Sony DCR TRV9 User Manual

3-862-548-32 (2)  
Dig it a l Vid e o  
Ca m e ra Re co rd e r  
Operating Instructions  
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,  
and retain it for future reference.  
DCR-TRV9  
©1998 by Sony Corporation  
Ta b le o f co n t e n t s  
Making a custom title ............................... 44  
Labeling a cassette .................................... 46  
Releasing the STEADYSHOT function .. 49  
Be fo re yo u b e g in  
Using this manual ....................................... 4  
Checking supplied accessories .................. 6  
fo r p la yin g b a ck/e d it in g —  
Watching on a TV screen ......................... 50  
Searching the boundaries of recorded  
tape with date – date search ............ 52  
Searching the boundaries of recorded  
tape with title – title search .............. 55  
Ge t t in g st a rt e d  
Charging and installing the battery  
pack ........................................................ 7  
Inserting a cassette .................................... 10  
Searching for a photo – photo search/  
photo scan ........................................... 56  
Returning to a pre-registered position ... 59  
Displaying recording data – data code  
function ................................................ 60  
Editing onto another tape ........................ 61  
Recording from a VCR or TV .................. 63  
Replacing recording on a tape – insert  
editing .................................................. 64  
Ba sic o p e ra t io n s  
Camera recording ..................................... 11  
Using the zoom feature ..................... 13  
Selecting the start/ stop mode .......... 14  
Shooting with the LCD screen .......... 15  
Letting the subject monitor the  
shot ................................................. 16  
Audio dubbing .......................................... 65  
Hints for better shooting .......................... 17  
Checking the recorded picture ................ 19  
Playing back a tape ................................... 20  
Searching for the end of the picture ....... 22  
Ad d it io n a l in fo rm a t io n  
Usable cassettes and playback modes ... 67  
Charging the vanadium-lithium  
battery in the camcorder ................... 68  
Ad va n ce d o p e ra t io n s  
Resetting the date and time ..................... 69  
Tips for using the battery pack ............... 70  
Maintenance information and  
Using alternative power sources ............ 23  
Using the house current .................... 23  
Using a car battery ............................. 23  
Changing the mode settings .................... 24  
precautions .......................................... 74  
Using your camcorder abroad ................ 77  
Trouble check ............................................ 78  
Self-diagnosis function ............................. 83  
Specifications ............................................. 84  
Identifying the parts ................................. 85  
Warning indicators ................................... 93  
Index ........................................................... 94  
fo r ca m e ra re co rd in g —  
Shooting with backlighting ..................... 28  
Using the FADER function ...................... 29  
Shooting in the dark (NightShot) ........... 30  
Photo recording ......................................... 31  
Using the wide mode function ................ 33  
Using the PROGRAM AE function ........ 34  
Focusing manually .................................... 36  
Enjoying picture effect ............................. 38  
Adjusting the exposure ............................ 40  
Superimposing a title ............................... 41  
3
Be fo re yo u b e g in  
Usin g t h is m a n u a l  
As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on the camcorder are shown in  
capital letters.  
e.g., Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.  
As indicated with in the illustrations, you can hear the beep sound to confirm your  
operation.  
No t e o n Ca sse t t e Me m o ry  
This camcorder is based on the DV format. You can only use mini DV cassettes with this  
camcorder. We recommend you to use a tape with cassette memory  
.
The functions which depend on whether the tape has the cassette memory or not are:  
• End Search (p. 19)  
• Date Search (p. 52)  
• Photo Search (p. 56).  
The functions you can operate only with the cassette memory are:  
• Title Search (p. 55)  
• Superimposing a title (p. 41)  
• Making a custom title (p. 44)  
• Labeling a cassette (p. 46)  
For details, see page 67.  
No t e o n TV co lo r syst e m s  
TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you  
need an NTSC system-based TV.  
Pre ca u t io n o n co p yrig h t  
Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted.  
Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the copyright  
laws.  
4
Usin g t h is m a n u a l  
Pre ca u t io n s o n ca m co rd e r ca re  
The LCD screen and/or the color view finder are manufactured using high-precision  
technology. How ever, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (red,  
blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD screen and/or in the  
view finder. These points are normal in the manufacturing process and do not affect  
the recorded picture in any w ay. Over 99.99% are operational for effective use.  
Do not let the camcorder get wet. Keep the camcorder away from rain and sea water.  
Letting the camcorder get wet may cause the unit to malfunction, and sometimes this  
malfunction cannot be repaired [a].  
Never leave the camcorder exposed to temperatures above 60°C (140°F), such as in a car  
parked in the sun or under direct sunlight [b].  
[a ]  
[b ]  
5
Ch e ckin g su p p lie d a cce sso rie s  
Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.  
2
5
8
3
1
4
7
6
1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 89)  
5 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 50, 62)  
2 NP-F330 battery pack (1) (p. 7)  
6 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 90)  
7 Lens cap (1) (p. 11)  
3 AC-V316 AC pow er adaptor (1) (p. 7, 23)  
The shape of the plug varies from region to  
region.  
8 View finder adaptor (1) (p. 9)  
4 R6 (Size AA) battery for Remote  
Commander (2) (p. 89)  
Contents of the recording cannot be compensated if recording or playback is not made  
due to a malfunction of the camcorder, video tape, etc.  
6
Ge t t in g st a rt e d  
Charging and installing the battery pack  
Before using your camcorder, you first need to charge and install the battery pack. To  
charge the battery pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor.  
Ch a rg in g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
Charge the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration.  
(1)Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.  
(2)Align the surface of the battery pack indicated by the zmark with the edge of the  
terminal shutter of the AC power adaptor. Then fit and slide the battery pack in the  
direction of the arrow. The CHARGE lamp (orange) lights up. Charging begins.  
When the CHARGE lamp goes out, normal charge is completed. For full charge, which  
allows you to use the battery longer than usual, leave the battery pack in place for  
approximately one hour. Unplug the unit from the wall outlet, then remove the battery  
pack and install it into the camcorder. You can also use the battery pack before it is  
completely charged.  
1
2
Ch a rg in g t im e  
Ba t t e ry p a ck  
NP-F330 (supplied)  
NP-F530  
Ch a rg in g t im e *  
130 (70)  
170 (110)  
NP-F550  
180 (120)  
NP-F730  
250 (190)  
NP-F750  
270 (210)  
NP-F930  
330 (270)  
NP-F950  
360 (300)  
The time required for a normal charge is indicated in parentheses.  
* Approximate minutes to charge an empty battery pack using the supplied AC power  
adaptor. (Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.)  
7
Ch a rg in g a n d in st a llin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
Ba t t e ry life  
While using w ith view finder  
Battery pack Continuous recording time *  
Typical recording time **  
40 (35)  
NP-F330 (supplied)  
NP-F530  
80 (70)  
125 (115)  
155 (140)  
275 (250)  
325 (285)  
430 (385)  
495 (450)  
65 (60)  
NP-F550  
85 (75)  
NP-F730  
150 (135)  
NP-F750  
175 (155)  
NP-F930  
235 (210)  
NP-F950  
270 (245)  
While using w ith LCD  
Battery pack  
Continuous  
Typical  
Playing  
recording t im e *  
recording t im e **  
t im e w it h LCD  
NP-F330 (supplied) 60 (55)  
30 (30)  
60 (55)  
NP-F530  
NP-F550  
NP-F730  
NP-F750  
NP-F930  
NP-F950  
100 (85)  
55 (45)  
100 (85)  
125 (110)  
215 (195)  
260 (230)  
355 (315)  
395 (350)  
70 (60)  
125 (110)  
215 (195)  
260 (230)  
355 (315)  
395 (350)  
120 (110)  
145 (130)  
200 (175)  
220 (195)  
Numbers in parentheses indicate the time when you use a normally charged battery.  
Battery life will be shorter if you use the camcorder in a cold environment.  
* Approximate continuous recording time indoors.  
** Approximate minutes when recording while you repeat recording start/ stop, zooming  
and turning the power on/ off. The actual battery life may be shorter.  
Notes on remaining battery time indication during recording  
• Remaining battery time is displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. However,  
the indication may not be displayed properly, depending on using conditions and  
circumstances.  
• When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about 1 minute for the correct  
remaining time to be displayed.  
To re m o ve t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.  
8
Ch a rg in g a n d in st a llin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
Notes on charging the battery pack  
The CHARGE lamp will remain lit for a while even if the battery pack is removed and the  
power cord is unplugged after charging the battery pack. This is normal.  
If the CHARGE lamp does not light, disconnect the power cord. After about one minute,  
reconnect the power cord again.  
You cannot charge the battery pack while you operate the camcorder using the AC power  
adaptor.  
When a fully charged battery pack is installed, the CHARGE lamp will light once, then go out.  
In st a llin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
(1)Lift up the viewfinder.  
(2)Insert the battery pack in the direction of the $ mark on the battery pack. Slide the  
battery pack down until it is locked.  
Attach the battery pack to the camcorder securely.  
2
1
Note on installing the NP-F730/F750 battery pack  
Use the camcoder while stretching out the viewfinder. Be careful not to catch your finger in  
when you fold the viewfinder back to the original position.  
Note on installing the NP-F930/F950 battery pack [a]  
Use the camcorder while lifting up the viewfinder.  
When you install the viewfinder adaptor, you can record a picture with stretching out the  
viewfinder while using the NP-F930/ F950 battery pack.  
Install the viewfinder adaptor by matching the adaptor groove and the finder tip shown in  
the figure. An eclipse may appear in the finder if you use the adaptor. This will not affect the  
recorded image.  
Note on the battery pack  
Do not carry the camcorder by grasping the battery pack.  
To re m o ve t h e b a t t e ry p a ck [b ]  
While pressing BATT, slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.  
Viewfinder adaptor  
[a ]  
[b ]  
BATT  
9
You can look at the demonstration of the functions available with this camcorder (p. 26).  
In se rt in g a ca sse t t e  
You can use mini DV cassette with  
logo* only.  
Make sure that the power source is installed.  
(1)Slide EJECT in the direction of the arrow. The cassette lid opens, then the cassette  
compartment opens automatically.  
(2)Insert a cassette with the window facing out into the cassette compartment.  
(3)Close the cassette compartment by pressing the  
mark on the cassette compartment.  
(4)Close the lid by pressing the mark until it clicks.  
*
is a trademark.  
EJECT  
1
2
3,4  
3
PUSH  
4
PUSH  
Notes  
When you open the lid immediately after you install the battery, the cassette compartment  
may not open. Close the lid and open it again.  
The cassette lid and the cassette compartment may not be closed when you press any part  
of the lid other than the  
mark.  
To e je ct t h e ca sse t t e  
Follow the procedure above and in step 2, take out the cassette.  
To p re ve n t a ccid e n t a l e ra su re  
Slide and open the tab on the cassette to expose the red mark. If you try to record with the  
red mark exposed, the L and 6 indicators flash on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder,  
and you cannot record on the tape. To re-record on this tape, slide and close the tab to cover  
the red mark.  
10  
Ba sic o p e ra t io n s  
Ca m e ra re co rd in g  
Make sure that the power source is installed and a cassette is inserted and that the START/  
STOP MODE switch inside the LCD panel is set to  
. Before you record one-time events,  
you may want to make a trial recording to make sure that the camcorder is working  
correctly.  
When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time to  
your time before you start recording (p. 69).  
(1)Remove the lens cap and pull the lens cap string to fix it.  
(2)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA. The  
camcorder is set to Standby mode.  
(3)Press START/ STOP.  
The camcorder starts recording. “REC” appears in the viewfinder. The camera recording  
lamp on the front of the camcorder also lights up.  
You can also select Recording mode, SP (standard play) mode or LP (long play) mode.  
Set REC MODE in the menu system according to the length of your planned recording  
before you start.  
2
3
1
POWER  
STBY  
:– –:– –  
POWER  
REC  
0:00:00  
60min  
40min  
To st o p re co rd in g m o m e n t a rily [a ]  
Press START/ STOP. The “STBY” indicator appears in the viewfinder (Standby mode).  
To fin ish re co rd in g [b ]  
Press START/ STOP again to stop recording. Set the POWER switch to OFF. Then, eject the  
cassette and remove the battery pack.  
POWER  
POWER  
V
POWER  
V
STBY  
0:35:20  
[a ]  
[b ]  
25min  
When you use mini DV cassette w ith cassette memory  
Read the instruction about cassette memory to use this function properly (p. 67).  
11  
Ca m e ra re co rd in g  
To fo cu s t h e vie w fin d e r le n s  
If you cannot see the indicators in the viewfinder clearly, or after someone else has used the  
camcorder, focus the viewfinder lens. Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever so that the  
indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus.  
Note on Standby mode  
If you leave the camcorder in Standby mode for 5 minutes while the cassette is inserted, the  
camcorder turns off automatically. This prevents wearing down the battery and wearing out  
the tape. To resume Standby mode, while pressing the small green button on the POWER  
switch, set it to OFF once, and then to CAMERA. To start recording, press START/ STOP.  
Note on Recording mode  
This camcorder records and plays back in SP (standard play) mode and in LP (long play)  
mode. Select SP or LP in the menu system. In LP mode, you can record 1.5 times as long as  
in SP mode.  
Notes on LP mode  
We recommend to use this camcorder to play back a tape recorded on this camcorder. If a  
tape recorded on other camcorder is played back on this camcorder, or vice versa, mosaic-  
pattern noise may appear.  
When you record in SP and LP modes on one tape or you record some scenes in LP mode,  
the playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly  
between scenes.  
When you record in LP mode, we recommend you to use a Sony Excellence/ Master mini  
DV cassette so that you can get the most out of your camcorder.  
You cannot make audio dubbing on a tape recorded in LP mode. Use the SP mode for the  
tape to be audio dubbed.  
Notes on the time code  
The time code indicates the recording or playback time, “0:00:00” (hours : minutes :  
seconds) in CAMERA mode and “0:00:00:00” (hours : minutes : seconds : frames) in VTR  
mode.  
Be sure not to make a blank portion when recording, because the time code will start from  
“0:00:00:00” again.  
This camcorder uses the drop frame mode.  
Note on the beep sound  
As indicated with in the illustrations, a beep sounds when you turn the power on or when  
you start recording, and two beeps sound when you stop recording, confirming the  
operation. Several beeps also sound as a warning of any unusual condition of the  
camcorder.  
Note that the beep sound is not recorded on the tape. If you do not want to hear the beep  
sound, select OFF in the menu system.  
12  
Ca m e ra re co rd in g  
Note on remaining tape indicator  
The indicator may not be displayed accurately depending on the tape. Though the indicator  
does not appear at the time of recording, it will appear in a few seconds.  
Usin g t h e zo o m fe a t u re  
Zooming is a recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the scene.  
For more professional-looking recordings, use the zoom function sparingly.  
T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer)  
W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away)  
W
T
W
T
Zo o m in g sp e e d (Va ria b le sp e e d zo o m in g )  
Press the power zoom switch a little for a relatively slow zoom; press it still more for a high-  
speed zoom.  
When you shoot a subject using a telephoto zoom  
If you cannot get a sharp focus while in extreme telephoto zoom, press the “W” side of the  
power zoom switch until the focus is sharp. You can shoot a subject that is at least about  
80 cm away from the lens surface in the telephoto position, or about 1 cm away in the wide-  
angle position.  
