3-097-356-12(1)
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
DCR-HC27E/HC28E
© 2006 Sony Corporation
About menu items, LCD panel,
viewfinder, and lens
• A menu item that is grayed out is not
available under the current recording or
playback conditions.
Notes on use
Types of cassette you can use in your
camcorder
• You can use mini DV cassettes marked
• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are
manufactured using extremely high-
precision technology, so over 99.99% of
the pixels are operational for effective
use. However, there may be some tiny
black points and/or bright points (white,
red, blue, or green in color) that appear
constantly on the LCD screen and the
viewfinder. These points are normal
results of the manufacturing process and
do not affect the recording in any way.
with
. Your camcorder is not
compatible with the Cassette Memory
Using the camcorder
• Do not hold the camcorder by the
following parts.
Viewfinder
Battery pack
Black point
White, red, blue
or green point
LCD panel
• The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof
or waterproof.
• Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder,
or the lens to direct sunlight for long
periods of time may cause malfunctions.
• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might
cause your camcorder to malfunction.
Take pictures of the sun only in low light
conditions, such as at dusk.
• Before connecting your camcorder to
another device with an i.LINK cable, be
sure to insert the connector plug the
correct way, and not forcibly to avoid
damaging the terminal, or cause a
malfunction of your camcorder.
Continued ,
3
Read this first (Continued)
On recording
About the Carl Zeiss lens
• Before starting to record, test the
recording function to make sure the
picture and sound are recorded without
any problems.
• Compensation for the contents of
recordings cannot be provided, even if
recording or playback is not possible due
to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage
media, etc.
• TV color systems differ depending on the
countries/regions. To view your
recordings on a TV, you need a PAL
system-based TV.
Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl
Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by
Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony
Corporation, and produces superior images.
It adopts the MTF* measurement system for
video cameras and offers a quality typical
of a Carl Zeiss lens.
* MTF stands for Modulation Transfer
Function. The number value indicates the
amount of light from a subject coming into
the lens.
• Television programs, films, video tapes,
and other materials may be copyrighted.
Unauthorized recording of such materials
may be contrary to the copyright laws.
About this manual
• The images of the LCD screen and the
viewfinder used in this manual for
illustration purposes are captured using a
digital still camera, and therefore may
appear different.
• The on-screen displays in each local
language are used for illustrating the
operating procedures. Change the screen
language before using your camcorder if
necessary (p. 14).
• The illustrations used on this manual are
based on the model DCR-HC28E. The
model name is indicated on the bottom of
your camcorder.
• Design and specifications of recording
media and accessories are subject to
change without notice.
4
Table of Contents
Read this first ...........................................................................................2
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording
Continued ,
5
GSetttiengpSta1rte:d Checking supplied items
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FP30 (1)
Make sure that you have following items
supplied with your camcorder.
The number in the parentheses indicates the
number of that item supplied.
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
• To attach the lens cap
Attach the lens cap to the metal fittings of the
grip belt, as illustrated below, using the strap.
8
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM”
2
Slide the POWER switch in the
direction of the arrow to
OFF(CHG) (The default setting).
battery pack (P series/H series)
(p. 62) after attaching it to your
camcorder.
POWER switch
DC IN jack
3
Connect the AC Adaptor to the
DC IN jack on your camcorder.
DC plug
To the wall socket
AC Adaptor
Mains lead
DC IN jack
1
Align the terminals of the battery
pack and your camcorder 1, then
attach the battery pack and click
it into place 2.
With the v mark facing to the
LCD screen
2
1
Continued ,
9
Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
To remove the battery pack
4
Connect the mains lead to the AC
Adaptor and the wall socket.
1 Slide the POWER switch to
OFF(CHG). Hold down the V
BATT(battery) release lever with one
hand.
CHG (charge) lamp
2 Remove the battery in the direction of
the arrow with the other hand.
POWER switch
1
2
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and
charging starts.
5
The CHG (charge) lamp turns off
when the battery is fully charged.
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from
the DC IN jack.
V BATT (battery)
release lever
When storing the battery pack
Fully discharge the battery before storing it
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
DC IN jack holding both the camcorder
and the DC plug.
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery
pack.
To use an outside power source
You can operate your camcorder using the
power from the wall socket by making the
same connections as you do when charging
the battery pack. The battery pack will not
lose its charge in this case.
Battery pack
NP-FP30 (supplied)
NP-FP50
Charging time
115
125
NP-FP71
170
NP-FP90
220
NP-FH50
135
NP-FH70
170
NP-FH100
390
10
On the battery pack
• Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF(CHG).
• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during
correctly displayed under the following
conditions.
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
Battery pack
– The battery pack is not attached correctly.
– The battery pack is damaged.
– The battery pack is worn-out. (For Battery
Info only.)
• The power will not be supplied from the battery
as long as the AC Adaptor is connected to the
DC IN jack of your camcorder, even when the
mains lead is disconnected from the wall socket.
NP-FP30
(supplied)
95
110
135
160
330
395
500
580
155
180
330
395
760
890
45
55
NP-FP50
NP-FP71
NP-FP90
NP-FH50
NP-FH70
NP-FH100
65
80
165
195
250
290
75
On the charging/recording/playback time
• Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C
(77 °F). (10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is
recommended.)
• The recording and playback time will be shorter
when you use your camcorder in low
temperatures.
• The recording and playback time will be shorter
depending on the conditions under which you
use your camcorder.
90
165
195
380
445
• All times measured under the following
conditions:
Top: Recording with LCD screen.
Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the
LCD panel closed.
* Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the
power on/off and zooming.
On the AC Adaptor
• Use the nearby wall socket when using the AC
Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
wall socket immediately if any malfunction
occurs while using your camcorder.
• Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow
space, such as between a wall and furniture.
• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC
Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic
objects. This may cause a malfunction.
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
PRECAUTION
• Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power
(mains) is still supplied to it while connected to
the wall socket via the AC Adaptor.
LCD panel
opened
LCD panel
closed
Battery pack
NP-FP30 (supplied)
NP-FP50
105
150
370
550
170
370
845
135
190
465
705
220
465
1065
NP-FP71
NP-FP90
NP-FH50
NP-FH70
NP-FH100
11
Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your
camcorder firmly
• After you have set the date and time
turn on the power of your camcorder, the
current date and time will be displayed on
the LCD screen for a few seconds.
To record or play back, slide the POWER
switch repeatedly to turn on the respective
lamp.
When using it for the first time, the
POWER switch
Lens cap
3
4
Hold the camcorder correctly.
Ensure a good grip, then fasten
the grip belt.
1
2
Remove the lens cap by pressing
both knobs on the sides of the
cap.
4
1
2
3
Slide the POWER switch
repeatedly in the direction of the
arrow to turn on the respective
lamp.
To turn off the power
1 Slide the POWER switch to
OFF(CHG).
If the POWER
switch is set to
OFF(CHG), slide it
while pressing the
green button.
2 Attach the lens cap.
• At the time of purchase, the power will be set to
turn off automatically if you leave your
camcorder without any operation attempted for
approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power
Lamps that light up
CAMERA: To record on a tape.
PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.
12
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder
The LCD panel
The viewfinder
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the
camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best
angle to record or play (2).
You can view pictures using the viewfinder
to avoid wearing down the battery, or when
the picture seen on the LCD screen is poor.
180 degrees
(max.)
2
Viewfinder
1
90 degrees to the
90 degrees
camcorder
(max.)
Viewfinder lens
adjustment lever
Move it until the picture is
clear.
• If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the
lens side, you can close the LCD panel with the
LCD screen facing out. This is convenient
during playback operations.
of the LCD screen.
• You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight by selecting
(LCD/VF SET) -
• You can adjust the [FADER] and the
[EXPOSURE] setting using the viewfinder
13
Step 5: Using the touch panel
You can play back recorded pictures
the touch panel.
Changing the language setting
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Select the screen language in [
Place your hand on the rear side of
the LCD panel to support it. Then,
touch the buttons displayed on the
screen.
LANGUAGE] on the
(SETUP
Checking the screen indicators
(Display guide)
DISP/BATT INFO
You can easily check the meaning of each
screen.
1
2
Touch
.
–:––:––
60min
PAGE1 PAGE2
Touch the button on the LCD screen.
• If the buttons on the touch panel do not work
correctly, adjust the LCD screen
• Dots in lines may appear on the LCD screen, but
this is not a malfunction. These dots are not
recorded.
SPOT FOCUS
FOCUS
SPOT
DISP
GUIDE
METER
MENU FADER
END
SCH
EXPO–
SURE
Touch [DISP GUIDE].
To hide the screen indicators
Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the
screen indicators (such as time code) on or
off.
Select area for guide.
END
DISP GUIDE
The indicators vary depending on the
settings.
14
3
Touch the area including the
indicator that you want to check.
DISP GUIDE
END
1/2
FOCUS:
MANUAL
PROGRAM AE:
SPOTLIGHT
P EFFECT:
SEPIA
PAGE
PAGE
RET.
The meanings of the indicators in the
area are listed on the screen. If you
cannot find the indicator you want to
check, touch [PAGE r]/[PAGE R] to
toggle.
When you touch [
RET.], the screen
returns to the area selecting display.
To finish the operation
Touch [END].
15
Step 6: Setting the date and time
Set the date and time when using this
camcorder for the first time. If you do not
3
Select [CLOCK SET] with
/
set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET]
screen appears every time you turn on your
camcorder or change the POWER switch
position.
