Sony DSR 500WSL User Manual
3-866-520-14(1)  
Digital Camcorder  
Operating Instructions  
Before operating the unit, please read this manual  
thoroughly and retain it for future reference.  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
2000 Sony Corporation  
WARNING  
VARNING  
Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte.  
Använd samma batterityp eller en likvärdig typ som  
rekommenderas av apparattillverkaren.  
Kassera använt batteri enligt gällande föreskrifter.  
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not  
expose the unit to rain or moisture.  
To avoid electrical shock, do not open  
the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified  
personnel only.  
VAROITUS  
Paristo voi räjähtää jos se on virheellisesti asennettu.  
Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan  
tyyppiin.  
Hävitä käytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.  
Owner’s Record  
For customers in the USA  
The model and serial numbers are located on the top.  
Record these numbers in the spaces provided below. Refer  
to them whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding  
this product.  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with  
the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of  
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide  
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the  
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This  
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency  
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the  
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio  
communications. Operation of this equipment in a  
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in  
which case the user will be required to correct the  
interference at his own expense.  
Model No.  
Serial No.  
LITHIUM BATTERY  
Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Use  
of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.  
WARNING  
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not  
expressly approved in this manual could void your authority  
to operate this equipment.  
Battery may explode if mistreated.  
Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.  
The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual  
must be used with this equipment in order to comply with the  
limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of  
FCC Rules.  
Note  
Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children.  
Should the battery be swallowed, consult a doctor  
immediately.  
For customers in Europe (DSR-500WSPL only)  
This product with the CE marking complies with the EMC  
Directive (89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the  
European Community.  
Compliance with this directive implies conformity to the  
following European standards:  
ADVARSEL!  
Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig håndtering.  
Udskiftning må kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat og  
type.  
Levér det brugte batteri tilbage til laverandøren.  
• EN55103-1: Electromagnetic Interference (Emission)  
• EN55103-2: Electromagnetic Susceptibility (Immunity)  
This product is inteded for use in the following  
Electromagnetic Environment (s):  
ADVARSEL  
Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosjonsfare.  
E1 (residential), E2 (commercial and light industrial), E3  
(urban outdoors) and E4 (controlled EMC environment, ex.  
TV studio)  
Ved utskifting benyttes kun batteri som anbefalt av  
apparatfabrikanten.  
Brukt batteri returneres apparatleverandøren.  
Voor de klanten in Nederland  
Gooi de batterij niet weg, maar lever hem in  
als KCA  
2
Table of Contents  
Chapter 1  
Overview  
Product Configurations ....................................................7  
Features .............................................................................8  
Features on Camera Section ................................................ 8  
Features on VCR Section .................................................. 10  
Location and Function of Parts .....................................12  
Front View ......................................................................... 12  
Right Side View................................................................. 13  
Left and Upper View ......................................................... 23  
Rear and Bottom................................................................ 25  
VCL-918BY Zoom Lens (not supplied) ........................... 27  
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder............................................. 29  
Chapter 2  
Fitting and  
Connections  
Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery ...............31  
Fitting the Lens ...............................................................32  
Using Accessories ..........................................................34  
Using the Viewfinder......................................................... 34  
Fitting the 4-inch/5-inch Electronic Viewfinder ............... 35  
Fitting to a Tripod.............................................................. 35  
Using an Optional Microphone ......................................... 36  
Using a Video Light .......................................................... 37  
Fitting the Shoulder Strap ................................................. 38  
Connecting to Audio System ............................................. 39  
Using the Optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit  
(Equipped With Microphone And Monitor)................. 41  
Using the RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit ......................... 42  
Using the Optional LC-DS500 Carrying Case .................. 43  
Using the Optional LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case ... 43  
Connections ....................................................................44  
Connecting a Number of Camcorders ............................... 44  
Connecting the DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette  
Recorder (Optional DSBK-140 Is Required) ............... 45  
Connecting an External VCR ............................................ 45  
Power Supply...................................................................46  
Using a BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A Battery  
Pack .............................................................................. 46  
Table of Contents  
3
Table of Contents  
Using an AC Adaptor ........................................................ 48  
Using the Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System ........... 48  
Chapter 3  
Shooting  
Basic Procedure for Shooting........................................49  
Using DynaLatitude Function ........................................... 50  
Recording ........................................................................51  
Cassettes for the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL ...................... 51  
Recording on the Internal VCR ......................................... 52  
Recording an External Video Signals................................ 56  
Recording on an External VCR Using the VTR Connector  
(26-pin)......................................................................... 56  
Recording on an External VCR Using the DV OUT  
Connector ..................................................................... 57  
Back Space Editing .........................................................58  
Starting Back Space Editing at Any Tape Position ........... 58  
Using the Edit Search Function While Back Space  
Editing .......................................................................... 59  
Using the Freeze Mix Function ......................................... 60  
Playback — Checking Recorded Contents ...................61  
Checking the Recorded Contents Immediately After  
Shooting — Recording Review ................................... 61  
Viewing Monochrome Playback in the Viewfinder .......... 61  
Viewing Color Playback.................................................... 61  
Setting Time Values .........................................................62  
Setting the User Bit Value ................................................. 63  
Setting the Time Code Value ............................................. 64  
Synchronization With External Time Code Signals  
— Gen-Lock................................................................. 66  
ClipLink Shooting ...........................................................68  
Setting Editing Points While Shooting.............................. 70  
Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode ........................... 72  
Chapter 4  
Viewfinder Screen  
Indications and  
Menus  
Viewfinder Screen Indications .......................................75  
Changing the Viewfinder Display ..................................... 75  
4
Table of Contents  
Viewfinder Normal Indications.......................................76  
Status Indications .............................................................. 79  
Viewfinder Basic Menu ...................................................80  
Basic Menu Operations ..................................................... 80  
Contents and Settings of Each Menu Page........................ 80  
Viewfinder Advanced Menu............................................86  
Advanced Menu Operations .............................................. 86  
Contents and Settings of Each Menu Page........................ 87  
Video Output and Viewfinder Picture ............................... 93  
Setup Files .......................................................................94  
Calling up a Setup File ...................................................... 94  
Changing File Settings ...................................................... 96  
Saving File Settings........................................................... 96  
Using SetupNavi and SetupLog.....................................99  
Setting Up the Camera Using Data Recorded on Tape ..... 99  
Recording the Menu Settings Onto a Tape...................... 100  
Viewing SetupLog Data .................................................. 101  
Chapter 5  
Adjustments and  
Settings  
Setting on the VCR Section — VCR Menu...................103  
VCR Menu Operation ....................................................104  
Basic Operation ............................................................... 104  
Menu 101 Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar ... 105  
Menu 201 Checking the Total Operating (Power-On)  
Hours .......................................................................... 105  
Menu 204 Selecting Frame Mode (DF/NDF) for Time  
Code (for DSR-500WSL Only) ................................. 105  
Menu 206 Selecting Battery Capacity Indication .......... 106  
Menu 207 Setting Standby-On Period ........................... 106  
Menu 210 Using Auto-Check Function .......................... 107  
Menu 211 Selecting ClipLink Function ......................... 109  
Menu 212 Selecting Audio Recording Mode ................. 109  
Menu 213 Selecting Audio Reference Level.................. 110  
Menu 214 Setting Fade-In/Fade-Out for the Audio  
Recording Start and Stop Points ................................ 110  
Menu 220 Using Setup Add (for DSR-500WSL  
Only) .......................................................................... 111  
Table of Contents  
5
Table of Contents  
Menu 221 Using Setup Remove (for DSR-500WSL  
Only) .......................................................................... 111  
White Balance Adjustment ...........................................112  
Saving an Appropriate White Balance Value in  
Memory ...................................................................... 112  
Using the Preset White Balance Settings ........................ 113  
Light Sources and Color Temperature............................. 114  
Using the ATW (Auto Tracing White Balance)  
Function...................................................................... 114  
Black Balance Adjustment ...........................................115  
Shutter Settings ............................................................116  
Viewfinder Screen Adjustments ..................................118  
Adjusting the Lens ........................................................119  
Flange Focal Length Adjustment .................................... 119  
Iris Adjustments............................................................... 120  
Adjusting the Iris Sensitivity........................................... 121  
Macrophotography .......................................................... 121  
Settings for Special Cases ...........................................122  
Skin Detail Correction..................................................... 123  
Adjusting Color in the Specified Area ............................ 123  
Appendix  
Important Notes on Operation .....................................125  
Characteristics of CCD Sensors ...................................... 125  
Cleaning the Video Heads ............................................126  
Warning System ............................................................127  
Condensation ................................................................... 128  
Troubleshooting ............................................................129  
Specifications ................................................................131  
Related Products.............................................................. 133  
Measuring Horizontal Resolution ................................... 134  
Chart of Optional Components and Accessories ......135  
What is ClipLink? ..........................................................136  
How ClipLink Changes Video Production Techniques ... 136  
ClipLink Operation Flow ...............................................137  
Example System Configuration ...................................... 137  
Data Generated When Shooting ...................................... 138  
Glossary.........................................................................141  
6
Table of Contents  
Product Configurations  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL consists of the following items:  
VCT-U14 Tripod  
Adaptor  
Microphone (with the  
wind screen attached)  
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder  
Switch guard*  
RM-LG1 Remote  
Control Unit  
Test chart for flange  
focal length  
adjustment  
Shoulder strap  
DSR-500WS/500WSP  
Camcorder  
• Lens mount cap  
• Binding tie  
• Operating instructions  
* The switch guard can be removed. (See page 12.)  
Chapter 1 Overview  
7
Features  
Sophisticated image processing  
Features on Camera Section  
TruEye™ processing makes possible the following  
performance features. This digital signal processing  
has brought reproduction of natural colors to the level  
achieved by the human eye.  
2
/
3-inch IT type Power HAD WS CCD  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL Digital Camcorder uses  
a newly developed 520,000-pixel Power HAD WS  
(wide screen) CCD, for outstanding sensitivity and  
picture quality.  
• Sensitivity: F11.0 (at 3200 K, 2000 lux)  
• S/N: 63 dB  
DynaLatitude™  
Enables detailed adjustment of contrast control in each  
pixel in accordance with a histogram of luminance  
signal levels. (See pages 50, 81 and 88.)  
• Smear: –120 dB  
DCC+ (dynamic contrast control plus)  
Prevents white breakup when shooting a high intensity  
subject, and also prevents color faults in high intensity  
subject.  
Switchable between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect  
ratios  
A simple menu operation provides instant switching  
between the 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios. In 4:3 mode, a  
screen equivalent to a 4:3 screen is obtained through  
digital processing of the 16:9 video signals produced  
by the WS CCD. (See page 92.)  
Black stretch and compress  
Enables control of luminance signal levels in black  
areas without changing the hue.  
Variety of detail corrections  
• Skin detail function: this function gives a slightly  
softer appearance to the subject’s face. The target  
skin color can be automatically set.  
• Black halo correction  
• Red/green vertical detail correction: this function  
performs vertical detail compensation for both red  
and green signals.  
Wide-aspect ID signals  
A menu setting is available to add wide-aspect ID  
signals1) to 16:9-mode video signals.2) (See page 92.)  
• Horizontal detail frequency control  
Automatic aspect ratio switching in  
viewfinder  
Recording and managing setup data  
When the supplied DXF-801/801CE viewfinder is  
used, the viewfinder scan size automatically switches  
in accordance with the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3)  
selected for the camera. (See page 92.)  
In addition to the setup menu that is displayed in the  
viewfinder screen, the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL is  
equipped with the following functions to facilitate  
camcorder setup.  
Setup file system  
You can use setup files when making adjustments or  
settings. The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL comes with  
factory preset files that contain shipped settings and  
you can freely create user files as well. (See page 94.)  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) ID signals complying with EIAJ CPR-1204 (DSR-  
500WSL) or complying with ETS WSS (DSR-  
500WSPL).  
2) Video signals refer to the following:  
• Video signals output from the VIDEO OUT connector  
and MONITOR OUT connector.  
• The Y component of Y/C separate signals and the Y  
component of component signals output from the VTR  
connector.  
8
Chapter 1 Overview  
Automatic recording of setup data (page 99)  
SetupLog™: Shooting-related environment settings  
are recorded onto the tape at intervals of a few  
seconds. This recorded data can be used to  
reproduce the same shooting conditions in  
subsequent shots. It also makes it easier to identify  
the causes of problems in previous shots.  
Hyper gain  
Hyper gain (36 dB or 42 dB, i.e. about 60 times or 120  
times greater than 0 dB) can be easily set via one  
switch setting. This can also be done from remote  
equipment. (See pages 21, 22 and 88.)  
Auto tracing white balance (ATW)  
SetupNavi™: The setup conditions selected with the  
setup menu and setup files are recorded onto the  
tape. The recorded setup data can be copied to  
other camcorders so that the same setup can be  
shared among several camcorders.  
This function automatically traces the white balance,  
which constantly changes as lighting conditions  
change. Auto tracing white balance is especially useful  
when there is no time to manually adjust the white  
balance or when shooting moves between indoor and  
outdoor locations. (See pages 13, 14 and 114.)  
Functions boost operability  
Total level control system (TLCS)  
Even if the incoming light exceeds the range in which  
the standard auto iris can control exposure, the auto  
gain control (AGC) or auto exposure (AE) backs up to  
ensure proper exposure. (See pages 14 and 90.)  
Controlling with the RM-VJ1 Remote Control  
Unit  
You can control this unit while watching the image  
with the optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit  
(equipped with the microphone and monitor). (See  
page 41.)  
Recording time (REC TIME) display  
Recording time can be displayed in either of the  
following modes. (See pages 21 and 82.)  
• Total recording time for all cuts (TTL2))  
• Total recording time for current cut (DUR3))  
EZ (easy) mode function  
When there is no time to check the camcorder settings,  
simply press the EZ MODE button to start the auto  
adjustment function using standard settings. There is  
no need to lose a shot for lack of setup time. (See  
pages 13, 14, 90 and 91.)  
Viewfinder super detail  
Video signals for the viewfinder are mixed with DTL  
signals to make focusing easier.  
EZ (easy) focus  
Press the EZ FOCUS button before shooting to ensure  
a quick and accurate focus. (See page 13.)  
Dual zebra pattern display  
Two types of zebra patterns, zebra 1 and zebra 2 can  
be displayed simultaneously or independently. The  
zebra 1 can be set to the levels ranging from 70 to 90  
IRE on the DSR-500WSL (or from 70 to 90% on the  
DSR-500WSPL) and the zebra 2 indicates the levels of  
100 IRE or more for the DSR-500WSL (or the levels  
of 100% or more for the DSR-500WSPL). (See pages  
13, 14 and 89.)  
Dual pixel readout (DPR1))  
When the gain is set to either 18 dB or 24 dB, the gain  
setting can be doubled (6 dB up) without increasing  
the noise level.  
Programmable gain  
The amount of gain relative to the GAIN switch setting  
(H, M, or L) can be programmed as –3 dB, 0 dB, 3 dB,  
6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB+DPR, 24 dB,  
24 dB+DPR, and hyper gain. (See page 88.)  
Color temperature display  
When reading the white balance, the color temperature  
is displayed on the viewfinder screen. (See page 112.)  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
3) DUR = Duration  
1) DPR = Dual Pixel Readout  
2) TTL = Total  
Chapter 1 Overview  
9
Features  
Switching the color temperatures for the  
preset white balance  
Features on VCR Section  
You can select the preset white balance at 3200 K  
(default) or 5600 K (default) by setting the FILTER  
control. The preset white balance can be changed to  
other value through menu setting (See page 81).  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL uses the DVCAM  
recording format. The internal signal processing is  
digitalized to provide more stable output signals and  
higher reliability.  
Video monitor output with text  
The video signal with text superimposed that is shown  
in the viewfinder can also be output to an external  
video monitor. (See pages 19 and 20.)  
Compatible with consumer DV  
A DV cassette recorded on a DV-format VCR can be  
played back on the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL.  
(Cassettes recorded in LP mode cannot be played  
back.) (See page 51.)  
1-kHz reference signal output  
Along with a color bar, a 1-kHz reference signal can  
also be output. (See page 88.)  
Freeze mix function  
DVCAM cassettes (page 51)  
The freeze mix function superimposes any previously  
recorded still picture on the viewfinder screen to  
facilitate framing the subject when reshooting the  
scene. (See page 60.)  
• The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL can use both standard-  
size and mini-size DVCAM cassettes. According to  
cassette size, the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
automatically corrects reel position.  
• The maximum recording/playback times are 184  
minutes for standard size cassettes and 40 minutes for  
mini cassettes.  
• DVCAM cassettes include a cassette memory.  
Information about the editing points (ClipLink™ log  
data) that is specified while shooting is recorded into  
this cassette memory.  
Edit Search Function  
Pressing the EDIT SEARCH buttons allows the tape to  
play back in search mode. Set either of two playback  
speeds. (See pages 13 and 59.)  
Video light control  
A video light connector and control switch are  
equipped. You can turn the light on and off  
automatically as you start and stop VCR operation.  
(See page 13.)  
Recordable the external video signals  
Fitting the optional DSBK-501/501P Analog  
Composite Input Board enables the camcorder to  
record the external analog video signals. (See pages  
24, 56 and 81.)  
High-performance DXF-801/801CE  
Viewfinder (page 118)  
• Switching the aspect ratio automatically between  
16:9 and 4:3  
• High resolution (600 TV lines of horizontal  
resolution)  
• Large-diameter eye cup for easier viewing and  
focusing  
• PEAKING potentiometer for vertical and horizontal  
detail control  
• Three indicators can be used as TALLY indicators  
• Tough die-cast aluminum body  
• DISPLAY switch that can turn the character display  
on and off  
• Light that can light the lens control elements  
10  
Chapter 1 Overview  
ClipLink™ function  
Color playback  
The ClipLink function links all stages from shooting to  
editing. Once editing points have been set with this  
function during shooting, they can be used to boost the  
efficiency of editing work.  
However, this function does not work when using the  
DV OUT connector. (See pages 68, 109 and 136.)  
Connect an external video monitor for color playback  
(playback adaptor not required). The DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL is equipped with two video monitor  
connectors: one for composite video output and the  
other for S-video output. (See page 24.)  
VCR data display  
Creation of clips  
Using the ClipLink function, the camcorder operator  
can create clips to be used during editing.  
The images captured at the Mark IN points are  
recorded in a compressed format onto the tape as  
“Index Pictures.” In addition, editing point-related data  
(scene number, time code for Mark IN/OUT points,  
etc.) is recorded in the cassette memory.  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL is able to display the  
following data on the viewfinder screen. (See pages  
76, 89 and 90.)  
• Time values (counter, time code, or user bit values)  
• Audio recording levels  
• Remaining tape time  
• Operation mode of the VCR section  
• Remaining battery capacity  
ClipLink mode  
• ClipLink information  
To use the ClipLink function, select the menu setting  
to set the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL into ClipLink  
mode. There is also a ClipLink continue function that  
enables clips to be continued even after a break in  
recording.  
Recording on external VCRs  
Betacam or S-VHS VCRs can be connected to the  
VTR connector (26-pin) on the rear panel. (See pages  
25, 26, 45 and 56.)  
PCM digital audio  
Recording/playback can be set to audio lock mode.  
Selectable between two-channel recording (with a  
sampling frequency of 48 kHz) mode or four-channel  
recording (with a sampling frequency of 32 kHz) mode  
(CH-1 and CH-2 only). (See pages 16, 17, 55 and  
109.)  
Equipped with the DV OUT connector  
The DV OUT connector is i.LINK1) compatible. You  
can connect with the Sony equipment which has the  
DV input connector.  
You can do cut editing and digital dubbing if you  
connect the DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette  
Recorder (with the DSBK-140 is fitted) to the DV  
OUT connector on the camcorder, using an i.LINK  
cable (DV connecting cable). (See pages 25, 26, 45  
and 57.)  
Equipped with audio output connectors  
During recording or playback, audio output can be  
monitored via a built-in speaker, a connected earphone  
or via (two-channel) audio output connectors. (See  
pages 24 and 25.)  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) is a trademark of Sony Corporation and indicates that  
this product is in agreement with IEEE 1394-1995  
specifications and their revisions.  
Chapter 1 Overview  
11  
Location and Function of Parts  
Front View  
0 Switch guard  
How to remove the switch guard  
1. Detach the two screws (M3).  
2. Remove the switch guard, and replace the  
screws detached in step 1.  
1 MIC IN +48 V connector  
2 VF connector  
3 FILTER control  
4 Lens mount  
5 SHUTTER switch  
6 TAKE button  
7 AUDIO LEVEL knob  
Switch guard  
8 WHT/BLK switch  
9 VTR button  
1 MIC (microphone) IN +48 V connector (XLR 3-  
pin, female)  
Connect the supplied microphone or an optional  
microphone (operable with a 48 V supply).  
6 TAKE button  
Press this button to specify an editing point (Mark IN/  
OUT or Cue point) at the current tape position during  
shooting.(See pages 70 and 71.)  
2 VF (viewfinder) connector (20-pin)  
This is the connector for the DXF-801/801CE  
viewfinder.  
7 AUDIO LEVEL knob  
You can use this knob to manually adjust the channel 1  
audio recording level.  
3 FILTER control  
Select the color temperature conversion filter  
appropriate to the lighting conditions.(See page 49.)  
8 WHT/BLK (white/black) switch  
This switch is used for automatic adjustment of the  
white balance and black balance.(See pages 112 to  
115.)  
4 Lens mount  
Attach the optional zoom lens here.  
9 VTR button  
Pressing this button starts and stops recording on the  
VCR.  
5 SHUTTER switch  
Use this switch to set the shutter speed, CLS (clear  
scan), or EVS setting (see page 116).Usually, set this  
switch to OFF.  
0 Switch guard  
Avoids miss-operation of the EZ MODE button (4 on  
page 14), A.IRIS MODE switch (6 on page 14), and  
ATW button (qf on page 14). When using these  
buttons and switch, open the guard.  
12  
Chapter 1 Overview  
Right Side View  
Front section  
1 EZ FOCUS button  
2 EDIT SEARCH buttons  
3 LIGHT switch  
4 EZ MODE button and indicator  
5 ZEBRA button and indicator  
6 A.IRIS MODE switch and indicator  
7 MENU switch  
8 W. BAL switch  
9 MENU dial  
0 POWER switch  
qa OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch  
qs NG button  
qd GAIN switch  
qf ATW button and indicator  
1 EZ FOCUS button  
2 EDIT SEARCH buttons  
Press this button to turn the “easy focus” function on.  
This opens the iris, to make it easier to focus before  
beginning shooting. The indication “EZ FOCUS”  
appears in the viewfinder while the function is on; to  
turn it off, press the EZ FOCUS button again. If left  
on, the function automatically turns off after about ten  
seconds.  
You can see the search playback while pressing either  
of these buttons at recording pause mode to quickly  
find the next recording start point. Two playback  
speeds are available, and press either of the buttons to  
the inner position to increase the speed.  
3 LIGHT (video light) switch  
Controls the video light connected as follows.  
AUTO: turns on the video light at recording if the  
power switch on the light is set on.  
MAN (manual): allows the power switch on the  
video light to turn the light on and off.  
Note  
If the “easy focus” function is still on when you press  
the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens, it turns  
off automatically and recording starts about one  
second later.  
Chapter 1 Overview  
13  
Location and Function of Parts  
4 EZ (“easy”) MODE button and indicator  
Press this button (EZ mode on) when you want to be  
able to shoot immediately, with automatic adjustment  
of the camcorder settings to standard values. (See page  
91 for EZ mode settings.) When this function is used,  
the iris and the white balance are adjusted  
automatically. (The total level control system  
functions.) Press this button again to return the  
camcorder to the previous settings (EZ mode off).  
0 POWER switch  
Powers the camcorder on or off.  
qa OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ (Color bar output/  
DynaLatitude/dynamic contrast control plus) switch  
Use this switch to select the DCC+ function, the  
DynaLatitude function, or color bar output.  
Select the CAM/DCC+ position in most cases.  
CAM/DCC+: This activates the DCC+ function.  
This prevents color faults when shooting high-  
intensity subjects.  
Note  
When the RM-M7G Remote Control Unit is connected  
or external analog signals are input, the “easy mode”  
function is disabled.  
CAM/DL: This setting uses the DynaLatitude  
function, which finely adjusts the contrast of each  
pixel according to a histogram of luminance signal  
levels. Access advanced menu page 2 to set the  
DynaLatitude function ON or OFF. The  
DynaLatitude effect can be set to any of three  
levels, Low, STD (standard), and High with basic  
menu page 2.  
5 ZEBRA button and indicator  
Depress this button to display a zebra pattern (diagonal  
stripes) in the viewfinder.  
Depending on the zebra setting in advanced menu page  
4 (see page 89), the zebra 1 for video levels between  
70 to 90 IRE (or 70 to 90%) and the zebra 2 for video  
levels 100 IRE or more (or 100% or more) can be  
displayed independently or simultaneously.  
BARS: This setting displays color bars.  
For details of menu operation, see Chapter 4 “Viewfinder  
Screen Indications and Menus”.  
qs NG button  
6 A.IRIS (auto iris) MODE switch and indicator  
When you use the auto iris function (by setting the  
IRIS selector on the lens to A), set this switch to suit  
the shooting conditions. Selecting BACK L gives more  
light to back-lit subjects, and selecting SPOT L adjusts  
for high contrast in spot-lit subjects. For normal  
shooting, set this switch to STD.  
When using the ClipLink function during shooting,  
you can designate a particular scene as “NG” (No  
Good) by pressing this button before shooting the next  
scene. Press the button again to cancel the NG setting.  
qd GAIN switch  
This selects one of the three gain settings, high,  
medium or low. You can choose the gain values  
assigned to the H, M and L settings from values from  
–3 dB to 24 dB + DPR, and hyper gain. (See page 88.)  
The factory default selections are 18 dB (H), 9 dB (M)  
and 0 dB (L).  
7 MENU switch  
When you press this switch to the ON position, the  
basic menu is displayed. Keep pressing it to the ON  
position to cycle through the various menu displays.  
When you press the switch to the STATUS position,  
the camcorder’s status (of current settings) is  
displayed.  
Note  
When the HYPER GAIN switch (7 on page 22) is in  
the ON position, the GAIN switch has no effect.  
8 W. BAL (white balance) switch  
This selects the white balance setting from the preset  
value, the value in memory A or the value in memory  
B. (See page 113.) You can select the preset white  
balance at 3200 K or 5600 K using the FILTER  
control (3 on page 12). You can change the preset  
color temperature on basic menu page 2. (See page  
81.)  
qf ATW (auto tracing white balance) button and  
indicator  
Press this button, turning the indicator on, when you  
want the white balance to be adjusted automatically to  
follow changes in lighting conditions. (See page 114.)  
9 MENU dial  
Use this dial to change menu pages or settings.  
14  
Chapter 1 Overview  
Rear section  
1 EJECT button  
STOP  
REW  
PLAY  
F FWD  
EJECT  
2 Tape transport buttons and indicators  
3 EARPHONE connector  
4 WARNING indicator  
5 LIGHT switch  
6 DISPLAY switch  
7 AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs  
8 Display window  
9 RESET/(MENU SET) button  
0 Speaker  
qa ALARM knob  
qs MONITOR knob  
1 EJECT Z button  
Press to open the cassette holder (1 on page 24) when  
the camcorder is powered.  
3 EARPHONE connector (mini-jack)  
Connect an earphone or headphones. This outputs the  
sound which was output to the speaker (0 on page  
18), but mutes the speaker.  
2 Tape transport buttons and indicators  
These buttons transport the tape as shown below.  
4 WARNING indicator  
This lights or blinks when an abnormality occurs.  
Buttons  
Operation  
REW m  
Rewinds the tape. The indicator lights while  
the tape is being rewound.  
For details, see “Warning System” on page 127.  
Press while the tape is being rewound or  
during playback to view reverse search  
playback.  
5 LIGHT switch  
This switches the display window (8 on page 16)  
light on or off.  
F FWD M Fast forwards the tape. The indicator lights  
while the tape is being fast forwarded.  
Press while the tape is being fast forwarded  
or during playback to view forward search  
playback.  
6 DISPLAY switch  
Switches time value indication shown in the display  
window (8 on page 16).  
COUNTER: Shows the tape transport time in  
HH:MM:SS (hours, minutes and seconds).  
TC: Shows the time code value.  
PLAY N  
Plays back the recorded video. The indicator  
lights during playback.  
STOP x  
Stops the tape.  
Note  
U-BIT: Shows the user bit data in the time code.  
During recording, none of these buttons operates.  
Chapter 1 Overview  
15  
Location and Function of Parts  
The audio levels are indicated in the display window 8.  
For details, see “8 Display window” below.  
7 AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) (audio recording  
level adjustments for channels 1 and 2) knobs  
When the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches  
(4 on page 20) are set to MAN, these knobs adjust  
the audio levels being recorded on channels 1 and 2.  
8 Display window  
Shows the following items. Use the LIGHT switch (5  
on page 15) to light up the display window.  
A Playback indication  
B DATE indication  
C Non-drop frame indication (DSR-500WSL only)  
D External synchronization lock indication  
E Hold indication  
F Audio level indicators  
G ClipLink log data indication  
dB  
0
OVER  
OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
H ClipLink continue  
indication  
S Time value  
indication  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
CL  
FRM  
R Clip remaining  
indication  
I IP indication1)  
IP  
CONT  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
CL  
IP  
CONT  
-30  
-40  
Q Tape remaining  
indication  
P Battery capacity  
DVCAM  
Li  
DVCAM  
Li  
E
F
-∞  
J Lithium backup  
F
F
s 32k  
s 48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
battery warning  
indication  
O Service indication  
M Audio mode indications  
N Warning indications  
K DVCAM indication  
L Cassette memory indication  
1) When the optional DSBK-301A is fitted.  
Indications in the display window  
Description  
Indication  
A Playback indication  
Appears during playback, fast forward or rewind with the time data display showing a  
time code or user bit value.  
B DATE indication  
Appears when the date or time is displayed in the time value indication S area.  
C Non drop-frame indication (DSR- Appears when non-drop frame mode is selected.  
500WSL only)  
D External synchronization  
indication  
Appears when the internal time code generator is locked to an external signal input to  
the TC IN connector (3 on page 24).  
E Hold indication  
Appears when the internal time code generator is stopped.  
These show the audio recording or playback levels of channel 1 and channel 2.  
F Audio level indicators  
G ClipLink log data indication  
H ClipLink continue indication  
I IP(Index Picture) indication  
Appears when using a cassette with cassette memory containing ClipLink log data.  
Appears when back space editing using ClipLink function is possible.  
Appears when the ClipLink function is set to on in the VCR menu and Index Picture  
recording is allowed. (The optional DSBK-301A is required.)  
16  
Chapter 1 Overview  
Indication  
Description  
J Lithium backup battery warning  
Appears when the voltage of the internal lithium backup battery (CR2032) is low. If this  
indication appears, replace the lithium backup battery immediately.  
For further information about replacing lithium battery, see “Inserting and Replacing  
the Lithium Battery” (page 31).  
K DVCAM indication  
Disappears when the cassette being played back is not for DVCAM format.  
Appears when using a cassette with cassette memory.  
L Cassette memory indication  
M Audio mode indications  
These show audio recording/playback mode.  
Fs32k: 4-channel mode (32kHz sampling frequency)  
Fs48k: 2-channel mode (48kHz sampling frequency)  
For further information about selecting audio recording mode, see “Menu 212  
Selecting Audio Recording Mode” (page 109).  
N Warning indications  
Include the following.  
RF: Appears when the video heads are clogged, or when there is a fault in the  
recording system.  
SERVO: Appears when the servo lock is not functioning.  
HUMID: Appears when there is condensation on the drum.  
SLACK: Appears when there is a tape winding fault.  
For measures against warning indications, see “Warning System” (page 127).  
O Service indication  
Appears during maintenance or VCR menu operations (page 103). It does not appear  
during normal operation.  
P Battery capacity indication  
This indicates the battery capacity and voltage as shown below.  
Change menu setting for the battery you are using.  
For menu settings, see “Menu 206 Selecting Battery Capacity Indication” (page 106).  
Battery voltage  
Indication  
BP-L40/L40A/L60/ NP-1B/BP-90A  
L60A/L90/L90A  
BATT E[xxxxxx]F  
15.0 V or more  
14.0 to 15.0 V  
13.0 to 14.0 V  
12.0 to 13.0 V  
11.3 to 12.0 V  
11.25 to 11.3 V  
11.0 to 11.25 V  
11.0 V or less  
12.5 V or more  
12.0 to 12.5 V  
11.75 to 12.0 V  
11.5 to 11.75 V  
11.3 to 11.5 V  
11.25 to 11.3 V  
11.0 to 11.25 V  
11.0 V or less  
BATT E[xxxxxp]F  
BATT E[xxxxpp]F  
BATT E[xxxppp]F  
BATT E[xxpppp]F  
BATT E[xxpppp]F (blinking)1)  
BATT E[xppppp]F (blinking)  
BATT E[pppppp]F (blinking)  
1)Replace the battery pack when this indication appears.  
(Continued)  
Chapter 1 Overview  
17  
Location and Function of Parts  
Indication  
Description  
Q Tape remaining indication  
During recording or pause mode, this indication shows the remaining tape time as  
shown below. It is not displayed when no cassette is loaded.  
Indication  
Tape time remaining  
30 minutes or more  
25 to 30 minutes  
20 to 25 minutes  
15 to 20 minutes  
10 to 15 minutes  
5 to 10 minutes  
2 to 5 minutes  
TAPExxxxxxx  
TAPExxxxxx  
TAPExxxxx  
TAPExxxx  
TAPExxx  
TAPExx  
TAPEx  
TAPEx (blinking)  
TAPE (blinking)  
0 to 2 minutes  
End of tape  
R Clip remaining indication  
This shows how many clip shots or Cue points can be recorded1).  