Notes on digital zoom  
More than 15x zoom is performed digitally, and the picture quality deteriorates as you go  
toward the “T” side. If you do not want to use the digital zoom, set the D ZOOM function  
to OFF in the menu system.  
The right side [a ] of the power zoom indicator shows the digital zooming zone, and the  
left side [b ] shows the optical zooming zone. If you set the D ZOOM function to OFF, the  
[a ] zone disappears.  
W
T
T
W
[a ]  
[b ]  
13  
Ca m e ra re co rd in g  
Se le ct in g t h e st a rt /st o p m o d e  
Your camcorder has two modes besides normal start/ stop mode. These modes enable you  
to take a series of quick shots resulting in a lively video.  
(1)Slide OPEN in the direction of the arrow and open the LCD panel.  
(2)Set START/ STOP MODE to the desired mode.  
: Recording starts when you press START/ STOP, and stops when you press it again  
(normal mode).  
ANTI GROUND SHOOTING : The camcorder records only while you press down  
START/ STOP so that you can avoid recording unnecessary scenes.  
5SEC : When you press START/ STOP, the camcorder records for 5 seconds and then  
stops automatically.  
(3)Press START/ STOP. Recording starts.  
If you selected 5SEC, five dots appear in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. The dots  
disappear at a rate of one per second as illustrated below. When five seconds elapse and all  
the dots disappear, the camcorder switches to Standby mode automatically.  
1
2
OPEN  
5
START/STOP MODE  
SEC  
ANTI GROUND  
SHOOTING  
3
POWER  
REC  
0:00:00  
REC  
0:00:04  
To e xt e n d t h e re co rd in g t im e in 5SEC m o d e  
Press START/ STOP again before all the dots disappear. Recording continues for about 5  
seconds from the moment you press START/ STOP.  
Note on 5SEC recording  
If you have turned off the indicators on the LCD screen, the dots do not appear.  
14  
Ca m e ra re co rd in g  
Sh o o t in g w it h t h e LCD scre e n  
You can also record the picture while looking at the LCD screen.  
When using the LCD screen, the viewfinder turns off automatically except in mirror mode.  
You cannot monitor the sound from the speaker during recording.  
(1)Slide OPEN in the direction of the arrow and open the LCD panel.  
(2)Adjust angle of the LCD panel.  
The LCD panel moves about 90 degrees to this side and about 180 degrees to the other  
side.  
To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen, press LCD BRIGHT + or –.  
The battery life is longer when the LCD panel is closed. Use the viewfinder instead of the  
LCD screen to save the battery power.  
2
1
180°  
OPEN  
90°  
90°  
Notes on the LCD panel  
When closing the LCD panel, turn it vertically until it clicks [a ].  
When turning the LCD panel, turn it always vertically; otherwise, the camcorder body  
may be damaged or the LCD panel may not close properly [b ].  
Close the LCD panel completely when not in use.  
Do not push nor touch the LCD panel while operating the camcorder.  
You may find it difficult to view the LCD screen due to glare when using the camcorder  
outdoors.  
1
[a ]  
[b ]  
2
15  
Ca m e ra re co rd in g  
Le t t in g t h e su b je ct m o n it o r t h e sh o t  
You can turn the LCD panel over so that it faces the other way and you can let the subject  
monitor the shot while shooting with the viewfinder.  
Turn the LCD panel up vertically. When you turn the LCD panel 180 degrees, the  
indicator appears on the LCD screen (mirror mode) and the time code and remaining tape  
indicators disappear.  
You can also use the Remote Commander.  
To cancel mirror mode  
Turn the LCD panel down toward the camcorder body.  
Notes on mirror mode  
When you turn the LCD panel about 90 degrees to 180 degrees, the camcorder enters  
mirror mode.  
Using the mirror mode, you can record yourself while watching yourself on the LCD.  
The picture on the LCD looks like a mirror-image while recording in mirror mode. The  
STBY indicator appears as Prand REC as r. Other indicators appear as mirror-image.  
Some indicators may not appear in mirror mode.  
While recording in mirror mode, you cannot operate the following functions: MENU,  
TITLE, and ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander.  
16  
Hin t s fo r b e t t e r sh o o t in g  
For hand-held shots, you will get better results by holding the camcorder according to the  
following suggestions:  
Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily  
manipulate the controls with your thumb. [a ]  
[a ]  
Place your elbows against your side.  
Place your left hand under the camcorder to support it.  
Place your eye against the viewfinder eyecup.  
Be sure not to touch the built-in microphone.  
Use the LCD panel frame or the viewfinder frame as a guide to determine the horizontal  
plane.  
You can also record in a low position to get an interesting angle. Lift the viewfinder up  
for record from a low position. [b ]  
You can also record in a low position or even in a high position using the LCD panel. [c]  
When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight, the LCD screen may be difficult  
to see. If this happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder.  
[b ]  
[c]  
17  
Hin t s fo r b e t t e r sh o o t in g  
Place the camcorder on a flat surface or use a tripod  
Try placing the camcorder on a table top or any other flat surface of suitable height. If you  
have a tripod for a still camera, you can also use it with the camcorder. When attaching a  
non-Sony tripod, make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 6.5 mm.  
Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw may damage the camcorder.  
Cautions on the LCD panel and on the view finder  
• Do not pick up the camcorder by the viewfinder or the LCD panel. [d ]  
• Do not place the camcorder so as to point the viewfinder or the LCD panel toward the  
sun. The inside of the viewfinder or the LCD panel may be damaged. Be careful when  
placing the camcorder under sunlight or by a window. [e ]  
[d ]  
[e ]  
18  
Ch e ckin g t h e re co rd e d p ict u re  
Using the EDITSEARCH, you can review the last recorded scene or check the recorded  
picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
(1)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA.  
(2)Press the – Œ side of EDITSEARCH momentarily; the last few seconds of the recorded  
portion plays back (Rec Review ). Hold down the – side of EDITSEARCH until the  
camcorder goes back to the scene you want. The last recorded portion is played back. To  
go forward, hold down the + side (Edit Search).  
POWER  
ESEARCH  
2
1
EDITSEARC
EDITSEARC
END SEARCH  
To st o p p la yb a ck  
Release EDITSEARCH.  
To g o b a ck t o t h e la st re co rd e d p o in t (END SEARCH)  
Press END SEARCH. The last recorded point is played back for about 5 seconds and stops.  
Note that when you use a tape without cassette memory, this function does not work once  
you eject the cassette after recording.  
To b e g in re -re co rd in g  
Press START/ STOP. Re-recording begins from the point you released EDITSEARCH.  
Provided you do not eject the tape, the transition between the last scene you recorded and  
the next scene you record will be smooth.  
19  
Pla yin g b a ck a t a p e  
You can monitor the playback picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
(1)Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out.  
(2)Slide OPEN in the direction of the arrow and open the LCD panel.  
(3)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR.  
(4)Press 0to rewind the tape.  
(5)Press ·to start playback.  
(6)Adjust the volume using VOL +/ – and the brightness of the LCD screen using LCD  
BRIGHT +/ –.  
You can also monitor the picture on a TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to a TV or  
VCR.  
4
5
REW  
REW  
PLAY  
FF  
PLAY  
FF  
POWER  
1
3
2
LCD BRIGHT  
VOL  
OPEN  
DISPLAY  
To stop playback, press π.  
To rew ind the tape, press 0.  
To fast-forw ard the tape rapidly, press ).  
Usin g t h e Re m o t e Co m m a n d e r  
You can control playback using the supplied Remote Commander. Before using the Remote  
Commander, insert the R6 (size AA) batteries .  
To display the LCD screen/view finder screen indicators  
Press DISPLAY.  
To erase the indicators, press again.  
Notes on screen indicators  
The screen indicator disappears when the title is displayed.  
When you play back a tape using a “InfoLITHIUM” battery, Bindicates the remaining  
battery capacity. The remaining battery time in minutes is not displayed.  
20  
Pla yin g b a ck a t a p e  
Using headphones  
Connect headphones (not supplied) to the 2jack. You can adjust the volume of the  
headphones using VOL +/ –.  
To view the playback picture in the view finder  
Close the LCD panel. The viewfinder turns on automatically.  
When using the viewfinder, you can monitor the sound only by using headphones.  
To view on the LCD screen again, open the LCD panel. The viewfinder turns off  
automatically.  
Va rio u s p la yb a ck m o d e s  
To vie w a st ill p ict u re (p la yb a ck p a u se )  
Press P during playback. To resume playback, press P or ·.  
To lo ca t e a sce n e (p ict u re se a rch )  
Keep pressing 0or )during playback. To resume normal playback, release the button.  
To m o n it o r t h e h ig h -sp e e d p ict u re w h ile a d va n cin g t h e t a p e o r  
re w in d in g (skip sca n )  
Keep pressing 0while rewinding or )while advancing the tape. To resume normal  
rewinding or fast-forward, release the button.  
To vie w t h e p ict u re a t 1/3 sp e e d (slo w p la yb a ck)  
Press &on the Remote Commander during playback. For slow playback in reverse  
direction, press <, then press &. To resume normal playback, press ·.  
To vie w t h e p ict u re a t d o u b le sp e e d  
For double speed playback in the reverse direction, press <, then press × 2 on the Remote  
Commander during playback. For double speed playback in the forward direction, press  
>, then press × 2 during playback. To resume normal playback, press ·.  
To vie w t h e p ict u re fra m e -b y-fra m e  
Press ' or 7 on the Remote Commander in playback pause mode. If you keep pressing  
the button, you can view the picture at 1/ 30 speed. To resume normal playback, press ·.  
To ch a n g e t h e p la yb a ck d ire ct io n  
Press < on the Remote Commander for reverse direction or > on the Remote Commander  
for forward direction during playback. To resume normal playback, press · .  
Notes on playback  
The sound is muted in the various playback modes.  
During playback other than normal playback, the previous recording may appear in  
mosaic image. This is not malfunction.  
When playback pause mode lasts for 5 minutes, the camcorder automatically enters stop  
mode. To resume playback, press ·.  
Note on slow playback  
The slow playback can be performed smoothly on this camcorder; however, this function  
does not work for an output signal from the DV IN/ OUT jack.  
21  
Se a rch in g fo r t h e e n d o f t h e p ict u re  
You can go to the end of the recorded portion after you record and play back the tape. The  
tape starts rewinding or fast-forwarding and the last about 5 seconds of the recorded portion  
plays back. Then the tape stops at the end of the recorded picture (End Search).  
Open the LCD panel and press END SEARCH during recording standby.  
This function works when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA or VTR.  
END SEARCH  
Notes on End Search  
When you use a tape without cassette memory, the End Search function does not work  
once you eject the cassette after recording.  
When you use a tape with cassette memory, the End Search function works once you eject  
the cassette. When you play back a tape which has a blank portion in the beginning or  
between the recorded portions, the End Search function will not work correctly.  
22  
Ad va n ce d o p e ra t io n s  
Usin g a lt e rn a t ive p o w e r so u rce s  
You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack, house  
current, and 12/ 24 V car battery. Choose the appropriate power source depending on where  
you want to use your camcorder.  
Pla ce  
Po w e r so u rce  
Acce sso ry t o b e u se d  
Indoors  
House current  
Supplied AC power adaptor  
Outdoors Battery pack  
Battery pack NP-F330 (supplied), NP-F530, NP-F550, NP-  
F730, NP-F750, NP-F930, NP-F950  
In the car 12 V or 24 V car battery  
Note on pow er sources  
Sony DC adaptor/ charger DC-V700  
Disconnecting the power source or removing the battery pack during recording or playback  
may damage the inserted tape. If this happens, restore the power supply again immediately.  
Usin g t h e h o u se cu rre n t  
To use the supplied AC power adaptor:  
(1)Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.  
(2)Lift up the viewfinder.  
(3)Slide the connecting plate down into the guides at the rear of the camcorder until it clicks.  
1
2
3
To remove the connecting plate  
The connecting plate is removed in the same way as the battery pack.  
WARNING  
The power cord must only be changed at a qualified service shop.  
PRECAUTION  
The set is not disconnected from the AC power source (house current) as long as it is  
connected to the power cord, even if the set itself has been turned off.  
Usin g a ca r b a t t e ry  
Use a DC adaptor/ charger such as Sony DC-V700 (not supplied). Connect the car battery  
cord to the cigarette lighter socket of a car (12 V or 24 V). Connect the DC adaptor/ charger  
and the camcorder using the DK-415 (supplied with DC-V700) connecting cord.  
This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video  
product.  
When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you purchase  
accessories with this “GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES” mark.  
23  
Ch a n g in g t h e m o d e se t t in g s  
You can change the mode settings in the menu system to further enjoy the features and  
functions of the camcorder.  
(1)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired item, then press the CONTROL dial. Only  
the selected item is displayed.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired mode, then press the CONTROL dial. If  
you want to change the other modes, repeat steps 2 and 3.  
(4)Press MENU to erase the menu display.  
MENU  
1
2
3
CONTROL  
MENU  
COMMANDER  
HiFi SOUND  
REC MODE  
COMMANDER  
HiFi SOUND  
REC MODE  
AUDIO MODE  
TITLEERASE  
TITLE DSPL  
TAPE TITLE  
ON  
ON  
MENU  
MENU  
COMMANDER  
HiFi SOUND  
REC MODE  
[
]
MENU :END  
SP  
CONTROL  
MENU  
REC MODE  
SP  
LP  
MENU  
CONTROL  
REC MODE  
SP  
LP  
MENU  
REC MODE  
SP  
LP  
CONTROL  
4
MENU  
MENU  
COMMANDER  
HiFi SOUND  
REC MODE  
LP  
While recording in mirror mode, you cannot operate the menu system.  
Note on changing the mode settings  
Menu items differ depending on the setting of the POWER switch to VTR or CAMERA.  
24  
Ch a n g in g t h e m o d e se t t in g s  
Se le ct in g t h e m o d e se t t in g o f e a ch it e m  
It e m s fo r b o t h CAMERA a n d VTR m o d e s  
COMMANDER* <ON/OFF>  
Select ON when using the supplied Remote Commander for the camcorder.  
Select OFF when not using the Remote Commander.  
REC MODE <SP/LP>  
Select SP when recording in SP (standard play) mode.  
Select LP when recording in LP (long play) mode.  
AUDIO MODE <12BIT/16BIT>  
Normally select 12BIT to record two stereo sound.  
Select 16BIT to record the one stereo sound with high quality.  
BEEP <ON/OFF>  
Select ON so that beeps sound when you start/ stop recording, etc.  
Select OFF when you do not want to hear the beep sound.  
TITLEERASE  
Erase the title you have superimposed.  
LCD B.L. <BRT NORMAL/BRIGHT>  
Normally select BRT NORMAL.  
Select BRIGHT when the LCD panel is dark.  
Even if you adjust the LCD B.L., the recorded picture is not affected.  
LCD COLOR  
Select this item and change the level of the indicator by turning the CONTROL dial up (+) or  
down (–) to adjust the color intensity of the picture.  