, then touch [EXEC].
CLOCK SET
• If you do not use your camcorder for about 3
months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets
discharged and the date and time settings may
be cleared from the memory. In that case,
charge the rechargeable battery and then set the
Y
M
1
D
H
M
00
:
2007
1
0
OK
4
Set [Y] (year) with
then touch
/
,
.
You can set any year up to the year
2079.
CLOCK SET
Y
M
1
D
H
M
00
:
2007
1
0
POWER switch
Skip to step 4 when you set the clock for
OK
the first time.
5
Set [M] (month), then touch
and repeat for [D] (day), [H] (hour)
and [M] (minute).
1
Touch
t [MENU].
MANUAL SET
PROGRAM AE
EFFECT
AUTO SHTR
P
The clock starts.
• The date and time are not displayed while
recording, but they are automatically recorded
on the tape, and can be displayed during
(During Easy Handycam operation, you can set
only [DATE/TIME])).
EXEC
RET.
2
Select
/
(SETUP MENU) with
, then touch [EXEC].
SETUP MENU
CLOCK SET
LANGUAGE
DEMO MODE
--:--:--
EXEC
RET.
16
Step 7: Inserting a Cassette
You can use mini DV
• The recordable time varies depending on [REC
cassettes only
2
Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
Push the center of the back
of the cassette lightly.
1
Slide and hold the
EJECT lever in the direction of the
arrow and open the lid.
OPEN/
Window
OPEN/EJECT lever
Cassette compartment
The cassette compartment
automatically slides back in.
Lid
• Do not force the cassette
compartment closed by pressing the
portion marked {DO NOT PUSH} while
it is sliding in. It may cause a
malfunction.
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out and opens up.
3
Close the lid.
To eject the cassette
Open the lid following the same procedure
as described in step 1 and remove the
cassette.
17
RecordinEg/PalasybyackRecording/Playback (Easy Handycam)
Remove the lens cap (p. 12).
With this Easy Handycam operation, most of
the camera settings are automatically optimally
adjusted, which frees you from detailed
adjustments. The screen font size increases for
easy viewing.
A
B
D
C
Recording
1
Slide the POWER switch A in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn
on the CAMERA lamp.
If the POWER switch A is set to OFF(CHG),
slide it while pressing the green button.
2
3
Press EASY C.
EASY
appears on the screen D.
Press REC START/STOP B to start recording.*
60min
REC 0:00:00
The indicator (A) changes [STBY] to [REC].
A
To stop recording, press B again.
FN
* Movies are recorded in SP (Standard Play) mode on a cassette.
18
Playback
Slide the POWER switch A in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on
the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the buttons on the screen D as follows.
If the POWER switch is
set to OFF(CHG), slide it
while pressing the green
button.
Touch
start playback.
, then touch
to
A
C
B
A Stop
B Play/Pause toggles as you touch it
C Rewind/Fast forward
x To cancel Easy Handycam operation
Press EASY C again.
disappears from the screen D.
x Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam operation
Touch
setting.
• Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add any effects or settings to the images. Almost all the
settings are returned to the previous situation.
x Unavailable buttons during Easy Handycam
during Easy Handycam operation.] appears if operations not available during Easy Handycam
are attempted.
19
Recording
Lens cap
Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs
on the sides of the cap
POWER switch
REC START/
STOP
1
2
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on
the CAMERA lamp.
If the POWER switch is set to OFF(CHG),
slide it while pressing the green button.
Press REC START/STOP to start recording.
The indicator (A) changes [STBY] to [REC].
A
To stop movie recording
Press REC START/STOP again.
20
Playback
1
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow
repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
2
Start playing back.
Touch
to rewind the tape to the desired point, then touch
to start
playback.
A
C
B
A Stop
B Play/Pause toggles as you touch it
• Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes.
C Rewind/Fast forward
To adjust the volume
Touch
t [PAGE1] t [VOL], then
/
to adjust the volume.
To search for a scene during playback
Touch and hold
/
during playback (Picture Search), or
/
while fast
forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip Scan).
21
Functions used for recording/playback, etc.
Wider range of view: (Wide angle)
1
2
3
Close view: (Telephoto)
5
• The minimum possible distance between
camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide
angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for
telephoto.
4
zoom to a level greater than 20 ×.
6
7
• Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom
lever. If you move your finger off the power
zoom lever, the operation sound of the power
zoom lever may also be recorded.
qa
• [STEADYSHOT] may not reduce image
blurring as desired when the power zoom lever
is set to the T (Telephoto) side.
To record in dark places (NightShot
plus) ................................... 2
Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch 2 to
q;
9
8
ON. (
and [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”]
appear.)
• The NightShot plus function uses infrared light.
Therefore, do not cover the infrared port 3
with your fingers or other objects. Remove the
conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.
when it is hard to focus automatically.
qs
• Do not use these functions in bright places. This
may cause a malfunction.
Recording
To adjust the exposure for backlit
To use zoom.......................... 1
Move the power zoom lever 1 slightly for
a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster
zoom.
subjects (BACK LIGHT).............. 6
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects,
press BACK LIGHT 6 to display .. To
cancel the back light function, press BACK
LIGHT again.
22
To adjust the focus for an off center
subject (SPOT FOCUS) ............. q;
Recording/playback
To check the remaining battery
(Battery Info) ......................... 7
To fix the exposure for the selected
subject (Flexible spot meter)...... q;
Set the POWER switch to OFF(CHG), then
press DISP/BATT INFO 7. The battery
information appears for about 7 seconds.
You can view the battery information for up
to 20 seconds by pressing DISP/BATT
INFO again while the battery information is
displayed.
To record in mirror mode .......... qa
Open the LCD panel qa 90 degrees to the
camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees
to the lens side (2).
Remaining battery (approx.)
BATTERY INFO
BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL
2
0%
50%
100%
1
REC TIME AVAILABLE
LCD SCREEN : 86 min
VIEWFINDER : 99 min
Recording capacity (approx.)
• A mirror-image of the subject appears on the
LCD screen, but the picture will be normal
when recorded.
To turn off the operation confirmation
beep (BEEP) .......................... q;
To use a tripod....................... qs
To initialize the settings
(RESET)................................ 8
Press RESET 8 to initialize all the
settings, including the setting of the date
and time.
Attach the tripod (optional: the length of the
screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.))
to the tripod receptacle qs using a tripod
screw.
To use a Shoulder Belt ............. 5
Attach the Shoulder Belt (optional) to its
designated hook 5.
Other part names and functions
D Internal stereo microphone
I Speaker
Playback
Playback sound comes out from the
speaker.
To play back the images with added
special effects (Picture effect) .... q;
• For how to adjust the volume, see page 21.
23
Indicators displayed during recording/playback
Recording
Viewing
1
2
7
4
5
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
6
A Remaining battery (approx.)
G Tape transport indicator
C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or
[REC] (recording))
D Recording: Tape counter (hour:
minute: second)
Playback: Time code (hour: minute:
second: frame)
E Recording capacity of the tape (approx.)
(43)
Data code during recording
The date/time during recording and the
camera setting data will be recorded
automatically. They do not appear on the
screen during recording, but you can check
them as [DATA CODE] during playback
(p. 35).
24
( ) is a reference page.
The indicators during recording will not be recorded.
Bottom
Indicators when you made
changes
Indicator
Meaning
check the function of each indicator that
appears on the LCD screen.
• Some of the indicators may not appear when
you use [DISP GUIDE].
9
.
Manual focus (32)
PROGRAM AE (38)
Upper left
Upper right
60min
STBY
0:00:00
60min
n
+
FN
/
E D I T
+
/
E D I T
Bottom
Center
Upper left
Indicator
Meaning
Upper right
Indicator
Meaning
DV input (47)
Center
Indicator
Meaning
Warning (58)
% Z
25
Searching for the starting point
Make sure that the CAMERA lamp
Searching manually
(EDIT SEARCH)
You can search for the start point to start
the next recording while viewing the
pictures on the screen. The sound is not
played back during the search.
Searching for the last scene of
the most recent recording (END
SEARCH)
[END SCH] (END SEARCH) will not
work once you eject the cassette after you
have recorded on the tape.
1
2
3
4
Touch
[MENU].
t [PAGE1] t
Touch
t [PAGE1], then touch
[END SCH].
Select
/
(CAMERA SET) with
, then touch [EXEC].
60min
PAGE1 PAGE2
0:00:00
Select [EDITSEARCH] with
, then touch [EXEC].
/
SPOT FOCUS
FOCUS
SPOT
METER
DISP
GUIDE
MENU FADER
END
SCH
EXPO–
SURE
Touch here again to cancel the operation.
Select [ON] with
then touch [EXEC] t
/
,
.
The last scene of the most recent
recording is played back for about 5
seconds, and the camcorder enters the
standby mode at the point where the last
recording has finished.
60min
STBY
0:00:00
EDIT
FN
• [END SCH] will not work correctly when there
is a blank section between recorded sections on
the tape.
• This operation is also available when the
POWER switch is set to PLAY/EDIT.
5
Touch and hold
backward)/
(to go
(to go forward)
and release it at the point where
you want the recording to start.
26
Reviewing the most recently
recorded scenes (Rec review)
You can view a few seconds of the scene
recorded just before you stopped the tape.
1
2
3
4
Touch
[MENU].
t [PAGE1] t
Select
/
(CAMERA SET) with
, then touch [EXEC].
Select [EDITSEARCH] with
, then touch [EXEC].
