Sony HVR-A1U Operating Manual
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Sony HVR-A1U Operating Manual

Digital hd video camera recorder
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See also: Service Manual
2-639-667-13 (1)
Digital HD Video
Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly,
and retain it for future reference.
HVR-A1U/A1N
© 2005 Sony Corporation

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  • Page 1 2-639-667-13 (1) Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. HVR-A1U/A1N © 2005 Sony Corporation...

  • Page 2: Read This First

    Record the serial number in the space of important operating and provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever maintenance (servicing) you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this instructions in the literature product. accompanying the appliance. Model No. HVR- Serial No.

  • Page 3: Regulatory Information

    If you have any questions about this product, you – Connect the equipment into an outlet on a may call: circuit different from that to which the receiver Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-686- is connected. SONY (7669). – Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV The number below is for the FCC related matters technician for help.
  • Page 4 Read this first (Continued) On the types of “Memory Stick” you On using the camcorder can use in your camcorder • Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts. There are two sizes of “Memory Stick.” You can use “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 5 Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl conditions, such as at dusk. Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly On recording by Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony Corporation, and produces superior images. • Before starting to record, test the It adopts the MTF measurement system for...

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Note on the icons used in this manual : Features available for the HDV format only. : Features available for the DVCAM format only. Features available for the DV SP format only. Read this first ....................2 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...............9 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ............10 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ...13...
  • Page 7 To initialize the settings Other part names and functions Indicators displayed during recording/playback........28 Searching for the starting point ...............31 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) ......................31 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review)......31 Remote Commander ................32 Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) ......32 Connecting to a TV for viewing..............33...
  • Page 8 Jacks to connect external devices............77 Using a computer Connecting to a computer ...............78 Copying still images to a computer ............78 Copying movies on a tape to the computer ..........81 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ..................83 Warning indicators and messages ............98 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ...............102 HDV format and recording/playback............103 Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV format ..........105 About the “Memory Stick”..............107...

  • Page 9: Step 1: Checking Supplied Items

    Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure that you have following items A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 33, 69) supplied with your camcorder. The number in the parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. “Memory Stick Duo” (1) (p. 17, 107) Component video cable (1) (p.

  • Page 10: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series) (p. 109) after Slide the POWER switch up to attaching it to your camcorder. OFF (CHG) . (The default setting.) POWER switch DC IN jack DC plug CHG (charge) lamp To the wall outlet...
  • Page 11 Charging time Connect the power cord to the AC Approximate time (min.) required when Adaptor and the wall outlet. you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack. The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and charging starts. Battery pack Charging time NP-FM50 (supplied) NP-QM71D The CHG (charge) lamp turns off...

  • Page 12: Playing Time

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack (Continued) * Top: When the LCD backlight turns on. • Use the supplied or optional Sony “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). You Middle: When the LCD backlight turns off. cannot use the battery pack NP-FM30 with your Bottom: Recording time when recording with camcorder.

  • Page 13: Step 3: Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Firmly

    Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly To record or play back, slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the respective Hold the camcorder correctly. lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 16). POWER switch Ensure a good grip, then fasten...

  • Page 14: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder To turn off the LCD backlight to make The LCD panel the battery last longer Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the Press and hold DISPLAY/BATT INFO for camcorder (), then rotate it to the best a few seconds until appears.

  • Page 15: Step 5: Using The Touch Panel

    Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. Simple display 23), or change the settings (p. 38) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.

  • Page 16: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not Select [CLOCK SET] with set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] then touch screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch CLOCK SET position.

  • Page 17: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” Cassette tape Close the lid. See 103 for details of usable cassettes and prevention of accidental erasure. To eject the cassette • The recordable time varies depending on [ REC MODE] (p. 57). Open the lid following the same procedure as described in step and remove the...
  • Page 18 Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” (Continued) To eject a “Memory Stick Duo” Lightly push the “Memory Stick Duo” in once. • When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the “Memory Stick Duo,”...