VF BRIGHT  
Close the LCD panel.  
Select this item to adjust the brightness of the viewfinder. The viewfinder becomes brighter  
when you turn the CONTROL dial up (+), and darker when you turn it down (–).  
DISPLAY <LCD or V-OUT/LCD >  
Normally select LCD.  
Select V-OUT/ LCD to display indicator both on the LCD panel and TV screen.  
AUTO TV ON <ON/OFF>  
You can use this feature only with Sony TVs.  
Select ON to turn on the TV automatically when using the LASER LINK function.  
Select OFF not to turn on the TV.  
TV INPUT <VIDEO1/VIDEO2/VIDEO3/OFF>  
Select 1, 2 or 3 of the video input on the TV which the IR receiver (not supplied) is connected  
to when using the LASER LINK function.  
25  
Ch a n g in g t h e m o d e se t t in g s  
It e m s fo r CAMERA m o d e o n ly  
D ZOOM <ON/OFF>  
• Select ON to activate digital zooming.  
• Select OFF not to use the digital zoom. The camcorder goes back to 15x optical zoom.  
STEADYSHOT <ON/OFF>  
Normally select ON.  
• Select OFF when you do not have to worry about camera-shake.  
REC LAMP <ON/OFF>  
Normally select ON.  
• Select OFF when you do not want the camera recording/ battery lamp at the front of the  
unit to light up.  
N.S.LIGHT <ON/OFF>  
• Select ON when you use the NightShot Light.  
• Select OFF when you do not use the NightShot Light.  
CLOCK SET  
Select this item to reset the date or time.  
DEMO MODE <STBY/ON or OFF>  
• Select STBY/ ON to glance over the function of camcorder.  
• Select OFF not to display demonstration.  
Notes on DEMO MODE  
• DEMO MODE is set to STBY (Standby)/ ON at the factory and the demonstration starts  
about 10 minutes after you set the POWER switch to CAMERA without inserting a  
cassette.  
Note that you cannot select STBY/ ON of DEMO MODE in the menu system.  
• You cannot select DEMO MODE when a cassette is inserted in the camcorder.  
• If you insert a cassette during the demonstration, the demonstration stops. You can start  
recording as usual. DEMO MODE automatically returns to STBY/ ON.  
• When you set NIGHTSHOT to ON, NIGHTSHOT indicator appears in the viewfinder or  
on the LCD screen. At this time, you cannot select DEMO MODE in the menu system.  
To look at the demonstration at once  
Eject the cassette, if inserted. Select STBY/ ON of DEMO MODE and erase the menu display.  
The demonstration will begin.  
When you turn off the camcorder once, DEMO MODE automatically returns to STBY/ ON.  
It e m s fo r VTR m o d e o n ly  
HiFi SOUND* <STEREO/1/2>  
• Select STEREO to play back stereo sound or main and sub sound (for dual sound).  
• Select 1 to play back the left sound (for stereo sound) or main sound (for dual sound).  
• Select 2 to play back the right sound (for stereo sound) or sub sound (for dual sound).  
TITLE DSPL <ON/OFF>  
• Select ON to display the title you have superimposed.  
• Select OFF not to display the title.  
26  
Ch a n g in g t h e m o d e se t t in g s  
TAPE TITLE  
Select this item to label the cassette tape.  
AUDIO MIX*  
Select this item and adjust the balance between the stereo 1 and stereo 2 by turning the  
CONTROL dial.  
CM SEARCH <ON/OFF>  
Select ON to search using cassette memory.  
Select OFF to search without using cassette memory.  
DATA CODE <DATE/CAM or DATE>  
Select DATE/ CAM to display date and recording data during playback.  
Select DATE to display date during playback.  
* These settings return to the default 5 minutes or more after the power source is  
disconnected or battery is removed. As far as the items without an asterisk are concerned,  
their settings are retained even when the power source is disconnected or battery is  
removed, as long as the vanadium-lithium battery is charged.  
When recording a close subject  
When REC LAMP is set to ON, the red camera recording lamp on the front of the camcorder  
may reflect on the subject if it is close. In this case, we recommend you set REC LAMP to  
OFF.  
Notes  
When playing back a tape recorded in the 16-bit mode, you cannot adjust the balance in  
AUDIO MIX.  
If you select 16BIT in AUDIO MODE menu, you cannot add an audio sound.  
If you select BRIGHT in LCD B.L. menu, the battery life while recording becomes 10 to  
20% shorter. When you use the power sources except for a battery, the menu item LCD  
B.L. is set to BRIGHT automatically and the item does not appear in the screen.  
27  
Sh o o t in g w it h b a cklig h t in g  
When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light  
background, use the BACK LIGHT function.  
Press BACK LIGHT. The cindicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
[a ]  
BACK LIGHT  
[b ]  
[a ]Subject is too dark because of backlight.  
[b ]Subject becomes bright with backlight compensation.  
Aft e r sh o o t in g  
Be sure to release this adjustment condition by pressing BACK LIGHT again. The c  
indicator disappears. Otherwise, the picture will be too bright under normal lighting  
condition.  
This function is also effective under the follow ing conditions:  
A subject with a light source nearby or a mirror reflecting light.  
A white subject against a white background. Especially when you shoot a person wearing  
shiny clothes made of silk or synthetic fiber, his or her face tends to become dark if you do  
not use this function.  
Note on the BACK LIGHT function  
When you press EXPOSURE, the BACK LIGHT function is cancelled.  
28  
Usin g t h e FADER fu n ct io n  
You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance.  
When fading in, the picture gradually fades in from black while the sound increases. When fading out,  
the picture gradually fades to black while the sound decreases.  
Wh e n fa d in g in [a ]  
(1)While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER until the desired indicator  
flashes.  
(2)Press START/ STOP to start recording. The fade indicator stops flashing.  
Wh e n fa d in g o u t [b ]  
(1)During recording, press FADER until the desired indicator flashes.  
(2)Press START/ STOP to stop recording. The fade indicator stops flashing, and then  
recording stops.  
[a ]  
STBY  
REC  
FADER  
M.FADER  
STBY  
REC  
[b ]  
1
2
FADER  
M.FADER  
POWER  
FADER  
To cancel the fader function  
Before pressing START/ STOP, press FADER until the fade indicator disappears.  
You cannot use the fader function in the follow ing situations  
– The START/ STOP MODE switch is set to  
ANTI GROUND SHOOTING or 5SEC.  
– The camcorder is in the photo recording.  
– A title is displayed in the viewfinder or on the LCD screen.  
29  
Sh o o t in g in t h e d a rk (Nig h t Sh o t )  
The NightShot function enables you to shoot a subject in a dark place. You can achieve a  
satisfactory recording of the ecology of nocturnal animals for observation with this function.  
This function may record picture nearly in monochrome.  
(1)While the camcorder is in Standby mode, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. After both  
indicator and “NIGHTSHOT” flash, only  
(2)Press START/ STOP to start recording. After both  
only indicator lights up.  
indicator lights up.  
indicator and “NIGHTSHOT” flash,  
NIGHTSHOT  
OFF ON  
To ca n ce l t h e Nig h t Sh o t fu n ct io n  
Slide NIGHTSHOT to OFF.  
Usin g t h e Nig h t Sh o t Lig h t  
When you set N.S.LIGHT to ON in the menu system, the picture will be more clear.  
Set N.S.LIGHT to OFF in the menu system to save the battery power. The NightShot effect  
becomes weak instead.  
NightShot Light rays are infrared and are therefore invisible. The maximum limit of  
NightShot Light is about 3 m.  
Notes on the NightShot  
When you keep setting NIGHTSHOT to ON in normal recording, the color may not be  
recorded properly.  
If focusing is difficult with the autofocus mode when using the NightShot function, use  
manual focus.  
30  
Ph o t o re co rd in g  
You can record a still picture like a photograph for about seven seconds. This photo  
recording is useful when you want to enjoy a picture such as a photograph or when you  
print a picture using a video printer (not supplied). You can record about 510 pictures on a  
60-minute tape in SP mode.  
(1)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA.  
(2)Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a still picture and “PHOTO CAPTURE” appear on  
the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
Recording does not start yet. To change the still picture, release PHOTO, select still  
picture again, and keep pressing PHOTO lightly again.  
If you press PHOTO on the Remote Commander when a still picture appears on the LCD  
screen or in the viewfinder, the camcorder will record that still picture. However, you  
cannot select other still pictures by using this button.  
(3)Press PHOTO deeper.  
“PHOTO REC” flashes and the still picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder is  
recorded for about seven seconds. The sound during those seven seconds is also recorded  
and the pictures appear like an animation on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. You  
cannot change the POWER switch or press PHOTO during recording.  
1
2,3  
POWER  
PHOTO  
Note on the still picture  
When the still picture recorded on this camcorder is played back on another VCR, the  
picture may be blurred. This is not a malfunction.  
When you press PHOTO w hile recording a photo  
The picture on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder whenever you press PHOTO will be  
recorded. You cannot check the recorded picture by pressing PHOTO lightly.  
After the moving picture is recorded as a still picture for about seven seconds, the camcorder  
will go back to Standby mode.  
31  
Ph o t o re co rd in g  
Prin t in g t h e st ill p ict u re  
You can print a still picture by using the video printer (not supplied). Connect the video  
printer using the S video connecting cable (not supplied). Refer to the operating instruction  
of the video printer as well.  
Video printer  
LINE IN  
VIDEO S VIDEO  
S VIDEO  
AUDIO/ VIDEO  
Ç: Signal flow  
(not supplied)  
If the video printer is not equipped w ith S VIDEO input  
Use the supplied A/ V connecting cable. Connect it to the AUDIO/ VIDEO jack and connect  
the yellow plug of the cable to the VIDEO input of the video printer.  
32  
Usin g t h e w id e m o d e fu n ct io n  
You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE).  
The picture with black bands at the top and the bottom on the LCD screen or in the  
viewfinder [a ] is normal. The picture on a normal TV [b ] is horizontally compressed. You  
can watch the picture of normal images on a wide-screen TV [c].  
[b ]  
[a ]  
16:9 WIDE  
[c]  
While in Standby mode, press 16:9WIDE. 16:9WIDE appears on the LCD screen.  
16:9WIDE  
16:9WIDE  
To ca n ce l w id e m o d e  
Press 16:9WIDE again.  
To w a t ch t h e t a p e re co rd e d in w id e m o d e  
To watch the tape recorded in 16:9WIDE mode, set it to full mode. For details, refer to the  
operating instruction of your TV.  
Note that the picture recorded in 16:9WIDE mode looks compressed on a normal TV.  
Note on w ide mode  
You cannot select or cancel the wide mode during recording.  
33  
Usin g t h e PROGRAM AE fu n ct io n  
You can select from six PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) modes to suit your shooting  
situation. When you use PROGRAM AE, you can get a portrait effect (the subject is in focus  
and the background is out of focus), capture high-speed action, record night views, etc.  
Se le ct in g t h e b e st m o d e  
Select a proper PROGRAM AE mode referring to the following description.  
: Spotlight mode  
Recording a subject spotlighted on a stage or at a wedding ceremony, etc.  
: Soft portrait mode  
To record  
A still subject such as a person or flower  
A softened picture  
A person in clearer flesh tones  
: Sports lesson mode  
Capturing high-speed action in sports such as golf or tennis  
: Beach & Ski mode  
Recording a person in a place such as on the beach or in the ski slopes where there is a lot of  
reflection  
: Sunset & Moon mode  
Recording sunset, night views, fireworks or neon signs  
: Landscape mode  
Recording a landscape through a window or wire net  
Notes on focus setting  
In the Spotlight, Sports lesson and Beach & Ski modes, you cannot take close-ups because  
the camcorder is set to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance.  
In the Sunset & Moon and Landscape modes, the camcorder is set to focus only on distant  
subjects.  
34  
Usin g t h e PROGRAM AE fu n ct io n  
Usin g t h e PROGRAM AE fu n ct io n  
(1)While the camcorder is in recording or Standby mode, press PROGRAM AE.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial so that the symbol of the desired PROGRAM AE mode matches  
the indicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
CONTROL  
2
PROGRAM  
1
AE  
To re t u rn t o a u t o m a t ic a d ju st m e n t m o d e  
Press PROGRAM AE so that the indicator disappears.  
Note on shutter speed  
The shutter speed in each PROGRAM AE mode is as follows:  
Soft portrait mode – from 1/ 60 to 1/ 500  
Sports lesson mode – from 1/ 250 to 1/ 4000  
Beach & Ski mode – from 1/ 60 to 1/ 250  
35  
Fo cu sin g m a n u a lly  
Wh e n t o u se m a n u a l fo cu s  
In the following cases you should obtain better results by adjusting the focus manually.  
[a ]  
[b ]  
[c]  
[d ]  
Insufficient light [a ]  
Subjects with little contrast — walls, sky, etc. [b ]  
Too much brightness behind the subject [c]  
Horizontal stripes [d ]  
Subjects through frosted glass  
Subjects beyond nets, etc.  
Bright subject or subject reflecting light  
Shooting a stationary subject when using a tripod  
36  
Fo cu sin g m a n u a lly  
Fo cu sin g m a n u a lly  
When focusing manually, first focus in telephoto before recording, and then reset the shot  
length.  
(1)Slide FOCUS down to MANUAL. The findicator appears on the LCD screen or in the  
viewfinder.  
(2)Turn the focus ring to focus on the subject.  
1
FOCUS  
AUTO  
2
MANUAL  
To fo cu s in in fin it y  
Slide FOCUS to INFINITY.  
indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
This function is useful when the nearer subject is focused automatically, and you want to  
focus the subject faraway.  
To re t u rn t o t h e a u t o fo cu s m o d e  
Slide FOCUS up to AUTO to turn off for  
indicator.  
To shoot in relatively dark places or to shoot the subject moving quickly outside  
Shoot at wide-angle after focusing in the telephoto position.  
If lights up  
Subject is too close.  
37  
En jo yin g p ict u re e ffe ct  
Se le ct in g p ict u re e ffe ct  
You can make pictures like those of television with the Picture Effect function.  
[a ]  
[b ]  
[c]  
[d ]  
[e ]  
[f]  
PASTEL [a ]  
The picture is in pastel tones.  
NEG. ART [b ]  
The color of the picture is reversed.  
SEPIA  
The picture is sepia.  
B&W  
The picture is monochrome (black and white).  
SOLARIZE [c]  
The light intensity is clearer, and the picture looks like an illustration.  
MOSAIC [d ]  
The picture is mosaic.  
SLIM [e ]  
The picture expands vertically.  
STRETCH [f]  
The picture expands horizontally.  
38  
En jo yin g p ict u re e ffe ct  
Usin g p ict u re e ffe ct fu n ct io n  
(1)While in Standby mode, press PICTURE EFFECT.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired picture effect mode.  
CONTROL  
2
STRETCH  
SLIM  
MOSAIC  
SOLARIZE  
B&W  
SEPIA  
NEG.ART  
PASTEL  
1
PICTURE EFFECT  
To re t u rn t o n o rm a l m o d e  
Press PICTURE EFFECT so that the indicator disappears.  
Note on the picture effect  
When you turn the power off, the camcorder returns automatically to normal mode.  