Indication  
Clip shots  
51 or more  
41 to 50  
Cue point  
CLIPxxxxxx  
CLIPxxxxx  
CLIPxxxx  
CLIPxxx  
101 points or more  
81 to 100 points  
61 to 80 points  
41 to 60 points  
21 to 40 points  
1 to 20 points  
1 to 6 points  
31 to 40  
21 to 30  
CLIPxx  
11 to 20  
CLIPx  
CLIPx (blinking) 2)  
1 to 10  
1 to 3  
CLIP  
CLIP (blinking) 2)  
Cannot record  
Cannot record  
1) The optional DSBK-301A is required for Index Picture recording.  
2) When back space editing using ClipLink function is possible (when CONT is  
displayed).  
S Time value indication  
Depending onthe DISPLAY switch (6 on page 15) setting, this shows a counter value,  
time code value or user bit value. Press the MENU button (1 on page 19) to display  
the VCR menu.  
a) Bits of time code recorded on tape, in which users can  
record necessary information.  
9 RESET/(MENU SET) (counter reset/VCR  
menu) button  
Resets the time value shown in the display window.  
This button operates differently depending on settings  
of the DISPLAY switch (6 on page 15), and the TC  
mode switches 1 (9 on page 20) and 2 (8 on page  
20).  
Also, this button is used to change VCR menu settings.  
For details on the VCR menu, see “Setting on the VCR  
Section VCR Menu” (page 103).  
0 Speaker  
Switch setting  
RESET button operation  
Outputs the recorded or playback audio. When a  
warning indicator appears in the viewfinder or display  
window, the speaker sounds a warning tone.  
The speaker is muted (does not output a warning tone)  
when an earphone is connected to the EARPHONE  
connector (3 on page 15).  
DISPLAY: COUNTER  
Resets counter value to  
0:00:00.  
DISPLAY: TC  
TC mode switch 1: PRESET  
TC mode switch 2: SET  
Resets time code to  
00:00:00:00.  
DISPLAY: U-BIT  
TC mode switch 1: PRESET  
TC mode switch 2: SET  
Resets user bit a) to  
00 00 00 00.  
For details on the warning tone, see “Warning System”  
(page 127).  
18  
Chapter 1 Overview  
qa ALARM (alarm tone volume adjustment) knob  
Controls the volume of the warning tone that is output  
via the speaker (0 on page 18) or the EARPHONE  
connector (3 on page 15). Turning this knob to the  
minimum setting mutes the alarm tone.  
qs MONITOR (monitor volume adjustment) knob  
Controls the volume of the sound other than the  
warning tone that is output via the speaker (0 on page  
18) or the EARPHONE connector (3 on page 15).  
Turning this knob to the minimum setting mutes the  
audio output.  
Operation panel under the cover  
Right side  
1 MENU button  
2 ADVANCE button  
3 SHIFT button  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
4 AUDIO SELECT  
(CH-1/CH-2)  
switches  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
DATE/TIME  
SET  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
R-RUN  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
5 AUDIO IN (CH-1/  
REAR  
ON  
CH-2) switches  
OFF  
6 Lithium battery compartment  
7 MONITOR OUT CHARACTER switch  
8 TC mode switch 2  
9 TC mode switch 1  
0 ClipLink CONTINUE button  
qa MONITOR SELECT switch  
1 MENU button  
Press this button to display the VCR menu in the  
display window.  
been selected with the SHIFT button (3 on page 20).  
In other case, keep pressing this button to show the  
clip remaining indication instead of time value.  
(Example: CLIP 045)  
For details about the VCR menu, see “Setting on the VCR  
Section —VCR Menu” (page 103).  
For time code and user bit settings, see pages 62 to 65.  
2 ADVANCE button  
When setting time code and user bit values, or at menu  
setting, press this button to increment the digit that has  
On how to use the ADVANCE button for menu settings, see  
“Setting on the VCR Section —VCR Menu” (page 103).  
Chapter 1 Overview  
19  
Location and Function of Parts  
3 SHIFT button  
Note  
When setting time code and user bit values, or at menu  
setting, keep pressing this button to select a digit. The  
selected digit will start blinking.  
Set this switch ON when using the freeze mix  
function.  
In other case, keep pressing this button to show the  
date (when the DISPLAY switch (6 on page 15) is  
set to U-BIT) and time (when the DISPLAY switch is  
set to TC) instead of time value.  
8 TC (time code) mode switch 2  
Sets the mode for advancing time code values when  
the TC mode switch 1 9 has been set to PRESET.  
F-RUN: The time code advances continuously  
whether or not the camcorder is recording. Use  
this setting to align the time code value with real  
time.  
For time code and user bit settings, see pages 62 to 65.  
On how to use the SHIFT button for menu settings, see  
“Setting on the VCR Section —VCR Menu” (page 103).  
SET: Use this setting to set the time code or user bit  
value.  
R-RUN: The time code value advances only during  
recording. Use this setting to have consecutive  
recordings on the tape.  
4 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) (audio recording  
level adjustments manual/auto selection for  
channels 1 and 2) switches  
These select the audio recording level adjustment  
method.  
Note for the DSR-500WSL  
There are two time code frame modes: drop-frame  
(DF) mode and non drop-frame (NDF) mode. This  
product is shipped with drop-frame mode selected.  
AUTO: Use the AGC (automatic gain control) circuit  
to automatically adjust the audio level.  
MAN(MANUAL): Enables users to manually adjust  
the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs (7 on  
page 16) for each channel. Select AUTO if excess  
input levels are likely to occur.  
For details on switching between drop-frame mode and non  
drop-frame mode, see “Selecting Frame Mode (DF/NDF)  
for Time Code (for DSR-500WSL Only) —Menu 204” (page  
105).  
5 AUDIO IN (CH-1/CH-2) (audio input selection  
for channels 1 and 2) switches  
For details on drop-frame mode and non drop-frame mode,  
see “Drop-frame mode (for DSR-500WSL only)” on page  
65.  
These select the input signals to channels 1 and 2.  
FRONT: Signals from the microphone connected to  
the MIC IN +48 V connector (1 on page 12).  
VJ MIC: Signals from the remote control unit with  
microphone connected to the REMOTE connector  
2 (qa on page 24).  
WRR: Signals from the WRR-855A synthesized  
tuner connected to the WRR connector (6 on  
page 26) via the CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor.  
REAR: Signals from a microphone or external  
equipment connected to the AUDIO IN (CH-1/  
CH-2) connectors (5 on page 26).  
9 TC (time code) mode switch 1  
Selects between resetting the time code value or  
continuing from the time code value at the end of the  
previous recording.  
PRESET: This starts recording time code values on  
the tape from the currently set value.  
REGEN: During back space editing, this reads the  
tape’s current time code value and sets the time  
code to record starting from that value. The time  
code value is advanced in R-RUN mode  
regardless of the setting on TC mode switch 2 8.  
DATE/TIME: This synchronizes the time code to  
the real time clock set in the VCR menu (see page  
105). In this case the time code of the DSR-  
500WSL is recorded in DF (drop-frame mode).  
6 Lithium battery compartment  
Insert the supplied CR2032 Lithium Battery.  
On how to fit the lithium battery, see page 31.  
7 MONITOR OUT (monitor output)  
CHARACTER switch  
Set ON to superimpose text information on the  
monitor output.  
20  
Chapter 1 Overview  
Note  
Note  
If the ClipLink function is set to on (meaning ClipLink  
shooting is allowed) in menu 211 and CONT is  
displayed in the display window, regardless of the  
setting of this switch, the time code generator  
automatically enters the REGEN mode at recording.  
(The ClipLink function is set to OFF at factory.) When  
you will not perform ClipLink shooting, set the  
ClipLink function to oFF (see page 109).  
When restart recording without pressing this button,  
the pre-recorded ClipLink log data and Index Pictures  
are deleted.  
For details , see “ClipLink Shooting” (page 68).  
qa MONITOR SELECT (audio monitor selection)  
switch  
Selects audio output via the speaker (0 on page 18) or  
earphone.  
0 ClipLink CONTINUE button  
CH-1: Channel 1 audio  
MIX: Mixed audio (channels 1 and 2)  
CH-2: Channel 2 audio  
When restart ClipLink shooting, press this button to  
add the new clip at the end of the recorded clips.  
EXT: The sound selected by an external VCR  
connected to the VTR connector (0 on page 26)  
Left side  
1 REC TIME switch  
2 SKIN DTL switch  
3 EXT VTR OUTPUT switch  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
DATE/TIME  
SET  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
R-RUN  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
4 VTR TRIGGER switch  
5 FRONT MIC LOW CUT switch  
6 SETUP switch  
7 HYPER GAIN switch  
8 SKIN DTL SET button  
9 TTL RESET button  
1 REC (recording) TIME switch  
OFF: Switches off the recording time display.  
If, however, in advanced menu page 6 you set the  
time code display item (TC IND) to ON (see page  
90), then the VCR time data (time code, counter,  
or user bit value) is displayed.  
Selects the recording time indication in the viewfinder.  
TTL (TOTAL): Displays the total recording time.  
The total recording time is not reset even when  
you stop the VCR and power off the camcorder,  
for example, to replace the battery pack.  
DUR (DURATION): Displays the recording time of  
the current cut.  
(Continued)  
Chapter 1 Overview  
21  
Location and Function of Parts  
7 HYPER GAIN switch  
Note  
Setting this switch to the ON position increases the  
gain by a factor of about 60 or 120 with respect to 0  
dB (a 30 or 36 dB increase by electronic amplification  
and a 6 dB increase for DPR, bringing about a total  
gain increase of 36 or 42 dB).  
When this switch is in ON position, the indication  
“HYPER” appears in the viewfinder, and the GAIN  
UP indicator in the viewfinder also lights.  
When finished shooting, return this switch to OFF  
position. The HYPER indication disappears and the  
GAIN UP indicator goes out.  
The recording time displayed when this switch is set to  
TTL or DUR is obtained by counting the duration of  
the internal reference signal input to the camcorder.  
The value may not agree exactly with the value  
derived from the time code values. Furthermore, the  
value displayed may not be correct when another  
manufacture’s VCR is connected to the camcorder.  
2 SKIN DTL (skin detail) switch  
Set this switch ON to use the skin detail correction  
function.  
Note  
For details, see “Skin Detail Correction” (page 123).  
Increasing the gain with this switch reduces the  
horizontal resolution by approx. 50%.  
3 EXT VTR OUTPUT switch  
Depending on the external VCR connected to the VTR  
connector (0 on page 26), this switches the video  
signal output to the VCR.  
COMPONENT/VBS: Component/composite video  
signal  
8 SKIN DTL (skin detail ) SET button  
Press this button with the SKIN DTL switch 2 has  
been set to ON to display the area detect cursor on  
viewfinder screen. Place the cursor on the target and  
press this button to perform skin detail correction.  
Y/C: S-video signal  
For details, see “Skin Detail Correction” (page 123).  
4 VTR TRIGGER switch  
Sets the function of the VTR button on the camcorder  
or lens when a VCR is connected to the VTR  
connector (0 on page 26).  
PARALLEL: Operates both internal and external  
VCRs.  
9 TTL (total) RESET button  
Pressing this button resets the total recording time  
(TTL selection) to 0.  
INT ONLY: Operates the internal VCR only.  
External VCR operation is performed locally.  
EXT ONLY: Operates the external VCR only.  
5 FRONT MIC LOW CUT switch  
Set this switch to ON to insert a high-pass filter in the  
microphone circuit, reducing wind noise.  
Normally leave the switch in the OFF position.  
6 SETUP switch  
Use this switch to select the camcorder setup method.  
FILE: Set up using setup files and the setup menu.  
STD: Set up using the setup menu.Setup file data is  
not displayed.  
22  
Chapter 1 Overview  
Left and Upper View  
Front section  
1 Shoulder strap fitting  
2 Attachment shoe for large viewfinder  
3 Accessory fitting shoe and screw hole  
4 Viewfinder left-to-right positioning ring  
5 Viewfinder fitting shoe  
6 REMOTE connector 1  
7 Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob  
8 Fitting for optional microphone holder  
9 Video light connector  
0 LENS connector  
qa VIDEO OUT connector  
qs REMOTE connector 2  
If you connect the optional cable (Sony part number:  
1-790-779-11) to this connector, you can control the  
zoom using the optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit  
(equipped with microphone and monitor), even if you  
use the conventional lens.  
1 Shoulder strap fitting  
To use the supplied shoulder strap, fix one end here  
and the other end to the right side.(See page 38.)  
2 Attachment shoe for large viewfinder  
This allows you to attach the optional electronic  
viewfinder. (See page 35.)  
For details, consult your Sony dealer.  
Note  
3 Accessory fitting shoe and screw hole  
Attach optional video lights or other accessories here.  
(See page 37.)  
The RM-81 cannot be connected.  
7 Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob  
Loosen this knob to adjust the front-to-back position of  
the viewfinder. (See page 34.)  
4 Viewfinder left-to-right position fixing ring  
Loosen this ring to adjust the left-to-right position of  
the viewfinder. (See page 34.)  
8 Fitting for optional microphone holder  
You can fit an optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder  
here. (See page 36.)  
5 Viewfinder fitting shoe  
Fix the DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder here. (See page  
34.)  
9 Video light connector  
6 REMOTE connector 1 (mini-jack)  
Connect the RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit to enable  
remote operation of the ClipLink function.  
A video light with a maximum power consumption of  
30 W such as the Anton Bauer Ultralight 2 or  
equivalent can be connected. (See page 37.)  
Chapter 1 Overview  
23  
Location and Function of Parts  
0 LENS connector (12-pin)  
Connect the lens cable.  
You can also connect the RM-VJ1 Remote Control  
Unit (equipped with microphone and monitor.)  
Notes  
qa VIDEO OUT connector (BNC)  
This outputs the video signal captured by the  
camcorder.  
• EZ mode cannot be used if the RM-M7G is  
connected to the camcorder.  
• Be sure to turn off the power of the camcorder before  
connecting the RM-M7G/VJ1.  
qs REMOTE connector 2 (10-pin)  
• Be sure to turn off the power of the camcorder before  
disconnecting the equipment connected to this  
connector. Otherwise, the camcorder will not work  
properly.  
Connect the optional RM-M7G Remote Control Unit  
to this connector. Set the CAMERA SELECT switch  
on the bottom of RM-M7G to 1.  
Rear section  
1 Cassette holder  
2 GEN LOCK IN/VIDEO IN connector (When  
the optional DSBK-501/501P is fitted)  
3 TC IN connector  
4 TC OUT connector  
5 S VIDEO OUT connector  
6 MONITOR OUT connector  
7 AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2 connectors  
VIDEO IN: When the optional DSBK-501/501P  
Analog Composite Input Board is fitted to the  
camcorder, you can input the analog video signals  
(VBS) to this connector.  
1 Cassette holder  
Power the camcorder and press the EJECT button to  
open the lid. Insert the cassette and close the lid by  
pressing the indication “PUSH”.  
3 TC IN (time code input) connector (BNC)  
Input an external signal for synchronizing the built-in  
time code generator.Use an SMPTE (DSR-500WSL)  
or EBU (DSR-500WSPL) time code signal.  
2 GEN LOCK IN (gen lock video input)/VIDEO  
IN (video input) connector (When the optional  
DSBK-501/501P is fitted) (BNC)  
GEN LOCK IN: When synchronizing the camcorder  
to an external signal, input a reference video  
signal (VBS or BS). (See page 81.)  
24  
Chapter 1 Overview  
on an external VCR or video monitor.  
Note  
Use a jitterless LTC signal.Using an LTC signal  
reproduced by other equipment may cause the  
camcorder to malfunction.  
6 MONITOR OUT (output) connector  
Outputs the image being shot or played back as  
composite video signals.Connect to the video input  
connector on an external VCR or video monitor.  
4 TC OUT (time code output) connector (BNC)  
This outputs time code signals from the built-in time  
code generator.When a time code signal is input to the  
TC IN connector (3 on page 24), this output signal is  
synchronized to it.  
Note  
The output signal from this connector may discontinue  
when switching the operation between recording and  
playback.Do not use as a reference video signal for  
external equipment.  
For details about time code, see “Setting Time Values” on  
page 62.  
7 AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2 (audio output channel  
1 and 2) connectors (phono jacks)  
These output the sound being recorded or played back.  
Connect to a stereo amplifier or video monitor’s audio  
input connectors.  
5 S VIDEO OUT (S-video output) connector (DIN  
4-pin)  
This outputs the image being shot or played back as S-  
video signals.Connect to the S-video input connector  
Rear and Bottom  
1 TALLY indicator  
2 TALLY switch  
3 Battery attachment  
interface  
6 WRR connector  
4 DC IN connector  
7 Cable clamp  
8 DV OUT connector  
5 AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2  
connectors and input  
selection switches  
9 DC OUT connector  
0 VTR connector  
qa BREAKER button  
1 TALLY (back tally)indicator (red)  
2 TALLY switch  
This indicator lights during recording.It will not light if  
the TALLY switch 2 is set to OFF.This indicator also  
blinks to indicate warnings in the same manner as the  
REC/TALLY indicator in the viewfinder.  
Set this switch to ON to activate the TALLY indicator  
1 function.  
For details, see “Warning System” on page 127.  
Chapter 1 Overview  
25  
Location and Function of Parts  
3 Battery attachment interface  
Attach a battery pack or an AC-DN1/DN2A, AC  
Adaptor.When using the WRR-855A synthesized tuner  
(for wireless microphones), attach the CA-WR855  
Camera Adaptor here.  
i.LINK  
cable (DV  
connecting  
cable)  
Binding  
tie  
For information about fitting a battery pack or an AC  
adaptor, see “Power Supply” (page 46). For information  
about attaching a synthesized tuner, see “Connecting to  
Audio System” (page 39).  
4 DC IN (DC power input) connector (XLR 4-pin,  
male)  
To use the camcorder with an AC power supply,  
connect an optional AC-550/550CE or CMA-8A/  
8ACE AC Adaptor.  
8 DV OUT connector (6-pin)  
Connect to the DV input connector of an external  
VCR.  
Notes  
• This connector will not work as an input connector.  
• When an external equipment, such as VCR, is  
connected to this connector, the ClipLink and the  
audio fade-in/fade-out function during recording will  
not work.  
5 AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 (audio input channel 1  
and 2) connectors (XLR 3-pin, female) and input  
selection switches  
Connect a microphone or other external audio  
equipment.Set the input selection switches as  
shown below according to the microphone or  
equipment.  
9 DC OUT (DC power output) connector (4-pin,  
female)  
MIC+48V ON (right position): For connecting to a  
This connector supplies power for a WRR-810A/860A  
UHF Portable Tuner.  
48-V microphone  
Note  
0 VTR connector (26-pin, male)  
If this position is selected for a microphone other than  
48-V microphone, the microphone may be damaged.  
Connect an external VCR.  
Notes  
MIC (center position): For connecting any  
microphone other than 48-V microphone  
LINE (left position): For connecting an external  
audio signal source such as a stereo amplifier.  
• This connector always outputs the signals from the  
camera. It is impossible to output the playback video  
of the internal VCR.  
• A camera control unit (CCU) cannot be connected to  
this connector.  
6 WRR (synthesized tuner) connector (7-pin)  
Insert the WRR-855A synthesized tuner into the CA-  
WR855 Camera Adaptor and connect the CA-WR855  
here.  
• The image size on the viewfinder or on the screen of  
the RM-VJ1 will not switched automatically, even if  
the aspect ratio (16:9/4:3) of the return signal, input  
from an external VCR, is switched.  
For information about attaching a synthesized tuner, see  
“Connecting to Audio System” (page 39)  
qa BREAKER (breaker reset) button  
If an excessive current flows in the internal circuits,  
the internal circuit breaker shuts off the power  
supply.Push this button after eliminating the cause of  
the excessive current.  
7 Cable clamp  
Fasten an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) to the  
clamp using the supplied binding tie so that the plug is  
not pulled out.  
26  
Chapter 1 Overview  
VCL-918BY Zoom Lens (not supplied)  
When using a lens other than VCL-918BY, see page 121  
(“Designating the lens”).  
1 Iris ring  
5 M button  
6 F.B adjustment ring  
and F.B fixing screw  
2 Zoom ring  
7 MACRO ring  
3 Focus ring  
8 ZOOM selector  
9 Zoom remote control  
connector  
4 Lens hood  
0 Lens connector  
qd Instant automatic iris adjustment  
button  
qa RET button  
qf IRIS selector  
qg Motorized zoom lever  
qs VTR button  
Chapter 1 Overview  
27  
Location and Function of Parts  
1 Iris ring  
0 Lens connector (12-pin)  
For manual iris control, set the IRIS selector to the  
“M” position, and turn this ring.  
Connect to the LENS connector (9 on page 24) of the  
camcorder.  
2 Zoom ring  
qa RET (return) button  
For direct manual zoom control, set the ZOOM  
selector to the “MANU.” position, and turn this ring.  
This allows you to check the video signal as follows.  
When the internal VCR is in recording pause mode,  
press this button to review the last few seconds of the  
recording in the viewfinder (recording review). When  
an external VCR is connected, pressing this button  
connects the E-E video signal1) from the external VCR  
to the viewfinder while the internal VCR is recording  
or no tape is inserted in the internal VCR.  
3 Focus ring  
Turn this ring to focus the lens on the subject.  
4 Lens hood  
5 M (close-up) button  
For close-up work, turn the MACRO ring while  
holding this button down. (See page 121.)  
For details, see “Playback — Checking Recorded Contents”  
(page 61).  
qs VTR button  
6 F.B (flange focal length) adjustment ring and  
F.B (flange focal length) fixing knob  
This button starts and stops recording on the  
VCR.Press it once to start recording, and once more to  
stop.  
F.B (flange focal length) adjustment ring : To  
adjust the flange focal length, loosen the F.B  
fixing knob, then turn the ring.(See page 119.)  
F.B (flange focal length) fixing knob: Fixes the F.B  
adjustment ring.  
qd Instant automatic iris adjustment button  
While using manual iris control, press this button to  
switch temporarily to the automatic iris control  
setting.The automatic setting is maintained as long as  
you hold the button down.  
7 MACRO (close-up) ring  
For close-up, turn this ring while holding the M button  
down. (See page 121.)  
qf IRIS selector  
This selects the mode of iris operation.(See page 14.)  
A (automatic): automatic iris  
M (manual): manual iris  
8 ZOOM selector  
This selects the mode of zoom operation.  
SERVO: power zoom  
MANU. (manual): manual zoom  
qg Motorized zoom lever  
Use this to carry out a power zoom. Pressing the lever  
harder increases the zoom speed.  
W end: zoom toward wide angle  
T end: zoom toward telephoto  
9 Zoom remote control connector (8-pin)  
Connect the optional LO-26 lens remote control unit  
for remote control of zooming.  
When connecting the optional lens cable (Sony  
product number: 1-790-779-11) to this connector, you  
can control the zoom from the RM-VJ1 Remote  
Control Unit (equipped with microphone and monitor).  
(See page 41.)  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) E-E video signal: “electric-to-electric” video  
signal.This is the input video signal which has passed  
through internal electrical circuits, but has not been  
converted to a magnetic signal.  
28  
Chapter 1 Overview  
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder  
Note  
in accordance with the aspect ratio selected on the  
camera or camcorder.  
You can switch the scan size of the DXF-801/801CE  
4 TAKE/TALLY indicator  
TALLY  
TAKE REC BATT  
5 BATT indicator  
6 REC/TALLY indicators  
7 GAIN UP indicator  
1 Eyepiece focusing knob  
SHUTTER  
GAIN UP  
2 Stopper  
8 SHUTTER indicator  
Microphone holding screw  
Microphone holder  
Microphone  
Eye cup  
9 PEAKING control  
0 CONTRAST control  
qa Tally lamp  
qs BRIGHT control  
qd Eyepiece release catch  
qf TALLY switch  
qg DISPLAY switch  
3 LIGHT switch and light  
HIGH LOW OFF  
qh Viewfinder connector  
LIGHT  
1 Eyepiece focusing knob  
4 TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange)  
Turn this to adjust the viewfinder focus to match your  
eyesight. (See page 118.)  
When using the ClipLink function while shooting, this  
indicator lights when the TAKE button (6 on page  
12) has been pressed to set a Mark IN point and goes  
out when a Mark OUT point is set.  
2 Stopper  
Lift up when detaching the viewfinder (See page 34).  
5 BATT (battery) indicator (red)  
This indicates when the battery capacity is low.  
3 LIGHT switch and light  
The light lights the lens and the switch controls the  
light as follows.  
HIGH/LOW: Turn the light on and control the  
brightness.  
OFF: Turns the light off.  
Chapter 1 Overview  
29  
Location and Function of Parts  
6 REC/TALLY (recording/tally) indicators (red)  
• From the time when you press the VTR button (9 on  
page 12 and qs on page 28) on the lens (not  
supplied) or camcorder, this flashes until recording  
starts, then stays on continuously during recording.  
• This is also used to indicate a fault. (See page 127.)  
• The lower indicator can be disabled by menu setting.  
(See page 89.)  
qg DISPLAY switch  
Set this switch to OFF when you want to remove the  
character data from the viewfinder and the monitor  
connected to the MONITOR OUT connector.  
However, items which are set to OFF in advanced  
menu page 5 and page 6 are not displayed even when  
this switch is set to ON.  
qh Viewfinder connector (20-pin)  
7 GAIN UP indicator (orange)  
Connect this to the VF connector (2 on page 12).  
This lights when the gain is 3 dB or more.  
8 SHUTTER indicator (red)  
This lights when the SHUTTER switch (5 on page  
12) is in the ON position. (If the EVS is selected, the  
indicator will not light.)  
9 PEAKING control  
This adjusts the outline intensity of the viewfinder  
image. (See page 118.)  
0 CONTRAST control  
This adjusts the contrast of the viewfinder image. (See  
page 118.)  
qa Tally lamp  
When the TALLY switch qf is in the HIGH or LOW  
position, this operates in the same way as the REC/  
TALLY indicators 6.  
qs BRIGHT (brightness) control  
This adjusts the brightness of the viewfinder image.  
(See page 118.)  
qd Eyepiece release catch  
To view the viewfinder screen directly, press this  
catch, and hinge up the eyepiece.  
qf TALLY switch  
When using the Tally lamp qa, this switch controls it  
as follows.  
HIGH/LOW: Turn the light on and control the  
brightness.  
OFF: Turns the light off.  
30  
Chapter 1 Overview  
Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery  
The camcorder uses a lithium battery to retain stored  
Inserting or replacing the lithium battery  
data. When using the camcorder for the first time, be  
sure to insert the supplied lithium battery  
(CR2032). The camcorder will not operate correctly  
without this lithium battery.  
Notes  
• Carefully read the instructions for inserting and  
replacing the lithium battery. Lithium batteries may  
explode if misused.  
• Use only CR2032 Lithium Batteries. Other types of  
lithium batteries may come loose when the camcorder  
is moved. If you have difficulty finding CR2032  
Lithium Batteries, contact your Sony dealer.  
Lifetime of the lithium battery  
When the lithium battery’s voltage falls, the lithium  
backup battery warning  
appears in the display  
Li  
window. If this warning appears, replace the lithium  
battery (CR2032) within three or four days.  
The lithium battery has an average service life of about  
two years, however operation with the optional DSBK-  
301A in ClipLink mode will shorten the lifetime until  
about one year.  
1 Turn the POWER switch on.  
2 Press down the catch at the top  
of the battery cover and open  
the cover.  
2
Catch  
Press and pull forward.  
LI  
LITHIUM BATT  
Battery cover  
1
POWER switch  
3Take out the lithium battery.  
Press down and pull out toward you.  
Lithium battery  
4 Reverse step 3 to insert a  
replacement lithium battery.  
Make sure that the + symbol  
on the battery is facing you.  
5 Close the battery cover.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
31  
Fitting the Lens  
Note  
Be sure to turn off the power before fitting the lens.  
1 Remove the retaining rubber  
which prevents the lens mount  
from coming loose, then raise  
the lens fixing lever, and  
Retaining rubber  
remove the lens mount cap.  
Lens fixing lever  
Lens mount cap  
2 With the lens fixing lever  
turned fully counterclockwise,  
push in the lens, aligning the  
projection on the lens with the  
cutout on the camcorder.  
Align and push in.  
3 Supporting the lens, turn the  
lens fixing lever fully  
clockwise. Replace the  
retaining rubber on the lens  
mount.  
32  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Fitting optional filters  
Loosen the lens hood fixing knob to remove the lens  
hood, then attach the filter.  
Remove lens hood  
Lens hood fixing  
knob  
Filter (optional)  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
33  
Using Accessories  
Using the Viewfinder  
Removing the viewfinder  
VF connector  
1 Pull the viewfinder plug out of  
the VF connector on the front.  
2 Loosen the viewfinder left-to-  
right position fixing ring, then  
pulling up the retaining catch,  
slide the viewfinder out.  
Retaining catch  
Viewfinder left-to-right  
position fixing ring  
To fit the viewfinder  
Reverse the removal procedure. (You need not hold  
the retaining catch up.)  
Adjusting the viewfinder position  
To adjust the viewfinder left-to-right position, loosen  
the viewfinder left-to-right fixing ring, and to adjust  
the front-to-back position loosen the viewfinder front-  
to-back position locking knob.  
Left eye adaptor  
By fitting a left eye adaptor, you can use the  
camcorder with your left eye to the viewfinder.  
Viewfinder left-to-right  
Viewfinder front-to-back  
position locking knob  
position fixing ring  
Note  
You cannot stow the camcorder with a left eye adaptor  
attached in the carrying case.  
For details, consult your Sony dealer.  
34  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Fitting the 4-inch/5-inch Electronic Viewfinder  
You can fit the optional DXF-51 (5-inch)/DXF-41 (4-inch) Electronic Viewfinder. To fit, the following parts are  
required.  
Required parts to fit  
Name  
VF Cable  
Part No.  
Accessory Shoe Kit  
A-8274-968-B  
Adaptor cable (8-pin y 20-pin) 1-783-665-11  
(DXF-41 only)  
Shoe*  
Stopper  
screw*  
Fixing ring  
Guide  
For details, consult your Sony dealer.  
8-pin  
How to fit  
Remove the cover of the grip and attach the shoe and  
stopper screw (accessory shoe kit).  
20-pin  
Adaptor cable (8-pin y 20-pin)  
• Supplied with the Accessory Shoe Kit  
Fitting to a Tripod  
First fit the VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor to the tripod, then mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor.  
Note  
After removing the camcorder, if the tripod adaptor pin  
has not returned to its original position, hold down the  
red button and move the lever in the direction of the  
arrow to return the pin to its original position. It is not  
possible to mount a camcorder with the pin left out.  
Pin  
VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor  
Side the camcorder forward  
along the slot, until it clicks  
firmly into place.  
Tripod  
Removal  
Hold down the red button  
and pull the lever in the  
direction of the arrow.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
35  
Using Accessories  
Using an Optional Microphone  
To use a long microphone such as the optional ECM-670/672, fit an optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder to the  
camcorder, then mount the microphone in this holder.  
Fitting the optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder  
Remove the two retaining screws (M3 × 8) for the  
optional microphone holder, then use these screws to  
attach the CAC-12 Microphone Holder.  
Screws removed from the  
camcorder  
CAC-12  
Fitting an optional microphone  
Use the following procedure to attach an optional  
ECM-670 Microphone.  
Loosen the screw of the CAC-12  
Microphone Holder, then open the  
holder and replace the microphone  
adaptor with the one supplied with  
the ECM-670 Microphone.  
Microphone adaptor  
Fitting optional microphones (operable with a  
48 V supply) other than the ECM-670  
Use the same fitting procedure as for the ECM-670,  
but note the following differences with respect to the  
microphone adaptor.  
ECM-672: no microphone adaptor required.  
Slender microphones (19 mm (3/4 inch) diameter):  
use the microphone adaptor supplied with the  
CAC-12.  
36  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Notes  
Using a Video Light  
• Do not use the video light with power consumption of  
over 30 W.  
• The brightness or color temperature of the light will  
change when the supplied voltage is under 12 V  
(through the DC IN connector or the battery pack).  
For the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL, you can use the  
Anton Bauer Ultralight 2 or equivalent. Use a video  
light powered by 12 V with maximum power  
consumption of 30 W.  
• If you connect the video light to the video light  
connector on the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL (page 23)  
and set the LIGHT switch to AUTO (page 13), you  
can turn the light on and off automatically as you  
start and stop VCR operation.  
• The output of the video light connector on the DSR-  
500WSL/500WSPL is controlled to 12 V even when  
the camcorder is supplied with 12 V or more power  
(through the DC IN connector or battery pack). The  
brightness or color temperature of the light will not  
change according to voltage increase.  
To fit the video light  
Fit the video light to the camcorder grip and connect  
the video light cable to the video light connector.  
When using a video light with a long cable  
You can pass a part of the cable through the camcorder  
grip.  
Projection B  
Projection A  
1 Remove the cover of the camcorder  
grip and break off projection A (see  
the figure).  
2 Pass the cable through the grip as  
shown in the figure and replace the  
cover.  
When using equipment other than the  
camcorder for power supply  
Break off projections A and B on the camcorder. (See  
step 1 of the previous section “When using a video  
light with a long cable”.) Insert the cable into the grip  
from the front hole and take out from the rear hole as  
shown in the figure.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
37  
Using Accessories  
Fitting the Shoulder Strap  
This section describes the procedure for fitting the supplied shoulder strap to the camcorder.  
1 Fit one of the clips to a  
shoulder strap fitting.  
Pull up the strap to  
lock the fitting.  
2 Fit the other clip to the  
shoulder strap fitting on the  
other side of the grip in the  
same way.  
Removing the shoulder strap  
Open the cover of the clip and move  
the clip downwards to release it  
from the fitting.  
38  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Connecting to Audio System  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL is able to record sound not only from the microphone attached but also from a  
wireless microphone or an external audio system.  
Using a wireless microphone system  
For details on using the wireless microphone system, see the  
operating instructions for the microphone and tuner.  