  • Page 19: Step 8: Installing The Supplied Microphone And Hood With Lens Cover

    Step 8: Installing the supplied microphone and hood with lens cover Installing the supplied Attach the XLR adaptor  to the microphone accessory shoe on the camcorder and tighten the screw of the XLR Install the supplied XLR adaptor and microphone.
  • Page 20 Step 8: Installing the supplied microphone and hood with lens cover (Continued) When detaching the XLR adaptor Select the channel with the REC Unplug the connector plug of the XLR CH SELECT switch. adaptor from the Active Internface Shoe beforehand. Detach the XLR adaptor after Used channels according to the position having loosened the screw of the XLR of the REC CH SELECT switch are as...
  • Page 21 To open and close the lens cover Move the lens cover lever up and down to open or close the lens cover. Move the lens cover lever to OPEN to open the lens cover, and move the lever to CLOSE to close the lens cover.

  • Page 22: Recording

    Recording PHOTO Open the lens cover. POWER switch REC START/  REC START/STOP  STOP Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium. Movies on tape: The CAMERA-TAPE If the POWER lamp lights up.

  • Page 23: Playback

    Playback Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Start playing back. Movies Still images Touch , then touch Touch The most recently recorded image is start playback. displayed. P-MENU  Stop ...

  • Page 24: Functions Used For Recording/Playback, Etc

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. • You cannot change the zoom speed with the  zoom buttons on the LCD frame. • The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus is about 1 cm (about 1/2 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 ft.) for telephoto.
  • Page 25 To adjust the focus manually.. • The NightShot and Super NightShot function use infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the Set the FOCUS/ZOOM switch  to   infrared port with your fingers or other objects and remove the supplied lens hood with ...

  • Page 26: To Use A Tripod

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (Continued) • A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded. To use a tripod ...... Attach the tripod (optional: the length of the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.) to the tripod receptacle ...

  • Page 27: To Initialize The Settings

    To initialize the settings .....  To adjust the movie volume .. Press RESET  to initialize all the Move the EXPOSURE/VOL lever  up settings, including the setting of the date or down to adjust the volume. Move the and time.

  • Page 28: Indicators Displayed During Recording/Playback

    Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies Recording still images In the CAMERA-TAPE mode 60min 60min FINE 1920  Recording folder (52)  Recording format ( ) (57)  Image size (50)  Remaining battery (approx.)  Quality ([FINE] or [STD]) (49) ...
  • Page 29 ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies Viewing still images qg 9 qh qj MEMORY PLAY wd wf  Tape transport indicator  Data file name  Video operation buttons (23) ...
  • Page 30 Indicators displayed during recording/playback (Continued) Indicators when you made i.LINK connection (33, changes 71, 72) Slide show (52) You can check the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 62) LCD backlight off (14) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. Center Upper left Upper right...

  • Page 31: Searching For The Starting Point

    Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp Reviewing the most recently lights up (p. 22). recorded scenes (Rec review) Searching for the last scene of the You can view about 2 seconds of the scene most recent recording (END SEARCH) recorded just before you stopped the tape.

  • Page 32: Remote Commander

    Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using • Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. the Remote Commander. 27). Insulation sheet • To change the battery, see page 114. Searching for a scene by date of recording (Date search) You can locate the point where the recording date changes.

