2-678-737-13(1) Digital HD Videocassette Recorder Operating Instructions HVR-M25U/M25N/M25E/M25P 2006 Sony Corporation
WARNING Important Safety Instructions To reduce 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. This unit must be connected to an earthed MAINS socket-outlet. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
For customers in the U.S.A. HVR-M25U only If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony’s Business Information Center (BIC) at 1-800686-SONY (7669) or Write to: Sony Customer Information Services Center 6900-29 Daniels Parkway, PMB 330 Fort Myers, Florida 33912 Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: Model: Responsible Party: Address: Telephone Number: SONY HVR-M25U Sony Electronics Inc. 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A.
Disposal of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment for business use (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems) This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable takeback scheme for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment.
Table of Contents Chapter1 Overview Features ............................................................................. 7 Location and Function of Parts ....................................... 9 Front Panel .......................................................................... 9 Rear Panel ......................................................................... 18 Supplied Remote Commander .......................................... 23 Displaying Various Data .......................................
Table of Contents Chapter5 Adjusting and Setting Through Menus Operating the Menus ...................................................... 65 Menu Organization ............................................................ 66 Menu Contents .................................................................. 67 Chapter6 Maintenance Troubleshooting .............................................................. 80 Warning indicators and messages ................................ 87 Notes on Use ...............
Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Overview Overview Features The HVR-M25U/M25N/M25E/M25P is a digital HD videocassette recorder supporting HDV format and DVCAM/DV format. The unit produces stable, superior picture quality by digital processing and separating image signals into color difference signals and a luminance signal (component video). The unit provides i.LINK ( HDV/DV) jack, HDMI OUT jack, COMPONENT OUT jacks, S VIDEO IN/OUT jacks, composite IN/OUT jacks, and AUDIO IN/OUT jacks.
Features Chapter 1 Overview High definition down convert function JOG AUDIO function When you want to playback a tape recorded in HDV format, you can down convert images to output them. This function allows you to preview recorded-images on a monitor which is not compatible with HighDefinition (HD) format. Also, you can select an aspect ratio from SQUEEZE, LETTER BOX (except HDV/ DV jack output), or EDGE CROP.
Location and Function of Parts Front Panel 2 KEY INH (key inhibit) switch Chapter 1 Overview qd Cassette compartment 1 q (cassette) indicator 4 Indicator section (see page 17) 3 Remote sensor qs EJECT (cassette eject) button 4 ON/STANDBY switch and lamp 3 Audio control section (see page 16) 5 TIMER switch 6 AUDIO OUTPUT SELECT switch 2 Tape transport control section (see page 14) 7 PHONE LEVEL control knob 8 PHONES jack 1 Monitor display section (see page 12) 9 INPUT SELECT switch q; INDEX/(A1) bu
Location and Function of Parts Chapter 1 Overview 5 TIMER switch Use to select Auto Repeat or recording using an external AC timer (not supplied). REPEAT: When the power is supplied to the unit, the tape rewinds to its beginning automatically and playback starts. When the following items on the tape are searched, AUTO REPEAT playback starts automatically.
q; INDEX/(A1) button Press this button to write an index mark while recording. Index is useful when you search for scenes on a tape. Also, this button can be used as ASSIGN (A1) button. Chapter 1 Overview For detail on Index, see “Recording Functions” on page 47. When you change ASSIGN buttons setting with [ASSIGN (A1)] of [ASSIGN BTN] in [OTHERS] menu, this button executes the function you have set. For details on ASSIGN buttons, see “ASSIGN BTN” on page 77.
Location and Function of Parts 1 Monitor display section Chapter 1 Overview 4 Indicator section (see page 17) 4 MENU button 1 DISPLAY button 5 J/j/K/k buttons 2 COUNTER SELECT button 6 EXEC (execute) button 3 RESET/(A2) (Counter reset) button 7 STATUS CHECK button 8 LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitor 1 DISPLAY button Change the text data displayed on LCD monitor or the text data output from video jacks on the rear panel of the unit.
4 MENU button Press this button to display the menu on screen. For details on the menu, see “Operating the Menus” on page 65. Chapter 1 Overview 5 J/j/K/k buttons Use these buttons in menu settings and other settings. You can adjust the brightness of images by pressing J/j buttons, while the data (format, the tape running mode) is displayed on the LCD screen. The display of the brightness level adjustment disappears in a second after the adjustment completes.
Location and Function of Parts 2 Tape transport control section 1 AUDIO DUB (audio dubbing)/ (A3) button / indicator Chapter 1 Overview 2 DUPLICATE PLUS button / indicator 3 REC (record) button / indicator 4 FF (fast forward) button / indicator 5 PLAY button / indicator 6 REW (rewind) button / indicator 7 STOP button 8 PAUSE button / indicator 1 AUDIO DUB (audio dubbing)/ (A3) button / indicator Use this button to dub sounds. The indicator lights while sounds are being dubbed.