/
Select [ON] with
then touch [EXEC] t
/
,
.
60min
STBY
0:00:00
EDIT
FN
5
Touch
.
The last few seconds of the most
recently recorded scene are played back.
Then, your camcorder is set to the
standby.
27
Playing the picture on a TV
You can connect your camcorder to the input jack of a TV or a VCR using the A/V connecting
cable (1) or the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2). Connect your camcorder to the
instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
1
A/V OUT
(Yellow)
(White)
(Red)
A/V OUT jack
VCRs or TVs
: Signal flow
2
A A/V connecting cable (supplied)
When your TV is monaural (Only one
audio input jack)
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V
connecting cable to the video input jack and
connect the white (left channel) or the red
(right channel) plug to the audio input jack
of your TV or VCR.
B A/V connecting cable with S
VIDEO (optional)
When connecting to another device via the S
VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting
cable with an S VIDEO cable, pictures can be
reproduced more faithfully than with the
supplied A/V cable connection.
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right
audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO
channel) of an A/V connecting cable. In this
case, the yellow (standard video) plug
connection is not necessary. S VIDEO
connection only will not output audio.
If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor
(EUROCONNECTOR)
You need the 21-pin adaptor (optional) to
connect your camcorder to a TV for
viewing recorded images. This adaptor is
designed for output use only.
• You can display the time code on the TV screen
by setting [DISP OUT] to [V-OUT/LCD]
When connecting your camcorder to a
TV through a VCR
TV/VCR
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN
input on the VCR. Set the input selector on
the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2,
etc.), if the VCR has an input selector.
28
29
Using the Menu
Using the menu items
Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page.
1
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow
repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp.
CAMERA lamp: settings for recording on a tape
PLAY/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing
2
Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
Unavailable items will be grayed out.
x To use the operation buttons on PAGE1/PAGE2/PAGE3
For details of the button items, see page 32.
1 Touch
.
2 Touch the desired page.
3 Touch the desired button.
4 Select the desired setting, then touch
• With some settings, you do not have to touch
t
(close).
.
x To use menu items
For details of the items, see page 38.
1
2
3
4
MANUAL SET
EFFECT
TAPE SET
REC MODE
REMAIN
TAPE SET
REC MODE
REMAIN
TAPE SET
REC MODE
REMAIN
P
SP
LP
LP
EXEC
RET.
EXEC
RET.
EXEC
RET.
EXEC
RET.
1 Touch
t [MENU] on [PAGE1].
The menu index screen appears.
2 Select the desired menu.
Touch
/
to select the item, then touch [EXEC]. (The process in step 3 and 4
is the same as that in step 2.)
3 Select the desired item.
4 Customize the item.
After finishing the settings, touch
(close) to hide the menu screen.
Each touch of [
RET.] takes you to the previous screen.
30
x To use menu items during Easy Handycam operation
60min
STBY 0:00:00
FN
1 Touch
.
2 Select the desired menu.
Touch [MENU] then select the desired menu.
3 Change your item setting.
After finishing the settings, touch
(close) to hide the menu screen.
Each touch of [
RET.] takes you to the previous screen.
• Cancel Easy Handycam operation to use menu items normally.
31
Operation button items
Available operation buttons vary depending
on the position of the lamp and the display
(PAGE).
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
The available functions during Easy
Handycam operation are marked with “*”.
1 Touch [MANUAL].
9 appears.
2 Touch
(focusing on distant subjects) to
sharpen the focus. appears when the
(focusing on close subjects)/
button items.
focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and
appears when the focus cannot be adjusted
farther away.
When the CAMERA lamp lights
up
To adjust the focus automatically, touch
[
AUTO] in step 1.
• It is easier to focus on the subject by moving the
power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to
adjust the focus, then towards W (wide angle) to
adjust the zoom for recording. When you want
to record a subject at close range, move the
power zoom lever to W (wide angle), then
adjust the focus.
• The minimum possible distance between
camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide
angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for
telephoto.
[PAGE1]
SPOT FOCUS
You can select and adjust the focal point to
aim it at a subject not located in the center
of the screen.
60min
SPOT FOCUS
STBY
0:00:00
Touch here
• The setting returns to [
AUTO] when you
AUTO
OK
turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
Touch the point where you want to focus on
in the frame.
9 appears.
SPOT METER (Flexible spot
meter)
You can adjust and fix the exposure to the
subject, so that it is recorded in suitable
brightness even when there is strong
contrast between the subject and the
background, such as subjects in the
spotlight on stage.
To adjust the focus automatically, touch
[
[
AUTO] or set [FOCUS] to
AUTO].
• If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is
automatically set to [MANUAL].
• The setting returns to [
AUTO] when you
turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
60min
SPOT METER
STBY
0:00:00
Touch here
FOCUS
You can adjust the focus manually. You can
select this function also when you want to
focus on a certain subject intentionally.
AUTO
OK
Touch the point where you want to fix and
adjust the exposure on the screen.
appears.
32
To return the setting to automatic exposure,
touch [ AUTO] or set [EXPOSURE] to
AUTO].
MOSC. FADER
[
• If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is
automatically set to [MANUAL].
MONOTONE
• The setting returns to [
AUTO] when you
When fading in, the picture gradually
changes from black and white to color.
When fading out, it gradually changes from
color to black and white.
turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
DISP GUIDE (Display Guide)*
Using the viewfinder
You can adjust [EXPOSURE] and
[FADER] while using the viewfinder by
having the LCD panel rotated 180 degrees
and closed with the screen facing out.
MENU*
1 Make sure that the CAMERA lamp lights
up.
FADER
2 Close the LCD panel with the screen
facing out.
appears.
You can add the following effects to
currently recording pictures.
3 Touch
4 Touch
The LCD screen is turned off.
.
1 Select the desired effect in standby mode
(to fade in) or recording mode (to fade out),
.
then touch
t
.
5 Touch the LCD screen while checking the
display in the viewfinder.
[EXPOSURE], etc. are displayed.
2 Press REC START/STOP.
The fader indicator stops flashing and
disappears when the fade is complete.
6 Touch the button you want to set.
[EXPOSURE]: Adjust with
and touch
To cancel [FADER] before starting the
/
,
operation, touch [
OFF] in step 1.
.
[FADER]: Touch it repeatedly to select a
desired effect.
• If you press REC START/STOP once, the
setting is canceled.
: The LCD screen lights up.
To hide the buttons, touch
.
Fading out
Fading in
END SCH (END SEARCH)
WHITE
BLACK
Continued ,
33
Operation button items (Continued)
INDOOR (n)
EXPOSURE
The white balance is adjusted to be
appropriate for the following recording
conditions:
You can fix the brightness of a picture
manually. Adjust the brightness when the
subject is much brighter or darker than the
background.
– Indoors
– At party scenes or studios where the lighting
conditions change quickly
– Under video lamps in a studio, or under
sodium lamps or incandescent-like color
lamps
60min
AUTO
STBY
0:00:00
OK
MANU–
AL
1
2
ONE PUSH (
)
EXPOSURE
The white balance will be adjusted
according to the ambient light.
1 Touch [ONE PUSH].
1 Touch [MANUAL].
2 Frame a white object such as a piece of
paper, to fill the screen under the same
lighting conditions as you will shoot
the subject.
appears.
2 Adjust the exposure by touching
/
.
To return the setting to automatic exposure,
touch [ AUTO].
• You can adjust [EXPOSURE] and [FADER]
while using the viewfinder by having the LCD
panel rotated 180 degrees and closed with the
3 Touch
.
flashes quickly. When the white
balance has been adjusted and stored in
the memory, the indicator stops
flashing.
•Do not shake your camcorder while
is flashing quickly.
• The setting returns to [
AUTO] when you
turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
•
flashes slowly if white balance
could not be set.
•If
keeps flashing even after you
[PAGE2]
have touched
to [ AUTO].
, set [WHT BAL]
WHT BAL (White balance)
You can adjust the color balance to the
brightness of the recording environment.
• If you have changed the battery pack while [
AUTO] was selected, or taken your camcorder
outdoors after inside use with the [EXPOSURE]
set (or vice versa), select [
AUTO] and aim
B
AUTO
your camcorder at a nearby white object for
about 10 seconds for better color balance
adjustment.
The white balance is adjusted
automatically.
• Redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure if you change
the [PROGRAM AE] settings, or bring your
camcorder outdoors from inside the house, or
vice versa.
OUTDOOR (
)
The white balance is adjusted to be
appropriate for the following recording
conditions:
• Set [WHT BAL] to [
AUTO] or [ONE
PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent
lamps.
– Outdoors
– Night views, neon signs and fireworks
– Sunrise or sunset
• The setting returns to [
AUTO] when you
turn the power off for more than 12 hours.
– Under daylight fluorescent lamps
34
[PAGE2]
LCD BRT (LCD bright)
DATA CODE*
During playback, displays information
(data code) recorded automatically at the
time of recording.
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen. The recorded picture will not be
affected by this operation.
Adjust the brightness with
/
.
B
OFF
When the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights
up
Data code is not displayed.
DATE/TIME
Displays the date and time.
You can use the video operation buttons
(
/
/
/
) on every PAGE.
CAM DATA (below)
Displays camera setting data.
