPOT MTR/FCS],
SELF-TIMER], [SMILE DETECTION],
[FLASH MODE], [ IMAGE SIZE]
MY MENU(PLAYBACK)
[
Touch the menu item to be
changed.
GB
45
[DELETE], [PHOTO CAPTURE],
HIGHLIGHT], [ SCENARIO], [TV
[
CONNECT Guide], [OUTPUT SETTINGS]
To change settings by using MENU
Open the LCD screen of your
camcorder.
The lens cover is opened and your
camcorder is turned on.
To turn on your camcorder when the LCD
screen is already open, press POWER
(p. 11).
Moves through 4 items at once
Moves from category to category
Touch
(MENU).
Displays
and
.
The MY MENU screen is displayed.
You may not be able to set some menu
items, depending on the recording or
playback conditions.
Grayed out menu items or settings are not
available.
You can touch or and drag on the
screen to scroll the list of the menu.
Touch
.
The MENU items are displayed.
Category
After changing the setting, touch
.
To return to the previous screen, touch
.
To MY MENU screen
Depending on the menu items being changed,
your camcorder switches between playback
mode and recording mode (movie/photo).
Touch the menu item to be
changed.
Using the OPTION MENU
The
OPTION MENU appears just
like the pop-up window that appears when
you right-click the mouse on a computer.
The menu items you can change in the
context appear.
4GꢀB
Touch
(OPTION).
(OPTION)
Touch the desired tab the
item to change the setting.
Menu item
Tab
After completing the setting,
touch
.
Grayed out menu items or settings are not
available.
When the item you want is not on the screen,
touch another tab. (There may be no tab.)
The tabs and items that appear on the screen
depend on the recording/playback status of
your camcorder at the time.
GB
47
Menu lists
(MANUAL SETTINGS) category
SCENE SELECTION .................. Selects an appropriate recording setting according to the type of scene,
such as night view or beach.
FADER.................................... Fades scenes in or out.
WHITE BAL................................. Adjusts the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.
SPOT MTR/FCS......................... Adjusts the brightness and focus for the seleted subject simultaneously.
SPOT METER ............................. Adjusts the brightness of images to a subject you touch on the screen.
SPOT FOCUS............................. Focuses on a subject you touch on the screen.
EXPOSURE ................................. Adjusts the brightness of movies and photos.
FOCUS......................................... Focuses manually.
TELE MACRO............................. Shoots a subject in focus with, the background out of focus.
AE SHIFT..................................... Adjusts the exposure.
WB SHIFT.................................... Adjust the white balance manually.
SMTH SLW REC......................... Records fast moving subjects in slow-motion.
(SHOOTING SET) category
/
SET ............................. Sets image quality for recording, playback, or editing movies.
REC MODE........................... Sets the mode to record movies. When recording fast moving subject, a
high image quality, such as [FH], is recommended.
GUIDEFRAME............................ Displays the frame to make sure the subject is horizontal or vertical.
STEADYSHOT...................... Sets the SteadyShot function when recording movies.
CONVERSION LENS................. Optimizes the SteadyShot function and focus according to the attached
lens.
LOW LUX .................................... Records bright color images in the dim.
FACE DETECTION .................... Adjusts the image quality of the face(s) automatically.
PRIORITY SETTING.................. Select the subject that has priority for thr face detection and the smile
shutter.
SMILE DETECTION .................. Automatically takes a shot whenever a smile is detected.
SMILE SENSITIVITY.................. Sets the smile detection sensitivity using the smile shutter function.
AUDIO REC SET
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC.......... Records movies with vivid sound appropriate to the zoom position.
MICREF LEVEL................. Sets the microphone level.
AUDIO MODE.................. Sets the recording sound format (5.1ch surround/2ch stereo).
OTHER REC SET
AUTO BACK LIGHT......... Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT........ Emits infrared light when using NightShot.
X.V.COLOR.................. Records wider range of colors.
WIDE SELECT............. Sets the horizontal to vertical ratio when recording movies with standard
definition image quality (SD).
4G8B
(PHOTO SETTINGS) category
SELF-TIMER.......................... Sets the self-timer when your camcorder is in photo recording mode.
