Sony DCR-PC115E Operating Instructions Manual
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Sony DCR-PC115E Operating Instructions Manual

Digital video camera recorder
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3-070-988-11 (1)
Digital
Video Camera
Recorder
Operating Instructions
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
TM
SERIES
DCR-PC120E
DCR-PC115E/PC120E
©2001 Sony Corporation

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Summary of Contents for Sony DCR-PC115E

  • Page 1: Digital Video Camera

    3-070-988-11 (1) Digital Video Camera Recorder Operating Instructions Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. SERIES DCR-PC120E DCR-PC115E/PC120E ©2001 Sony Corporation...

  • Page 2: Memory Stick

    English Welcome! Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Handycam. With your Handycam you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use.
  • Page 3 (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the USB cable again. DCR-PC120E only Hereby, Sony Corporation, declares that this Handycam is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.

  • Page 4: Main Features

    English Main Features Taking moving or still images, and playing them back •Recording a moving picture on a tape (p. 29) •Recording a still image on a tape (p. 51) •Playing back a tape (p. 44) •Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s (p. 158) •Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s (p.
  • Page 5 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • × • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •...

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    English Table of contents Main Features ..........4 Advanced Playback Operations Quick Start Guide ......... 10 Playing back a tape with picture effects ............... 78 Getting started Playing back a tape with digital effects Using this manual ........14 ............... 79 Checking supplied accessories ....
  • Page 7 Table of contents Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture ......... 180 Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “Memory Stick”s) ...... 184 Copying still images from a tape – Photo save ........188 Viewing a still image –...

  • Page 10: Quick Start Guide

    English Quick Start Guide This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Pull down the Holding Grip to hold your camcorder as illustrated. Holding Grip Connecting the mains lead (p.
  • Page 11 Recording a picture (p. 29) Set the POWER Remove the lens cap. switch to CAMERA while pressing the Viewing a picture with small green button. the viewfinder Close the LCD panel, POWER and pull out the LOCK viewfinder. Press OPEN to open the LCD panel.
  • Page 13 POWER LOCK POWER LOCK POWER LOCK PLAY...

  • Page 14: Getting Started

    — Getting started — Using this manual The instructions in this manual are for the two models listed in the table below. Before you start reading this manual and operating your camcorder, check the model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. The DCR- PC120E is the model used for illustration purposes.
  • Page 15 Using this manual Note on Cassette Memory Your camcorder is based on the DV format. You can only use mini DV cassettes with your camcorder. We recommend that you use a tape with cassette memory The functions which require different operations depending on whether the tape has the cassette memory or not are: –...

  • Page 16: Precautions On Camcorder Care

    Using this manual Precautions on camcorder care Lens and LCD screen/finder (on mounted models only) •The LCD screen and the finder 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 colour) that constantly appear on the LCD screen and the finder.

  • Page 17: Checking Supplied Accessories

    Checking supplied accessories Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 1 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), mains lead (1) (p. 19) 2 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 49) 3 USB cable (1) (p. 198) 4 Battery terminal cover (1) (p. 18) 5 NP-FM50 battery pack (1) (p.

  • Page 18: Step 1 Preparing The Power Supply

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Installing the battery pack (1) While sliding BATT RELEASE in the direction of the arrow 1, slide the battery terminal cover in the direction of the arrow 2. (2) Insert the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.

  • Page 19: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Charging the battery pack Use the battery pack after charging it for your camcorder. Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). See page 239 for details of “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. (1) Open the jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack with the plug’s v mark...

  • Page 20: Charging Time

    Step 1 Preparing the power supply Note Prevent metallic objects from coming into contact with the metal parts of the DC plug of the AC power adaptor. This may cause a short-circuit, damaging the AC power adaptor. While charging the battery pack, the CHG lamp flashes in the following cases: –...
  • Page 21 Step 1 Preparing the power supply Recording time/ Recording with the viewfinder/ Recording with the LCD screen/ Battery pack/ Continuous*/ Typical**/ Continuous*/ Typical**/ NP-FM50 (supplied)/ NP-FM70 NP-FM90 NP-FM91 Approximate minutes when you use a fully charged battery * Approximate continuous recording time at 25°C (77°F).
  • Page 22 This unit is compatible with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery. “InfoLITHIUM” M series battery packs have the mark. SERIES “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation. SERIES...

  • Page 23: Connecting To A Wall Socket

    DC IN jack, even when the mains lead is not plugged into a wall socket. Using a car battery Use Sony DC Adaptor/Charger (optional). Refer to the operating instructions of the DC Adaptor/Charger for further information.

  • Page 24: Step 2 Setting The Date And Time

    Step 2 Setting the date and time Set the date and time settings when you use your camcorder for the first time. “CLOCK SET” will be displayed each time that you set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY unless you set the date and time settings.
  • Page 25 Step 2 Setting the date and time MA NU A L S E T S E T U P ME NU P ROGR AM A E C L OC K S E T – – : – –:– – P E F F E C T L T R S I Z E D E F F E C T D EMO MOD E...

  • Page 26: Simple Setting Of Clock By Time Difference

    Step 2 Setting the date and time Simple setting of clock by time difference You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference. Select AREA SET, SUMMERTIME in the menu settings. See page 140 for more information. World time differences 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31 2 3 4 6 8 10 12 13 14 16 17 18...

  • Page 27: Step 3 Inserting A Cassette

    Step 3 Inserting a cassette (1)Install the power source. (2) Slide OPEN/Z EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens. (3) Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert.
  • Page 28 Step 3 Inserting a cassette Notes •Do not press the cassette compartment down • forcibly. Doing so may cause a malfunction. •The cassette compartment may not be closed when you press any part of the lid other than • mark. When you use cassette with cassette memory Read the instruction about cassette memory to use this function properly (p.

  • Page 29: Recording - Basics

    — Recording – Basics — Recording a picture Your camcorder automatically focuses for you. (1) Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on its sides and pull the lens cap string to fix (2) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Step 1”...
  • Page 30 Recording a picture Notes • •Fasten the grip strap firmly. •Do not touch the built-in microphone during • recording. Note on Recording mode Your camcorder records and plays back in the SP (standard play) mode and in the LP (long play) mode.

  • Page 31: Adjusting The Lcd Screen

    Recording a picture When you record in the SP and LP modes on one tape or you record in the LP mode •The transition between scenes may not be smooth. • •The playback picture may be distorted or the time code may not be written properly between •...

  • Page 32: Adjusting The Brightness Of The Lcd Screen

    Recording a picture Note When using the LCD screen except in the mirror mode, the viewfinder automatically turns off (p. 36). When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight The LCD screen may be difficult to see. If this happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder.

  • Page 33: Adjusting The Viewfinder

    Recording a picture Adjusting the viewfinder If you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus. Pull out the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever.

  • Page 34: Using The Zoom Feature

    Recording a picture Notes •When you use the Remote Commander and the • lens hood, the Remote Commander may not function properly because the lens hood blocks the infrared rays from the Remote Commander. In such case, remove the lens hood from your camcorder.
  • Page 35 Recording a picture To use zoom greater than 10× × Zoom greater than 10× is performed digitally. To × activate digital zoom, select the digital zoom power in D ZOOM in the menu settings (p. 132). The digital zoom function is set to OFF as a default setting.

  • Page 36: Shooting With The Mirror Mode

    Recording a picture Shooting with the Mirror Mode This feature allows the camera subject to view him-or herself on the LCD screen. The subject uses this feature to check his or her own image on the LCD screen while you look at the subject in the viewfinder.
  • Page 37 Recording a picture Indicators displayed in the recording mode The indicators are not recorded on tapes. Remaining battery time/ Cassette memory/ This appears when using a tape with cassette memory./ Recording mode/ STBY/REC/STBY/ Time code/Tape counter/ 0:00:01 45min Remaining tape/ This appears after you insert a cassette and record or play back for a while./ 7 2001...