Notes 4 FF (fast forward) button / indicator When you press this button, the indicator lights and the tape is fast forwarded. During fast forward, the picture does not appear on the monitor. (you can see the picture as it is seen in EE mode during fast forward.) To locate a scene while monitoring the picture, keep pressing this button during fast forward, playback or in playback pause mode (picture search). For details on [VTR SET] menu, see “VTR SET” on page 74.
Location and Function of Parts 3 Audio control section Chapter 1 Overview During normal recording, sounds are recorded onto channels 1 and 2; they cannot be recorded onto channels 3 and 4. During audio dubbing, sounds are dubbed onto channels 3 and 4. 1 AUDIO INPUT (AUTO/MANU) switch 2 AUDIO REC LEVEL control knob 1 AUDIO INPUT (AUTO/MANU) switch Switches the audio recording level adjustment mode. AUTO : Adjusts AUDIO REC LEVEL automatically. (Adjustment of AUDIO REC LEVEL control knobs 2 is disabled.
4 Indicator section 1 HDV indicator Chapter 1 Overview 2 DVCAM indicator 3 60 indicator 4 50 indicator 5 HDV-i.LINK indicator 6 DVCAM-i.LINK indicator 7 DV-i.LINK indicator 1 HDV indicator Lights when the unit is in the following operating status. • When a tape recorded in HDV format is being played back. • When HDV signals are input through the i.LINK interface. • When [HDV/DV SEL] in [IN/OUT REC] menu is set to [HDV].
Location and Function of Parts Rear Panel 1 S VIDEO jacks Chapter 1 Overview 7 RESET button 2 VIDEO jacks 8 AC IN connector 3 AUDIO jacks 4 AUDIO INPUT LEVEL switch 9 5 COMPONENT OUT jacks q; LANC jack 6 HDMI OUT jack qa CONTROL S jack 1 S VIDEO jacks To connect a device equipped with S video jack, use S VIDEO jacks on the unit. If you use S VIDEO jacks, you can input/output highquality video with less signals deterioration in quality than the one connected to the standard VIDEO jack.
When DISPLAY OUTPUT switch is set to ALL, text data such as time code, menu, and alarm message are superimposed on a monitor connected using COMPONENT OUT jacks (page 25). Notes • When images are output in 720p format, some of the text image data (outer frame: underscan portion) on the monitor may appear cut out. In this case, check the text image data on LCD monitor of the unit or on a monitor using S VIDEO OUT jack or the VIDEO OUT jack.
Location and Function of Parts Chapter 1 Overview 6 HDMI OUT jack Use to output HDMI signals. HDMI OUT jack outputs both pictures and audio. To connect a device which equipped HDMI input connector, use HDMI OUT jack on the unit. HDMI OUT jack outputs high-quality video with even less signal deterioration in quality than COMPONENT OUT jacks. You can set the output video format by using [HDMI/ CMPNT] of [VIDEO OUT] in [IN/OUT REC] menu.
For details, refer to the instruction manual of the external device. Notes • When you connect with the i.LINK cable to a computer and the unit, check the direction of the jack. If you forcibly insert the jack, the terminal may be damaged or cause the unit to malfunction. Align v mark of the i.LINK cable with V mark on the unit and insert the i.LINK cable. • This jack is only compatible with HDV (1080i)/ DVCAM/DV signals. For details, see “About i.LINK” on page 98.
Location and Function of Parts Notes on all video output jacks Chapter 1 Overview • When you change the video format setting of [HDMI/CMPNT] and [DOWN COVERT] of [VIDEO OUT] in [IN/OUT REC] menu, [ALLSCAN MODE] in [DISPLAY SET] menu, or [HDV t DV CONV] and [DOWN CONVERT] in [i.LINK SET], the image may be distorted for a moment. Also, the above settings may cause the restrictions on the video output of the unit. For details, refer to the table on page 85 and the instructions of each menu setting.
Supplied Remote Commander Chapter 1 Overview EJECT 1 EJECT button qs 1 switch qa DATA CODE button 0 INDEX WRITE button 2 SEARCH SELECT buttons × × × × 3 Buttons for playing at various speeds 4 PAUSE button 9 REC buttons 5 REW button 8 STOP button VTR RMT-DS5 6 PLAY button 7 FF button 1 EJECT button 8 STOP button 2 SEARCH SELECT buttons Press these buttons to search for scenes using the search function.
Location and Function of Parts Notes Chapter 1 Overview • The command mode of the supplied Remote Commander is set to VTR4. You cannot change command mode setting. • Set [COMMANDER] in [OTHERS] menu to [WIRELESS] to enable Remote Commander to control the unit. • In addition to Remote Commander supplied with the unit, the unit accepts signals from any Sony Remote Commander whose command mode is set to VTR4. To disable the control from Remote Commander, set [COMMANDER] in [OTHERS] menu to [CONTROL S].