[PAGE1]
MENU*
60min
0:00:00:00
1
2
3
AUTO
100 AWB
F1. 8
9dB
FN
VOL* (Volume)
6
5
4
ASteadyShot off
BExposure
CWhite balance
DGain
END SCH (END SEARCH)
EShutter speed
FAperture value
DISP GUIDE (Display Guide)*
• In the [DATE/TIME] data display, the date and
time are displayed in the same area. If you
record a picture without setting the clock, [-- -- -
---] and [--:--:--] will appear.
• During Easy Handycam operation, you can set
[DATE/TIME] only.
LCD BRT (LCD bright)
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen. The recorded picture will not be
affected by this operation.
Adjust the brightness with
/
.
Continued ,
35
Operation button items (Continued)
[PAGE3]
A DUB CTRL (Audio dubbing)
V SPD PLAY
(Various speed playback)
You can play back in various modes while
viewing movies.
REC CTRL (Recording control)
(DCR-HC28E)
1 Touch the following buttons during
playback.
To
Touch
change the
playback
direction*
(frame)
play back
[ySLOW]
slowly**
To reverse direction:
(frame) t
[ySLOW]
play back 2
times faster
(double speed)
(double speed)
To reverse direction:
(frame) t
(double speed)
play back frame
by frame
(frame) during
playback pause.
To reverse direction:
(frame) during
frame playback.
* Horizontal lines may appear at the top,
bottom, or in the center of the screen. This
is not a malfunction.
**Pictures output from the DV Interface
(i.LINK) cannot be played back smoothly in
slow mode.
2 Touch [
To return to the normal playback mode,
touch (Play/Pause) twice (once from
RET.] t
.
frame playback).
• You will not hear the recorded sound. You may
see mosaic-like images of the previously played
picture.
36
Menu items
• Available menu items (z) vary depending on which lamp is lit.
CAMERA
PLAY/EDIT
Easy Handycam
MANUAL SET menu (p. 38)
PROGRAM AE
P EFFECT
z
z
z
–
z
–
AUTO
OFF
ON
AUTO SHTR
CAMERA SET menu (p. 39)
D ZOOM
z
z
z
z
z
–
–
–
–
–
OFF
4:3
ON
WIDE SEL
STEADYSHOT
EDITSEARCH
N.S.LIGHT
OFF
ON
PLAYER SET (DCR-HC27E)/
VCR SET (DCR-HC28E) menu (p. 41)
AUDIO MIX
–
z
–
LCD B.L.
LCD COLOR
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
BRT NORMAL
–
VF B.L.
WIDE DISP
BRT NORMAL
–
REC MODE (DCR-HC27E)
REC MODE (DCR-HC28E)
AUDIO MODE
z
z
z
z
–
z
–
SP
SP
12BIT
AUTO
REMAIN
z
SETUP MENU menu (p. 43)
CLOCK SET
z
z
z
z
z
–
z
z
LANGUAGE
DEMO MODE
ON
OTHERS menu (p. 44)
WORLD TIME
BEEP
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
z
–*
z
A.SHUT OFF
DISP OUT
5min
LCD
* The value set before Easy Handycam operation will be retained during Easy Handycam operation.
37
MANUAL SET menu
– PROGRAM AE/P EFFECT, etc.
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
menu items.
SUNSETMOON**(
)
Select to maintain the atmosphere of
situations such as sunsets, general night
views or fireworks.
PROGRAM AE
You can record pictures effectively in
various situations with the PROGRAM AE
function.
BAUTO
Select to automatically record pictures
effectively without the [PROGRAM AE]
function.
LANDSCAPE**(
)
Select to shoot distant subjects clearly.
This setting also prevents your camcorder
from focusing on glass or metal mesh in
windows that comes in between the
camcorder and the subject.
SPOTLIGHT*(
)
Select to prevent people’s faces from
appearing excessively white when subjects
are lit by strong light.
• Items with one asterisk (*) can be adjusted
to focus on subjects only a short distance
away. Items with two asterisks (**) can be
adjusted to focus on subjects farther away.
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) (
)
Select to bring out the subject such as
people or flowers while creating a soft
background.
• The setting returns to [AUTO] when you turn
the power off for more than 12 hours.
P EFFECT (Picture effect)
You can add special effects to a picture
during recording or playback.
appears.
SPORTS* (Sports lesson) (
)
Select to minimize shake when shooting
fast moving subjects.
BOFF
Does not use [P EFFECT] setting.
NEG.ART
The color and brightness are reversed.
BEACH&SKI*(
)
Select to prevent people’s faces from
appearing dark in strong light or reflected
light, such as at a beach in midsummer or
on a ski slope.
38
CAMERA SET
menu
– D ZOOM/WIDE SEL/STEADYSHOT, etc.
SEPIA
Pictures appear in sepia.
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
B&W
Pictures appear in black and white.
See page 30 for details on selecting
menu items.
SOLARIZE
Pictures appear as an illustration with
strong contrast.
D ZOOM (Digital zoom)
You can select the maximum zoom level in
case you want to zoom to a level greater
than 20 × (the default setting) while
recording on a tape. Note that the image
quality decreases when you are using the
digital zoom.
PASTEL*
Pictures appear as a pale pastel drawing.
MOSAIC*
Pictures appear mosaic-patterned.
The right side of the bar shows the digital
zooming factor. The zooming zone
appears when you select the zooming
level.
BOFF
Up to 20 × zoom is performed optically.
* Not available during playback.
• You can record pictures edited with special
effects on another VCR/DVD device, etc.
• You cannot output playback pictures edited with
picture effects via the DV Interface (i.LINK).
40 ×
Up to 20 × zoom is performed optically,
and after that, up to 40 × zoom is
performed digitally.
800 ×
• For DCR-HC28E:
You cannot add effects to externally input
pictures.
Up to 20 × zoom is performed optically,
and after that, up to 800 × zoom is
performed digitally.
AUTO SHTR (Auto shutter)
Automatically activates the electronic
shutter to adjust the shutter speed when
recording in bright conditions if you set it to
[ON] (the default setting).
Continued ,
39
CAMERA SET menu (Continued)
WIDE SEL (Wide select)
EDITSEARCH
You can record a picture in a ratio suitable
for the screen on which it will be displayed.
Refer also to the operating instructions
supplied with your TV for details.
BOFF
Does not display
LCD screen.
or
on the
ON
Displays
B4:3
and
on the LCD
Standard setting (to record pictures to be
played back on a 4:3 TV).
screen, and enables the EDIT SEARCH
16:9 WIDE (
Records pictures to be played back on a
16:9 wide TV in full screen mode.
)
N.S.LIGHT (NightShot Light)
When using the NightShot plus (p. 22)
function to record, you can record clearer
pictures by setting [N.S.LIGHT], which
emits infrared light (invisible), to [ON] (the
default setting).
When viewed on the LCD screen/viewfinder with
[16:9 WIDE] selected.
When viewed on a 16:9 wide
screen TV*
• Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers
• Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is
attached.
When viewed on a standard
TV**
• The maximum shooting distance using
[N.S.LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet). If you
record subjects in dark places, such as night
scenes or in moonlight, set [N.S.LIGHT] to
[OFF]. You can make the image color deeper
this way.
* Picture appears in full screen mode when the
wide-screen TV switches to full mode.
**Played in 4:3 mode. When you play a picture in
the wide mode, it appears as you have seen on
the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
STEADYSHOT
You can compensate for camera shake (the
default setting is [ON]). Set
[STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when
using a tripod (optional) or the conversion
lens (optional), then the image becomes
natural.
40
PLAYER SET/
LCD/VF SET menu
– LCD B.L./LCD COLOR/VF B.L., etc
VCR SET menu
– AUDIO MIX
The default settings are marked with B.
See page 30 for details on selecting
menu items.
The PLAYER SET menu is for the DCR-
HC27E, and the VCR SET menu is for the
DCR-HC28E.
LCD B.L. (LCD back light)
menu items.
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen’s backlight. The recorded picture
will not be affected by this operation.
AUDIO MIX
BBRT NORMAL
Standard brightness.
BRIGHT
Brightens the LCD screen.
• When you connect your camcorder to outside
power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically
selected for the setting.
• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is
slightly reduced during recording.
LCD COLOR
You can adjust the color on the LCD screen
with
/
. The recorded picture
will not be affected by this operation.
Low intensity High intensity
Continued ,
41
LCD/VF SET menu (Continued)
TAPE SET menu
– REC MODE/AUDIO MODE/REMAIN
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
See page 30 for details on selecting
menu items.
VF B.L. (Viewfinder back light)
You can adjust the brightness of the
viewfinder. The recorded picture will not be
affected by this operation.
BBRT NORMAL
Standard brightness.
REC MODE (Recording mode)
BSP (SP)
BRIGHT
Records in the SP (Standard Play) mode on
a cassette.
Brightens the viewfinder screen.
• When you connect your camcorder to outside
power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically
selected for the setting.
• When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is
slightly reduced during recording.
LP (LP)
Increases the recording time to 1.5 times
the SP mode (Long Play).
• If you record in the LP mode, a mosaic-like
noise may appear or sound may be interrupted
when you play back the tape on other
camcorders or VCRs.
• When you mix recordings in the SP mode and in
the LP mode on one tape, the playback picture
may be distorted or the time code may not be
written properly between the scenes.
WIDE DISP (Wide display)
You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio
picture appears in the viewfinder and the
LCD screen by setting [WIDE SEL] to
[16:9 WIDE]. The recorded picture will not
be affected by this operation.