  • Page 38: Shooting Backlit Subjects - Back Light

    Recording a picture Time code The time code indicates the recording or playback time, “0:00:00” (hours:minutes: seconds) in CAMERA mode and “0:00:00:00” (hours:minutes:seconds:frames) in VCR mode. You cannot rewrite only the time code. Remaining tape indicator The indicator may not be displayed accurately depending on the tape.

  • Page 39: Shooting In The Dark - Nightshot/Super Nightshot

    Recording a picture Shooting in the dark – NightShot/Super NightShot The NightShot function enables you to shoot a subject in a dark place. For example, you can satisfactorily record the environment of nocturnal animals for observation when you use this function. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON.
  • Page 40 Recording a picture Notes • •Do not use the NightShot function in bright places (ex. the outdoors in the daytime). This may cause your camcorder to malfunction. • •When you keep NIGHTSHOT set to ON in normal recording, the picture may be recorded in incorrect or unnatural colours.

  • Page 41: Self-Timer Recording

    Recording a picture Self-timer recording Recording with the self-timer starts in 10 seconds automatically. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. (1) Press (self-timer) in the standby mode. The (self-timer) indicator appears on the screen. (2) Press START/STOP. Self-timer starts counting down from 10 with a beep sound.

  • Page 42: Checking The Recording - End Search / Editsearch / Rec Review

    Checking the recording – END SEARCH / EDITSEARCH / Rec Review You can use these buttons to check the recorded picture or shoot so that the transition between the last recorded scene and the next scene you record is smooth. EDIT SEARCH SEARCH...

  • Page 43: Rec Review

    Checking the recording – END SEARCH / EDITSEARCH / Rec Review Rec Review You can check the last recorded section. Press the –/7 side of EDITSEARCH momentarily in the standby mode. The section you have stopped most recently will be played back for a few seconds, and then your camcorder will return to the standby mode.

  • Page 44: Playback - Basics

    — Playback – Basics — Playing back a tape You can monitor the playback picture on the screen. If you close the LCD panel, you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can control playback using the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder.

  • Page 45: To Display The Screen Indicators - Display Function

    Playing back a tape When monitoring on the LCD screen You can turn the LCD panel over and move it back to the camcorder body with the LCD screen facing out. If you leave the power on for a long time Your camcorder gets warm.
  • Page 46 Playing back a tape About date/time and various settings Your camcorder automatically records not only images on the tape but also the recording data (date/time or various settings when recorded) (Data code). Use the Remote Commander for this operation. 1 Set the POWER switch to VCR, then playback a tape.

  • Page 47: Various Playback Modes

    Playing back a tape When you use the data code function, bars (-- -- --) appear if: – A blank portion of the tape is being played back. – The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise. – The tape was recorded by a camcorder without the date and time set.

  • Page 48: Slow Playback

    Playing back a tape To monitor the high-speed picture while advancing or rewinding the tape (skip scan) Keep pressing m while rewinding or M while advancing the tape. To resume rewinding or advancing, release the button. To view the picture at slow speed (slow playback) Press y on the Remote Commander during playback.

  • Page 49: Viewing The Recording On Tv

    Viewing the recording on TV Connect your camcorder to your TV with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder to watch the playback picture on the TV screen. You can operate the video control buttons in the same way as when you monitor playback pictures on the screen.
  • Page 50 Viewing the recording on TV If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin connector (EUROCONNECTOR) – European models only Use the 21-pin adaptor supplied with your camcorder. If your TV has an S video jack Pictures can be reproduced more faithfully by using an S video cable (optional).

  • Page 51: Advanced Recording Operations

    — Advanced Recording Operations — Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording You can record an still image like a photograph. You can record about 510 images in the SP mode and about 765 images in the LP mode on a 60- minute tape.
  • Page 52 Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording Notes •During tape photo recording, you cannot • change the mode or setting. •When recording a still image, do not shake • your camcorder. The image may fluctuate. •You cannot use PHOTO during the following operations: •...
  • Page 53 Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording Recording images with the flash The flash pops up automatically. The default setting is auto (no indicator). To change the flash mode, press the (flash) repeatedly until the flash mode indicator appears on the screen. (flash)/ Each press of (flash) changes the indicator as...
  • Page 54 Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording • (auto red-eye reduction) may not produce • the desired effect depending on individual differences, the distance to the subject, the subject not looking at the pre-recording flash or other conditions.
  • Page 55 Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording You cannot shoot images with the flash during the following operations: – Low lux of PROGRAM AE – Super NightShot – Digital effect – Fader – Recording The flash does not fire even if you select auto (no indicator) and (auto red-eye reduction) during the following operations:...
  • Page 56 Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording Self-timer recording You can record still images on tapes with the self- timer. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. (1) Press (self-timer) in the standby mode. The (self-timer) indicator appears on the screen.

  • Page 57: Adjusting The White Balance Manually

    Adjusting the white balance manually You can manually adjust and set the white balance. This adjustment makes white subjects look white and allows more natural colour balance. Normally white balance is automatically adjusted. (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY.
  • Page 58 Adjusting the white balance manually If the picture is being taken in a studio lit by TV lighting We recommend that you record in the n indoor mode. When you record under fluorescent lighting Use the automatic white balance or hold mode. Your camcorder may not adjust the white balance correctly in the n indoor mode.

  • Page 59: Using The Wide Mode

    Using the wide mode You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE). Black bands appear on the screen during recording in 16:9WIDE mode [a]. The picture during a playback on a normal TV [b] or on a wide-screen TV [c] is compressed in the widthwise direction.

  • Page 60: Using The Fader Function

    Using the fader function You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance. STBY FADER M. FADER (mosaic)/ BOUNCE 1) 2) OVERLAP WIPE STBY MONOTONE When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black-and-white to colour. When fading out, the picture gradually changes from colour to black-and-white.
  • Page 61 Using the fader function (1) When fading in [a] In the standby mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. When fading out [b] In the recording mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. The indicator changes as follows: FADER t M.
  • Page 62 Using the fader function When you select OVERLAP, WIPE, or DOT Your camcorder automatically stores the image recorded on a tape. As the image is being stored, the indicators flash fast, and the playback picture disappears. At this stage, the picture may not be recorded clearly, depending on the tape condition.

  • Page 63: Using Special Effects - Picture Effect

    Using special effects – Picture effect You can digitally process images to obtain special effects like those in films or on TV. NEG. ART [a] : The colour and brightness of the picture are reversed. NEG. ART [a] : SEPIA : The picture gets sepia.
  • Page 64 Using special effects – Picture effect To cancel the picture effect function Set P EFFECT to OFF in the menu settings. While using the picture effect function You cannot select OLD MOVIE mode with D EFFECT. When you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) The picture effect is automatically cancelled.

  • Page 65: Using Special Effects - Digital Effect

    Using special effects – Digital effect You can add special effects to recorded pictures using the various digital functions. The sound is recorded normally. STILL You can record a still image so that it is superimposed on a moving picture. FLASH (FLASH MOTION) You can record still images successively at constant intervals.
  • Page 66 Using special effects – Digital effect (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. Press MENU, then select and decide upon D EFFECT in with the control button (p. 132). (2) Select and decide upon the desired digital effect mode with the control button. The bars appear.
  • Page 67 Using special effects – Digital effect To cancel the digital effect function Set D EFFECT to OFF in the menu settings. Notes •The following functions do not work during digital effect: • – Fader – Low lux of PROGRAM AE (The indicator flashes.) –...