Displaying Various Data In this operation manual, the menu screen etc. is displayed in English. You can change the desired language with the screen language setting. Data display You can confirm important information for normal recording or playback, such as time code or remaining tape time, on the screen. 6 7 1 TC 00 :12 : 34 :12 60min 2 3 4 5 HDV/DV IN sc A1 A2 A3 AUTO F 1.
Displaying Various Data Chapter 1 Overview 7 Time counter (time code/user bits/count value of the counter) indicator Displays the count value of the counter, time code, or user bits. By pressing the COUNTER SELECT button on the front panel, you can select the item to be displayed. When the time code is displayed, TC appears to its left. In the drop frame mode, a period is displayed between the minutes and seconds (i.e., 00:12.58:00). When the user bits are displayed, UB appears to their left.
Notes • In the playback mode, if the tape has a portion where recorded signals are not continuous: – The count value of the counter may not advance correctly from that portion. – The displayed value of the time code or user bits may be temporarily inaccurate. • When the unit plays back a part of the tape where the recorded system has been changed between 50i and 60i, the displayed value may be inaccurate.
Displaying Various Data (b) When AUDIO OUTPUT SELECT switch is set to MIX AUDIO 1/4 Chapter 1 Overview AUDIO MONI: CH1 , CH2 CHECK] : END [ STATUS (The mixed level of channels 1 and 3 is displayed on CH1/3; that of channels 2 and 4 is displayed on CH2/4. The audio output level becomes 50% (–6 dB) of the original audio levels.) OUTPUT screen OUPUT screen is displayed when STATUS CHECK is set to [OUTPUT].
1 REMAININNG : displays the estimated remaining time of CUSTOM REPEAT. Chapter 1 Overview 2 REPEAT TIMES : displays the times that tape has played, and the total repeat times you have set in [REPEAT TIMES]. 3 REPEAT CYCLE : displays the playback time and the interval time of the tape which you have set in [REPEAT CYCLE]. 4 START TIME : displays the time CUSTOM REPEAT starts which you have set in [START TIME].
Chapter 2 Playback and Recording Chapter 2 Playback and Recording Notes on Power Supply and Video Cassettes Usable cassettes To save a recording We recommend you to use a DigitalMasterTM cassette of standard HDV/DVCAM/DV cassette (such as PHDV-276DM), or mini HDV/DVCAM/DV cassette (PHDVM-63DM) for recording in HDV/DV format. We recommend you to use a standard DVCAM cassette, Mini-DVCAM cassette, or DigitalMasterTM shown above for recording in DVCAM format.
Preparing the Power Supply Connect the power cord (supplied) to the AC IN connector. Then, connect the power plug to the wall outlet. When you disconnect from the wall outlet, be sure to unplug the power plug from the wall outlet first. [CLOCK SET] screen appears when you turn on the unit for the first time. For details on [CLOCK SET], see page 78. • If the cassette does not load or is loaded only halfway, eject it once, then insert it again.
Notes on Power Supply and Video Cassettes On recording You cannot record or output EE signals and any software having copyright protection signals on the unit. If you start recording protected video and audio signals, a warning appears on the monitor screen and the unit stops recording. During recording, do not change INPUT SELECT switch setting. If you do so, the unit may mistakenly recognize that copyright control signals has been input.
Playback This section describes the connections and settings for the playback and functions such as playback at various speeds and searching for a specific scene on a recorded tape. Connections for Playback Connecting the unit to a monitor without an i.LINK jack Chapter 2 Playback and Recording You can connect the unit to video monitor without an i.LINK jack. Use the unit as follows.
Playback Notes Chapter 2 Playback and Recording • To playback the picture recorded in HDV format when you connect the monitor using an HDMI cable or a component video cable, set [HDMI/CMPNT] of [VIDEO OUT] in [IN/OUT REC] menu according to your monitor (page 68). When the picture recorded in DVCAM/DV format is played back, only a picture with a quality equivalent with DVCAM/DV format of 480i (NTSC) or 576i (PAL) is output via COMPONENT OUT jacks regardless of [HDMI/ CMPNT] setting.
For details, refer to your monitor’s instruction manual. • Some general consumer television sets are provided with a function to control equipment connected with the i.LINK cable. Such a function, however, may not work with the unit. Settings for Playback Preparation on the unit Notes • Text information is superimposed to VIDEO OUT jack, S VIDEO OUT jack, COMPONENT OUT jacks, and HDMI OUT jack. To output video signals without text data, set DISPLAY OUTPUT switch to OFF.
Playback Notes Playback Functions This section describes useful functions during playback. Displaying information (data codes) recorded on a tape Chapter 2 Playback and Recording If you record on a tape using a Sony digital HD video camera recorder or digital camcorder, the recording information (data codes) is recorded on the tape. The data codes consist of recording date/time and camera data (the shutter speed, SteadyShot, iris, white balance, program AE mode, gain, date and time).
