Page 1 Sony Corporation Communication System Solutions Network Company Printed in Japan 2000.08.13 ©2000 HDW-F900 (UCJ/SY) 3-203-941-02 (1) HD CAMCORDER HDW-F900 [English] OPERATION MANUAL 1st Edition (Revised 1)
Page 3 WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. For the customers in U.S.A. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Page 4 For the customers in Europe This product with the CE marking complies with the EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the European Community. Compliance with this directive implies conformity to the following European standards: • EN55103-1: Electromagnetic Interference (Emission) •...
Page 5 Für Kunden in Europa Dieses Produkt besitzt die CE-Kennzeichnung und erfüllt die EMV-Direktive (89/336/EEC) der EG-Kommission. Die Erfüllung dieser Direktive bedeutet Konformität für die folgenden Europäischen Normen: • EN55103-1: Elektromagnetische Interferenz (Emission) • EN55103-2: Elektromagnetische Empfindlichkeit (Immunität) Dieses Produkt ist für den Einsatz unter folgenden elektromagnetischen Bedingungen ausgelegt: E1 (Wohnbereich), E2 (kommerzieller und in beschränktem Maße industrieller Bereich), E3...
Page 6: Table Of Contents
Table of Contents Chapter 1 Overview Features ... 1-1 1-1-1 Camera Features ... 1-1 1-1-2 VTR Features ... 1-4 Example of System Configuration ... 1-6 Precautions ... 1-8 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls Power Supply ... 2-1 Accessory Attachments ...
Page 7 3-3-2 Checking the Recording on the Color Video Monitor — Playback in Color ... 3-14 Tele-File ... 3-15 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Adjusting the Black Balance and the White Balance ... 4-1 4-1-1 Adjusting the Black Balance ... 4-2 4-1-2 Adjusting the White Balance ...
Page 8 4-10 Using the Memory Stick ... 4-82 4-10-1 Handling the Memory Stick ... 4-82 4-10-2 Using Data on the Memory Stick ... 4-84 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Power Supply ... 5-1 5-1-1 Using a BP-L60A Battery Pack ... 5-1 5-1-2 Avoiding Breaks in Operation Due to Dead Batteries ...
Page 9 Chapter 6 Maintenance Testing the Camcorder Before Shooting ... 6-1 6-1-1 Preparations for Testing ... 6-1 6-1-2 Testing the Camera ... 6-2 6-1-3 Testing the VTR ... 6-6 Maintenance ... 6-10 6-2-1 Cleaning the Video Heads ... 6-10 6-2-2 Cleaning the Viewfinder ... 6-10 Operation Warnings ...
Page 10: Chapter 1 Overview
1-1 Features The HDW-F900 HD Camcorder combines a HD color video camera, of which the effective picture elements are 1920(H) x 1080(V) and which uses 2/3-inch FIT an HDCAM portable videocassette recorder. The camcorder allows you to perform recording and playback with various formats, covering 50I, 30P, 29.97P, 25P, 24P and 23.98P as well as 60I and 59.94I formats The...
Page 11 • Setup data specified by video engineers, including the various detail settings, can be stored in the camcorder itself and on a memory stick as a reference file, and then can be recalled. It is possible to shorten time for setting with duplicating the stored reference file to the other cameras through the memory stick.
Page 12 • Correction value to use a lens extender and for each lens can be stored as a lens file, and then can be recalled. It is possible to shorten time for adjustment when replacing the lens. • A high-performance viewfinder is adjustable forward, backward, and sideways, and has a full range of auxiliary equipment.
Page 13: Vtr Features
1-1-2 VTR Features The VTR features of this camcorder are described below. • Use of the HDCAM format allows high performance HD digital recording and playback while preserving the same ease of use as conventional camcorder equipment. Also, recording and playback are allowed in any one of 8 different formats that the camera section supports.
Page 14 • Optional long-life battery packs are available. • Pressing the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on the lens ensures recording continuity from the very next frame. • Two analog audio input channels and the microphone can be recorded at the same time.
Page 15: Example Of System Configuration
1-2 Example of System Configuration The diagram below shows a typical configuration of the camcorder for ENG and EFP. For more information about the fittings, connections, or use of additional equipment and accessories, see Chapter 5 as well as the operation manuals for the connected equipment.
Page 16 Camera adaptor HDCA-901 for the input of the audio channels 3 and 4 and the HD-SDI output Power source Battery AC power BC-L100 supply Battery 100V AC Charger BP-L60A AC-550 Battery Pack AC Adaptor Audio signal source External microphone C-74, etc. CAC-12 Microphone Holder Audio equipment...
Page 17: Precautions
Before storing the camcorder for a long period Remove the battery pack. Use and storage locations Store in a level, ventilated place. Avoid using or storing the camcorder in the following places. • Places subject to temperature extremes • Very damp places •...
Page 18: Chapter 2 Locations And Functions Of Parts And Controls
Attach a BP-L60A battery pack. 2 DC IN (external power input) connector (XLR type, 4-pin, male) To operate the HDW-F900 using an AC power supply, connect an AC- 550 AC Adaptor with the DC output cable supplied with the adaptor.
Page 19 3 BREAKER button If excessive current flows within the unit, the breaker is tripped automatically to shut off the power supply and protect the equipment. After performing internal checks or adjustments, use a pointed object such as a pen to press down lightly on this button. If there is no problem, the power will again be supplied.
Page 20: Accessory Attachments
2-2 Accessory Attachments 1 Shoulder strap posts Attach the supplied shoulder strap to these posts. 2 Light shoe Attach an optional accessory such as a video light to this shoe. 3 Lens mount (special bayonet mount) Use this for mounting the lens. Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls Lens cable clamp Accessory attachments...
Page 21 6 Tripod mount When using the unit on a tripod, attach the supplied tripod adaptor. 7 LENS connector (12-pin) Fit the lens cable to this connector. Contact your Sony representative for more information about the lens you are using. 8 Shoulder pad You can move the shoulder pad forwards or backwards by loosening the two screws.
Page 22: Audio Functions
2-3 Audio Functions 1 Microphone This is a super-cardioid directional microphone with an external power supply (+48 V) system. You can use it as an interview microphone by connecting it to an extension cable (not supplied). 2 MIC IN (microphone input) connector (XLR type, 3-pin, female) The supplied microphone connects to this connector.
Page 23 ADVANCE PRESET REGEN Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls CH-1 CH-2 LEVEL SHIFT • • F-RUN AUTO MANUAL R-RUN AUDIO SELECT AUDIO IN DIAG REAL FRONT TIME REAR CUE IN CH-1 CH-2 Audio functions (2)
Page 24 4 LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) (audio channel 1 and channel 2 recording level) controls These controls adjust the audio levels of channels 1 and 2 when audio input is from the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connectors and the AUDIO SELECT switches are set to MANUAL. 5 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) (audio channel-1 and channel-2 adjustment method select) switches These switches select the audio level adjustment method for each of...
Page 25 MUTE: Does not record any input signals in channels 3 and 4. For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual. With the HDCA-901 (not supplied) connected to the camcorder, you can record separate sounds in audio channels 3 and 4.
Page 26 Audio functions (3) qa ALARM volume control This control adjusts the speaker or earphone alarm volume. At the minimum position, no sound can be heard. Minimum Maximum ALARM volume control Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls...
Page 27 The internal volume control can be adjusted so that the alarm is audible even if the ALARM volume control is at the minimum position. For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual. qs MONITOR volume control This control adjusts the speaker or earphone volume for sounds other than the alarm sound.
Page 28 qf Built-in speaker During recording, the speaker can be used for monitoring the E-E sound, and during playback for monitoring playback sound. The speaker also sounds alarms to reinforce visual warnings. If an earphone is plugged into to the EARPHONE jack, the speaker sound is automatically cut off.
Page 29 You can monitor the E-E sound during recording and playback sound during playback. Plugging an earphone into the jack automatically cuts off the built-in speaker, and you hear the alarms about the camcorder's operation and status through the earphone. qh Tap for measure hook This is the hole for the M3 screw (effective screw length: 6mm) located at the position of the flange focal length.
Page 30: Shooting And Recording/Playback Functions
The viewfinder lets you to view the camera image in black and white while shooting the picture and also see the playback picture from the VTR. It also displays various warnings and messages related to the settings or operating conditions of the camcorder, a zebra pattern zone marker , and center marker...
Page 31 2 BRIGHT (brightness) control This control adjusts the picture brightness on the viewfinder screen. It has no effect on the camera output signal. 3 CONTRAST control This control adjusts the picture contrast on the viewfinder screen. It has no effect on the camera output signal. 4 PEAKING control This control adjusts the sharpness of the picture on the viewfinder screen to make focusing easier.
Page 32 OFF: No zebra pattern is displayed. MOMENT: The zebra pattern is displayed and stays for 5 to 6 seconds. The zebra pattern is factory set to indicate picture areas where the video level is approximately 70%. The setup menu can be used to specify that areas where the video level is 100% and above are to be displayed at the same time.
Page 33 Use this lever to move the viewfinder forward or backward. qa Cameraman tally indicator This indicator lights while the camcorder is operating. Slide the window open when you shoot, keeping your eye away from the viewfinder. This indicator flashes when the battery level is running low or the tape is nearing its end.
Page 34 Shooting and recording/playback functions (3) qd FILTER selector This selector is a dual knob that selects the most appropriate filter to match the light source illuminating the subject. The outer knob selects the color temperature of the CC (Color Conversion) filter, and the inner knob selects the type of ND (Neutral Density) filter.