  • Page 33: Connecting To A Tv For Viewing

    Connecting to a TV for viewing Connection methods and image quality will differ depending on what TV to be connected and connectors used. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 10). See page 36 for “Notes on Connection” and refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
  • Page 34 Connecting to a TV for viewing (Continued) : Signal flow Camcorder Menu Setting Type Cable (STANDARD SET) i.LINK cable (optional) [VCR HDV/DV]  [AUTO] (p. 57) [i.LINK CONV]  [OFF] (p.61) Component video cable (supplied) (Green) Y (Blue) P (STANDARD SET) (Red) P [VCR HDV/DV] ...
  • Page 35 : Signal flow Camcorder Menu Setting Type Cable Component video cable (supplied) (Green) Y (Blue) P (STANDARD SET) (Red) P [VCR HDV/DV]  [AUTO] (p. 57) [COMPONENT]* A/V connecting cable (supplied) (p. 60) [DOWN CONVERT]* (Red) (p. 61) (White) (Yellow) Do not connect the S video plug and the video plug (yellow).
  • Page 36 Connecting to a TV for viewing (Continued) Notes on Connection Type Notes • Requires HDV1080i specification connectors. Consult your TV manufacturer for details. See page 104 for a list of supported devices. The TV needs to be set so that it recognizes that the camcorder is connected. Refer to the •...

  • Page 38: Using The Menu Items

    Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the respective lamp. CAMERA-TAPE lamp: settings on a tape CAMERA- MEMORY lamp: settings on a “Memory Stick Duo” PLAY/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
  • Page 39  Select the desired item. • You can also touch the item directly to select it.  Customize the item. After finishing the settings, touch (close) to hide the menu screen.  If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen.

  • Page 40: Menu Items

    Menu items • The menu items available for the operation () differ depending on where the lit lamp for the POWER switch is positioned. Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT CAMERA SET menu (p. 43) –   PROGRAM AE –...
  • Page 41 Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT PICT.APPLI. menu (p. 52) – –  FADER – –  SLIDE SHOW –   D. EFFECT –   PICT. EFFECT – –  INT.REC-STL – –  SHOT TRANS – – ...
  • Page 42 Menu items (Continued) Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT    DISP OUTPUT    MENU ROTATE – –  CALIBRATION – –  DATE REC – –  QUICK REC    ASSIGN BTN TIME/LANGU. menu (p.

  • Page 43: Camera Set Menu

    CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (SPOT METER/WHITE SUNSET&MOON**( ) BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when Select to maintain the atmosphere of the items are selected. situations such as sunsets, general night See page 38 for details on selecting views or fireworks.
  • Page 44 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) – At party scenes or studios where the EXPOSURE lighting conditions change quickly You can fix the brightness of a picture – Under the video lamps of those at a studio, manually. When recording indoors on or under sodium lamps or incandescent-like color lamps a clear day, for instance, you can avoid...
  • Page 45 SHUTTR SPEED CAMERA COLOR You can adjust the color intensity with You can manually adjust and fix the shutter appears when [CAMERA speed for your convenience. Depending on COLOR] is anything other than the default the shutter speed, you can make the subject setting.
  • Page 46 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) • If you select [CINEFRAME30] or [CINEFRAME24] and set the shutter speed to 1/30 or slower, the shutter speed is automatically reset to 1/60. WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift)  Set the FOCUS/ZOOM switch to You can adjust the white balance to the MANUAL (p.
  • Page 47 AUTO • Remove the lens cover with hood (supplied) or the conversion lens (optional). Trigger the flash (optional) automatically. • The maximum shooting distance using [NS AUTO LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 ft.). Trigger the flash (optional) automatically. The flash goes off prematurely to reduce COLOR SLOW S the red-eye phenomenon.
  • Page 48 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) HISTOGRAM DIGITAL ZOOM When you set [HISTOGRAM] to [ON], You can select the maximum zoom level the [HISTOGRAM] (a graph to display in case you want to zoom to a level greater a distribution of tones in your picture) than 10 ×...

  • Page 49: Memory Set Menu

    MEMORY SET menu Settings for the “Memory Stick Duo” (BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/ WIDE CONV.( ) NEW FOLDER, etc.) Select this to use the wide conversion lens (optional). The default settings are marked with  . The indicators in parentheses appear when TELE CONV.( ) the items are selected.
  • Page 50 128MB [FINE] is on top, and [STANDARD] is on the 1970 bottom. 256MB 1400 • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable 3550 pictures varies depending on the recording 512MB 2850 environment. 1000...
  • Page 51 Approximate image size of a picture FORMAT (kB) “Memory Stick Duo” has been formatted at the factory, and does not require 4:3 picture formatting. 1920 × 1440 × 1080 × 640 × 1440 1080 To execute formatting, touch [YES] twice 1380 ...