39  
Ad ju st in g t h e e xp o su re  
Wh e n t o a d ju st t h e e xp o su re  
Adjust the exposure manually under the following cases.  
[a ]  
[b ]  
[a ]  
The background is too bright (back lighting)  
Insufficient light: most of the picture is dark  
[b ]  
Bright subject and dark background  
To record the darkness faithfully  
Ad ju st in g t h e e xp o su re  
(1)Press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the  
viewfinder.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to adjust the exposure. The exposure is locked at the adjusted  
brightness.  
2
CONTROL  
1
EXPOSURE  
To re t u rn t o a u t o m a t ic e xp o su re m o d e  
Press EXPOSURE to turn off the exposure indicator.  
Notes  
The CONTROL dial does not have a stop position.  
If you press PROGRAM AE, the exposure comes back to automatic adjustment again.  
When you adjust the exposure manually, you cannot use the BACK LIGHT function.  
40  
Su p e rim p o sin g a t it le  
If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the titles while recording or  
after recording. When you play back the tape, the title is displayed for 5 seconds from the  
point where you superimposed it.  
You can select from eight preset titles and one original (CUSTOM TITLE) to superimpose  
over the picture.  
Su p e rim p o sin g t it le s  
(1)Press TITLE to display the titles on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the title, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the color, size, or position, then press the CONTROL  
dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired item, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the title is arranged as desired.  
(6)Press the CONTROL dial again to complete the setting.  
TITLE MODE  
TITLE  
1
2
HELLO  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
CONTROL  
TITLE MODE  
HELLO  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
TITLE MODE  
HELLO  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
CONGRATULATIONS!  
OUR SWEET BABY  
WEDDING  
TITLE MODE  
HELLO  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
VACATION  
CONTROL  
[
]
TITLE :END  
TITLE MODE  
HELLO  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
TITLE  
SIZE SM  
3,4,5  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
CONTROL  
TITLE  
SIZE LG  
HAPPY  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
TITLE  
SAVE  
6
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
41  
Su p e rim p o sin g a t it le  
Wh ile yo u a re p la yin g b a ck, p a u sin g , o r re co rd in g  
After step 6, “SAVE” appears on the screen for 5 seconds and the title is set.  
Wh ile in St a n d b y m o d e  
After step 6, the “TITLE” indicator appears. And when you press START/ STOP to start  
recording, “SAVE” appears on the screen for 5 seconds and the title is set.  
Titles placed from the top of the screen as follow s:  
HELLO ˜HAPPY BIRTHDAY ˜HAPPY HOLIDAYS ˜CONGRATULATIONS! ˜  
OUR SWEET BABY ˜WEDDING ˜VACATION ˜THE END˜CUSTOM TITLE.  
When you have stored an original title  
The title appears above “CUSTOM TITLE”.  
Title colors (“COL) changes as follow s:  
WHT (White) ˜YEL (Yellow) ˜CYAN (Cyan) ˜GRN (Green)˜VIO (Violet)˜RED  
(Red)˜BLUE (Blue).  
Title size (“SIZE”) changes as follow s:  
LG (Large)˜SM (Small).  
Title position (“POS”) changes as follow s:  
If you select the title size “LG”, you can choose 8 positions. When you select the title size  
“SM”, you can choose 9 positions at all.  
To display no title  
Select OFF in the TITLE DSPL menu. But the title is displayed in case of Edit Search or Rec  
Review regardless of the menu settings.  
Notes on titles  
While the title is displayed, the picture does not fade in or out.  
You cannot superimpose a title to a blank portion of the tape.  
The titles you superimposed are displayed by only using the DV format video equipment  
with index titler function.  
When you are searching the tape using the other video equipment, the portion of the tape  
you superimpose the title may be detected as an index signal.  
Notes on the cassettes  
If you use a cassette tape set to prevent accidental erasure, you cannot superimpose the  
title. Slide the protect tab so that the red portion is not visible.  
You can superimpose about 11 to 20 titles in one cassette, if one title consists of about 5  
characters.  
If the tape has too many index signals and photo data, you may not be able to  
superimpose a title because the memory is full.  
42  
Su p e rim p o sin g a t it le  
Era sin g a t it le  
(1)Press MENU to display the menu.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to select TITLEERASE, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the title you want to erase, then press the CONTROL  
dial.  
(4)Make sure the title is the one you want to erase, then press the CONTROL dial again.  
(5)Press MENU to erase the menu display.  
MENU  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
2
3
1,5  
MENU  
TITLEERASE  
MENU  
REC MODE  
AUDIO MODE  
ZOOM  
STEADYSHOT  
BEEP  
1
2
3
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
WEDDING  
HELLO  
D
TITLEERASE  
LCD B.L.  
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
MENU :END  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
ERASE?  
MENU  
TITLEERASE  
CONTROL  
4
1
2
3
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
WEDDING  
HELLO  
1
2
3
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
WEDDING  
HELLO  
[
]
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
EXEC :ERASE  
MENU :END  
Note  
If you use a cassette tape set to prevent accidental erasure, you cannot erase the title. Slide  
the protect tab so that the red portion is not visible.  
43  
Ma kin g a cu st o m t it le  
If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can make one title of up to 20 characters and  
store it in memory.  
(1)Press TITLE to display the titles on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to select CUSTOM TITLE, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the column of the desired character, then press the  
CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired character, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you finish the title.  
(6)Turn the CONTROL dial to select [ ], then press the CONTROL dial.  
TITLE  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
1
2
TITLE  
HELLO  
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
CONGRATULATIONS!  
OUR SWEET BABY  
WEDDING  
CUSTOM TITLE  
TITLE  
HAPPY HOLIDAYS  
CONGRATULATIONS!  
OUR SWEET BABY  
WEDDING  
VACATION  
THE END  
CUSTOM TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
]
[
[
]
VACATION  
[
]
TITLE :END  
[
]
[
]
TITLE :END  
TITLE :END  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
3,4,5  
CUSTOM TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
CUSTOM TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
TITLE :END  
TITLE :END  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
6
CUSTOM TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
CUSTOM TITLE  
M–––––––––––––––––––  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
CUSTOM TITLE  
MUSIC–––––––––––––––  
[
]
[
]
TITLE :END  
TITLE :END  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
[
]
[
]
[
]
TITLE :END  
44  
Ma kin g a cu st o m t it le  
To e ra se a ch a ra ct e r  
In step 3, turn the CONTROL dial to select [ M ] then press the CONTROL dial. The last  
character is erased.  
To ch a n g e t h e t it le yo u h a ve m a d e  
In step 2, turn the CONTROL dial to select CUSTOM TITLE, then press the CONTROL dial.  
Erase characters one after another, then make the new title again.  
If it takes more than 5 minutes to make a title  
If the Standby mode lasts for more than 5 minutes with a cassette inserted, the power will be  
turned off automatically. If the power is turned off while you are making a title, set the  
POWER switch to OFF once, then to CAMERA. The title you have made remains stored in  
memory.  
45  
La b e lin g a ca sse t t e  
If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can label a cassette. The label can consist of up  
to 10 characters and is stored in cassette memory. When you insert the labeled cassette and  
turn the power on, the label is displayed on the LCD screen, in the viewfinder, or on the TV  
screen.  
(1)Insert the cassette you want to label.  
(2)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(3)Press MENU to display the menu.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select TAPE TITLE, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the column of the desired character, then press the  
CONTROL dial.  
(6)Turn the CONTROL dial to select the desired character, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(7)Repeat steps 5 and 6 until you finish the label.  
(8)Turn the CONTROL dial to select [ ], then press the CONTROL dial.  
46  
La b e lin g a ca sse t t e  
POWER  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
2
4
MENU TAPE TITLE  
MENU  
HiFi SOUND  
REC MODE  
AUDIO MODE  
TITLEERASE  
TITLE DSPL  
TAPE TITLE  
BEEP  
––––––––––––––––––––  
MENU  
3
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
]
]
[
[
––––––––––  
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
MENU :END  
1
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
5,6,7  
MENU TAPE TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
MENU TAPE TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
MENU :END  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
8
MENU TAPE TITLE  
––––––––––––––––––––  
MENU TAPE TITLE  
M–––––––––––––––––––  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
[
]
[
]
[
]
[
]
MENU TAPE TITLE  
MUSIC–––––––––––––––  
ABCDE 1 2 3 4 5  
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
MENU :END  
FGH I  
J
6 7 8 9 0  
K LMNO  
PQRST  
UVWXY  
Z& ? !  
,
.
/
-
[
]
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
47  
La b e lin g a ca sse t t e  
To e ra se a ch a ra ct e r  
In step 5 turn the CONTROL dial to select [ M ], then press the CONTROL dial. The last  
character is erased.  
To ch a n g e t h e la b e l yo u h a ve m a d e  
Insert the cassette to change the label, and operate in the same way to make a new label.  
If the  
mark appears in step 4  
The cassette memory is full. If you erase the title in the cassette, you can label it.  
If you have superimposed titles in the cassette  
When the label is displayed, up to 4 titles also appear.  
Note on “-----” indicator displayed on the LCD screen or in the view finder  
The “-----” indicates the number of characters you can select for the label. When the “-----”  
indicator has fewer than 10 spaces, the cassette memory is full.  
Note on the cassettes  
If you use a cassette tape set to prevent accidental erasure, you cannot label it. Slide the  
protect tab so that the red portion is not visible.  
48  
Releasing the STEADYSHOT function  
When you shoot, the  
indicator appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. This  
indicates that the SteadyShot function is working and the camcorder compensates for  
camera-shake.  
You can release the SteadyShot function when you do not need to use the SteadyShot  
function. Do not use the SteadyShot function when shooting a stationary object with a  
tripod.  
(1) Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.  
(2)Turn the CONTROL dial to select STEADYSHOT, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select OFF, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
1,4  
2
3
MENU  
COMMANDER  
REC MODE  
AUDIO MODE  
MENU  
D
ZOOM  
STEADYSHOT  
BEEP  
TITLEERASE  
ON  
STEADYSHOT  
ON  
OFF  
[
]
MENU :END  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
MENU  
COMMANDER  
REC MODE  
AUDIO MODE  
D
ZOOM  
STEADYSHOT  
BEEP  
OFF  
STEADYSHOT  
ON  
OFF  
TITLEERASE  
[
]
[
]
MENU :END  
MENU :END  
To a ct iva t e t h e St e a d ySh o t fu n ct io n a g a in  
Select ON in step 3, then press the CONTROL dial.  
Notes on the SteadyShot function  
The SteadyShot function will not correct excessive camera-shake.  
When you switch the SteadyShot function on or off, the exposure may fluctuate.  
When the SteadyShot function is released, the indicator does not appear.  
If you use a tele conversion lens (not supplied) or a wide conversion lens (not supplied),  
the SteadyShot function may not work.  
49  
Wa t ch in g o n a TV scre e n  
Connect the camcorder to your VCR or TV to watch the playback picture on the TV screen.  
When monitoring the playback picture by connecting the camcorder to your TV, we  
recommend you to use house current for the power source.  
Co n n e ct in g d ire ct ly t o a VCR/TV w it h Au d io /Vid e o in p u t ja cks  
Open the jack cover and connect the camcorder to the inputs on the TV by using the  
supplied A/ V connecting cable. Set the TV/ VCR selector on the TV to VCR.  
Turn down the volume of the camcorder.  
To get higher quality pictures in DV format, connect the camcorder to your TV using the S  
video connecting cable (not supplied).  
If you are going to connect the camcorder using the S video connecting cable (not supplied)  
[a ], you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/ V connecting cable [b ].  
(not supplied)  
IN  
[a ]  
S VIDEO  
S VIDEO  
VIDEO  
[b ]  
AUDIO/ VIDEO  
AUDIO  
Ç: Signal flow  
If your VCR or TV is a monaural type  
Connect only the white plug for audio on both the camcorder and the VCR or the TV. If you  
connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red plug, the sound is  
R (right) signal.  
50  
Wa t ch in g o n a TV scre e n  
Usin g t h e AV co rd le ss IR re ce ive r  
LASER LINK  
Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (not supplied) having the LASER LINK  
mark to your TV or VCR, you can easily view the picture on your TV. For details, refer to  
the operating instruction of the AV cordless IR receiver.  
LASER LINK is a system which transmits and receives a picture and sound between video  
equipment having the  
Corporation.  
mark by using infrared rays. LASER LINK is a trademark of Sony  
To play back on a TV  
(1)Set the POWER switch on the camcorder to VTR.  
(2)After connecting your TV and AV cordless IR receiver, set the POWER switch on the AV  
cordless IR receiver to ON.  
(3)Turn the TV on and set the TV/ VCR selector on the TV to VCR.  
(4)Press LASER LINK. The lamp of the LASER LINK button is flashing.  
(5)Press · on the camcorder to start playback.  
(6)Adjust the angle and direction of both the camcorder and AV cordless IR receiver.  
To cancel the LASER LINK function  
Press LASER LINK.  
If you use a Sony TV  
You can turn on the TV automatically when you press LASER LINK or ·. To do so, set  
AUTO TV ON to ON in the menu system and turn the TVs main switch on , then do  
either of the following;  
– Point the LASER LINK emitter towards the TVs remote sensor and press LASER LINK.  
– Turn on the LASER LINK button and press ·.  
You can switch the video input of the TV automatically to the one which the AV cordless  
IR receiver is connected. To do so, set AUTO TV ON to ON and TV INPUT to the same  
video input (1, 2, 3) in the menu system. With some models, however, the picture and  
sound may be disconnected momentarily when the video input is switched.  
The above features may not work with some TV models.  
Notes on LASER LINK  
When LASER LINK is activated (the LASER LINK button is lit), the camcorder consumes  
power. Press and turn off the LASER LINK button when it is not needed.  
When the conversion lens (not supplied) is installed, the transmission of infrared rays may  
be blocked.  
51  
Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e w it h  
d a t e – d a t e se a rch  
You can search for the boundaries of recorded tape with date – Date Search function. To  
search the beginning of the specific date and play back from the point, there are two ways:  
Using cassette memory, you can select the date displayed on the LCD screen or in the  
viewfinder.  
Without using cassette memory.  
You can only operate with the Remote Commander.  
Se a rch in g fo r t h e d a t e b y u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry  
You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p.67).  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select ON, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the date search  
indicator appears.  
(6)Press = or + to select the date for playback.  
Playback starts from the beginning of the selected date automatically.  
POWER  
5
1
DATE SEARCH  
1
2
3
APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM  
JUL/ 2/98 5:00 PM  
OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
6
2,3,4  
DATE SEARCH  
1
2
3
APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM  
JUL/ 2/98 5:00 PM  
OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM  
MENU  
CM SEARCH ON  
OFF  
52  
Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e w it h d a t e – d a t e se a rch  
To stop searching  
Press p.  
Notes  
The interval of the boundaries between the dates needs more than two minutes. The  
camcorder may not search if the beginning of the recorded date is too close to the next  
one.  
The short cursor on the screen suggests the date selected in the previous time.  
If a tape has a blank portion in the beginning or between recorded portions, the Date  
Search function will not work correctly.  
