Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
HVR-A1U
HDV FORMAT
1
HDV 1080i Specification
The HDV 1080i specification of the HDV format features
1,080 effective scanning lines (interlace scanning system) and
1,440 horizontal pixels. It adopts the MPEG-2 compression
format (MP@H-14 for video), which uses 8-bit digital
component recording with a sampling rate of 4:2:0. MPEG-1
Audio Layer II is used as the audio compression format,
allowing for two-channel recording with a sampling frequency
of 48 kHz/16-bit. The HDV 1080i specification provides high
picture quality that can be used for HDTV program
production.
Compatible with Existing and
New DV Videocassette Tape
1 The HDV format also defines the HDV 720p specification, which features 720
effective scanning lines (progressive scanning system) and 1,280 horizontal
pixels.
As a member of the proven DV family of formats, the HDV
format has, from the outset, been developed for compatibility
with all grades of DV videocassette tape. This allows
operators to use high-grade DV videocassette tapes for
applications where high robustness is critical, or consumer-
grade videocassette tapes for more economical operations.
For heavy-duty applications, a new high-grade mini cassette
tape has been developed; the DigitalMasterTM PHDVM-63DM.
This tape is compatible with the HDV, DVCAM, and DV
formats.
Track Pattern of the HDV 1080i Specification
Direction of tape travel
10 μm
Sub Code sector
MPEG-2 PES sector
(Video + Audio + Search + AUX)
Direction
of head motion
1/4 inch
(6.35 mm)
Long Recording Time
ITI sector
The HDV format adopts the same track pitch and tape speed
as the DV format, thus offering the same recording time
– a maximum of 63 minutes when recording on a
DigitalMaster mini cassette tape.
ITI: Insert and Track Information
PES: Packetized Elementary Stream
3
CAMERA FEATURES
1/3-inch Type, 2.97-megapixel CMOS Sensor
Optical 10x Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T*
Zoom Lens
The HVR-A1U incorporates one 1/3-inch type primary color
CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensor
with a total pixel number of 2.97 million and a 4:3 aspect ratio,
which has been developed based on Sony’s many years of
experience in developing imaging devices.
The HVR-A1U is equipped with the new Carl Zeiss Vario-
Sonnar T®* high-definition lens with 10x zoom function. Its
fully coated glass is the same as used on Carl Zeiss prime
lenses, producing sharp, high-contrast images, with virtually no
chromatic aberration.
This CMOS sensor can produce high-quality images with high
sensitivity and low noise levels, which is superior to most of
traditional CMOS sensors due to advantages such as its
unique pixel design, which optimizes the photo-sensor area in
each pixel, and advanced noise reduction technique. Another
key advantage of this CMOS sensor is its high-speed
processing capability. Since data captured using a single
CMOS sensor for high-definition format recording is extremely
large, it would take considerable time to transfer and process
by traditional methods. With the Sony CMOS sensor, such
large data can be processed at an incredibly high speed
thanks to its flexible multi-channel readout structure. Use of
the CMOS sensor also allows even large amounts of HD-
resolution data to be processed with amazingly low power
requirements, thus making the camcorder’s overall size
extremely compact. Lastly, CMOS sensors can eliminate
vertical smear, even though the pixel size is small.
Electronic Super SteadyShot System
The Super SteadyShot™ system used in the HVR-A1U
detects horizontal and vertical movements and electronically
compensates for unsteady camera handling. The active image
area (the number of pixels used) in the CMOS sensor is
automatically adjusted for the Super SteadyShot system to
achieve the best performance at each zoom position.
Full Scan Mode
The HVR-A1U camcorder offers a Full Scan mode, which
allows the camcorder to capture images with the resolution of
approximately two million pixels at every zoom position when
the Super SteadyShot system is off. With this mode, images
of higher picture quality can be obtained.
Enhanced Imaging Processor (EIP)
The EIP is Sony’s newly developed image processing IC
intended for high-speed processing of large amounts of data
captured by the CMOS sensor. In addition, the EIP employs
the unique algorithm that first separates image data into
texture patterns and brightness components and then
processes these two elements independently. This makes it
possible to have high details in the blacks as well as in
brightly illuminated areas of the picture, delivering a clear
image with a wide dynamic range even under backlight
conditions2.
Combined use of the EIP and CMOS sensor allows the
camcorder to provide extremely high image quality with a
high level of gradation and detailed image reproduction.