  • Page 68: Using The Program Ae Function

    Using the PROGRAM AE function You can select PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) mode to suit your specific shooting requirements. Spotlight This mode prevents peoples’ faces, for example, from appearing excessively white when shooting subjects lit by strong light in the theatre. Soft portrait This mode brings out the subject while creating a soft background for subjects such as people or...
  • Page 69 Using the PROGRAM AE function (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY. Press MENU, then select and decide upon PROGRAM AE in with the control button (p. 132). (2) Select and decide upon the desired PROGRAM AE mode with the control button. MA N U A L S E T P ROGR AM A E A U T O...
  • Page 70 Using the PROGRAM AE function •When you set the POWER switch to MEMORY, • the following modes do not work (The indicator flashes.): – Low lux – Sports lesson • •The PROGRAM AE function does not work in the following cases. (The indicator flashes.) –...

  • Page 71: Adjusting The Exposure Manually

    Adjusting the exposure manually You can manually adjust and set the exposure. Normally exposure is automatically adjusted. Adjust the exposure manually in the following cases: – The subject is backlit – Bright subject and dark background – To record dark pictures (e.g. night scenes) faithfully (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY, press EXPOSURE.

  • Page 72: Focusing Manually

    Focusing manually You can gain better results by manually adjusting the focus in the following cases. Normally, focus is automatically adjusted: •The autofocus mode is not effective when shooting: – subjects through glass coated with water • droplets – horizontal stripes –...
  • Page 73 Focusing manually To record distant subjects When you press FOCUS down firmly, the lens focuses on and indicator appears. When you release FOCUS, your camcorder returns to the manual focus mode. Use this mode when your camcorder focuses on near objects even though you are trying to shoot a distant object.

  • Page 74: Interval Recording

    Interval recording You can make a time-lapse recording by setting the camcorder to automatically record and standby sequentially. You can achieve an excellent recording for flowering, emergence, etc., with this function. Example/ 9 min 59 s 9 min 59 s 10 min 10 min [a] REC TIME...
  • Page 75 Interval recording POWER LOCK CAMERA SET CAMERA SET D ZOOM D ZOOM 16 : 9W I DE 16 : 9W I DE STEADYSHOT STEADYSHOT N. S. L I GHT N. S. L I GHT FRAME REC FRAME REC I NT. REC I NT.

  • Page 76: Frame By Frame Recording - Cut Recording

    Frame by frame recording – Cut recording You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording. To create this effect, alternately move the subject a little and make a cut recording. We recommend that you use a tripod, and operate the camcorder using the Remote Commander after step 4.
  • Page 77 Frame by frame recording – Cut recording To cancel the cut recording Perform either of the following: – Set FRAME REC to OFF in the menu settings. – Set the POWER switch to other than CAMERA. Note The proper remaining tape time is not indicated if you use this function continuously.

  • Page 78: Advanced Playback Operations

    — Advanced Playback Operations — Playing back a tape with picture effects During playback, you can process a scene using the picture effect functions: NEG. ART, SEPIA, B&W and SOLARIZE. (1) In the playback or playback pause mode, press MENU, then select and decide upon P EFFECT in with the control button (p.

  • Page 79: Playing Back A Tape With Digital Effects

    Playing back a tape with digital effects During playback, you can process a scene using the digital effect functions: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL. (1) In the playback or playback pause mode, press MENU, then select and decide upon D EFFECT in with the control button (p.
  • Page 80 Playing back a tape with digital effects Notes •You cannot process externally input scenes • using the digital effect function. •You cannot record images on a tape on your camcorder when you have processed the image • using the digital effect function. However, you can record images on a “Memory Stick”...

  • Page 81: Enlarging Images Recorded On Tapes - Tape Pb Zoom

    Enlarging images recorded on tapes – Tape PB ZOOM You can enlarge playback images recorded on tapes. Besides the operation described here, your camcorder can enlarge still images recorded on “Memory Stick”s (p. 206). (1) In the playback or playback pause mode, press PB ZOOM on your camcorder.
  • Page 82 Enlarging images recorded on tapes – PB ZOOM Notes •You cannot process externally input scenes • using the PB ZOOM function with your camcorder. •You cannot record images on a tape on your • camcorder when you have processed the image using the tape PB ZOOM function.

  • Page 83: Quickly Locating A Scene Using The Zero Set Memory Function

    Quickly locating a scene using the zero set memory function Your camcorder goes forward or backward to automatically stop at a desired scene having a tape counter value of “0:00:00”. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. (1) In the playback mode, press DISPLAY. (2) Press ZERO SET MEMORY at the point you want to locate later.

  • Page 84: Searching The Boundaries Of Recorded Tape By Title - Title Search

    Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title – Title search If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can search for the boundaries of recorded tape by title. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Before operation Set CM SEARCH in to ON in the menu settings.
  • Page 85 Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title – Title search If you use a tape without cassette memory You cannot superimpose or search a title. If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions The title search function may not work correctly. To superimpose a title See page 123.

  • Page 86: Searching A Recording By Date - Date Search

    Searching a recording by date – Date search You can automatically search for the point where the recording date changes and start playback from that point (Date search). Use a tape with cassette memory for convenience. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Use this function to check where recording dates change or to edit the tape at each recording date.

  • Page 87: Searching For The Date Without Using Cassette Memory

    Searching a recording by date – Date search To stop searching Press x. Note If one day’s recording is less than two minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes. If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions The date search function may not work correctly.

  • Page 88: Searching For A Photo - Photo Search/Photo Scan

    Searching for a photo – Photo search/ Photo scan You can search for a still image you have recorded on a tape (photo search). You can also search for still images one after another and display each image for five seconds automatically regardless of cassette memory (photo scan).
  • Page 89 Searching for a photo – Photo search/Photo scan To stop searching Press x. Searching for a photo without using cassette memory (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Press MENU, then select and decide upon CM SEARCH in to OFF with the control button (p.

  • Page 90: Scanning Photo

    Searching for a photo – Photo search/Photo scan Scanning photo (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly until the PHOTO SCAN indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH no indicator T PHOTO SCAN (3) Press .

  • Page 91: Editing

    — Editing — Dubbing a tape Using the A/V connecting cable You can dub or edit on the VCR connected to your camcorder using your camcorder as a player. Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder.
  • Page 92 Dubbing a tape When you have finished dubbing a tape Press x on both your camcorder and the VCR. You can edit on VCRs that support the following systems: 8 mm, Hi8, VHS, S-VHS, VHSC, S-VHSC, Betamax, mini DV, Digital8 If your VCR is a monaural type Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and the white or the...
  • Page 93 Dubbing a tape (1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert the recorded tape into your camcorder. (2) Prepare the VCR for recording. Set the input selector to LINE. Refer to the operating instructions of the VCR.