53  
Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e w it h d a t e – d a t e se a rch  
Se a rch in g fo r t h e d a t e w it h o u t u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry  
You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not.  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select OFF, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the date search  
indicator appears.  
(6)When the current position is [b ], press = to search towards [a ] or press + to search  
towards [c]. Each time you press = or +, the camcorder searches for the previous  
or next date.  
Playback starts automatically when date changed.  
JUL.4.1998  
JUL.5.1998  
DEC.31.1998  
[b ]  
[c]  
[a ]  
POWER  
1
5
6
DATE SEARCH  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
2,3,4  
MENU  
CM SEARCH ON  
OFF  
To stop searching  
Press p.  
54  
Se a rch in g t h e b o u n d a rie s o f re co rd e d t a p e w it h  
t it le – t it le se a rch  
You can search for the boundaries of recorded tape with title – Title Search function. If you  
use a tape with cassette memory, you can select the title displayed on the LCD screen or in  
the viewfinder.  
You can only operate with the Remote Commander.  
Se a rch in g fo r t h e t it le b y u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry  
You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p.67).  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select ON, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the title search  
indicator appears.  
(6)Press = or + to select the title for playback.  
Playback starts from the scene of the selected title automatically.  
POWER  
5
6
1
TITLE SEARCH  
1
2
3
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
WEDDING  
HELLO!  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
2,3,4  
TITLE SEARCH  
1
2
3
HAPPY BIRTHDAY  
WEDDING  
HELLO!  
MENU  
CM SEARCH ON  
OFF  
To stop searching  
Press p.  
Notes  
You cannot superimpose or search a title, if you use a cassette tape without cassette  
memory.  
The camcorder may not search, if a tape has a blank portion in the beginning or between  
the recorded portions.  
55  
Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o – p h o t o se a rch /p h o t o sca n  
You can search for the recorded still picture – Photo Search function. There are two modes  
in Photo Search:  
Using cassette memory, you can select the recorded date which is displayed on the LCD  
screen or in the viewfinder.  
Without using cassette memory.  
You can also search for still pictures one after another and display each picture for five  
seconds automatically – Photo Scan function. Even if your tape has no cassette memory,  
you can use the Photo Scan function.  
You can only operate with the Remote Commander.  
Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o b y u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry – p h o t o se a rch  
You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p.67).  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)Press MENU to display the menu.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select ON, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo search  
indicator appears.  
(6)Press = or + to select the date for playback.  
Playback starts from the photo of the selected date automatically.  
POWER  
5
6
1
PHOTO SEARCH  
1
2
3
APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM  
JUL/ 2/98 5:00 PM  
OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
2,3,4  
PHOTO SEARCH  
1
2
3
APR/ 1/98 8:52 AM  
JUL/ 2/98 5:00 PM  
OCT/ 4/98 11:00 AM  
MENU  
CM SEARCH ON  
OFF  
56  
Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o – p h o t o se a rch /p h o t o sca n  
To stop searching  
Press p.  
Note  
When you play back a tape which has a blank portion in the beginning or between the  
recorded portions, the Photo Search function will not work correctly.  
Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o w it h o u t u sin g ca sse t t e m e m o ry – p h o t o  
se a rch  
You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not.  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen.  
(3)Turn the CONTROL dial to select CM SEARCH, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to select OFF, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the photo search  
indicator appears.  
(6)Press = or + to select the photo for playback. Each time you press = or +, the  
camcorder searches for the previous or next scene.  
Playback starts from the photo automatically.  
POWER  
1
5
6
PHOTO SEARCH  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
MENU  
2,3,4  
MENU  
CM SEARCH ON  
OFF  
To stop searching  
Press p.  
57  
Se a rch in g fo r a p h o t o – p h o t o se a rch /p h o t o sca n  
Sca n n in g p h o t o – p h o t o sca n  
You can use this function whether the tape has cassette memory or not.  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly until the photo scan  
indicator displayed on the LCD screen.  
(3)Press = or +.  
Each photos are displayed for about 5 seconds automatically.  
POWER  
2
1
PHOTO 00  
SCAN  
3
To stop searching  
Press p.  
58  
Re t u rn in g t o a p re -re g ist e re d p o sit io n  
Using the Remote Commander, you can easily go back to the desired point on a tape after  
playback.  
(1)During playback, press ZERO SET MEMORY at the point you later want to locate. The  
counter shows “0:00:00” and “ZERO SET MEMORY” appears on the LCD screen or in the  
viewfinder.  
(2)Press p when you want to stop playback.  
(3)Press 0 to rewind or press ) to fast-forward the tape to the counters zero point. The  
tape stops automatically when the counter reaches approximately zero. “ZERO SET  
MEMORY” disappears and the time code appears.  
(4)Press ·.  
1
2
3
0:00:00  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
0:00:00  
4
Note on the tape counter  
There may be a discrepancy of several seconds from the time code.  
Notes on ZERO SET MEMORY  
When you press ZERO SET MEMORY, the counters zero point is memorized. Press  
ZERO SET MEMORY again before step 3 to cancel the memory .  
ZERO SET MEMORY may not function when there is a blank portion between pictures on  
a tape.  
ZERO SET MEMORY functions in recording standby mode.  
59  
Disp la yin g re co rd in g d a t a – d a t a co d e  
fu n ct io n  
You can display recording data (date/ time or various settings when recorded) on the LCD  
screen or in the viewfinder during playback (Data Code). The Data Code is also displayed  
on the TV.  
Press DATA CODE during playback.  
DATA CODE  
MANUAL  
JUL 4 1998  
10:13:02 AM  
1 000 0 AWB  
F 1.  
6
18  
dB  
To se le ct t h e it e m s t o b e d isp la ye d  
Set DATA CODE in the menu system, and select the following items:  
When DATE/ CAM is selected: date nvarious settings (SteadyShot, PROGRAM AE, shutter  
speed, white balance, aperture value, gain) nno indicator.  
When DATE is selected: date nno indicator.  
When you record a picture w ith adjusting the exposure to the darkest manually  
“CLOSE” appears at the position of the iris indicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
When bars (-- -- --) appear  
A blank portion of the tape is being played back.  
The tape was recorded by a camcorder without having date and time set.  
The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise.  
60  
Ed it in g o n t o a n o t h e r t a p e  
You can create your own video program by editing with any other DV,  
mini DV,  
h 8 m m , HH i8, jVH S, kS-VH S, VH SC, K  
S-VH SC or lBetam ax VCR  
that has audio/ video inputs. You can edit with little deterioration of picture and sound  
quality when using the DV connecting cable.  
Be fo re e d it in g  
Connect the camcorder to the VCR using the VMC-2DV DV connecting cable (not supplied)  
or the supplied A/ V connecting cable.  
Usin g t h e DV co n n e ct in g ca b le  
Simply connect the VMC-2DV DV connecting cable (not supplied) to DV IN/ OUT and to  
DV IN/ OUT of the DV products. With digital-to-digital connection, video and audio signals  
are transmitted in digital form for high-quality editing.  
(not supplied)  
DV IN/ OUT  
DV IN/ OUT  
: Signal flow  
ç
Notes on editing w hen using the DV connecting cable  
You can connect one VCR only.  
You can record picture, sound and system data at the same time on the DV products by  
using the DV connecting cable only.  
You cannot edit the titles, display indicator or the contents of cassette memory.  
If you record playback pause picture with the DV IN/ OUT jack, the recorded picture  
becomes rough. And when you playback the picture using the other video equipment, the  
picture may jitter.  
You can also use the camcorder as a recorder with this connection. In this case “DV IN”  
indicator appears on the screen.  
When you use the camcorder as a recorder, the color balance may be incorrect on the  
monitor screen. But this is not recorded on the tape.  
61  
Ed it in g o n t o a n o t h e r t a p e  
Usin g t h e A/V co n n e ct in g ca b le [a ] o r S vid e o co n n e ct in g ca b le (n o t  
su p p lie d ) [b ]  
Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE.  
TV  
(not supplied)  
S VIDEO IN  
S VIDEO  
[b ]  
[a ]  
AUDIO VIDEO  
VIDEO IN  
VCR  
AUDIO IN  
:
Signal flow  
Notes on editing w hen using the A/V connecting cable  
Press DATA CODE , SEARCH MODE, or DISPLAY to turn off the display indicators.  
Otherwise, the indicators will be recorded on the tape.  
If your TV or VCR is a monaural type, connect the yellow plug of the A/ V connecting  
cable for video to the TV or VCR. Connect only the white or red plug for audio to the TV  
or VCR. If you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red  
plug, the sound is R (right) signal.  
You can edit precisely by connecting a LANC cable to this camcorder and other video  
equipment having fine synchro-editing function, using this camcorder as a player.  
St a rt in g e d it in g  
(1)Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert your  
recorded tape into the camcorder.  
(2)Play back the recorded tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where you want  
to start editing, then press P to set the camcorder in playback pause mode.  
(3)On the VCR, locate the recording start point and set the VCR in recording pause mode.  
(4) Press P on the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start editing.  
To e d it m o re sce n e s  
Repeat steps 2 to 4.  
To st o p e d it in g  
Press π on both the camcorder and the VCR.  
62  
Re co rd in g fro m a VCR o r TV  
You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV program from a TV that has audio/ video  
outputs. Connect the camcorder to the VCR or TV.  
(1)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR and set  
DISPLAY to LCD in the menu system.  
(2)Press REC r and the button on the right together at the point where you want to start  
recording.  
In recording and the recording pause mode, S VIDEO and AUDIO/ VIDEO jacks  
automatically work as input jacks.  
If your VCR or TV has an S video jack, connect using the S video cable (not supplied) [a ] to  
obtain a high quality picture.  
POWER  
REC  
1
2
(not supplied)  
S VIDEO  
OUT  
OUT  
S VIDEO  
S VIDEO  
[a ]  
VIDEO  
AUDIO  
AUDIO/ VIDEO  
[b ]  
AUDIO/ VIDEO OUT  
If your TV or VCR is a monaural type, connect the yellow plug of the A/ V connecting cable  
for video to the TV or VCR. Connect only the white or red plug for audio to the TV or VCR.  
If you connect the white plug, the sound is L (left) signal. If you connect the red plug, the  
sound is R (right) signal.  
If you are going to connect the camcorder using the S video cable (not supplied) [a ] , you do  
not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/ V connecting cable [b ] .  
Note on using the S video connecting cable  
If the S video plug is not provided on your TV or VCR, do not connect the S video cable (not  
supplied) to the camcorder. Pictures will not appear.  
Note on the recording sound  
The dual sound cannot be recorded in this camcorder.  
To st o p re co rd in g  
Press π.  
63  
Re p la cin g re co rd in g o n a t a p e – in se rt e d it in g  
You can insert a new scene from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by specifying  
starting and ending points. After inserting editing, the previous picture and sound will be  
erased.  
Connection is the same as on page 61 or 63. In recording and recording pause mode, DV  
IN/ OUT jack automatically works as input jack.  
(1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR.  
(2) On the VCR, locate the start point to be inserted and set it to playback pause mode.  
(3) On the camcorder, press · to set it to playback mode, and then locate the point  
where the insert should end by pressing 0 or ). Then press P to set it to  
playback pause mode.  
(4) Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander. The ZERO SET MEMORY  
indicator flashes and the end point of the insert is stored in memory.  
(5) On the camcorder, locate the point where the insert should begin by pressing 0,  
then press r REC to set it to recording pause mode.  
(6) Press P on the camcorder and the VCR simultaneously to start insert editing.  
The insert editing stops automatically near the counter's zero point. Press π to set the  
camcorder to stop mode.  
To ch a n g e t h e e n d p o in t  
Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander so that the ZERO SET MEMORY  
indicator disappears and begin from step 3.  
Note on the inserted picture  
The picture may be distorted at the end of the inserted portion when it is played back.  
64  
Au d io d u b b in g  
You can record an audio sound to add to the original sound on a tape by connecting audio  
equipment or a microphone. If you connect the audio equipment, you can add a sound on  
your recorded tape by specifying starting and ending points. The original sound will not be  
erased.  
Du b b in g w it h t h e AUDIO/VIDEO ja ck  
Audio equipment  
LINE OUT  
L
R
AUDIO R  
AUDIO L  
AUDIO/  
VIDEO  
A/ V connecting cable  
Do not connect the  
video (yellow)  
plug.  
: Signal flow  
Ç
Note  
The picture is not output from the AUDIO/ VIDEO jack. Check the recorded picture in the  
viewfinder or on the LCD screen, as well as check the recorded sound by using a speaker or  
headphones.  
Co n n e ct in g w it h t h e MIC ja ck  
Audio equipment  
LINE OUT  
L
R
MIC  
(PLUG IN  
POWER)  
AUDIO R  
AUDIO L  
RK-G128 connecting cable (not supplied)  
: Signal flow  
Ç
microphone (not supplied)  
Note  
You can check the recorded picture and sound connecting the AUDIO/ VIDEO jack to a TV.  
The recorded sound is not output from a speaker. Check the sound by using TV or  
headphones.  
65  
Au d io d u b b in g  
Notes on audio dubbing  
A new sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the 16-bit mode (32 kHz,  
44.1 kHz or 48 kHz).  
When an external microphone is not connected, the recording will be made through the  
built-in microphone of the camcorder.  
A new sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the LP mode.  
If you add a new sound on a tape recorded with another camcorder (including DCR-  
TRV9), the sound quality may become worse.  
When you record a playback pause picture with the DV jack, you cannot add audio to that  
portion of the tape.  
You cannot add audio with the DV jack.  
Ad d in g a n a u d io so u n d o n a re co rd e d t a p e  
(1)Insert your recorded tape into the camcorder.  
(2)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR.  
(3)On the camcorder, locate the point where the recording should begin by pressing 0 or  
). Then press P to set it to playback pause mode.  
(4)Press AUDIO DUB on the Remote Commander .  
(5)Press P on the Remote Commander and at the same time start playing back the audio  
you want to record. The new sound will be recorded in stereo 2. The recorded sound in  
stereo 1 is not heard.  
(6)Press p on the Remote Commander at the point where you want to stop recording.  
To p la y b a ck t h e n e w re co rd e d so u n d  
Adjust the balance between the original sound (ST1) and the new sound (ST2) by selecting  
AUDIO MIX in menu system.  
MENU  
AUDIO MIX  
ST1  
ST2  
[
]
MENU :END  
Five minutes after when you disconnect the power source or remove the battery pack, the  
settings of AUDIO MIX return to the original sound (ST1) only. The factory setting is  
original sound only.  
To end audio more precisely  
First, press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the point where you want to  
stop recording. Then start recording from step 2, and the recording stops automatically near  
the counters zero point.  
66  
Ad d it io n a l in fo rm a t io n  
Usa b le ca sse t t e s a n d p la yb a ck m o d e s  
Se le ct in g ca sse t t e t yp e s  
You can use the  
mini DV cassette only. You cannot use any other  
DV, h 8 mm,  
HHi8, jVHS, kS-VHS, VHSC, KS-VHSC or l Betamax cassette.  
We recommend mini DV cassette w ith cassette memory.  