2 Available when the new Backlight Compensation function is activated.
4
RECORDER FEATURES
Switchable Recording and Playback
– HDV 1080i/DVCAM/DV3
Still Picture Recording to
Memory Stick Duo Media
The HVR-A1U can switch between HDV 1080i, DVCAM, and
DV recording, providing full flexibility to record in either
standard or high-definition format depending on production
needs.
The HVR-A1U incorporates a high-resolution digital camera
function. Thanks to the 2.97-megapixel CMOS sensor, still
pictures with 1,920 x 1,440 pixels can be recorded to Memory
Stick Duo™ media. Still pictures can be captured by pressing
the dedicated ‘Photo’ button, and this can be done even
when recording video to tape, without any interruptions. In
addition, any desired video frame recorded on tape can be
captured as a still image with 1,440 x 810 pixels5 and
recorded onto Memory Stick Duo media after video shooting.
5 When captured from a tape recorded in the HDV format.
3 The HVR-A1U supports DV SP mode only; no support for DV LP mode.
Down-conversion Playback Capabilities
The HVR-A1U can convert material from 1080i down to 480i,
and output these video signals through its i.LINK®4 interface.
In addition, these signals can also be output via either analog
component, composite, or S-Video connectors. This allows
editing of recorded material with a nonlinear editing system
using current DV editing software as well as recording SD
signals to an external VTR, while simultaneously recording
HDV signals with the HVR-A1U. The HVR-A1U can also
down-convert to 480P and output these signals through its
analog component video connectors.
Resolution of Still Pictures
Still Picture Mode
Video Recording Mode
Video Playback Mode
Resolution of Still Pictures
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1920 x 1440 (4:3)
1440 x 1080 (4:3)
1080 x 810 (4:3)
640 x 480 (4:3)
1920 x 1080 (16:9)
1440 x 810 (16:9)
640 x 360 (16:9)
When down-converting these signals, the aspect ratio
displayed can be converted from 16:9 to 4:3. Display modes
can be selected from Squeeze, Letterbox, or Edge crop.
16:9 Widescreen Acquisition in DVCAM and
DV Formats
4 i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains
an IEEE 1394 connector. Not all products with an i.LINK connector will
necessarily communicate with each other. For information on compatibility,
operating conditions, and proper connection, please refer to the documentation
supplied with any device with an i.LINK connector. For information on devices
that include an i.LINK connection, please contact your nearest Sony office.
The HVR-A1U is capable of native 16:9 widescreen image
capturing, with a high resolution of 720 x 480 pixels in
DVCAM and DV formats, and providing true 16:9 images in
Standard Definition.
i.LINK Interface
DVCAM/DV (4:3)
HDV 1080i (16:9)
The HVR-A1U is equipped with a 4-pin i.LINK interface.
This allows for on-cable digital transfer6 of audio, video, and
command signals to a connected, compatible VTR or
nonlinear editing system in the HDV, DVCAM, and DV
formats.
Squeeze
Letterbox
Edge crop
Recording, Playback, and Down-conversion Formats
Output
6 Insert and assemble editing using HDV material is not recommended with the
HVR-A1U.
Playback/
Recording
Format
i.LINK
Analog
Analog
Down Conversion Format
S-Video
Component
Composite
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1080/60i
1080/60i
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480/60i (16:9/4:3)
480/60i (16:9/4:3)
480/60i (16:9/4:3)
480/60i (4:3)
2-channel XLR Audio Input
Δ1
Δ1
Δ1
Δ2
Δ2
Δ2
480/60i (16:9)
480/60i (4:3)
The HVR-A1U provides two XLR audio input connectors for
connecting professional microphones or for feeding an
external-line audio source. Phantom power of approx. 48 V
can be supplied for the external condenser microphone.
INPUT 1 audio can be recorded on CH1 only, or on both CH1
and CH2 audio tracks, with easy selection via a switch.
The HVR-A1U also comes equipped with two types of
microphones; an external directional microphone and a built-
in stereo microphone.
●: Available
OΔ: Either Δ1 or Δ2 connection is available. When both are connected to cables, the Δ1 connection has a priority.
HD Codec Engine
The HVR-A1U employs the highly advanced HD Codec
Engine™ feature, which efficiently compresses base band HD
signal data at approx. 25 Mb/s with MPEG-2 compression,
while maintaining optimal HD
quality. Designed for reduced
energy consumption, this powerful
digital signal processor fits
perfectly inside the compact and
2-channel Independent Audio Record Level
Control with Audio Level Meter
Each input level for CH1
and CH2 can be
independently adjusted and
viewed with an audio level
meter on the LCD monitor.
streamlined body of the HVR-A1U.