  • Page 94: Dubbing Only Desired Scenes - Digital Program Editing (On Tapes)

    Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) You can duplicate selected scenes (programmes) for editing onto a tape without operating the VCR. Scenes can be selected by frame. You can set up to 20 programmes. Your camcorder can dub on “Memory Stick”s. See p.
  • Page 95 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) Step 1: Connecting the VCR You can connect both an A/V connecting cable and an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). When you use the A/V connecting cable, connect the devices as illustrated on page 91. When you use an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable), connect the devices as illustrated on page 93.
  • Page 96 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) MENU 0 : 0 8 : 5 5 : 0 6 O T H E R S O T H E R S V I D EO E D I T D A T A COD E D A T A COD E B E E P...
  • Page 97 VCR. The default setting is code number 3. IR SETUP code/ IR SETUP code/ Brand/ Brand/ 28, 29 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Sony Mitsubishi 47, 53, 54 36, 89 Aiwa Nokia 50, 62, 74 Akai...
  • Page 98 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) (2) Setting the modes to cancel the recording pause on the VCR Select and decide upon PAUSEMODE with the control button, then select and decide upon the mode to cancel recording pause on the VCR with the control button.
  • Page 99 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) (3) Setting your camcorder and the VCR to face each other Locate the infrared rays emitter of your camcorder and face it towards the remote sensor of the VCR. Set the devices about 30 cm (12 in.) apart, and remove any obstacles between the devices.

  • Page 100: Dv Connecting Cable

    Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) (4) Confirming the VCR operation 1 Insert a recordable tape into the VCR, then set to recording pause. 2 Select and decide upon IR TEST with the control button. 3 Select and decide upon EXECUTE with the control button.
  • Page 101 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) (3) Press MENU, then select and decide upon VIDEO EDIT in with the control button (p. 132). (4) Select and decide upon TAPE with the control button. (5) Select and decide upon EDIT SET with the control button.
  • Page 102 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) When you connect using i.LINK (DV connecting cable) You cannot dub the titles or display indicators. Step 3: Adjusting the synchronization of the You can adjust the synchronization of your camcorder and the VCR.
  • Page 103 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) (10) Select and decide upon the average (10) numerical value of OUT with the control button. The calculated stop position for recording is set. (11) Select and decide upon RETURN with (11) the control button.
  • Page 104 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) Operation 1: Making the programme (1) Insert the tape for playback into your camcorder, and insert a tape for recording into the VCR. (2) Press MENU, then select and decide upon VIDEO EDIT in with the control button (p.
  • Page 105 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) MENU V I D EO E D I T 0 : 0 8 : 5 5 : 0 6 O T H E R S O T H E R S MA R K 1 I N D A T A COD E...
  • Page 106 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) Erasing all programmes (1) Select and decide upon VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings, then select and decide upon TAPE with the control button. (2) Select and decide upon ERASE ALL, then select and decide upon EXECUTE with the control button.
  • Page 107 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) Operation 2: Performing the programme (Dubbing a tape) Make sure your camcorder and VCR are connected, and that the VCR is set to recording pause. When you use an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) the following procedure is not necessary.
  • Page 108 Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (on tapes) You cannot record on the VCR when: – The tape has run out. – The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock. – The IR SETUP code is not correct (when IR is selected).

  • Page 109: Using With Analog Video Unit And Your Computer - Signal Convert Function

    Using with analog video unit and your computer – Signal convert function You can capture images and sound from an analog video unit connected to your computer which has the i.LINK (DV) jack to your camcorder. Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR.
  • Page 110 Using with analog video unit and your computer – Signal convert function Notes •You need to install software which can • exchange video signals. •Depending on the condition of the analog video • signals, the computer may not be able to output the images correctly when you convert analog video signals into digital video signals via your camcorder.

  • Page 111: Recording Video Or Tv Programmes

    Recording video or TV programmes Using the A/V connecting cable You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV programme from a TV that has video/audio outputs. Use your camcorder as a recorder. Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) (1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into your camcorder.
  • Page 112 VTR 2. Commander modes 1, 2 and 3 are used to distinguish your camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in the commander mode VTR 2, we recommend changing the commander mode or covering the sensor of the...
  • Page 113 Recording video or TV programmes Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Simply connect the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (optional) to DV jack of your camcorder and to DV OUT of the DV products. With a digital-to-digital connection, video and audio signals are transmitted in digital form for high- quality editing.
  • Page 114 VTR 2. Commander modes 1, 2 and 3 are used to distinguish your camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in the commander mode VTR 2, we recommend changing the commander mode or covering the sensor of the...

  • Page 115: Inserting A Scene From A Vcr - Insert Editing

    Inserting a scene from a VCR – Insert editing You can insert a new scene from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by specifying the insert start and end points. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Connections are the same as on page 111 or 113.
  • Page 116 If you insert scenes on the tape recorded with other camcorder (including other DCR-PC115E/ PC120E) The picture and sound may be distorted. We recommend that you insert scenes on a tape recorded with your camcorder.
  • Page 117 VTR 2. Commander modes 1, 2 and 3 are used to distinguish your camcorder from other Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If you use another Sony VCR in the commander mode VTR 2, we recommend changing the commander mode or covering the sensor of the...

  • Page 118: Audio Dubbing

    Audio dubbing You can record an audio sound to add to the original sound on a tape by connecting audio equipment or a microphone. If you connect the audio equipment, you can add sound to your recorded tape by specifying starting and ending points.
  • Page 119 Audio dubbing Connecting the A/V connecting cable to the AUDIO/VIDEO jack Audio equipment/ LINE OUT AUDIO L AUDIO R Do not connect the video AUDIO/ (yellow) plug./ VIDEO : Signal flow/ Dubbing with the built-in microphone No connection is necessary. Note When dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack or the built-in microphone, pictures are not output...

  • Page 120: Adding An Audio Sound On A Recorded Tape

    Audio dubbing Adding an audio sound on a recorded tape Choose a connection mentioned before, and connect audio equipment or microphone to your camcorder. Then follow the procedure below. (1) Insert the recorded tape into your camcorder. (2) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder.

  • Page 121: Monitoring The New Recorded Sound

    You cannot add a sound to a recorded tape. • We recommend that you add new sound on a tape recorded with your camcorder If you add new sound on a tape recorded with another camcorder (including other DCR-PC115E/PC120E), the sound quality may become worse.
  • Page 122 Audio dubbing If you set the write-protect tab of the tape to lock You cannot record on a tape. Slide the write- protect tab to release the write protection. To add new sound more precisely Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander at the point where you want to stop recording later in the playback mode.

  • Page 123: Superimposing A Title

    Superimposing a title If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the title. When you play back the tape, the title is displayed for five seconds from the point where you superimposed it. You can select one of eight preset titles and two custom titles (p.
  • Page 124 Superimposing a title P R E S E T T I T L E P R E S E T T I T L E H E L L O ! H E L L O ! H A P P Y B I R T HD A Y H A P P Y B I R T HD A Y H A P P Y HO L I D A Y S H A P P Y HO L I D A Y S...
  • Page 125 Superimposing a title If the tape has too many index signals You may not be able to superimpose a title because the memory is full. In this case, delete data you do not need. Not to display titles Set TITLE DSPL to OFF in the menu settings (p.

  • Page 126: Erasing A Title

    Superimposing a title Erasing a title (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR. (2) Press MENU, then select and decide upon TITLEERASE in with the control button (p. 132). (3) Select and decide upon the title you want to erase with the control button.

  • Page 127: Making Your Own Titles

    Making your own titles You can make up to two titles and store them in the memory of your camcorder. Each title can have up to 20 characters. (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR. (2) Press MENU, then select and decide upon TITLE in with the control button (p.
  • Page 128 Making your own titles If you take five minutes or longer to enter characters in the standby mode while a cassette is in your camcorder The power automatically goes off. The characters you have entered remain stored in memory. Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG) once and then to CAMERA again, then proceed from step 1.

  • Page 129: Labelling A Cassette

    Labelling a cassette If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can label a cassette. The label can consist of up to 10 characters and is stored in cassette memory. When you insert the labelled cassette and turn the power on, the label is displayed for about five seconds.
  • Page 130 Labelling a cassette To erase the label you have made Select and decide upon [C] with the control button in step 4. The last character is erased. To change the label you have made Insert the cassette to change the label, and operate in the same way to make a new label.