IMAGE SIZE.......................... Sets the photo size.
STEADYSHOT...................... Sets the SteadyShot function when recording photos.
FLASH MODE............................ Sets how the flash is activated.
FLASH LEVEL............................. Sets the brightness of flash.
REDEYE REDUC........................ Prevents redeye when shooting with flash.
FILE NO. ...................................... Sets how to assign the file number.
(PLAYBACK) category
VIEW IMAGES
DATE INDEX..................... Enables searching for desired images by date.
MAP*............................. Displays the Map Index for searching for movies and photos by recording
location.
FILM ROLL.................. Displays and plays the scenes by a certain interval.
FACE.............................. Displays and plays the face scenes.
PLAYLIST..................................... Displays and plays the playlist of movies.
HIGHLIGHT........................... Selects a number of short scenes and plays them back together as a digest
of your movies with music and visual effects.
SCENARIO............................. Plays the favorite scenario saved in Highlight Playback.
PLAYBACK SET
/
SET.................... Sets image quality for recording, playback, or editing movies.
DATA CODE...................... Displays the detailed recording data during playback.
(EDIT) category
DELETE
SCENARIO ERASE
ERASE ................................ Erases scenarios saved in Highlight Playback.
ERASE ALL........................ Erases all scenarios saved in Highlight Playback.
PROTECT
PROTECT..................... Protects movies to avoid deleting.
PROTECT..................... Protects photos to avoid deleting.
DIVIDE................................... Divides movies.
PHOTO CAPTURE .................... Captures photos from desired scenes of movies.
MOVIE DUB
DUB by select ................. Selects movies and dub.
DUB by date.................... Dubs all movies of a specified date.
DUB ALL/
DUB ALL .................... Dubs all saved movies in a playlist.
GB
49
PHOTO COPY
COPY by select ............... Selects photos and copy.
COPY by date.................. Copies all photos of a specified date.
PLAYLIST EDIT
ADD/
ADD........ Adds movies in a playlist.
ADD by date/
ADD by date............ Adds movies recorded on a same day at one time in a playlist.
ERASE/
ERASE... Erases movies from a playlist.
ERASE ALL/
ERASE ALL................. Erases all movies from a playlist.
MOVE/
MOVE.... Changes the order of movies in a playlist.
(OTHERS) category
YOUR LOCATION*.............. Displays the current location on a map.
USB CONNECT
USB CONNECT .......... Connects the internal memory via USB.
USB CONNECT.......... Connects the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media via USB.
MUSIC TOOL**
EMPTY MUSIC................. Deletes music files.
DOWNLOAD MUSIC ..... Download music files that can be played with Highlight Playback.
BATTERY INFO.......................... Displays the battery information.
(MANAGE MEDIA) category
MEDIA SETTINGS
MEDIA INFO.............................. Displays information on the recording media, such as free space.
MEDIA FORMAT
REPAIR IMG.DB F.
(GENERAL SET) category
SOUND/DISP SET
LCD BRIGHT..................... Adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen.
LCD BL LEVEL.................. Adjusts the backlight of the LCD screen.
LCD COLOR...................... Adjusts the color intensity of the LCD screen.
DISPLAY SET.................... Sets the duration that icons or indicators are displayed on the LCD screen.
5G0B
OUTPUT SETTINGS
HDMI RESOLUTION....... Selects the output image resolution when connecting your camcorder to a
TV with an HDMI cable.
DISP OUTPUT.................. Sets whether the on-screen displays appears on the TV screen or not.
CLOCK/ LANG
AUTO CLOCK ADJ*........ Sets whether the camcorder adjusts the clock automatically by acquiring
the time from GPS or not.
AUTO AREA ADJ*........... Sets whether the camcorder compensates for a time differences
automatically by acquiring the current location information from GPS or
not.
POWER SETTINGS
POWER ON BY LCD ....... Sets whether or not the camcorder is turned on and off when you open
and close the LCD screen.
OTHER SETTINGS
DEMO MODE................... Sets whether the demonstration appears or not.