You can use the wireless microphone system  
including a WRT-810A/830A UHF Wireless  
Microphone and a WRR-810A/855A/860A UHF  
synthesized tuner to record sound.  
To connect a WRR-855A  
1 Open the cover of the WRR  
connector.  
WRR connector  
WRR  
2 Insert the WRP-855A into the  
CA-WR855.  
Fasten the screws (supplied with  
the WRR-855A).  
3 Fit the attachment plate on the  
rear side of the CA-WR855 to  
the V-groove on the battery  
attachment interface, and then  
slide the CA-WR855 down  
until it connects to the WRR  
connector.  
CA-WR855  
4 Set one of the AUDIO IN (CH-  
1/CH-2) switches to WRR.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
39  
Using Accessories  
To connect a WRR-810A/860A  
Attach the WRR tuner fitting (not supplied) (Part No.  
A-8278-057-A) to the rear of the camcorder as shown  
in the following figure.  
2,3  
4
5
1 4  
WRR-810A/860A  
1 Pass a screwdriver through the holes and tighten  
4 Attach the holder kit (two fittings and four screws,  
supplied with the tuner) to the WRR tuner fitting  
(one for the upper position and the other for the  
lower position).  
the screws.  
2 Loosen the adjustment screws.  
3 Adjust the metal fitting position for a battery  
pack to be attached, and tighten the adjustment  
screws to fix its position.  
5 Mount the tuner on the WRR tuner fitting.  
For details about the WRR tuner fitting (Part No. A-8278-  
057-A), contact your Sony dealer.  
Using an external audio system  
Connect an audio mixer or other external audio system  
component to the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connector as  
shown below.  
AUDIO IN (CH-1/CH-2) switches: Set to REAR.  
CH-1 CH-2  
AUDIO IN  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
REAR  
Input selection switch: Set to LINE.  
+48V ON  
LINE  
MIC  
AUDIO IN  
CH-1/CH-2  
To audio mixer, etc.  
40  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
When using conventional lens  
Using the Optional RM-VJ1  
Remote Control Unit (Equipped  
With Microphone And Monitor)  
When using conventional lens, such as VCL-918BY,  
you can control the zoom if you use the optional lens  
cable (Sony product number: 1-790-779-11). For  
details on the cable, consult your Sony dealer.  
You can control the camcorder while watching the  
image on the LCD screen of the Remote Control Unit  
if you connect the RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit to the  
camcorder.  
The connection for controlling the zoom when using conventional lens  
Lens cable  
REMOTE1  
(1-790-779-11)  
RM-VJ1 Remote  
control unit (equipped  
with microphone and  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
monitor)  
REMOTE2  
REMOTE 2  
Remote control connector  
(8-pin) for controlling the  
zoom on the bottom of the  
lens grip  
RM-VJ1  
Remote  
control unit  
(equipped  
with  
CCA-7-7A cable  
microphone  
and monitor)  
Note  
Be sure to use the CCA-7-7A Cable only when  
connecting the RM-VJ1.  
When using lens designed for the power  
zoom and focus  
Use the following lens when controlling the zoom and  
focus from the RM-VJ1:  
Fujinon: A19X8.7 BRD-S28  
A19X8.7 BERD-S28 (with the extender)  
A19X8.7 BRRD-S28 (with the ratio  
converter)  
Canon: YJ18X9B KAS-SS12  
YJ18X9B IAS-SS12 (with the extender)  
For details on these lens or other lens designated for  
the power zoom and focus, consult Fujinon or Canon  
dealer.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
41  
Using Accessories  
Using the RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit  
You can control the camcorder using the supplied RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit.  
4 Velcro  
Location and Function of Parts  
When using the unit on the panning rod of the tripod,  
this is used to attach the unit to the panning rod  
mounting bracket (supplied with RM-LG1).  
1 Cable with mini-plug  
5 Cable clamp groove  
When the cable 1 is passed underneath the unit, the  
cable can be placed in this groove.  
1
2
2 Switches 1 and 2  
4 Velcro  
Attaching the RM-LG1  
Use the binding ties and panning rod mounting bracket  
to attach the unit to a panning rod.  
3 Switch name  
displays  
5 Cable clamp  
groove  
Panning rod mounting bracket  
Velcro  
1 Cable with mini-plug  
Connect to the REMOTE connector 1 (5 on page 23)  
on the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL.  
2 Switches 1 and 2  
You can assign functions to these switches using the  
advanced menu page 3 (see page 88) of the DSR-  
500WSL/500WSPL.  
Each can be used as the following types of switch:  
VTR switch, MARK switch, CUE switch, or NG  
switch.  
Binding ties  
Panning rod  
At the shipping of the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL,  
switch 1 is set as the VTR switch and switch 2 is set as  
the MARK switch.  
Removing the RM-LG1  
Lift up the tab to loosen the binding ties.  
For information about the advanced menu and function of  
each switch, see “Location and Function of Parts” on page  
12 and “Viewfinder Advanced Menu” on page 86.  
3 Switch name displays  
Stickers (supplied with RM-LG1) can be attached here  
to indicate which functions are assigned to the  
switches 1 and 2 2.  
42  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Using the Optional LC-DS500 Carrying Case  
For details on using the carrying case, refer to the instruction manual supplied with the carrying case.  
For detail on the time that the carrying case will appear on the market, consult your Sony dealer.  
Using the Optional LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case  
For details on using the soft carrying case, refer to the instruction manual supplied with the soft carrying case.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
43  
Connections  
Connecting a Number of Camcorders  
When using two or more synchronized camcorders,  
connect an external sync signal to the GEN LOCK IN  
connector, supplying a VBS or BS signal. The  
camcorder will then operate synchronized to this  
signal.  
Note  
When you fit the optional DSBK-501/501P, set the  
VIDEO IN to CAM using the basic menu page 4. (See  
page 81.)  
You can adjust the synchronization using the basic  
menu. (See page 81.)  
BNC cable  
Example 1: Camcorder 2 synchronized  
to the signal from camcorder 1  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
Camcorder 2  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
Camcorder 1  
Portable VCR  
GEN LOCK IN  
VTR  
VIDEO OUT  
VIDEO OUT  
To camera  
connector  
To video input  
connector  
CCZ-A Camera Cable  
BNC cable  
Example 2: Camcorders 1 and 2 synchronized to the signal from a special effects unit or similar  
Camcorder 1  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
BNC cable  
BNC cable  
Video input connector  
VIDEO OUT  
Sync signal output  
connector  
GEN LOCK IN  
Special effects  
unit or similar  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
Camcorder 2  
Video input connector  
BNC cable  
BNC cable  
VIDEO OUT  
Sync signal output  
connector  
GEN LOCK IN  
44  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Connecting the DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette Recorder (Optional  
DSBK-140 Is Required)  
You can do cut editing and digital dubbing when connecting the DSR-70/70P with fitting the optional DSBK-140,  
using an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable).  
DSR-70/70P Digital  
Videocassette Recorder  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
DV OUT  
DV IN  
i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable)  
• When dubbing tapes using the DSR-70/70P, a  
continuous recorded section of approximately five  
seconds is required before the recording start point. It  
is recommended to record beforehand color bars or a  
similar signal at the start point of the source tape to  
be dubbed on this unit.  
Notes  
• The camcorder does not support the noiseless  
function of the various speed playback.  
• The slow playback will be automatically released to  
protect the tape if the slow playback lasts for about  
one minute.  
Connecting an External VCR  
You can use a following external VCR connected to  
the VTR connector (26-pin) or the DV OUT connector  
for recording.  
Notes  
• There is no power supply connection between the  
camcorder and VCR. Provide separate power  
supplies.  
• The VTR connector always outputs the signals from  
the camera (impossible to output the playback video  
of the internal VCR), and disallows the CCU  
connection.  
• When no VCR is connected to the VTR connector  
(26-pin), it does not supply signals.  
Connecting cable  
Connector  
VCR  
VTR connector  
CCZ-A Camera  
cable (max. length  
10 m (33 ft.))  
BVW-50/50P/35/  
35P (portable)  
VTR connector  
VO-8800/6800  
(U-matic)  
CCZQ-A Camera  
cable (max. length  
10 m (33 ft.))  
DV OUT  
connector  
Digital  
i.LINK cable (DV  
connecting cable)  
(max. length  
Videocassette  
Recorder DSR-  
20/20P/70/70P/  
2000/2000P, etc.  
4.5 m (14 ft.))  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
45  
Power Supply  
The following power supplies can be used with the  
camcorder.  
• AC power (The AC-550/550CE, AC-DN1/DN2A or  
CMA-8A/8ACE AC Adaptor is required.)  
• BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A lithium-ion  
battery pack  
• NP-1B Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L1Battery  
Adaptor is required.)  
• BP-90A Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L90 Battery  
Adaptor is required.)  
Alternatively, you can make combined use of internal  
and external batteries, by mounting one of the above  
batteries as an internal battery and connecting an  
external battery that can be a BP-90A contained in a  
DC-210 Battery Adaptor and connected to the DC IN  
connector of the camcorder.  
Using a BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A Battery Pack  
With a battery pack, the camcorder will operate  
continuously for the time shown below.  
BP-L40/L40A: Approx. 70 minutes  
BP-L60A: Approx. 140 minutes  
• At low temperatures, the usable time of battery packs  
decreases. When the ambient temperature is 0°C  
(32°F), usable time decreases by about 10%.  
(However, the usable time is affected by the power  
consumption of the connected camcorder and the  
usage status of the battery packs.) The usable time of  
battery packs increases if they are warmed to the  
room temperature (about 20°C (68°F)) before use at  
low temperatures.  
• If you use the BP-L40/L40A at temperatures of 0°C  
(32°F) or below, when power consumption of the  
camcorder and accessories is 40 W or higher (due to  
using a video light, for example), power may break  
after a short time (a few minutes). To increase the  
usable time, store the BP-L40/L40A in a warm place  
and power on the connected camcorder before the  
BP-L40/L40A cools down.  
BP-L90A: Approx. 230 minutes  
Before use, charge the battery pack with a BC-L50/  
L100/L100CE Battery Charger.  
Notes on using the battery pack  
• A warm battery pack may not be able to be fully  
recharged.  
• Even when fully charged, battery packs gradually  
lose their charge naturally. Use the battery packs as  
soon as possible after recharging.  
• To prolong the life of battery packs, store them in a  
cool place (about 20°C (68°F)), and charge in a place  
with an ambient temperature between 10°C and 30°C  
(50°F to 86°F).  
• Compared to the BP-L40/L40A, the BP-L60/L60A/  
L90/L90A offer better performance at low  
temperatures. The BP-L60/L60A/L90/L90A are  
recommended for use at low temperatures.  
• Before long-term storage, discharge the battery fully.  
This extends the battery’s life.  
• Carrying a spare battery pack is recommended.  
• It is recommended that the BP-L40/L40A be used at  
30 W or less. The specified capacity may not be  
obtained if it is connected to the camcorder with  
accessories which is operated at 30 W or higher,  
especially when the ambient temperature is low.  
The BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A is free from  
memory effect. There is no need to discharge it fully  
before recharging.  
Attaching the battery pack  
1 Press the battery pack against  
the rear of the camcorder,  
aligning the side line of the  
battery pack with the line on  
the camcorder.  
BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A  
LOCK  
Align these lines.  
46  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
2 Slide the battery pack down  
until its “LOCK” arrow points  
at the matching line on the  
camcorder.  
LOCK  
Matching line on the  
camcorder  
“LOCK” arrow  
Continuous operation when operating with  
only an internal battery pack  
Detaching the battery pack  
First, connect a fully charged external battery to the  
DC IN connector, then change the internal battery.  
Notes  
• Whenever an internal battery pack is loaded and an  
external battery is connected to the DC IN connector,  
the external battery is always used as the power  
source.  
Holding the button in, pull the  
battery pack up.  
LOCK  
• There may be some noise on the video or audio signal  
at the instant the power sources are switched.  
Avoiding breaks in operation due to dead  
batteries  
If you use both an internal battery pack and an external  
battery connected to the DC IN connector at the same  
time, you can avoid breaks in operation due to the dead  
batteries.  
When the external battery begins to fail and  
an internal battery pack is also used  
Remove the DC output cable of the external battery  
from the DC IN connector. The power source will  
switch to the internal battery pack.  
When the external battery begins to fail and  
an internal battery pack is not used  
First load the camcorder with a fully charged internal  
battery pack, then remove the DC output cable of the  
external battery from the DC IN connector. The power  
source will switch to the internal battery pack. To use  
an external battery again, connect a fully charged  
external battery to the DC IN connector before  
unloading the internal battery pack. The power source  
will switch to the external battery.  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
47  
Power Supply  
Using an AC Adaptor  
Using the Anton Bauer  
Intelligent Battery System  
Using a CMA-8A/8ACE AC Adaptor  
You can equip the camcorder with a special battery  
mount which the Anton Bauer Corporation has  
developed for its Intelligent Battery System and  
Ultralight System.  
When the camcorder is used with an Anton Bauer  
Digital Magnum series battery, the remaining battery  
capacity is shown numerically in the viewfinder  
display.  
Connect the camcorder to the AC power supply as  
shown in the following figure, and turn the POWER  
switch of the CMA-8A/8ACE to ON.  
To AC power source  
Contact your Sony dealer for more information.  
CMA-8A/8ACE  
AC Adaptor  
POWER switch: ON  
LOCK  
CCQX-3 cable  
CAMERA/CCU  
DC IN  
Using an AC-DN1/DN2A AC Adaptor  
Mount the AC-DN1/DN2A on the camcorder in the  
same way as a battery, then connect to the AC power  
source.  
To AC power  
source  
Note  
When power consumption of the camcorder and  
accessories is 38 W or higher, use the AC-DN2A AC  
adaptor (lower than 150 W).  
48  
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections  
Basic Procedure for Shooting  
RET button  
ZEBRA button  
Focusing ring  
POWER switch  
FILTER control  
VTR button  
Note  
1 Power the camcorder.  
Noise may appear in the EZ mode if the FILTER  
control is set to 2 or 4, and iris is set to fully open. In  
such case: when the FILTER control is set to 4, set it  
to 2; when set to 2, set it to 3.  
2 Set the FILTER control appropriately for the  
lighting conditions.  
Filter setting  
Lighting conditions  
3 Check the switch settings on the camcorder. (See  
1 (3200K)  
Studio halogen lighting (incandescent),  
sunrise and sunset.  
pages 12 to 26).  
2 (5600K + 1/8 Sunlight.  
ND)  
This setting includes a 1/8 neutral density  
filter (reducing the exposure by the  
If there is not sufficient time to check the  
camcorder settings, you can use “easy mode” by  
setting the EZ MODE button ON. The camcorder  
is automatically adjusted to standard settings, and  
the iris and the white balance are adjusted  
automatically. (See page 91.)  
equivalent of three stops). Use it to prevent  
hunting1) or to reduce the depth of field2).  
3 (5600K)  
Cloudy or rainy outdoor shooting, and  
fluorescent lighting.  
4 (5600K +  
1/64ND)  
Sunlight.  
This setting includes a 1/64 neutral density  
filter (reducing the exposure by the  
equivalent of six stops). Use it to prevent  
hunting1) or to reduce the depth of field2).  
4 Check the settings in the basic menu (page 80) and  
advanced menu. (page 86.)  
5 Check the lens settings (pages 32 and 33) and  
flange focal length adjustment. (page 119.)  
6 Adjust the eyepiece focus, and the contrast and  
brightness of the viewfinder image. (page 118.)  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) Hunting: This occurs if the automatic iris function is not  
able to reach a stable state, and as a result the image  
brightness keeps changing, alternately lighter and darker.  
2) Depth of field: This is the range over which the subject  
is sharply in focus.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
49  
Basic Procedure for Shooting  
7 Check the sound system settings.  
• Microphone connections  
Using DynaLatitude Function  
• Settings on the VCR section  
This function enables detailed adjustment of contrast  
control in each pixel in accordance with a histogram of  
luminance signal levels.  
If use this function, the camcorder automatically  
adjusts contrast control by detecting luminance levels  
of each subject.  
8 If required, switch on the center marker and/or  
safety zone (basic menu page 6 and advanced  
menu page 4) and zebra pattern (ZEBRA button) in  
the viewfinder image.  
9 Adjust the white balance (page 112) and black  
balance (page 115).  
10Turn the focusing ring so that the subject is  
sharply in focus.  
It may be convenient to use the EZ FOCUS button  
for the “easy focus” function. (See page 13.)  
DL ON  
DL OFF  
However, if a subject moves in shooting, the  
brightness of the subject may be changed; noise on the  
black portion may increase depending on subjects.  
For turning on/off the function, see page 88, and for  
the effect level, see page 81.  
11Set up the VCR section according to your shooting  
objectives, then start recording with the VTR  
button.  
• During recording, the REC/TALLY indicator(s)  
in the viewfinder light(s), and “REC” appears on  
the viewfinder screen.  
• Depending on the setting of the REC TIME  
switch (see page 21), you can display the total  
recording time or the length of the current cut on  
the viewfinder screen.  
• You can use the AUDIO LEVEL knob on the  
right side to manually adjust the channel 1 audio  
level. To do this, you must first set up the VCR  
section to enable manual adjustment of the audio  
recording level. (See page 20.)  
12To pause recording, press the VTR button again.  
50  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Recording  
For details of ClipLink log data, see “ClipLink Shooting”  
(page 68).  
Cassettes for the DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL  
Notes on using cassettes  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL can use standard-size  
and mini-size DVCAM and DV series metal tape  
cassettes. (To ensure high-quality playback, editing,  
and storage of recorded contents, we recommend using  
highly reliable DVCAM cassettes).  
• Before storing the cassette, rewind the tape to the  
beginning and be sure to put the cassette in its storage  
case, preferably on end instead of flat on its side. The  
storage case of a DVCAM cassette is specially  
designed to eusure a long-period storage of the tape.  
Storing a cassette in any other condition (not  
rewound, out of its case, etc.) may cause the video  
and audio contents to become damaged over time.  
• If the cassette memory connector (contact point)  
becomes dirty, connection problems may occur and  
cause a loss of functions. Remove away any dust or  
dirt from this area before using the cassette.  
• If the cassette is dropped on the floor or otherwise  
receives a hard impact, the tape may become  
slackened and may not record and or play back  
correctly. For instructions on removing tape slack,  
see next page.  
The following table lists the cassettes that can be used  
in the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL.  
Model name  
Size  
PDV-64ME/64MEM/94ME/124ME/ Standard size  
124MEM/184ME/184MEM  
PDVM-12ME/22ME/32ME/32MEM/ Mini size  
40ME/40MEM  
The numbers in the model names show maximum  
recording/playback time (minutes) for each model. For  
example, the maximum recording/playback time of the  
PDV-184ME is 184 minutes.  
Notes  
• If you insert an incorrect type of cassette, it will be  
automatically ejected.  
• When using a DV cassette, the maximum recording  
time is reduced to two-thirds of the time indicated on  
the cassette. For example, up to 40 minutes of  
recording can be done on a 60-minute DV cassette.  
• Follow the instructions on page 53 to insert a  
cassette, or the camcorder may be damaged.  
Preventing accidental erasure  
Set the REC/SAVE switch to SAVE to prevent  
accidental erasure of recorded contents.  
DVCAM cassettes  
REC/SAVE switch  
Set to SAVE  
The following figure illustrates the DVCAM cassette’s  
appearance.  
REC  
SAVE  
Standard size  
Mini size  
If you insert a cassette into the camcorder when this  
switch is set to SAVE, the camcorder will not record  
when you press the VTR button.  
Cassette memory  
REC/SAVE switch  
To enable recording  
Set the REC/SAVE switch back to REC.  
For ClipLink shooting, a DVCAM cassette including  
“cassette memory” is necessary. In the cassette  
memory, data required for editing the recorded video  
(ClipLink log data) is stored. The DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL can record or play back the cassettes with  
cassette memory of 16 Kbits or less.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
51  
Recording  
Checking the tape for slack  
See page 53 on how to insert a cassette.  
Turn the reel gently in the direction shown by the  
arrow. If the reel does not move, there is no slack.  
Insert the cassette into the cassette holder, close the  
cassette holder, and after about 10 seconds take it out.  
Paper clip, etc.  
Reel  
Recording on the Internal VCR  
This section describes basic recording operations using  
the internal VCR.  
• When using a tape recorded by the DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL to transfer digital (video/audio/time code)  
signals at four times normal speed from the DSR-85/  
85P Digital Videocassette Recorder to the ES-7  
EditStation for editing purposes, there must be about  
at least 40 seconds of recording on the tape before the  
IN point. To perform editing without problems, it is  
recommended that you pre-record at least 40  
seconds of color bar signals at the beginning of the  
tape.  
• When dubbing tapes using the DSR-70/70P, a  
continuous recorded section of approximately five  
seconds is required before the recording start point. It  
is recommended to record beforehand color bars or a  
similar signal at the start point of the source tape to  
be dubbed on this unit.  
Notes  
• When you will not perform ClipLink shooting, set the  
ClipLink function to oFF in the VCR menu. (See  
page 109 for menu setting and see page 68 for details  
of ClipLink shooting.)  
• Before shooting, mount or connect any required  
equipment or accessories and check the power  
supply. (See Chapter 2 “Fitting and Connections”.)  
Also, it is desireable to make sure for problems in  
camcorder’s internal operations using the auto-check  
function. (See “Menu 210 Using Auto-Check  
Function” on page 107.)  
1 3  
2
1
4
52  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
1 Set the POWER switch to ON and check the  
following items in the display window.  
Indication and steps  
Item to check  
See also  
How is the battery?  
BATT E [xxxxxx] F: The battery is fully charged.  
If two or fewer marks x appear and the indication is blinking,  
replace the battery.  
“8 Display window” (page 16)  
Make sure that the  
If it is shown, replace the lithium battery.  
is not shown in the display window.  
Has the lithium battery  
been inserted and is it  
charged?  
“Inserting and Replacing the  
Lithium Battery” (page 31)  
Li  
Make sure that the “HUMID” indication is not shown in the  
display window. If it is shown, do not use the equipment until  
the “HUMID” indication disappears.  
Is there a condensation  
problem?  
“Condensation” (page 128)  
Inserting a mini-size cassette  
2 Press the EJECT button to open the cassette  
holder, and insert the cassette.  
Stage  
Make sure that the cassette’s REC/SAVE switch is  
set to REC, then check for tape slack before  
loading the cassette.  
For details on handling cassettes, see “Cassettes for the  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL” on page 51.  
Inserting a standard-size cassette  
PUSH  
Indication “PUSH”  
Cassette holder window  
Guides  
Mini-size cassette  
match marks  
PUSH  
Indication “PUSH”  
Lock  
Cassette holder window  
Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front) facing  
outward. Push the cassette between the both guides along the  
stage until it goes under the lock.  
Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front)  
facing outward.  
Press on “PUSH” on the cassette holder solidly to  
close the holder.  
(Continued)  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
53  
Recording  
• After inserting the cassette, close the cassette holder  
solidly by pressing on the “PUSH” indication on the  
holder. Unless the cassette holder is closed solidly,  
the tape will not be loaded and the tape operation  
buttons will not function. If you find the tape  
operation buttons inoperable, press on the “PUSH”  
indication again to make sure that the cassette holder  
is solidly closed.  
Notes  
• Turn the power on and then insert or eject the  
cassette.  
• When inserting a mini-size cassette, confirm the  
cassette is under the lock (see the figure on the  
previous page), and then close the cassette holder. If  
the cassette is not inserted fully under the lock, a  
stopper will prevent the cassette holder from closing  
when you press down on it.  
• Internal parts of the camcorder may become bent or  
otherwise damaged if you attempt to close the  
cassette holder after inserting a mini-size cassette in  
the wrong direction (such as with the cassette turned  
backside front so the reel holes face the cassette  
holder window or with the cassette turned sideways  
so that a short side enters first).  
CL  
• If  
appears in the display window when the  
cassette is loaded, it means that data has already been  
recorded into the cassette memory. If you record  
under this condition whether the ClipLink function is  
available or not, the existing cassette memory data  
will be overwritten. To avoid this, insert a new  
cassette.  
Do not insert cassette sideways.  
Do not insert cassette backside front.  
3 Make the switch settings shown in the figure  
below.  
LIGHT  
ON  
a) When one of these switches is set to MAN, the  
recording volume can be manually adjusted. For  
details, see “Manually adjusting audio recording  
level” on page 55.  
b) For details, see “Setting the Time Code Value” on  
page 64.  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
0
OFF  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
CL CONT IP  
RESET  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
F
F
8
8
32k  
48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
(MENU SET)  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
AUDIO SELECT  
(CH-1/CH-2)  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
SET  
R-RUN  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
switches: AUTOa)  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
DATE/TIME  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
TC mode switch 2: F-RUN or R-RUNb)  
TC mode switch 1: PRESETb)  
54  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
4 Display menu 212 and select the audio recording  
mode (two-channel recording mode or four-  
channel recording mode).  
Recording begins when the TALLY indicator stays  
lit after blinking for a moment.  
During recording, the tape transport buttons  
(EJECT, REW, F FWD, PLAY, and STOP) cannot  
be used.  
For menu operation, see “Menu 212 Selecting Audio  
Recording Mode ” (page 109).  
Operation  
Step  
Note  
To view image  
being shot  
• Look into the viewfinder.  
• Connect a video monitor to the  
MONITOR OUT connector, VIDEO  
OUT connector, or S VIDEO OUT  
connector.  
One of the following warning indications appears  
in the display area when you change the audio  
mode setting during recording pause.  
To listen to audio  
track being shot  
Connect an earphone to the  
EARPHONE connector  
or listen to the audio from the  
speaker.  
Status  
Warning indication  
Fs 48k (flashes four  
times per second)  
Attempting to switch from 32-kHz  
mode (four-channel mode) to 48-kHz  
mode (two-channel mode).  
To pause recording Press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or lens.  
Attempting to switch from 48-kHz  
mode (two-channel mode) to 32-kHz  
mode (four-channel mode).  
Fs 32k (flashes four  
times per second)  
For instructions on continuing to  
record after a pause, see “Back  
Space Editing” (page 58).  
The recordings at switching points prevent editing.  
Avoid changing the audio mode once you have  
started recording.  
To stop recording  
Press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or lens, then press the  
STOP button.  
With this state, it is impossible to start  
back space editing.  
5 Set up the camcorder to suit your recording  
objectives, and press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or lens.  
To remove the  
cassette  
Check that the power is on, then  
press the EJECT button to open the  
cassette holder and remove the  
cassette. Close the cassette holder.  
Manually adjusting audio recording level  
1 In step 3 above (“Recording on the Internal  
VCR”), set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2)  
switches to MAN (see page 54).  
2 While checking the audio level in the display  
window, turn the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2)  
knobs for the channel being used for microphone  
or wireless microphone system connection (CH-1  
or CH-2) so that the maximum audio level is under  
0 dB.  
LIGHT  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
ON  
0
OFF  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
Audio level  
indications  
CL CONT IP  
RESET  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
F8 32k  
F8 48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
(MENU SET)  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
AUDIO LEVEL  
(CH-1/CH-2)  
knobs  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
SET  
R-RUN  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
DATE/TIME  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
55  
Recording  
When the battery is getting exhausted  
Recording on an External VCR  
Using the VTR Connector (26-pin)  
When the battery is getting exhausted, the BATT  
indication in the display window blinks once a second.  
(see page 17.) Replace the battery with a charged  
battery immediately.  
If you continue to use the low battery, the BATT  
indication will blink four times a second, and the  
operation will stop.  
Set the VTR TRIGGER switch in the following way.  
(You can change the setting during recording.)  
Simultaneous recording on the external and  
internal VCR: PARALLEL  
Recording on the external VCR: EXT ONLY  
When the VTR TRIGGER switch is set to INT ONLY,  
the camcorder controls only the internal VCR even if  
an external VCR is connected.  
For description of how to replace batteries, see “Power  
Supply” on page 46.  
Notes  
For information about connectable VCRs, see “Connecting  
an External VCR” (page 45).  
• Turn the POWER switch OFF before replacing the  
battery.  
• If using two NP-1B batteries, be sure to replace both  
batteries at the same time.  
Recording on the internal and external  
VCRs simultaneously  
1 Set the switches as shown in the table below.  
Recording an External Video  
Signals  
Setting  
Switch  
PARALLEL  
VTR TRIGGER switch  
Set depending on the  
connected VCR.  
When the optional DSBK-501/501P Analog  
Composite Input Board is fitted to this camcorder, you  
can record the external video signals.  
EXT VTR OUTPUT switch  
Audio input level setting switch –20 dB  
on the connected VCR  
1 Connect the external video signals to the GEN  
LOCK IN/VIDEO IN connector.  
2 Put the external VCR in the recording pause mode.  
3 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
The both VCRs start recording simultaneously.  
2 Set VIDEO IN to EXT using the basic menu page  
4.  
For details, see “Viewfinder Basic Menu” on page 81 .  
To pause recording, press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or lens again.  
The both VCRs go into the recording paused state.  
3 Press the EJECT switch to open the cassette  
holder, and insert the cassette.  
4 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
If either VCR comes to the end of tape during  
recording, one VCR stops at the end of the tape,  
and the other will continue recording.  
To restart simultaneous recording, perform the  
following.  
The camcorder starts recording.  
Notes  
When the internal VCR has run out of the tape:  
Change the cassette, and press the VTR  
button on the camcorder or lens.  
When the external VCR has run out of the tape:  
Change the cassette, and start recording with  
the controls on the external VCR.  
• If the external video signals include noise, such as  
jitter, the camcorder may not record signals properly.  
• When recording the external analog video signals,  
signals are not output from the S VIDEO OUT  
connector.  
• Setup log data is not displayed when external analog  
video signal are being recorded (see page 101.).  
56  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Recording on an External VCR  
Using the DV OUT Connector  
Note  
After replacing the cassette on the external VCR,  
do not press the VTR button on the camcorder or  
lens, as this will pause the internal VCR.  
You can record digital audio and video signals in the  
DV format on an external VCR, using the DV OUT  
connector.  
To operate either VCR during recording,  
change the VTR TRIGGER switch setting. Both  
VCRs continue recording at the time of switching.  
Setting to INT ONLY: The camcorder can  
operate only the internal VCR.  
For information about connectable VCR, see “Connecting  
an External VCR” on page 45.  
Setting to EXT ONLY: The camcorder can  
operate only the external VCR. If you set  
REC TIME to EXT in the advanced menu  
page 4, you can change the total recording  
time (TTL) from of the internal VCR to the  
one of the external VCR.  
Note  
When an external equipment, such as VCR, is  
connected to the DV OUT connector, the ClipLink and  
the audio fade-in/fade-out function during recording  
will not work.  
Recording on the external VCR only  
1 Set the VTR TRIGGER switch to EXT ONLY.  
2 Use the controls on the external VCR to put it in  
the recording paused state.  
3 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
The external VCR starts recording.  
To pause recording  
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens again.  
Using the viewfinder to see playback  
pictures  
For the internal VCR: Press the PLAY button.  
For the external VCR: Press the RET button on the  
lens when the internal VCR is in recording or no  
cassette is inserted in the internal VCR. While  
holding it down, you can see the return video from  
the external VCR.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
57  
Back Space Editing  
This section describes the steps for recording several  
scenes continuously.  
If there is a long period before shooting  
the next scene  
1 Follow steps 1 to 5 (pages 53 to 55) in the  
procedure “Recording on the Internal VCR” to  
begin recording.  
Once put the camcorder into recording pause mode, it  
waits a certain (user-definable) period of time and then  
automatically switches to standby-off mode. When the  
camcorder is in standby-off mode, it takes time for the  
recording to start after pressing the VTR button.  
To continue the time code that has been recorded  
on the tape, set the TC mode switch 2 to R-RUN in  
step 3 (page 54).  
For details on setting the timeout value for automatic  
switching to standby-off mode, see “Menu 207 Setting  
Standby-On Period” on page 106.  
For details of time codes, see “Setting the Time Code  
Value” on page 64.  
2 When you have finished recording a scene, press  
Starting Back Space Editing at  
Any Tape Position  
the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
This pauses the recording operation.  
This section describes the steps for insert a new scene  
at any desired position on the tape.  
The following steps can also be used to restart  
recording after an interruption has occurred.  
Note  
Do not do any of the following before the next  
scene is shot as it will interrupt the recording (the  
recording will not be continuous).  
• Remove the cassette.  
• Transport the tape (play, rewind, fast forward).  
• Press the STOP button.  
1 Perform step 1 (page 53) in “Recording on the  
Internal VCR”.  
• Replace the battery when the camcorder is  
powered.  
2 Insert the cassette containing the previous  
recording.  
3 When you are ready to shoot the next scene, press  
3 Perform steps 3 and 4 (pages 54 and 55) in  
the VTR button on the camcorder or lens again.  
“Recording on the Internal VCR”.  
This restarts the recording operation.  
To continue from the last time code of the previous  
recording, set TC mode switch 1 to REGEN.  
4 Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each scene to be shot.  
For details about time codes, see “Setting the Time  
Code Value” on page 64.  
Operation  
Step  
4 Press the PLAY button.  
Restart an  
See next section “Starting Back  
interrupted recording Space Editing at Any Tape Position”.  
(see step 2 above)  
The recorded contents are displayed on the  
viewfinder screen.  
Check the recorded See “Checking the Recorded  
contents  
Contents Immediately After Shooting  
—Recording Review” on page 61.  
Operation at playback Step  
Stop recording  
Press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or lens, then press the  
STOP button.  
Fast forward the tape  
Rewind the tape  
Press the F FWD button.  
Press the REW button.  
58  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
• If the camcorder is left powered off for several hours.  
• If the camcorder is subject to severe vibration while  
powered off.  
• If for any other reason the automatic recording  
continuity function is unable to operate correctly.  
• If the lithium battery (CR2032) is exhausted, or if no  
lithium battery has been fitted.  