AUDIO MODE
BLETTER BOX
Normal setting (standard type of display)
B12BIT
SQUEEZE
Records in the 12-bit mode (2 stereo
sounds).
Expands the picture vertically if black
bands at the top and bottom in 16:9 aspect
ratio are undesirable.
16BIT (
)
Records in the 16-bit mode (1 stereo sound
with high quality).
42
SETUP MENU
menu
– CLOCK SET/LANGUAGE, etc.
REMAIN
See page 30 for details on selecting
menu items.
BAUTO
Displays the remaining tape indicator for
about 8 seconds in situations such as those
described below.
CLOCK SET
• When you set the POWER switch to PLAY/
EDIT or CAMERA with a cassette inserted.
• When you touch
(Play/Pause).
LANGUAGE
ON
Always displays the remaining tape
indicator.
You can select the language to be used on
the LCD screen.
• Your camcorder offers [ENG[SIMP]]
(simplified English) for when you cannot find
your native tongue among the options.
DEMO MODE
The default setting is [ON], allowing you to
view the demonstration in about 10
minutes, after you have removed a cassette
from your camcorder, and slide the
POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the
CAMERA lamp.
• The demonstration will be suspended in
situations such as those described below.
– When you touch the screen during the
demonstration. (The demonstration starts
again after about 10 minutes.)
– When a cassette is inserted.
– When the POWER switch is set to other than
CAMERA.
43
OTHERS menu
– WORLD TIME/BEEP, etc.
The default settings are marked with B.
menu items.
DISP OUT (Display output)
BLCD
Shows displays such as the time code on
the LCD screen and in the viewfinder.
WORLD TIME
V-OUT/LCD
When using your camcorder abroad, you
can set the time difference by touching
Shows displays such as the time code on
the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the
viewfinder.
/
, the clock will be adjusted in
accordance with the time difference.
If you set the time difference to 0, the clock
returns to the originally set time.
BEEP
BON
A melody sounds when you start/stop
recording, or operate the touch panel.
OFF
Cancels the melody.
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)
B5min
The camcorder is automatically turned off
when you do not operate your camcorder
for more than approximately 5 minutes.
NEVER
The camcorder is not automatically turned
off.
• When you connect your camcorder to a wall
socket, [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to
[NEVER].
44
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc.
You can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (VCR/
DVD device, etc.).
You can connect your camcorder to a VCR/DVD device, etc., using the A/V connecting cable
(1), the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), or the i.LINK cable (3).
Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation
(p. 9). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
1
A/V OUT
AUDIO/
VIDEO jacks
A/V OUT jack
(Yellow)
(White)
(Red)
VCR/DVD
device
To i.LINK jack
2
To DV or DV OUT Interface
(i.LINK)
DV
3
: Signal flow
A A/V connecting cable (supplied)
C i.LINK cable (optional)
Use an i.LINK cable to connect your
camcorder to another device equipped with an
i.LINK jack. The video and audio signals are
transmitted digitally, producing high quality
pictures and sound. Note that you cannot
output picture and sound separately.
B A/V connecting cable with S
VIDEO (optional)
When connecting to another device via the S
VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting
cable with an S VIDEO cable, pictures can be
reproduced more faithfully than with the
supplied A/V cable connection. Connect the
white and red plugs (left/right audio) and S
VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of an A/V
connecting cable. In this case, the yellow
(standard video) plug connection is not
necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not
output audio.
• When you are connecting your camcorder to a
monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the
A/V connecting cable to the video jack, and the
red (right channel) or the white (left channel)
plug to the audio jack on the VCR/TV.
• When you connect a device via an A/V
connecting cable, set [DISP OUT] to [LCD] (the
Continued ,
45
Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc. (Continued)
• To record the date/time and camera settings data
when connected by the A/V connecting cable,
• The following cannot be output via the DV
Interface (i.LINK):
– Indicators
– Pictures edited using [P EFFECT] (p. 38)
• When connected using an i.LINK cable, the
recorded picture becomes rough when a picture
is paused on your camcorder while recording to
a VCR.
• When connected using an i.LINK cable, data
code (date/time/camera settings data) may not
be displayed or recorded depending on the
device or application.
1
2
Prepare your camcorder for
playback.
Insert the recorded cassette.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
Prepare your VCR/DVD device for
recording.
When dubbing to the VCR, insert a
cassette for recording.
When dubbing to the DVD recorder,
insert a DVD for recording.
If your recording device has an input
selector, set it to the appropriate input
(such as video input1, video input2).
3
4
Connect your VCR/DVD device to
your camcorder as a recording
device.
Connect your camcorder to the input
jacks of a VCR or a DVD device.
Start playback on the camcorder,
and recording on the VCR/DVD
device.
Refer to the operating instructions
supplied with your recording device for
details.
5
When dubbing is complete, stop
your camcorder and the VCR/DVD
device.
46
Recording pictures from a VCR, etc. (DCR-
HC28E)
Using an i.LINK cable (optional), you can record pictures from a VCR, etc., on a tape.
Be sure to insert a cassette for recording in your camcorder beforehand.
You can connect your camcorder to a VCR etc. or an i.LINK-compatible device using the
i.LINK cable (optional).
Connect your camcorder to the wall socket using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation
(p. 9). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
• You cannot record pictures on your camcorder from a VCR etc. that does not have an
i.LINK jack.
• You cannot input picture and sound separately.
• Your camcorder can only record from a PAL source. For example, French system video/broadcasts
To i.LINK jack
AV device with
i.LINK output
jack
To DV Interface (i.LINK)
DV
i.LINK cable (optional)
: Signal flow
1
2
Connect your VCR to your
camcorder with an i.LINK cable.
3
4
Slide the POWER switch
repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/
EDIT lamp.
• The
indicator appears when you
connect your camcorder and other devices
via an i.LINK cable. (This indicator may
also appear on the connected device.)
Set your camcorder to recording
pause mode.
Touch
t [PAGE3] t [REC
Insert a cassette into the VCR.
CTRL] t [REC PAUSE].
Continued ,
47
Recording pictures from a VCR,
etc. (Continued)
Dubbing sound to a
recorded tape
You can add sound to a tape already
erasing the original sound.
5
Start playing the cassette on the
VCR.
Internal stereo
microphone
The picture played on the connected
device appears on the LCD screen of
your camcorder.
6
7
8
Touch [REC START] at the point
you want to start recording.
Stop recording.
Touch
(Stop) or [REC PAUSE].
You can record audio by using the internal
stereo microphone.
• You cannot record additional audio:
– When the tape has been recorded in the 16-bit
Touch [
RET.] t
.
– When the tape has been recorded in the LP
mode.
– When your camcorder is connected via an
i.LINK cable.
– When the tape has been recorded in 4CH MIC
mode.
– On blank sections of the tape.
– When the tape has been recorded in a TV
color system other than that of your
– When the write-protect tab of the cassette is
set to SAVE (p. 62).
– On sections recorded in HDV format.
• When you add sound, the picture will not be
output from the A/V OUT jack. Check the
picture on the LCD screen or the viewfinder.
48
Recording sound
6
Touch [
RET.] t
.
Insert a recorded cassette into your
camcorder beforehand.
• You can only record additional audio over a
tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound
may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape
recorded on other camcorders (including other
DCR-HC27E/HC28E camcorders).
1
2
Slide the POWER switch
repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/
EDIT lamp.
To check the recorded sound
1 Play back the tape on which you have
Touch
(Play/Pause) to play
back the tape, then touch it again
at the point where you want to
start recording the sound.
2 Touch
t [PAGE1] t [MENU].
3 Select
HC27E, or
(PLAYER SET) for the DCR-
(VCR SET) for the DCR-
HC28E, then touch
/
to select
[AUDIO MIX], then touch [EXEC].
3
Touch
t [PAGE3] t [A
VCR SET
AUDIO MIX
ST1
ST2
DUB CTRL] t [AUDIO DUB].
X appears.
60min
DUB CTRL
0:00:00:00
RET.
EXEC
RET.
A
4 Touch
/
to adjust the balance
of the original sound (ST1) and the new
sound (ST2), then touch [EXEC].
AUDIO
DUB
• The original sound (ST1) is output at the default
setting.
• Audio balance adjustment returns to the default
setting after 12 hours of turning the power off.
4
5
Touch
(Play) and start
playing back the audio you want
to record at the same time.
appears while recording the new
sound in stereo 2 (ST2) during the
playback of the tape.
Touch
to stop recording.
(Stop) when you want
To dub on other scenes, repeat step 2 to
select scenes, then touch [AUDIO
DUB].
49
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
If you run into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the
problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer.
Overall operations/Easy Handycam
The power does not turn on.
The camcorder does not operate even when the power is set to on.
• Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket or remove the battery pack, then reconnect
it after about 1 minute.
all settings are reset.)
Buttons do not work.
Settings change during Easy Handycam operation.
• During Easy Handycam operation, the settings of the functions that are not displayed on the
screen return to their defaults. Previously made settings are restored when you cancel the
[DEMO MODE] does not start.
The camcorder gets warm.
• The camcorder may get warmer while you use it. This is not a malfunction.
Batteries/Power sources
The power abruptly turns off.
• When approximately 5 minutes have elapsed while you do not operate your camcorder, the
camcorder is automatically turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the setting of [A.SHUT OFF]
The CHG (charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being charged.
Continued ,
51
Troubleshooting (Continued)
The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged.
the AC Adaptor from the wall socket and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be
worn-out.