Playing at various speeds You can playback a tape at various speeds using Remote Commander. HDV-formatted tape Panel/analog output Reverse Forward direction direction i.
Playback To hear the sound while playing at various speeds To hear the sound when playing at various speeds, set [JOG AUDIO] in [AUDIO SET] menu to [ON]. For details on [AUDIO SET] menu, see “AUDIO SET” menu on page 73. Note You cannot hear the sound while playing back a tape recorded in HDV format at various speeds. Chapter 2 Playback and Recording Searching using the search function The unit can immediately access the following signals recorded on a tape.
AUTO REPEAT (CUSTOM REPEAT) Set the desired number by pressing J/j button on the unit. REPEAT CYCLE To set the CUSTOM REPEAT Set the following sub menus of [CUSTOM REPEAT] in [VTR SET] menu. REPEAT TIMES ON/OFF : Selects either to enable or to disable REPEAT TIMES setting. TIMES : Sets the number of times to repeat playback. CYCLE 60min [ MENU] : END Press EXEC button to complete. To play back at START TIME, rewind a tape beforehand.
Playback Setting the AUTO REPEAT If [START TIME] is set to [OFF] 1 Set TIMER switch to REPEAT. s is displayed on Data display screen (page 25). 2 Press REW button. (If the tape is already rewound, press PLAY button.) Chapter 2 Playback and Recording The unit rewinds the tape to its beginning and starts playback automatically. When the following items on the tape are searched, AUTO REPEAT playback starts automatically.
To cancel the AUTO REPEAT Set TIMER switch to OFF. By using AUTO REPEAT, you can do the following as examples Repeat playbacks with 30 minutes interval : 1 Set [ON/OFF] of [REPEAT CYCLE] to [ON]. 2 Set [CYCLE] of [REPEAT CYCLE] to [30 min]. 3 Press REW or PLAY button. 1 Set [ON/OFF] of [REPEAT CYCLE] to [ON]. 2 Set [CYCLE] of [REPEAT CYCLE] to [120 min]. 3 Set [ON/OFF] of [REPEAT TIMES] to [ON]. 4 Set [TIMES] of [REPEAT TIMES] to [5]. 5 Set [ON/OFF] of [START TIME] to [ON].
Playback MARKER BURN The unit can output to each video jacks and display 4:3 screen marker on the 16:9 screen images. In case of making an editing tape from the original tape, [MARKER BURN] can be used. To set up MARKER BURN Chapter 2 Playback and Recording Set [MARKER BURN] in [DISPLAY SET] menu to [ON]. Notes • MARKER BURN is effective under the following conditions.
Using the Unit as a Videocassette Recorder This section describes the connections, settings and operations necessary to perform recording on the unit. The same settings and operations apply whether you are using the unit for dubbing. Notes Chapter 2 Playback and Recording • For connection of the editing devices, refer to the instruction manual of the editing controller and that of the editing software you use. • Edit functions are specified by the editing software.
Using the Unit as a Videocassette Recorder Notes Notes Chapter 2 Playback and Recording • If you connect the output connectors of the unit to the input connectors of the player, a humming noise may be generated or the image may be distorted. If these phenomena occur, set INPUT SELECT switch to a position where a signal is not currently being input, or disconnect the cables. • Distorted signals (i.e., when played back at a speed other than normal) may not be recorded or may be distorted.
• The unit cannot record MPEG2 signals except HDV1080i signals. • When you record HDV signals input from HDV/ DV jack, the connection between the recorded signals pause for a second. Settings for Recording Preparation on the recorder (the unit) Notes 1 Turn the power on the monitor, then set the monitor’s input according to the input signals. 2 Set up the player to play back a tape. For details, refer to the instruction manual of the player. 3 4 Turn the unit on.
Using the Unit as a Videocassette Recorder • When the signals are input through the i.LINK interface, the unit detects the field frequency of the input signal automatically. You do not need to change [60i/50i SEL] setting. When [60i/50i SEL] is set to [50i], however, the time code generated by the unit is fixed to the non-drop frame mode. Even when 60i system signals are input to the i.
Recording Procedures This section describes the procedures used to record signals sent from another VCR to the unit. For details on the operation when the unit is connected to a computer via HDV/DV jack, refer to “Editing (Connecting with a Computer)” (page 62). Insert a cassette and confirm that q (cassette) indicator lights up. 2 Press the playback button on the player. The player starts playback. 3 On the unit, press PLAY button while holding REC button down.
Using the Unit as a Videocassette Recorder AC timer recording By connecting the unit to an external AC timer (not supplied), you can start recording at a preset time. 1 Connect the unit to an external AC timer (not supplied). HVR-M25 (rear panel) Chapter 2 Playback and Recording Recording source (external tuner, etc.) VIDEO INPUT AC timer to an AC outlet 2 3 Insert a tape for recording. 4 Set TIMER switch on the front panel of the unit to REC. 5 Set the timer-on time on the connected AC timer.