CALIBRATION.................. Calibrates the touch panel.
REC LAMP......................... Sets REC LAMP to light up or not.
REMOTE CTRL................. Sets whether the Wireless Remote Commander is to be used or not.
* HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/CX520VE
**HDR-CX500E/CX500VE/CX520E/CX520VE
GB
51
Getting detailed
information from the
“Handycam”Handbook
computer screen.
The “Handycam” Handbook is a user guide
designed to be read on a computer screen.
The functions of your camcorder are
described, some of them with color photos.
The “Handycam” Handbook is intended to
be read when you want to know more about
operating your camcorder.
When using a Macintosh, open the [Handbook]
– [GB] folder in the CD-ROM, then copy
[Handbook.pdf].
You need Adobe Reader to read “Handycam”
Handbook. If it is not installed on your
computer, you can download it from the Adobe
Systems web page:
Refer to “PMB Guide” for details on the
supplied software “PMB” (p. 30).
1
2
To install the “Handycam”
Handbook on a Windows
computer, place the supplied
CD-ROM in the disc drive of your
computer.
On the installation screen
displayed, click [Handycam
Handbook].
3
4
Select the desired language
and the model name of your
camcorder, then click [Handycam
Handbook (PDF)].
The model name of your camcorder is
printed on its bottom surface.
Click [Exit] [Exit], then remove
the CD-ROM from your computer.
To view the “Handycam” Handbook,
double-click the short-cut icon on the
5G2B
Additional information
Troubleshooting
If you run into any problems using your
camcorder, use the following table to
troubleshoot the problem. If the problem
persists, disconnect the power source and
contact your Sony dealer.
Your camcorder gets warm.
Your camcorder may become warm during
operation. This is not a malfunction.
The power abruptly turns off.
Turn on the power again.
Notes before sending your camcorder
for repair
Your camcorder may be required to initialize
or change the current internal memory of your
camcorder, depending on the problem. In the
event of this, the data stored on the internal
memory will be deleted. Be sure to save the
data on the internal memory on other media
(backup) before sending your camcorder for
repair. We will not compensate you for any loss
of internal memory data.
During repair, we may check a minimum
amount of data stored on the internal memory
in order to investigate the problem. However,
your Sony dealer will neither copy nor retain
your data.
Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not
record images.
Press MODE to turn on the
(Photo) lamp.
Your camcorder is recording the image you
have just shot on the recording media. You
cannot make any new recordings during this
period.
The recording media is full. Delete
unnecessary images (p. 41).
Total number of movie scenes or photos has
exceeded the recordable capacity of your
camcorder. Delete unnecessary images (p. 41).
(Movie) or
details on the symptoms of your camcorder,
camcorder to a computer.
“PMB”cannot be installed.
Check the computer environment or
installation procedure required to install
“PMB” (p. 23).
The power does not turn on.
Attach a charged battery pack to the
camcorder (p. 9).
Connect the plug of the AC Adaptor to the
wall outlet (wall socket) (p. 10).
“PMB”does not work correctly.
Quit “PMB” and restart your computer.
The camcorder is not recognized by the
computer.
The camcorder does not operate even
when the power is set to on.
Disconnect devices from the USB jack of the
computer other than the keyboard, mouse,
and your camcorder.
Disconnect the USB cable from the computer
and your camcorder, and restart the computer,
then connect the computer and your
camcorder again in an orderly manner.
It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to
be ready to shoot after the power is turned on.
This is not a malfunction.
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall
outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery
pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.
If your camcorder still does not work, press
press RESET, all settings, including the clock
setting, are reset.)
GB
53
Self-diagnosis display/Warning
indicators
No “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media is
inserted (p. 43).
When the indicator flashes, there is not
enough free space for recording images. Delete
storing the images on other media.
If indicators appear on the LCD screen,
check the following.
If the problem persists even after you
have tried to fix a couple of times, contact
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony
service facility.
The Image Database File is damaged. Check
the data base file by touching
[REPAIR IMG.DB F.] (under
[MANAGE MEDIA] category) the
recording medium.