  • Page 131: Erasing All The Data In Cassette Memory

    Labelling a cassette Erasing all the data in cassette memory You can erase all the data in cassette memory at once. (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR. (2) Press MENU, then select and decide upon ERASE ALL in with the control button (p.

  • Page 132: Customising Your Camcorder

    — Customising Your Camcorder — Changing the menu settings To change the mode settings in the menu settings, select the menu items with the control button. The default settings can be partially changed. First, select the icon, then the menu item and then the mode.

  • Page 133: Selecting The Mode Setting Of Each Item

    Changing the menu settings To make the menu display disappear Press MENU. This manual refers to selecting and deciding upon items by the above procedure as “Select and decide upon [(item name)].” Menu items are displayed as the following icons: MANUAL SET CAMERA SET VCR SET...
  • Page 134 Changing the menu settings POWER Icon/item Mode Meaning switch z OFF To deactivate the digital zoom. Up to 10× zoom is CAMERA D ZOOM carried out. 20× To activate the digital zoom. More than 10× to 20× zoom is performed digitally (p. 34). 120×...
  • Page 135 Changing the menu settings POWER Icon/item Mode Meaning switch z STEREO To play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape HiFi SOUND with main and sub sound (p. 238). To play back a stereo tape with the left sound or a dual sound tape with main sound.
  • Page 136 Changing the menu settings POWER Icon/item Mode Meaning switch —— To adjust the brightness on the LCD screen with b/B LCD BRIGHT on the control button. CAMERA MEMORY To darken To lighten z BRT NORMAL To set the brightness on the LCD screen normal. LCD B.
  • Page 137 Changing the menu settings POWER Icon/item Mode Meaning switch MOVIE SET z 320 × 240 To record moving pictures in 320 × 240 size (p. 155). IMAGESIZE MEMORY 160 × 112 To record moving pictures in 160 × 112 size. z AUTO To display the remaining capacity of the “Memory REMAIN...
  • Page 138 Changing the menu settings POWER Icon/item Mode Meaning switch z RETURN To cancel prints of split screen. MEMORY 9PIC PRINT SAME To make prints of same split screen (p. 215). MULTI To make prints of different split screen. MARKED To make prints of images with print marks in recording order.
  • Page 139 When you play back the tape on other camcorders or VCRs, noise may occur in pictures or sound. •When you record in the LP mode, we recommend using a Sony Excellence/Master cassette so that you can get the most out of your camcorder.
  • Page 140 Changing the menu settings POWER Icon/item Mode Meaning switch z DATE/CAM To display date, time and various settings during DATA CODE playback (p. 45). MEMORY DATE To display date and time during playback. AREA SET —— Temporarily change the area where you are using CAMERA your camcorder.
  • Page 141 PROGRAM AE —— P EFFECT —— D EFFECT —— WHT BAL —— AUTO SHTR...
  • Page 142 D ZOOM × × 16:9WIDE — STEADYSHOT N.S. LIGHT FRAME REC INT. REC FLASH LVL HOLOGRAM F • •...
  • Page 143 HiFi SOUND AUDIO MIX —— A/VtDV OUT NTSC PB...
  • Page 144 LCD BRIGHT —— LCD B. L. LCD COLOUR —— VF B.L. STILL SET PIC MODE QUALITY × IMAGESIZE × × × • •...
  • Page 145 MOVIE SET × IMAGESIZE × × × REMAIN • • • PRINT MARK PROTECT —— SLIDE SHOW —— DELETE ALL FORMAT —— PHOTO SAVE • • • • • •...
  • Page 146 9PIC PRINT DATE/TIME —— TITLE —— TITLEERASE TITLE DSPL CM SEARCH —— TAPE TITLE —— ERASE ALL...
  • Page 147 REC MODE AUDIO MODE qREMAIN • • —— CLOCK SET LTR SIZE × DEMO MODE • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 148 DATA CODE AREA SET —— SUMMERTIME BEEP COMMANDER DISPLAY REC LAMP VIDEO EDIT...

  • Page 149: Memory Stick" Operations

    — “Memory Stick” Operations — Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction You can record and play back images on a “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder. You can easily play back, record or delete images. You can exchange image data with other equipment such as your computer etc., using the USB cable for “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 150 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Using a “Memory Stick” Terminal/ Write-protect tab/ Labelling position/ •You cannot record or erase images when the • write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick” is set to LOCK. •The position and shape of the write-protect tab may be different depending on the model.
  • Page 151 (p. 137). However, formatting erases all information on the “Memory Stick.” •“Memory Stick” and are trademarks of Sony Corporation. • •Windows and Windows Media are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
  • Page 152 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Inserting a “Memory Stick” Insert a “Memory Stick” in the “Memory Stick” slot as far as it can go with the b mark facing as illustrated. “Memory Stick” slot/ Access lamp/ b mark/ Ejecting a “Memory Stick” Press the “Memory Stick”...

  • Page 153: Selecting Still Image Quality Mode

    Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Selecting still image quality mode You can select image quality mode in still image recording. The default setting is SUPER FINE. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.

  • Page 154: Image Quality Settings

    Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Image quality settings Setting Meaning SUPER FINE This is the highest image quality in (SFN) your camcorder. The number of still images you can record is less than in FINE mode. The image is compressed to about 1/3.

  • Page 155: Selecting The Image Size

    Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Selecting the image size You can select either of two image sizes Still images: 1360 × 1020 or 640 × 480. (When the × POWER switch is set to VCR, the × image size is automatically set to 640 ×...
  • Page 156 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Image size settings/ Setting/ Meaning/ Indicator/ Recording/ Playback/ Records 1360 × 1020 still images./ 1360 × 1020 × 1360 1360 Records 640 × 480 still images./ 640 × 480 × Records 320 × 240 moving pictures./ 320 ×...
  • Page 157 Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Approximate time of moving pictures you can record on a “Memory Stick” The time of moving pictures you can record varies depending on which image size you select and the complexity of the subject. 160 ×...

  • Page 158: Recording Still Images On "Memory Stick"S - Memory Photo Recording

    Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording You can record still images on “Memory Stick”s. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.
  • Page 159 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording When the POWER switch is set to MEMORY The following functions do not work: – Wide mode – Digital zoom – SteadyShot function – SUPER NIGHTSHOT – Fader – Picture effect –...

  • Page 160: Recording Images Continuously

    Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording Recording images continuously You can record still images continuously. Select one of the three modes described below before recording. NORMAL [a] Your camcorder shoots up to three still images in 1360 ×...
  • Page 161 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU, then select and decide upon STILL SET in with the control button (p.
  • Page 162 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording When shooting with the self-timer function or the Remote Commander Your camcorder automatically records up to the maximum recordable number of still images. When selecting HIGH SPEED Flickering or changes in colour may occur. Also, your camcorder prevents focusing on near objects.
  • Page 163 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording The flash is adjusted to the appropriate brightness through the photocell window for the flash. You can also change FLASH LVL to the desired brightness in the menu settings (p. 132). Try recording various images to find the most appropriate setting for FLASH LVL.
  • Page 164 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording Shooting using the HOLOGRAM The HOLOGRAM AF is an auxiliary light source used for focusing on subjects in dark places. Set HOLOGRAM F to AUTO in the menu settings. (The default setting is AUTO.) When appears on the screen in a dark place, press PHOTO lightly.