Page 35 The relationships between the selector settings and filter selections as well as examples of filters for different shooting conditions are given below. FILTER selector (outer) setting and CC filter selection FILTER selector (outer) setting a) A type of special effect filter. Generates a cross-hair light ray on a highlighted portion.
Page 36 MIC/MENU knob sets the iris override (±1 iris in 1/4 iris steps). The iris override setting returns to 0 when you turn off the camcorder, then on again. qh AUTO W/B BAL (automatic white/black balance adjustment) switch This switch activates the white balance and black balance automatic adjustment functions.
Page 37 qj GAIN selector This selector switches the gain of the video amplifier to match the lighting conditions during shooting. The gains corresponding to the L, M, and H settings are selected from the setup menu before use. The factory settings are L = 0 dB, M = 6 dB, and H = 12 dB. When this selector is adjusted, the new setting will be indicated on the setting change/adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder screen for about 3 seconds.
Page 38 FILTER selector (outer knob) is at the same position as it was when this WHITE BAL switch was adjusted, the stored value is called from memory, and the camcorder automatically adjusts itself to that value. When this switch is adjusted, the new setting will be indicated on the setting change/adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder screen for about 3 seconds.
Page 39 Shooting and recording/playback functions (4) w; GENLOCK IN (genlock input) connector (BNC type) This connector inputs an HD reference signal when the camera is to be genlocked or when the time code is to be synchronized with external equipment. Use the MAINTENANCE menu to adjust the genlock H- phase (phase of Horizontal sync signal).
Page 40 ). To include the text on the viewfinder screen with the output signal, push the DISPLAY switch to MENU while pushing the MENU switch to CANCEL. Text output is cancelled when you turn the camcorder off, then on again. 2-23...
Page 41 Shooting and recording/playback functions (6) 2-24 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls Opening the cover Press on the tab.
Page 42 SAVE, the VTR SAVE indicator in the viewfinder lights. STBY: Standby mode. Recording starts as soon as you press the VTR START button. Avoid allowing the camcorder to remain in STBY (standby) mode for a long time. wg EJECT (cassette eject) button Press this button to eject or load a cassette.
Page 43 wj F FWD (fast forward) button and indicator Press this button to fast forward the tape. The indicator lights during fast forward. wk PLAY (playback) button and indicator Press this button to view the recorded picture in the viewfinder or on the color video monitor.
Page 44: Setup Menu Operating Section
2-5 Setup Menu Operating Section Setup menu operating section 1 Memory stick compartment Open the cover of the memory stick compartment. Insert the memory stick (not supplied) with the notch facing upward and the label facing toward you into the slot. 2 MIC/MENU knob Use this knob to change the page selection or a setting within the setup menu.
Page 45 4 DISPLAY switch Use this switch to change the display on the viewfinder screen. ON: A message or character indicating the camcorder's settings or operation status is displayed on the viewfinder screen. OFF: The display on the viewfinder screen disappears.
Page 46: Time Code System
2-6 Time Code System Time code functions (1) 1 GENLOCK IN (genlock input) connector (BNC type) This connector inputs an HD reference signal when the camera is to be genlocked or when the time code is to be synchronized with external equipment.
Page 47 3 TC OUT (time code output) connector (BNC type) To synchronize the time code of an external VTR with that of the camcorder, connect this connector to the time code input lock connector of the external VTR. 2-30...
Page 48 WARNING HOLD RESET ADVANCE PRESET F-RUN R-RUN REGEN DIAG Time code functions (3) Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls DISPLAY U-BIT LIGHT CH-1 CH-2 LEVEL SHIFT • • AUTO MANUAL AUDIO SELECT AUDIO IN REAL FRONT TIME REAR CUE IN CH-1...
Page 49 4 HOLD (display hold) button Pressing this button instantly freezes the time data displayed in the counter display section. (The time code generator continues normal operation.) Pressing this button again releases the hold. One use of this feature is to determine the exact time of a particular shot. When the HOLD button is activated, the time data is dsiplayed in the following format: See Section 2-8 “Warnings and Indications on the Display Panel”...
Page 50 Regardless of the setting of the F-RUN/SET/R- RUN switch, the camcorder operates in R-RUN mode. For more information, see “Make the time code continuous” on page 4-20.
Page 51 qa DF/NDF (drop frame/non-drop frame) switch This switch selects whether the time code advances in drop frame mode or non-drop frame mode. This switch is effective only when the format is set to one of 29.97 PsF, 30 PsF, 59.94 I or 60 I in the MULT FORMAT page of the MAINTENANCE menu.
Page 52: Warnings And Indications
2-7 Warnings and Indications The camcorder supplies you visual information and warnings by means of its indicators without you having to use the speaker, earphone or viewfinder. PRESET F-RUN R-RUN REGEN DIAG REAL TIME Warning and indication functions Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls...
Page 53 LOW: The TALLY indicator gets dimmer. 3 DIAG (self-diagnostics) button Pressing this button when the VTR is stopped switches the camcorder to self-diagnostics mode. In self-diagnostics mode, it is possible to carry out a display panel test, a VTR test, or a camera test and display the test result.
Page 54 6 WARNING indicator This indicator lights up or flashes when there is a fault in the VTR. See Section 6-3 “Operation Warnings” (page 6-14) for more information about the relationships between the operation of the indicator and the meanings of the indications.
Page 55: Warnings And Indications On The Display Panel
2-8 Warnings and Indications on the Display Panel Tape status, battery status, and level indicators DIAG PB VITC NDF EXT-LK TAPE BATT SERVO Battery status indicator BATT Nearly dead: “BATT” flashes. Dead battery (battery must be charged): “BATT” and “E” flash. Tape status indicator TAPE Close to end: “TAPE”...
Page 56 VTR operation status and status indicators Lights in the self-diagnostic mode (testing display panel, camera, and VTR). For more information, refer to the Maintenance Manual. Warning indicators RF: Lights if the recording heads are clogged. SERVO: Lights if the servo motor fails. HUMID: Lights if condensation is on the drum.
Page 57: Time Code Displays
2-40 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls Lights in non-drop frame mode. Lights when the camcorder is synchronized with an external time code. Lights when the time code generator is on hold. OVER...
Page 58 Relationships between the REAL TIME, F-RUN/SET/R-RUN, and DISPLAY switch settings and the time counter displays The time counter display is determined first by the REAL TIME switch setting, then by the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch setting, and finally by the DISPLAY switch setting. Switch settings related to time code and displayed information REAL TIME F-RUN/SET/R-RUN...
Page 59: Indicators On The Viewfinder
Not used in the camcorder. 2 BATT indicator Starts flashing when the battery voltage supplied to the camcorder drops below the minimum level, and stays lit when the battery is exhausted. To prevent interruption during operation, replace the battery as soon as this indicator starts flashing.
Page 60 VTR SAVE/STBY switch to SAVE. (warning) indicator Lights up when the settings of the camcorder are changed from the ones set on the “IND” page of the OPERATION menu. For details, see “4-7-2 Selecting the Items for Which the “!” IND is to Light” on page 4-41.
Page 61 2-44 Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls...
Page 62: Chapter 3 Recording And Playback
This section describes the procedure for loading and unloading a cassette. See “Specifications VTR Section ”(page A-3) for information about the cassettes you can use in the camcorder. 3-1-1 Loading and Unloading a Cassette Loading a cassette Turn on the POWER switch.
Page 63 Press the EJECT button. The cassette lid will open. Check that there is no slack in the tape. Then slide in the cassette until it clicks into position and close the cassette lid completely by pressing near the engraved “PUSH". Window outward.
Page 64: Unloading A Cassette
Checking the tape for slack Pressing in the reels lightly, turn them gently with your fingers in the directions shown below. If the reels will not move, there is no slack. Checking the tape for slack Unloading a cassette With the power supply on, press the EJECT button to open the cassette lid.
Page 65: Preventing Accidental Erasure
Unloading a cassette manually If the battery voltage drops below about 10.5 V, take out the cassette manually as illustrated below. Cassette lid 1 Turn the power off. 2 Open this rubber cover. 3 Pushing on the screw inside with a screwdriver, turn the screw counterclockwise until the cassette lid opens.
Page 66: Recording
This section describes the basic procedure for shooting and recording. Before a shooting session, ensure that the camcorder is functioning properly. For more information, see Section 6-1 “Testing the Camcorder Before Shooting” (page 6-1). Turning on the camcorder and loading a cassette Follow the procedure below.
Page 67 Check that there are no obstructions near the cassette lid. Then press the EJECT button to open the cassette lid. After checking the points below, load the cassette and close the cassette lid. • The cassette is not write-protected. • There is no slack in the tape. Basic procedure for shooting: from adjusting the black balance and white balance to stopping recording After turning on the power and loading a cassette, set the switches and...
Page 68 Shooting Follow the procedure below. Basic procedure for shooting: from adjusting the black balance and white balance to stopping recording Push the AUTO W/B BAL switch to BLK to adjust the black balance. For detailed information on how to adjust the black balance, see “4-1-1 Adjusting the Black Balance”...
Page 69 When the black balance and white balance settings are already in memory: Set the WHITE BAL switch to A or B. When the white balance setting is not in memory and you do not have enough time to adjust the white balance: Set the WHITE BAL switch to the PRST position.
Page 70: Continuous Recording
3-2-2 Continuous Recording If the camcorder is in the recording pause mode, simply pressing the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on the lens continues recording at exactly the next frame. In other cases, you first need to position the tape at an appropriate point.