(MENU)
C:04:
The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack H series. Use an “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack H series (p. 9).
Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to
your camcorder securely (p. 9).
The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media is
damaged. Format the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media with your camcorder (p. 41).
C:06:
The battery pack temperature is high. Change
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.
Incompatible “Memory Stick Duo” media is
inserted (p. 43).
C:13: / C:32:
Remove the power source. Reconnect it and
operate your camcorder again.
Access to the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
was restricted on another device.
E:20: / E:31: / E:61: / E:62:
/ E:91: / E:92: / E:94: /
E:95: / E:96:
Turn on the power again to restore your
camcorder by pressing RESET (p. 62).
There is something wrong with the flash.
101-0001
The amount of light is not sufficient. Use the flash.
When the indicator flashes slowly, the file is
damaged or unreadable.
The camcorder is unsteady. Hold the camcorder
steady with both hands. However, note that
the camera-shake warning indicator does not
disappear.
Battery power is low.
The recording media is full. Delete unnecessary
images (p. 41).
Photos cannot be recorded during processing.
Wait for a while, then record.
The battery pack temperature is high. Change
the battery pack or place it in a cool place.
5G4B
Precautions
On use and care
such as by placing anything heavy on it.
Do not use a deformed or damaged battery
pack.
Do not use or store the camcorder and
accessories in the following locations:
Anywhere extremely hot, cold or humid.
Never leave them exposed to temperatures
above 60 C (140 °F), such as under direct
sunlight, near heaters or in a car parked in
the sun. They may malfunction or become
deformed.
Near strong magnetic fields or mechanical
vibration. The camcorder may malfunction.
Near strong radio waves or radiation. The
camcorder may not be able to record properly.
Near AM receivers and video equipment.
Noise may occur.
Keep metal contacts clean.
If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked:
Consult your local authorized Sony service
facility.
Wash off any liquid that may have contacted
your skin.
If any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with
plenty of water and consult a doctor.
When not using your camcorder for a
long time
To keep your camcorder in optimum state for a
long time, turn it on and let it run by recording
and playing back images about once a month.
Use up the battery pack completely before
storing it.
On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If
sand or dust gets in your camcorder, it may
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction
cannot be repaired.
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD
screen or the lens may be exposed to direct
sunlight. This damages the inside of the LCD
screen.
Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V
(battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor).
For DC or AC operation, use the accessories
recommended in these operating instructions.
Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example,
from rain or sea water. If your camcorder
gets wet, it may malfunction. Sometimes this
malfunction cannot be repaired.
LCD screen
Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD
screen, as it may cause damage.
If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a
residual image may appear on the LCD screen.
This is not a malfunction.
While using your camcorder, the back of
the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a
malfunction.
To clean the LCD screen
If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen
dirty, it is recommended that you use a soft
cloth to clean it. When you use the LCD
Cleaning Kit (sold separately), do not apply the
cleaning liquid directly to the LCD screen. Use
cleaning paper moistened with the liquid.
If any solid object or liquid gets inside the
casing, unplug your camcorder and have it
checked by a Sony dealer before operating it
any further.
Avoid rough handling, disassembling,
modifying, physical shock, or impact such
as hammering, dropping or stepping on the
product. Be particularly careful of the lens.
Keep the camcorder turning off when you are
not using your camcorder.
On handling the casing
If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body
with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water,
and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth.
Avoid the following to avoid damage to the
finish:
Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for
example, and operate it. Doing so might cause
heat to build up inside.
Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,
alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide
and sunscreen
When disconnecting the power cord (mains
lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord (lead).
Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)
GB
55
Handling the camcorder with above
substances on your hands
Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or
vinyl objects for a long period of time
When you transfer the camcorder, it is
recommended that you perform [ EMPTY]
(See “Getting detailed information from the
the recovery of your data. Also, when you dispose
of the camcorder, it is recommended that you
destroy the actual body of the camcorder.
About care and storage of the lens
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft
cloth in the following instances:
When there are fingerprints on the lens
surface
Note on disposal/transfer of “Memory
Stick PRO Duo”media
In hot or humid locations
When the lens is exposed to salty air such as
at the seaside
Store in a well-ventilated location subject to
little dirt or dust.