The power turns off frequently although the remaining battery time indicator
indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate.
• A problem has occurred in the remaining battery time indicator, or the battery pack has not
The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time.
• Ambient temperature is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough.
This is not a malfunction.
• Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, the battery may be worn-out. Replace
• The indicated time may not be correct in certain circumstances. For example, when you open
or close the LCD panel, it takes about 1 minute to display the correct remaining battery time.
The battery pack discharges too quickly.
• Ambient temperature is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough.
This is not a malfunction.
• Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, the battery may be worn-out. Replace
A problem occurs when the camcorder is connected to the AC Adaptor.
• Turn off the power, and disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall socket. Then, connect it
again.
LCD screen/viewfinder
A rippling effect appears on the LCD screen when you touch it.
• This is not a malfunction. Do not press hard on the LCD screen.
An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or viewfinder.
cancel [DEMO MODE].
An unknown indicator appears on the screen.
52
The picture remains on the LCD screen.
• This occurs if you disconnect the DC plug from your camcorder or remove the battery pack
without turning off the power first. This is not a malfunction.
The buttons do not appear on the touch panel.
• Touch the LCD screen lightly.
The buttons on the touch panel do not work correctly or do not work at all.
The picture in the viewfinder is not clear.
The picture in the viewfinder has disappeared.
• Close the LCD panel. The picture is not displayed in the viewfinder when the LCD panel is
Dots in lines appear on the LCD screen.
• This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded.
Cassette tapes
The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment.
The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a
cassette with Cassette Memory.
• This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory, so the indicator does not appear.
The remaining tape indicator is not displayed.
• Set [
The cassette is noisier during rewinding or fast-forwarding.
• When using the AC Adaptor, rewind/fast forward speed increases (compared with battery
operation) and therefore increases noise. This is not a malfunction.
Continued ,
53
Troubleshooting (Continued)
Recording
The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP.
• The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette.
• The tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation. Remove the cassette and leave
You cannot record a smooth transition on a tape from the last recorded scene
to the next.
• Do not remove the cassette. (The picture will be recorded continuously without a break even
when you turn the power off.)
• Do not record pictures in SP mode and LP mode on the same tape.
• Avoid stopping then recording a movie in the LP mode.
[END SCH] does not work.
• There is nothing recorded on the cassette.
[END SCH] does not work correctly.
• There is a blank section between recorded sections of the tape. This is not a malfunction.
Adjusting the image during recording
Refer also to “Menu” (p. 56).
The auto focus does not function.
• Set [FOCUS] to [
[STEADYSHOT] does not function.
• Set [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 40).
The BACK LIGHT function does not function.
• In the following settings, the BACK LIGHT function is canceled.
– [MANUAL] of [EXPOSURE]
– [SPOT METER]
54
A vertical band appears when recording candlelight or electric light in the dark.
• This occurs when the contrast between the subject and the background is too high. This is not
a malfunction.
A vertical band appears when recording a bright subject.
• This phenomenon is called the smear effect. This is not a malfunction.
The color of the picture is not correctly displayed.
The screen picture is bright, and the subject does not appear on the screen.
The picture appears too bright, or flickering or changes in color occurs.
• These anomalies may occur when recording pictures under the discharge tube, such as a
fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury lamp, with [PORTRAIT] or [SPORTS]. This is
Black bands appear when you record a TV screen or computer screen.
Playback
You cannot play back tape.
• Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
Horizontal lines appear on the picture. The displayed pictures are not clear or
do not appear.
No sound or only a low sound is heard.
• Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST2] (additional sound) side until the sound is heard
• If you are using an S VIDEO plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V connecting
Continued ,
55
Troubleshooting (Continued)
The sound breaks off.
“---” is displayed on the screen.
• The tape you are playing was recorded without setting the date and time.
• A blank section on the tape is being played.
• The data code on a tape with a scratch or noise cannot be read.
Noises appear and
is displayed on the screen.
• The tape was recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder (PAL). This is
is displayed on the screen.
• The tape you are playing was recorded on another device with a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC
REC). Your camcorder is not compatible with 4ch microphone recording.
Menu
Menu items are grayed out.
• You cannot select grayed items in the current recording/playback situation.
You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS].
• You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS] together with [PROGRAM AE].
You cannot use [SPOT METER].
• You cannot use [SPOT METER] together with NightShot plus.
• If you set [PROGRAM AE], [SPOT METER] is automatically set to [
AUTO].
You cannot use [EXPOSURE].
• You cannot use [EXPOSURE] together with NightShot plus.
• If you set [PROGRAM AE], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [
AUTO].
You cannot use [WHT BAL].
• You cannot use [WHT BAL] together with NightShot plus.
You cannot use [PROGRAM AE].
• You cannot use [PROGRAM AE] together with NightShot plus.
56
Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices
Time code and other information appear on the display of the connected
device.
You cannot dub correctly using the A/V connecting cable.
• The A/V connecting cable is not connected properly. Make sure that the A/V connecting
cable is connected to the input jack of another device for dubbing a picture from your
New sound added to a recorded tape is not heard.
• Adjust [AUDIO MIX] from the [ST1] (original sound) side until the sound is heard
Pictures from connected devices are not displayed correctly.
Connecting to a computer
The computer does not recognize your camcorder.
• Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, then connect it again securely.
• Disconnect the cable from the computer and camcorder, restart the computer, then connect
them again correctly.
You cannot view the video your camcorder is seeing on the computer.
• Disconnect the cable from the computer, turn on the camcorder, then connect it again.
You cannot view the video recorded on a tape on the computer.
• Disconnect the cable from the computer, then connect it again.
57
Warning indicators and messages
Self-diagnosis display/Warning
indicators
E (Battery level warning)
• The battery pack is nearly used up.
• Depending on the operating,
environment, or battery conditions, E
may flash, even if there are
approximately 5 to 10 minutes
remaining.
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in
the viewfinder, check the following.
Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If
the problem persists even after you have
tried a couple of times, contact your Sony
dealer or local authorized Sony service
facility.
% (Moisture condensation warning)*
• Eject the cassette, remove the power
source, and then leave it for about 1
C:(or E:) ss:ss (Self-diagnosis
display)
C:04:ss
• The battery pack is not an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. Use an
Q (Warning indicators pertaining to
the tape)
Slow flashing:
• There is less than 5 minutes remaining
on the tape.
• No cassette is inserted.*
• Connect the DC plug of the AC
Adaptor to the DC IN jack of your
• The write-protect tab on the cassette is
C:21:ss
• Moisture condensation has occurred.
Remove the cassette and leave your
camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-
Fast flashing:
• The tape has run out.*
C:22:ss
• Clean the head using a cleaning
Z (Eject cassette warning)*
Slow flashing:
• The write-protect tab on the cassette is
C:31:ss / C:32:ss
• Symptoms that are not described above
have occurred. Remove and insert the
cassette, then operate your camcorder
again. Do not perform this procedure if
moisture condensation has occurred
Fast flashing:
• Moisture condensation has occurred
• The self-diagnosis display code is
• Remove the power source. Reconnect it
and operate your camcorder again.
* You hear a melody when the warning indicators
• Change the cassette. Press RESET
again.
E:61:ss / E:62:ss
• Contact your Sony dealer or local
authorized Sony service facility. Inform
them of the 5-digit code, which starts
from “E.”
58
Description of warning
messages
QZ The tape is locked - check the
tab. (p. 62)
If messages appear on the screen, follow the
instructions.
Q The tape has reached the end.
• Rewind or change the tape.
x Battery/Power
x Others
Use the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.
Cannot record due to copyright
protection. (p. 61)
Battery level is low.
Cannot add audio. Disconnect the
Old battery. Use a new one. (p. 62)
Not recorded in SP mode. Cannot
Not recorded in 12-bit audio. Cannot
x Moisture condensation
Cannot add audio on the blank
portion of a tape. (p. 48)
%Z Moisture condensation. Eject
the cassette (p. 65)
• You cannot add sound to a tape
recorded on other devices by 4CH MIC
REC.
% Moisture condensation. Turn off
for 1H. (p. 65)
x Cassette/Tape
x
Dirty video head. Use a
Cannot start Easy Handycam.
• Check if the cassette is damaged.
Cannot cancel Easy Handycam.
Continued ,
59
Warning indicators and messages (Continued)
Invalid during Easy Handycam
operation. (p. 19)
HDV recorded tape. Cannot
playback.
• Your camcorder cannot play back this
format. Play back the tape with the
equipment that recorded it.
HDV recorded tape. Cannot add
audio.
• Your camcorder does not allow you to
add audio on a section of a tape
recorded in HDV format (p. 48).
60
Additional Information
Using your camcorder
abroad
Usable cassette tapes
You can use mini DV format cassettes only.
Use a cassette with the
mark.
Power supply
Your camcorder is not compatible with the
Cassette Memory function.
You can use your camcorder in any
country/region using the AC Adaptor
supplied with your camcorder within the
AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range.
To prevent a blank section from being
created on the tape
Go to the end of the recorded section using
next recording in the following cases:
• You have played back the tape.
On TV color systems
Your camcorder is PAL system, so its
picture can only be viewed on a PAL
system TV with an AUDIO/VIDEO input
jack.
• You have used EDIT SEARCH.
Copyright signal
System
Used in
x When you play back
PAL
Australia, Austria, Belgium,
China, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Finland, Germany,
Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary,
Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia,
If the cassette you play back on your
camcorder contains copyright signals, you
cannot copy it to a tape in another video
camera connected to your camcorder.