STOP button  
REW button  
PLAY button  
F FWD button  
Using the Edit Search Function  
While Back Space Editing  
STOP  
REW  
PLAY  
F FWD  
EJECT  
You can use the edit search function to find the desired  
tape location when continuing to record from any other  
location on the tape. Press and hold one of the EDIT  
SEARCH buttons to activate the search playback  
function for as long as you hold down it.  
5 Press the STOP button when the tape reaches the  
position where the new recording will start (see the  
figure above).  
1 Turn on the power, then insert a cassette into the  
VCR.  
This stops the tape.  
2 Perform steps 2 to 12 in “Basic Procedure for  
6 Press the RET buttonon the lens.  
Shooting” (pages 49 and 50).  
This rewinds the tape slightly and runs it until the  
continue point (specified by step 5), then sets the  
camcorder to recording pause state.  
3 Press and hold either of the EDIT SEARCH  
buttons (REV or FWD).  
7 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
This starts recording.  
The edit search function enables you to search for the  
continue position. For details, see next section.  
Note  
If you turn the POWER switch off during recording, or  
when recording is paused, the camcorder automatically  
goes through its shut-down sequence, then powers off.  
When you next turn the POWER switch on, the  
camcorder automatically finds the point at which  
recording ended, and sets itself up so that you can  
carry in with continuous recording. Note that this  
operation takes several seconds: do not turn the  
POWER switch off or replace the battery during this  
interval, as the automatic recording continuity will be  
lost.  
REV button  
FWD button  
The tape is moved in reverse or forward search  
mode for as long as you hold down the REV or  
FWD button, and the image is shown in the  
viewfinder.  
(Continued)  
Note also that the recording continuity is lost in the  
following cases.  
• If the POWER switch is turned on and off repeatedly.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
59  
Back Space Editing  
To change the playback speed  
The following indication appears on the screen.  
Press the REV or FWD button down firmly into  
the inner position to make the tape move at the  
faster speed. Press the button down lightly to  
make the tape move at the slower speed.  
PLAY  
m
FREEZE MIX(ONmPUSH)  
Note  
Do not shut off the power while using the edit  
search function. The VCR may not be able to find  
the continue point.  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
For details of the playback operation, see page 61.  
4 Release the REV or FWD button when you find  
the tape location where you wish to continue  
shooting.  
4 Press the MENU dial when you see the image you  
want to freeze.  
The frozen playback image is displayed, mixed  
with the shooting image, in monochrome. The  
indication “FREEZE MIX ON” appears on the  
screen.  
The VCR enters recording pause mode.  
5 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens.  
The VCR starts recording.  
FREEZE MIX ON  
Using the Freeze Mix Function  
The freeze mix function superimposes a freeze-frame  
image of a previously recorded shot on the shooting  
image displayed on the viewfinder screen.  
MIX OFF (YESmPUSH)  
You can use this function to easily frame a subject  
within the same framework from a previous shot.  
To release the freeze mix mode, press the MENU  
dial again.  
Note  
To change the freeze-frame image  
Press the PLAY button.  
Use the tape transport buttons to find the desired  
image and then perform step 4 again.  
When the camcorder is in EZ mode, the freeze mix  
function is disabled. Press the EZ MODE button to  
release the EZ mode beforehand. (See page 14.)  
1 Connect a color monitor to the MONITOR OUT  
connector and set the MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER switch to ON. (It is not necessary  
to set the MONITOR OUT CHARACTER switch  
to ON when using only the viewfinder for freeze  
mix operation.)  
5 Once you have framed your subject, press the  
MENU dial to cancel the freeze mix function.  
6 Find the recording start point or insert a new  
cassette for recording, then begin recording.  
Notes  
2 Perform steps 2 to 10 from “Basic Procedure for  
• If you use the tape transport buttons during back  
space editing, the back space editing mode will be  
stopped. When you were using the ClipLink function  
at shooting, if you simply restart the recording you  
will lose any ClipLink data that was recorded.  
To avoid this, press the ClipLink CONTINUE button  
before restarting recording.  
Shooting” (pages 49 and 50).  
3 Play back the tape on which the image to be used  
for framework alignment has been recorded, and  
press the MENU switch to ON position.  
• The signal is not output from the DV OUT connector  
while using the freeze mix function.  
60  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Playback — Checking Recorded Contents  
Checking the Recorded Contents  
Immediately After Shooting  
— Recording Review  
Immediately after shooting, you can use the recording  
review function to automatically rewind and play back  
the last 2 to 10 seconds of the recording to check the  
recorded contents.  
STOP button  
REW button  
PLAY button  
Performing recording review  
With recording paused, press the RET button on the  
lens.  
F FWD button  
STOP  
REW  
PLAY  
F FWD  
EJECT  
Depending on how long you hold down the button, the  
tape is automatically rewound over the last 2 to 10  
seconds of the recording, and then this last part of the  
recording is shown in the viewfinder. You can also  
listen to the recorded sound via an earphone or the  
speaker. After the recorded part is played back, the  
camcorder is automatically returns to the pause state.  
Operation  
Step  
Fast forward the tape  
Rewind the tape  
Stop the tape  
Press the F FWD button.  
Press the REW button.  
Press the STOP button.  
Notes  
• During recording review, do not turn the POWER  
switch off. The camcorder may not be able to find the  
continue point.  
• If you press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens  
during recording review, the camcorder stops the  
recording review and starts recording. In this case  
(when ClipLink mode is oFF), it is impossible to start  
back space editing.  
Note  
If two or more series of Index Pictures are recorded  
separately on the tape, they may be played back at  
back space editing points.  
For details about Index Pictures, see “ClipLink Shooting”  
(page 68).  
Viewing Color Playback  
Viewing Monochrome Playback  
in the Viewfinder  
Using a color television or color video monitor, you  
can view a color playback (with no playback adaptors).  
You can view a monochrome playback of the  
recording in the viewfinder.  
Connect a color television or color video monitor to  
the MONITOR OUT connector or the S VIDEO OUT  
connector.  
See the previous section “Viewing Monochrome  
Playback in the Viewfinder” for playback operation.  
1 Turn the power on.  
2 Load a cassette.  
3 Press the PLAY button.  
This starts playback, during which a monochrome  
playback of the recording is shown in the  
viewfinder.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
61  
Setting Time Values  
The camcorder uses three types of time values: counter 2 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button.  
values, time code values, and user bits.  
The time value is displayed in the viewfinder screen  
and in the display window.  
This resets the counter shown in the viewfinder  
and display window as “0:00:00”.  
The counter value starts advancing as the tape is  
transported. It shows negative values if the tape is  
rewound past the point where the counter was  
reset.  
LIGHT  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
ON  
OFF  
0
Time value  
indication  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
RESET  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
CL CONT IP  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
F
F
8
8
32k  
48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
(MENU SET)  
Note  
DISPLAY  
switch  
Discontinuous recording in the tape may cause the  
counter to malfunction during playback.  
Use the DISPLAY switch to switch time value  
indications.  
Displaying the date/time  
Type of time value  
DISPLAY switch setting  
The camcorder automatically records the real time of  
the built-in clock on the tape in addition to time codes  
and video/audio signals.  
Perform the following steps to display the date or time  
instead of the time value.  
Counter of tape transport time COUNTER  
Time code  
User bits  
TC  
U-BIT  
Note  
The time code and user bits cannot be displayed  
properly if the tape does not have time code and/or  
user bits recordings or if the time code was recorded  
using a non-compatible method.  
1 Confirm the following.  
Parts to confirm  
State  
Display window  
The VCR menu is not displayed.  
TC mode switch  
1/2  
Set to the position other than  
PRESET/SET.  
For details of the time value indication in the viewfinder, see  
page 76.  
2 Set the DISPLAY switch to TC or U-BIT.  
Resetting the counter  
3 Press the SHIFT button.  
The counter value shows the tape’s running time in  
hours, minutes, and seconds format. Before starting a  
tape, perform the following steps to reset the counter.  
While pressing the SHIFT button, the date or time  
is displayed at the location of the time value  
indication.  
DISPLAY switch setting  
Indication  
Time  
Counter  
TC  
LIGHT  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
ON  
OFF  
0
U-BIT  
Date  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
RESET  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
CL CONT IP  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
For description of how to set the built-in clock, see  
“Menu 101 Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar”  
on page 105.  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
1
F
F
8
8
32k  
48k  
2
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
(MENU SET)  
1 Set the DISPLAY switch to COUNTER.  
The time value indication in the display window  
shows the current counter value.  
62  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Setting the User Bit Value  
You can set the user bits as eight-digit hexadecimal  
values (base 16) to have the date, time, scene number,  
and other information inserted into the time code.  
When using both the time code and user bits, set up  
the user bits first. If you set the time code first, the  
internal time code generator will remain stopped while  
you set the user bits, which will set the time value off  
from the original setting.  
Note  
Setting the user bit value may be disallowed in some  
cases at ClipLink shooting. For details, see step 4 on  
page 69 in “ClipLink Shooting”.  
4
LIGHT  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
ON  
0
OFF  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
CL CONT IP  
RESET  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
F
F
8
8
32k  
48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
1
(MENU SET)  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
SET  
R-RUN  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
DATE/TIME  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
2 3  
1 Set the DISPLAY switch to U-BIT.  
The user bits indication appears.  
Operation Step  
Select a  
digit  
Press the SHIFT button.  
Each time you press the SHIFT button,  
the next digit to the right starts blinking.  
Change a  
value  
Press the ADVANCE button.  
2 Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET.  
3 Set the TC mode switch 2 to SET.  
Each time you press the ADVANCE  
button, the displayed value is  
incremented to F and returns to 0.  
Reset  
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button.  
This causes the leftmost digit in the user bits  
indication to start blinking.  
The display returns to “00 00 00 00”.  
Hexadecimal digits A to F are displayed as  
follows.  
4 Set the user bits.  
Hexadecimal digit  
A
B
C
D
E
F
Display  
A
b
C
d
E
F
5 Perform step 6 in “Setting the Time Code Value”  
on page 65.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
63  
Setting Time Values  
Setting the Time Code Value  
For details of setting user bits, see “Setting the User Bit  
Value” on previous page.  
This section describes the steps for setting time code  
recording methods for particular shooting conditions  
and setting initial values.  
When using both the time code and user bits, set up  
the user bits first. If you set the time code first, the  
internal time code generator will remain stopped while  
you set the user bits, which will set the time value off  
from the original setting.  
Note  
Setting the time code value may be disallowed in some  
cases at ClipLink shooting. For details, see step 4 on  
page 69 in “ClipLink Shooting”.  
5 4  
LIGHT  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
ON  
0
OFF  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
CL CONT IP  
RESET  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
1
F
F
8
8
32k  
48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
(MENU SET)  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
SET  
R-RUN  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
DATE/TIME  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
2 3,6  
1 Set the DISPLAY switch to TC.  
2 Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET.  
3 Set the TC mode switch 2 to SET.  
The time code value can be set anywhere in the  
range of “00:00:00:00” to “23:59:59:29” (DSR-  
500WSL) or “23:59:59:24” (DSR-500WSPL).  
5 For the DSR-500WSL, use menu 204 to select the  
frame mode.  
This causes the leftmost digit in the time code  
display to start blinking.  
Operation  
Adjust the discrepancy bestrewn Select the drop-  
time code value and real time frame mode.  
Step  
4 Set the time code initial value.  
Need not adjust the discrepancy Select the non-  
between time code value and real drop-frame mode.  
time  
Operation Step  
Select a  
digit  
Press the SHIFT button.  
Each time you press the SHIFT button,  
the next digit to the right starts blinking.  
For more information about the drop-frame/non-drop-  
frame mode, see “Drop-frame mode (for DSR-500WSL  
Only)” on next page.  
Change a  
value  
Press the ADVANCE button.  
Each time you press the ADVANCE  
button, the displayed value increases.  
For details of menu operations, see page 105.  
Reset  
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button.  
The display returns to “00:00:00:00”.  
64  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Restarting an interrupted recording  
Perform the following steps to make the time code  
continuous when the recording has been interrupted or  
when the cassette tape has been removed from the  
camcorder between shootings.  
6 Use the TC mode switch 2 to set the desired  
running mode.  
Operation  
Setting  
Time code advances freely regardless of  
F-RUN  
the VCR’s current operation mode.  
1 Set the TC mode switch 1 to REGEN.  
Time code value advances only while  
recording.  
R-RUN  
Time code advance is automatically set to R-RUN  
even if the TC mode switch 2 has been set to F-  
RUN.  
If you select F-RUN, the time code starts  
advancing immediately.  
2 Perform steps 1 to 6 of “Starting Back Space  
Drop-frame mode (for DSR-500WSL only)  
Editing at Any Tape Position” on pages 58 and 59.  
In the NTSC standard, the time code value is based on  
30 frames per second, but the exact video frame  
frequency is in fact 29.97 frames per second and the  
real time, or 18 frames per 10 minutes.  
Drop-frame mode corrects for this by skipping two  
frame counts at the beginning of every minute which is  
not a multiple of ten.  
When the camcorder is at the recording pause  
state, the recorded time code is read from the tape  
and synchronized to the internal time code  
generator.  
3 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens to  
restart back space editing.  
Example: When the minute value is changing from  
11 to 12  
Setting the time code to the real time  
clock bU calendar  
00:05:11:29  
Set the TC mode switch 1 to DATE/TIME.  
00:05:12:00 and  
00:05:12:01  
These two are dropped.  
You can record the real time set in menu 101 as the  
time cord, and the calendar set in menu 101 as the user  
bits.  
00:05:12:02  
Once you set this switch to DATE/TIME position, it is  
not possible to retrieve the previous value (user bits  
and time code) in the time code generator.  
In non-drop-frame mode, however, no frame counts  
are omitted, and there is a gradual deviation of the time  
code from real time.  
For how to set the real time clock and calendar, see “Menu  
101 Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar” on page  
105.  
Making the time code continuous at back  
space editing  
Set the TC mode switch 2 to R-RUN and start back  
space editing.  
For operation of back space editing, see “Back Space  
Editing” on page 58.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
65  
Setting Time Values  
Synchronization With External Time Code Signals — Gen-Lock  
To edit and compile a recording that is shot using  
Note  
multiple camcorders, it is necessary to synchronize the  
video and time code of the various camcorders (by  
gen-lock).  
Synchronization with external time code signals (by  
gen-lock) may be disallowed in some cases at  
ClipLink shooting. For details, see step 4 on page 69  
in “ClipLink Shooting”  
Connection for gen-lock  
Connect the reference video and time code signals to the camcorder as shown below.  
Locking the video and time code signals to an external reference signal  
GEN LOCK IN  
Reference video signal  
Reference time code signal  
TC IN  
and time code signals.  
Locking the video and time code signals to  
another camcorder’s video and time code  
signals  
Using one camcorder as reference, to its video and  
time code signals, lock the other camcorders’ video  
If the reference camcorder is gen-locked to an external  
reference signal, any other connected camcorders are  
gen-locked to the same reference signal.  
Composite video signal (used as reference video signal)  
Time code signal (used as reference time code signal)  
VIDEO OUTa)  
Reference camcorder  
Locked camcorder  
TC OUT  
TC IN  
GEN LOCK IN  
TC OUT  
VIDEO OUTa)  
a) The output signal from the MONITOR OUT connector on the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL may discontinue when  
switching the operation between recording and playback. Use the output signal from the VIDEO OUT connector.  
66  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Locking the internal time code generator  
to the reference time code  
Perform the following steps to synchronize the  
camcorder’s internal time code generator to an external  
time code.  
1 Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET.  
2 Set the TC mode switch 2 to F-RUN.  
3 Connect a reference time code and video signal to  
the camcorder.  
For connections, see the previous section “Connection  
for gen-lock”.  
“EXT-LK” will be displayed in the display  
window. The internal time code generator will  
maintain its externally synchronized state even  
after you disconnect the reference time code signal.  
The precision of this synchronization (phase  
alignment) of time codes depends on the precision  
of the camcorder’s sync signal generator.  
Notes  
• After setting up external synchronization, allow a few  
seconds for the camcorder’s sync signal generator to  
stabilize before recording.  
• Only the time code can be externally synchronized.  
User bits cannot be externally synchronized.  
• If you turn the POWER switch on or off while the  
camcorder is operating under external  
synchronization, synchronization precision will be  
reduced.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
67  
ClipLink Shooting  
The ClipLink function is intended to be used at various  
stages from recording to editing. When you record  
using this function, Index Pictures are automatically  
recorded along with the time code, scene number, and  
other data, all of which make for more efficient  
editing.  
Notes  
• When an external equipment, such as VCR, is  
connected to the DV OUT connector, you cannot  
shoot with ClipLink.  
• On the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL, you can also use  
the ClipLink function without recording Index  
Pictures. However, if you perform ClipLink shooting  
on the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL without fitting the  
optional DSBK-301A, the recorded tape may cause  
malfunction at ClipLink continue on the DSR-1/1P.  
When you perform ClipLink shooting in a system  
containing the DSR-1/1P and DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL, fit the optional DSBK-301A Index Picture  
Board to the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL.  
For an overview of the ClipLink function, see “What Is  
ClipLink?” on page 136.  
To record Index Picture, the optional DSBK-301A  
Index Picture Board is required.  
For detail of fitting the optional DSBK-301A, refer to the  
instruction manual supplied with it.  
LIGHT  
WARNING  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
ON  
0
OFF  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
CL CONT IP  
RESET  
CLIP  
2
3
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
F
F
8
8
32k  
48k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
(MENU SET)  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
2
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
SET  
R-RUN  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
AUDIO IN  
LITHIUM BATT  
DATE/TIME  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
1 Turn the power on and perform steps 2 to 10 in  
IP  
CLIP and  
appear in the display window.  
“Basic Procedure for Shooting” (pages 49 and 50).  
Display Meaning  
CLIP  
IP  
The camcorder is in ClipLink mode.  
2 Perform the first two steps (page 53) in “Recording  
The camcorder is in ClipLink mode and can  
record Index Pictures (when the DSBK-301A  
is fitted).  
on the Internal VCR”. Check the following points.  
Check point  
Method  
Check the ClipLink  
function is on (or set it to  
on).  
See “Menu 211 Selecting  
the ClipLink Function”  
under “VCR Menu  
Operation” (page 109).  
Check whether or not the  
appears in the display  
cassette includes cassette window when the loaded  
memory. (The camcorder cassette includes cassette  
supports cassettes with up memory. (The ClipLink  
to 16 Kbits of cassette  
memory.)  
function cannot be used  
unless appears in the  
display window.)  
Make sure that the lithium  
battery has been correctly window if the lithium  
appears in the display  
Li  
inserted and is not used  
up.  
battery has not been  
inserted or is used up.  
68  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
The following display appears on the viewfinder  
screen.  
memory and up to 198 clips (Index Pictures) can  
be recorded in a 16-Kbit cassette memory.  
3 Set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switch to  
AUTO or MAN (see page 54).  
TCG 12:34:56:00  
ClipLink mode  
W:A  
4 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens.  
indication: CLIP  
M or Ca)  
CLIPM  
198  
F5.6  
56ND  
Recording begins when the TALLY indicator stays  
lit after blinking for a moment.  
Clip remaining  
00 04 01  
10:00:00  
AM  
The camcorder enters ClipLink continue mode (in  
which back space editing is possible using  
ClipLink function) and indication CONT appears in  
the display window.  
a) For details, see “Basic menu page 7” (page 82).  
During recording, the time code (HH:MM:SS  
format) at the recording start (Rec IN) point is  
recorded into the camcorder’s internal memory.  
Index Pictures are also recorded if you use the  
DSBK-301A.  
To record the cassette name/number  
Access basic menu page 7 to specify a name or  
number for the inserted cassette (see page 82).  
Notes  
• If you use a cassette that contains data recorded  
via a different VCR, when you enter a cassette  
name/number in the cassette memory, you may  
lose any data that was previously written to the  
cassette memory. Also, if you use a cassette that  
contains data recorded in ClipLink mode on the  
camcorder for recording on a different VCR, you  
may lose any data that was previously written to  
the cassette memory.  
• When you power the camcorder or insert a  
cassette, black squares (x) blink in the place of  
the clip remaining indication in the display  
window (during this, the cassette memory data is  
being checked). Start recording after the blinking  
ends, or the ClipLink function will be disabled.  
• When CL appears in the display window, it  
means that data has already been recorded into  
the cassette memory. If you record under this  
condition whether the ClipLink function is  
available or not, the existing cassette memory  
data will be overwritten. To avoid this, you can  
either insert a new cassette or follow the  
Note  
When CONT appears, regardless of the setting of the  
TC mode switch 1, the time code generator  
automatically enters REGEN mode. Consequently,  
you cannot freely specify a time code nor can you  
use the external synchronization (genlock)  
function.  
5 To stop recording, press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or the lens.  
This sets recording pause mode.  
The time codes (HH:MM:SS) for the current clip  
(contents between the Rec IN and Rec OUT  
points) are recorded along with the scene number  
(as scene 001) in the cassette memory. The last  
Index Picture in the recorded scene is also recorded  
when the DSBK-301A is fitted.  
Note  
While data is being recorded in the cassette  
memory, cutting the power supply or opening the  
cassette holder is disallowed. If you turn the  
POWER switch off or press the EJECT button,  
black squares (x) blink in the place of the clip  
remaining indication in the display window. When  
the data has been recorded, the power supply is cut  
or the cassette is ejected.  
procedure for appending cassette memory data, as  
described in the section “Resuming Recording in  
ClipLink Mode” (page 72). If the CL is flashing,  
it means abnormality of the cassette memory. In  
this case, it is impossible to continue recording  
from that data on ClipLink mode.  
• The number of recordable clips varies with  
cassette memory capacity. Up to 45 clips (Index  
Pictures) can be recorded in a 4-Kbit cassette  
(Continued)  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
69  
ClipLink Shooting  
To continuously record the next scene  
Repeat steps 4 and 5.  
The scene number will be automatically incremented  
from the previous number.  
Setting Editing Points While  
Shooting  
You can use the TAKE button to record a time code  
for a Cue point or a Mark IN/OUT point.  
You can set or clear an “NG” designation for the  
previously recorded scene before shooting the next  
scene.  
Setting Mark IN/OUT points as you shoot  
If you have stopped the recording, see “Resuming  
Recording in ClipLink Mode” (page 72).  
The following data is recorded onto the cassette when  
you specify Mark IN/OUT points while shooting  
continuously at length, instead of during linked  
recording of each scene.  
Notes  
• During recording pause, pressing the STOP/PLAY/F  
FWD/REW buttons, performing edit search, or  
ejecting the cassette will interrupt the ClipLink  
shooting. With this state, it is impossible to start back  
space editing using ClipLink function. (The ClipLink  
• Time codes (HH:MM:SS) for specified Mark IN/  
OUT points  
• Scene number: The scene number counter is  
automatically incremented with each Mark IN point  
specification.  
• NG specification, cassette name/number  
• Index Pictures for all Mark IN points (when the  
DSBK-301A is fitted): these are recorded each time  
recording is stopped.  
continue mode is canceled and indication  
display window disappears.)  
in the  
CONT  
To perform back space editing at the recording stop  
position, press the ClipLink CONTINUE button  
before resuming recording. If you do resume  
recording without pressing this button first, the  
previous recorded data (and Index Pictures) will be  
overwritten or otherwise invalidated.  
• Each time you press the STOP button, the number of  
remaining clips is decremented by one. If you  
resume recording with the same VCR, the number of  
remaining clips is automatically incremented by one.  
Note  
The time codes for Rec IN/OUT points are not  
recorded.  
Perform the following procedure.  
1 Perform steps 1 to 3 in “ClipLink Shooting”  
For details, see “Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode”  
(page 72).  
(pages 68 and 69).  
2 Access basic menu page 7 and perform the  
following operations.  
• Do not unplug the power supply connector  
(connected to a battery pack or AC outlet) while the  
POWER switch is still set to ON, as this may cause  
the ClipLink function to operate abnormally. Be sure  
to set the POWER switch to OFF before  
1) Set MARK/CUE to MARK.  
The ClipLink mode indication “CLIP M”  
appears on the viewfinder screen.  
2) Set the cassette name or number if necessary.  
disconnecting the power supply.  
For details of menu operations, see “Basic Menu  
Operations” (page 80).  
3 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
The camcorder starts recording, and the REC/  
TALLY indicator(s) light(s) in the viewfinder.  
70  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
4 Press the TAKE button when you find a shot  
Setting Cue points as you shoot  
where you would like to set a Mark IN point.  
The following data is recorded onto the cassette when  
you specify a Cue point to highlight a scene.  
• Time codes (HH:MM:SS) for Rec IN/OUT points  
• Time codes (HH:MM:SS:frame) for Cue points  
• Scene number: The scene number is automatically  
incremented with each Rec IN point specification.  
• NG designation, cassette name/number (if set from  
the camcorder)  
• Index Pictures for all Rec IN points (when the  
DSBK-301A is fitted): these are recorded each time  
recording is stopped.  
NG button  
TAKE button  
The TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange) lights in the  
viewfinder and “TAKE” appears on the screen.  
Perform the following procedure.  
5 Press the TAKE button when you find a shot  
where you would like to set a Mark OUT point.  
1 Perform steps 1 to 3 in “ClipLink Shooting”  
(pages 68 and 69).  
The TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange) goes out in  
the viewfinder and the “TAKE” disappears from  
the screen.  
At this time, the time code (HH:MM:SS) at the  
Mark IN/OUT point for scene 001 is recorded to  
the camcorder’s internal memory, and then  
recorded to the cassette memory.  
2 Access basic menu page 7 and perform the  
following operations.  
1) Set MARK/CUE to CUE.  
The ClipLink mode indication “CLIP C”  
appears on the viewfinder screen.  
2) Set the cassette name or number if necessary.  
To set/clear NG  
For details of menu operations, see “Basic Menu  
Operations” (page 80).  
If you press the NG button before you set the next  
Mark IN point, the previous scene will be  
designated as “NG” (“NG” appears on the  
viewfinder screen or the screen).  
3 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens.  
The camcorder starts recording, and the REC/  
TALLY indicator lights in the viewfinder.  
Once NG has been set, you can cancel it by  
pressing the NG button again before you set the  
next Mark IN point (the “NG” on the screen  
disappears).  
4 Press the TAKE button when you find a shot  
where you would like to set a Cue point.  
6 Repeat steps 4 and 5 as needed to record time  
codes at Mark IN/OUT points, scene numbers, and  
NG designations to cassette memory.  
The “CUE” indication appears (for about 1 second)  
on the viewfinder screen. At this point, the time  
code (HH:MM:SS:frame) at the Cue point is  
recorded into the cassette memory.  
The scene number is automatically incremented  
each time you specify a Mark IN point.  
5 Repeat step 4 to specify more Cue points.  
7 To finish shooting, press the VTR button on the  
camcorder or the lens.  
This stops the recording operation.  
The Index Pictures of each Mark IN point are  
recorded onto the tape (when the DSBK-301A is  
fitted).  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
71  
ClipLink Shooting  
6 To finish shooting, press the VTR button on the  
Time codes (HH:MM:SS) of recording start/stop  
points (Rec IN/OUT points) and scene number  
(scene 001) are recorded to the cassette memory  
and the Index Picture of the Rec IN point is  
recorded onto the tape (when the DSBK-301A is  
fitted).  
camcorder or the lens.  
This stops recording operation.  
Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode  
During recording pause in ClipLink mode, pressing the  
STOP/PLAY/F FWD/REW buttons, performing edit  
search, or ejecting the cassette will interrupt the  
ClipLink shooting. With this state, it is impossible to  
start back space editing using ClipLink function. (The  
ClipLink continue mode is canceled and indication  
You can avoid this and continue recording in ClipLink  
mode from the previous recording stop point by  
performing the following steps.  
Note  
If you stop recording during the first ten seconds of  
recording, you may not be able to use these steps to  
continue recording in ClipLink mode.  
in the display window disappears.) If you resume  
CONT  
recording on the same cassette, the previously recorded  
data will be overwritten.  
1 3  
2
1
4
1 Perform steps 2 to 10 in “Basic Procedure for  
Shooting” (pages 49 and 50) and step 1 (page 53)  
in “Recording on the Internal VCR”.  
3 Check the following points.  
Result and response  
Check point  
If these indications do not appear in  
the display window, access the  
VCR menu and set ClipLink  
CLIP and IP  
(when the DSBK-  
301A is fitted)  
appear in the  
display window  
2 Insert a cassette if one is not already loaded.  
function to on (see page 109).  
The CL and  
indications should appear in the  
Remaining clips Make sure there are enough  
capacity for recording clips (see  
page 18).  
display window.  
Note  
If the CL is flashing, it means abnormality of the  
cassette memory. In this case, it is impossible to  
continue recording from that data on ClipLink  
mode.  
72  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
4 Press the ClipLink CONTINUE button.  
When all Index Pictures are recorded at the end  
of the recordings  
The tape remaining indication in the display  
window flashes as the camcorder automatically  
searches the recording stop point. When it finds the  
recording stop point, it stops and enters recording  
pause mode.  
Index Pictures  
A
E
B
F
C
G
D
Recording stop  
Recording restart  
(ClipLink continue)  
Once it has stopped, check that the CONT indication  
appears in the display window.  
Recording  
Recording  
start  
stop  
To find the recording stop point efficiently  
If you press the ClipLink CONTINUE button after  
rewinding or fast forwarding the tape to the  
position between the previous recording’s start  
point and stop points, the recording stop point can  
more efficiently be found via an automatic search  
function.  
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Clip  
When two or more series of Index Pictures are  
separately recorded  
Two or more series of Index Pictures may be  
recorded if ClipLink shooting is once interrupted  
due to ejecting the cassette and resumed (in case of  
changing the camcorder on resuming, for  
example).  
If the recording stop point cannot be found, the  
CONT indication flashes in the display window.  
5 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens.  
Index Pictures A  
Index Pictures B  
D E  
This starts the recording function.  
A
B
C
F
G
6 When the recording is finished, set recording pause  
Recording Recording  
mode (or specify a Mark OUT point).  
stop  
restart  
Recording Remove  
(ClipLink  
continue)  
Recording  
stop  
start  
cassette.  
The time code (HH:MM:SS), scene number (serial  
number of scene during which recording was  
stopped) and other data for the current clip  
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Clip  
(contents between the Rec IN and Rec OUT points  
or between Mark IN and Mark OUT points) are  
recorded into cassette memory. The Index Pictures  
for the recorded scene are recorded after the  
recorded scene when the DSBK-301A is fitted.  
Camcorder A  
Camcorder B  
Insert cassette in camcorder B.  
If there is no need for ClipLink continue  
Repeat steps 5 and 6 to start recording the next  
scene.  
It is not necessary to press the ClipLink CONTINUE  
button when restarting recording.  
See step 4 in the previous section “Resuming  
Recording in ClipLink Mode”.  
The Index Pictures are recorded onto the tape as  
described below when the DSBK-301A is fitted.  
The contents recorded on the cassette may differ in this  
case depending on the settings when the recording is  
restarted.  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
73  
ClipLink Shooting  
When recording in ClipLink mode is started and  
previous recording is overwritten  
Previous  
New  
recording  
recording  
Previous Index Pictures:  
erased  
New Index Pictures are  
recorded (when the  
DSBK-301A is fitted).  
ClipLink log data: overwritten by new data  
When recording in ClipLink mode is started after a  
previous recording  
Previous  
recording  
New  
recording  
New Index Pictures are  
recorded (when the  
DSBK-301A is fitted).  
Previous Index Pictures:  
retained but invalid  
ClipLink log data: overwritten by new data  
74  
Chapter 3 Shooting  
Viewfinder Screen Indications  
There are four types of indication screen which appear  
in the viewfinder, as follows.  
• Normal indications  
These show the operating state of the camcorder.  
Status indications  
Display by holding the  
MENU switch up while  
the normal indications  
are present.  
WHITE : A 3200K  
A.IRIS: STD  
FILE : STD  
DCC+ : ON  
(See page 76.)  
• Status indications  
SS :OFF  
BATT:14.4V  
Pressing the MENU switch up while the normal  
indications are present calls a display of current  
settings. (See page 79.)  
Normal indications  
• Basic menu  
Display by moving the  
POWER switch to the  
ON position.  
This provides settings for the lens iris, shutter speed  
and so forth, and also a titling screen. (See the  
section “Viewfinder Basic Menu” on pages 80 to 85.)  
• Advanced menu  
This provides settings for the center marker, zebra  
pattern, viewfinder screen indications, and so forth.  
(See the section “Viewfinder Advanced Menu” on  
pages 86 to 92.)  
REC  
TAKE  
TCG 12:34:56:00  
W:A  
NG  
CLIPM  
198  
F5.6  
0dB  
3200  
:LOW LIGHT 00 04 01  
SS :1/100 10:00:00  
30-25 BATT:14.4V  
AM  
Switch by pressing the  
MENU switch down or  
press and turn the  
MENU dial downward.  
Page 1a)  
Changing the Viewfinder Display  
mA.IRIS : ± 0  
DTL LEV: ± 0  
M.BLACK: ± 0  
STRETCH: ± 0  
SHUTTER: OFF  
Use the dial and switches shown in the following  
figure to switch the viewfinder display among the  
normal indications, basic menu pages and advanced  
menu pages.  
Page 2  
m
SKIN DTL: OFF  
DL LEV : STD  
PRE WHT : 3200  
Basic menu  
Page 9b)  
MENU dial  
POWER switch  
MENU switch  
m
TITLE IND(  
YES  
m
PUSH)  
Displaying the normal indications and  
switching to the basic menu  
a) If you set MENU MODE to 2 on the advanced menu page 9,  
the menu for selecting the 16:9/4:3 mode is added before the  
basic menu page 1.  
b) The menu configuration differs according to the camcorder’s  
switch settings, the connected VCR, and the type of input  
signal. A nine-page configuration results when all of the basic  
menu pages are displayed.  
To display the normal indications, move the POWER  
switch to the ON position.  
To switch to and from the basic menu, use the MENU  
switch or MENU dial.  
“CHECK DIAG” appears before basic menu page 1  
when the self diagnostic function has detected an  
abnormality. (see page 85.)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
75  
Viewfinder Normal Indications  
During normal operation, the following items can be  
indicated in the viewfinder.  