Page 71: If You Turn Off The Power During A Recording Pause
4 seconds in length. Press the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on the lens to start recording. 3-10...
Page 72 Note If the tape is recorded with a format which is different from the format for the camcorder selected on the MULT FORMAT page of the MAINTENANCE menu, trecording may not continu smoothly. Noise and so on occurs at the point where recordings are continued.
Page 73 Press the RET button. The tape will rewind and will be positioned at the desired point to continue recording. Press the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on the lens to start recording. 3-12 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback...
Page 74: Checking The Recording - Playback
Example: When the format of the recorded tape is 59.94I and the format of the camcorder is set to 23.98 PsF, the message “59 - - 23” appears. Chapter 3 Recording and Playback...
Page 75: Checking The Last Three Seconds Of The Recording Recording Review
If you hold the RET button down longer, at most 10 seconds of the tape is rewound and played back. After playback, the camcorder is ready to start recording again. By assigning the LENS RET function to the assignable switch(es) using the OPERATION menu, you can use the assignable switch(es) in the same way as the RET button on the lens.
Page 76: Tele-File
3-4 Tele-File The VTR section is compatible with the Tele-File memory label system. This system allows you to record the recording start timecode and shot markers onto the MLB-1M 100 memory label (not supplied). Follow the procedure below to record the starting timecode and shot markers.
Page 77 3-16 Chapter 3 Recording and Playback...
Page 78: Adjusting The Black Balance And The White Balance
The black balance will require adjustment in the following cases. • When the camcorder is first used • When the camcorder has not been used for a long time • When the camcorder is used under conditions in which the surrounding temperature has changed greatly •...
Page 79: Adjusting The Black Balance
4-1-1 Adjusting the Black Balance In automatic black balance mode, adjustments are performed in the following order: clamp level, black set, and black balance. Manual black balance adjustment can be selected from the setup menu. Follow the procedure below to adjust the black balance. Set the switches as shown in the figure below.
Page 80 Push the AUTO W/B BAL switch to BLK and release the switch. AUTO W/B BAL switch The switch returns to the center position, and the adjustment is completed. During adjustment, the following message is displayed on the viewfinder screen. The black balance adjustment ends in a few seconds with the message “ABB:OK”...
Page 81 If the error message occurs again, an internal check is necessary. Refer to the Maintenance Manual for information about this internal check. Black balance memory Values stored in memory are retained even when the camcorder power is turned off. Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording...
Page 82: Adjusting The White Balance
4-1-2 Adjusting the White Balance Follow the procedure below to automatically adjust the white balance. Adjust the switches as shown in the figure below. GAIN switch: Set as low as possible. If the setting on the GAIN selector or WHITE BAL switch is changed, a message reporting the set position appears for about 3 seconds in the setting change and adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder screen.
Page 83 Adjust the FILTER selector to suit the lighting conditions. ND filter Clear 1/4 ND 1/16 ND 1/64 ND If the setting of the FILTER selector is changed, a message reporting the setting appears for about 3 seconds in the setting change and adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder screen.
Page 84 Note Make sure there are not bright spots in the rectangle. Adjust the lens iris. If the lens is manually adjusted, adjust it as appropriate. If the lens has an automatic iris, set the automatic/manual switch on the lens to automatic. Push the AUTO W/B BAL switch to WHT and release the switch.
Page 85 FILTER selector (outer knob) position. White balance memory Values stored in memory are retained even when the camcorder power is turned off. 1) Hunting Repeated brightening and darkening of an image, resulting from repeated response to automatic iris control.
Page 86: Setting The Electronic Shutter
4-2 Setting the Electronic Shutter This section describes the shutter modes that can be used with the electronic shutter of the camcorder, and describes the procedure for selecting the shutter speed and mode. 4-2-1 Shutter Modes The shutter modes that can be used with the electronic shutter and the shutter speeds that can be selected are listed below.
Page 87: Selecting The Shutter Mode And Speed
Once the shutter speed is selected, it is retained even when the camcorder power is turned off. Follow the procedure described in “Selecting the Display Items” (page 4-39) to set SHUTT to ON from the VF DISPLAY page of the OPERATION menu.
Page 88 SHUTTER selector The current shutter setting appears for about 3 seconds in the setting change and adjustment progress message display area of the viewfinder screen. (e.g., :SS:1/250) Before the message from step 2 disappears, push the SHUTTER selector to SEL again and repeat until the desired mode or speed appears.
Page 89 4-9. When selecting ECS mode in step 3 You can change the speed by rotating the MIC/MENU knob on the front of the camcorder. To select S-EVS mode You can select S-EVS mode and change the speed with the PAINT menu.
Page 90: Adjusting The Audio Level
4-3 Adjusting the Audio Level If you set the AUDIO SELECT CH-1/CH-2 switches to AUTO, the input levels for the corresponding channels are adjusted automatically. Follow the procedure below to manually adjust the input levels for both audio channels. Manually adjusting the audio levels of the audio input from the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connectors Follow the procedure described below to adjust the audio levels of the audio input from the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connectors, which is...
Page 91 Set the AUDIO IN switch which corresponds to the channels to be adjusted among input signals connected to AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors to REAR. To adjust channels 1 and 2, set the both AUDIO IN switches to REAR. Set the AUDIO SELECT switches corresponding to the channel selected in step 1 to MANUAL.
Page 92: Manually Adjusting The Audio Level Of The Front Microphone
Manually adjusting the audio level of the front microphone You can adjust the audio level input from the front microphone for channels 1 and 2 by using the MIC/MENU knob on the front of the camcorder. ADVANCE PRESET REGEN DIAG...
Page 93 If it goes on, the audio level is too high. Note The LEVEL controls on the left side of the camcorder do not function when the AUDIO IN switch is set to FRONT.
Page 94: Setting The Time Data
4-4 Setting the Time Data 4-4-1 Setting the User Bits By setting the user bits (up to 8 hexadecimal digits), you can record user information such as the date, time, or scene number on the time code track. Follow the procedure below to set the user bits. •...
Page 95 Set the user bits by using the SHIFT and ADVANCE buttons. SHIFT: Selects a digit to set. Each time you press the button, the flashing digit moves one column to the right. ADVANCE: Increments the value of the flashing digit. Hexadecimal digits A to F are displayed as follows: Hexadecimal Display...
Page 96: Setting The Time Code
4-4-2 Setting the Time Code Follow the procedure below to set the time code. • • WARNING HOLD RESET ADVANCE PRESET REGEN Set the DISPLAY switch to TC. Set the PRESET/REGEN switch to PRESET. Set the REAL TIME switch to ON or OFF. Set the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch to SET.
Page 97 Set the DF/NDF switch as necessary. DF: Drop frame mode NDF: Non-drop frame mode Note The DF/NDF switch is effective only when one of 59.94 I, 60 I, 29.97 PsF and 30 PsF is selected as format in the MULT FORMAT page of the MAINTENANCE manual.
Page 98: Entering The Real Time In The Vitc
Press the RET button on the lens. This reads the previous recording and synchronizes the internal time code generator, thus allowing the new time code recorded to follow on consecutively. Or press the assignable switch if it is assigned to the LENS RET function on the OTHERS page of the OPERATION menu.
Page 99 Set the REAL TIME switch to SET. Use the ADVANCE and SHIFT buttons to set the real time. Set the REAL TIME switch to ON. The real time is recorded in the VITC, and the user bits that were set are recorded in the LTC.
Page 100: Synchronizing The Time Code
4-4-4 Synchronizing the Time Code You can synchronize the internal time code generator of this camcorder with an external generator for the regeneration of an external time code. You can also synchronize the time code generators of external VTRs with the internal generator of this camcorder.
Page 101 Example 2: Interconnecting a number of camcorders for time code synchronization Master camcorder Camcorder to be synchronized Camcorder to be synchronized 4-24 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording MONITOR OUT Y channel TC OUT TC IN GENLOCK IN TC OUT...
Page 102: Procedure For Time Code Synchronization
Procedure for time code synchronization Follow the procedure below to synchronize the time code. Synchronizing the time code Turn the POWER switch to ON. Set the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch to F-RUN. Set the PRESET/REGEN switch to PRESET. • Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording •...
Page 103 When the time code is synchronized, only the time data is synchronized with the external time code value. Therefore, the user bits can have their own settings for each camcorder. You can also synchronize the user bits with external user bit data.
Page 104 Releasing the time code synchronization First disconnect the external time code, then set the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch to R-RUN. Changing the power supply from the battery pack to an external power supply during time code synchronization To maintain a continuous power supply, connect the external power supply to the DC IN connector before removing the battery pack.
Page 105: Setup Menu Display On The Viewfinder Screen
MIC/MENU knob DISPLAY switch TOP menu The menus of the camcorder are classified into categories according to the frequency of use, number of users and so on. The TOP menu allows you to select the desired menu categories. 4-28...
Page 106 MIC/MENU knob. Note The contents of the TOP menu will differ according to IF circuit board switch settings inside the HDW-F900 camcorder. Refer to the Maintenance Manual for more information. The TOP menu has the following submenus.