3 Chapter Setting the Time Code Setting the Time Code and User Bits The unit can set, display, record and play back the time code and user bits. For details on the menu, see “Chapter 5 Adjusting and Setting Through Menus” on page 65. • When HDV signals are recorded from HDV/DV jack on the unit, user bits are copied automatically. However, these bits cannot be preset. The time code is set in accordance with [TC MAKE] setting.
Setting the Time Code and User Bits 2 Press J/j buttons to select [TC/UB SET], then press EXEC button. To cancel the time code setting Select [CANCEL] in step 7, then press EXEC button. The following menus are displayed. To reset the time code Select [RESET] in step 4, then press EXEC button. TC / UB SET RETURN TC PRESET UB PRESET HDV/DV IN TC TC RUN TC MAKE TC FORMAT [ MENU ] 3 00:00:00:00 To set the value of the user bits : END Press J/j buttons to select [TC PRESET], then press EXEC button.
4 Press J/j buttons to select [PRESET], then press EXEC button. The following menus are displayed. UB PRESET OK PRESET RESET [ MENU ] 00 00 00 00 : END 5 Set the first two digits. Press J/j buttons to select the number, then press EXEC button. 6 7 Repeat step 5 to set the rest of the digits. Press J/j buttons to select [OK], then press EXEC button. 8 Press J/j buttons to select [OK], then press EXEC button. The menu display returns to that of step 1.
Setting the Time Code and User Bits Notes • If you set the advancement mode to [FREE RUN], the time code will be updated by the internal clock while the unit’s power is off. The time code may have been delayed or advanced when if you turn on the unit power again, play back a tape, or set INPUT SELECT switch to HDV/DV. • If the internal backup battery charge is exhausted, the time code of FREE RUN setting will be initialized.
HVR-M25U/M25N/M25E/M25P time codes The unit has a HDV/DV jack. The time code displayed and recorded on the tape differs as shown below when INPUT SELECT switch is set to HDV/ DV and when it is set to other than HDV/DV.
4 Chapter Dubbing to another equipment using i.LINK jack, Duplication, Audio Dubbing, and Connecting with a Computer Dubbing to another equipment using i.LINK jack Chapter 4 Dubbing to another equipment using i.LINK jack, Duplication, Audio Dubbing, and Connecting with a Computer This section describes the connections and settings necessary to perform dubbing on other equipment, using the unit as a video player.
There are some limitations to down convert a tape recorded in HDV format to DVCAM format. Dubbing procedures For details, see “i.LINK SET” on page 69. 1 Notes • If you output pictures in the playback pause mode when connected with an i.LINK cable, recorded images may appear distorted. • When the tape is recorded in HDV format, the picture is output as a simplified picture during playback in various speeds (page 37). • When connected with an i.
Duplication (generating a work tape with the same time code) DUPLICATE PLUS is a dubbing function which duplicates the tape with time codes through i.LINK connection. By using DUPLICATE PLUS, it helps to make a work tape which contains the exact same time code that the original source tape contains. DUPLICATE PLUS is applicable with HDV1080i, DVCAM, and DV (SP) formats.
Notes Notes • Before you start duplication, make sure that the player has finished loading the cassette. • The duplication starts after the i.LINK connection is established so that the first part of the source tape is dropped on the copied tape. • If the player has functions such as auto repeat, set them to OFF. • If the player has a still timer function, set the still timer to the longest time to ensure enough time for rewinding the tape to the beginning.
Duplication (generating a work tape with the same time code) Duplicating a series of tapes Detecting a blank portion during duplication While pausing duplication mode, you can change the tape on the player. Therefore, you can duplicate a series of tapes on a single tape. To change the tapes 1 By playing back the tape on the player to the end or by pressing STOP button on the unit, confirm that the player enters the playback pause mode. During pause, the confirmation display appears.
Warning messages on duplication If an error occurs during duplication, a STOP/ CAUTION number and warning message will be displayed on LCD monitor and the video output screen. STOP/ CAUTION No. The following table lists these warnings and messages. If a warning message is displayed, check this table and take the appropriate action. Cause/Remedy RECORDER: INPUT SELECT is not set to HDV/DV. i.LINK : Cable not connected. INPUT SELECT switch on the recorder (the unit) is not set to HDV/DV.
Audio Dubbing You can record just sound on a recorded tape. (Audio dubbing) Notes • You can dub the sound onto a DVCAM-formatted tape recorded in the 32 kHz audio mode (4-channel/ 12 bits) only. You cannot dub the sound on a tape in the 48 kHz audio mode (2-channel/16 bits). If the audio mode of the recorded tape is 32 kHz, you can dub the sound regardless of [AUDIO MODE] setting in [AUDIO SET] menu. For details on “AUDIO MODE,” see “AUDIO SET” menu on page 73.