There are two types of mini DV cassettes: with cassette memory and without cassette  
memory. We recommend you to use the tape with cassette memory. The IC memory is  
mounted on this type of mini DV cassette. This camcorder can read and write data such as  
dates of recording or titles, etc. to this memory. The functions using the cassette memory  
require successive signals recorded on the tape. If the tape has a blank portion in the  
beginning or between the recorded portions, a title may not be displayed properly or the  
search functions may not work properly. Not to make any blank portion on the tape,  
operate the followings.  
Press END SEARCH to go to the end of the recorded portion before you begin the next  
recording if you operate the followings:  
– you have ejected the cassette while recording.  
– you have played back the tape in the VTR mode.  
– you have used the Edit Search function.  
If there is a blank portion or discontinuous signal on your tape, re-record from the beginning  
to the end of the tape concerning above.  
* The same result may occur when you record using a digital video camera recorder  
without a cassette memory function on a tape recorded by one with the cassette memory  
function.  
Tapes with cassette memory have  
(Cassette Memory) mark. Sony recommends that you  
use a tape having  
mark to enjoy this camcorder fully.  
Wh e n yo u p la y b a ck  
Co p yrig h t sig n a l  
When playing back  
Using any other video camera recorder, you cannot record on a tape that has recorded a  
copyright control signals for copyright protection of software which is played back in this  
camcorder.  
When recording  
Using this camcorder, you cannot record software that has recorded a copyright control  
signals for copyright protection of software. “COPY INHIBIT” appears on the LCD screen, in  
the viewfinder or on the TV screen if you try to record such software.  
Au d io m o d e  
12-bit mode: The original sound can be recorded in stereo 1, and the new sound in stereo 2 in  
32 kHz. The balance between stereo 1 and stereo 2 can be adjusted by selecting AUDIO MIX  
in the menu system during playback. Both sounds can be played back.  
16-bit mode: A new sound cannot be recorded but the original sound can be recorded in  
high quality. Moreover, it can also play back sound recorded in 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz.  
When playing back a tape recorded in the 16-bit mode, 16BIT indicator appears on the LCD  
screen or in the viewfinder.  
67  
Usa b le ca sse t t e s a n d p la yb a ck m o d e s  
No t e s o n t h e m in i DV ca sse t t e  
To p re ve n t a ccid e n t a l e ra su re  
Slide out the protect tab on the cassette so that the red portion is visible. [a ]  
Wh e n a ffixin g a la b e l o n t h e m in i DV ca sse t t e  
Be sure to affix a label on only the location as illustrated below so as not to cause  
malfunction of the camcorder. [b ]  
Aft e r u sin g t h e m in i DV ca sse t t e  
Rewind the tape to the beginning, put the cassette in its case, and store it in an upright  
position.  
[c]  
[a ]  
[b ]  
To record  
Slide out to prevent accidental erasure.  
Note on gold-plated connector  
If the gold-plated connector of mini DV cassettes is dirty or dusty, you may not operate the  
function using cassette memory. Clean up the gold-plated connector with cotton-wool swab,  
about every 10 times ejection of a cassettes. [c]  
Ch a rg in g t h e va n a d iu m -lit h iu m b a t t e ry in t h e  
ca m co rd e r  
Your camcorder is supplied with a vanadium-lithium battery installed so as to retain the  
date and time, etc., regardless of the setting of the POWER switch. The vanadium-lithium  
battery is always charged as long as you are using the camcorder. The battery, however, will  
get discharged gradually if you do not use the camcorder. It will be completely discharged  
in about six months if you do not use the camcorder at all. Even if the vanadium-lithium  
battery is not charged, it will not affect the camcorder operation. To retain the date and time,  
etc., charge the battery if the battery is discharged. The following are charging methods:  
Connect the camcorder to house current using the supplied AC power adaptor, and leave  
the camcorder with the POWER switch turned off for more than 24 hours.  
Or install the fully charged battery pack in the camcorder, and leave the camcorder with  
the POWER switch turned off for more than 24 hours.  
68  
Re se t t in g t h e d a t e a n d t im e  
The date and time are set at the factory. Set the time according to the local time in your  
country. If you do not use the camcorder for about six months, the date and time settings  
may be released (bars may appear) because the vanadium-lithium battery installed in the  
camcorder will have been discharged. In this case, first charge the vanadium-lithium  
battery, then reset the date and time.  
(1)While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA.  
(2)Press MENU to display the menu on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
(3)Select CLOCK SET, then press the CONTROL dial.  
(4)Turn the CONTROL dial to adjust the year, and then press the CONTROL dial.  
(5)Set the month, day, hour and minutes by turning and pressing the CONTROL dial.  
(6)Press MENU to erase the menu display.  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
POWER  
1
3
MENU  
MENU  
REC LAMP  
N.S. LIGHT  
DISPLAY  
1998 JAN  
1
AUTO TV ON  
TV INPUT  
CLOCK SET  
DEMO MODE  
MENU  
2,6  
4
JAN  
12:00 : 00 AM  
1
1998  
CLOCK SET  
[MENU]:END  
12 00 AM  
[MENU]:END  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
5
1998 JUL  
1
1998 JUL  
4
1998 JUL  
4
1998 JUL  
4
1998 JAN  
1
1998 JAN  
1
12 00 AM  
12 00 AM  
5
00 AM  
5
30 AM  
12 00 AM  
12 00 AM  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
CONTROL  
To co rre ct t h e d a t e a n d t im e se t t in g  
Repeat steps 2 to 5.  
The year indicators changes as follow s:  
1998  
1999  
2029  
..... 2001 .....  
Note on the time indicator  
The internal clock of this camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle.  
12:00 AM stands for midnight.  
12:00 PM stands for noon.  
69  
Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
This section shows you how you can get the most out of your battery pack.  
Pre p a rin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
Alw a ys ca rry a d d it io n a l b a t t e rie s  
Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have  
planned.  
Ba t t e ry life is sh o rt e r in a co ld e n viro n m e n t  
Battery efficiency is decreased, and the battery will be used up more quickly, if you are  
recording in a cold environment.  
To sa ve b a t t e ry p o w e r  
Do not leave the camcorder in Standby mode when not recording to save the battery power.  
A smooth transition between scenes can be made even if recording is stopped and started  
again. While you are positioning the subject, selecting an angle, or looking at the LCD  
screen or through the viewfinder, the lens moves automatically and the battery is used. The  
battery is also used when a tape is inserted or removed.  
Wh e n t o re p la ce t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
While you are using your camcorder, the remaining battery indicator on the LCD screen or  
in the viewfinder decreases gradually as battery power is used up.  
The remaining time in minutes also appears.  
When the remaining battery indicator reaches the lowest point, the iindicator appears and  
starts flashing on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
When the iindicator on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder changes from slow flashing to  
rapid flashing while you are recording, set the POWER switch to OFF on the camcorder and  
replace the battery pack. Leave the tape in the camcorder to obtain a smooth transition  
between scenes after the battery pack has been replaced.  
70  
Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
No t e s o n t h e re ch a rg e a b le b a t t e ry p a ck  
Ca u t io n  
Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 60°C (140°F), such as in a car parked in  
the sun or under direct sunlight.  
Th e b a t t e ry p a ck h e a t s u p  
During charging or recording, the battery pack heats up. This is caused by energy that has  
been generated and a chemical change that has occurred inside the battery pack. This is not  
cause for concern, and is normal.  
Ba t t e ry p a ck ca re  
Remove the battery pack from the camcorder after using it, and keep it in a cool place.  
When the battery pack is installed to the camcorder, a small amount of current flows to  
the camcorder even if the POWER switch is set to OFF. This shortens battery life.  
The battery pack is always discharging even when it is not in use after charging.  
Therefore, you should charge the battery pack right before using the camcorder.  
Th e life o f t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
If the battery indicator flashes rapidly just after turning on the camcorder with a fully  
charged battery pack, the battery pack should be replaced with a new fully charged one.  
Ch a rg in g t e m p e ra t u re  
You should charge batteries at temperatures from 10°C to 30°C (from 50°F to 86°F). Lower  
temperatures require a longer charging time.  
71  
Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
No t e s o n t h e “ In fo LITHIUM Ba t t e ry Pa ck  
Wh a t is t h e “ In fo LITHIUM b a t t e ry p a ck  
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium battery pack which can exchange data with  
compatible video equipment about its battery consumption.  
Sony recommends that you use the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with video equipment  
having the  
mark.  
When you use this battery pack with video equipment having the  
video equipment will indicate the remaining battery time in minutes.*  
mark, the  
* The indication may not be accurate depending on the condition and environment which  
the equipment is used under.  
Ho w t h e b a t t e ry co n su m p t io n is d isp la ye d  
The power consumption of the camcorder changes depending on its use, such as whether  
the LCD is used or not, how the autofocusing is working on or not.  
While checking the condition of the camcorder, the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack measures  
the battery consumption and calculates the remaining battery power. If the condition  
changes drastically, the remaining battery indication may suddenly decrease or increase by  
more than 2 minutes.  
Even if 5 to 10 minutes is indicated as the battery remaining time on the LCD or viewfinder,  
the iindicator may also flash under some conditions.  
To o b t a in m o re a ccu ra t e re m a in in g b a t t e ry in d ica t io n  
Set the camcorder to recording standby mode and point towards a stationary object. Do not  
move the camcorder for 30 seconds or more.  
If the indication seems incorrect, use up the battery and then recharge it fully (Full  
charge1)). Note that if you have used the battery in a hot or cold environment for long  
time, or you have repeated charging many times, the battery may not be able to show the  
correct time even after being fully charged.  
After you have used the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack with an equipment not having the  
mark, make sure that you use up the battery on the equipment having the  
mark and then recharge fully.  
Wh y t h e re m a in in g b a t t e ry in d ica t io n d o e s n o t m a t ch t h e co n t in u o u s  
re co rd in g t im e in t h e o p e ra t in g in st ru ct io n  
The recording time is affected by the environmental temperature and conditions. The  
recording time becomes very short in a cold environment. The continuous recording time in  
the operating instruction is measured under the condition of using a fully charged (or  
normal charged2)) battery pack in 25 °C (77 °F). As the environmental temperature and  
condition are different when you actually use the camcorder, the remaining battery time is  
not same as the continuous recording time in the operating instruction.  
1)  
Full charge: Charging for about 1 hour after the charge lamp of the AC power adaptor  
goes off.  
2)  
Normal charge: Charging just until the charge lamp of the AC power adaptor goes off.  
72  
Tip s fo r u sin g t h e b a t t e ry p a ck  
No t e s o n ch a rg in g  
A b ra n d -n e w b a t t e ry p a ck  
A brand-new battery pack is not charged. Before using the battery pack, charge it  
completely.  
Re ch a rg e t h e b a t t e ry p a ck w h e n e ve r yo u like  
You do not have to discharge it before recharging. If you charged the battery pack fully but  
you did not use it for a long time, it becomes discharged. Then recharge the battery pack  
before use.  
No t e s o n t h e t e rm in a ls  
If t h e t e rm in a ls (m e t a l p a rt s o n t h e b a ck) a re n o t cle a n , t h e b a t t e ry ch a rg e  
d u ra t io n w ill b e sh o rt e n e d .  
When the terminals are not clean or when the battery pack has not been used for a long time,  
repeatedly install and remove the battery pack a few times. This improves the contact  
condition. Also, wipe the +, – and C terminals with a soft cloth or paper.  
Be su re t o o b se rve t h e fo llo w in g  
Keep the battery pack away from fire.  
Keep the battery pack dry.  
Do not open nor try to disassemble the battery pack.  
Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.  
73  
Ma in t e n a n ce in fo rm a t io n a n d p re ca u t io n s  
Mo ist u re co n d e n sa t io n  
If the camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may  
condense inside the camcorder, on the surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this condition,  
the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or the camcorder may not operate  
correctly. To prevent possible damage under these circumstances, the camcorder is  
furnished with moisture sensors. Take the following precautions.  
In sid e t h e ca m co rd e r  
If there is moisture inside the camcorder, the beep sounds and the {indicator flashes. If this  
happens, none of the function except cassette ejection will work. Open the cassette  
compartment, turn off the camcorder, and leave it about 1 hour. When 6indicator flashes at  
the same time, the cassette is inserted in the camcorder. Eject the cassette, turn off the  
camcorder, and leave also the cassette about 1 hour.  
On t h e le n s  
If moisture condenses on the lens, no indicator appears, but the picture becomes dim. Turn  
off the power and do not use the camcorder for about 1 hour.  
Ho w t o p re ve n t m o ist u re co n d e n sa t io n  
When bringing the camcorder from a cold place to a warm place, put the camcorder in a  
plastic bag and allow it to adapt to room conditions over a period of time.  
(1)Be sure to tightly seal the plastic bag containing the camcorder.  
(2)Remove the bag when the air temperature inside it has reached the temperature  
surrounding it (after about 1 hour).  
Vid e o h e a d cle a n in g  
To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads.  
The video heads may be dirty when:  
mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture  
playback pictures do not move  
playback pictures are hardly visible  
playback pictures do not appear  
the vindicator and “ Ò CLEANING CASSETTE” message appear one after another or  
the vindicator flashes on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder  
[a ]  
[b ]  
or  
If [a ] or [b ] happens, clean the video heads with the Sony DVM12CL cleaning cassette (not  
supplied). Check the picture and if the above problem persists, repeat the cleaning. (Do not  
repeat cleaning more than 5 times in one session.)  
74  
Ma in t e n a n ce in fo rm a t io n a n d p re ca u t io n s  
Note  
If the DVM12CL cleaning cassette (not supplied) is not available in your area, consult your  
nearest Sony dealer.  
Pre ca u t io n s  
Ca m co rd e r o p e ra t io n  
Operate the camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor).  
Should any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug the camcorder and have it  
checked by Sony dealer before operating it any further.  
Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.  
Keep the POWER switch set to OFF when not using the camcorder.  
Do not wrap up the camcorder and operate it since heat may build up internally.  
Keep the camcorder away from strong magnetic fields or mechanical vibration.  
On h a n d lin g t a p e s  
Do not insert anything in the small holes on the cassette.  
Do not open the tape protect cover or touch the tape.  
Avoid touching or damaging the terminals. To remove dust, clean the terminals with a  
soft cloth.  
Ca m co rd e r ca re  
When the camcorder is not to be used for a long time, disconnect the power source and  
remove the tape. Periodically turn on the power, operate the camera and player sections  
and play back a tape for about 3 minutes.  
Clean the lens with a soft brush to remove dust. If there are fingerprints on the lens,  
remove them with a soft cloth.  
Clean the camcorder body with a dry soft cloth, or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a  
mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of solvent which may damage the finish.  
Do not let sand get into the camcorder. When you use the camcorder on a sandy beach or  
in a dusty place, protect it from the sand or dust. Sand or dust may cause the unit to  
malfunction, and sometimes this malfunction cannot be repaired.  
75  
Ma in t e n a n ce in fo rm a t io n a n d p re ca u t io n s  
AC p o w e r a d a p t o r  
Charging  
• Use only an “InfoLITHIUM” type battery pack.  
• Place the battery pack on a flat surface without vibration during charging.  
• The battery pack will get hot during charging. This is normal.  
Others  
• Unplug the unit from the wall outlet when not in use for a long time. To disconnect the  
power cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself.  