Page 107 Although you can also use an external remote control panel or master setup unit to set the items on this menu, this menu is effective when using the camcorder by itself outdoors. This menu allows you to perform almost the same settings as those of the PAINT menu of the MSU-700A/750 Master Setup Unit (not supplied).
Page 108: Basic Use Of The Setup Menu
4-5-1 Basic Use of the Setup Menu MIC/MENU knob Switch the DISPLAY switch from OFF to MENU. The OPERATION menu will be displayed. DISPLAY switch MENU switch Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording (Continued) 4-31...
Page 109 Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the desired page appears. Push the MIC/MENU knob. The arrow ( ) points to the currently selected item. Turn the MIC/MENU knob to move the arrow ( ) to the item you want to set. Push the MIC/MENU knob.
Page 110 Or, when the arrow mark is placed at a position other than the page number, push the MENU switch to CANCEL. The camcorder is in page selecting mode. Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the desired page appears. To end menu operations Turn the DISPLAY switch to OFF.
Page 111: Layout Of The Status Display On The Viewfinder Screen
Viewfinder Screen The viewfinder screen displays not only the video picture but also characters and messages indicating the camcorder settings and operating status, a center marker, a safety zone marker, etc. When the DISPLAY switch is set to ON, the items for which an “ON”...
Page 112 W:P: Displayed when the WHITE BAL switch is set to PRST. indicator This indicator lights when the setting of the camcorder is changed from the normal setting to other settings which are different from ones set on the “!” IND page of the OPERATION menu.
Page 113 8 Power voltage This indicator indicates the power voltage. 9 Self-diagnostics CAM ?: When a fault has been detected in the position related to the camaera, this indicator appears as a lighting question mark. VTR ?: When a fault has been detected in the position related to the VTR, this indicator appears as a lighting question mark.
Page 114 qd Audio level These indicators indicate the level of audio channel 1 and channel 2. The peak indication of the VTR level meter is related as follows to the audio level when an 1-kHz sine wave is input. Audio channel 1 level indicator Audio channel 2 level indicator...
Page 115: Setup Using The Operation Menu
4-7 Setup Using the OPERATION Menu To set up or adjust the camcorder, use the OPERATION menu. The items that can be set up or adjusted by using the OPERATION menu are listed in the table below. Items that can be set up or adjusted by using the OPERATION menu...
Page 116: Selecting The Display Items
4-7-1 Selecting the Display Items To select the items to be displayed on the viewfinder screen from the VF DISPLAY page of the OPERATION menu, turn on or off the indication next to each item. Follow the procedure below to select the items to be displayed on the viewfinder screen.
Page 117 You can select the following items to be displayed on the viewfinder screen. Item ZOOM IRIS WHITE D5600K GAIN SHUTT BATT TAPE AUDIO MESSAGE a) Three settings are available: ON: Displays OFF: Does not display 3S: Displays the new setting for about 3 seconds when the setting is changed from the current setting.
Page 118: Selecting The Items For Which The '!' Ind Is To Light
To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-7-2 Selecting the Items for Which the '!' IND is...
Page 119 Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the '!' IND page appears, and push the MIC/MENU knob. The current setting of an item appears to the right of the item. The above '!' IND page indicates the default settings. All items have been set to ON at the factory. However, you can change the normal condition as to whether the '!' indicator lights or does not light at the NORMAL column.
Page 120 The following table shows the brief explanation about the default settings displayed on the '!' IND page. Item Contents Goes off when the ND filter 1 is selected. Goes off when the CC filter B is selected. WHITE Goes off when the WHITE BAL switch (white balance automatic adjustment memory) is set to the position B.
Page 121 1 Turn the MIC/MENU knob to move the arrow ( ) to the item you want to ses in the IND column, and push the MIC/MENU knob. The arrow ( ) changes to a question mark (?). 2 Set the setting to ON or OFF by turning the MIC/MENU knob, and push the MIC/MENU knob.
Page 122 To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording...
Page 123: Setting The Marker Display
4-7-3 Setting the Marker Display Use the MARKER page of the OPERATION menu to specify the display setting for the various markers and to turn the mask function which dims all areas except the markers on or off. Follow the procedure below to select the marker display. Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU.
Page 124 You can select displaying or not-displaying for the following item. Item MARKER CENTER SAFETY ZONE EFFECT ASPECT MODE MASK VAR WIDTH a) The DISPLAY/ASPECT switch on the viewfinder allows you to display or not display the corresponding item. The menu settings are also changed according to the operation of this switch.
Page 125 To continue setting other items, repeat step 3. To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-48...
Page 126: Setting The Gain Selector Values
4-7-4 Setting the GAIN Selector Values Before using the camcorder, use the GAIN SW page of the OPERATION menu to set the gains corresponding to the L, M, and H positions of the GAIN selector, which switches the gain of the video amplifier.
Page 127 3. To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-50...
Page 128: Setting The Viewfinder
4-7-5 Setting the Viewfinder Use the ZEBRA/VF DTL page of the OPERATION menu to select items related to the viewfinder. Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU. Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the ZEBRA/VF DTL page appears, and push the MIC/MENU knob. The ZEBRA/VF DTL page appears.
Page 129 To continue setting other items, repeat steps 3 and 4. To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-52...
Page 130: Setting The Automatic Iris
4-7-6 Setting the Automatic Iris Use the AUTO IRIS page of the OPERATION menu to select items related to the automatic iris. Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU. Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the AUTO IRIS page appears, and push the MIC/MENU knob. The AUTO IRIS page appears.
Page 131 The shaded parts in the illustrations below indicate the area where light detection occurs. Note The override returns to 0 when you turn the camcorder off, then on again. Turn the MIC/MENU knob to move the arrow ( ) to the item you want to set, and push the MIC/MENU knob.
Page 132: Setting The Battery
To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-7-7 Setting the Battery Use the BATT ALARM page of the OPERATION menu to select the type of battery that is currently being used.
Page 133 Item BATT TYPE BEFORE END DC IN TYPE BEFORE END a) When AC ADP is selected, “ - - ” appears at the position where the voltage should be displayed, that is, no values are displayed. Turn the MIC/MENU knob to move the arrow ( ) to the item you want to set, and push the MIC/MENU knob.
Page 134: Setting The D5600K Mode And Assignable Switches
To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-7-8 Setting the D5600K Mode and Assignable...
Page 135 Item D5600K ASSIGNABLE 1 ASSIGNABLE 2 Turn the MIC/MENU knob to move the arrow ( ) to the item you want to set, and push the MIC/MENU knob. The arrow ( ) changes to a question mark (?). Turn the MIC/MENU knob to change the desired setting, and push the MIC/MENU knob.
Page 136 To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording...
Page 137 4-7-9 Saving or Reading Setup Data to or from the Memory Stick Use the OPERATOR FILE page of the OPERATION menu to save the setup data of OPERATION menu pages 1 to 8 to or read the data from a memory stick.
Page 138: Selecting The Lens File
4-7-10 Selecting the Lens File Use the Lens File page of the OPERATION menu to change the lens file according to the lens in use. Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU. Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the LENS FILE page appears, and push the MIC/MENU knob.
Page 139 To end menu operations, turn the DISPLAY switch to ON. The menu disappears from the viewfinder screen, and the display indicating the current status of the camcorder appears along the top and bottom of the viewfinder screen. 4-62...
Page 140: Paint Menu
4-8 Paint Menu The PAINT menu contains various detail adjustment items such as white clipping. It also enables you to save up to five sets of detail-adjusted data customized to certain shooting scenes (SCENE FILE page). For information about how to set items, see Section 4-5-1 “Basic Use of the Setup Menu”...
Page 141 PAINT menu items This section introduces pages of the PAINT menu and items contained on each page. To reset all current detailed-adjusted settings and switch settings to the reference file data You can clear all current detailed-adjusted settings and switch settings, and returning the settings to the standard settings (saved in the reference file).
Page 142 List of the PAINT menu Page Item Setting FLARE ON, OFF Turns flare correction on or off. STATUS GAMMA ON, OFF Turns gamma correction on or off. ON, OFF Turns black gamma correction on or off. KNEE ON, OFF Turns knee correction on or off. ON, OFF Turns white clipping on or off.
Page 143 Page Item VIDEO WHITE LEVEL BLACK FLARE GAMMA V MOD FLARE V MOD TEST 4-66 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Setting Description –99~0~99 Adjusts the white level of R, G, and B –99~0~99 Adjusts the R, G, B, and master black level.
Page 144 ON, OFF TEST 1, 2, OFF ) STANDARD 1: INTIAL GAIN 3.5 (equivalent to ENG camcorder) 2: INTIAL GAIN 4.0 LOW (equivalent to EFP camera) 3: INTIAL GAIN 4.0 HIGH (equivalent to EFP camera)) 4: INTIAL GAIN 4.0 (equivalent to SMPT-240M) 5: INTIAL GAIN 4.5 (equivalent to ITU-709)
Page 145 Page Item LEVEL GAMMA RANGE Y LEVEL RANGE TEST Item Page LEVEL BLK CLIP 4-68 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Setting –99~0~99 Adjusts the R, G, B, and master black gamma. 15, 25, 35, Sets the upper limit of the video level which the RGB black gamma affects.
Page 146 Page Item Setting –99~0~99 KNEE POINT R,G,B,M –99~0~99 SLOPE R,G,B,M –99~0~99 R,G,B,M –99~0~99 KNEE LEVEL ON,OFF KNEE ON, OFF ON, OFF CLIP TEST Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Description Sets the R, G, B, and master knee point level Sets the R, G, B, and master knee slope level...