Dubbing sound 1 Connect AUDIO INPUT jack of the unit and the sound source using a phono jack cable (not supplied). 2 Set INPUT SELECT switch to a setting other than HDV/DV. 3 Switch AUDIO INPUT LEVEL switch to select the audio input signal level (–10, –2 or +4). 4 5 Play back the tape inserted in the unit. 6 At the point you want to start dubbing, press PAUSE button to turn the unit to the playback pause mode. To pause audio dubbing Press PAUSE button.
Editing (Connecting with a Computer) You can set up an editing system by connecting the unit to a computer (editing machine) using HDV/DV jack on the unit. • For details on the connecting method to the editing machine, refer to the supplied instruction manual of your editing unit. • The editing functions you can use depend on the editing software. For details on editing methods, refer to the instruction manual of your editing software.
Preparations Transferring picture data from the unit to a computer (editing machine) • To transfer the picture data recorded on a tape to an editing machine in HDV, set [HDV/DV SEL] in [IN/ OUT REC] menu to [HDV] (page 67), then set [HDVtDV CONV] of [i.LINK SET] in [IN/OUT REC] menu to [OFF] (page 69). • To transfer the picture data recorded on a tape in DVCAM (DV) to an editing machine, set [HDVtDV CONV] of [i.LINK SET] in [IN/OUT REC] menu to [OFF] (page 69).
Transferring picture data from a computer (editing machine) to the unit • To transfer the picture data recorded on a tape to an editing machine in HDV, set [HDV/DV SEL] in [IN/ OUT REC] menu to [HDV], then set [HDV t DV CONV] of [i.LINK SET] in [IN/OUT REC] menu to [OFF] (page 69). • To transfer the picture data to a computer (editing machine) in DVCAM (DV) format, set [HDV/DV SEL] to [DV] (page 67). Then, according to the desired recording format, set [ REC MODE] to [DVCAM] or [DV SP] (page 67).
5 Chapter Adjusting and Setting Through Menus Operating the Menus The unit allows you to set various parameters in the menus. Before you start using the unit, set the internal clock in [CLOCK SET] in [OTHERS] menu. Except for clock setting, you can use all other factory-set default parameters but change them as needed. Displaying the menu 1 2 Press MENU button. 3 Pressing J/j buttons, select the submenu you want to change, then press EXEC button. 4 5 6 Pressing J/j buttons, change the setting.
Operating the Menus Menu Organization The menu of the unit consists of the following menus and submenus. Chapter 5 Adjusting and Setting Through Menus IN/OUT REC HDV/DV SEL (page 67) REC MODE (page 67) VIDEO OUT (page 68) i.
Menu Contents Initial settings are indicated with rectangles. IN/OUT REC menu Icon/Menu Submenu IN/OUT REC HDV/DV SEL (page 34, 44, 54, 62) Setting Normally, set this menu to [AUTO]. Select this menu when you want to limit the output format during tape playback or limit the signals to be input or output from HDV/DV jack. This setting will affect analog outputs. AUTO : Automatically switches signals to HDV format or DVCAM/DV format during tape playback. When the i.
Operating the Menus Icon/Menu Submenu IN/OUT REC VIDEO OUT Setting Selects the mode of the video output jacks. HDMI/CMPNT Selects the output format from HDMI OUT jack and COMPONENT OUT jacks. Select from [480i], [480p/480i], [1080i/480i], or [720p/480i] when [60i/50i SEL] in [OTHERS] menu is set to 60i. Select from [576i], [576p/576i], [1080i/576i], or [720p/576i] when [60i/50i SEL] in [OTHERS] menu is set to 50i.
Icon/Menu Submenu IN/OUT REC i.LINK SET (pages 34, 54) Setting Adjusts the down conversion format. This menu is available when [HDV/DV SEL] is set to [AUTO] or [HDV]. HDV t DV CONV OFF : Disables down conversion. DVCAM : Down converts to DVCAM format. DV SP : Down converts to DV SP format. DOWN CONVERT This setting is available when [HDV t DV CONV] is set to [DVCAM] or [DV SP]. SQUEEZE : Plays back with compressed horizontal screen image and maintains all images on display. Images appear vertically long.
Operating the Menus Icon/Menu Submenu IN/OUT REC COLOR BAR Setting Selects whether to display color bars or not. Also, you may select color bars with or without tone signals (1 kHz full bit –20 dB at 60i, 1 kHz full bit –18 dB at 50i). OFF : Does not display color bars and no tone signals. ON : Displays color bars without tone signals. ON [TONE] : Displays color bars with tone signals. Notes • Color bars and tone signals are output from HDMI OUT jack, HDV/DV jack, and analog output jacks.
Icon/Menu Submenu IN/OUT REC EE/PB SEL (page 14) Setting Sets the stop, fast-forward and rewind modes. EE : Outputs EE picture and EE sound. PB : Mutes the image and sound. Note If this item is set to PB, the output from the unit will be as follows when you press any of the REC, DUPLICATE PLUS, or AUDIO DUB buttons separately when the unit is stopped (unless the cassette has been write-protected).