To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as
described above.
Even if you delete data in the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media or format the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media on your camcorder or a computer,
you may not delete data from the “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media completely. When you give the
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media to somebody, it
is recommended that you delete data completely
using data deletion software on a computer. Also,
when you dispose of the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media, it is recommended that you destroy
the actual body of the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media.
On charging the pre-installed
rechargeable battery
Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable
battery to retain the date, time, and other settings
even when the camcorder is turned off. The pre-
installed rechargeable battery is always charged
while your camcorder is connected to the wall
outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while
the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable
battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months
if you do not use your camcorder at all. Use
your camcorder after charging the pre-installed
rechargeable battery. However, even if the pre-
installed rechargeable battery is not charged, the
camcorder operation will not be affected as long
as you are not recording the date.
To change the battery of the Wireless
Remote Commander
While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail
into the slit to pull out the battery case.
Place a new battery with the + side facing up.
Insert the battery case back into the Wireless
Remote Commander until it clicks.
Tab
Procedures
Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave
it with the LCD screen closed for more than 24
hours.
WARNING
Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not
recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.
Note on disposal/transfer of the
camcorder
When the lithium battery becomes weak, the
operating distance of the Wireless Remote
Commander may shorten, or the Wireless
Remote Commander may not function
Even if you perform [
DELETE ALL],
[
DELETE ALL], [ DELETE ALL] or
properly. In this case, replace the battery with
a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another
battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
[MEDIA FORMAT] or formatting the media of
the camcorder, you may not delete data from the
media completely.
5GꢀB
Specifications
System
Minimum illumination
Signal format: PAL color, CCIR standards HDTV
11 lx (lux) (in default setting, shutter speed 1/50
1080/50i specification
second)
Movie recording format:
Video: HD: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 AVCHD
format compatible
3 lx (lux) (LOW LUX is set to [ON], shutter speed
1/25 second)
0 lx (lux) (NIGHTSHOT is set to on)
SD: MPEG-2 PS
*
The unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid
and the image processing system
(BIONZ) allow still image resolution
equivalent to the sizes described.
Audio: Dolby Digital 2ch/5.1ch
Dolby Digital 5.1 Creator
Photo file format
: DCF Ver.2.0 Compatible
: Exif Ver.2.21 Compatible
: MPF Baseline Compatible
** [ STEADYSHOT] is set to
[STANDARD] or [OFF].
Input/Output connectors
Recording media (Movie/Photo)
A/V Remote Connector: Component/video and
Internal memory
audio output jack
HDR-CX500E/CX500VE/CX505VE: 32GB
HDR-CX520E/CX520VE: 64GB
HDMI OUT jack: HDMI mini connector
USB jack: mini-AB
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
When measuring media capacity, 1 GB equals
1 billion bytes, a portion of which is used for
system management and/or application files.
The capacity that a user can use is below.
HDR-CX500E:
LCD screen
Picture: 7.5 cm (3.0 type, aspect ratio 16:9)
Total number of pixels: 230 400 (960 240)
General
approximately 31.5 GB
Power requirements: DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery
HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE:
approximately 30.7 GB
pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)
HDR-CX520E:
Average power consumption: During camera
recording, using LCD screen at normal
brightness: HD: 3.4 W SD: 2.7 W
approximately 63.5 GB
HDR-CX520VE:
approximately 62.7 GB
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to
Image device: 6.3 mm (1/2.88 type) CMOS sensor
Recording pixels (photo, 4:3):
Max. 12.0 mega (4 000 3 000) pixels*
Gross: Approx. 6 631 000 pixels
Effective (movie, 16:9):
104 °F)
Storage temperature: –20 C to + 60 C (-4 °F to
+140 °F)
Dimensions (approx.): 62 65 125 mm (2 1/2 ×
2 5/8 × 5 in.) (w/h/d) including the projecting
parts
Approx. 4 150 000 pixels**
Effective (photo, 16:9):
62 65 133 mm (2 1/2 × 2 5/8 × 5 3/8
in.) (w/h/d) including the projecting parts,
and the supplied rechargeable battery pack
attached
Approx. 4 500 000 pixels
Effective (photo, 4:3):
Approx. 6 000 000 pixels
Lens: Sony G lens
Mass (approx.)