Page 147 Item Page LEVEL DETAIL1 LIMITER M/WHT/BLK CRISP H V RATIO FREQ LVL DEP DETAIL LVL DEP FINE DTL DETAIL 2 KNEE APERTURE 4-70 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Setting Description –99~0~99 Sets the general level of the detail signal.
Page 148 Page Item SKIN SKIN DTL DETAIL SKIN GATE CH SW GATE PHASE WIDTH LEVEL Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Setting Description ON, OFF Turns on or off the skin-tone detail function . ON, OFF Turn the zebra indication of the skin tone detail portion on or off.
Page 149 Page Item USER R-G, R-B MATRIX G-R, G-B B-R, B-G MATRIX PRESET USER MATRIX MULTI MATRIX a) You cannot perform the setting when the MATRIX is set to OFF. 4-72 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Setting –99~0~99 Sets arbitrary R-G or R-B user-set matrix coefficients.
Page 150 Page Item PHASE MULTI MATRIX ALL CLEAR MATRIX PRESET USER MATRIX MULTI MATRIX a) You cannot perform the setting when the MATRIX is set to OFF. Setting Sets the region the multi 2, 23, 45, 68, matrix correction function can 90, 113, 135, be changed.
Page 151 Page Item SHUTTER SHUTTER/ ECS FREQ 30 to S-EVS a) These are the shutter speed and ECS frequency in the case where 60 I or 59.94 I format is selected in the MULT FORMAT page of the MAINTENANCE menu. When another format is selected, the shutter speed and ECS frequency are as follows.
Page 152 Reads five scene files saved in the memory stick into the memory of the camcorder. Writes five scene files saved in the memory of the camcorder into the memory stick. Writes comments to the scene files to be saved in the memory stick.
Page 153: Maintenance Menu
4-9 Maintenance Menu The MAINTENANCE menu contains items for performing camera maintenance operations such as changing the system or infrequently used paint item. This section gives lists of items that can be performed on the MAINTENANCE menu. For detailed information about how to set items, refer to the maintenance manual. Selecting the MAINTENANCE menu While pushing the MIC/MENU knob, change the DISPLAY switch from OFF to MENU.
Page 154: Maintenance Menu Items
MAINTENANCE menu items Page Item AUTO SETUP AUTO BLACK AUTO WHITE AUTO LEVEL TEST Page Item WHITE SHADING V SAW V PARA H SAW H PARA WHITE V MODE Page Item BLACK SHADING V SAW V PARA H SAW H PARA BLK SET BLACK MASTER GAIN...
Page 155 Page OHB MATRIX Page AUTO IRIS Page CAM ID/DATE 4-78 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Item Setting PHASE 0, 23, 45, 68, 90, 113, 135, 158, 180, 203, 225, 248, 270, 293, 315, 338 –99~0~99 –99~0~99 ALL CLEAR (Clears paint values of HUE and SAT for each PHASE to 0.) MATRIX...
Page 156 Page Item MULT FORMAT CURRENT NEXT a) Select the desired format in the NEXT column. In the CURRENT column the currently selected format is displayed. Newly selected format is executed after the power is turned off and on. It is then displayed in the CURRENT column on this page.
Page 157 Page BATT ALARM Page OTHERS 1 4-80 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording Item Setting BATT TYPE LITHIUM, DIGITAL, OTHERS 1, OTHERS 2, AC BEFORE END Alarm voltage 11.0 V to 17 V (ineffective when AC ADP is selected) END (Shutdown) voltage 11.0 V to 17 V (ineffective when AC ADP is selected)
Page 158 Page Item OTHERS 2 FAN MODE MENU RESUME DATA TYPE WHITE MEMORY a) Display type of the date 1: Y/Mn/D (Year/Month/Day) (Month is expressed in figures) 2: Mn/D (Month/Day) (Month is expressed in figures) 3: D/M/Y (Day/Month/Year) 4: D/M (Day/Month) 5: M/D/Y (Month/Day/Year) 6: M/D (Month/Day) Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording...
Page 159: Using The Memory Stick
You can recreate suitable setup condition rapidly using data in the memory stick. 4-10-1 Handling the Memory Stick The memory stick can be inserted or removed from the camcorder with the power turned on or off. Removing the memory stick Open the cover of the memory stick compartment.
Page 160 Note Do not remove the memory stick while the access indicator is lit, the camcorder is reading or writing data on the memory stick. Inserting the memory stick Open the cover of the memory stick compartment. Hold the memory stick with the notch facing upward and the arrow facing toward you, and insert the memory stick into the memory stick insertion slot until it clicks into place.
Page 161: Using Data On The Memory Stick
• When storing and carrying the memory stick, keep it in its original case to ensure protection of important data. • When carrying the camcorder with the memory stick inserted, close the cover. • Avoid removing the memory stick from the insertion slot while the access indicator is lit.
Page 162 Writing data to the memory stick Following the procedure below. 2,3,4 Writing data to the memory stick Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU. The page that was on the screen when the last menu operation ended appears on the viewfinder screen. (When this MENU is first used, the lowest page number of the previously selected will appear.) MENU switch Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording...
Page 163 Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the OPERATOR FILE page appears, and then push the MIC/MENU knob. Move the arrow ( ) by turning the MIC/MENU knob until it points to WRITE (CAM t MS), and push the MIC/MENU knob. “WRITE OK?” appears. If no memory stick has been inserted, the message “NO MEMORY STICK!”...
Page 164 • To end the writing of data, push the MENU switch to CANCEL. • To continue the writing of data, go to step 4. Push the MIC/MENU knob. The setting data stored in the camcorder is written to the memory stick. When the writing is completed, the message “COMPLETE”...
Page 165: Protecting Saved Data
Protecting saved data To prevent accidental erasure of important setup data, use the write protect switch on the memory stick. Slide the switch right to the write protect position. It is now impossible to write or delete data on the memory stick. If you set the write protect switch to the write protect position, in step 4 when pushing the MIC/MENU knob in the previous section (page 4-87), “MEMORY STICK LOCKED!”...
Page 166 If data cannot be written If one of the following error messages appears when you push the MIC/ MENU knob in step 4 of the procedure in the previous section (page 4- 87), then the data was not written. Data write error messages Error message Reason No memory stick is...
Page 167 Reading saved data from a memory stick Follow the procedure below. Reading saved data from a memory stick Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU. The page that was on the screen when the last menu operation ended appears on the viewfinder screen. (When this menu is first used, the lowest-numbered one of the currently selected pages appears.) 4-90 Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording...
Page 168 Turn the MIC/MENU knob until the OPERATOR FILE page appears, and then push the MIC/MENU knob. OPERATOR FILE page (factory settings) Move the arrow ( ) by turning the MIC/MENU knob until it points to READ (MS t CAM). push the MIC/MENU knob. A message “READ OK?”...
Page 169 To end the menu operations, set the DISPLAY switch to ON. The setup menu disappears from the viewfinder screen and the displays indicating the current status of the camcorder appear along the top and bottom of the viewfinder. 4-92...
Page 170 FILE ERROR that cannot be read with (flashing) this camcorder. Action Insert or reinsert the memory stick. Recheck, and consult a Sony representative. Do not try to read data written with another camcorder. Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording 4-93...
Page 171 Setting the FILE ID When data is written to a memory stick, it is useful to set a file ID for the memory stick to identify it. When data is saved to a memory stick, a file ID is written to the memory stick together with the data.
Page 172 When you set the file ID for the first time, the top position is highlighted. When the file ID has been set, the top character of the file ID is highlighted. Enter the file ID. When you set the file ID for the first time, start from step 2. 1 Press the MIC/MENU knob until the character you wish to change is highlighted.
Page 173 3 Push the MIC/MENU knob. The character selected in step 2 is entered, the cursor moves to the next position and that position is highlighted. When there are no characters after the entered letter, the next position is a space and the space is selected on the character table.
Page 174 Notes • When the file ID consists of less than 14 characters , enter spaces in the remaining positions. • Execute the file ID before saving data in the memory stick. Otherwise, the file ID is not saved with the other data. This file ID is saved in the memory stick with another data To reset the file ID to the original one Push the MIC/MENU knob to the CANCEL side before you enter the...
Page 175 To add characters Push the MIC/MENU knob until the character located after the position where you want to add a character is highlighted. Turn the MIC/MENU knob until INS is highlighted on the character table. Press the MIC/MENU knob. A space is placed and highlighted before the character highlighted in step 1.
Page 176: Chapter 5 Setting Up The Camcorder
5-1 Power Supply You need to power on the camcorder to adjust the flange focal length and make other adjustments, which are described later. First, prepare the power supply. The following power supplies can be used with the camcorder. • A BP-L60A lithium-ion battery pack •...
Page 177: Attaching The Battery Pack
Attaching the battery pack Press the battery pack against the back of the camcorder, aligning the side line of the battery pack with the line on the camcorder. Align these lines. Slide the battery pack down until its “LOCK” arrow points at the matching line on the camcorder.
Page 178: Detaching The Battery Pack
Detaching the battery pack Holding the button in, pull the battery pack up. L O C K Detaching the battery pack Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder...
Page 179: Avoiding Breaks In Operation Due To Dead Batteries
When the external battery begins to fail and an internal battery pack is not used First load the camcorder with a fully charged internal battery pack, then remove the DC output cable of the external battery from the DC IN connector.
Page 180: Using An Ac Adaptor
5-1-3 Using an AC Adaptor Connect the camcorder to the AC power supply through the AC-550 AC Adaptor as shown in the following figure, and turn the POWER switch of the AC-550 on. DC IN DC output cable (supplied with the AC-550)
Page 181: Using The Anton Bauer Ultralight System
5-1-4 Using the Anton Bauer Ultralight System You can equip the camcorder with a special battery mount that the Anton Bauer Corporation has developed for its Ultralight System. Ultralight System: By installing this system on the camcorder, you can switch the video light on and off automatically as you start and stop VTR operation, using the VTR START button on the camcorder or the VTR button on the lens.