Operating the Menus Icon/Menu Submenu DISPLAY SET MARKER BURN (page 42) Setting Selects whether to output MARKER BURN or not. OFF : Does not output MARKER BURN. ON : Outputs MARKER BURN. Note There are some limitations to output MARKER BURN. For details, see page 42. ALLSCAN MODE Reduces the image on LCD panel to check the area surrounding the picture frame where the monitors can not display. OFF : Disables the ALLSCAN MODE. ON : Enables the ALLSCAN MODE. Notes • ALLSCAN MODE is for HDV format only.
Operating the Menus Icon/Menu Submenu DISPLAY SET LCD BLACK Setting Mutes the images on LCD panel and display only the text data. OFF : Does not mute the images ON : Mutes the images Note When [ON] is selected, the images output from the rear panel to the external monitor does not mute. AUDIO SET menu Icon/Menu Submenu Setting AUDIO SET AUDIO MODE Selects the audio mode. FS32K : Switches the audio mode to 4-channel mode (12-bit mode).
Operating the Menus VTR SET menu Icon/Menu VTR SET Submenu DUPLICATE PLUS (page 56) Setting Selects the video format and whether to use auto rewind or not while duplication. FORMAT SEL ALL : Duplicates all video formats. HDV1080i : Duplicates HDV1080i format only. DVCAM : Duplicates DVCAM format only. DV SP : Duplicates DV (SP) format only. AUTO REW ON : Rewinds the tape on both the player and the recorder, and starts duplication.
Icon/Menu VTR SET Submenu STILL TIME Setting Selects the time to switch to the tape protection mode from the still mode. 30 sec : 30 seconds 1 min : 1 minute 2 min: 2 minutes 3 min: 3 minutes Notes • If the unit is left in playback pause mode for a long time, the tape or the video heads may be damaged or the video heads may become clogged. Select the shortest time possible. Particularly, when using a Mini-DV cassette that is longer than 60 minutes, select [30 SEC] or [1 MIN].
Operating the Menus Icon/Menu Submenu TC/UB SET HDV/DV IN TC (page 49) Setting Selects whether to record internal time code or external time code while the unit records the signals input from HDV/DV jack. INTERNAL : Records the time code generated by the internal time code generator. (If [TC MAKE] is set to [REGENERATE] and no time code is recorded on the tape, the unit records time code from 00:00:00:00.
OTHERS menu Icon/Menu OTHERS Submenu Setting ASSIGN BTN Assigns a function other than the default functions to ASSIGN buttons (INDEX (A1) button, (pages 11, 12, RESET (A2) button, AUDIO DUB (A3) button). 14) The available functions of each ASSIGN button are as listed below.
Operating the Menus Icon/Menu OTHERS Submenu PB YNR Setting Selects the noise reduction level for the luminance signals when a tape is played. OFF : No noise reduction LOW : Low noise reduction HIGH : High noise reduction Notes • When you use noise reduction, there may be an afterimage depending on the condition of the picture. • Noise reduction is also available with pictures output from HDV/DV jack. Use caution when dubbing and editing a picture in HDV/DV.
Icon/Menu OTHERS Submenu 60i/50i SEL (page 45) Setting Switches to 1080/60i (NTSC) or 1080/50i (PAL). 1 Press J/j buttons to select [YES], then press EXEC button. 60i/50i SEL Change to 50i? Reboots after change. YES NO 2 Press J/j buttons to select [YES] again, then press EXEC button. INITIALIZE Resets the menu to preset settings except CLOCK SET. 1 Press J/j buttons to select [YES], and then press EXEC button. INITIALIZE Reset all settings except "CLOCK SET" to defaults.
6 Chapter Maintenance Troubleshooting Please check the following before contacting your Sony dealer. General Operation Troubles Chapter 6 Maintenance Symptom Cause/Remedy A menu item is not available. • The KEY INH switch is set to ON. t First, set the switch to OFF, then adjust the menu. • There are menus that cannot be used depending in [IN/OUT REC] menu setting. t Change [IN/OUT REC] menu settings (page 67). • Some menu items are only available in EE mode or playback mode.
Symptom Cause/Remedy Whenever you connect the unit to an AC outlet, the unit turns on automatically. • [AC ON MODE] in [OTHERS] menu is set to [ON]. t Set [AC ON MODE] to [STANDBY]. • There is a cassette inside the unit and TIMER switch is set to REPEAT or REC. t Set TIMER switch to OFF. No picture on LCD monitor. • [LCD BLACK] in [DISPLAY SET] menu is set to [ON]. t Set it to [OFF]. • With an analog connection, the current setting of [60i/50i SEL] in [OTHERS] menu is not appropriate.