  • Page 52: Pict.appli. Menu

    PICT.APPLI. menu MEMORY SET menu (Continued) Special effects on pictures or additional functions on recording/playback (SLIDE REC FOLDER (Recording folder) SHOW/PICT. EFFECT, etc.) Select the folder to be used for recording The default settings are marked with  . with , then touch The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.
  • Page 53  Touch [PB FOLDER].   Touch  Select [ALL FILES ( )] or [CURRNT appears. FOLDER ( )], then touch If you select [CURRNT FOLDER ( To cancel [D. EFFECT], touch [OFF] in all the images in the current playback step ...
  • Page 54 PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued) SEPIA INT.REC-STL Pictures appear in sepia. (Interval photo recording) B&W You can record still images on the Pictures appear in black and white. “Memory Stick Duo” at a selected interval. This function is useful to observe the SOLARIZE movement of clouds or the changes in daylight, etc.
  • Page 55  START TIMER EXEC Set the timer to start the shot transition. Touch [NEXT] [EXEC-A] or [EXEC-  B] and the recording setting changes to  OFF the registered one. Touch [BACK] to The timer is not used. register again or touch [END] to finish the operation.

  • Page 56: Edit/Play Menu

    EDIT/PLAY menu Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/END • Pictures in the HDV format may appear SEARCH, etc.) distorted during: – Picture search The default settings are marked with  . – Reverse playback The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected.

  • Page 57: Standard Set Menu

    STANDARD SET menu Settings while recording on a tape or other basic settings (REC MODE/MULTI-SOUND/ • When [AUTO] is selected and the signal LCD/VF SET/DISP OUTPUT, etc.) switches between HDV and DVCAM (DV) formats, the picture and sound disappear The default settings are marked with  . temporarily.
  • Page 58 STANDARD SET menu (Continued) • When you mix recordings in the DVCAM • [FS48K] is selected automatically in the HDV mode and in the DV SP mode on one tape, the format. playback picture may be distorted or the time •...
  • Page 59 • Sound is recorded in the [STEREO] setting MIC NR if the microphone is not connected, even if another setting is selected.  ON Reduce noise from the microphone. XLR SET You can select this setting when using an Deactivate this function. extension microphone.
  • Page 60 STANDARD SET menu (Continued) • If either the CH1 or CH2 setting is changed to • When you select [ON], the battery life is [AUTO] or [MANUAL], the other setting is slightly reduced during recording. automatically changed to the same setting. ...
  • Page 61  SQUEZE  1080i/480i Output signals to a 16:9 wide TV or a TV Select when connecting your camcorder to compatible with 16:9 wide mode. a TV compatible with 1080i. On a 4:3 TV • Video signals cannot be output via the compatible with HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) jack when 16:9 wide mode...
  • Page 62 STANDARD SET menu (Continued)  MEMORY STICK DRUM RUN Select to view pictures in the “Memory Displays the total hours of drum rotation Stick Duo.” in 10-hour increments. PictBridge PRINT TAPE RUN See page 75. Displays the total hours of tape running in 10-hour increments.
  • Page 63 PRESET • The time code and user bits cannot be displayed properly if the tape does not have time code You do not want to make the time code and/or user bits recordings or if the time code continuous at backspace editing. was recorded using a non-compatible method.
  • Page 64 STANDARD SET menu (Continued)   OFF CENTER MARKER Color bar is not displayed. Select to display the marker at the center of the screen. (It is set to [ON] in the default setting.) Color bar is displayed.  [TYPE1] (the default ...
  • Page 65  Aperture value DISP OUTPUT * Appears only during tape playback.  LCD PANEL • The exposure adjustment value (0EV), a shutter Shows displays such as the time code on speed, and the aperture value appear when still images on a “Memory Stick Duo” are played the LCD screen and in the viewfinder.