Page 182: Adjusting The Viewfinder
Slide the viewfinder to the most convenient position. Tighten the viewfinder left-right positioning ring. Storing the camcorder in the carrying case Always store the camcorder with the viewfinder moved fully in the direction opposite to the barrel and the viewfinder left-right positioning ring tightened.
Page 183 Adjusting the position backward or forward Adjusting the position backward or forward Loosen the viewfinder front-rear positioning lever. Slide the viewfinder longitudinally to the most convenient position. Tighten the viewfinder front-rear positioning lever. Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder...
Page 184: Detaching The Viewfinder
Point the viewfinder barrel up or down. Loosen the viewfinder left-right positioning ring. Holding the viewfinder stopper up, slide the viewfinder in the direction indicated by the arrow and detach it. Viewfinder stopper Detaching the viewfinder Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder (Continued)
Page 185 By fitting a BKW-401 Viewfinder Rotation Bracket (not supplied), you can rotate the viewfinder out of the way so that your right leg does not hit the viewfinder while you are carrying the camcorder. For more information, refer to the BKW-401 manual.
Page 186: Mounting The Lens
Holding the lens in place, push the lens locking lever down to mount the lens. Connect the lens cable to the LENS connector. Secure the lens cable with the cable clamps. Mounting the lens Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder 5-11...
Page 187: Adjusting The Flange Focal Length
Loosen the fixing screws on the Ff ring (flange focal length adjustment ring). Use manual or power zoom to set the lens to telephoto. 5-12 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder About 3 m (10 ft) Adjusting the flange focal length...
Page 188 Turn the Ff ring until the chart is in focus, being careful not to disturb the focus ring. Repeat steps 4 to 7 until the chart stays in focus all the way from wide angle to telephoto. Tighten the Ff ring fixing screws. Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder 5-13...
Page 189: Audio Input System
5-5 Audio Input System 5-5-1 Using the Supplied Microphone You can use the supplied microphone either detached from the camcorder using the extension cable, or attached to the camcorder. Using the microphone detached from the camcorder Connect to the MIC IN connector.
Page 190 Using the microphone attached to the camcorder Loosen the screw and open the microphone holder. Place the microphone in the microphone holder. Tighten the screw. Microphone holder Place the microphone in the holder so that “UP” is at the top.
Page 191 Plug the microphone cable into the MIC IN connector, and set the AUDIO IN switch for the desired recording channel to FRONT. 5-16 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Connect to the MIC IN connector.
Page 192: Using An External Microphone
+48 V ON if you use an external power supply type microphone. Otherwise, set the switch to MIC. • • L O C K AUDIO IN CH-1 or CH-2 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder External microphone 5-17...
Page 193 Using an external microphone attached to the camcorder You can attach an external microphone to the camcorder by using the CAC-12 Microphone Holder (not supplied). Additionally, by using the CRS-3P Cradle Suspension (not supplied), you can reduce the mechanical vibration noise from the VTR, and can also attach a long microphone.
Page 194 Remove the external microphone holder attachment screws. Attach the CAC-12 Microphone Holder. Screws removed in step 2 CAC-12 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder (Continued) 5-19...
Page 195 Open the CAC-12 and remove the microphone adaptor. Mount the assembly from step 1 in the CAC-12. 5-20 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Loosen the screw. Open the CAC-12. Tighten the screw. Close the CAC-12. Microphone adaptor...
Page 196 Note When you connect a microphone to the AUDIO IN connector for channel 1 and 2, set the appropriate LINE/MIC/+48V ON switch to MIC. Microphone Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder 5-21...
Page 197: Attaching A Uhf Portable Tuner (For A Uhf Wireless Microphone System)
5-5-3 Attaching a UHF Portable Tuner (for a UHF Wireless Microphone System) To use a Sony UHF wireless microphone system, fit the WRR-28M/810/ 860 UHF Portable Tuner. For each of these UHF portable tuners, use the following attachment procedure. (The WRR-28M is taken as an example below.)
Page 198 Mount the tuner on the WRR tuner fitting. Connect the tuner power cord to the DC OUT connector of the camcorder, and the audio output cable to the AUDIO IN connector for channel 1 or channel 2. Set the AUDIO IN switch for the channel to which the audio out cable is attached to REAR.
Page 199: Connecting Line Input Audio Equipment
Set the AUDIO IN switch for the channel to which the audio signal source is connected to REAR. 5-24 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Set the LINE/MIC/+48 V ON switch for the channel to which the audio signal source is connected to LINE.
Page 200: Tripod Mounting
5-6 Tripod Mounting You can easily mount and dismount the camcorder on a tripod by using the supplied tripod adaptor. Attach the tripod adaptor to the tripod. Tripod adaptor Camera mount Mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor. Select the screw hole in the...
Page 201: Removing The Camcorder From The Tripod Adaptor
If the pin remains in the engaged position, you will not be able to mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor.
Page 202: Attaching The Shoulder Strap
5-7 Attaching the Shoulder Strap Attach the supplied shoulder strap as shown below. Shoulder strap post Attaching the shoulder strap 5-27 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder...
Page 203 Attaching Clip Removing 5-28 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Pull up the strap to lock the fitting. Attaching the shoulder strap Press here and pull in the direction shown by the arrow to release. Removing the shoulder strap...
Page 204: Adjusting The Shoulder Pad Position
You can shift the shoulder pad from its center position (factory setting) backward or forward by up to 10 mm (3/8 inch). This adjustment helps you get the best balance for shooting with the camcorder on your shoulder. Adjusting the shoulder pad position Loosen the two screws.
Page 205: Putting On The Rain Cover
Attach the rain cover as illustrated below. You can insert and remove cassette tapes, operate various switches and controls, and mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor with the rain cover attached. To attach the shoulder strap, pass the strap...
Page 206 To connect external equipment, pass the cables through here and tighten the drawstring. When no external equipment is used, fold this up and connect it to the velcro tape on the bottom. Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder 5-31...
Page 207 Close the velcro tape. To mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor, attach it through these holes. 5-32 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Front of camcorder Front of camcorder Bottom of camcorder Back of camcorder Back of camcorder...
Page 208: Connecting The Remote Control Unit
Connecting the RCP-700 Series Remote Control Unit (not supplied) enables remote control of the principal camera functions. Turning the POWER switch of the camcorder to ON when the remote control unit is connected to the REMOTE connector (8-pin) automatically puts the camcorder into remote control mode. If you disconnect the remote control unit, remote control mode is canceled.
Page 209 Remote Control Unit and MSU-700 Master Setup Unit. The length of each cable is as follows: RCP-700 series: 10 meters RM-B150: 100 meters MSU-700A/750: 200 meters 5-34 Chapter 5 Setting Up the Camcorder Master Setup Unit MSU-700A/750 REMOTE connector Connecting the remote control unit Remote Control Unit...
Page 210: Chapter 6 Maintenance
6-1 Testing the Camcorder Before Shooting Check the functions of the camcorder before setting out for a shooting session, preferably by operating the camcorder together with a color video monitor. 6-1-1 Preparations for Testing Attach a fully charged battery pack.
Page 211: Testing The Camera
Condensation If you move the camcorder from a very cold place to a warm place, or use it in a damp location, condensation may form on the head drum. Then, if the camcorder is operated in this state, the tape may adhere to the drum and cause a failure or even permanent damage.
Page 212 Testing the viewfinder Adjust the position of the viewfinder. Check that the color bars are displayed in the viewfinder, and adjust the BRIGHT, CONTRAST, and PEAKING controls to give the best color bar display. Check each of the following operations. (1) Set the DISPLAY switch to MENU and check that the setup menu is displayed on the viewfinder screen.
Page 213 Set both of the AUDIO IN switches to FRONT, and check that when sound is input to a microphone connected to the MIC IN connector on the front of the camcorder, the audio level indication appears on the viewfinder screen.
Page 214: Testing The Iris And Zoom Functions
Testing the iris and zoom functions Set the zoom to automatic zoom mode and check that the power zoom operates correctly. Set the zoom to manual zoom mode and check the zoom functions manually. Set the iris switch on the lens to AUTO and point the camera at objects of different brightness.
Page 215: Testing The Vtr
6-1-3 Testing the VTR Perform tests (1) to (6) consecutively. (1) Testing the tape transport functions Set the VTR SAVE/STBY switch to SAVE and check that the VTR SAVE indicator in the viewfinder goes on. Set the VTR SAVE/STBY switch to STBY and check that the VTR SAVE indicator in the viewfinder goes off.
Page 216: Testing The Manual Audio Level Adjusting Functions
Hold down the REW button to rewind the tape for a while, then press the PLAY button. Check that the rewind and playback functions operate normally. Press the STOP button and press the F FWD button. Check that the fast forward function operates normally. (2) Testing the automatic audio level adjusting functions Set the AUDIO IN switches to FRONT.
Page 217: Testing The Earphone And Speaker
(4) Testing the earphone and speaker Set the VTR SAVE/STBY switch to STBY. Turn the MONITOR control and check that the speaker volume changes accordingly. Connect an earphone to the EARPHONE jack. Check that the speaker sound is cut off and that you can hear the sound from the microphone in the earphone.