5
OPERATIONAL & CREATIVE VERSATILITY
Compact and Lightweight Design
Zoom/Focus Ring
The HVR-A1U features an extremely compact and lightweight
body, providing an unprecedented level of mobility in HD field
acquisition. The camcorder itself weighs only 1 lb 7 oz (670 g)
and just 2 lb 14 oz (1.3 kg) including the lens hood, XLR
audio adaptor, directional microphone,
Built-in Stereo Microphone
BACK LIGHT Compensation Button
NP-QM91D InfoLITHIUMTM Rechargeable Battery
Pack, and PHDVM-63DM DigitalMaster Mini
Cassette Tape.
Zoom Buttons
16:9, Color/Black-and-white Switchable LCD
Viewfinder
The 0.44-inch type color LCD viewfinder displays high-
resolution color pictures of approx. 252,000 pixels in a
widescreen aspect ratio of 16:9. Operators can select to
display pictures in either color or black and white to match
the user’s preference.
2.7-inch7 Type, 16:9 Widescreen, Hybrid,
Color LCD Monitor
The HVR-A1U includes a 2.7-inch type color LCD monitor
TELE MACRO Button
with a high resolution of approx. 123,200 pixels, which allows
the input source to be viewed during recording or the
playback picture to be checked on location in a widescreen
aspect ratio of 16:9. This large screen is also helpful in
setting menus or audio recording levels, as well as monitoring
the camera and audio status. The hybrid LCD monitor used
in the camcorder combines the characteristics of both
transmissive and reflective LCD panels, providing clear
viewing even in bright daylight conditions as well as in dark
conditions.
DC IN Jack
A/V OUT Jack
EXPANDED FOCUS Button
Exposure Lever/Button
COMPONENT OUT Jack
HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) Jack
USB Jack
Tele Macro
This LCD monitor also provides touch-panel control for easy
operations.
The Tele Macro function allows operators to capture a macro
image from a distance, which is especially useful for shooting
small moving objects. With this function, close-up images
can be shot without the camcorder casting a shadow on the
subject. In addition, the image of the subject is shot in proper
focus, while the background is unfocussed, allowing the
subject to stand out.
7 Viewable area, measured diagonally
Variety of Zoom Operation
The HVR-A1U provides four types of zoom control functions
to offer diverse shooting styles:
● “Zoom lever” located on the camera body
● “Zoom/focus ring” located on the lens body – allows fine
adjustments in zoom position
● “Zoom buttons” located on the LCD monitor – convenient
for low-angle shooting
● Supplied wireless Remote Commander® unit
Conventional Macro
Tele Macro
Images Simulated
Exposure Lever
New Backlight Compensation
The HVR-A1U enables exposure control both manually and
automatically. The Exposure Lever provides two types of
exposure control:
● Manual exposure control to manually change exposure
settings using the Exposure Lever.
● AE (Auto Exposure) Shift function to adjust AE level by 15
steps using the Exposure Lever, while the AE mode is
activated, for more accurate automatic exposure settings.
The new Backlight Compensation function allows the
HVR-A1U to produce natural and rich tones for both light and
dark areas of an image under backlight conditions.
Conventional systems of backlight compensation tend to
make the details in light areas sacrificed, but the new
Backlight Compensation function of the HVR-A1U can deliver
superior images with a very wide dynamic range by increasing
only the brightness of dark areas while properly retaining the
brightness of light areas.
6
Histogram Indicator
2-channel XLR Audio Connectors
The Histogram Indicator for brightness can be displayed on
the LCD monitor and viewfinder, allowing operators to easily
evaluate the brightness of currently captured images for
Zoom Lever
proper exposure.
Distribution Quantity
PHOTO Button
Brightness Level
Images Simulated
Shot Transition
The Shot Transition™ function allows for smooth automatic
scene transitions. The operator can program start and end
settings for zoom, focus, and white balance into the A/B
buttons and, by pressing the start button, a smooth transition
will take place according to the set time, because the camera
automatically calculates the intermediate values during the
scene transition. The start of this function can be
synchronized with the camera’s REC start function.
The transition progress can be checked using an indicator
displayed on the LCD monitor. In addition, a start timer
function is also available for the Shot Transition function,
helping to prevent operators from missing a shot.
NIGHTSHOT Switch
ASSIGN Button
“Memory Stick Duo” Slot
This function is very useful when complex camera settings are
required during the scene transition – for example, when
shooting subjects moving from the background to the
foreground of a scene.