  • Page 165: Self-Timer Memory Photo Recording

    Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording Notes •If enough light does not reach the subject even • if the HOLOGRAM AF emitter is emitted (recommended shooting distance is 2.5 m (8 1/3 feet)), the subject will not be focused. •Focus is achieved as long as HOLOGRAM AF light reaches to the subject even if its light is slightly out of the middle position of the...
  • Page 166 Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory Photo recording (3) Press PHOTO deeper. Self-timer starts counting down from 10 with a beep sound. In the last two seconds of the countdown, the beep sound gets faster, then recording starts automatically. PHOTO PHOTO (self-timer)/...

  • Page 167: Recording An Image From A Tape As A Still Image

    Recording an image from a tape as a still image Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick.” Your camcorder can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick.”...

  • Page 168: Recording An Image From A Tape As A Still Image

    Recording an image from a tape as a still image Image size of still images Image size is automatically set to 640 × 480. × When the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike the unit. As well do not turn the power off , eject a “Memory Stick”.

  • Page 169: Recording A Still Image From Other Equipment

    Recording an image from a tape as a still image Recording a still image from other equipment Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Play back the recorded tape, or turn the TV on to see the desired programme.
  • Page 170 Recording an image from a tape as a still image Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) DV OUT (optional)/ : Signal flow/ Note The “ ” may flash in the following instances. If this happens, eject and insert “Memory Stick“ again, and record distortion-free images.

  • Page 171: Superimposing A Still Image In The "Memory Stick" On An Image - Memory Mix

    Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX You can superimpose a still image you have recorded on the “Memory Stick” on top of the moving image you are recording. You can record the superimposed images on a tape or a “Memory Stick.”...

  • Page 172: Memory Mix

    Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX Still image/ Moving image/ M. CHROM Blue/ Still image/ Moving image/ M. LUMI Still image/ Moving image/ C. CHROM Still image/ Moving image/ Blue/ M. OVERLAP* * The superimposed image using Memory overlap function can be recorded on tapes only.
  • Page 173 Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX (5) Press z on the control button. The still image is superimposed on the moving image. (6) Press b/B on the control button to adjust the effect.
  • Page 174 Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX To change the still image to superimpose Do either of the following: – Press MEMORY+/– before step 7. – Press z on the control button before step 7, and repeat the procedure from step 4.

  • Page 175: Still Image

    Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX Recording superimposed images on a “Memory Stick” as a still image Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” recorded still images into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.
  • Page 176 Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX MEMORY M. CHROM M. LUMI 100–0021 Still image/ 100–0021 M. LUMI I I I • • • • 100–0021 M. LUMI I • • • • • • 100–0021 To change the still image to superimpose...
  • Page 177 Superimposing a still image in the “Memory Stick” on an image – MEMORY MIX Notes •You cannot use MEMORY MIX function for • moving pictures recorded on “Memory Stick”s. •When the overlapping still image has a large amount of white, the thumbnail image of the •...

  • Page 178: Recording Moving Pictures On "Memory Stick"S - Mpeg Movie Recording

    Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s – MPEG movie recording You can record moving pictures with sound on “Memory Stick”s. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.
  • Page 179 Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s – MPEG movie recording Note Sound is recorded in monaural. When the POWER switch is set to MEMORY The following functions do not work: – Wide mode – Digital zoom – SteadyShot function – SUPER NIGHTSHOT –...

  • Page 180: Recording A Picture From A Tape As A Moving Picture

    Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a moving picture on a “Memory Stick.” Your camcorder can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a moving picture on a “Memory Stick.”...

  • Page 181: Recording A Picture From A Tape As A Moving Picture

    Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture Notes •Sound recorded in 48 kHz is converted to one • in 32 kHz when recording images from a tape to “Memory Stick”s. •Sound recorded in stereo is converted to •...

  • Page 182: Recording A Moving Picture From Other Equipment

    Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture Recording a moving picture from other equipment Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Play back the recorded tape, or turn the TV on to see the desired programme.
  • Page 183 Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) DV OUT (optional)/ : Signal flow/ Note The “ ” may flash in the following instances. If this happens, eject and insert “Memory Stick” again, and record distortion-free images.

  • Page 184: Recording Edited Pictures As A Moving Picture - Digital Program Editing (On "Memory Stick"S)

    Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “Memory Stick”s) You can duplicate selected scenes (programmes) for editing onto “Memory Stick”s. Making the programme (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder. (2) Insert the tape for playback, and a “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 185 Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “Memory Stick”s) PLAY STOP PAUSE MENU V I D EO E D I T 0 : 0 8 : 5 5 : 0 6 V I D EO E D I T 0 : 0 8 : 5 8 : 0 6 V I D EO E D I T 0 : 1 0 : 0 1 : 2 3...
  • Page 186 Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “Memory Stick”s) To cancel erasing all programmes Select and decide upon RETURN with the control button in step 2. To cancel a programme you have set Press MENU. The programme is stored in memory until the tape is ejected.
  • Page 187 Recording edited pictures as a moving picture – Digital program editing (on “Memory Stick”s) Performing the programme (Dubbing a “Memory Stick”) (1) Select and decide upon VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings, then select and decide upon MEMORY with the control button. (2) Select and decide upon START, then select and decide upon EXECUTE with the control button.

  • Page 188: Copying Still Images From A Tape - Photo Save

    Copying still images from a tape – Photo save Using the search function, you can automatically take in only still images from tapes and record them on a “Memory Stick” in sequence. Before operation •Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder and rewind the tape.
  • Page 189 Copying still images from a tape – Photo save Image size of still images Image size is automatically set to 640 × 480. × When the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike your camcorder. As well do not turn the power off, eject a “Memory Stick”...

  • Page 190: Viewing A Still Image - Memory Photo Playback

    Viewing a still image – Memory photo playback You can play back still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back six images including moving pictures in order at a time by selecting the index screen. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 191 Viewing a still image – Memory photo playback Notes on the file name • •The directory number may not be displayed and only the file name may be displayed if the structure of the directory does not conform to • the DCF standard.
  • Page 192 Viewing a still image – Memory photo playback Playing back six recorded images at a time (index screen) You can play back six recorded images at a time. This function is especially useful when searching for a particular image. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.
  • Page 193 Viewing a still image – Memory photo playback Note When displaying the index screen, the number appears above each image. This indicates the order in which images are recorded on the “Memory Stick.” These numbers are different from the data file names (p. 149). Image data modified with your computers or shot with other equipment These files may not be displayed on the index...

  • Page 194: Viewing A Moving Picture - Mpeg Movie Playback

    Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback You can play back moving pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back six images including still images in order at a time by selecting the index screen. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 195 Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback Note You may not be able to play back images with your camcorder: – when playing back image data modified on your computers. – when playing back image data shot with other equipment.

  • Page 196: Viewing Images Using Computer

    Viewing images using computer You can view data recorded on the “Memory Stick” using your computer. Note Data recorded on the “Memory Stick” is stored in the following formats. Make sure that applications that support these file formats are installed on your computer. –...

  • Page 197: Installing The Usb Driver

    Viewing images using computer Notes •Operations are not guaranteed for either the • Windows or Macintosh environment if you connect two or more USB equipment to a single computer at the same time, or when using a hub. •Depending on the type of USB equipment that •...
  • Page 198 Viewing images using computer (6) Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder, connect the AC power adaptor and set the POWER switch to MEMORY. USB MODE appears on the LCD screen of your camcorder. Your computer recognises the camcorder, and the Windows Add Hardware Wizard starts.
  • Page 199 “System”, and click “Device Manager”. 5 Select “Other devices”. Select the device prefixed with the “?” mark and delete. Ex: (?)Sony Handycam 6 Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), and then disconnect the USB cable. 7 Restart your computer.
  • Page 200 (5) Move the following two files from the window opened in step 3 to the System Folder icon in the window opened in step 4 (drag and drop). •Sony Camcorder USB Driver •Sony Camcorder USB Shim (6) When “Put these items into the Extensions •...