Page 218 (6) Checking the functions of the user bits and time code Set the user bits as required. For more information see Section 4-4-1 “Setting the User Bits” (page 4-17). Set the time code. For more information, see Section 4-4-2 “Setting the Time Code” (page 4-19). Set the F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch to R-RUN.
Page 219: Maintenance
6-2 Maintenance 6-2-1 Cleaning the Video Heads To clean the video heads, use a Sony BCT-HD12CL Cleaning Cassette. Follow the instructions given with the cleaning cassette, as incorrect or excessive use could damage the video heads. To clean the heads, follow the procedure below.
Page 220 Disassembling the eyepiece for cleaning Viewfinder Eyecup barrel holder Detach the eyepiece from the viewfinder barrel. For the detaching procedure, see the following “Detaching the eyepiece on the next page”. Remove the eyecup from the eyecup holder. Remove the protecting filter, together with the packing rig, from inside the eyecup folder.
Page 221: Detaching The Eyepiece
Detaching the eyepiece Turn the eyepiece locking ring fully counterclockwise to line up the red match mark on the locking ring with the red match mark on the viewfinder barrel. Detach the eyepiece. 6-12 Chapter 6 Maintenance Locking ring Locking ring match mark Match mark on the viewfinder barrel Match mark on end of eyepiece...
Page 222 Refitting the eyepiece Align the match mark on the eyepiece locking ring with that on the viewfinder barrel. Align the match mark on the end of the eyepiece (see step 2 in “Detaching the eyepiece” on the previous page) with that of the eyepiece locking ring, then insert the eyepiece into the viewfinder barrel.
Page 223: Operation Warnings
6-3 Operation Warnings When a problem occurs either at power on or during operation, warnings are given by the WARNING indicator and TALLY indicator, in the Display panel Warning/ Flashing/ Battery continuous status indication Continuous SERVO Continuous Continuous HUMID Continuous SLACK Continuous TAPE...
Page 224 Clean the heads. If recording is still substandard, turn off the power and consult your Sony representative. Turn off the power and consult your Sony representative. Note that this indication may be given momentarily when the tape starts moving, but this does not indicate a problem.
Page 225: Notes On Ccd Image Sensors
Notes on CCD image sensors Vertical smear Smear tends to be produced when an extremely bright object is being shot; it is more likely to occur with a faster electronic shutter speed. Aliasing When patterns of stripes or lines are shot, they may appear jagged. 6-16 Chapter 6 Maintenance Vertical tails show on the image.
Page 226: Appendix
Specifications Power voltage +5.0 V DC –1.0 Power consumption 40 W (with 12 V DC supply, when recording) Operating temperature 0°C to +40°C (32°F to 104°F) Operating humidity 25% to 85% (relative humidity) Storage temperature -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to +140°F) Mass Approx.
Page 227: Video Camera Section
Video Camera Section General Imager -inch frame-interline-transfer type CCD with 2,200,000 pixels Effective picture elements 1920(H) x 1080(V) Imager Configuration RGB 3 CCDs Spectral system F1.4 prism system (with quartz filter) Built-in filters CC filter A: Cross filter B: 3200K C: 4300K D: 6300K ND filter...
Page 228: Vtr Section
VTR Section General Usable cassette tapes BCT-22HD/40HD -inch HDCAM cassette tapes Tape speed approx. 96.7 mm/s (at 30 frames) Record/playback time 40 minutes (at 30 frames ) (using BCT-40HD video cassette) 48 minutes (at 25 frames ) (using BCT-40HD video cassette) 50 minutes (at 24 frames ) (using BCT-40HD video cassette) Fast forward time Approx.
Page 229 Digital video Digital video signal Sampling frequency Quantization Compression Channel coding Error correction Error concealment Audio (with standard playback machine) Frequency response Dynamic range Distortion Cross talk Wow and flutter Input/output connectors Signal inputs AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 (XLR, 3-pin, female) –60 dBu/+4 dBu (0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms.) MIC IN (XLR, 3-pin, female)
Page 230: Signal Outputs
GENLOCK IN (BNC type) 1.0 Vp-p, 75 W TC IN (BNC type) 0.5 V to 18 Vp-p, 10 k W Signal outputs MONITOR OUT (BNC type) (Y, P 1.0 Vp-p, 75 W, unbalanced AUDIO OUT (XLR, 5-pin, male) 0 dBm TC OUT (BNC type) 1.0 Vp-p, 75 W EARPHONE (minijack)
Page 231: Supplied Accessories
Supplied Accessories HD Electronic Viewfinder (HDVF-20A) (1) Microphone (super cardioid directional, external power supply type) (1) Tripod Adaptor (VCT-14) (1) Shoulder Strap (1) Rain Cover (1) Operation Manual (1) Maintenance Manual (1) Recommended Additional Equipment Power supply and related equipment BP-L60A Battery Pack BC-L100 Battery Charger (for BP-L60A Battery Pack) AC-550 AC Adaptor...
Page 232 ND filter ( ND) (Part No. 3-174-683-01) Cross filter (Part No. 3-174-682-01) Mount ring (Part No. 3-186-442-01) Consult your Sony representative for more information about these filters. Equipment for remote control RCP-700 Series Remote Control Unit RM-B150 Remote Control Unit...
Page 233 Equipment for maintenance and easier handling BCT-HD12CL Cleaning Cassette LC-HD7 Carrying Case LC-304SFT Soft Carrying Case EX-410 Extension Circuit Board Design and specifications are subject to change without notice. Appendix...
Page 234: Glossary
Glossary Aliasing Distortion that occurs when an analog signal is sampled to create a digital signal. Bayonet mount A type of lens mount. The lens can be inserted into the lens mount and quickly locked in place by simply rotating a lens locking ring. Black balance adjustment To balance the black levels of the R, G, and B channels of a video camera so that black has no color.
Page 235 Center marker A cross that indicates the center of the image on the viewfinder screen. Control signal in the form of regular pulses recorded along a longitudinal track on the video tape. By counting these pulses, it is possible to determine the number of frames, and hence the tape running time.
Page 236 29.97 Psf or 59.94 I, drop frame mode drops two frames (frames 00 and 01) from the time code value at the beginning of each minute except every tenth minute.
Page 237 See also Flange focal length. Frame Interline Transfer. A type of CCD imager featuring substantially reduced vertical smear. Flange focal length The distance from the plane of the lens mounting flange to the image focal plane. Abbreviated to Ff. Flare Dark or colored flashes caused by signal overload through extreme light reflections of polished objects or very bright lights.
Page 238: Memory Stick
Non-drop frame mode Non-drop frame mode does not perform the processing of drop frame mode. As a result, when the format of the camcorder is set to either 29.97 Psf or 59.94 I, there will be a discrepancy between the actual time and the time code value of about 86 seconds in one day.
Page 239 Override Temporarily allows the iris to be manually adjusted while in automatic iris adjustment mode. Shutter speed The length of time for which the shutter stays open. The higher the shutter speed, the more clearly a moving object can be shot. Signal-to-Noise ratio.
Page 240 Vertical smear A bright vertical line that appears on the screen when shooting a very bright object with a CCD camera. Also called smear. Video gain Amount of amplification for video signals, expressed in decibels (dB). VITC Vertical Interval Time Code. Unlike LTC, VITC is recorded in the same tracks as the video information, so they can be read with editing recorder.
Page 241 A-16 Appendix...
Page 242: Index
Index AC-550 AC Adaptor 1-7, 2-1, 5-1, Accessory attachments 2-3 AC power supply 1-7, 5-5 Adjusting the flange focal length 5-12 Adjustments and settings for recording audio level 4-13 black balance and white balance 4-1 electronic shutter 4-9 memory stick operations 4-82 PAINT menu 4-63 setup menu display on the...
Page 243 Using the BP-L60A Battery Pack 1-7, 2-1, 5-1, 5-22 BC-L100 1-7, 5-1, A-6 BCT-HD12CL 6-10, A-8 BETACAM holder kit 5-22 BKW-401 1-6, 5-10, A-7 Black balance adjusting 4-2 error message 4-4 memory 4-4 BP-L60A 1-7, 2-1, 5-1, 5-22, A-6 BREAKER button 2-2 BRIGHT control 2-14 C-74 1-7, 5-17, A-7 CAC-12 Microphone Holder 1-7,...
Page 244 5-33 mounting the lens 5-11 power supply 5-1 putting on the rain cover 5-30 storing the camcorder in the carrying case 5-7 tripod mounting 5-25 Error messages adjusting the black balance adjusting the white balance...
Page 245 F-stop indicator 4-36, 4-39 F FWD button and indicator 2-26 Filter CC filter 2-18, 4-6 filter indicator 4-35, 4-39 fog-proof filter 6-13 ND filter 2-18, 4-6 protecting filter 6-11 selecting 2-18, 4-6 FILTER selector 2-17 Flicker 4-10 F-RUN/SET/R-RUN switch 2-33 free run/recording run switch 2-33, 4-18, 4-20 Fog-proof filter 1-6, 6-13, A-7...
Page 246 Menu DIAGNOSIS menu 4-30 MAINTENANCE menu 4-30, 4-76 OPERATION menu 4-29, 4-38 PAINT menu 4-30, 4-63 TOP menu 4-28 Microphone supplied microphone 2-5 using an external microphone 5-17 using the supplied microphone 5-14 Microphone audio level adjustment 4-13 Microphone holder (A) 5-18 MENU switch 2-28 MIC IN connector 2-5 MIC/MENU knob 2-5, 2-19, 2-27...
Page 247 ZEBRA/VF DTL 4-38, 4-51 ‘!’ IND page 4-38, 4-41 PAINT menu 4-30, 4-63 PEAKING control 2-14 Playback checking the recording 3-13 color playback 3-13 parts and controls 2-13 recording review 3-14 using a color video monitor 3-14 PLAY button and indicator 2-26 POWER switch 2-2 Power supply (See also Battery.) Anton Bauer Ultralight...
Page 248 RESET button 2-32 RET button 4-21 REW button and indicator 2-25 RF indicator 2-39, 6-14 RM-B150 1-6, 2-23, 5-33, 5-34, Safety zone marker 2-13 Self-diagnosis indicator 4-36 mode 2-39 SERVO indicator 2-39, 6-14 Setup menu basic use 4-31 DIAGNOSIS menu 4-30 MAINTENANCE menu 4-30, 4-76 OPERATION menu 4-29,...
Page 249 4-36, 4-43, 6-14 testing the tape transport functions 6-6 TC IN connector 2-30 TC OUT connector 2-30 Tele-File 3-15, A-6 Testing See Testing the camcorder before shooting. Testing the camcorder before shooting audio level adjusting functions 6-7 camera section 6-2...
Page 250 Vertical smear 6-16 Video head cleaning 6-10 monitor 1-6, 3-14 Viewfinder adjusting the position 5-7 BKW-401 Rotation Bracket 1-6, 5-10 cleaning 6-10 detaching 5-9 front-rear positioning lever 2-16, 5-8 indicators on the viewfinder 2-42 left-right positioning ring 2-16, 5-7 operation 2-13 related equipment A-7 selecting display items 4-43 status display 4-34...
Page 251 Name Office Address Phone...
Page 252 The material contained in this manual consists of information that is the property of Sony Corporation and is intended solely for use by the purchasers of the equipment described in this manual. Sony Corporation expressly prohibits the duplication of any portion...