Marker
Four types of markers can be displayed on the LCD monitor
and viewfinder, and can be displayed simultaneously:
CENTER
4:3
Shot A
Shot B
Cinema-like Image Shooting
Two powerful features to produce cinematic and film-like
pictures are provided on the HVR-A1U. The Cinematone
Gamma™ feature allows operators to quickly set up and load
a gamma curve with similar contrast characteristic to a film
gamma curve. The Cineframe™ feature allows picture
movement to be reproduced like a film of 24 and 30 frames/s.
SAFETY ZONE
GUIDE FRAME
Images Simulated
Assign Button
A function frequently used in the field can be assigned to the
Assign Button (push button), located on the right side of the
camera body, allowing operators to make rapid changes
under field conditions. The assignable functions include
Status Check, Super SteadyShot, One Push Auto White
Balance, Histogram Indicator, and Color Bars (two types).
Long Operating Time
With the optional NP-QM91D InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable
Battery Pack attached, the HVR-A1U can continuously record
in HDV mode for up to 300 minutes, or up to 340 minutes in
DVCAM/DV mode.
Time Code Preset
Battery Life
Continuous
Recording Time*
With LCD
Viewfinder On
With LCD
Monitor On**
With LCD Viewfinder
and Monitor On**
The time code can be preset using any number in H/M/S/F
(hours/minutes/seconds/frames) to record desired tape-
position information. The time-code mode can be selected
between “REC RUN” and “FREE RUN”. In addition to the
time code, user bits can also be set.
HDV
NP-FM50 (supplied) 80 min
DVCAM/DV
HDV
75 min
DVCAM/DV
HDV
DVCAM/DV
90 min
90 min
70 min
80 min
NP-QM71D (optional) 200 min 225 min 195 min 220 min 180 min 200 min
NP-QM91D (optional) 300 min 340 min 295 min 330 min 275 min 300 min
* Continuous recording time, indoors at 25C°
**With LCD backlight on
7
OTHER CONVENIENT FUNCTIONS
❚ Simultaneous Operation of LCD Monitor and
❚ Personal Menu - allows operators to customize the
Viewfinder
setting menu to display frequently used menu items.
❚ Expanded Focus - magnifies the center of the screen on
the LCD monitor and viewfinder to about twice the size,
helping manual focusing.
❚ Battery Info - displays the attached battery’s current
charge level and its current remaining recording time on the
LCD monitor with the touch of a button, when the power is
turned off.
❚ Peaking - enhances the outline of the image where the
camera focuses on most, and displays the enhanced
outline with color in the LCD monitor and viewfinder,
helping manual focusing.
TM
❚ Super Night Shot - allows operators to capture images
in black and white using a built-in infrared light, even in no
light conditions.
❚ Zebra - displays a striped pattern in the LCD monitor and
viewfinder across highlight areas, helping manual exposure
settings (100% or 70 to 100% (adjustable by 5% steps)).
❚ Skin Tone Detail - reduces detailed signal for skin color,
smoothening the reproduction of human skin.
❚ Black Stretch - allows more contrast to be seen in dark
parts of the picture without affecting mid-tones while
maintaining the absolute black level.
❚ Quick REC - shortens the time until the recording starts
from stop mode.
❚ Status Check - displays camera setting menus for audio,
output signal, assign button and exposure lever functions
and hours meter on the LCD monitor with the touch of a
button for easy check.
❚ Color Bar - Two types
❚ White Balance - Auto, One Push Auto, Indoor (3200 K),
and Outdoor (5800 K)
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
NP-QM71D/QM91D*
InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable
Battery Pack
2NP-QM91D/B*
InfoLITHIUM Rechargeable
Battery Pack (NP-QM91D x 2)
VCL-HG2037Y
2.0x Tele Conversion Lens
VCL-HG0737Y
0.7x Wide Conversion Lens
LC-A1TH
Hard Carrying Case
LC-A1BP
Soft Carrying Case
VMC-30VC
3m Component Video Cable
VMC-30FS
3m Multi AV Cable (with S Video)
UWP-C1
UHF Synthesized Wireless
Microphone Package
PHDVM-63DM
DigitalMaster Mini Cassette Tape
RM-1BP
LANC Remote Controller
*When the NP-QM91D battery pack is attached to the HVR-A1U, the battery pack protrudes past the viewfinder.