  • Page 201: Viewing Images

    Viewing images using computer Viewing images For Windows users (1) Turn on the power of your computer and allow Windows to load. (2) Connect one end of USB cable to the (USB) jack on the camcorder and the other end to the USB connector on your computer.

  • Page 202: For Macintosh Users

    Viewing images using computer For Windows 2000 Professional/ Me users To unplug the USB cable or eject the “Memory Stick”, follow the procedure below. (1) Move the cursor to the “Unplug or Eject Hardware” icon on the Task Tray and click to cancel the applicable drive.
  • Page 203 Viewing images using computer Software •Depending on your application software, the • file size may increase when you open a still image file. •When you load an image modified using a retouch software from your computer to the • camcorder or when you directly modify the image on the camcorder, the image format will differ so a file error indicator may appear and you may be unable to open the file.

  • Page 204: Copying The Image Recorded On "Memory Stick"S To Tapes

    Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes You can copy images recorded on “Memory Stick” and record them to a tape. Before operation • Insert a tape for recording into your camcorder. • • Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. •...
  • Page 205 Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes During copying You cannot operate the following buttons: – MEMORY PLAY – MEMORY INDEX – MEMORY DELETE – MEMORY +/– – MEMORY MIX Note on the index screen You cannot record the index screen. If you press EDITSEARCH during pause mode Memory playback stops.

  • Page 206: Enlarging Still Images Recorded On "Memory Stick"S - Memory Pb Zoom

    Enlarging still images recorded on “Memory Stick”s – Memory PB ZOOM You can enlarge still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can select and view the desired part from the enlarged still image. Also you can copy the desired part of the enlarged still image to tapes or “Memory Stick”s.

  • Page 207: Memory Pb Zoom

    Enlarging still images recorded on “Memory Stick”s – Memory PB ZOOM In the PB ZOOM mode The digital effect function does not work. The PB ZOOM function is cancelled when the following buttons are pressed: – MENU – MEMORY PLAY –...

  • Page 208: Playing Back Images In A Continuous Loop - Slide Show

    Playing back images in a continuous loop – SLIDE SHOW You can automatically play back images in sequence. This function is useful especially when checking recorded images or during a presentation. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY.
  • Page 209 Playing back images in a continuous loop – SLIDE SHOW To view the recorded images on TV Connect your camcorder to a TV with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder before operation. If you change the “Memory Stick” during operation The slide show does not operate.

  • Page 210: Preventing Accidental Erasure - Image Protection

    Preventing accidental erasure – Image protection To prevent accidental erasure of important images, you can protect selected images. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.

  • Page 211: Deleting Images

    Deleting images You can delete images stored in a “Memory Stick.” You can delete all images or selected images. Deleting selected images Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.

  • Page 212: Deleting All The Images

    Deleting images Deleting all the images You can delete all the unprotected images in a “Memory Stick.” Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the right (unlock) position.

  • Page 213: Writing A Print Mark - Print Mark

    Writing a print mark – PRINT MARK You can specify the recorded still image to print out by putting marks. This function is useful for printing out still images later. Your camcorder conforms with the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard for specifying the still images to print out.

  • Page 214: Writing A Print Mark

    Writing a print mark – PRINT MARK If the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick” is set to LOCK You cannot write print marks on still images. Moving pictures You cannot write print marks on moving pictures. While the file name is flashing You cannot write a print mark on the still image.

  • Page 215: Using The Optional Printer

    Using the optional printer You can use the optional printer on your camcorder to print images on the print paper. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the printer. There are various ways of printing still images. The following, however, describes how to print by selecting in the menu on your camcorder.
  • Page 216 Using the optional printer You can make prints with the recording date and/or recording time. Select the desired mode in the menu settings. DATE DAY & TIME 4 12 : 00 4 7 2001 Images recorded in multi screen mode You cannot print images recorded in multi screen mode on sticker type print paper.

  • Page 217: Using The Network Function

    (Bluetooth) lamp/ BROWSER MENU On trademarks • •The BLUETOOTH trademarks are owned by their proprietor and used by Sony Corporation under license. • •All other product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Furthermore, “™”...

  • Page 218: Troubleshooting

    If you run into any problem using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorised Sony service facility. If “C:ss:ss” appears on the screen, the self-diagnosis display function has worked.
  • Page 219 Types of trouble and their solutions Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The picture is recorded in incorrect or • NIGHTSHOT is set to ON. c Set it to OFF (p. 39). unnatural colours. The picture appears too bright, and • NIGHTSHOT is set to ON in a bright place. c Set it to OFF (p.
  • Page 220 Types of trouble and their solutions In the recording and playback modes Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The battery pack is not installed, or is dead or nearly dead. The power does not turn on. c Install a charged battery pack (p. 18, 19). •...
  • Page 221 Types of trouble and their solutions When operating using the “Memory Stick” Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The POWER switch is not set to MEMORY. The “Memory Stick” does not c Set it to MEMORY (p. 158). function. • The “Memory Stick” is not inserted. c Insert a “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 222 (p. 94) • The camcorder is connected to DV equipment of other than Sony using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). c Set it to IR (p. 95). • Setting programme on a blank portion of the tape is attempted.
  • Page 223 CHG lamp flashes. c Install it properly (p. 18). • Something is wrong with the battery pack. c Please contact your Sony dealer or local authorised Sony service facility. • The USB cable was connected before installation of the USB Image data cannot be transferred by driver was completed.

  • Page 224: Self-Diagnosis Display

    After reconnecting the power source, operate your camcorder. • A malfunction that you cannot service has occurred. E:61:ss c Contact your Sony dealer or local authorised Sony service E:62:ss facility and inform them of the 5-digit code E:91:ss (example: E:61:10).

  • Page 225: Warning Indicators And Messages

    English Warning indicators and messages If indicators and messages appear on the screen, check the following: See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Warning indicators 100–0001 C:21:00 100-0001 Warning indicator as to file Warning indicator as to “Memory Stick” Slow flashing: formatting* •The file is corrupted.

  • Page 226: Warning Messages

    Warning indicators and messages Warning messages • CLOCK SET Set the date and time (p. 24). • FOR “InfoLITHIUM” Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 22). BATTERY ONLY • CLEANING CASSETTE** The video heads are dirty (p. 245). • FULL The tape cassette memory is full.* •...
  • Page 227 Если при эксплуатации видеокамеры встретились проблемы, используйте эту таблицу для поиска и устранения неисправностей. Если не удается решить проблему, отсоедините источник питания и обратитесь к дилеру Sony или в местное предприятие, уполномоченное проводить техническое обслуживание аппаратуры Sony. Если на экране появился знак “С: ss:ss”, это...
  • Page 228 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 229 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 230 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 231 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 232 • • • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 233 C:21:00 • ss ss • ss ss • • • • •...
  • Page 234 100–0001 C:21:00 100-0001 • • • • • C:21:00 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •...
  • Page 235 Предупреждающие индикаторы и сообщения Предупреждающие сообщения •CLOCK SET Установите время и дату (стр. 24). •FOR “InfoLITHIUM” Используйте батарейный блок “InfoLITHIUM” (стр. 22). BATTERY ONLY • CLEANING CASSETTE** Загрязнены видеоголовки (стр. 245). • FULL Кассетная память ленты заполнена.* • 16BIT Режим AUDIO MODE установлен в положение 16BIT (стр. 147).* Нельзя...