1 VCR operation status indication  
qs VCR warning indication  
qd External VCR status  
indication c)  
2 TAKE/CUE indication  
REC TAPE NEAR END REC2  
TAKE  
qf VCR recording mode  
3 Recording time or time data  
indication a)  
TCG 12:34:56:00 PARA  
indication c)  
4 NG indication  
qg White balance indication  
W:A  
NG  
CLIPM  
198  
AUTO BLACK  
-OK-  
SKIN  
EVS  
5 Clip mode indication  
qh SKIN DTL indication  
qj EVS indication  
F5.6  
6 Clip remaining indication  
DRP 18dB  
56ND  
EZ FOCUS  
qk Lens f-stop indication a)  
ql Gain indication a)  
7 Status display area  
:LOW LIGHT 00 04 01  
SS :1/100 10:00:00  
30-25 BATT:14.4V  
AM  
8 EZ FOCUS indication  
w; Filter setting indication a)  
wa Clock indication a), b)  
ws Voltage/error indication  
9 LOW LIGHT indication a)  
0 Audio recording level indicators a)  
wd Shutter setting indication a)  
qa Tape remaining indication a)  
a) Whether or not to display can be selected by menu setting.  
b) This is recorded over the picture being shot.  
c) Displayed only when an external VCR is connected  
• When the REC TIME switch is in the DUR position:  
The duration of the current recording cut.  
• When the REC TIME switch is in the OFF position  
and the item TC IND in advanced menu page 6 is set  
to “ON”: A time data value depending on the  
DISPLAY switch settings as shown in the following  
table.  
The significance of each of the indications shown in  
the figure is as follows.  
1 VCR operation status indication  
This indicates the VCR’s current operation status  
(REC, PLAY, etc.).  
2 TAKE/CUE indication  
DISPLAY switch  
setting  
Time data displayed  
This displays a TAKE or CUE indication when using  
the ClipLink function for recording.  
TAKE: When recording in Mark mode, this  
indication appears when a Mark IN point is set  
and disappears when the next Mark OUT point is  
set.  
COUNTER  
TC  
CNT: Tape transport time  
TCG: a time code from the time code  
generator  
TCR: a time code from the time code  
reader  
CUE: When recording in Cue mode, this indication  
appears for about 1 second when a Cue point is  
set.  
U-BIT  
UBG: a user bit value from the time  
code generator  
UBR: a user bit value from the time  
code reader  
3 Recording time or time data indication  
This shows the following values.  
Time data values appear during playback, fast forward,  
rewind, or recording review.  
• When the REC TIME switch is in the TTL position:  
The total recording time. (When an external VCR is  
connected, you can select whether to show the  
recording time of the internal VCR or of the external  
VCR using advanced menu page 4. See page 89 for  
more information.)  
4 NG indication  
An “NG” (No Good) indication appears if you  
designate a recorded scene as “NG” when using the  
ClipLink function for recording.  
76  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
5 Clip mode indication  
qa Tape remaining indication  
A “CLIP M” or “CLIP C” indication appears when  
you use the ClipLink function for recording.  
CLIP M: Indicates shooting in Mark mode  
CLIP C: Indicates shooting in Cue mode  
This shows the tape remaining as follows.  
Indication  
F-30  
Tape remaining  
At least 30 minutes  
25 - 30 minutes  
20 - 25 minutes  
15 - 20 minutes  
10 - 15 minutes  
5 - 10 minutes  
2 - 5 minutes  
30-25  
6 Clip remaining indication  
The number of available clips is displayed when you  
use the ClipLink function for recording.  
25-20  
20-15  
15-10  
10-5  
7 Status display area  
5-0  
One of the following values or messages is displayed  
to indicate the camcorder’s current status or its  
operation status.  
5-0 (flashing)  
0 - 2 minutes  
• New values when changing camcorder’s settings  
• Messages indicating progress or results of  
adjustments  
qs VCR warning indication  
This shows warning indications about operation or  
status of the VCR.  
• The camcorder’s current settings  
• SetupLog data recorded to a tape during shooting (see  
page 101)  
Indication  
NO TAPE  
Meaning  
There is no tape loaded.  
REC INHIBIT  
The tape is in the recording inhibited  
state.  
8 EZ FOCUS indication  
This appears when the EZ FOCUS button is pressed,  
enabling the “easy focus” function.  
The battery is almost exhausted.  
The battery is exhausted.  
LOW BATT  
BATT END  
TAPE NEAR END The tape is near the end.  
TAPE END  
SERVO  
HUMID  
RF  
The tape is at the end.  
Note  
The status indication is not shown while this indication  
appears.  
The servo lock has been lost.  
There is condensation.  
The video heads are clogged, or there  
is some other fault in the recording  
system.  
9 LOW LIGHT indication  
This warning appears if the lighting level is  
inadequate.  
The tape is not wound properly.  
SLACK  
MP TAPE  
An incorrect type of cassette has been  
loaded. (The cassette is automatically  
ejected and the indication disappears  
in about two seconds.)  
0 Audio recording level indicators  
These show the recording levels of audio channels 1  
and 2.  
CLIP DATA ERR  
Abnormality of ClipLink log data in the  
cassette memory data.  
AUDIO 48kHz?  
(4 flashes/s)  
At back space editing, you are  
switching from 32 kHz audio recording  
mode (4-channel mode) to 48 kHz  
audio recording mode (2-channel  
mode).  
Channel 1  
Channel 2  
AUDIO 32kHz?  
(4 flashes/s)  
At back space editing, you are  
switching from 48 kHz audio recording  
mode (2-channel mode) to 32 kHz  
audio recording mode (4-channel  
mode).  
– ∞  
–2 dB  
0 dB  
ERROR:91-13F  
Failure in loading or saving the  
cassette memory data.  
(Continued)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
77  
Viewfinder Normal Indications  
qj EVS indication  
Indication  
Meaning  
This appears when the EVS (Enhanced Vertical  
definition System) function is enabled. (See page  
116.)  
CLIP CONT?  
Asking whether you will continue  
shooting in ClipLink mode or not when  
the cassette contains ClipLink data.  
(The indication disappears when you  
press the ClipLink CONTINUE button  
or start the next shooting without  
pressing it.)  
qk Lens f-stop indication  
This shows the f-stop of the lens.  
CLIP NEAR END At ClipLink shooting, capacity for only  
1 to 3 clips remains.  
Note  
CLIP END  
Impossible to record any more clip  
shots.  
Depending on the lens being used, this indication may  
differ slightly from the actual f-stop on the lens.  
ql Gain indication  
Note  
This shows the gain value, and the settings of the  
HYPER GAIN switch (see page 88) and the DPR  
(Dual Pixel Readout) function as shown in the  
following table.  
If the message appears other than above, contact your  
Sony dealer.  
qd External VCR (connected to the VTR connector  
(26-pin)) status indication (when an external  
VCR is connected)  
Example indication Meaning  
18 dB  
Gain setting is 18 dB.  
Shows the external VCR operation status.  
DPR 18 dB  
The DPR function is enabled.  
In this case the DPR function  
approximately doubles the gain (an  
increase of 6 dB) over the current  
gain setting (in this case 18 dB).  
qf VCR (connected to the VTR connector (26-pin))  
recording mode indication (when an external  
VCR is connected)  
Shows recording mode of the internal and external  
VCRs set by the VTR TRIGGER switch.  
HYPER  
The HYPER GAIN switch is in the  
ON position.  
In this case, the hyper gain function  
increases the gain about 60 times  
(36 dB) for 0 dB regardless of the  
current gain setting. You can also  
increase the gain about 120 times  
(42 dB) by switching the menu.  
Meaning  
Indication  
PARA  
Simultaneous recording of the internal  
and external VCRs  
INT  
Recording on the internal VCR  
Recording on the external VCR  
w; Filter setting indication  
This shows the setting of the FILTER control.  
EXT  
Indication  
3200  
Filter setting  
qg White balance indication  
The following indications appear.  
1 (3200K)  
56ND  
2 (5600K + 1/8ND)  
3 (5600K)  
4 (5600K + 1/64ND)  
Indication Meaning  
5600  
EZ  
Operating in EZ mode (The ATW function is  
selected.)  
56ND  
ATW  
The ATW function is selected (The ATW  
button was pressed and the indication is lit.)  
wa Clock indication  
The clock indication is shown in one of the following  
ways (according to the CLOCK IND setting of OFF,  
CAM, or BARS in advanced menu page 8). (See page  
91.)  
W:A  
W:B  
W:P  
W:M  
White balance memory A is selected.  
White balance memory B is selected.  
Preset white balance is selected.  
Manual adjustment is performed remotely.  
OFF: Not displayed.  
CAM: Always displayed.  
BARS: Displayed whenever color bars are  
displayed.  
If the clock indication is displayed during recording, it  
is recorded onto the image.  
qh SKIN DTL indication  
This appears when the skin detail function is activated  
(The SKIN DTL switch is set ON.)  
78  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
ws Voltage/error indication  
Status Indications  
The current voltage is displayed whenever the power  
supply voltage dips below 11.3 V DC. However, you  
can also display the current voltage at any time by  
pressing and holding the MENU switch in the upward  
position (the display is shown for as long as you hold  
the switch upward).  
If you set the MENU switch to STATUS while a menu  
is being displayed, the camcorder’s current setting  
status will be shown in this display area.  
An error message is displayed when an abnormality  
has been detected by the auto diagnostic function  
(page 85). If there is a voltage drop below 11.3 V DC  
and an error has been detected, the low voltage  
indication alternates at one-second intervals with the  
error indication.  
WHITE : A 3200K  
A.IRIS: STD  
FILE : STDa)  
a)  
DCC+ : OFF  
SS :OFF  
BATT:14.4V  
If an error message appears, contact your Sony dealer.  
a) When both the DCC+ and DynaLatitude  
functions are set to OFF  
If using an Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System  
The remaining battery capacity is shown as a  
percentage.  
Display  
Description  
WHITE  
White balance adjustment method  
selection (PRE/A/B) and color  
temperature during auto white  
balance adjustment  
wd Shutter setting indication  
When the SHUTTER switch has been set to ON, the  
basic menu page 1 setting for the item SHUTTER  
(shutter speed, CLS frequency, EVS) is displayed here.  
A.IRIS  
Iris adjustment method selection  
(STD/SPOT L/BACK L)  
SETUP FILE  
DCC+ or DL  
Setting of the SETUP switch (page  
22)  
For DCC+ indication: ON with the  
OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch set to  
CAM/DCC+ (DCC+ ON), and OFF  
with the switch set to CAM/DL and DL  
in advanced menu page 2 (page 88)  
set to OFF (both DCC+ and  
DynaLatitude OFF).  
For DL indication: When setting the  
OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to DL and  
DL in advanced menu page 2 to OFF  
(DynaLatitude OFF), LOW, STD or  
HIGH is displayed according to DL  
LEV setting in basic menu page 2  
(page 81).  
Note  
Status indicators will not be displayed during EZ  
mode.  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
79  
Viewfinder Basic Menu  
To display the basic menu pages, press the MENU  
switch downward (to ON position) or press the MENU  
dial while the normal indications are being shown in  
the viewfinder. The basic menu configuration can  
include up to nine pages. (The configuration depends  
on the switch settings.)  
Contents and Settings of Each  
Menu Page  
Each page’s contents and settings are described below.  
Basic menu page 1  
Basic Menu Operations  
The common operations on all basic menu pages are  
described below.  
mA.IRIS : ± 0  
DTL LEV: ± 0  
M.BLACK: ± 0  
STRETCH: ± 0  
SHUTTER: OFF  
To change the page or item  
The cursor is moved downward each time you press  
the MENU switch down. Once the cursor has reached  
the last item on a page, press down the MENU switch  
to go to the next page. When the last page is being  
displayed, pressing down the MENU switch returns  
the display to the normal indications.  
Item  
Settings  
A. IRIS  
Sets a base value +1.0  
for auto adjustment Negative adjustment values set a  
of lens iris.  
–1.0, –0.5, ±0 (normal value), +0.5,  
narrower lens iris and positive values  
set a wider lens iris.  
The cursor is moved upward each time you press up  
the MENU switch. Once the cursor has reached the  
first item on a page, pressing up the MENU switch  
returns the display to the normal indications.  
The cursor starts blinking when you press the MENU  
dial. In this state, you can change the page or item by  
turning the MENU dial.  
DTL LEV  
Sets the detail  
(edge) emphasis.  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to +99  
Negative adjustment values soften the  
image’s edges and positive values  
sharpen them.  
M. BLACK  
Sets the master  
pedestal level.  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to +99  
Negative adjustment values make  
dark areas of the picture darker and  
increase the contrast. Positive  
adjustment values dark areas of the  
picture lighter and reduce the  
contrast.  
STRETCH  
–16 to ±0 (normal value) to +15  
To change settings  
Sets black stretch/ This function adjusts the intensity of  
compress value.  
dark areas of the screen. Negative  
values make these areas darker  
(black compress) and positive values  
make these areas brighter (black  
stretch).  
Align the cursor to the desired item using the MENU  
switch and turn the MENU dial.  
You can change settings only with the MENU dial.  
Press and turn the MENU dial to align the cursor to the  
desired item and press the MENU dial.  
To reset any item to its shipped settings, press the  
MENU dial for 2 seconds.  
SHUTTER  
DSR-500WSL: 1/100 (normal  
value), 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000,  
1/2000, EVS, CLS (60.4 Hz to  
200.3 Hz)  
Sets shutter speed  
or CLS/EVS  
setting. (see page  
116.)  
DSR-500WSPL 1/60 (normal value),  
:
1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, EVS,  
CLS (50.3 Hz to 201.4 Hz)  
This selects either the shutter speed,  
the scan frequency, or EVS for the  
clear scan function. When the  
SHUTTER switch is set to OFF, this  
item cannot be set.  
If you set MENU MODE to 2 on the advanced  
menu page 9, the menu for selecting the 16:9/  
4:3 mode is added before the basic menu  
page 1.  
80  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
Item  
Settings  
Basic menu page 2  
CAM (normal value)  
Records the signal shot by this camcorder.  
VIDEO  
IN  
Selects  
the  
EXT  
Records the signal input from the GEN LOCK IN/  
VIDEO IN connector. The image on the  
viewfinder and the signal output from the  
MONITOR OUT connector are switched to the  
external video signal. When inputting the external  
video signal, “EXT INPUT” blinks on the screen.  
signal  
to be  
m
SKIN DTL: OFF  
DL LEV : STD  
PRE WHT : 3200  
recorded  
onto the  
internal  
VCR.  
Item  
Settings  
SKIN DTL  
0.0 to 0.5 (normal value) to 1.0  
Sets the amount of Smaller values set a softer skin detail.  
skin detail  
EXT INPUT  
correction.  
DL LEV  
Sets the  
LOW, STD (normal value), HIGH  
Set the amount of DynaLatitude  
If you set VIDEO IN to EXT and input the external VBS  
signal from the GEN LOCK IN connector, the image in  
the viewfinder and the signal output from the  
MONITOR OUT connector are switched to the external  
video signal. When inputting the external video signal,  
“EXT INPUT” always blinks on the screen.  
DynaLatitude level. effects as high level, standard level  
(STD), or low level.  
PRE WHT  
When the filter is 3200 or CROSS:  
Sets the color  
2200 to 3200 (normal value) to 4300,  
temperature of the filter 5600K, 5600K + 1/8ND  
preset white  
balance.  
When the filter is 5600K + 1/64ND:  
4600 to 5600 (normal value) to 12000  
Notes  
• When VIDEO IN is set to EXT, the video signals are  
not output from the S VIDEO OUT connector.  
• When VIDEO IN is set to EXT, the basic menu page  
5 is not displayed.  
Basic menu page 3  
This is displayed when the SETUP switch has been set  
to FILE.  
Basic menu page 5  
This menu is displayed when CAM is selected on the  
basic menu page 4 and an external sync signal is input  
to the GEN LOCK IN connector.  
FILE:*FL  
m
SELECT FILE  
HISAT  
CHG FILE  
(YESmPUSH)  
m
SC PHASE: 000  
H PHASE: 135  
For details of this operation, see “Setup Files” (page 94).  
Basic menu page 4  
Item  
Settings  
This is displayed when the optional DSBK-501/501P  
Analog Composite Input Board is fitted to the  
camcorder.  
SC PHASE  
000 to 999  
Sub carrier phase adjustment for  
when the camcorder is genlocked.a)  
H PHASE  
000 to 135 (normal value)  
to 199  
Horizontal phase adjustment for  
when the camcorder is genlocked.a)  
m
VIDEO IN: CAM  
a) This applies when using an external sync signal to  
synchronize operation of several camcorders (see page 44).  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
81  
Viewfinder Basic Menu  
Basic menu page 6  
Basic menu page 7  
m
MARK/CUE: MARK  
CHG REEL NO.  
(YES PUSH)  
MARKER : ON  
m
DUR TIME:  
MM:SS  
00:00  
m
Item  
Settings  
MARK (normal value), CUE  
Item  
Settings  
MARK/CUE  
Selects Mark mode See “ClipLink Shooting” (page 68).  
or Cue mode  
MARKER  
Sets marker display ON/OFF.  
ON (normal value), OFF  
Markers are displayed  
when this setting is ON  
and is not displayed  
CHG REEL NO.  
Sets the cassette  
name/number  
See “To set the cassette name/  
number” below.  
when it is OFF.  
When the setting is ON,  
go to advanced menu  
page 4 to select the type  
of marker (see page 89).  
To set the cassette name/number  
DUR TIME  
Sets the recording time.  
Note  
00:00 to 59:59 (minute :  
second)  
When using a cassette without cassette memory, you  
cannot set the cassette name or number.  
Setting the recording time before  
shooting helps you with making  
scenes of equal duration.  
When shooting with displaying  
the recording time of the current  
cut in the viewfinder (with the  
REC TIME switch set to DUR),  
the recording time indication  
flashes to remind you that the  
recording time has passed.  
See “Setting the  
recording time in  
seconds”.  
1 Load a cassette.  
2 Press the MENU switch to move the cursor to  
CHG REEL NO., then press the MENU dial.  
MARK/CUE: MARK  
CHG REEL NO.  
(YES PUSH)  
Setting the recording time in seconds  
Move the cursor to DUR TIME, then press the MENU  
dial.  
m
m
A value of seconds appears.  
The cursor (→) changes to the text entry arrow (↓)  
and the current cassette name/number is displayed.  
(“NO TAPE” is displayed if you neglected to load  
a cassette.)  
MARKER : OFF  
m
DUR TIME:  
MM:SS  
00:25  
MARK/CUE: MARK  
CHG REEL NO.  
µ
If you turn the MENU dial when “59” is displayed, the  
number under “MM” increased by one.  
(ABC  
)
Current cassette  
name/number  
82  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
3 Turn the MENU dial until the desired character  
Basic menu pages 8 and 9  
appears, and press it.  
You can create a title of up to four lines, each of  
twelve alphanumeric or punctuation characters, and  
then save it. It is then possible to record the title over  
the picture while shooting.  
The character cycles through the following  
sequence.  
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ0123456789?;x/: -.,  
(Space)  
Note  
4 Turn the MENU dial to move the text entry arrow.  
You cannot set the skin detail correction while a title is  
displayed.  
5 Return to step 3 and repeat the text entry  
procedure.  
Entering the title (basic menu page 8)  
6 After completing text entry, move the text entry  
1 Press the MENU switch or turn the MENU dial as  
necessary to display basic menu page 8 (title  
setting display) in the viewfinder.  
cursor to the parenthesis position.  
The display changes as follows.  
m
TITLE SET(  
YES  
m
PUSH)  
MARK/CUE: MARK  
CHG REEL NO.  
m
WRITE(YES  
(DEF  
m
PUSH)  
)
If a title is already present, it appears on this  
screen.  
7 Check your cassette name/number setting, and  
press the MENU dial if no more changes are  
required. (To make changes or to abort the  
procedure for this setting, return to step 2.)  
2 Press and turn the MENU dial until the desired  
character appears.  
This writes the new cassette name/number to the  
cassette memory, after which the display changes  
as follows.  
The character cycles through the following  
sequence.  
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ0123456789?;x/: -.,  
(Space)  
Press the MENU dial when the desired character  
appears.  
MARK/CUE: MARK  
CHG REEL NO.  
DONE  
m
(Continued)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
83  
Viewfinder Basic Menu  
To record a title (basic menu page 9)  
3 Press the MENU dial.  
1 Access basic menu page 9 (title display).  
This brings up the cursor on the screen, and  
switches to cursor transport mode.  
Initial cursor position  
m
TITLE IND(  
YES  
m
PUSH)  
EXIT(  
YES  
m
PUSH)  
2 Press the MENU dial once.  
The title is superimposed to the picture displayed  
on the viewfinder screen.  
4 Turn the MENU dial to move the cursor to the  
position where you wish to insert a character.  
3 Start shooting.  
To reverse the direction, turn the dial in the  
opposite direction.  
4 To stop the title recording, press the MENU switch  
or MENU dial to clear the title display.  
5 Repeat steps 2 to 4 until the title is complete.  
m
EXIT(YES  
DSR-500  
m
PUSH)  
6 Align the cursor to EXIT and press the MENU  
dial.  
This displays basic menu page 8 again.  
The title created is retained, even when you power  
the camcorder off.  
84  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
When “CHECK DIAG” is displayed  
The “CHECK DIAG” indication appears in the status  
display area whenever the camcorder’s automatic self  
diagnostic function detects an abnormality. Access  
this page and perform error checking. (This page is  
displayed as basic menu page 1.)  
“CHECK DIAG” will also be displayed if there is a  
problem on the sync signal input to the GEN LOCK  
IN connector. Input a proper sync signal and then  
perform error checking.  
CHECK DIAG  
(YESmPUSH)  
To perform error checking  
Press the MENU dial.  
The error checking performs on the digital signal  
processing (DSP) and memory circuits and the results  
are displayed.  
When no error is detected, “OK” appears.  
Example: If an abnormality is detected in the DSP  
circuit.  
DIAGNOSIS  
DSP : ERROR  
MEMORY: OK  
DIAG ERROR  
The error message “DIAG ERROR” appears when the  
normal indications are displayed. If this message  
appears, contact your Sony dealer.  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
85  
Viewfinder Advanced Menu  
Advanced Menu Operations  
See also the figure on next page.  
To display the advanced menu  
Move the POWER switch to the ON position while  
holding down the MENU dial.  
To change the page  
Align the cursor to the page number and press the  
MENU dial so that the page number is blinking. Turn  
the dial until the desired page.  
To select items in a page  
Press the MENU dial to blink the cursor, and press the  
MENU switch to move the cursor among the menu  
items. While the cursor is blinking, you can move the  
cursor by turning the MENU dial.  
To change settings  
This operation is the same as for the basic menus.  
For a description of basic menu operations, see  
page 80.  
To reinitialize all settings in the advanced  
menu to their factory defaults  
1) Align the cursor to ALL RESET and press the  
MENU dial. (The indication changes to “ALL  
RESET SURE?”.)  
2) Press the MENU dial again. (The indication  
changes to “ALL RESET OK” and  
reinitialization completes.) To cancel the  
reinitialization, turn the MENU dial (without  
pressing).  
86  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
TCG 12:34:56:00  
Normal indications  
W:A  
CLIPM  
198  
Move the POWER switch to  
the ON position with the  
MENU dial held down.  
F5.6  
0dB  
3200  
00 04 01  
SS :1/100 10:00:00  
AM  
Turn the MENU dial.a)  
Advanced menu  
page 2c)  
Advanced  
menu page 1  
m
PAGE1 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
PAGE2 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
Press the  
ALL RESET  
(YES  
GAIN  
LOW  
MID  
HIGH : 18dB  
HYPER: 36dB  
MENU dial.b)  
m
PUSH)  
:
:
OdB  
9dB  
DL  
: ON  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YES  
m
PUSH)  
Align the cursor to  
“ALL RESET” and  
press the MENU dial.  
Turn the  
Advanced menu  
page 3c)  
Confirmation  
screen  
MENU dial.a)  
PAGE1 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
PAGE3 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
Turn the MENU dial  
(to cancel resetting).  
Press the  
m
ALL RESET SURE?  
(YES PUSH)  
AWB MEM : 2  
TONE : ON  
BARS : SMPTE  
MENU dial.b)  
m
REMOTE1 : REC  
REMOTE2 : MARK  
BAUD RATE: 38400  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Press the MENU dial  
(to cancel resetting).  
Turn the  
PAGE1 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
MENU dial.a)  
m
ALL RESET OK!  
Turn the MENU dial.  
Advanced menu  
page 9c)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
m
PAGE9 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
16:9/4:3 : 16:9  
WIDE ID : ON  
VF SCAN : AUTO  
MENU MODE: 1  
Turn the MENU dial.a)  
a) Set the cursor to the page number (blinking) and turn the MENU  
dial.  
b) Set the cursor to EXIT MENU and press the MENU dial.  
c) The menu configuration differs according to the connected  
accessories (remote control unit), input signal, or setting of the  
switches, etc. (Some pages or items may not be displayed.)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Press the  
MENU dial.b)  
Contents and Settings of Each Menu Page  
Each page’s contents and settings are described below.  
For details of this operation, see “Advanced Menu  
Operations” (page 86).  
Advanced menu page 1  
PAGE1 (NEXT  
ALL RESET  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
Use this page to return all menu settings to their  
factory preset values.  
m
(YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
87  
Viewfinder Advanced Menu  
Advanced menu page 3  
Advanced menu page 2  
PAGE3 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
PAGE2 (NEXT  
GAIN  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
AWB MEM : 2  
TONE : ON  
BARS  
: SMPTEa)  
m
LOW  
: OdB  
REMOTE1 : REC  
REMOTE2 : MARK  
BAUD RATE: 38400  
MID : 9dB  
HIGH : 18dB  
HYPER: 36dB  
DL  
: ON  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YES  
m
PUSH)  
a) For DSR-500WSPL: EBU75  
Item  
Settings  
Settings  
Item  
AWB MEM  
2 (normal value): No  
Selects whether or not correspondence with FILTER  
to make the FILTER control settings. Only two  
control settings (1 to 4) adjustment values (A and B) are  
GAIN  
This sets gain values for the positions of the GAIN switch.  
The HIGH, MID, and LOW values must be set so that LOW  
< MID < HIGH.  
correspond to  
separate white  
balance adjustment  
values stored in  
memory.  
stored in memory.  
2 × 4FL: Correspondence with  
FILTER control settings. Each of  
the four control settings can be  
used to set A and B adjustment  
values, for a total of eight settings.  
LOW  
Sets the L position.  
–3 dB, 0 dB (normal  
value), 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB,  
12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB + DPR,  
24 dB  
MID  
0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB  
(normal value), 12 dB,  
18 dB, 18 dB + DPR, 24 dB,  
24 dB + DPR  
TONE  
ON (normal value): Outputs  
Sets the M position.  
Selects whether or not audio signal.  
to output a 1-kHz  
audio signal with the  
color bars when the  
OUTPUT/DL/DCC+  
has been set to  
BARS.  
OFF: Does not output audio  
signal.  
HIGH  
Sets the H position.  
3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB,  
18 dB (normal value),  
18 dB + DPR, 24 dB, 24 dB  
+ DPR, HYPER GAIN  
BARS  
SMPTE (normal value for DSR-  
500WSL): Normal width  
EBU75 (normal value for DSR-  
500WSPL): EBU 75%  
EBU100 (for DSR-500WSPL):  
EBU 100%  
SPLIT (for DSR-500WSPL): Not  
for normal operation  
SNG: Narrower than normal (used  
for satellite communications, etc.)  
HYPER  
Sets the HYPER position.  
36 dB (normal value),  
42 dB  
Selects normal width  
or narrower width for  
color bars.  
DL  
ON (normal value), OFF  
When set to ON, the amount  
of DynaLatitude effects is  
set in the basic menu page 2  
(see page 81). For details on  
the DynaLatitude function,  
see page 50.  
Sets DynaLatitude function  
ON/OFF. This setting is  
valid only when the  
OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch  
has been set to CAM/DL.  
REMOTE1  
REC (normal value): Specifies  
recording start/stop.  
MARK: Specifies a Mark IN/OUT  
Sets a function for  
switch 1 of the RM-  
LG1 connected to the  
REMOTE connector 1.  
point.  
CUE: Specifies a Cue point.  
NG: Specifies NG/OK.  
REMOTE2  
REC: Specifies recording start/stop.  
MARK (normal value): Specifies  
a Mark IN/OUT point.  
CUE: Specifies a Cue point.  
NG: Specifies NG/OK.  
Sets a function for  
switch 2 of the RM-  
LG1 connected to the  
REMOTE connector 1.  
BAUD RATE  
9600, 38400 (normal value)  
Sets a baud rate for a  
computer connected  
to the REMOTE  
connector 2 (to be  
supported in the future  
version).  
88  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
Settings  
Item  
LENS SEL  
Select the types of the lens.  
Advanced menu page 4  
1 (normal value), 2,3,4  
For details, see “Designating  
the lens” on page 121.  
PAGE4 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
MARKER : CENT/90%  
LIMITS : OFF  
m
ZEBRA  
: 1  
Advanced menu page 5  
ZEBRA1 : 70IREa)  
REC TIME: INT  
VF TALLY:  
LENS SEL: 1  
×
2
PAGE6 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
m
SS  
LL  
IRIS  
GAIN  
IND: ALWAYS  
IND: ON  
IND: ON  
a) For DSR-500WSPL: 70%  
IND: ON  
FILTER IND: ON  
WHITE IND: ON  
SKIN IND: ON  
Settings  
Item  
MARKER  
CENT/90% (normal value):  
Displays center marker and safety  
zone marker at 90% size.  
CENT/80%: Displays center  
marker and safety zone marker at  
80% size.  
Selects ON/OFF  
setting for center  
marker, size setting  
(percentage of  
viewfinder screen  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Item  
SS INDa)  
Settings  
3SEC: Displays shutter  
setting for three seconds only  
area), and display ON/ 90%: Displays only safety zone  
Selects the mode for  
OFF setting.  
marker at 90% size.  
80%: Displays only safety zone  
marker at 80% size.  
CENT: Displays only center  
marker.  
showing the shutter setting when the setting has been  
when displaying the normal changed.  
indications.  
ALWAYS (normal value):  
Displays the shutter setting at  
all times.  
LIMITS  
OFF (normal value): Displays the  
image inside the safety zone  
according to the scan size.  
4:3: Displays the image inside the  
4:3 safety zone during 16:9 scan  
size.  
14:9: Displays the image inside  
the 14:9 safety zone during 16:9  
scan size.  
LL INDa)  
ON (normal value):  
Displays.  
OFF: Not display.  
Selects whether or not to  
show the LOW LIGHT  
indication on the normal  
indications when inadequate  
lighting is detected.  
IRIS INDa)  
Selects whether or not to  
show the lens’s F-stop value OFF: Not display.  
(iris indication) on the  
normal indications. The F-  
stop value is always  
displayed when in EZ mode.  
ON (normal value):  
Displays.  
ZEBRA  
1 (normal value): Displays the  
Selects type of zebra zebra pattern over parts having a  
pattern display.  
video level. between 70 and 90  
IRE (or 70 and 90%).  
Use the next item (ZEBRA1) to  
select the base level.  
2: Displays the zebra pattern over  
parts having video levels of 100  
IRE or above (or 100% or above).  
1/2: Dual display (both 1 and 2)  
GAIN INDa)  
ON (normal value): Always  
displays.  
OFF: Displays for two  
seconds only when the  
setting has been changed.  
Selects whether or not to  
always show the gain  
setting indication on the  
normal indications.  
FILTER INDa)  
70 IRE (normal value) to 90 IRE  
or 70% (normal value) to 90%:  
Can be set for each IRE step or  
1% step.  
ZEBRA1  
Sets base level for  
zebra pattern 1.  
Selects whether or not to  
always show the FILTER  
control setting indication on  
the normal indications.  
The FILTER control setting  
indication is always  
displayed when in EZ mode.  
WHITE INDa)  
Selects whether or not to  
show the setting of the white  
balance switch.  
SKIN INDa)  
ON (normal value): Always  
displays.  
OFF: Displays for two  
seconds only when the  
setting has been changed.  
REC TIME  
INT (normal value): Recording  
time of the internal VCR  
EXT: Recording time of the  
external VCR connected to the  
VTR connector (26-pin).  
Selects whether to  
show the recording  
time (TTL) of the  
internal VCR or of the  
external VCR.  
ON (normal value): Displays.  
OFF: Not display.  
VF TALLY  
×1: Uses only the upper REC/  
TALLY indicator.  
×2 (normal value): Uses two  
REC/TALLY indicators.  
Selects whether or not  
to use more than one  
REC/TALLY indicators  
in the viewfinder  
(displayed only when  
the DXF-701WS/  
701WSCE viewfinder  
is attached).  
ON (normal value): Displays.  
OFF: Not display.  
Selects whether or not to  
show the setting for skin  
detail correction.  
a) When the viewfinder’s DISPLAY switch is set to OFF,  
indications related to these items are not displayed even  
when menu settings are set to ON.  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
89  
Viewfinder Advanced Menu  
3 Press and turn the MENU dial to enter the desired  
Advanced menu page 6  
characters.  
PAGE6 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
The displayed character changes as you turn the  
dial.  
m
AUDIO IND: ON  
TAPE IND: ON  
TC  
ID  
ID  
IND: ON  
IND: OFF  
SET:  
4 Return to step 2 and repeat the text entry  
(ABC  
)
procedure.  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
5 When you have finished entering the text, press  
and turn the MENU dial to move the cursor to the  
parenthesis position.  
Item  
AUDIO INDa)  
Selects whether or not to  
show the audio level  
indication on the normal  
indications.  
Settings  
ON (normal value):  
Displays.  
OFF: Not display.  
This clears the displayed menu and returns to the  
normal indications.  
TAPE INDa)  
ON (normal value):  
Displays.  