New Zealand, Norway, Poland,
Portugal, Singapore,
Slovak Republic, Spain,
x For DCR-HC28E:
When you record
You cannot record software on your
camcorder that contains copyright control
signals for copyright protection of software.
[Cannot record due to copyright
protection.] appears on the LCD screen, or
on the viewfinder if you try to record such
software. Your camcorder does not record
copyright control signals on the tape when
it records.
Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand,
United Kingdom, etc.
PAL - M Brazil
PAL - N Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay.
SECAM Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran,
Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine,
etc.
NTSC
Bahama Islands, Bolivia,
Canada, Central America, Chile,
Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana,
Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Mexico,
Peru, Surinam, Taiwan,
Notes on use
x When not using your camcorder for a
long time
Remove the cassette and store it.
the Philippines, the U.S.A.,
Venezuela, etc.
Simple setting of the clock by time
difference
You can easily set the clock to local time
abroad by the time difference you are in.
Select [WORLD TIME] in the
(OTHERS) menu, then set the time
difference (p. 44).
Continued ,
61
Usable cassette tapes (Continued)
About the
“InfoLITHIUM”battery
pack
This unit is compatible with an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series/H
series).
x To prevent accidental erasure
Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to
set it to SAVE.
Your camcorder operates only with an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.
“InfoLITHIUM” P series battery packs
REC: The cassette can be
recorded.
SAVE: The cassette cannot be
recorded (write-protected).
have the
“InfoLITHIUM” H series battery packs
have the mark.
mark.
REC
SAVE
What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack?
An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a
lithium-ion battery pack that has functions
for communicating information related to
operating conditions between your
camcorder and an optional AC Adaptor/
charger.
x When labeling the cassette
Be sure to place the label only on the
locations shown in the following
illustration so as not to cause a malfunction
of your camcorder.
Do not put a label
along this border.
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
calculates the power consumption
according to the operating conditions of
your camcorder, and displays the remaining
battery time in minutes.
Labeling position
To charge the battery pack
• Be sure to charge the battery pack before you
start using your camcorder.
x After using the cassette
Rewind the tape to the beginning to avoid
distortion of the picture or the sound. The
cassette should then be put in its case, and
stored in an upright position.
• We recommend charging the battery pack in an
ambient temperature of between 10 °C to 30 °C
(50 °F to 86 °F) until the CHG (charge) lamp
turns off. If you charge the battery pack outside
of this temperature range, you may not be able
to charge it efficiently.
• When charging the battery pack while the AC
Adaptor is connected to your camcorder, after
charging is complete, disconnect the cable from
the DC IN jack on your camcorder or remove
the battery pack.
x When cleaning the gold-plated
connector
Generally, clean the gold-plated connector
on a cassette with a cotton-wool swab after
every 10 times it has been ejected.
If the gold-plated connector on the cassette
is dirty or dusty, the remaining tape
indicator may not show correctly.
To use the battery pack effectively
• Battery pack performance decreases when the
surrounding temperature is 10 °C (50 °F) or
below, and the length of time you can use the
battery pack becomes shorter. In that case, do
one of the following to use the battery pack for a
longer time.
Gold-plated connector
62
– Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it up,
and insert it in your camcorder right before
you start taking shots.
– Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FP71/
FP90/FH70/FH100 (optional).
• Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent
playback, fast forward or rewind operation
wears out the battery pack faster.
About battery life
• Battery capacity decreases over time and
through repeated use. If decreased usage time
between charges becomes significant, it is
probably time to replace it with a new one.
• Each battery’s life is governed by storage,
operating and environmental conditions.
We recommend using a large capacity battery
pack: NP-FP71/FP90/FH70/FH100 (optional).
• Be sure to set the POWER switch to OFF(CHG)
when not recording or playing back on your
camcorder. The battery pack is also consumed
when your camcorder is in recording standby or
playback pause.
• Have spare battery packs ready for two or three
times the expected recording time, and make
trial recordings before making the actual
recording.
• Do not expose the battery pack to water. The
battery pack is not water resistant.
About the remaining battery time
indicator
• When the power goes off even though the
remaining battery time indicator indicates that
the battery pack has enough power to operate,
charge the battery pack fully again. Remaining
battery time will be indicated correctly. Note,
however, that the battery indication will not be
restored if it is used in high temperatures for a
long time, or if left in a fully charged state, or
when the battery pack is frequently used. Use
the remaining battery time indication as a rough
guide only.
• The E mark that indicates low battery flashes
even if there are still 5 to 10 minutes of battery
time remaining, depending on the operating
conditions or ambient temperature.
About storage of the battery pack
• If the battery pack is not used for a long time,
fully charge the battery pack and use it up on
your camcorder once a year to maintain proper
function. To store the battery pack, remove it
from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool
place.
• To discharge the battery pack on your
camcorder completely, set [A.SHUT OFF] to
[NEVER] on the
(OTHERS) menu and
leave your camcorder in tape recording standby
63
About i.LINK
The baud rate is listed under
The DV Interface on this unit is an i.LINK-
compliant DV Interface. This section
describes the i.LINK standard and its
features.
“Specifications” in the operating
instructions of each piece of equipment. It
is also indicated near the i.LINK interface
on some devices.
What is i.LINK?
The baud rate may differ from the indicated
value when the unit is connected to a device
with a different maximum baud rate.
i.LINK is a digital serial interface for
transferring digital video, digital audio, and
other data to other i.LINK-compatible
devices. You can also control other devices
using the i.LINK.
i.LINK-compatible devices can be
connected using an i.LINK cable. Possible
applications are operations and data
transactions with various digital AV
devices.
When two or more i.LINK-compatible
devices are daisy-chained with the unit,
operation becomes possible from any
device in the chain. Note that operation
method may vary, or data transactions may
not be possible, depending on specifications
and characteristics of the connected
devices.
* What is Mbps?
Mbps stands for “megabits per second,” or
the amount of data that can be sent or
received in one second. For example, a
baud rate of 100 Mbps means that 100
megabits of data can be sent in one second.
To use i.LINK functions on this unit
For details on how to dub when this unit is
connected to other video devices having a
This unit can also be connected to other
i.LINK (DV Interface) compatible devices
made by Sony (e.g. a VAIO series personal
computer) as well as to video devices.
Some i.LINK compatible video devices,
such as Digital Televisions, DVD,
MICROMV or HDV recorders/players are
not compatible with DV devices. Before
connecting to other devices, be sure to
confirm whether the device is compatible
with a DV device or not. For details on
precautions and compatible application
software, refer also to the operating
• Normally, only one device can be connected to
this unit with an i.LINK cable. When
connecting this unit to an i.LINK-compatible
device having two or more DV Interfaces, refer
to the operating instructions of the device to be
connected.
• i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE
1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and
is a trademark approved by many corporations.
instructions for the device to be connected.
• IEEE 1394 is an international standard
standardized by the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers.
• When you connect this unit to a device equipped
with an i.LINK jack using an i.LINK cable,
power off the device and remove the mains lead
from the wall socket before connecting (or
disconnecting) an i.LINK cable.
About the i.LINK Baud rate
i.LINK’s maximum baud rate varies
according to the device. There are 3 types.
About the required i.LINK cable
S100 (approx. 100Mbps*)
S200 (approx. 200Mbps)
S400 (approx. 400Mbps)
Use the Sony i.LINK 4-pin-to-4-pin cable
(during DV dubbing).
64
Maintenance and precautions
• Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for
example, and operate it. Doing so might cause
heat to build up inside.
• When disconnecting the mains lead, pull it by
the plug and not the lead.
• Do not damage the mains lead such as by
placing anything heavy on it.
• Keep metal contacts clean.
• If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked,
– consult your local authorized Sony service
facility.
– wash off any liquid that may have contacted
your skin
On use and care
• Do not use or store the camcorder and
accessories in the following locations.
– Anywhere extremely hot or cold. Never leave
them exposed to temperatures above 60 °C
(140 °F), such as under direct sunlight, near
heaters or in a car parked in the sun. They
may malfunction or become deformed.
– Near strong magnetic fields or mechanical
vibration. The camcorder may malfunction.
– Near strong radio waves or radiation. The
camcorder may not be able to record properly.
– Near AM receivers and video equipment.
Noise may occur.
– On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If sand
or dust gets in your camcorder, it may
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction
cannot be repaired.
– if any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with
plenty of water and consult a doctor.
x When not using your camcorder for a
long time
• Periodically turn on the camcorder and play a
cassette for about 3 minutes.
• Use up the battery pack completely before
storing it.
– Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD
screen, the viewfinder, or the lens may be
exposed to direct sunlight. This damages the
inside of the viewfinder or the LCD screen.
– Anywhere very humid.
• Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V
(battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor).
Moisture condensation
If your camcorder is brought directly from a
cold place to a warm place, moisture may
condense inside your camcorder, on the
surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this
state, the tape may stick to the head drum
and be damaged or your camcorder may not
operate correctly. If there is moisture inside
your camcorder, [%Z Moisture
condensation. Eject the cassette] or [%
Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H.]
appears. The indicator will not appear when
the moisture condenses on the lens.
• For DC or AC operation, use the accessories
recommended in these operating instructions.
• Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example,
from rain or sea water. If your camcorder gets
wet, it may malfunction. Sometimes this
malfunction cannot be repaired.