  • Page 236: Additional Information

    — Additional Information — Usable cassettes Selecting cassette types You can use the mini DV cassette only*. You cannot use any other 8 mm, Hi8, Digital8, VHS, VHSC, S-VHS, S-VHSC, Betamax or DV cassette. * There are two types of mini DV cassettes: with cassette memory and without cassette memory.

  • Page 237: Audio Mode

    Usable cassettes When you play back Playing back an NTSC-recorded tape You can play back tapes recorded in the NTSC video system on the LCD screen, if the tape is recorded in the SP mode. Copyright signal When you play back Using any other video camera recorder, you cannot record on tape that has recorded a copyright control signals for copyright protection...

  • Page 238: When You Play Back A Dual Sound Track Tape

    Usable cassettes When you play back a dual sound track tape When you play back a dual sound track tape recorded in a stereo system, set HiFi SOUND to the desired mode in the menu settings (p. 132). Sound from speaker HiFi Sound Playing back Playing back a dual Mode a stereo tape sound track tape...

  • Page 239: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack What is the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between the battery pack and an optional AC adaptor/charger. The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack calculates the power consumption according to the operating conditions of your camcorder, and displays the remaining battery time in minutes.
  • Page 240 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack Remaining battery time indicator • If the power may go off although the remaining battery time indicator indicates that the battery • pack has enough power to operate, charge the battery pack fully again so that the indication on the remaining battery time indicator is correct.

  • Page 241: About I.link

    About the Name “i.LINK” i.LINK is a more familiar term for IEEE 1394 data transport bus proposed by SONY, and is a trademark approved by many corporations. IEEE 1394 is an international standard standardised by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
  • Page 242 DV jacks, see page 93 and 113. This unit can also be connected to other i.LINK (DV) compatible equipment made by SONY (e.g. VAIO series personal computer) other than video equipment. Before connecting this unit to a personal...

  • Page 243: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Using your camcorder abroad Countries and areas where you can use network functions are restricted. For details, refer to the separate Network Operating Instructions (DCR- PC120E only). You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Your camcorder is a PAL system based...

  • Page 244: Moisture Condensation

    Maintenance information and precautions 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 condition, the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or your camcorder may not operate correctly.

  • Page 245: Maintenance Information And Precautions

    • If the above problem, [a], [b] or [c] occurs, clean the video heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM-12CLD cleaning cassette (optional). Check the picture and if the above problem persists, repeat cleaning.
  • Page 246 Maintenance information and precautions Removing dust from inside the viewfinder (1) Pull out the viewfinder in the direction of the arrow 1. Remove the two screws in the direction of the arrow 2 with a screwdriver (optional). Remove the eyecup in the direction of the arrow 3.
  • Page 247 •If any solid object or liquid get inside the • casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further. •Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be •...
  • Page 248 Maintenance information and precautions Camcorder care • •Remove the tape, and periodically turn on the power, operate the CAMERA and VCR sections and play back a tape for about three minutes when your camcorder is not to be used for a long time.
  • Page 249 Maintenance information and precautions About care and storage of the lens •Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft • cloth in the following instance: – When there are fingerprints on the lens surface – In hot or humid locations –...
  • Page 250 •If you touch the liquid, wash it off with water. •If the liquid get into your eyes, wash your eyes • with a lot of water and then consult a doctor. • If any problem occurs, unplug your camcorder and contact your nearest Sony dealer.

  • Page 251: Specifications

    English Specifications Colour temperature Video camera LCD screen Auto, HOLD (Hold), nIndoor recorder Picture (3 200 K), Outdoor (5 800 K) 6.2 cm (2.5 type) Minimum illumination 50 × 37 mm (2 × 1 1/2 in.) System 7 lx (lux) (F 1.8) Total dot number 0 lx (lux) (in the NightShot mode)* Video recording system...

  • Page 252: Battery Pack

    Specifications General Battery pack Power requirements Maximum output voltage 7.2 V (battery pack) DC 8.4 V 8.4 V (AC power adaptor) Output voltage Average power consumption DC 7.2 V (when using the battery pack) Capacity During camera recording using 8.5 Wh (1 180 mAh) Dimensions (approx.) 4.1 W 38.2 ×...
  • Page 253 Ω × × Ω Ω Ω Ω Ω Ω...
  • Page 254 · · × × × × × × × ×...

  • Page 255: Quick Reference

    Control button (p. 132) qd BATT RELEASE lever (p. 18) This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video products. When purchasing Sony video products, Sony recommends that you purchase accessories with this “GENUINE VIDEO ACCESSORIES” mark.
  • Page 256 Identifying the parts and controls MEMORY PLAY INDEX DELETE MEMORY PLAY STOP PAUSE qf MEMORY operation buttons MEMORY PLAY button (p. 190) MEMORY INDEX button (p. 192) MEMORY DELETE button (p. 211) MEMORY +/– buttons (p. 190) MEMORY MIX button (p. 171) qg MPEG BX/PB ZOOM button (p.
  • Page 257 Identifying the parts and controls wa Speaker ws LOCK switch (p. 29) wd POWER switch (p. 29) wf Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p. 33) wg START/STOP button (p. 29) wh Cassette lid (p. 27) wj OPEN/Z EJECT lever (p. 27) wk Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch).
  • Page 258 Identifying the parts and controls wl S VIDEO jack (p. 49, 91, 109, 169) e; MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack Connect an external microphone (optional). This jack also accepts a “plug-in-power” microphone. ea AUDIO/VIDEO jack es RESET button (p. 223) ed Grip strap ef Focus ring (p.
  • Page 259 Identifying the parts and controls el SUPER NIGHTSHOT button (p. 39) r; FOCUS button (p. 72) ra NETWORK button (p. 217) (DCR-PC120E only) rs BROWSER MENU/MENU button (p. 217/132) (DCR-PC120E)/MENU button (p. 132) (DCR- PC115E) rd EXPOSURE button (p. 71) rf BACK LIGHT button (p.
  • Page 260 Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl Zeiss lens which can reproduce a fine image. The lens for your camcorder was developed jointly by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation. It adopts the MTF measurement system for video camera and offers a quality as the Carl Zeiss lens.

  • Page 261: Remote Commander

    Identifying the parts and controls Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on your camcorder function identically to the buttons on your camcorder. 1 PHOTO button (p. 51, 158) 2 DISPLAY button (p. 45) 3 Memory control buttons (p.
  • Page 262 Sony VCRs to avoid remote control misoperation. If • you use another Sony VCR in the commander mode VTR 2, we recommend changing the commander mode or covering the sensor of the VCR with black paper.

  • Page 263: Operation Indicators

    Identifying the parts and controls Operation indicators LCD screen and Viewfinder/ 1 2 0 min S T B Y 0 : 1 2 : 3 4 – 1 2 min S T I L L Z E R O S E T 1 6 : 9 W I D E M E M O R Y N E G .
  • Page 264 Identifying the parts and controls qs Manual focus/Infinity (p. 72) qd Self-timer (p. 41, 56, 165) qf Recording mode (p. 37) qg HOLOGRAM AF (p. 164) qh STBY/REC (p. 29)/Video control mode (p. 47)/Image size (p. 155)/Image quality mode (p. 153) qj NIGHTSHOT (p.

  • Page 265: Index

    English Index A, B I, J, K, L AC power adaptor ..... 19 i.LINK ........241 Recording time ......21 Adjusting viewfinder ....33 Image protection ...... 210 Rec Review ......... 43 Audio dubbing ......118 Image quality mode ....153 Remaining battery time AUDIO MIX ......
  • Page 268 Sony Corporation Printed in Japan...

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Dcr-pc120e

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