OFF: Not display.  
Selects whether or not to  
show the remaining tape  
indication on the normal  
indications.  
Advanced menu page 7  
PAGE7 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
TC INDa)  
Selects whether or not to  
show the time data indication OFF: Not display.  
ON (normal value):  
Displays.  
m
EZ MODE  
: CUSTOMa)  
A.IRIS-AGC: F2.8  
A.IRIS-AE : F16  
AGC LIMIT : 12dB  
on the normal indications.  
ID INDa)  
ON (normal value):  
Selects whether or not to  
Displays.  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
display the camera ID when OFF: Not display.  
displaying color bars.  
ID SETa)  
Sets the camera ID (up to  
eight characters, including  
alphanumeric, symbols, and  
spaces).  
a) At shipping, the EZ MODE is set to STD.  
See “To set the camera ID”  
on below.  
Item  
Settings  
EZ MODE  
STD (normal value):  
When the EZ MODE button Changes settings to  
has been set to EZ mode standard settings.  
ON, this selects whether or CUSTOM: Changes only  
not to change the settings of some settings to standard  
other switches and menus to settings.  
a) When the viewfinder’s DISPLAY switch is set to OFF,  
indications related to these items are not displayed even  
when menu settings are set to ON.  
the standard settings. (The For details of the settings  
EZ mode function cannot be when STD or CUSTOM is  
To set the camera ID  
used during remote  
operation.)  
specified, see “EZ mode  
settings” on next page.  
1 Press the MENU switch or turn the MENU dial to  
move the cursor to ID SET.  
A.IRIS-AGC  
Selects auto iris adjustment F4, F5.6  
F1.8, F2.8 (normal value),  
The cursor (→) changes to the text entry arrow (↓).  
which sets an F-stop value  
that can be switched to AGC  
(displayed only when the EZ  
MODE is set to CUSTOM).  
PAGE6 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
AUDIO IND: ON  
TAPE IND: ON  
Current camera ID  
TC  
ID  
ID  
IND: ON  
IND: OFF  
SET:  
(ABC  
A.IRIS-AE  
F5.6 , F8, F11, F16 (normal  
Selects auto iris adjustment value)  
which sets an F-stop value  
that can be switched to AE  
(displayed only when the EZ  
MODE is set to CUSTOM).  
µ
)
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
AGC LIMIT  
0, 3, 6, 9, 12 dB (normal  
2 Press and turn the MENU dial to move the text  
Sets an upper limit value for value)  
AGC adjustment (displayed  
only when the EZ MODE is  
set to CUSTOM).  
entry arrow.  
Turn the MENU dial downward to move the cursor  
to the right, or upward to move it to the left.  
90  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
EZ mode settings  
The following settings are set for the camcorder when  
EZ mode has been selected.  
Advanced menu page 8  
PAGE8 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
Item  
Settings  
STD  
STD  
±0  
(SET CLOCK W/ VTR)  
CLOCK IND: OFF  
DATE MODE: YY MM DD  
TIME MODE: 12hours  
CUSTOM  
Selectable  
Selectable  
Selectable  
Selectable  
OFF  
m
Setup file  
Detail level  
Master black  
Black stretch  
Skin detail  
Shutter  
±0  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
±0  
OFF  
OFF (AE mode) OFF (AE mode)  
Item  
Settings  
Freeze mix  
Gain  
OFF  
OFF  
CLOCK IND  
Selects whether or not to  
display the date/time on the CAM: Displays.  
normal indications.  
OFF (normal value): Not  
display.  
AGC mode  
OFF  
AGC mode  
OFF  
Hyper gain  
BARS: Displays only when  
color bars are displayed.  
Iris control method Automatic  
Automatic  
STD  
DATE MODE  
Selects the date display  
format.  
YY MM DD (normal  
value): Year/month/day  
MM DD YY : Month/day/  
year  
DD MM YY : Day/month/  
year  
Auto iris control  
mode  
STD  
Iris override  
±0  
Selectable  
Not output  
Selectable  
Selectable  
Selectable  
ON  
Color bar output  
AGC upper limit  
Not output  
12dB  
TIME MODE  
12hours: 12-hour clock  
24hours (normal value):  
24-hour clock  
AGC’s F-stop value F2.8  
Selects whether to display a  
12-hour clock (showing A.M.  
and P.M. hours) or a 24-hour  
clock.  
AE’s F-stop value  
ATW  
F16  
ON  
DynaLatitude  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
DCC+  
ON  
Note  
F-stop value  
indication  
Use the VCR menu to set the date and time (see page  
ON  
ON  
105).  
Filter indication  
Clock indication  
ON  
ON  
OFF  
OFF  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
91  
Viewfinder Advanced Menu  
Advanced menu page 9  
Advanced menu pages 10 to 13  
These pages are displayed only when the SETUP  
switch has been to FILE.  
PAGE9 (NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
16:9/4:3 : 16:9  
WIDE ID : ON  
VF SCAN : AUTO  
MENU MODE: 1  
For details of this operation, see “Setup Files” (page 94).  
Advanced menu pages 14 and 15  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
These pages are displayed only when the SETUP  
switch has been to FILE.  
Item  
Settings  
For details of this operation, see “Using SetupNavi and  
SetupLog” (page 99).  
16:9/4:3  
16:9 (normal value)  
4:3 a)  
Selects whether to put  
the camera in 16:9  
mode or 4:3 mode.  
WIDE ID  
ON (normal value): Adds.  
Selects whether or not  
to add a wide aspect ID  
signal to video output  
signals in 16:9 mode.  
OFF: Does not add.  
VF SCAN  
AUTO (normal value):  
Automatically switch to 16:9 size  
when the camera is in 16:9  
mode, and automatically switch  
to 4:3 size when the camera is in  
4:3 mode.a)  
Selects 16:9 or 4:3 as  
the viewfinder scan size  
when using the supplied  
DXF-701WS/701WSCE  
Viewfinder.  
FULL: Regardless of camera’s  
mode (16:9b) or 4:3), the  
viewfinder picture completely fills  
the display area.  
MENU MODE  
Selects whether or not  
switch the mode (16:9/  
1 (normal value): Selects the  
16:9 or 4:3 mode only with the  
advanced menu.  
4:3) on the basic menu. 2: Selects the 16:9 or 4:3 mode  
with both the basic and advanced  
menus.  
a) Compared to 16:9 mode, the 4:3 mode video appears as  
if a zoom lens has been adjusted slightly toward the  
telephoto end (see figure on next page).  
b) When the camera is in 16:9 mode, the viewfinder picture  
appears stretched vertically (see figure on next page).  
92  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
Video Output and Viewfinder Picture  
The video output and viewfinder picture of this camera vary as shown below according to the settings of the 16:9/  
4:3 item and the VF SCAN item of the advanced menu page 9.  
Subject  
Item  
Settings  
16:9  
2
/
3-inch optics  
16:9/4:3  
VF SCAN  
AUTO  
The camera outputs 16:9 video.  
The scan size of the viewfinder  
picture is 16:9 size.  
Viewfinder picture  
Item  
Settings  
16:9/4:3  
VF SCAN  
16:9  
4:3 effective area  
FULL  
The camera outputs 16:9 video.  
The viewfinder picture is 16:9  
video that has been stretched  
vertically to completely fill the  
display area.  
16:9 effective area  
Viewfinder picture  
Item  
Settings  
4:3  
16:9/4:3  
VF SCAN  
AUTO or FULL  
The camera outputs 4:3 video that  
has been electronically extracted  
from the effective area of the 16:9  
aspect ratio. Compared to 16:9  
video, this video appears as if a  
zoom lens has been adjusted  
slightly toward the telephoto end.  
The picture in the viewfinder is 4:3  
video, which completely fills the  
display area.  
Viewfinder picture  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
93  
Setup Files  
You can use setup files to reproduce a particular  
configuration of settings. You can also revise the  
contents of setup files.  
3 Move the cursor to SELECT FILE with the MENU  
switch and use the MENU dial to select the desired  
file.  
There are eight types of setup files, of which five are  
factory preset setup files and the other three are user  
files.  
FILE:*HISAT  
m
SELECT FILE  
FL  
CHG FILE  
Note on using an RM-M7G Remote Control Unit  
When an RM-M7G is connected to the camcorder, the  
setup file function cannot be used.  
(YESmPUSH)  
To make it possible to use this function, power OFF  
the camcorder after disconnecting the RM-M7G, then  
power ON the camcorder again.  
File  
Description  
STD  
Settings for shooting under  
standard conditions  
HISAT  
Settings for making pictures  
vivid  
Calling up a Setup File  
FL  
Settings for shooting under  
fluorescent lighting  
This describes how to call up a setup file and use it to  
replace the current menu settings.  
Settings for making pictures  
like ones shot by film camera  
FILMLIKE  
SVHS/VHS  
1 Set the SETUP switch to FILE.  
Settings to optimize camera  
image for recording and  
playback characteristics of S-  
VHS, VHS, or Hi-8 tape  
USER1 to USER3  
User setup files (set to STD at  
shipping)  
4 Move the cursor to CHG FILE and press the  
MENU dial.  
The display changes as shown below and the  
selected file is called up.  
SETUP switch  
The camcorder is set according to the currently-  
selected file data.  
FILE: FL  
SELECT FILE  
FL  
CHG FILE  
DONE  
m
2 Access basic menu page 3.  
MIX OFF (YESmPUSH)  
Current file a)  
You can also call up these files via a similar operation  
in advanced menu page 10. In this page, a file  
recorded onto a tape can also be called up.  
FILE:*HISAT  
m
SELECT FILE  
HISAT  
CHG FILE  
Selected file  
(YESmPUSH)  
For details, see “To call up files recorded onto a tape ”  
(page 95).  
a) An asterisk (*) appears in front of any factory preset  
file whose contents have been revised at least once.  
94  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
5 Press the MENU dial to call up the file. To abort  
the call up operation, press the MENU switch (the  
display returns to the one shown in step 3).  
To call up files recorded onto a tape  
Load the cassette that contains the recorded files.  
1 Set the SETUP switch to FILE.  
During the call up operation, the following display  
appears.  
2 Access advanced menu page 10.  
PAGE10(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
PAGE10(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE RECALL  
FILE:*HISAT  
SELECT FILE  
TAPE  
FILE RECALL  
FILE:*HISAT  
SELECT FILE  
HISAT  
CHG FILE  
(YESmPUSH)  
SETUP FILE: USER2  
EXIT MENU (YES PUSH)  
m
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
When the call up operation ends, the display  
changes as shown below.  
3 Move the cursor to SELECT FILE with the MENU  
switch and move the MENU dial to select TAPE.  
PAGE10(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
PAGE10(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE RECALL  
FILE:*HISAT  
SELECT FILE  
TAPE  
CHG FILE  
(YESmPUSH)  
FILE RECALL  
FILE: USER2  
SELECT FILE  
USER2  
CHG FILE  
DONE  
Name of file  
recorded onto  
tape  
m
m
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
The settings of the camcorder are now replaced by  
the settings in the called file.  
4 Move the cursor to CHG FILE and press the  
MENU dial.  
The screen appears as shown below.  
PAGE10(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE RECALL  
FILE:*HISAT  
SELECT FILE  
TAPE  
m
READY TAPE  
(YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
95  
Setup Files  
Page 12  
Changing File Settings  
Item  
Settings  
When using advanced menu page 11 or 12, you can  
change the settings about picture quality in setup files.  
(In basic menu page 1, a part of items are changeable.)  
The changes are accepted only until another file is  
called up, after which the original settings are restored.  
If you save the changes, store the modified file as one  
of the user files or record it in a cassette. (See the  
following section “Saving File Settings”.)  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to  
+99  
Negative adjustment values  
decrease the saturation and  
positive adjustment values  
increase the saturation.  
SAT  
Adjusts the saturation of the  
image.  
HUE  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to  
+99  
Adjusts the hue of the  
image.  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to  
+99  
Negative adjustment values  
decrease the saturation and  
positive adjustment values  
increase the saturation.  
SKIN SAT  
Adjusts the saturation in the  
specified area of the image.  
1 Perform the steps described in “To call up files  
recorded onto a tape” on page 95 to call up the  
selected file.  
SKIN HUE  
Adjusts the hue in the  
specified area of the image.  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to  
+99  
2 Access advanced menu page 11 or 12.  
m
PAGE11(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE ADJ 1  
FILE:*HISAT  
Saving File Settings  
Currently  
selected filea)  
M.BLACK : ± 0  
STRETCH : ± 0  
M.GAMMA : ± 0  
DTL LEV : +10  
V DTL LEV: -10  
Files whose settings have been changed for certain  
shooting conditions can be saved as a user file or onto  
a tape.  
DTL FREQ :  
EXIT MENU (YES  
M
m
PUSH)  
For details, see “To save setup files to a tape” (page 97).  
1 Set the SETUP switch to FILE.  
m
PAGE12(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE ADJ 2  
FILE:*HISAT  
Currently  
selected filea)  
SAT  
HUE  
:
:
± 0  
± 0  
SKIN SAT: ± 0  
SKIN HUE: ± 0  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
a) An asterisk (*) appears in front of any factory preset file  
whose contents have been revised at least once.  
3 Make the desired changes.  
Page 11  
SETUP switch  
Item  
Settings  
M.BLACK, STRETCH and  
DTL LEV  
See “Basic menu page 1”  
(page 80).  
2 Call up a setup file whose settings approximate the  
desired shooting conditions and then change some  
of the settings.  
M.GAMMA  
Adjusts the gamma curve.  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to  
+99  
–99 to ±0 (normal value) to  
+99  
V DTL LEV  
Adjusts the vertical detail.  
For details of this operation, see “Calling up a Setup  
File” (page 94), “Changing File Settings” above,  
“Basic Menu Operations” (pages 80 to 84), and  
“Advanced Menu Operations” (pages 86 to 92).  
DTL FREQ  
Adjusts the central frequency  
of the detail.  
LL, L, M (normal value), H,  
HH  
96  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
3 Access advanced menu page 13.  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
m
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
DESTINATION FILE  
USER1  
STORE FILE  
DONE  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
DESTINATION FILE  
USER1  
STORE FILE  
Currently  
m
selected filea)  
(YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
a) An asterisk (*) appears in front of any factory preset  
file whose contents have been revised at least once.  
To save setup files to a tape  
4 Move the cursor to DESTINATION FILE with the  
MENU switch and turn the MENU dial to select  
USER1, USER2, or USER3.  
Load the tape onto which the file will be recorded.  
1 Perform steps 1 to 4 of “Saving File Settings” and  
select TAPE as the file saving destination.  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
DESTINATION FILE  
USER1  
STORE FILE SURE?  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
DESTINATION FILE  
TAPE  
STORE FILE  
File in which  
current  
settings are  
to be stored  
m
(YESmPUSH)  
(YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
5 Move the cursor to STORE FILE? with the MENU  
switch and press the MENU dial.  
2 Move the cursor to STORE FILE? with the MENU  
The display changes as shown below.  
switch and press the MENU dial.  
The display changes as shown below.  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
DESTINATION FILE  
USER1  
STORE FILE SURE?  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
m
(YESmPUSH)  
DESTINATION FILE  
TAPE  
READY TAPE  
m
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
(YESmPUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
6 Press the MENU dial to store the file. To abort the  
save operation, press the MENU switch (the  
display returns to the one shown at step 4).  
When the save operation is finished, the display  
changes as shown below.  
(Continued)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
97  
Setup Files  
3 Press the MENU dial to store the file. To abort the  
save operation, press the MENU switch (the screen  
returns to the screen shown in step 2).  
The tape automatically rewinds and recording  
starts.  
The display changes as shown below. (“CAN  
NOT WRITE” appears on the screen if no tape is  
loaded or if the loaded tape is write-protected.)  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
DESTINATION FILE  
TAPE  
SETUP FILE:*HISAT  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
After the settings are stored, the following display  
appears.  
PAGE13(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
FILE STORE  
FILE:*HISAT  
DESTINATION FILE  
TAPE  
m
STORE FILE  
DONE  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
98  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
Using SetupNavi and SetupLog  
The SetupNavi function records a setting of the setup  
menu and setup files onto a tape, so that the same  
settings can be called up and used again or copied to  
another camera.  
The SetupLog function records a camera setting every  
few seconds at shooting and displays the recorded data  
in the viewfinder during playback.  
”NO TAPE” is displayed if you neglected to load a  
cassette.  
3 Move the cursor to RECALL DATA with the  
MENU switch to call up the data recorded on the  
tape. (Press the MENU switch to cancel.)  
The tape is rewound and playback starts. The  
display changes as follows and the call up  
operation begins.  
Note on using an RCP-TX7/RM-M7G Remote Control  
Unit  
When an RCP-TX7/RM-M7G is connected to the  
camcorder, you can use neither the SetupNavi function  
nor the SetupLog function.  
To make it possible to use these functions, power OFF  
the camcorder after disconnecting the RCP-TX7/RM-  
M7G, then power ON the camcorder again.  
PLAY  
PAGE14(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
SETUP NAVI  
TAPE  
CANCEL TO RECALL  
m
CAMERA  
m
(YESmPUSH)  
SETUP NAVI  
ABCDEFGHIJ  
Name of data  
being called up  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Setting Up the Camera Using  
Data Recorded on Tape  
To abort the call up operation while in progress  
Press the MENU dial.  
The procedure to replace camera’s menu settings with  
settings recorded onto video tape is described here.  
After the data has been read, the following display  
appears.  
1 Insert the cassette onto which the data was  
recorded. Set the SETUP switch to FILE, then set  
the POWER switch to ON while holding down the  
MENU dial.  
PAGE14(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
TAPE  
SURE TO RECALL  
(YES PUSH)  
m
CAMERA  
m
m
Advanced menu page 1 appears.  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
m
PAGE1 (NEXT  
ALL RESET  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
4 Press the MENU dial.  
(YESmPUSH)  
The previous menu settings are overwritten by the  
data recorded on the tape.  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
PAGE14(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
2 Turn the MENU dial until advanced menu page 14  
TAPE  
DONE  
m
CAMERA  
appears.  
m
For details of menu operation, see “Advanced Menu  
Operations” (page 86).  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
m
PAGE14(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
5 Change the menu settings if necessary.  
TAPE  
RECALL DATA  
(YES  
m
CAMERA  
m
PUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
99  
Using SetupNavi and SetupLog  
The cursor (c) changes to the text entry cursor (x).  
Recording the Menu Settings  
Onto a Tape  
PAGE15(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
1 Load the tape onto which the settings are to be  
CAMERA  
SURE TO STORE  
(YES PUSH)  
NAME SET  
m
TAPE  
recorded. Turn the camcorder power on.  
m
µ
(ABCDEFGHIJ)  
2 Make your basic menu settings.  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
For details of this operation, see “Basic Menu  
Operations” (page 80).  
8 Enter a name for the data.  
3 Again, set the POWER switch to ON while  
Moving the text entry cursor: Press the MENU  
switch down to move the cursor to the right,  
and press the MENU switch up to move the  
cursor to the left.  
holding down the MENU dial.  
4 Make your advanced menu settings.  
Selecting the character: Turn the MENU dial  
until the desired character appears.  
For details of this operation, see “Advanced Menu  
Operations” (page 86).  
5 Access advanced menu page 15 and move the  
9 After completing text entry, move the cursor to the  
cursor to STORE DATA.  
parenthesis position.  
The display changes as follows.  
m
PAGE15(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
CAMERA  
STORE DATA  
(YES  
m
TAPE  
PAGE15(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
PUSH)  
CAMERA  
m
SURE TO STORE  
TAPE  
m
(YES  
NAME SET  
(YES  
m
PUSH)  
PUSH)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
m
(ABCDEFGHIJ)  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
“NO TAPE” appears if you neglected to load a  
cassette.  
10Move the cursor to “SURE TO STORE?” and  
press the MENU dial (press the MENU switch to  
cancel).  
6 Press the MENU dial.  
The following display appears.  
The tape is rewound and the recording starts. The  
display changes as follows and the data recording  
begins.  
PAGE15(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
CAMERA  
SURE TO STORE  
m
TAPE  
m
(YES  
NAME SET  
(YES  
m
PUSH)  
PUSH)  
REC  
PAGE15(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
m
(ABCDEFGHIJ)  
SETUP NAVI  
CAMERA  
m
CANCEL TO STORE  
TAPE  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
m
(YESmPUSH)  
SETUP NAVI  
ABCDEFGHIJ  
Name of data  
being recorded  
7 Set the cursor to “NAME SET” and press the  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
MENU dial. (Press the MENU switch to cancel.)  
100  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
To abort the data recording while in progress  
Press the MENU dial.  
Each time you press upward the MENU switch, the  
status display cycles through the status pages and  
playback display in the order: page 2, page 3, the  
playback display (containing the current settings),  
and page 1.  
After the data has been recorded, the following  
display appears.  
Status display (page 2)  
PAGE15(NEXT  
SETUP NAVI  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
PLAY  
CAMERA  
DONE  
m
TAPE  
TCR 12:34:56:00  
m
SETUP LOG  
A.IRIS  
DTL LEV : ± 0  
M.BLACK : ± 0  
STRETCH : ± 0  
SS :1/100  
2/3  
: ± 0  
W:A  
F5.6  
0dB  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
3200  
Notes  
• It takes about three and a half minutes to record the  
data.  
• The former setupnavi data or the recorded contents of  
the tape are overwritten.  
Status display (page 3)  
PLAY  
TCR 12:34:56:00  
SETUP LOG  
3/3  
W:A  
Viewing SetupLog Data  
M.GAMMA : ± 0  
V DTL LEV: ± 0  
DTL FREQ :  
M
F5.6  
0dB  
SKIN SAT : ± 0  
SKIN HUE : ± 0  
SAT: ± 0  
The SetupLog function records camcorder settings  
every few seconds at shooting and displays the  
recorded data in the viewfinder during playback.  
3200  
HUE: ± 0  
Note  
Notes  
Setup log data is not displayed when external analog  
video signals are being recorded.  
• SetupLog data is not recorded while SetupNavi data  
or a setup file is being recorded onto the portion of a  
tape. (If you play back that portion of a tape  
containing SetupNavi data or a setup file, the data  
displayed in the setup display is not the SetupLog  
data of the playback picture.)  
To view the SetupLog Data, perform the following  
procedure.  
• In the following cases, changed settings that were not  
recorded may appear as blank settings.  
1 Turn the power on and load the tape that contains  
the recording to be viewed.  
– SetupLog data is overwritten at intervals of a few  
seconds during recording. If the settings are  
changed frequently for certain items, it may not  
always be recorded in time.  
2 Play back the tape.  
For details of playback operation, see page 61.  
– If the recording time is very short, recording may  
be ended before all of the data has been  
overwritten.  
3 Press the MENU switch upward (to STATUS  
position).  
The display changes to page 1 of the status display.  
PLAY  
TCR 12:34:56:00  
SETUP LOG  
WHITE  
A.IRIS  
FILE  
DCC+  
1/3  
: A 3200  
: STD  
: STD  
: ON  
W:A  
Settings during  
recording  
F5.6  
0dB  
SKIN DTL : OFF  
3200  
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus  
101  
Setting on the VCR Section — VCR Menu  
You can use the VCR menu for settings on the VCR  
section.  
Operation  
Menu No.  
101  
Reference  
Page 105  
Page 105  
Real time clock and calendar settings  
Cumulative hour counts:  
• Head drum operating hours  
• Tape transport hours  
201  
• Operating (power-on) hours  
Frame mode selection for time code (DSR-500WSL only)  
Battery capacity indication selection  
Standby-on period setting  
204  
206  
207  
210  
211  
212  
213  
214  
220  
221  
Page 105  
Page 106  
Page 106  
Page 107  
Page 109  
Page 109  
Page 110  
Page 110  
Page 111  
Page 111  
Use auto-check function  
Selection of ClipLink function  
Audio recording mode selection  
Audio reference level selection  
Fade-in/fade-out setting for the audio recording start and stop points  
Use setup add (DSR-500WSL only)  
Use setup remove (DSR-500WSL only)  
If you want to change the following setting, consult  
your Sony dealer.  
• Outputs the playback time code signals from the TC  
OUT connector during playback.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
103  
VCR Menu Operation  
Basic Operation  
Display window  
LIGHT  
ON  
WARNING  
RESET  
OVER dB OVER  
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK  
HOLD  
0
OFF  
-12  
-20  
H
MIN  
SEC  
FRM  
CL CONT IP  
CLIP  
TAPE  
BATT  
DIAG  
DISPLAY  
-30  
-40  
DVCAM  
COUNTER  
TC  
U-BIT  
E
F
Li  
-∞  
5
F
8
8
32k  
1
2
RF SERVO HUMID SLACK  
F
48k  
(MENU SET)  
2,4  
3,4  
1,6  
MENU  
ADVANCE  
SHIFT  
REC TIME SKIN DTL  
EXT VTR  
OUTPUT  
TTL  
DUR  
OFF  
ON  
OFF  
COMPONENT.  
VBS  
Y/C  
AUDIO LEVEL  
TTL RESET  
SET  
PRESET  
F-RUN  
MONITOR SELECT  
AUTO  
MAN  
VTR  
TRIGGER  
CH-1  
MIX  
CH-2  
EXT  
AUDIO SELECT  
REGEN  
SET  
R-RUN  
PARALLEL  
INT ONLY  
EXT ONLY  
CH-1  
CH-2  
LITHIUM BATT  
DATE/TIME  
AUDIO IN  
ClipLink  
CONTINUE  
HYPER  
GAIN  
SETUP FRONT MIC  
LOW CUT  
MONITOR OUT  
CHARACTER  
FRONT  
VJ MIC  
WRR  
ON  
OFF  
FILE  
STD  
ON  
OFF  
REAR  
ON  
OFF  
1 Press the MENU button.  
4 Change the settings.  
“DIAG” appears in the display window and the  
time data display in the display window switches  
to the menu display.  
Step  
Operation  
Select digit to be changed Press the SHIFT button.  
Change the value  
Press the ADVANCE  
button.  
101 1999  
5 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button.  
Menu No. (blinking)  
Year (factory-set to 1999)  
This records the new setting and returns to a  
blinking display of the menu number.  
2 Press the ADVANCE button repeatedly until the  
6 Press the MENU button.  
desired menu appears.  
This returns the display window to the display  
shown before the VCR menu.  
3 Press the SHIFT button.  
This shows the current settings for the menu  
selected by step 2.  
The setting can be changed for the digit that is  
blinking.  
To exit from changing settings  
Press the MENU button to close the menu.  
104  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
On the DSR-500WSL: Displayed in mmddyyyy  
format (Example: 10081999)  
On the DSR-500WSPL: Displayed in ddmmyyyy  
format (Example: 08101999)  
Menu 101 Setting the Real Time  
Clock and Calendar  
1 Display menu 101 and press the SHIFT button.  
The current calendar setting appears in the setting  
mode format (yyyymmdd).  
Example: October 8, 2000  
Menu 201 Checking the Total  
Operating (Power-On) Hours  
20001008  
1 Display menu 201 and press the SHIFT button.  
Blinking  
Pressing the SHIFT button cycles through the  
following display items.  
Note  
Indication  
Example  
A 0492Hr  
b 0480Hr  
C 0835Hr  
201 0492  
The first two digits of the year setting cannot be  
directly changed.  
Head drum operating hours  
Tape transport hours  
Total operating hours  
Menu number  
2 Use the SHIFT and ADVANCE buttons to set the  
desired date.  
If there are no more new settings to be made, go  
directly to step 5.  
2 Check the indication, then press the RESET/  
(MENU SET) button, and then the MENU button.  
3 Press the SHIFT button while the date display is  
This returns the display window to the display  
shown before the VCR menu.  
blinking (Example: 20001008).  
The current time (real time clock) setting is  
displayed.  
Example: 10:15:05 PM  
Menu 204 Selecting Frame Mode  
(DF/NDF) for Time Code (for  
DSR-500WSL Only)  
221505  
Blinking  
Select frame modes when setting the time code.  
Drop-frame mode (factory setting): When adjusting  
the discrepancy between time code value and real  
time  
4 Use the SHIFT and ADVANCE buttons to set the  
current time.  
Non-drop-frame mode: When you need not adjust  
the discrepancy between time code value and real  
time  
5 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button.  
This starts the clock advance operation.  
6 Press the MENU button.  
For details of time code settings, see page 64.  
This returns the display window to the display  
shown before the VCR menu.  
(Continued)  
The date set can be displayed in the time value  
indication (see page 62) in the following way.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
105  
VCR Menu Operation  
1 Display menu 204.  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
The menu number and the current frame mode  
setting are shown.  
2 Press the SHIFT button until the desired battery  
name is displayed, then press the ADVANCE  
button.  
Example: dF (drop-frame mode)  
Pressing the ADVANCE button cycles through the  
following indications.  
nI t LI t Antn t Auto  
204 dF  
Blinking  
Frame mode indication  
Indication  
Meaning  
Automatic detection of battery  
type.  
Auto  
(factory setting)  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
nI  
LI  
Indication for NP-1B/BP-90A  
battery is selected.  
Indication for BP-L40/L40A/L60/  
L60A/L90/L90A battery is  
selected.  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the frame mode  
start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button.  
Antn  
Indication for Anton Bauer  
Magnum battery is selecteda).  
This switches the frame mode display as shown  
below.  
Example: ndF (non-drop-frame mode)  
a) To use the Anton Bauer Magnum Battery System, a  
special battery mount developed by Anton Bauer  
Corporation is required.  
For details, contact an Anton Bauer dealer or your  
Sony dealer.  
204 ndF  
Blinking  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
The settings are recorded and the display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
The settings are recorded and the display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
Menu 207 Setting Standby-On  
Period  
Menu 206 Selecting Battery  
Capacity Indication  
At recording pause state or playback pause state, the  
camcorder waits for a certain standby-on period and  
then automatically switches to standby-off mode. This  
standby-on period can be set in advance.  
This selects the indication type of battery capacity.  
1 Display menu 206.  
The selected menu number is displayed, along with  
the name of the currently selected battery.  
Example: nI (Indication for the NP-1B/BP-90A)  
1 Display menu 207.  
The selected menu number is displayed, along with  
the current standby-on period setting (in minutes).  
206 nI  
Blinking  
Selected battery capacity  
indication  
106  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
Example: 8 minutes  
To perform the auto-check  
1 Display menu 210.  
207 08  
Blinking  
210 oFF  
Standby-on period  
Blinking  
Auto-check function  
indication  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the auto-check  
function indication (oFF) start blinking, then press  
the ADVANCE button to change the indication to  
“on”.  
2 Press the SHIFT button until the standby-on period  
starts blinking, then press the ADVANCE button.  
Each press of the ADVANCE button changes the  
setting as follows.  
To cancel the auto-check function, press the  
MENU button to close the menu.  
08 (factory setting) t 01 t 03 t 05  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
This changes the display and opens the cassette  
holder. If there is a cassette in the holder, it is  
ejected (except during recording).  
The settings are recorded and the display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
At EJECT n At C-In  
Blinking  
Menu 210 Using Auto-Check  
Function  
4 Insert the cassette and close the cassette holder.  
On the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL, the internal check  
can be automatically performed using the auto-check  
function. Meanwhile, a test recording and playback are  
also performed for about one minute.  
The display changes to the following, and the tape  
is loaded.  
Before shooting, it is desirable to perform auto-check  
and make sure for problems in VCR’s internal  
operations through the result of the internal check  
displayed in the display window and the video and  
audio recording qualities.  
At  
rEC  
Blinking  
5 Use the tape transport buttons to change the tape  
position for test recording if necessary, or advance  
to step 6.  
Preparations for testing  
(Continued)  
Make preparations as shown in the table below.  
Preparation  
Refer to  
Connect a monitor to the MONITOR OUT or S Page 25  
VIDEO OUT connector  
Connect an earphone or headphones to the  
EARPHONE connector  
Page 15  
Prepare a cassette for test recording/playback Page 53  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
107  
VCR Menu Operation  
6 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.  
Confirming the result  
Test recording starts.  
The result of the internal check is displayed in code as  
shown in the table below. When a problem is  
indicated, follow the instructions to check the  
camcorder and cassette. If no errors can be found,  
contact your Sony dealer.  
The display changes as shown below during  
recording. (The hyphen following “At” moves to  
right.)  
Also, be sure to check the quality of the playback  
video and audio (see step 7).  
...  
At - n At - n  
n At  
-
Display  
Diagnostic result  
After about 1 minute, the tape is rewound to the  
recording start position and playback starts. The  
following is displayed during playback.  
At good  
VCR’s internal operations are normal. If the  
video and audio recording qualities are  
normal, the unit is ready for use.  
At ng-01  
At ng-02  
There may be a problem in the VCR or the  
cassette. Contact your Sony dealer.  
There may be a problem in VCR’s internal  
operations or data loading from the tape.  
Clean the video heads using the DVM-12CL  
Cleaning Cassette (see page 126) and  
repeat the auto-check. If the result is the  
same, contact your Sony dealer.  
At PLAY  
7 Check the recording quality of the playback video  
in the viewfinder or on the monitor screen. Check  
the recording quality of the playback audio from  
the speaker, earphone, or headphones.  
At ng-03  
At ng-04  
There may be a problem in the link between  
the camera and VCR sections. If not, correct  
the error and repeat the auto-check. If the  
result is the same, contact your Sony dealer.  
If the recording quality is poor  
Check whether the REC/SAVE switch is set  
to SAVE. If so, repeat the auto-check with  
setting the switch to REC or using another  
cassette whose REC/SAVE switch is set to  
REC. If the result is the same, contact your  
Sony dealer.  
There may be some kind of problem whether or  
not it is detected by the internal check. Refer to the  
section “Troubleshooting”(page 129) and repeat  
the test. If the recording quality remains poor,  
contact your Sony dealer.  
At ng-05  
o-HAUL  
At Abort  
Check whether a cassette is inserted. If not,  
insert a cassette and repeat the auto-check.  
If the result is the same, contact your Sony  
dealer.  
When playback ends, the internal check result is  
displayed and the camcorder enters recording  
pause mode.  