  • Page 66: Time/Langu. Menu

    ASSIGN button (p. 27). You can select the language to be used on the LCD screen. NO ASSIGN For HVR-A1U: Do not assign the following functions to You can select from English, Simplified the ASSIGN button. English, or Canadian-French.

  • Page 67: Customizing Personal Menu

    Customizing Personal Menu You can add desired menu items to Deleting a menu item Personal Menu, and customize Personal Menu settings for each POWER switch position. This is convenient if you add frequently used menu items to Personal Touch [P-MENU SET UP] ...
  • Page 68 Customizing Personal Menu (Continued) Arranging the order of menu items displayed on Personal Menu Touch [P-MENU SET UP]  [SORT].  If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch Touch the menu item you want to move. Touch to move the menu item to the desired place.

  • Page 69: Dubbing To Another Device Such As A Vcr, Dvd Recorder, Etc

    Dubbing to another device such as a VCR, DVD recorder, etc. Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. Connecting to external devices The connection method and the image quality will differ depending on the video equipment and the connectors used.
  • Page 70 When [VCR HDV/DV] is set to [AUTO] and the signal switches between HDV and DVCAM (DV), the • picture and sound disappear temporarily. When the recorder is an HVR-A1U/A1N, set [VCR HDV/DV] also on the recording device to [AUTO] • (p. 57).

  • Page 71: Dubbing To Another Device

    Dubbing to another device • The following cannot be output via the HDV/DV interface (i.LINK) jack: – Indicators – Pictures edited with [PICT. EFFECT] (p. 53) Prepare your camcorder for or [D. EFFECT] (p. 53). playback. – Titles that are recorded on other camcorder. •...

  • Page 72: Recording Pictures From A Vcr

    Recording pictures from a You can record pictures from a VCR on Recording movies a tape. You can record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Slide the POWER switch down to Stick Duo”...

  • Page 73: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” Touch [REC START] at the point you want to start recording. You can record still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted Stop recording.

  • Page 74: Deleting Recorded Pictures From The "Memory Stick Duo

    Deleting recorded pictures Marking images on the from the “Memory Stick “Memory Stick Duo” with Duo” specific information (Image protection/Print mark) When you are using a “Memory Stick Slide the POWER switch down to Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.

  • Page 75: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) You can print out pictures using a Selecting still images for PictBridge compliant printer without printing (Print mark) connecting the camcorder to a computer. The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for Connect your camcorder to the AC Adaptor printing on your camcorder.
  • Page 76 Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) (Continued) • We cannot guarantee the operation of models beginning. that are not PictBridge compatible. • If you print a still image recorded with a 16:9 ratio, left and right ends of the image may be cut off.

  • Page 77: Jacks To Connect External Devices

    Jacks to connect external devices • The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device for fixing the installed accessory securely. To connect an accessory, press down and push it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and then press down and pull out the accessory.

  • Page 78: Connecting To A Computer

    Connecting to a Copying still images computer to a computer System requirements When connecting your camcorder to the computer, you can operate the followings: For Windows users • OS: Windows 2000 Professional/Windows Copy the still images on a “Memory Millennium Edition/Windows XP Home Stick Duo”...
  • Page 79 Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. to USB jack  [MENU]  Touch (STANDARD SET)  [USB SELECT]  [MEMORY STICK]  USB cable (supplied) Connect the USB cable (supplied) to the USB jack on your camcorder.

  • Page 80: Disconnecting The Usb Cable

    Copying still images to a computer (Continued) Disconnecting the USB cable (supplied) For Windows users If [USB CONNECT] appears on the LCD screen, follow the procedure below to disconnect the USB cable.  Click the [Unplug or eject hardware] icon on the task tray.