• If any solid object or liquid gets inside the
casing, unplug your camcorder and have it
checked by a Sony dealer before operating it
any further.
• Avoid rough handling, disassembling,
modifying, physical shock, or impact such as
hammering, dropping or stepping on the
product. Be particularly careful of the lens.
x If moisture condensation has occurred
None of the functions except cassette
ejection will work. Eject the cassette, turn
off your camcorder, and leave it for about
one hour with the cassette lid open. Your
camcorder can be used again when both of
the following conditions are met:
• Keep the POWER switch setting to OFF(CHG)
when you are not using your camcorder.
Continued ,
65
Maintenance and precautions (Continued)
• The warning message does not appear when the
power is turned on.
– Mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback
picture or the screen is displayed in blue.
• Neither % or Z flash when a cassette is inserted
and video operation buttons are touched.
If moisture starts to condense, your
camcorder sometimes cannot detect
condensation. If this happens, the cassette is
sometimes not ejected for 10 seconds after
the cassette lid is opened. This is not a
malfunction. Do not close the cassette lid
until the cassette is ejected.
– Playback pictures do not move.
– Playback pictures do not appear or the sound
breaks off.
– [x
Dirty video head. Use a cleaning
cassette.] appears on the screen during
recording/playback.
x Note on moisture condensation
Moisture may condense when you bring
your camcorder from a cold place into a
warm place (or vice versa) or when you use
your camcorder in a humid place as shown
below.
• The video heads will wear after long use. If you
cannot obtain a clear image even after using a
cleaning cassette (optional), it might be because
the video heads are worn. Please contact your
Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service
facility to have the video heads replaced.
• When you bring your camcorder from a ski
slope into a place warmed up by a heating
device.
• When you bring your camcorder from an air
conditioned car or room into a hot place outside.
• When you use your camcorder after a squall or a
shower.
• When you use your camcorder in a hot and
humid place.
LCD screen
• Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD
screen, as it may cause damage.
• If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a
residual image may appear on the LCD screen.
This is not a malfunction.
• While using your camcorder, the back of the
LCD screen may heat up. This is not a
malfunction.
x How to avoid moisture condensation
When you bring your camcorder from a
cold place into a warm place, put your
camcorder in a plastic bag and seal it
tightly. Remove the bag when the air
temperature inside the plastic bag has
reached the surrounding temperature (after
about one hour).
x To clean the LCD screen
If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen
dirty, it is recommended you use a soft
cloth to clean it. When you use the LCD
Cleaning Kit (optional), do not apply the
cleaning liquid directly to the LCD screen.
Use cleaning paper moistened with the
liquid.
Video head
• If the video heads are dirty, video or sound
distortion may be apparent.
• If the following problem occurs, clean the video
heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM-
12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).
66
x On adjustment of the LCD screen
(CALIBRATION)
On handling the casing
• If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body
with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water,
and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth.
• Avoid the following to avoid damage to the
finish.
– Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,
alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide
and sunscreen.
– Handling with above substances on your
hands.
– Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or
vinyl objects for a long period of time.
The buttons on the touch panel may not
work correctly. If this happens, follow the
procedure below. It is recommended you
connect your camcorder to the wall socket
using the supplied AC Adaptor during the
operation.
1 Slide the POWER switch to OFF(CHG).
2 Eject the cassette from your camcorder,
then disconnect any connecting cables
except the AC Adaptor from your
camcorder.
3 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn
on the PLAY/EDIT lamp while pressing
DISP/BATT INFO on your camcorder, and
keep pressing down DISP/BATT INFO for
about 5 seconds.
4 Touch the “×” displayed on the screen with
the corner of the “Memory Stick” or the
like.
About care and storage of the lens
• Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft
cloth in the following instances:
– When there are fingerprints on the lens
surface.
– In hot or humid locations
– When the lens is exposed to salty air such as
at the seaside.
• Store in a well-ventilated location subject to
little dirt or dust.
• To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as
described above. It is recommended that you
operate your camcorder about once a month to
keep it in optimum state for a long time.
The position of the “×” changes. If you did
not press the right spot, start from step 4
again.
• You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is
rotated.
Continued ,
67
Maintenance and precautions
(Continued)
Specifications
On charging the pre-installed
rechargeable battery
System
Video recording system
2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system
Audio recording system
Rotary heads, PCM system
Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo
1, stereo 2), 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo)
Video signal
Your camcorder has a pre-installed
rechargeable battery to retain the date, time,
and other settings even when the POWER
switch is set to OFF(CHG). The pre-
installed rechargeable battery is always
charged while your camcorder is connected
to the wall socket via the AC Adaptor or
while the battery pack is attached. The
rechargeable battery will be fully
discharged in about 3 months if you do
not use your camcorder at all without the
AC Adaptor connected or the battery pack
attached. Use your camcorder after
charging the pre-installed rechargeable
battery.
PAL color, CCIR standards
Usable cassette
Mini DV cassette with the
printed
mark
Tape speed
SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s
LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/s
Recording/playback time
However, even if the pre-installed
SP: 60 min (using a DVM60 cassette)
LP: 90 min (using a DVM60 cassette)
Fast forward/rewind time
Approx. 2 min 40 s (using a DVM60
cassette and rechargeable battery pack)
Approx. 1 min 45 s (using a DVM60
cassette and AC Adaptor)
Viewfinder
rechargeable battery is not charged, the
camcorder operation will not be affected as
long as you are not recording the date.
x Procedures
Connect your camcorder to a wall socket
using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave it
with the POWER switch set to OFF(CHG)
for more than 24 hours.
Electric viewfinder (color)
Image device
3.0 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge
Coupled Device)
Gross: Approx. 800 000 pixels
Effective (movie): Approx. 400 000
pixels
Lens
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar
20 × (Optical), 800 × (Digital)
Focal length
f=2.3 ~ 46 mm (3/32 ~ 1 13/16 in.)
When converted to a 35 mm still
camera
In CAMERA: 44 ~ 880 mm (1 3/4 ~
34 1/32 in.)
F1.8 ~ 3.1
Filter diameter: 25 mm (1 in.)
68
Color temperature
General
[AUTO], [ONE PUSH], [INDOOR]
(3 200 K), [OUTDOOR] (5 800 K)
Minimum illumination
5 lx (lux) (F 1.8)
Power requirements
DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery pack)
DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)
Average power consumption
During camera recording using the
viewfinder 1.8 W
0 lx (lux) (during NightShot plus
function)
During camera recording using the
LCD 2.1 W
Operating temperature
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)
Storage temperature
Input/Output connectors
Audio/Video output
10-pin connector
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms),
unbalanced
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω
(ohms), unbalanced
-20 °C to + 60 °C (-4 °F to + 140 °F)
Dimensions (approx.)
65 × 79 × 113 mm
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p, 75 Ω
(ohms), unbalanced
Audio signal: 327 mV (at load
impedance 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Output
impedance with less than 2.2 kΩ
(kilohms)
(2 5/8 × 3 1/8 × 4 1/2 in.) (w/h/d)
(including the projecting parts)
65 × 79 × 113 mm
(2 5/8 × 3 1/8 × 4 1/2 in.) (w/h/d)
(including the projecting parts with
supplied battery pack NP-FP30
attached)
DV input/output (DCR-HC28E)
i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin
connector S100)
DV output (DCR-HC27E)
i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin
connector S100)
Mass (approx.)
360 g (12 oz) main unit only
420 g (14 oz) including the NP-FP30
rechargeable battery pack and DVM60
cassette.
Supplied accessories
LCD screen
See page 8.
Picture
AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B
6.2 cm (2.5 type)
Total dot number
123 200 (560 × 220)
Power requirements
AC 100 V - 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Current consumption
0.35 - 0.18 A
Power consumption
18 W
Output voltage
DC 8.4 V*
Operating temperature
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)
Storage temperature
-20 °C to + 60 °C (-4 °F to + 140 °F)
Continued ,
69
Specifications (Continued)
Dimensions (approx.)
On trademarks
• “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.
• i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony
Corporation.
56 × 31 × 100 mm (2 1/4 × 1 1/4 × 4 in.)
(w/h/d) excluding the projecting parts
Mass (approx.)
190 g (6.7 oz) excluding the mains lead
•
is a trademark.
* See the label on the AC Adaptor for
other specifications.
• “Handycam” and
are
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FP30)
Maximum output voltage
DC 8.4 V
• Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are
trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S.
Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other
countries.
Output voltage
All other product names mentioned herein may be
the trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies. Furthermore, ™ and “®”
are not mentioned in each case in this manual.
DC 7.2 V
Capacity
3.6 Wh (500 mAh)
Dimensions (approx.)
31.8 × 18.5 × 45.0 mm
(1 5/16 × 3/4 × 1 13/16 in) (w/h/d)
Mass (approx.)
40 g (1.5 oz)
Operating temperature
0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F)
Type
Lithium ion
Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
Types of differences
DCR-HC
27E
28E
DV Interface
OUT
IN/OUT
70
Index (Continued)
O
S
Operation confirmation beep
Searching for the starting point
M
P
Movie
Pre-installed rechargeable
T
R
REC CTRL
REC MODE
REC MODE
N
Rechargeable battery pack
NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch
N.S.LIGHT
U
72
V
V SPD PLAY
VF B.L.
Viewfinder lens adjustment
W
WIDE DISP
WIDE SEL
Z
73
Additional information on this product and answers
to frequently asked questions can be found at our
Customer Support Website.
Printed in Japan
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