12 (Optical), 24 , 150 (Digital)
Filter diameter: 37 mm (1 1/2 in.)
F1.8 ~ 3.4
HDR-CX500E/CX520E:
360 g (13 oz) main unit only
440 g (16 oz) including the supplied
rechargeable battery pack
Focal length:
f=5.5 ~ 66.0 mm (7/32 ~ 2 5/8 in.)
When converted to a 35 mm still camera
For movies: 43 ~ 516 mm (1 3/4 ~ 20 3/8
in.)** (16:9)
HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/CX520VE:
370 g (13 oz) main unit only
450 g (1 lb) including the supplied
rechargeable battery pack
For photos: 38 ~ 456 mm (1 1/2 ~ 18 in.) (4:3)
AC Adaptor AC-L200C/AC-L200D
Power requirements: AC 100 V - 240 V,
Color temperature: [AUTO], [ONE PUSH],
[INDOOR] (3 200 K), [OUTDOOR]
(5 800 K)
GB
57
50 Hz/60 Hz
Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the
power on/off and zooming.
Current consumption: 0.35 A - 0.18 A
Power consumption: 18 W
Output voltage: DC 8.4 V*
Expected recording time of movies in
the internal memory (in minute)
To set the recording mode, touch
Operating temperature: 0 C to 40 C (32 °F to
104 °F)
Storage temperature: –20 C to + 60 C (-4 °F to
+140 °F)
(MENU)
(under
[ REC MODE]
[SHOOTING SET] category). In
Dimensions (approx.): 48 29 81 mm (1 15/16
× 1 3/16 × 3 1/4 in.) (w/h/d) excluding the
projecting parts
the default setting, the recording mode is [HD
SP] (p. 48).
Mass (approx.): 170 g (6.0 oz) excluding the
power cord (mains lead)
High definition image quality (HD) in h (hour) and m
(minute)
* See the label on the AC Adaptor for other
specifications.
Recording time
Recording
mode
HDR-CX500E
HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE
3 h 45 m
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60
Maximum output voltage: DC 8.4 V
Output voltage: DC 7.2 V
Maximum charge voltage: DC 8.4 V
Maximum charge current: 2.12 A
Capacity: 7.2 Wh (1 000 mAh)
Type: Li-ion
[HD FH]
[HD HQ]
[HD SP]
3 h 50 m
7 h 50 m
9 h 30 m
12 h 40 m
7 h 35 m
9 h 15 m
[HD LP]
12 h 20 m
(5.1 ch)*
[HD LP]
13 h 20 m
13 h
(2 ch)*
Design and specifications of your camcorder and
accessories are subject to change without notice.
Manufactured under license from Dolby
Laboratories.
Recording time
Recording
mode
HDR-CX520E
7 h 45 m
HDR-CX520VE
7 h 40 m
[HD FH]
[HD HQ]
[HD SP]
Expected charging and running time
for the supplied battery pack (in
minute)
15 h 50 m
19 h 10 m
25 h 35 m
15 h 35 m
18 h 55 m
25 h 15 m
[HD LP]
(5.1 ch)*
Image quality
HD
SD
[HD LP]
26 h 55 m
26 h 35 m
Charging time
(full charge)
(2 ch)*
135
Continuous
125
160
recording time
Standard definition image quality (SD) in h (hour) and
m (minute)
Typical recording
time
65
80
Recording time
Recording
mode
Playback time
195
260
HDR-CX500E
HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE
7 h 40 m
Recording and playback time is approximate
time available using a fully charged battery
pack.
High definition image quality (HD)/Standard
definition image quality (SD)
Recording condition: [ REC MODE] is set
to [SP].