  • Page 81: Copying Movies On A Tape To The Computer

    Copying movies on a tape to the computer For Macintosh users Connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable (optional).  Close down all applications running on the The computer needs to be provided with computer. an i.LINK connector and be installed ...
  • Page 82 Copying movies on a tape to the computer (Continued) Notes on connecting to the computer Copied format Recorded • Connect the i.LINK cable (optional) to the Menu setting* to the format computer first, then to your camcorder. computer Connecting in the opposite order may cause static electricity to build up, resulting in a [VCR HDV/DV] malfunction of your camcorder.

  • Page 83: Troubleshooting

    The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 10). If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
  • Page 84 Troubleshooting (Continued) The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time. • The temperature of the environment is too high or too low, or the battery pack has not been charged enough. This is not a malfunction. • Fully charge the battery again. If the problem persists, replace the battery pack with a new one.

  • Page 85: Cassette Tapes

    • Set [VF POWER] of [LCD/VF SET] to [ON] to display the picture in the viewfinder regardless of whether the LCD panel is open or closed (p. 60). Cassette tapes The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment. • Make sure the power source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 10). •...
  • Page 86 Troubleshooting (Continued) You cannot format the “Memory Stick Duo.” • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 107) Image protection cannot be applied. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 107) •...
  • Page 87 • Format the “Memory Stick Duo” on your camcorder or insert another “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 51) • You cannot record movies with this unit on the “Memory Stick Duo.” • When the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-TAPE, you cannot record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 88: Adjusting The Image During Recording

    Troubleshooting (Continued) END SEARCH does not work correctly. • There is a blank section in the beginning or middle of the tape. This is not a malfunction. Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 92). The TELE MACRO button does not function. •...
  • Page 89 The subjects passing by the frame might appear crooked. • This is called the focal plane phenomenon. This is not a malfunction. Because of the way the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out image signals, the subjects passing by the frame rapidly might crooked depending on the recording conditions.
  • Page 90 Troubleshooting (Continued) The pictures stored on a “Memory Stick Duo” are not played back in the actual size or aspect ratio. • Pictures recorded on other devices may not appear in the actual size. This is not a malfunction. Image data stored on a “Memory Stick Duo” cannot be played back. •...
  • Page 91 The picture or sound breaks off. • The tape was recorded in both HDV and DVCAM (DV) formats. This is not a malfunction. The sound breaks off. • Clean the head using the cleaning cassette (optional) (p. 112). “---” is displayed on the screen. •...

  • Page 92: Menu Items Are Grayed Out

    Troubleshooting (Continued) appears on the LCD screen. • This appears when you play back a tape recorded on other recording devices using a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC REC). This camcorder does not comply with the 4ch microphone recording standard. Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function.
  • Page 93 You cannot adjust [EXPOSURE] manually. • You cannot adjust the exposure manually with: – NightShot – [COLOR SLOW S] – [COLOR BAR] – When the AUTO LOCK switch is set to ON (p. 25) • If you set [PROGRAM AE], [EXPOSURE] is canceled. [WHITE BAL.] does not function.
  • Page 94 Troubleshooting (Continued) You cannot use [COLOR SLOW S]. • You cannot use [COLOR SLOW S] together with: – [FADER] – [D. EFFECT] – [PROGRAM AE] – [SHUTTR SPEED] – [COLOR BAR] – NightShot – [SPOT METER] – When [EXPOSURE] is anything other than [AUTO] –...
  • Page 95 – [PROGRAM AE] – When [ WIDE SELECT] of [DV SET] is set to [4:3] You cannot use [PICT. EFFECT]. • You cannot use [PICT. EFFECT] together with: – [COLOR BAR] – [OLD MOVIE] of [D. EFFECT] • [PICT. EFFECT] cannot be set to [SKNTON DETAIL] while using the BACK LIGHT function.