• Do not operate the unit with a damaged cord or if the unit has been dropped or damaged.  
• Do not bend the AC power cord forcibly, or put a heavy object on it. This will damage the  
cord and may cause a fire or an electrical shock.  
• Be sure that nothing metallic comes into contact with the metal parts of the connecting  
plate. If this happens, a short may occur and the unit may be damaged.  
• Always keep the metal contacts clean.  
• Do not disassemble the unit.  
• Do not apply mechanical shock or drop the unit.  
• While the unit is in use, particularly during charging, keep it away from AM receivers and  
video equipment because it will disturb AM reception and video operation.  
• The unit becomes warm while in use. This is normal.  
• Do not place the unit in locations that are:  
Extremely hot or cold, Dusty or dirty, Very humid, Vibrating  
No t e o n d ry b a t t e rie s  
To avoid possible damage from battery leakage or corrosion, observe the following.  
• Be sure to insert the batteries in the correct direction.  
• Dry batteries are not rechargeable.  
• Do not use a combination of new and old batteries.  
• Do not use different types of batteries.  
• The batteries slowly discharge while not in use.  
• Do not use a battery that is leaking.  
If battery leakage occurred  
• Wipe off the liquid in the battery case carefully before replacing the batteries.  
• If you touch the liquid, wash it off with water.  
• If the liquid get into your eyes, wash your eyes with a lot of water and then consult a  
doctor.  
If any difficulty should arise, unplug the unit and contact your nearest Sony dealer.  
76  
Usin g yo u r ca m co rd e r a b ro a d  
Each country or area has its own electric and TV color systems. Before using your  
camcorder abroad, check the following points.  
Po w e r so u rce s  
You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the supplied AC power adaptor  
within 110 V to 240 V AC, 50/ 60 Hz.  
Diffe re n ce in co lo r syst e m s  
This camcorder is a NTSC system-based camcorder. If you want to view the playback  
picture on a TV, it must be a NTSC system-based TV.  
Check the following list.  
NTSC system  
Bahama Islands, Bolivia, Canada, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica,  
Japan, Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam, Taiwan, the Philippines, the U.S.A., Venezuela, etc.  
PAL system  
Australia, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, China, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Great  
Britain, Holland, Hong Kong, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal,  
Singapore, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, etc.  
PAL-M system  
Brazil  
PAL-N system  
Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay  
SECAM system  
Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Monaco, Poland, Russia, Ukraine, etc.  
77  
Tro u b le ch e ck  
If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the  
problem. Should the difficulty persist, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony  
dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.  
Ca m co rd e r  
Po w e r  
Symptom  
Cause and/orcorrective actions  
The power is not on.  
The battery pack is not installed.  
m Install the battery pack. (p. 7)  
The battery is dead.  
m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 7)  
The AC power adaptor is not connected to a wall outlet.  
m Connect the AC power adaptor to a wall outlet. (p. 23)  
The power goes off.  
While being operated in CAMERA mode, the camcorder has  
been in Standby mode for more than 5 minutes.  
m Set the POWER switch to OFF, then to CAMERA. (p. 11)  
The battery is dead.  
m Use a charged battery pack. (p. 7)  
The battery pack is quickly discharged.  
The ambient temperature is too low. (p. 70)  
The battery pack has not been charged fully.  
m Charge the battery pack again. (p. 7)  
The battery pack is completely dead, and cannot be recharged.  
m Use another battery pack. (p. 23)  
Op e ra t io n  
Symptom  
Cause and/orcorrective actions  
START/ STOP does not operate.  
The tape is stuck to the drum.  
m Eject the cassette. (p. 10)  
The tape has run out.  
m Rewind the tape or use a new one. (p. 20)  
The POWER switch is set to VTR.  
m Set it to CAMERA. (p. 11)  
The tab on the cassette is out (red).  
m Use a new tape or slide the tab. (p. 10)  
The cassette cannot be removed from  
the holder.  
The battery is dead.  
m Use a charged battery pack or the AC power adaptor.  
(p. 7, 23)  
{ and 6 indicators flash and no function  
except for cassette ejection works.  
Moisture condensation has occurred.  
m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least 1  
hour. (p. 74)  
“CLOCK SET” appears when the  
camcorder is turned on.  
Reset the date and time. (p. 69)  
The End Search function does not  
activate.  
You did not make a new recording after reinserting the  
cassette.  
The tape without cassette memory ejected after recording.  
78  
Tro u b le ch e ck  
Op e ra t io n  
Symptom  
Cause and/orcorrective actions  
The tape does not move when a tape  
transport button is pressed.  
The POWER switch is set to CAMERA or OFF.  
Set it to VTR. (p. 20)  
The tape has run out.  
Rewind the tape or use a new one. (p. 20)  
m
m
No sound or only a low sound is heard  
when playing back a tape.  
The volume is turned to the minimum.  
Open the LCD panel and press VOL +. (p. 20)  
AUDIO MIX is set to ST2 side in the menu system.  
Adjust AUDIO MIX in the menu system (p. 66).  
m
m
The new sound added to the recorded  
tape is not heard.  
AUDIO MIX is set to ST1 side in the menu system.  
Adjust AUDIO MIX in the menu system (p. 66).  
m
The SteadyShot function does not activate.  
STEADYSHOT is set to OFF in the menu system.  
Set it to ON. (p. 49)  
m
Recording stops in a few seconds.  
The START/ STOP MODE switch is set to 5SEC or  
ANTI GROUND SHOOTING.  
m
Set it to  
Focus is set to the manual mode.  
Set it to autofocus. (p. 37)  
Shooting conditions are not suitable for autofocus.  
Set focus to manual mode to focus manually. (p. 37)  
. (p. 14)  
The autofocus function does not activate.  
The fader function does not work.  
m
m
The START/ STOP MODE switch is set to 5SEC or  
ANTI GROUND SHOOTING.  
m
Set it to  
. (p. 14)  
A title is displayed on the LCD screen or in the  
viewfinder.  
m
Clear the title. (p. 29)  
TITLE DSPL is set to OFF in the menu system.  
Set it to ON in the menu system. (p. 24)  
The tape has no cassette memory.  
Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 41)  
The cassette memory is full.  
Erase another title. (p. 43)  
The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure.  
The title is not displayed.  
The title is not recorded.  
m
m
m
m
Slide the protect tab so that red portion is not visible.  
(p. 42)  
Nothing is recorded in that position on the tape.  
Superimpose the title to the recorded position. (p. 42)  
m
The cassette label is not recorded.  
The tape has no cassette memory.  
Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 46)  
The cassette memory is full.  
Erase some titles. (p. 43)  
The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure.  
m
m
m
Slide the protect tab so that red portion is not visible.  
(p. 48)  
Displaying the recorded date, date search  
function does not work.  
• The tape has no cassette memory.  
Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 52)  
• CM SEARCH is set to OFF in the menu system.  
Set it to ON. (p. 52)  
m
m
Continued to the next page  
79  
Tro u b le ch e ck  
Op e ra t io n  
Symptom  
Cause and/orcorrective actions  
The title search function does not work.  
• The tape has no cassette memory.  
m Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 55)  
• CM SEARCH is set to OFF in the menu system.  
m Set it to ON. (p. 55)  
• There is no title in the tape.  
m Superimpose the titles. (p. 41)  
indicator does not appear when using  
a tape with cassette memory.  
The gold-plated connector of the tape is dirty or dusty.  
m Clean the gold-plated connector. (p. 68)  
The Date Search, Title Search, or End  
Search does not work correctly.  
The tape has a blank portion in the beginning or between  
the recorded portion. (p. 67)  
Pict u re  
Symptom  
Cause and/orcorrective actions  
The image on the viewfinder screen is not  
clear.  
The viewfinder lens is not adjusted.  
m Adjust the viewfinder lens. (p. 12)  
A vertical band appears when a subject  
such as lights or a candle flame is shot  
against a dark background.  
The contrast between the subject and background is too  
high. The camcorder is not malfunctioning.  
m Change locations.  
The picture is “noisy” or does not appear.  
The video heads may be dirty.  
m Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL (not  
supplied) cleaning cassette. (p. 74)  
v indicator flashes on the LCD screen or  
in the viewfinder.  
The video heads may be dirty.  
m Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL (not  
supplied) cleaning cassette. (p. 74)  
The picture is too bright or too dark.  
LCD BRIGHT is not adjusted properly.  
m Press + or – to obtain the brightness you want. (p. 15,  
20)  
A vertical band appears when shooting a  
very bright subject.  
The camcorder is not malfunctioning.  
The picture does not appear on the LCD  
screen or in the viewfinder.  
Incorporated fluorescent tube is worn out.  
m Please contact your nearest Sony dealer.  
The picture does not appear in the viewfinder.  
The LCD panel is open.  
m Close the LCD panel.  
The picture in the viewfinder does not  
disappear.  
Sunlight or the incandescent lamp may prevent the  
viewfinder sensor from working correctly. This is not a  
malfunction.  
An unknown picture is displayed in the  
viewfinder or on the LCD screen.  
If 10 minutes elapse after you set the POWER switch to  
CAMERA without inserting a cassette, the camcorder  
automatically starts the demonstration or DEMO MODE  
is set to STBY/ ON in the menu system.  
m Insert the cassette and the demonstration stops. You  
can deactivate the demonstration. (p. 92)  
A display such as “C:ππ:ππ” appears  
on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
The self-diagnosis display function has activated.  
m Check the code and diagnosis the problem by  
referring to the code chart. (p. 83)  
The picture is recorded in incorrect/  
unnatural color.  
NIGHTSHOT is set to ON.  
m Set it to OFF (p. 30)  
80  
Tro u b le ch e ck  
Ot h e rs  
Symptom  
Cause and/orcorrective actions  
While editing using the DV connecting  
cable, recording picture cannot be  
monitored.  
Remove the DV connecting cable, and connect it  
again.  
The camcorder becomes warm.  
If the power of the camcorder is on for a long time, it  
becomes warm, which is not malfunction.  
The supplied Remote Commander does  
not work.  
Something is blocking the infrared rays.  
m Remove the obstacle.  
The battery is not inserted with the correct polarity.  
m Insert the battery with the correct polarity. (p. 89)  
The batteries are dead.  
m Insert new ones. (p. 89)  
No function works though the power is  
on.  
Disconnect the connection plate on the battery pack or  
on the AC power adaptor, then reconnect it in about 1  
minute. Turn the power on. If the functions still do  
not work, open the LCD panel and press the RESET  
button below the MENU button using a sharp-pointed  
object. (If you press the RESET button, all the settings  
including the date and time return to the default.)  
(p. 87)  
AC p o w e r a d a p t o r  
Symptom  
Correctiveactions  
The VTR/ CAMERA or CHARGE lamp  
does not light.  
Disconnect the power cord. After about 1 minute,  
reconnect the power cord. (p. 7)  
The CHARGE lamp flashes.  
See the chart on the next page.  
Continued to the next page  
81  
Tro u b le ch e ck  
Wh e n t h e CHARGE la m p fla sh e s  
Check through the following chart.  
Remove the battery pack from the AC  
power adaptor. Then install the same  
battery pack again.  
When the CHARGE lamp flashes  
again  
When the CHARGE lamp does not  
flash again  
Install another battery pack.  
If the CHARGE lamp lights up and  
goes out after a while, there is no  
problem. *  
When the CHARGE lamp flashes  
again  
When the CHARGE lamp does not  
flash again  
The problem is with the AC power  
adaptor.  
If the CHARGE lamp lights up and  
goes out after a while, the problem is  
with the battery pack installed first.  
Please contact your nearest Sony dealer  
in connection with the product with the  
problem.  
* If you use a battery pack which you have just bought or which has been left unused for a long time, the CHARGE  
lamp may flash at the first charging. This does not indicate a problem. Repeat again to charge with same battery  
pack.  
82  
Se lf-d ia g n o sis fu n ct io n  
The camcorder has a self-diagnosis display.  
LCD screen/view finder  
This function displays the camcorders condition  
with five digits (a combination of a letter and  
figures) on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.  
If this occurs, check the following code chart. The  
five-digit display informs you of the camcorders  
current condition. The last two digits (indicated  
by ππ) will differ depending on the state of the  
camcorder.  
STBY  
C : 21: 00  
40min  
40min  
Self-diagnosis display  
• C:ππ:ππ  
You can service the camcorder  
yourself.  
• E:ππ:ππ  
Contact your Sony dealer or local  
authorized Sony facility.  
Cause and/or corrective actions  
Five-digit display  
Moisture condensation has occurred.  
m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least 1 hour. (p.  
74)  
C:21:ππ  
C:22:ππ  
The video heads are dirty.  
m Clean the heads using the Sony DVM12CL cleaning cassette (not  
supplied). (p. 74)  
A serviceable situation not malfunctioned above has occurred.  
C:31:ππ  
m Remove the cassette and insert it again, then operate the camcorder.  
(p. 10)  
C:32:ππ  
m Disconnect the power cord of the AC power adaptor or remove the  
battery pack. After reconnecting the power source, operate the  
camcorder.  
E:61:ππ  
A camcorder malfunction which you cannot service has occurred.  
E:62:ππ  
m Contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility  
and inform them of the five digits. (example: E:61:10)  
If you are unable to resolve the problem, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service  
facility.  
83  
Sp e cifica t io n s  
Mass  
In p u t a n d o u t p u t  
Vid e o ca m e ra  
re co rd e r  
Approx. 780g excluding the battery  
pack and the cassette  
Approx. 860g including the battery  
pack NP-F330, lithium battery and  
cassette DVM60  
Approx. 890g including the battery  
pack NP-F550, lithium battery and  
cassette DVM60  
Approx. 1kg including the battery  
pack NP-F730, lithium battery and  
cassette DVM60  
Approx. 1kg including the battery  
pack NP-F750, lithium battery and  
cassette DVM60  
Approx. 1.1kg including the battery  
pack NP-F950, lithium battery and  
cassette DVM60  
Microphone  
Electret condenser microphone,  
Stereo type  
co n n e ct o rs  
S video input/output  
4-pin mini DIN  
Syst e m  
Video recording system  
Two rotary heads, Helical scanning  
system  
Audio recording system  
Rotary heads, PCM system  
Quantization: 12bits (Fs 32kHz,  
stereo 1, stereo 2), 16bits (Fs 48kHz,  
stereo)  
Video signal  
NTSC color, EIA standards  
Usable cassette  
Mini DV cassette with logo printed  
Tape speed  
SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/ s  
LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/ s  
Recording/playback time  
SP mode: 1 hour (DVM60)  
LP mode: 1.5 hours (DVM60)  
Fastforw ard/rew ind time  
Approx. 2 min. 30 s (DVM60)  
Image device  
CCD (Charge Coupled Device 1/ 4”)  
View finder  
Electric viewfinder (color)  
Lens  
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms,  
unbalanced, sync negative  
Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p,  
75 ohms, unbalanced  
Audio/Video input/output  
AV MINI JACK, 1 Vp-p, 75 ohms,  
unbalanced, sync negative  
327 mV, (at output impedance  
more than 47 kilohms)  
Output impedance with less than  
2.2 kilohms/ Stereo minijack  
(ø 3.5mm)  
Input impedance more than 47  
kilohms  
DV input/output  
4-pin special connector  
Headphones  
Stereo minijack (ø 3.5 mm)  
MIC input  
Speaker  
Dynamic-speaker  
Supplied accessories  
See page 6.  