Sony HDW-F900 Operation Manual

Chapter 1 Overview

Features

Example of System Configuration

Precautions

Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls

Power Supply

Accessory Attachments

Audio Functions

Shooting and Recording/Playback Functions

Setup Menu Operating Section

Time Code System

Warnings and Indications

Warnings and Indications on the Display Panel

Indicators on the Viewfinder

Chapter 3 Recording and Playback

About Cassettes

Recording

Checking the Recording - Playback

Tele-File

Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording

Adjusting the Black Balance and the White Balance

Setting the Electronic Shutter

Adjusting the Audio Level

Setting the Time Data

Setup Menu Display on the Viewfinder Screen

Status Display on the Viewfinder Screen

Setup Using the OPERATION Menu

Paint Menu

Maintenance Menu

Using the Memory Stick

Chapter 5 Setting up the Camcorder

Power Supply

Adjusting the Viewfinder

Mounting the Lens

Adjusting the Flange Focal Length

Audio Input System

Tripod Mounting

Attaching the Shoulder Strap

Adjusting the Shoulder Pad Position

Putting on the Rain Cover

Connecting the Remote Control Unit

Chapter 6 Maintenance

Testing the Camcorder before Shooting

Maintenance

Operation Warnings

Appendix

Specifications

Glossary

Index

Quick Links

Need help?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Sony HDW-F900

Summary of Contents for Sony HDW-F900

Table of Contents