8
SPECIFICATIONS
Camera section
Lens
Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens, 10x (optical),
f = 5.1 to 51 mm
f = 40 to 400 mm in 16:9 mode and 49.3 to 493 mm in 4:3 mode (full scan mode on)*
f = 41 to 480 mm in 16:9 mode and 50 to 590 mm in 4:3 mode (full scan mode off)*
f = 40 to 400 mm in 16:9 mode and 37 to 370 mm in 4:3 mode (still picture mode)*
f = 1.8 to 2.1, filter diameter: 37 mm
Focus
Auto, manual, spot focus (touch panel control)
Imaging device
Picture elements
Shutter speed
1-chip, 1/3-inch type primary color CMOS sensor
Approx. 2,969,000 pixels (total)
1/4, 1/8, 1/15, 1/30, 1/60, 1/90, 1/100, 1/125, 1/180, 1/250, 1/350, 1/500, 1/725, 1/1000, 1/1500, 1/2000, 1/3000, 1/4000,
1/6000, 1/10000 s
7 lx with F1.8
Minimum illumination
VTR section
Recording format
1080/60i, 480/60i
Play out/Down conversion format
1080/60i, 480/60i, 480/60P
HDV/DV SP
DVCAM
HDV/DV SP
DVCAM
Max. 18.812 mm/s with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Max. 28.218 mm/s with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Max. 63 min with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Max. 41 min with PHDVM-63DM cassette
Approx. 2 min 40 s with PHDVM-63DM cassette (using a fully charged battery)
Approx. 1 min 45 s with PHDVM-63DM cassette (using an AC adaptor)
Tape speed
Playback/Recording time
Fast forward/Rewind time
Input/Output connectors
Audio/Video input/output
A/V OUT jack, 10-pin connector
Composite video: 1 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced, sync negative
Y: 1 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced, sync negative
C: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 unbalanced
Audio: 327 mV, input impedance more than 47 k , output impedance less than 2.2 k
Component video output
COMPONENT OUT jack
Y: 1 Vp-p (0.3 V, sync negative), 75 unbalanced
Pr/Pb (Cr/Cb): 700 mVp-p (75% color bar)
HDV/DV input/output
XLR audio input
Headphone
i.LINK interface (IEEE 1394, 4-pin connector S100)
XLR 3-pin female x 2, 327 mV, -60 dBu: 3 k , +40 dBu: 10.8 kΩ, power supply: approx. 48 V
Stereo minijack (φ3.5 mm) x 1
Minijack x 1, 0.388 mV, low impedance with DC 2.5 to 3.0 V, output impedance 6.8 kΩ (φ3.5 mm), stereo type
Stereo mini-minijack (φ2.5 mm) x 1
MIC
LANC
USB
Mini-B x 1
Built-in input/output devices
LCD viewfinder
LCD monitor
Microphone
0.44-inch type, approx. 252,000 (1120 x 225) pixels , hybrid type, 16:9 aspect ratio
2.7-inch type, approx. 123,200 (560 x 220) pixels, hybrid type, 16:9 aspect ratio
Stereo type, noise reduction on/off
φ16 mm
Speaker
General
Weight
Power requirements
Power consumption
Approx. 1 lb 7 oz (670 g) (camcorder only)
DC 7.2 V (battery pack), DC 8.4 V (AC adaptor)
Approx. 5.6 W (recording mode with LCD viewfinder on)
Approx. 5.1 W (recording mode with LCD viewfinder on)
32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C)
HDV
DVCAM/DV
Operating temperature
Storage temperature
Supplied accessories
-4 to 140 °F (-20 to +60 °C)
AC-L15 AC adaptor, power code, NP-FM50 InfoLITHIUM rechargeable battery pack, lens hood with lens cover, RMT-831 wireless
Remote Commander unit, A/V connecting cable with S video, component video cable, USB cable, Memory Stick Duo (16 MB),
Memory Stick Duo adaptor, ECM-NV1 monaural electret condenser microphone, XLR audio adaptor, shoulder strap, operating
instructions
* These values are calculated to be equivalent to the 35 mm film.
5 (125.1)
3 1/2 (88.1)
9 1/8 (230.1)
12 3/8 (313.7)
unit: inches (mm)
9
© 2005 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
Features and specifications are subject to change without notice.
All non-metric weights and measurements are approximate.
Sony Electronics Inc.
1 Sony Drive
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
www.sony.com/HDV
Sony, DVCAM, Memory Stick Duo, DigitalMaster, Enhanced Imaging Processor, SteadyShot, HD
Codec Engine, i.LINK, InfoLITHIUM, Remote Commander, Shot Transition, Cinematone Gamma,
Cineframe, and Night Shot are trademarks of Sony.
HDV and the HDV logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Limited.
*
Vario-Sonnar T is a trademark of Carl Zeiss AG.
V-2296
MK10288V1
Printed in U.S.A. 9/05
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