[SD HQ]
[SD SP]
7 h 50 m
11 h 35 m
22 h 15 m
11 h 20 m
[SD LP]
21 h 40 m
(5.1 ch)*
[SD LP]
24 h 15 m
23 h 40 m
(2 ch)*
5G8B
On trademarks
“Handycam” and
Recording time
HDR-CX520E
Recording
mode
are
HDR-CX520VE
15 h 35 m
23 h 5 m
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.
“AVCHD” and “AVCHD” logotype are
trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony
Corporation.
[SD HQ]
[SD SP]
15 h 50 m
23 h 25 m
44 h 50 m
[SD LP]
44 h 20 m
(5.1 ch)*
“Memory Stick,” “
,” “Memory Stick Duo,”
” “Memory Stick PRO Duo,”
,” “Memory Stick
,”
“
“
,
[SD LP]
48 h 55 m
48 h 20 m
(2 ch)*
PRO-HG Duo,” “
“MagicGate,” “
* You can change the recording sound format
with [AUDIO MODE] (p. 48).
,” “MagicGate
Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick
Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks
of Sony Corporation.
Example of expected recording time
of movies in a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media (in minute)
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.
“x.v.Colour” is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.
“BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
“BRAVIA” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
“DVDirect” is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.
“Blu-ray Disc” and the logo are trademarks.
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks
of Dolby Laboratories.
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition
Multimedia Interface are trademarks or
registered trademarks of HDMI Licencing LLC.
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Media,
Windows Vista, and DirectX are either
registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/
or other countries.
Macintosh and Mac OS are registered
trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other
countries.
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks
or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation
or its subsidiaries in the United States and other
countries.
For 4 GB capacity
Recording
mode
High definition (HD) Standard definition (SD)
[FH]
[HQ]
[SP]
25 (25)
55 (40)
65 (45)
-
55 (50)
80 (50)
[LP]
90 (70)
95 (75)
160 (105)
175 (110)
(5.1 ch)*
[LP]
(2 ch)*
* You can change the recording sound format
with [AUDIO MODE] (p. 48).
The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable
time.
A Sony “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media is
used.
The recordable time may vary depending on
the recording and subject conditions, [ REC
MODE], and the type of “Memory Stick” media.
On charging/recording/playback time
Measured when using the camcorder at 25 C
(77 ˚F) (10 C to 30 C (50 ˚F to 86 ˚F) is
recommended)
The recording and playback time will be
shorter in low temperatures, or depending
on the conditions under which you use your
camcorder.
“PLAYSTATION” is a registered trademark of
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc..
Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat
are either registered trademarks or trademarks
of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United
States and/or other countries.
NAVTEQ and the NAVTEQ Maps logo are
trademarks of NAVTEQ in the US and other
countries.
GB
59
Screen indicators
All other product names mentioned herein may
be the trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective companies. Furthermore, and
are not mentioned in each case in this manual.
Upper left
Center
Upper right
Bottom
Upper left
Indicator
Meaning
MENU button
AUDIO MODE
Self-timer recording
GPS tracking status
Flash, REDEYE REDUC
MICREF LEVEL low
WIDE SELECT
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC
Remaining battery
Return button
60 min
Center
Indicator
Meaning
[STBY]/[REC]
Recording status
Photo size
Slide show set
NightShot
Warning
Playback mode
Upper right
Indicator
Meaning
Recording image quality
(HD/SD) and recording
mode (FH/HQ/SP/LP)
/
Recording/playback/
editing media
ꢀG0B
Indicator
Meaning
Indicator
Meaning
Counter (hour:minute:
second)
Estimated recording
remaining time
Index button
0:00:00
Indicators and their positions are approximate
and may differ from what you actually see.
Some indicators may not appear, depending on
your camcorder models.
[00min]
FADER
Approximate number of
recordable photos and
recording media
9999
9999
Playback folder
Current playing movie or
photo/Number of total
recorded movies or photos
100/112
Bottom
Indicator
Meaning
[FACE DETECTION] set
to [OFF]
SMILE DETECTION
LOW LUX
Manual focus
SCENE SELECTION
White balance
SteadyShot off
SPOT MTR/FCS/
SPOT METER/
EXPOSURE
AE SHIFT
WB SHIFT
TELE MACRO
X.V.COLOR
CONVERSION LENS
OPTION button
VIEW IMAGES button
Slide show button
YOUR LOCATION
button
Data file name
101-0005
Protected image
GB
ꢀ1
Parts and controls
facing out. This is convenient during playback
operations.