Stereo minijack (ø 3.5mm):0.388mV,  
DC2.5V  
Input impedance 6.8 kilohms  
lLANC jack  
AC p o w e r a d a p t o r  
Stereo miniminijack (ø 2.5 mm)  
Pow er requirements  
110 to 240 V AC, 50/ 60 Hz  
Pow er consumption  
25 W  
Output voltage  
DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.9 A in operating  
mode  
Battery charge terminal: 8.4 V, 1.4 A  
in charge mode  
Application  
LASER LINK  
Video/audio  
Combined power zoom lens, 180x  
(Digital), 15x (Optical)  
Focal distance  
IR space transmission system  
according to EIAJ (Electric  
Industries Association of Japan)  
standards  
Audio carrier w ave  
Lch : 4.3MHz  
f =3.4 to 51 mm  
(44 to 660 mm when converted into  
a 35 mm still camera)  
F 1.8 – 2.4  
TTL autofocus system inner focus  
wide macro system  
Rch : 4.8MHz  
Sony battery pack NP-F330, NP-  
F530, NP-F550, NP-F730, NP-F750,  
NP-F930, NP-F950 lithium ion type  
Operating temperature  
0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)  
Storage temperature  
–20°C to 60°C (–4°F to 140°F)  
Dimensions (Approx.)  
81 x 45 x 163 mm (w/ h/ d)  
Mass (Approx.)  
Color temperature  
Auto  
Minimum illumination  
4 lux at F 1.8  
0 lux when using NightShot  
Illumination range  
4 to 100,000 lux  
Recommended illumination  
More than 100 lux  
Ge n e ra l  
Pow er requirements  
7.2 V (battery insertion input)  
Average pow er consumption  
4.0 W during camera recording  
using viewfinder  
5.0 W during camera recording  
using LCD screen  
5.4 W during playback using  
LASER LINK (when viewfinder is  
on and LCD is off)  
Operating temperature  
0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)  
Storage temperature  
–20°C to 60°C (–4°F to 140°F)  
Dimensions  
190 g  
LCD scre e n  
Picture  
Design and specifications are  
subject to change without notice.  
3.5 inches measured diagonally  
72.4 x 50.4 mm  
On-screen display  
TN LCD/ TFT active matrix method  
Total dot number  
184,580 (839 x 220)  
Approx. 87 x 104 x 173.2mm  
(w/ h/ d)  
84  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s  
6
7
8
1
9
!º  
2
3
4
5
!¡  
1 FOCUS sw itch (p. 37)  
2 OPEN sw itch (p. 20)  
6 View finder lens adjustment lever (p. 12)  
7 • PHOTO button (p. 31)  
3 PROGRAM AE button (p. 35)  
4 EXPOSURE button (p. 40)  
5 CONTROL dial (p. 24)  
8
BATT (battery release) button (p. 9)  
9 POWER sw itch (p. 11, 20)  
0 START/STOP button (p. 11)  
¡! Hooks for shoulder strap (p. 90)  
85  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s  
!™  
!£  
!¢  
!∞  
!ª  
@º  
@¡  
@™  
!§  
!¶  
!•  
!Tape transport buttons (p. 20)  
π STOP (stop)  
ª! View finder (p. 12)  
0 REW (rewind)  
· PLAY (playback)  
) FF (fastforward)  
P PAUSE (pause)  
º @ BACK LIGHT button (p. 28)  
¡@ FADER button (p. 29)  
@NIGHTSHOT sw itch (p. 30)  
r REC (record)  
EDITSEARCH button (p. 19)  
!¢ LASER LINK button (p. 51)  
!Intelligent accessory shoe  
!§ Remote sensor  
¶! Recording/battery lamp  
• ! Microphone  
Note on the intelligent accessory shoe  
Supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light or microphone. The intelligent  
accessory shoe is linked to the POWER switch, allowing you to turn on and off the power  
supplied by the shoe. Refer to the operating instruction of the accessory for further  
information. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten  
the screw. To remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and then press down and pull out the  
accessory.  
86  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s  
#º #¡  
@£  
@ª  
@¢  
@∞  
#™  
#£  
#¢  
@§  
@¶  
@•  
#∞  
Speaker  
ª@ START/STOP MODE sw itch (p. 14)  
º # 16:9WIDE button (p. 33)  
¡# END SEARCH button (p. 19)  
#TITLE button (p. 41, 44)  
@¢ LCD Screen (p. 15, 20)  
@LCD BRIGHT button (p. 15, 20)  
§@ VOL (volume) button (p. 20)  
¶@ DATA CODE button (p. 60)  
• @ DISPLAY button (p. 20)  
#£ MENU button (p. 24)  
#¢ RESET button (p. 81)  
#PICTURE EFFECT button (p. 39)  
87  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s  
#§  
#¶  
#•  
$™  
$£  
$¢  
#ª  
$º  
$∞  
$§  
$¶  
$•  
$¡  
§# Pow er zoom sw itch (p. 13)  
$™ EJECT sw itch (p. 10)  
¶ # LANC l control jack  
S VIDEO jack (p. 32, 50, 62)  
Focus ring (p. 37)  
l stands for Local Application Control Bus  
System. The l control jack is used for  
controlling the tape transport of video  
equipment and peripherals connected to it.  
This jack has the same function as the jack  
indicated as CONTROL L or REMOTE.  
$∞ MIC jack (PLUG IN POWER) (p. 65)  
Connect an external microphone (not  
supplied). This jack also accepts a “plug-in-  
power” microphone.  
• # 2 headphones jack (p. 21)  
ª# Cassette lid (p. 10)  
$§ Laser Link emitter (p. 51)  
/NightShot Light emitter (p. 30)  
º$ Grip strap (p. 17)  
¶$ AUDIO/VIDEO jack (p. 50, 62)  
¡$ Tripod receptacle (p. 18)  
• $ DV IN/OUT jack (p. 61)  
Make sure that the length of the tripod screw  
is less than 6.5 mm. Otherwise, you cannot  
attach the tripod securely and the screw may  
damage the camcorder.  
This “i.LINK” mark is a trademark of Sony  
Corporation and indicates that this product is  
in agreement with IEEE 1394-1995  
specifications and their revisions.  
The DV IN/ OUT jack is i.LINK compatible.  
88  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s  
Re m o t e Co m m a n d e r  
The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on the camcorder  
function identically.  
1
2
3
4
5
6
!™  
!¡  
!º  
9
8
7
1 PHOTO button (p. 31)  
8 DATA CODE button (p. 60)  
9 Pow er zoom button (p. 13)  
º ! START/STOP button (p. 11)  
¡! Transmitter  
2 DISPLAY button (p. 20)  
3 SEARCH MODE button (p. 52, 55, 56)  
4 =/ + buttons (p. 52, 55, 56)  
5 Tape transport buttons (p. 20)  
6 REC button (p. 64)  
Point toward the remote sensor to control the  
camcorder after turning on the camcorder.  
!ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 59)  
7 AUDIO DUB button (p. 66)  
To p re p a re t h e Re m o t e Co m m a n d e r  
To use the Remote Commander, you must insert two R6 (size AA) batteries. Use the  
supplied R6 (size AA) batteries.  
(1)Remove the battery cover from the Remote Commander.  
(2)Insert both of the R6 (size AA) batteries with correct polarity.  
(3)Put the battery cover back onto the Remote Commander.  
3
1
2
89  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e Pa rt s  
Note on battery life  
The batteries for the Remote Commander last about 6 months under normal operation.  
When the batteries become weak or dead, the Remote Commander does not work.  
To avoid damage from possible battery leakage  
Remove the batteries when you will not use the Remote Commander for a long time.  
Re m o t e co n t ro l d ire ct io n  
Aim the Remote Commander to the remote sensor.  
The operative range of the Remote Commander is about 5 m indoors. Depending on the  
angle, Remote Commander may not activate the camcorder.  
Notes on the Remote Commander  
• Keep the remote sensor away from strong light sources such as direct sunlight or  
illumination. Otherwise, the remote control may not be effective.  
• Be sure that there is no obstacle between the remote sensor on the camcorder and the  
Remote Commander.  
• This camcorder works in commander mode VTR 2. The commander modes (1,2 and 3) are  
used to distinguish this camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control  
misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in commander mode VTR 2, we recommend  
you change the commander mode or cover the remote sensor of the VCR with black  
paper.  
At t a ch in g t h e sh o u ld e r st ra p  
Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for the shoulder strap.  
1
2
3
90  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e Pa rt s  
Op e ra t io n in d ica t o rs  
!£  
!¢  
!∞  
!§  
!¶  
!•  
!ª  
@º  
@¡  
@™  
@£  
@¢  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
!º  
!¡  
!™  
STBY  
0 : 1 2 : 3 4  
40min  
ZERO SET  
MEMORY  
W
T
M FADER  
16:9WIDE  
SOLARIZE  
PHOTO REC END SEARCH  
“NIGHT SHOT”  
DV IN  
16BIT  
VOL  
50min  
1 Mirror mode indicator (p. 16)  
!§ Recording standby mode indicator (p. 11)  
/Tape transport mode indicator  
2 Zoom indicator (p. 13) /Exposure indicator  
(p. 40)  
¶! Time code indicator (p. 12) /Self diagnosis  
indicator (p. 83)  
3 Video flash indicator  
• ! Remaining tape indicator (p. 13)  
4 Manual focus/Infinity indicator (p. 37)  
5 PROGRAM AE indicator (p. 34)  
6 SteadyShot indicator (p. 49)  
7 BACK LIGHT indicator (p. 28)  
8 FADER indicator (p. 29)  
ª! ZERO SET MEMORY indicator (p. 59)  
/Photo capture indicator (p. 31)  
º @ END SEARCH indicator (p. 19)  
¡@ PHOTO REC indicator (p. 31)  
@DV IN indicator (p. 61)  
9 16:9WIDE indicator (p. 33)  
0 PICTURE EFFECT indicator (p. 38)  
¡! Warning indicators (p. 93)  
Audio mode indicator (p. 67)  
@¢ Remaining battery indicator (p. 70)  
/Remaining time in minutes indicator  
!BRT (bright) indicator (p. 15, 20)  
/VOL (volume) indicator (p. 20)  
NightShot indicators (p. 30)  
!¢ Cassette Memory indicator (p. 4)  
!Recording mode indicator (p. 11)  
91  
Id e n t ifyin g t h e p a rt s  
To w a t ch t h e d e m o n st ra t io n  
You can watch a brief demonstration of pictures with special effects. If the demonstration  
appears when you turn on the camcorder for the first time, exit the demo mode to use your  
camcorder.  
To enter demo mode  
(1)Eject the cassette and set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)While holding down ·, set the POWER switch to CAMERA. The demonstration starts.  
The demonstration stops when you insert the cassette. NIGHTSHOT should be set to ON  
to start demonstration.  
Note that once you enter demo mode, this mode is retained as long as the vanadium  
rechargeable battery is in place. Therefore, demonstration starts automatically 10 minutes  
later every time you set the POWER switch to CAMERA, and after you eject the cassette.  
To exit demo mode  
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.  
(2)While holding down π, set the POWER switch to CAMERA.  
Note on demo mode  
When you set NIGHTSHOT to ON in the menu system, NIGHTSHOT indicator appears in  
the viewfinder or on the LCD screen. At this time, you cannot select DEMO MODE in the  
menu system.  
92  
Wa rn in g in d ica t o rs  
If indicators flash on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder or warning messages appear on  
the display window, check the following:  
:
You can hear the beep sound when BEEP is set to ON in the menu system.  
2
1
4
3
5min  
0
min  
6
9
5
7
!º  
8
!¡  
C : 31: 10  
1 The battery is w eak or dead.  
7 The video heads may be contaminated.  
Slow flashing: The battery is weak.  
Fast flashing: The battery is dead.  
Depending on conditions, the i indicator  
may flash, even if there are 5 to 10 minutes  
remaining.  
(p. 74)  
8 The clock is not set.  
When this message appears though you set  
the date and time, the vanadium-lithium  
battery is discharged. Charge the vanadium-  
lithium battery. (p. 69)  
2 The tape is near the end.  
The flashing is slow.  
9 Some other trouble has occurred.  
Use the self-diagnosis function (p. 83). If the  
display does not disappear contact your Sony  
dealer or local authorized Sony service  
facility.  
3 The tape has run out.  
The flashing becomes rapid.  
4 No tape has been inserted.  
5 The tab on the tape is out (red).  
6 Moisture condensation has occurred. (p. 74)  
0 The battery is not the “InfoLITHIUM type.  
¡! The tape has no cassette memory. (p. 4)  
93  
In d e x  
A, B  
I, J, K, L  
T, U, V  
Audio mode ................................ 67  
Battery release .............................. 9  
BEEP ............................................ 12  
InfoLITHIUM ............................. 72  
LASER LINK .............................. 51  
LCD BRIGHT ....................... 15, 20  
LP mode ...................................... 12  
i .LINK ......................................... 88  
Time code .................................... 12  
Title (making) ............................. 44  
Title (superimposition) ............. 41  
Title search .................................. 55  
Tripod mounting ....................... 18  
VOL (volume) ............................ 20  
C
Car battery .................................. 23  
Cassette memory ......................... 4  
Charging battery pack ................ 7  
Charging vanadium-lithium  
battery ...................................... 68  
Cleaning video heads ................ 74  
Clock set ...................................... 69  
Color TV system .................... 4, 77  
Connection ............................ 50, 61  
COPY INHIBIT .......................... 67  
M, N  
W, X, Y, Z  
Manual focus .............................. 36  
Menu system .............................. 24  
Mirror mode ............................... 16  
Moisture condensation ............. 74  
NIGHTSHOT ............................. 30  
Normal charge ............................. 7  
Wide TV mode ........................... 33  
ZERO SET MEMORY................ 59  
Zoom ........................................... 13  
O, P, Q  
PHOTO ....................................... 31  
Photo scan ................................... 56  
Photo search ............................... 56  
Playback on a TV ....................... 50  
Playback pause ........................... 21  
Power sources ............................ 23  
Power zoom ................................ 13  
PROGRAM AE........................... 34  
D, E  
Data Code ................................... 60  
Date search ................................. 52  
Demo ........................................... 92  
DISPLAY ..................................... 20  
Digital zoom ............................... 13  
DV connecting cable .................. 61  
DV format ................................... 50  
DV IN/ OUT ............................... 61  
Editing ......................................... 61  
EJECT .......................................... 10  
END SEARCH ............................ 19  
Exposure ..................................... 40  
R
Remaining battery indicator .... 70  
Remaining tape indicator ......... 13  
Remote Commander ................. 89  
F, G, H  
S
Fade-in/ fade-out ....................... 29  
FADER ........................................ 29  
FOCUS......................................... 36  
Full charge .................................... 7  
Self-diagnosis function ............. 83  
SP mode ...................................... 12  
Standby mode ............................ 11  
START/ STOP MODE switch ... 14  
SteadyShot .................................. 49  
94  
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan  

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