  • Page 96: Connecting To A Computer

    Troubleshooting (Continued) You cannot add sound to the recorded tape. • You cannot add sound to the recorded tape on this unit. New sound added to a recorded tape on another camcorder is not heard. • Adjust [ AUDIO MIX] from the [CH1, CH2] (original sound) side until the sound is heard appropriately (p.
  • Page 97 [Removable Disk] does not appear on the computer screen. • Slide the POWER switch down to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp, then set [USB SELECT] to [MEMORY STICK]. • Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder. • Disconnect the USB device other than the keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder from the (USB) jack on the computer.

  • Page 98: Warning Indicators And Messages

    Some symptoms you can fix by yourself.  (Battery level warning) If the problem persists even after you have tried a couple of times, contact your Sony • The battery pack is nearly used up. dealer or local authorized Sony service •...
  • Page 99 Fast flashing: Description of warning • The tape has run out.* messages  (Eject cassette warning)* If messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions. Slow flashing:  Battery • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p.104). Fast flashing: Use the “...
  • Page 100 Warning indicators and messages (Continued)  “Memory Stick Duo” No file. • No file is recorded or there is no readable file on the “Memory Stick Insert a Memory Stick (p. 17). Duo.” Reinsert the Memory Stick. Memory Stick folders are full. •...
  • Page 101  Flash Charging… Cannot record still images. • You are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional)  Others Cannot record due to copyright protection (p. 103). Change to correct tape format. • The pictures cannot be played back because of an incompatible format.

  • Page 102: Using Your Camcorder Abroad

    Using your camcorder abroad Power supply Viewing HDV format pictures recorded in HDV format You can use your camcorder in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor You need an HDV1080i compatible TV supplied with your camcorder within the (or monitor) with a component jack and AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range.

  • Page 103: Hdv Format And Recording/Playback

    HDV format and recording/playback Copyright signal Your camcorder is capable of recording in HDV/DVCAM/DV formats.  When you play back It is recommended to use a cassette with If the cassette you play back on your mark to record in the HDV/ camcorder contains copyright signals, you DVCAM/DV format.
  • Page 104 See the table below for the main To prevent accidental erasure 2004/05 models. Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to set it to SAVE. Sony TV models KLV-32M1, KLV-23M1, KLV-S23A10, KLV-S19A10, KDE55XBR950, KDE-50XS955, KDE-42XS955, KDE-37XS955, KE-42M1, KDF-60XS655, KDF-55XS655, KDF-60WE655,...

  • Page 105: Compatibility Of The Dvcam/Dv Format

    Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats The DVCAM format was developed as a Mini DVCAM and mini DV cassettes more reliable and higher-end format than The recording format of the picture is the consumer DV format. Explained here defined according to the recorder’s format are the differences, compatibility, and as described below.
  • Page 106 Compatibility of the DVCAM/DV formats (Continued) Compatibility on editing using DV Limitations on editing jacks You may find the following limitations when editing a tape produced by dubbing When this camcorder is connected to other or editing using the HDV/DV Interface digital video equipment using an i.LINK (i.LINK) jack: cable, the recording format of edited tapes...

  • Page 107: About The "Memory Stick

    About the “Memory Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable the combination of the “Memory Stick” and IC recording medium with a data capacity “Memory Stick” compliant product you use. that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. On a “Memory Stick Duo” with a You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,”...
  • Page 108 About the “Memory Stick” (Continued)  conform to the universal standard. (These On a location for use models are not sold in some regions.) Do not use or keep the “Memory Stick • If you cannot use a “Memory Stick Duo” Duo”...

  • Page 109: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack QM71D/QM91D (optional). • Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent playback, fast forward or rewind operation This unit is compatible with an wears out the battery pack faster. “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (M series). We recommend using a large capacity battery Your camcorder operates only with an pack: NP-QM71D/QM91D (optional).