If the video and audio recording qualities are  
normal, the unit is ready for use. However,  
the unit requires service. It is desirable to  
consult your Sony dealer.  
8 After confirming the result (see the next section  
“Confirming the result”), press the MENU button.  
The test recording or playback and internal  
check have aborted (when a tape transport  
button was pressed during recording or  
playback or when the tape ended). To  
resume the auto-check, press the MENU  
button to close the menu and perform the  
procedure described in the previous section  
“To perform the auto-check”.  
The display window returns to the display shown  
before the VCR menu.  
108  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
Menu 211 Selecting ClipLink  
Function  
Menu 212 Selecting Audio  
Recording Mode  
This setting must be made when not using the  
ClipLink function.  
The audio recording mode can be set to either of the  
following modes.  
48-kHz mode (factory setting): Enables two-  
channel recording mode with 48-kHz sampling  
frequency.  
For details of the ClipLink function, see “ClipLink  
Shooting” (page 68).  
32-kHz mode: Enables four-channel recording mode  
with 32-kHz sampling frequency (for CH-1 and  
CH-2).  
1 Display menu 211.  
The ClipLink function is factory-set to on.  
1 Display menu 212.  
211 on  
The menu number and current audio recording  
mode is displayed.  
Example: 48 (2-channel mode with 48-kHz  
sampling frequency)  
Blinking  
ClipLink function on/oFF  
indication  
212 48  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
Blinking  
Audio recording mode  
indication  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the ClipLink  
function on/oFF indication start blinking. Press the  
ADVANCE button to change the indication to  
oFF.  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the audio  
recording mode indication start blinking, then  
press the ADVANCE button.  
the MENU button.  
The settings are recorded and display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
This switches the mode setting to the other audio  
recording mode.  
Example: 32 (4-channel mode with 32-kHz  
sampling frequency)  
212 32  
Blinking  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
The settings are recorded and display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
109  
VCR Menu Operation  
When using the camcorder in a editing system  
containing both consumer DV and professional  
equipment, setting the audio reference level to –12  
dB is recommended.  
Changing the audio reference level setting from  
–20 dB (or –18 dB) to –12 dB increases the audio  
recording level by 8 dB (or 6 dB) whether the  
AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switch is set to  
AUTO or MANUAL.  
Menu 213 Selecting Audio  
Reference Level  
The audio reference level can be set to either of the  
following.  
–20 dB (factory setting for DSR-500WSL) or  
–18 dB  
(factory setting for DSR-500WSPL): Audio  
reference level for professional use  
–12 dB: Audio reference level commonly used for  
consumer DV (The maximum level is 0 dB.)  
Menu 214 Setting Fade-In/Fade-  
Out for the Audio Recording  
Start and Stop Points  
1 Display menu 213.  
The menu number and current audio reference  
level is displayed.  
You can reduce noise at back space editing points (if  
necessary) by setting the fade-in/fade-out to on. The  
fade-in/fade-out transition time is within one frame  
(1/30 second for DSR-500WSL or 1/25 second for DSR-  
500WSPL).  
Example: –20 dB (for DSR-500WSL) or –18 dB  
(for DSR-500WSPL)  
a)  
213 -20  
Blinking  
Note  
Audio reference  
level indication  
When an external equipment, such as a VCR, is  
connected to the DV OUT connector, the fade-in/fade-  
out function is turned off automatically regardless of  
the setting on the menu 214.  
a) For DSR-500WSPL: –18  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
1 Display Menu 214.  
The fade-in/fade-out is factory-set to oFF.  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the audio  
reference level display start blinking, then press  
the ADVANCE button.  
214 oFF  
Blinking  
This switches the setting to the other audio  
reference level.  
Fade-in/fade-out  
setting indication  
Example: –12 dB  
213 -12  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
Blinking  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the fade-in/fade-  
out setting indication start blinking, then press the  
ADVANCE button to change the setting to on.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
The settings are recorded and display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
the MENU button.  
The settings are recorded and the display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
110  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
Menu 220 Using Setup Add (for  
DSR-500WSL Only)  
Menu 221 Using Setup Remove  
(for DSR-500WSL Only)  
Use this menu to add setup to the playback video  
signals.  
Use this menu to remove setup from the video signal  
which contains setup (when the DSBK-501/501P is  
fitted).  
1 Display menu 220.  
1 Display menu 221.  
The setup add is factory-set to oFF.  
The setup remove is factory-set to on.  
220 oFF  
221 on  
Blinking  
Blinking  
Setup add on/oFF indication  
Setup add on/oFF indication  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
If the setting does not need to be changed, press  
the MENU button to close the menu.  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the setup add on/  
oFF indication start blinking, then press the  
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the setup remove  
on/oFF indication start blinking, then press the  
ADVANCE button to change the setting to on.  
ADVANCE button to change the setting to on.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then  
the MENU button.  
The settings are recorded and display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
The settings are recorded and display window  
returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.  
Note  
During recording the signal of the image being shot  
contains setup add, when it is output from the  
camcorder’s S VIDEO OUT and MONITOR OUT  
connectors.  
During playback, the setup is removed from the output  
video signal.  
Note  
Even if you set setup remove to on, the video signals  
output from the camcorder’s MONITOR OUT  
connector during recording will contain setup.  
However, the signals removed setup are recorded onto  
a tape.  
To have the setup added during playback, set the setup  
add to on.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
111  
White Balance Adjustment  
Adjusting the white balance ensures that as lighting  
conditions change white objects remain white in the  
image and tones remain natural.  
The color of light emitted varies from one light source  
to another, and as the lighting changes the apparent  
color of an illuminated subject changes. It is therefore  
necessary to adjust the white balance each time the  
principal lighting source changes.  
1 Make the following settings.  
• POWER switch: ON  
• OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch: one of the CAM  
positions  
• Lens IRIS selector: A (automatic)  
• ATW button: off  
2 Set the FILTER control according to the lighting  
conditions. (See page 49.)  
3 Set the W. BAL switch to A or B.  
Saving an Appropriate White  
Balance Value in Memory  
4 Arrange a white subject (paper, cloth, etc.) under  
the same lighting conditions as for shooting, and  
zoom in on it so that as far as possible the whole  
screen is white.  
You can save two white balance values in separate  
memories, A and B. Unless changed, the saved values  
are retained for approximately ten years, even when  
the camcorder is powered off.  
Once a value is saved, you can automatically restore  
the adjustment by moving the W. BAL switch to the A  
or B position. This makes shooting under alternating  
lighting conditions easy.  
The minimum white area requirements for the  
adjustment are shown in the following figure.  
Area of white within this  
rectangle should be  
equivalent to at least 10% of  
the image area.  
Center of the screen  
Separate white balance values for each  
FILTER control setting  
In the default case, as described above, the same two A  
and B white balance values apply to all settings of the  
FILTER control. It is possible, however, to change the  
AWB MEM setting in advanced menu page 3 (see  
page 88) so that there are eight possibly different  
values for each of the A and B positions and for the  
four FILTER control settings.  
approximately  
approximately  
70% of the  
height of the  
image  
70% of the  
width of the  
image  
5 Push the WHT/BLK switch in the WHT direction  
and release.  
The white balance adjustment is carried out.  
During the adjustment the legend “AUTO WHITE  
-OP-” appears in the viewfinder.  
After a few seconds the adjustment is complete,  
and the legend in the viewfinder changes to  
“AUTO WHITE -OK-” plus a color temperature,  
as shown in the following figure.  
2
4
1
1
AUTO WHITE  
-OK-  
3200K  
5 1 3  
The adjustment value is automatically saved in  
memory A or B as selected above.  
112  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
To save the white balance adjustment for different  
lighting conditions, repeat steps 2 to 4 on the previous  
page. You can save two different values for the white  
balance, in memories A and B.  
The color temperature is too high. Try  
the following, in this order of  
precedence.  
(1) If the FILTER control is in position 1,  
change it to position 2, 3 or 4, then  
retry the adjustment.  
AUTO WHITE  
-NG-  
:C.TEMP.HI  
CHG.FILTER  
TRY AGAIN  
(2) Check that the subject is completely  
white, then retry the adjustment.  
(3) The color temperature may be  
beyond the range of the camcorder.  
Fit an appropriate color temperature  
conversion filter, then retry the  
adjustment.  
To recall a white balance value from memory  
Before beginning shooting, set the W. BAL switch to  
the A or B position. This automatically sets the  
camcorder to the white balance adjustment saved in  
the corresponding memory.  
WHITE:PRESET The W. BAL switch is in the PRESET  
If white balance adjustment cannot be  
completed automatically  
The warning message “AUTO WHITE -NG-” appears  
in the viewfinder.  
Make the necessary corrections, then carry out the  
process again.  
position.  
Move the W. BAL switch to the A or B  
position.  
BARS  
The camcorder is outputting a color bar  
signal.  
Move the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to  
one of the CAM positions.  
Warning messages for white balance adjustment  
Message  
Meaning and corrections to be made  
AUTO WHITE Light level is too low.  
Using the Preset White Balance  
Settings  
-NG-  
:LOW LIGHT  
TRY AGAIN  
• Increase the illumination level, open  
the iris, or use the GAIN switch to  
increase the video signal level.  
• Check the setting of the FILTER  
control.  
The camcorder provides two preset white balance  
settings, for instant shooting with approximately the  
correct adjustment.  
• After these checks, retry the  
adjustment.  
There are also particular shooting conditions under  
which the preset values may give better results than the  
human eye adjustment.  
AUTO WHITE  
-NG-  
The subject is not white, or the lighting  
level is too high.  
• Use a white subject.  
• Lower the illumination level, close the  
iris, or use the GAIN switch to  
decrease the video signal level.  
• Check the setting of the FILTER  
control.  
:
??  
TRY AGAIN  
1 Set the W. BAL switch to PRESET.  
2 Set the FILTER control.  
• After these checks, retry the  
adjustment.  
The white balance is automatically adjusted for  
3200 K when the FILTER control is in position 1  
and for 5600 K in position 2, 3 or 4.  
AUTO WHITE The color temperature is too low. Try  
-NG-  
the following, in this order of  
precedence.  
(1) If the FILTER control is in position 2,  
3 or 4, change it to position 1, then  
retry the adjustment.  
(2) Check that the subject is completely  
white, then retry the adjustment.  
(3) The color temperature may be  
beyond the range of the camcorder.  
Fit an appropriate color temperature  
conversion filter, then retry the  
adjustment.  
:C.TEMP.LOW  
CHG.FILTER  
TRY AGAIN  
You can change those values (3200K and 5600K) to  
other values in basic menu page 2 (see page 81).  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
113  
White Balance Adjustment  
Light Sources and Color  
Temperature  
Using the ATW (Auto Tracing  
White Balance) Function  
Adjustment of the white balance to match the light  
source is essential to ensure correct color rendering.  
The color of a light source is indicated as a color  
temperature in kelvins (K). It is higher for bluish light,  
and lower for reddish light. When the camcorder is  
shipped it is adjusted for use with video lights (studio  
lamps with a color temperature of 3200 K). For use  
with other light sources, therefore, adjustment is  
required.  
The ATW function continuously adjusts the white  
balance automatically to adapt to changes in lighting  
conditions.  
Note  
Depending on the shooting conditions, automatic  
adjustment may not necessarily give optimum results.  
For the best possible results, use the W. BAL switch.  
First use the FILTER control to set the approximate  
color temperature, then carry out white balance  
adjustment.  
The following table shows typical color temperature  
values for different light sources.  
To use the ATW function  
Press the ATW button turning the indicator on.  
This activates the ATW function, and the ATW  
indication appears in the viewfinder.  
To disable the ATW function, press the ATW button  
again, turning the indicator off.  
Color temperatures of different light sources  
If the ATW function does not operate correctly  
A warning message appears in the viewfinder as  
shown in the table below.  
Color temperature (K)  
Light source  
Natural  
Artificial  
V
Clear sky  
Light cloud  
10,000  
Message  
Meaning and correction to be made  
8,000  
:C.TEMP.LOW If the FILTER control is in position 2, 3 or  
4, change it to position 1, then retry the  
ATW operation.  
Cloudy or rainy  
skies  
Blue light  
7,000  
6,000  
5,000  
V
Fluorescent light  
(daylight white)  
:C.TEMP.HIGH If the FILTER control is in position 1,  
change it to position 2, 3 or 4, then retry  
the ATW operation.  
v
Direct sunlight, Mercury lighting  
noon  
White light  
V
Fluorescent light  
(white)  
One hour after  
sunrise or  
before sunset  
4,000  
3,500  
Fluorescent light  
(warm white)  
v
Yellow light  
V
Studio lighting  
3,200  
3,000  
2,500  
Halogen lamps  
and video lights  
Incandescent  
Thirty minutes  
after sunrise or lighting  
before sunset  
Sodium street-  
lighting  
v
Sunrise or  
sunset  
Candlelight  
Red light  
2,000  
114  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
Black Balance Adjustment  
If black balance adjustment cannot be  
completed automatically  
The warning message “AUTO BLACK -NG-” appears  
in the viewfinder.  
Make the necessary corrections, then carry out the  
process again.  
Correct adjustment of the black balance is important  
for optimum operation of a camcorder. It is necessary  
when using the camcorder for the first time or after a  
significant period out of use, and also when there has  
been a sudden change in temperature.  
The adjustment value is saved in memory, and  
readjustment is not normally necessary after powering  
the camcorder off or simply when lighting conditions  
change.  
Warning messages for black balance adjustment  
Message  
AUTO BLACK The lens iris did not close fully.  
Meaning and corrections to be made  
Check whether the lens cable is  
connected properly, and whether there is  
a fault in the lens. If a second attempt to  
carry out the adjustment fails, consult  
your Sony dealer.  
-NG-  
: IRIS  
NOT CLOSED  
TRY AGAIN  
AUTO BLACK The iris opened during adjustment or  
there is a hardware error.  
Close the iris and try again. If this fails,  
consult your Sony dealer.  
-NG-  
??  
TRY AGAIN  
:
BARS  
The camcorder is outputting a color bar  
signal.  
Move the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to  
one of the CAM positions.  
2
1
1 Turn on the power and check that the OUTPUT/  
DL/DCC+ switch is in one of the CAM positions.  
2 Push the WHT/BLK switch in the BLK direction  
and release.  
The lens iris closes, and black balance adjustment  
is carried out.  
During the adjustment the legend “AUTO BLACK  
-OP-” appears in the viewfinder.  
AUTO BLACK  
-OP-  
After a few seconds the adjustment is complete,  
and the legend in the viewfinder changes to  
“AUTO BLACK -OK-”.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
115  
Shutter Settings  
This section covers the settings for electronic shutter  
speed, CLS (clear scan) and EVS function.  
The new value for the shutter speed or clear scan  
frequency and EVS setting remains set until changed,  
even when the camcorder is powered off.  
Shutter speeds  
There are five shutter speeds, from 1/100 s (DSR-  
500WSL) or 1/60 s (DSR-500WSPL) to 1/2000 s.  
Increasing the shutter speed reduces blurring when  
shooting a fast-moving subject. It is also possible to  
reduce flicker when shooting under fluorescent  
lighting by changing the shutter speed.  
1
3 2  
CLS (Clear Scan) function  
1 Set the SHUTTER switch to the ON position.  
When shooting a computer screen or projected image,  
horizontal bands may appear in the camcorder image.  
This is because the vertical scan frequency of the  
computer-generated image is different from the  
vertical scan frequency of the video system. The clear  
scan function allows you to select a vertical scan  
frequency to reduce this interference.  
The SHUTTER indicator in the viewfinder comes  
on, and it is now possible to change the shutter  
speed or clear scan frequency setting and to set the  
EVS function. (If the EVS is already selected, the  
SHUTTER indicator will not light.)  
2 Operate the MENU switch and MENU dial to align  
the cursor with the item “SHUTTER” in basic  
menu page 1, then press the MENU dial.  
EVS (Enhanced Vertical Scan)  
This function enhances the vertical scan resolution  
from 400 to 450 lines (or 450 to 530 lines) to reduce  
flicker. However, this increases the aliasing.  
Setting the shutter speed, CLS and EVS  
function  
A.IRIS : ± 0  
DTL LEV: ± 0  
M.BLACK: ± 0  
STRETCH: ± 0  
SHUTTER: 1/250  
m
Notes on setting the shutter speed  
• The faster you make the shutter speed, the darker the  
image becomes. Check the brightness in the  
viewfinder, and if necessary increase the lighting  
level or adjust the iris.  
• When the shutter speed is very fast, shooting a high  
intensity subject may cause long vertical tails to  
appear on the highlights (smear).  
3 Turn the MENU dial to select the required shutter  
speed, scan frequency or EVS.  
The shutter speed or clear scan frequency setting  
changes in the following order:  
Note on setting the CLS function  
DSR-500WSL  
1/100  
The vertical scan frequencies of computer screens  
vary, and it may not be possible to eliminate the  
interference patterns entirely. Note also that the  
vertical scan frequency may change depending on the  
software being run.  
(Value when  
shipped)  
1/250  
1/500  
1/1000  
1/2000  
EVS  
1/60  
DSR-500WSPL  
DSR-500WSL  
200.3Hz  
201.4Hz  
60.4Hz  
50.3Hz  
• • •  
• • •  
DSR-500WSPL  
116  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
When using the clear scan function  
Watching the monitor screen, adjust the frequency  
to give minimum interference.  
If there is a black band in the monitor image,  
reduce the frequency, and if there is a white band,  
increase the frequency.  
To return from the basic menu to the normal  
indications  
Press the MENU switch repeatedly until the normal  
indications appear. The new setting of the shutter  
speed, clear scan frequency, or EVS appears in the  
normal screen display.  
When shooting is finished  
Set the SHUTTER switch to the OFF position.  
The SHUTTER indicator in the viewfinder goes off.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
117  
Viewfinder Screen Adjustments  
The following adjustments are provided to improve the  
visibility of the viewfinder screen.  
Contrast and brightness adjustment  
Although these adjustments may make the viewfinder  
image clearer, they have no effect on the output video  
signal from the camcorder.  
Carry out these adjustments with the color bars  
displayed.  
1 Set the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to the BARS  
position.  
BRIGHT control  
Eyepiece focusing knob  
The color bars appear in the viewfinder.  
CONTRAST control  
PEAKING control  
2 Watching the color bars, turn the CONTRAST and  
BRIGHT controls to adjust the contrast and  
brightness.  
3 Return the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to its  
original position.  
OUTPUT/DL/  
DCC+ switch  
Outline emphasis adjustment  
Turning the PEAKING control changes the degree of  
outline emphasis in the viewfinder image, to make  
focusing easier.  
Adjusting the eyepiece focus  
Depending on the eyesight of the operator — whether  
longsighted or shortsighted — the optimal position of  
the viewfinder image varies. Adjust the eyepiece  
focus to get the clearest viewfinder image for your  
eyesight. First focus the image with the lens, then  
adjust the eyepiece focusing knob. The adjustment  
range is from –3 to 0 diopters1) (default when shipped  
is 0 diopters).  
Using an optional part allows you to modify the  
adjustment range to –2 to +1 diopters or –0.5 to +3  
diopters.  
For details, consult your Sony dealer.  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) Diopter: A unit to indicate the degree of convergence or  
divergence of a bundle of rays.  
118  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
Adjusting the Lens  
Flange Focal Length Adjustment  
It is necessary to adjust the flange focal length (the  
distance from the lens flange to the plane of the image  
along the optical axis) in the following cases.  
• When a lens is fitted for the first time  
• After changing lenses  
• When during zoom operations the focus does not  
match properly from telephoto to wide angle  
4,11  
2 1  
3
About 3 m (10 feet)  
Test chart for flange  
focal length adjustment  
9
8
6
7 5  
ZOOM  
MANU.  
SERVO  
1 Set the IRIS selector to the M position.  
7 Turn the focus ring so that the test chart is in focus.  
2 Turn the iris ring to F/1.8 (fully open).  
8 Turn the zoom ring to the wide angle position.  
3 Place the supplied test chart for flange focal length 9 Turn the F.B adjustment ring so that the test chart  
adjustment at a range of about 3 meters (10 feet),  
and adjust the lighting so that an appropriate video  
output level is obtained with the iris at F/1.8.  
is in focus. Do not move the focus ring.  
10Repeat steps 6 to 9 until the image stays in focus  
from telephoto to wide angle.  
4 Loosen the F.B fixing knob.  
11After adjustment, tighten the screw of the F.B  
5 Set the ZOOM selector to the MANU. position.  
6 Turn the zoom ring to the telephoto position.  
fixing knob.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
119  
Adjusting the Lens  
Iris Adjustments  
Iris ring  
Instant automatic  
iris button  
ZEBRA button  
A.IRIS MODE switch  
IRIS selector  
There are three ways of adjusting the iris:  
automatically, manually, and with the instant  
automatic iris adjustment function.  
To make the image lighter when shooting  
against the light  
In the automatic iris adjustment mode, set the A.IRIS  
MODE switch to BACK L, turning the indicator on.  
Iris adjustment  
To make the image clearer when shooting a  
subject lit by a spotlight  
In the automatic iris adjustment mode, set the A.IRIS  
MODE switch to SPOT L, turning the indicator on.  
Adjustment method  
Operation  
Automatic adjustment mode  
The iris is adjusted automatically to  
adapt to changes in the brightness of  
the subject. This is the mode for  
normal shooting.  
Set the IRIS  
selector to the A  
position.  
Manual adjustment mode  
Use this mode in the following cases:  
• For special effects  
• When filming a person with a very  
bright sky background  
• When shooting a subject with  
extreme contrast  
The zebra pattern can be used as a  
guideline for iris adjustment.  
Set the IRIS  
Using the zebra pattern in manual  
adjustment mode  
selector to the M  
position and turn the  
iris ring as required.  
To use the zebra pattern as a guideline for iris  
adjustment in manual adjustment mode, press the  
ZEBRA button to set it on.  
Select the zebra pattern to be displayed in advanced  
menu page 4 (see page 89).  
Instant automatic adjustment  
function  
While in manual adjustment mode,  
this function makes a temporary  
automatic adjustment.  
With the IRIS  
selector in the M  
position, hold down  
the instant  
automatic iris button  
for as long as  
necessary.  
• When the subject is a person  
Adjust the iris manually so that the zebra pattern  
appears on the highlights of the subject’s face.  
• For other subjects  
Adjust the iris manually so that the zebra pattern  
appears on the most important parts of the subject.  
120  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
You can see the iris sensitivity trimmer when  
removing the gum cap on the front of the lens driving  
unit. Use a mini-screwdriver to turn the trimmer. If  
you turn it clockwise, the sensitivity increases, and if  
you turn it counterclockwise, the sensitivity decreases.  
It is recommended that you confirm the iris sensitivity  
after replacing the lens.  
Designating the lens  
You have to designate the lens number according to  
the types of your lens.  
If the number is not designated properly, strange color  
may appear on the upper and lower of the screen when  
shooting a white subject.  
Set the number in advanced menu page 4 (page 89)  
For more information, refer to the operating instructions for  
the lens (or consult the lens maker).  
Lens  
Product  
number  
1
Fujinon: VCL-916BYA, A16X9 BRM,  
A12X6.8 BRM  
Macrophotography  
Canon: VCL-918BY, YJ18X9B KRS  
Use the macro function when the subject is short from  
the front of the lens.  
2
Fujinon: A10X4.8 BEVM/BERD, A15X8 BERM/  
BERD, A16X9 BERM, A20X8 BEVM/BERD,  
A19X8.7 BERM, A19X8.7 BRM  
Canon: J9aX5.2B IRS/IAS, J15aX8B IRS/IAS  
2
3
3
4
Canon: J21aX7.8B IRS/IAS, YJ18X9B IRS  
Set up the data with Sony dealer.  
1
If you use the lens that is not mentioned above, set the  
lens number as follows:  
• When using the lens without the extender, set it to 1.  
• When using the lens with the extender, set it to 2.  
• When using the lens with the ratio converter, set it to 2.  
4
ZOOM  
MANU.  
You can also set it more precisely at Sony dealer,  
according to your lens. In this case, set it to 4.  
SERVO  
Adjusting the Iris Sensitivity  
1 Bring the lens up to the subject so that the image is  
the required size.  
You usually need not adjust the iris sensitivity because  
lenses are equipped with iris sensitivity adjustment  
function.  
2 Move the focus ring to the closest focus position.  
In auto iris mode, if hunting or response delay  
happens, adjust the iris sensitivity using the iris  
sensitivity trimmer.  
3 Press the M button and turn the MACRO ring fully  
in the direction shown by the arrow.  
4 Move the ZOOM selector to the MANU. position,  
Iris sensitivity trimmer (S  
or IRIS GAIN is indicated.)  
and turn the zoom ring to focus the image.  
Ending close-up shooting  
Return the MACRO ring to its original position (turn  
fully in the opposite direction to the arrow in the  
figure).  
IRIS  
GAIN  
Reducing the size of the image  
After completing steps 1 to 4 above, if you wish to  
reduce the size of the image, turn the MACRO ring  
back slightly, then use the zoom ring again to focus the  
image.  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
121  
Settings for Special Cases  
Settings for special cases  
Shooting conditions  
Setting  
Effect  
The background is very bright, and the  
subject is too dark.  
Set the A.IRIS MODE switch to BACK L, This lightens the foreground.  
turning the indicator on.  
The subject is under a spotlight.  
Set the A.IRIS MODE switch to SPOT L, This prevents white burn-out in highlights  
turning the indicator on.  
of faces and clothes.  
The subject is completely still (e.g. when Enable the EVS (Enhanced Vertical  
This enhances the vertical resolution.  
shooting documents, drawings, etc.).  
definition System) function. (See page  
116.)  
Note  
Enabling the EVS function tends to  
increase the occurrence of aliasing  
problems (moiré patterns). Therefore,  
normally leave the function disabled.  
When you wish to give a lush effect, as Set the FILE setting to HISAT. (See  
This increases the saturation of primary  
colors.  
when shooting a wedding or similar  
occasion.  
page 94.)  
Shooting under fluorescent lighting.  
Set the FILE setting to FL. (See page  
94.)  
This eliminates the blue-green cast, and  
restores natural hues.  
When shooting bright areas mixed with  
dark areas (Example: A person indoors page 2, then set the OUTPUT/DL/  
Set DL to ON in the advanced menu  
Prevents white breakup and color faults  
in bright areas.  
looking through a window at a bright  
landscape outdoors).  
DCC+ switch to CAM /DL. (See page  
88.)  
When adjusting for skin detail or tone  
(Example: When shooting to hide skin  
details).  
See “Skin Detail Correction” (page 123) Adjusts the skin detail or tone to a  
or “Adjusting Color in the Specified  
designated active area.  
Area” (page 123).  
To make focusing before shooting  
easier.  
Press the EZ FOCUS button, turning the This opens the iris, to make it easier to  
“easy focus” function on. (See page 13.) focus before beginning shooting.  
To begin shooting immediately when  
there is no time to make adjustments.  
Press the EZ MODE button, turning the This provides automatic adjustment to a  
“EZ mode” function on. (See page 14.)  
set of standard values, to allow  
immediate shooting.  
The 3200 K preset white balance makes Change the setting of the preset white  
This prevents the picture from reddening.  
the picture reddish.  
balance on basic menu page 2. (See  
page 81.)  
122  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
Skin Detail Correction  
Adjusting Color in the Specified  
Area  
The DSR-500WSL/500WSPL provides an easy push-  
button function that designates an active skin tone  
area.  
You can adjust the color of the specified area. Perform  
the same procedure as for the skin detail correction to  
designate the target area.  
Note  
The SKIN DTL SET button is disabled while a title is  
displayed in basic menu page 8 or color bars are  
displayed. Before skin detail correction, clear the title  
or color bars display.  
1 Turn the POWER switch on with holding down the  
MENU dial so that you can access the advanced  
menu.  
2 Display the advanced menu page 12.  
m
PAGE12(NEXT  
m
$
PREV  
m
4)  
SKIN DTL  
FILE ADJ 2  
FILE:*HISAT  
ON  
OFF 1  
SAT  
HUE  
: ± 0  
: ± 0  
SKIN SAT: ± 0  
SET  
SKIN HUE: ± 0  
2,3  
EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH)  
3 Perform the procedure for the skin detail correction  
to designate the area to which you apply color  
adjustment.  
1 Set the SKIN DTL switch to ON.  
While this procedure is being performed, the menu  
is not displayed.  
The indication “SKIN AREA: ±0” appears in the  
viewfinder.  
4 When advanced menu page 12 appears, change the  
value of the SKIN SAT and SKIN HUE to adjust  
color in the area designated in step 3.  
2 Press the SKIN DTL SET button.  
This causes the area detect cursor to be shown in  
the viewfinder (for 10 seconds).  
Note  
Set SKIN DTL to 1.0 in basic menu page 2 if the skin  
detail correction is unnecessary.  
3 Place the area detect cursor on the target, then  
press the SKIN DTL SET button.  
This designates the correction area, which is  
indicated by a zebra pattern, and the indication  
“SKIN AREA: ±0” appears again. If the area  
detect cursor disappears before designating the  
area, press the SKIN DTL SET button again to  
display the cursor. (Returns to step 2.)  
4 Turn the MENU dial to change the SKIN AREA  
value (–99 to +99) so that the zebra pattern may be  
displayed in the target area.  
Use basic menu page 1 to set the correction level  
(see page 80).  
You can also change color in the designated area  
(see the following section).  
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings  
123  
Important Notes on Operation  
Fitting the zoom lens  
Care of the unit  
It is important to fit the lens correctly, as otherwise  
damage may result. Be sure to refer to the section  
“Fitting the Lens” (See page 32).  
Remove dust and dirt from the surfaces of the lenses or  
optical filters using a blower.  
If the body of the unit is dirty, clean it with a soft, dry  
cloth. In extreme cases, use a cloth steeped in a little  
neutral detergent, then wipe dry. Do not use organic  
solvents such as alcohol or thinners, as these may  
cause discoloration or other damage to the finish of the  
unit.  
Do not cover the unit while operating  
Putting a cloth, for example, over the unit can cause  
excessive internal heat build-up.  
Operation and storage  
Avoid storing or operating the unit in the following  
conditions.  
In the event of operating problems  
If you should experience problems with the unit,  
contact your Sony dealer.  
• In excessive heat or cold (operating temperature  
range: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F))  
Remember that in summer in warm climates the  
temperature inside a car with the windows closed can  
easily exceed 50°C (122°F).  
Characteristics of CCD Sensors  
• In damp or dusty locations  
The following effects may appear in the image. They  
are characteristic of camcorders using CCDs (charge-  
coupled devices), and do not indicate a malfunction.  
• Locations where the unit may be exposed to rain  
• Locations subject to violent vibration  
• Do not use the unit close to strong magnetic fields.  
• Close to radio or TV transmitters producing strong  
electromagnetic fields.  
Vertical smear  
When shooting a very bright object, such as a light, the  
highlight tends to produce vertical tails. This effect is  
much reduced in this camcorder. (Use of the electronic  
shutter increases this effect.)  
Viewfinder  
• Do not leave the unit with the eyepiece pointing  
directly at the sun.  
The eyepiece lens can concentrate the sun’s rays and  
melt the interior of the viewfinder.  
• Do not use the viewfinder close to strong magnetic  
fields. This can cause picture distortion.  
Vertical tail on the image  
Monitor screen  
Avoid violent impacts  
Dropping the unit, or otherwise imparting a violent  
shock to it, is likely to cause it to malfunction.  
Bright object  
(electric light, sun,  
etc.)  
After use  
Set the POWER switch to OFF to turn off the power.  
White flecks  
When not use for a period time  
If the camcorder is operated at a high temperature,  
white flecks may appear in the image. White flecks  
may also appear under normal temperature conditions  
if the sensitivity is increased (especially to +18 dB or  
higher).  
Remove the battery pack.  
Shipping  
• Remove the cassette before transporting the unit.  
• If sending the unit by truck, ship, air or other  
transportation service, pack it in the shipping carton  
of the unit.  
Appendix  
125  
Cleaning the Video Heads  
Always use the special-purpose Sony PDVM-12CL  
Cleaning Cassette for cleaning the audio and video  
heads. Follow the instructions with the cleaning  
cassette carefully, as inappropriate use of the cleaning  
cassette can damage the heads.  
Note  
The PDVM-12CL Cleaning Cassette can be used only  
once. When the PDVM-12CL is loaded in the  
camcorder, only STOP, PLAY and EJECT buttons  
function.  
Replacing the video heads  
If cleaning the video heads fails to restore picture  
quality, the heads may be due for replacement.  
Keep a check of the hours of head drum operation:  
with normal use, the heads should need replacing  
after about 1,500 hours of use.  
When the heads need replacement, contact your Sony  
dealer.  
Check the hours of head drum operation using the VCR  
menu. For details see “Checking the Total Operating  
(Power-On) Hours — Menu 201” on page 105.  
Replacing other parts  
For replacement of all parts other than the video heads,  
contact your Sony dealer.  
126  
Appendix  
Warning System  
When the camcorder is powered on, or if a fault occurs  
during operation, a warning is given in the following  
ways:  
• By warning indications in the display window.  
• By means of the WARNING indicator together with  
a warning tone from the speaker or earphone.  
• By the warning indicators in the viewfinder.  
You can adjust the volume of the warning tone with  
the ALARM knob. When this knob is turned to the  
minimum position, there is no sound output at all.  
Operation warnings and action to be taken  
Warning tones  
Continuous  
Viewfinder indicators  
Display window  
State  
WARNING indication  
Continuous  
REC/TALLY BATT  
Machine  
action  
Problem  
What to do  
Continuous  
1 blink/s  
1 beep/s  
Warning  
(blinking/  
1 blink/s  
indica-  
tion  
Continuous)  
4 beeps /s  
4 blinks/s  
4 blinks /s  
After detecting  
head clogging,  
recording  
continues but  
quality is poor.  
Clean the  
heads. If the  
problem  
persists, power  
off, and consult  
your Sony  
Video head  
gaps  
clogged or  
problem in  
recording  
circuit.  
a)  
a)  
a)  
RF  
Continuousa)  
dealer.  