Figures in ( ) are reference pages.
(VIEW IMAGES) button (18)
POWER button (11)
Active Interface Shoe
NIGHTSHOT button (42)
(DISC BURN) button (28)
The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to
optional accessories such as a video light, a
flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be
turned on or off as you operate the POWER
switch on your camcorder.
RESET button
Press RESET using a pointed object.
Press RESET to initialize all the settings
including the clock setting.
GPS switch (HDR-CX500VE/CX505VE/
CX520VE)
Built-in microphone
Flash
Speaker
Lens (Sony G lens)
Camera recording lamp
Access lamp (Internal memory, “Memory
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the
The camera recording lamp lights up in red
during recording. The lamp flashes when the
remaining recording media capacity or battery
power is low.
camcorder is reading or writing data.
MANUAL button (42)
Remote sensor/Infrared port
MANUAL dial (42)
HDR-CX505VE: output only
LCD screen/Touch panel (11)
If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees, you
can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen
ꢀG2B
Power zoom lever (14, 16, 20)
PHOTO button (15)
MODE button (11)
(movie)/ (Photo) lamps (11)
Battery pack
/CHG (flash/charge) lamp (9)
A/V Remote Connector (21)
START/STOP button (13)
Hook for a shoulder belt
Tripod receptacle (42)
BATT (battery) release lever (10)
GB
ꢀ3
Index
Software .......................................24
Specifications ..............................57
Supplied items...............................4
A
I
AVCHD..................................26, 34
Image quality...............................48
Install............................................24
B
T
L
Battery............................................9
Tripod...........................................42
Troubleshooting..........................53
Turning the power on ................11
TV.................................................21
TV CONNECT Guide...............21
Battery of the Wireless Remote
Commander................................56
Blu-ray disc..................................31
Language......................................12
M
Macintosh....................................24
Maintenance................................55
“Memory Stick” media...............43
“Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo”
media............................................43
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
.......................................................43
Menus.....................................45, 48
Movies....................................13, 18
MY MENU..................................45
C
Capturing photos from a movie
.......................................................33
U
Care ..............................................55
Charging the battery abroad.....10
Charging the battery pack...........9
Computer.....................................23
Computer system........................23
Copy.............................................44
Copying a disc.............................32
Creating a disc ......................26, 34
Creating a high definition image
quality (HD) disc..................30, 38
Creating a standard definition
image quality (SD) disc........32, 39
Using a wall outlet (wall socket)
as a power source........................10
V
VISUAL INDEX .........................18
Volume.........................................19
W
O
Warning indicators.....................54
Windows......................................23
One Touch Disc Burn ................28
Operation beeps..........................11
Operation flow..............................6
OPTION MENU ........................46
Z
Zoom............................... 14, 16, 20
D
P
DATE/TIME................................11
DELETE.......................................41
Destination drive or folder........29
Disc recorder...............................39
Dubbing.......................................44
DVDirect Express.......................35
DVD writer..................... 34, 35, 38
Parts and controls.......................62
Photos ....................................15, 19
Playback.......................................18
Playing a high definition image
quality (HD) disc........................31
PMB (Picture Motion Browser)
.................................................23, 30
PMB Guide..................................30
Precautions..................................55
E
Easy PC Back-up ........................29
Editing movies ............................33
R
Recording ....................................13
Recording and playback time ...58
Recording media.........................43
Repair...........................................53
RESET..........................................62
F
Format..........................................41
G
You will find the menu lists
GPS...............................................17
S
H
Screen indicators ........................60
Self-diagnosis display.................54
Setting the date and time...........11
“Handycam” Handbook.............52
ꢀG4B
Additional information on this product and
answers to frequently asked questions can
be found at our Customer Support Website.
Printed on 70% or more recycled
paper using VOC (Volatile Organic
Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
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