  • Page 110: About I.link

    Interfaces, refer to the operating instructions of the device to be connected. • i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE 1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and is a trademark approved by many corporations. • IEEE 1394 is an international standard standardized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

  • Page 111: Maintenance And Precautions

    Before casing, unplug your camcorder and have it connecting to other devices, be sure to checked by a Sony dealer before operating it confirm whether the device is compatible any further. with an HDV/DVCAM (DV) device or not.

  • Page 112: Moisture Condensation

    The indicator will not appear when • If the following problem occurs, clean the video the moisture condenses on the lens. heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM- 12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).  If moisture condensation has occurred –...

  • Page 113: Rechargeable Battery

    Sony dealer or local authorized Sony Touch [CANCEL] to cancel. service facility to have the video head replaced. The position of the “×” changes. If you did LCD screen not press the right spot, start from step  again.

  • Page 114: Specifications

    Remote Commander black and white) may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

  • Page 115: Lcd Screen

    Output connectors Image device 5.9 mm (1/3 type) CMOS sensor Audio /Video 10-pin connector Gross: Approx. 2 969 000 Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω output pixels (ohms), unbalanced Effective (movie, 4:3): Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 1 486 000 pixels 75 Ω...
  • Page 116 Specifications (Continued) General Mass (approx.) 190 g (6.7 oz) main unit only Power DC 7.2 V (battery pack) * See the label on the AC Adaptor for other requirements DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor) specifications. Average power During camera recording using consumption the viewfinder with normal Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FM50)

  • Page 117: Identifying Parts And Controls

    Identifying parts and controls Power zoom lever (24)  PHOTO button (22)  CAMERA-TAPE, CAMERA-MEMORY,  PLAY/EDIT mode lamps (13) POWER switch (13)  “Memory Stick Duo” slot (17)  Access lamp (17, 107)  Active Interface Shoe (77)  Accessory shoe (19) ...
  • Page 118 Identifying parts and controls (Continued) Microphone (19)  AUTO LOCK switch (25)  XLR adaptor (19)  Battery pack (10)  Lens cover lever (21)  DC IN jack (77)  Lens hood with lens cover (9, 20)  Zoom buttons (24) ...
  • Page 119 REC CH INPUT INPUT +48V +48V SELECT LEVEL LEVEL CH1•CH2 LINE LINE INPUT1 INPUT2 Internal stereo microphone (27)  INPUT1 connector (19)  Zoom ring/focus ring (24, 25)  Grip belt (13)  Holes for the lens hood  Cassette compartment lid (17) ...

  • Page 120: Index

    Index Numeric BURST......... 49 Delete pictures ..... 74 Button-type lithium battery DIGITAL ZOOM... 48, 88 1080i/480i ......60 ..........114 DISPLAY/BATT INFO button 12-bit ........103 B&W ........54 ........15, 27 16-bit ........103 DISP GUIDE (Display guide) 480i ........60 ..........
  • Page 121 Focus ......25, 88 Indicators......30 FOCUS/ZOOM switch Indicators display ....28 Macintosh....78, 80, 81 ........24, 25 INDOOR ......44 Maintenance....... 111 Focus ring......25 “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack Manual focus......25 Folder ..........109 MARKER SET ....63 NEW FOLDER.....
  • Page 122 Index (Continued) Frame ......56 Review button ...... 28 Reverse ......56 NEG.ART......53 Slow ......56 NEW FOLDER....51 Playback frame by frame ..56 SD (standard definition) image NightShot ......24 quality ........33 Playing time ......12 NORMAL ......
  • Page 123 Tape playback select button Warning indicators ....98 ..........29 Warning messages....98 TC/UB SET......62 WB SHIFT (White Balance Telephoto......24 Shift) ........46 TELE MACRO button ... 25, 88 WHITE BAL. (White balance) ..........44 TIME/LANGU. menu..66 WHITE FADER....

  • Page 127: Notes On The License

    • Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. • HDV and the HDV logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. • Pentium is a trademark or registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
  • Page 128 Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan...

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