Recording  
Servo lock  
lost.  
Power off, and  
consult your  
Sony dealer.  
continues but  
quality is poor.  
This may  
a)  
a)  
a)  
SERVO Continuousa)  
temporarily blink  
when the  
recording starts.  
The VCR  
Condensa-  
tion on  
head drum.  
Without  
HUMID  
Continuous  
stops, and all  
operations are  
inhibited  
powering off,  
wait until the  
HUMID  
indication  
disappears.  
except eject.  
The tape  
cannot be  
wound  
Consult your  
Sony dealer  
before doing  
anything.d)  
Operation  
stops.  
Continuous  
SLACK  
TAPE  
properly.  
Close to  
the end of  
tape.  
Operation  
continues.  
Replace the  
cassette as  
soon as  
c)  
Blinkinga)  
(1 blink/s)  
a)  
c)  
possible.  
Replace the  
cassette or  
rewind.  
End of  
tape.  
Operation stops  
during recording,  
playback or fast  
forward.  
Blinking  
(4 blinks/s)  
b)  
c)  
Battery  
almost  
exhausted.  
Replace the  
battery as  
soon as  
Operation  
continues.  
b)  
Blinking  
(Blinking in  
(1 blink/s)  
possible.  
reverse phase)  
BATT  
Battery  
exhausted.  
Replace the  
battery.  
Blinking  
(4 blinks/s)  
Operation  
stops.  
a) During recording or at recording pause.  
b) Except during playback, fast forward, rewind, and  
recording review  
For details of warning messages displayed in the viewfinder,  
see page 77.  
c) During recording only  
d) Do not operate the camcorder with “SLACK” indication  
displayed or the tape may be damaged.  
Appendix  
127  
Warning System  
Condensation  
If you move a camcorder suddenly from a very cold  
place to a warm place, or use it in a very humid  
location, condensation may form on the head drum. If  
it is operated in this state, the tape may adhere to the  
drum, and cause a failure or even permanent damage.  
Take the following steps to prevent this from  
happening:  
• Remove the cassette before moving the camcorder  
from a very cold place to a warm place.  
• Before inserting a cassette, turn the power on, and  
check that the HUMID indication is not showing in  
the display window. If it is showing, wait — do not  
insert a cassette until the HUMID indication  
disappears. You can save waiting time if you keep the  
camcorder powered.  
For details of cassette insertion and removal, see the section  
“Recording on the Internal VCR” on page 52, and for  
details of the HUMID indication, see the section “Warning  
System” on page 127.  
128  
Appendix  
Troubleshooting  
You can use this chart to establish possible causes of  
an apparent problem; always double-check before  
sending the unit for repair. If a problem persists,  
contact your Sony dealer.  
Troubleshooting chart  
Symptoms  
Cause  
Remedy  
The unit does not power on when you  
turn the POWER switch on.  
There is no battery pack loaded.  
Load a battery pack (page 46).  
The battery pack has reached the end of Replace the battery pack with a fully  
its usable life. charged one (page 46).  
The AC power adaptor is not connected, Connect the AC power adaptor or turn it  
or it is not turned on. on (page 48).  
The tape transport does not operate  
when you press either VTR button.  
The POWER switch of the unit is turned Turn the POWER switch on (page 14).  
off.  
The unit has reached the end of tape.  
Rewind the tape, or load a new cassette  
(page 53).  
The cassette is set record-inhibited.  
Either load a new cassette, or release  
the record-inhibit (page 51).  
An incorrect type of DVCAM or DV  
cassette is loaded.  
Load a correct type of DV or DVCAM  
cassette (page 51, 53).  
(The  
indication blinks.)  
The tape transport does not operate  
when you press any tape transport  
button.  
The unit has reached the end of tape.  
Rewind the tape, or load a new cassette  
(page 53).  
The cassette holder is not solidly closed Press on the “PUSH” indication to close  
after the cassette is inserted.  
the holder solidly (page 53).  
The power supply cuts while operating. The battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace the battery pack with a fully  
charged one (page 46).  
The battery goes dead very quickly.  
It is not possible to eject the cassette.  
The operating temperature is very low.  
Use a BP-L60/L60A or BP-L90/L90A  
(page 46).  
The battery pack is inadequately  
charged.  
Recharge the battery pack (page 46).  
The battery pack is exhausted.  
Replace the battery pack with a fully  
charged one (page 46).  
The POWER switch is turned off.  
Turn the POWER switch on. (page 14)  
Press on the “PUSH” indication to close  
the holder solidly and then press the  
EJECT button (page 53).  
The cassette holder is not solidly closed  
after the cassette is inserted.  
The playback picture quality is poor.  
The playback picture does not appear.  
The playback sound does not hear.  
The video heads are dirty.  
Clean the video heads using a PDVM-  
12CL Cleaning Cassette (page 126).  
All controls except the EJECT button are There is condensation on the head  
Remove the cassette, power off, and  
wait until the condensation has  
evaporated (page 128).  
disabled.  
drum.  
Audio recording is not possible.  
Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL  
(CH-1/CH-2) knobs (page 16).  
The AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs  
are set to the minimum level.  
The AUDIO LEVEL knob on the front is  
set to the minimum level.  
Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL  
knob (page 12).  
Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL  
(CH-1/CH-2) knobs, and record again  
(page 16).  
The recorded sound is distorted.  
The audio level is too high.  
The recorded sound has a high noise  
level.  
The audio level is too low.  
Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL  
(CH-1/CH-2) knobs, and record again  
(page 16).  
The unit has failed in loading or saving  
the cassette memory data.  
The indication “Er91-13F” appears in the  
display window.  
Load a new cassette (page 53).  
An incorrect type of cassette is loaded.  
Load a correct type of cassette (page  
53).  
The cassette is automatically ejected.  
(Continued)  
Appendix  
129  
Troubleshooting  
Troubleshooting chart (continued)  
Cause  
At the recording, the ClipLink function is Only the REGEN mode can be used for  
set to on (meaning ClipLink shooting is ClipLink shooting. If you will not perform  
allowed) in menu 211, CONT is displayed ClipLink shooting, set the ClipLink  
in the display window and the time code function to oFF (see page 109).  
generator is in the REGEN mode.  
Symptoms  
Remedy  
The time code setting is not possible.  
The time code value does not advance  
though the TC mode switch 1 or 2 is set  
to the F-RUN or DATE/TIME.  
130  
Appendix  
Specifications  
Video S/N ratio (output from the VIDEO OUT  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
connector)  
63 dB (typical) (DSR-500WSL)  
61 dB (typical) (DSR-500WSPL)  
0.05% for all zones, without lens  
Imaging element Three-chip interline transfer CCD  
Pixel resolution 980 (horizontal) × 494 (vertical)  
(DSR-500WSL)  
Registration  
Input connectors AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2:XLR-3 pin  
× 2, female  
980 (horizontal) × 582 (vertical)  
(DSR-500WSPL)  
–60 dBu, 3 kΩ  
+4 dBu, 10 kΩ  
Imaging area  
9.6 × 5.4 mm (corresponds to 2/3  
-
inch picture tube)  
(0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms)  
GEN LOCK IN: BNC  
1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
Built-in filter settings  
1: 3200K  
VIDEO IN: BNC  
2: 5600K + 1/8ND  
3: 5600K  
1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
(When fitting DSBK-501/501P.  
The connector shares with GEN  
LOCK IN)  
4: 5600K + 1/64ND  
Sony 2/3-inch bayonet mount  
Lens mount  
Signal standards EIA standard signal (NTSC color  
system) (DSR-500WSL)  
CCIR standard signal (PAL colour  
system) (DSR-500WSPL)  
Scanning system 525 lines, 2:1 interlace (DSR-  
500WSL)  
625 lines, 2:1 interlace  
(DSR-500WSPL)  
Scanning frequencies  
TC IN: BNC  
0.5 to 18 Vp-p, 10 kΩ  
DC IN: XLR-4 pin, male  
Output connectors  
DV OUT: 6-pin IEEE1394, × 1  
AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2: phono  
jack  
–10 dBu, 47 kΩ  
(0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms)  
VIDEO OUT:  
Horizontal: 15.734 kHz  
(DSR-500WSL)  
BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
MONITOR OUT:  
15.625 kHz (DSR-500WSPL)  
Vertical: 59.94 Hz (DSR-500WSL)  
50.00 Hz (DSR-500WSPL)  
Synchronization Internal sync  
External sync, using signal input  
(VBS or BS) to the GEN LOCK  
IN/VIDEO IN connector or  
input to the VTR connector.  
Horizontal resolution1)  
BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
S VIDEO OUT: DIN 4 pin  
1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω  
TC OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p,  
75 Ω  
DC OUT: 4 pin, female  
EARPHONE: mini-jack  
–∞ to –15.5 dBu variable, 8 Ω  
LENS: 12-pin  
16:9 Mode: 800 TV lines (center)  
4:3 Mode: 850 TV lines (center)  
Minimum illumination  
VF: 20-pin  
VTR: 26-pin  
LIGHT : 2-pin  
0.5 lux (at F/1.4, +36 dB)  
0.8 lux (at F/1.8, +36 dB)  
Control connectors  
REMOTE 1: stereo mini-jack  
REMOTE 2: 10-pin  
Sensitivity  
Gain levels  
2000 lux (F/11.0 standard, 3200 K)  
Selectable –3 dB, 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB,  
9 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB +  
DPR, 24 dB, 24 dB + DPR, hyper  
gain  
Power supply  
11 to 17 V DC  
Power consumption  
24 W  
Operating temperature  
0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) For details on measuring horizontal resolution, see page  
134.  
Appendix  
131  
Specifications  
Audio system (at playback with the DSR-85/  
85P)  
Storage temperature  
–20°C to +60°C (–4°F to 140°F)  
Mass  
3.6 kg approx. (7 lb 15 oz)  
(camcorder only)  
Frequency response  
2-channel mode: 20 Hz to 20 kHz  
+0.5/–1.0 dB  
4-channel mode: 20 Hz to 14.5  
kHz +0.5/–1.0 dB  
External dimensions in millimeters (inches)  
Dynamic range  
Min. 80 dB  
Distortion (THD) (1 kHz, Max. 0.08%  
reference level, 48 kHz)  
242 (95⁄8  
)
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder  
Picture tube  
Indicators  
1.5-inch monochrome  
REC/TALLY (×2), BATT, TAKE,  
SHUTTER, GAIN UP  
600 TV lines  
280 (111⁄8  
)
121  
(47⁄8  
)
Resolution  
536 (211⁄8  
)
Power supply  
12 V DC  
Power consumption  
Tape transport system  
Tape speed Approx. 28.2 mm/s  
2.1 W  
Mass  
620 g approx. (1 lb 5 oz)  
Recording/playback time (using PDV-184ME)  
Max. 184 minutes  
Fast forward/rewind time (using PDV-184ME)  
Max. 12 minutes  
Maximum external dimensions  
241 (W) × 91 (H) × 203 (D) mm  
(91/2 × 35/8 × 8 inches)  
RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit  
Usable cassettes  
Model name  
Size  
1
Dimensions  
Mass  
85 × 25 × 12 mm (33/8 × 1 × /2  
inches) (excluding projections)  
Approx. 50 g (1 oz) (including  
cable)  
PDV-64ME/64MEM/94ME/124ME/  
124MEM/184ME/184MEM  
Standard size  
PDVM-12ME/22ME/32ME/32MEM/  
40ME/40MEM  
Mini size  
Cable  
5 m (16 feet), with mini-plug  
Video system (at playback with the DSR-85/  
85P)  
Bandwidth Luminance (Y) DSR-500WSL: 30 Hz to  
5.0 MHz ±1.0 dB  
Operating temperature range  
–10°C to +45°C (14°F to 113°F)  
Storable temperature range  
–20°C to +60°C (–4°F to 140°F)  
DSR-500WSPL: 25 Hz to  
5.5 MHz +1.0/–2.0 dB  
Accessories  
Stickers (1 set)  
Panning rod mounting bracket (1)  
Chrominance  
(R–Y/B–Y)  
DSR-500WSL: 30 Hz to  
1.5 MHz +1.0/–5.0 dB  
DSR-500WSPL: 25 Hz to  
2.0 MHz +1.0/–2.0 dB  
S/N ratio  
Luminance  
Min. 55 dB  
K-factor (K2T, KPB)  
Y/C time delay  
Max. 2%  
Max. 30 nsec.  
132  
Appendix  
Synthesized tuner products  
CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor  
Supplied accessories  
WRR-810A/855A/860A UHF Synthesized Tuner  
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder (1)  
Microphone (1)  
Wind screen (1)  
VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor (1)  
Shoulder strap (1)  
RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit (1)  
Lens mount cap (1)  
Microphone products  
ECM-670/672 Electret Condenser Microphone  
C-74 Condenser Microphone  
CAC-12 Microphone Holder  
EC-0.5C2/0.3C2 Microphone Cable  
Flange focal length adjustment test chart (1)  
Binding tie (4)  
Operating Instructions (1)  
Studio equipment  
SEG-2550A/2550AP Special Effects Unit  
DFS-300/300P/500/500P DME Switcher  
DCK-500/500P Chroma Keyer  
WEX-2000 Wipe Pattern Extender  
DXF-51 5-inch Viewfinder (monochrome)  
Design and specifications are subject to change  
without notice.  
Cables and miscellaneous  
Related Products  
The suffix number on a cable part number indicates the  
length in meters: e.g. a CCZ-A2 is 2 meters long.  
(Approximate equivalents in feet: 2 m = 6 ft, 5 m =  
16 ft, 10 m = 33 ft, 25 m = 82 ft, 50 m = 164 ft, 100 m  
= 328 ft)  
There is a range of Sony products available to meet  
every conceivable video shooting requirement. For  
details, consult your Sony sales representative or  
supplier.  
Camera cables with Z-type 26-pin connectors  
CCZ-A2/A5/A10/A25  
Camera cables with Q-type 14-pin and Z-type 26-pin  
connectors  
Lenses  
VCL-916BYA/918BY Zoom Lens  
CCZQ-A2/A5/A10/A2AM  
Remote control unit  
RCP-TX7 Remote Control Unit  
RM-M7G/LG1/VJ1 Remote Control Unit  
i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable )  
CCFD-3L (6-piny4-pin, 3.5 m)  
CCF-3L (6-piny6-pin, 3.5 m)  
DSBK-301A Index Picture Board  
DSBK-501/501P Analog Composite Input Board  
LCR-1 Rain Cover  
LC-DS500 Carrying Case  
LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case  
VCR products  
BVV-5/5P Videocassette Recorder  
DNV-5/5P Videocassette Recorder  
BVW-50/50P Portable Videocassette Recorder  
DSR-20/20P/70/70P/2000/2000P Digital  
Videocassette Recorder VA-5/5P/90/90P VTR  
Adaptor  
Battery products  
BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A Battery Pack  
NP-1B/BP-90A Battery Pack  
BC-1WD/1WDCE/410/410CE Battery Charger  
BC-L50/L100/L100CE Battery Charger  
AC power supply  
CMA-8A/8ACE AC Adaptor  
AC-550/550CE/DN1/DN2A AC Adaptor  
Appendix  
133  
Specifications  
Measuring Horizontal Resolution  
A
4:3 resolution  
chart  
Horizontal  
resolution:  
Approx. 935 TV  
lines  
16:9 video  
Horizontal resolution in 16:9 mode  
When the horizontal image frame of this camera is  
aligned with the width of the 4:3 resolution chart, the  
resolution is about 935 TV lines (see Figure A).  
However, to measure the resolution of a video camera  
precisely, the vertical image frame must be aligned  
with the height of the chart. When this is done, the  
resolution is approximately 800 TV lines (see Figure  
B).  
B
4:3 resolution  
chart  
Horizontal resolution in 4:3 mode  
In 4:3 mode, frame memory is used to extract the 4:3  
area from the 16:9 video signals produced by the WS  
CCD, and the 4:3 signals are electronically enlarged.  
As a result, the horizontal resolution is approximately  
850 TV lines (see Figure C).  
Horizontal  
resolution:  
Approx. 800  
TV lines  
16:9 video  
C
Horizontal  
resolution:  
Approx. 800  
TV lines  
16:9 video  
Horizontal  
resolution:  
Approx. 850  
TV lines  
4:3 video  
134  
Appendix  
Chart of Optional Components and Accessories  
Video monitor  
CCZ-A cable  
EC-0.5C2/0.3C2 Microphone  
Cable  
BVW-50/50P Betacam SP  
VCR  
ECM-670/672 and C-74  
Microphone  
CCZQ-A cable  
S VHS VCR  
CAC-12 Microphone Holder  
CCZ-A cable  
CCZ-A cable  
VA-5/5P + BVV-5/5P  
VA-5/5P + DNV-5/5P  
DSBK-301A Index  
Picture Board  
DXF-51 5-inch  
Viewfindera)  
DSR-70/70P  
Digital  
Videocassette  
Recorder  
DSR-20/20P Digital  
Videocassette Recorder  
DSBK-501/501P  
Analog Composite  
Input Board  
DVCAM mini size cassette tape  
DVCAM standard size  
cassette tape  
DSR-500WSL/500WSPL  
CCA-7 cable  
CCA-7-7A cable  
BC-1WD/  
1WDCE  
Battery  
DC-L1  
Battery Adaptor  
Charger  
RCP-TX7  
Remote Control Unit  
NP-1B  
Battery Pack  
RM-M7G  
Remote Control Unit  
DC-L90  
Battery Adaptor  
BC-410/410CE  
Battery Charger  
BP-90A  
Battery Pack  
RM-LG1  
Remote Control Unit  
RM-VJ1  
Remote Control Unit  
(CCA-7-7A cable is  
required)  
BP-L40/L60/L60A/  
L90/L90A  
Battery Pack  
BC-L100/L100CE  
Battery Charger  
BC-L50  
Battery Charger  
VCT-U14 Tripod  
Adaptor  
AC-DN1 AC  
Adaptor b)  
Tripod  
CMA-8A/8ACE or AC-  
550/550CE AC Adaptor  
AC-DN2A AC  
Adaptor c)  
CA-WR855  
Camera Adaptor  
WRR-855A UHF  
Synthesized Tuner  
LC-DS300SFT  
Soft Carrying Case  
LC-DS500 Carrying Case  
LCR-1 Raincover  
a) Optional accessory shoe kit is required for fitting. For details, consult your Sony dealer.  
b) Use when power consumption of the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL and accessories is 38 W  
or lower.  
c) When power consumption is 38 W or higher due to fiting a video light (with power  
consumption of 30 W or lower) to the DSR-500WSL/500WSPL, use the AC-DN2A (150  
W or lower).  
Appendix  
135  
What Is ClipLink?  
The ClipLinkTM function greatly improves the  
efficiency of the video production process as a whole  
by recording various editing-related data on tape when  
shooting. As such, ClipLink is a revolutionary  
function that transcends the conventional separation of  
shooting and editing.  
Next, begin rough editing by viewing the Index  
Pictures on the EditStation’s GUI display and  
rearranging them as you wish. This eliminates the  
difficult work of matching up a handwritten shot list  
with recorded scenes. After you have completed this  
rough editing, you can then transfer only the  
recordings needed for your video program.  
Note  
When an external equipment, such as VCR, is  
connected to the DV OUT connector, the ClipLink  
function will not work.  
High-speed transfer of recordings  
It is also possible to transfer the editing material itself  
between the DSR-85/85P and ES-7 at four times  
normal speed. In other words, the transfer can be  
carried out in one fourth of the real time duration. It is  
of course possible to carry out a transfer at four times  
normal speed when backing up video and audio data  
recorded on the disk drive to the DSR-85/85P, or in the  
opposite direction when loading data backed up on the  
DSR-85/85P to the disk drive. Thus the time required  
is much shorter than with conventional equipment (for  
which, for example, transferring a 40-minute segment  
of video takes 40 minutes).  
How ClipLink Changes Video  
Production Techniques  
The following describes various ways in which  
ClipLink1) video production differs from conventional  
video production.  
Recording of ClipLink log data lightens  
the shooting workload  
Note  
When you start shooting a scene, ClipLink log data  
such as the scene number and time code data are  
automatically recorded into the cassette memory. This  
eliminates the need for a conventional “shot list”  
compiled by someone using a stopwatch, clipboard  
and pencil. You can also designate unwanted scenes as  
“NG” (no good) and automatically skip all “NG”  
scenes when editing.  
When using a tape recorded by the DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL to transfer digital (video/audio/time code)  
signals at four times normal speed from the DSR-85/  
85P Digital Videocassette Recorder to the ES-7  
EditStation for editing purposes, there must be about at  
least 40 seconds of recording on the tape before the IN  
point. To perform editing without problems, it is  
recommended that you pre-record at least 40  
seconds of color bar signals at the beginning of the  
tape.  
Recorded Index Pictures drastically cut  
editing time  
The ClipLink function also features Index  
Pictures a time-saving tool for rough editing. Each  
Index Picture is a compressed image taken from the  
start of each scene, which is recorded onto the tape as  
a still picture. When editing, begin by transferring  
only the Index Pictures and the ClipLink log data to  
the EditStation’s hard disk. You can also transfer OK  
scenes only (“NG” scenes are skipped).  
..........................................................................................................................................................................................................  
1) The ClipLink system is a video production system which  
uses the cassette memory function.  
136  
Appendix  
ClipLink Operation Flow  
The following is a detailed description of how to use  
the ClipLink function during the video production  
process.  
Example System Configuration  
The following illustration shows the optimum system  
configuration for using the ClipLink function.  
ClipLink operation is possible even with a system  
containing existing analog equipment. However, note  
that a part of functions are disabled.  
Shooting  
DVCAM standard cassette or DVCAM mini cassette  
DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL Digital  
Camcorder  
Index Pictures: recorded on  
tape  
ClipLink log data: recorded in  
cassette memory  
ClipLink log data recorded onto DVCAM cassettes  
links shooting and editing operations.  
ClipLink log data transfer  
ES-3/7 EditStation™  
non-linear editing  
system  
DSR-60a)/80/85b) (or  
DSR-60Pa)/80P/85Pb))  
Digital Videocassette  
Recorder  
Index Pictures  
Video output (QSDI)  
ClipLink log data  
RS-422A interface  
Editing  
ES-3/7 EditStation™  
non-linear editing  
system  
DSR-60a)/80/85b) (or  
DSR-60Pa)/80P/85Pb))  
Digital Videocassette  
Recorder  
Actual AV data  
QSDI input/output  
a) The DSR-60/60P is a videocassette player.  
b) Between the DSR-85/85P and ES-7, quadruple transfer is possible through the QSDI.  
Appendix  
137  
ClipLink Operation Flow  
Data Generated When Shooting  
The following describes the kinds of data that is  
generated when using the ClipLink function.  
Index Pictures  
When shooting, a single-frame image from the Mark  
IN point at the start of each scene is recorded as a still  
picture into the DSBK-301A’s internal memory.  
These images are called “Index Pictures”. When you  
finish shooting, the Index Pictures from all scenes are  
recorded onto the tape after the last scene.  
Index Picture  
0
90  
180  
270  
360  
450  
540  
630  
1
2
3
4
60  
120  
180  
240  
300  
360  
420  
5
6
7
8
9
10  
14  
18  
22  
26  
30  
11  
15  
19  
23  
27  
31  
12  
16  
20  
24  
28  
32  
13  
17  
21  
25  
29  
Tape  
Scene n  
Scene 3  
Scene 2  
Scene 1  
DSBK-301A’s internal  
memory  
720 dots  
After shooting, the Index  
Pictures in the internal  
memory are recorded onto  
the video tape.  
Seven frame spaces are reserved at the end of the last  
scene as a recording area for Index Pictures. (A  
cassette with 16 Kbits of cassette memory can record  
up to 198 Index Pictures, and a cassette with 4 Kbits of  
cassette memory can record up to 45 Index Pictures.)  
Up to 32 Index Pictures can be recorded onto the tape  
space normally occupied by one frame, as shown  
below.  
ClipLink log data  
convenient alternative to the conventional “shot list”.  
ClipLink log data includes the following items.  
ClipLink log data can be recorded automatically or  
manually into the cassette memory for use as a  
ClipLink log data  
Description  
Data (maximum length: 8 digits) consisting of alphanumeric characters and/or symbols  
(This is left blank at shipping.)  
Reel number (cassette number)  
Scene number  
A three-digit number from 001 to 198 (starts at 001 and is automatically incremented  
with each scene).  
This cannot be changed (set to “1” at shipping).  
Take number  
OK/NG  
Indicates the OK/NG status of a particular scene. (In the OK case, nothing is  
recorded.)  
Mark IN/OUT point time codes  
These are the time codes that indicate the Mark IN and Mark OUT points for each  
scene (HH:MM:SS). These time codes are recorded when the camcorder has been  
set to MARK mode.  
The frame digit is incremented at each Mark IN point and is decremented at each Mark  
OUT point. (For details, see “Time codes recorded for Mark IN/OUT points” on page  
140.)  
Cue point time code  
This is the time code that indicates the cue points (valid up to the frame digit). This  
time code is recorded when the camcorder has been set to CUE mode. When in this  
mode, the time codes at the start and end of a recording (the Rec IN and Rec OUT  
time codes) are automatically recorded as Mark IN/OUT points.  
138  
Appendix  
Cue point time codes  
How to record ClipLink log data  
This type of data is especially useful when shooting  
scenes that may contain unexpected events, such as  
when shooting for sports coverage or documentaries.  
Set the camcorder to CUE mode before you start to  
record. While recording, each time you press the  
camera’s TAKE button, the current time code is  
recorded as a cue point time code.  
The following describes how to record the various  
ClipLink log data items.  
OK/NG status  
To designate a scene as “NG”, press the NG button on  
the camcorder while shooting the scene or at any time  
before you begin shooting the next scene.  
All scenes that do not receive an “NG” designation are  
recorded as “OK” scenes.  
Start  
End  
Index Picture 1  
recording  
recording  
(When you exit the VCR recording mode, changing  
the OK/NG status is no longer possible.)  
Scene 1  
Take 1  
Mark IN/OUT points time codes  
This data is especially useful when shooting a video  
program for which a scenario has been created.  
Set the camcorder to MARK mode before you start  
shooting. While shooting, each time you press the  
camcorder’s TAKE button, Mark IN and Mark OUT  
time codes are recorded alternately.  
Rec OUT  
(automatic  
recording)  
Cue point  
time code  
(manual  
Cue point  
time code  
(manual  
recording)  
Cue point  
time code  
(manual  
recording)  
Rec IN  
(automatic  
recording)  
recording)  
Index Picture 1  
Index Picture 2  
Start  
End  
recording  
recording  
Scene 1  
Take 1  
Scene 2  
Take 1  
Mark OUT (manual  
recording)  
Mark IN (manual  
recording)  
Mark OUT  
(manual  
recording)  
Mark IN  
(manual  
recording)  
Appendix  
139  
ClipLink Operation Flow  
Time codes recorded for Mark IN/OUT points  
There is a gap between actual time codes and Mark IN/  
OUT time codes recorded in the cassette memory, as  
shown in the figure below. The frame digit is  
incremented at each Mark IN point and is decremented  
at each Mark OUT point.  
Mark IN  
(or Rec IN)  
Mark OUT  
(or Rec OUT)  
Cue  
Actual time code  
12:23:15:10  
12:34:20:20  
12:39:24:23  
Frame digit  
incremented  
Frame digit  
decremented  
Cue  
Time code  
recorded in the  
cassette memory  
12:23:16  
12:34:20:20  
12:39:24  
(The Index  
Picture is the  
image around  
12:23:15:10.)  
Recording capacity for Mark IN/OUT time codes and Cue point time codes  
When in MARK mode, up to 198 pairs of Mark IN and  
Mark OUT points can be recorded (if using a cassette  
with 16 Kbits of cassette memory).  
When in CUE mode, up to 396 time codes points  
(including all cue point time codes and all Mark (Rec)  
IN and Mark (Rec) OUT time codes) can be recorded  
(if using a cassette with 16 Kbits of cassette memory).  
140  
Appendix  
Glossary  
Aliasing  
Condensation  
Horizontal resolution  
The capability of a CCD camera to  
preserve detail in the horizontal  
resolution.  
Usually expressed as the number  
of vertical lines which can be  
distinguished in the reproduced  
image of a test chart.  
Distortion of the signal caused by  
overlap of the baseband signal and  
lower sideband signal when the  
signal is demodulated.  
Condensation refers to tiny  
droplets of water that can appear in  
a device, such as in the tape  
transport system. When  
condensation occurs on a video  
head drum, the tape may stick to  
the drum, which can damage not  
only the tape but also the VCR  
unit.  
Aperture compensation  
Electronic compensation for  
frequency response degradations  
caused to sampled high-frequency  
signals by the limited aperture of  
CCD image sensors.  
i.LINK  
i.LINK stands for IEEE1394-1995  
stan-dards and their revisions. It is  
applied to the DV connector  
through which DV signals can be  
transmitted with AV protocol.  
DCC  
Dynamic Contrast Control. A  
video camera containing a CCD  
circuit can handle a wide dynamic  
range of luminance.  
Black balance adjustment  
To balance the black levels of the  
R, G, and B channels of a video  
camera so that black has no color.  
IRE scale  
Drum  
See “Head drum”.  
The scale to determine video  
signal amplitudes devised by the  
Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE),  
an American organization now  
called the Institute of Electrical  
and Electronic Engineers (IEEE).  
The IRE scale includes a total of  
140 units, with 100 up and 40  
down from zero.  
CCD  
Charge-coupled device. A solid  
state imager used in most recent  
video cameras in place of a pickup  
tube. It converts input light levels  
into electrical charges, which are  
once stored and then output in the  
form of voltage variations.  
Flare  
Dark or colored flashes caused by  
signal overload through extreme  
light reflections of polished objects  
or very bright lights.  
Flicker  
Center marker  
Repeated change of brightness on  
the screen, which is caused by  
frequency difference between the  
camera’s scanning and the  
variations in the lightning.  
PCM audio  
A cross that indicates the center of  
the image on the viewfinder  
screen.  
PCM stands for “Pulse Code  
Modulation.” PCM audio means  
audio signals that have been  
processed by pulse code  
Color conversion filter  
modulation. Each analog audio  
signal is converted into pulses that  
are generated in rapid succession,  
and each pulse is recorded as a  
digital signal having a value of 0  
or 1.  
An optical filter used with color  
video cameras to convert the color  
temperature of a light source.  
Gen-lock  
Abbreviation of “generator lock”.  
It refers to the synchronization of a  
VCR to a reference sync signal.  
Color temperature  
The temperature in Kelvins (K) to  
represent the color of a light  
source.  
HAD  
Hole-Accumulated Diode. A CCD  
sensor structure designed to  
suppress certain types of noise  
inherent CCDs. See also CCD.  
Pedestal level  
A black level which is the absolute  
black level of a video signal.  
Composite video signal  
A composite video signal includes  
a video signal, burst signal, and  
sync signal.  
Return video  
Head drum  
This refers to a video signal  
returned from the VCR to the  
camcorder or from the CCU to one  
camcorder in a multi-camera  
system, allowing the camcorder  
operator to monitor the image  
output from the camcorder or shot  
on other camcorders.  
A metal cylinder to which a video  
head is attached. This drum is  
rotated at high speeds in  
synchronization with the sync  
signal during recording and  
playback.  
Appendix  
141  
Glossary  
S/N  
S video connectors  
Video gain  
Signal-to-Noise ratio. The relation  
of the strength of the desired signal  
to the accompanying electronic  
interference, the noise. If S/N is  
high, sounds are reproduced with  
less noise and pictures are  
Input/output connectors for  
separate Y (luminance) and C  
(chroma) signals. This method  
eliminates interference between Y  
and C signals that can occur in  
conventional composite video  
signals to obtain a higher-  
resolution picture.  
Amount of amplification for video  
signals, expressed in decibels (dB).  
White balance adjustment  
In the light of a particular color  
temperature, to adjust the white  
levels of the R, G, and B channels  
of a color video camera so that any  
white object shot in that light is  
reproduced as a truly white image.  
reproduced clearly without snow.  
Search  
The search function enables  
recorded images or time codes to  
be viewed while the tape is played  
back at various forward or reverse  
speeds, as a means of locating a  
particular scene in the taped  
program.  
Sync  
This refers to the sync  
(synchronization) signal. The sync  
signal is used as a reference signal  
for duplicating the scanning  
patterns recorded via a camcorder  
when playing back the recording  
on a monitor. The sync signal  
actually includes two signals: a  
horizontal sync signal and a  
vertical sync signal.  
Zebra pattern  
Striped patterns which appear in  
the viewfinder to indicate areas of  
the image where the video level is  
about 70 IRE (NTSC) or 70%  
(PAL). The DSR-500WSL/  
500WSPL can show areas where  
the video level is 100 IRE (NTSC)  
or 100% (PAL).  
Standby-off mode  
One of the stop modes. In this  
mode, head drum rotation is  
stopped and the tape tension is  
slackened. It is not possible to  
switch instantaneously from this  
mode to recording or playback  
mode. This mode is not harmful to  
the tape or heads.  
Time code  
The time code is a tape position  
information signal that includes  
time and frame data that are  
recorded onto the tape when  
shooting so as to facilitate  
searching of editing points and  
recorded scenes when viewing or  
editing.  
Standby-on mode  
One of the stop modes. In this  
mode, the head drum continues  
rotating and the tape remains  
wound onto the drum. This mode  
enables instantaneous switching to  
recording or playback mode. To  
prevent damage to the tape or  
heads, the device automatically  
switches from standby-on mode to  
standby-off mode after a certain  
period of time.  
User bits  
These are also referred to as  
“users’ bits”. The user bits are a  
32-bit segment of the time code  
recording area. The user can select  
what to record in this segment and  
how to use the recorded data. For  
example, it can be used to record  
date information in addition to the  
time code data or ID numbers for  
tape reels or programs.  
142  
Appendix  
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan  

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