Troubleshooting Symptom Cause/Remedy The cassette memory data and title are not displayed when using a cassette tape with the cassette memory function. • The unit does not support the cassette memory function and therefore such data is not displayed. The remaining tape time is not displayed. t To always display the remaining tape time, set [ SET] menu to [ON]. REMAINING] in [DISPLAY Output/Playback Symptom Cause/Remedy Chapter 6 Maintenance Cannot playback.
Symptom A user bit is not displayed correctly during fast-forward/rewind. Cause/Remedy • When input video signals without a user bit are recorded while HDV is input to i.LINK, the user bit is not displayed correctly. Either “–– –– –– ––” or “00 00 00 00” is displayed during playback and fast-forward/rewind, respectively. “– – – – – – ” appears on the date display • The tape has been played back without setting the date and time. (page 36). t Set the date and time.
Troubleshooting Symptom Cause/Remedy When the tape is rewound to its beginning, • TIMER switch is set to REPEAT. the playback automatically starts. t Set TIMER switch to OFF. • You pressed PLAY button while holding REW button down. t If you do this, the unit rewinds the tape to its beginning and begins playback (See page 15). During playback, the unit starts rewinding suddenly. • TIMER switch is set to REPEAT.
Symptom Cause/Remedy The output from S VIDEO OUT jack and The output from S VIDEO jack and VIDEO jack is set as follows. VIDEO OUT jack is different from [DOWN • When the playback format is set shown below, the output from S VIDEO jack or CONVERT] setting of [VIDEO OUT] in [IN/ VIDEO jack is fixed in EDGE CROP. OUT REC]. Menu item Setting Playback format HDV (HDV1080i) [VIDEO OUT] in [IN/OUT REC] [DOWN CONVERT] SQUEEZE or LETTER BOX [HDMI/CMPNT] 480p/480i, 576p/576i [i.
Troubleshooting Symptom Cause/Remedy When you set AUDIO INPUT LEVEL switch: • You do not know how to adjust the input level. • The recorded level is too low. • The recorded sound is distorted. Confirm the level of the sound output from the player by referring to the player’s instruction manual. According to that output level, set AUDIO INPUT LEVEL switch on the rear panel of the unit so as to obtain an optimum level. If you are not clear about the player’s output level, try the following procedures.
Warning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning Indicators The following alarm indicators may appear on LCD monitor or an external monitor. For further information about each symptom and recovery method, see the relevant page indicated in the parentheses. Message/Alarm Indicator C:ss:ss/E:ss:ss (Self-diagnosis display) Cause/Corrective Action If an error still recurs after you retry the corrective actions several times, contact Sony Customer Service or your place of purchase.
Warning indicators and messages Alarm Messages The following alarm messages will appear together with the alarm indicators. Take corrective action according to the displayed message. Item Message Cause/Corrective Action Moisture condensation % Z Moisture condensation. Eject the cassette. t See page 91 for details. % Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H. t See page 91 for details. Q Insert a cassette. t See page 31. Z Reinsert the cassette. • Check for damage on a tape or other irregularities.
Notes on Use Notes on the Videocassette Recorder Do not use the unit in a place subject to direct sunlight or heat sources If you do, its cabinet, mechanical parts, etc., may be damaged. Do not place the unit in humid places Do not place the unit in places where they may be exposed to water-splash or to humidity. Do not place water-filled containers or vases on the unit. Doing so may cause the unit malfunction.
Notes on Use Every 50 hours If you repeat the tape transport operation, the video heads will become dirty and coated with fine dirt or dust. Clean the heads every 50 hours. After using a tape prone to clog the heads After using such a tape causes the symptoms illustrated below, clean the heads. When the symptoms caused by clogged video heads appear Even if you clean the heads periodically, clogging of the heads may occur anyway. Clean the heads when: • mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture.
Cleaning the terminal If the gold-plated terminals of a cassette become dirty, or dirt accumulates on the terminals, the correct remaining tape time may not be displayed. Clean the terminal with a swab once every ten times you eject a cassette. Terminal When affixing a label to the cassette Be sure to affix a label only on the correct location so as not to cause malfunction of the unit. Storing cassettes • After using the tape rewind it, put it in its case and store vertically.
Digital Hours Meter The digital hours meter keeps cumulative counts of the total operation time, the head drum rotation time, the tape running time and the number of unthreading operations. These counts can be displayed on the menu. Use them as guidelines for scheduling maintenance. In general, consult your Sony dealer about necessary periodic maintenance checks. The digital hours meter has the following four display modes and you can check them in [HOURS METER] of [OTHERS] menu (page 78).
Appendix Compatibility of HDV, DVCAM, and DV Formats HDV format is an HD VCR format based on DV format of the globally widespread general consumer digital VCR system. This format has the newly defined data recording specifications for HD signals compressed by MPEG2. It applies the same cassette, tape speed, and track pitch as DV format. The differences, compatibility, and restrictions in editing of HDV1080i, DVCAM, and DV formats are explained below.
Compatibility of HDV, DVCAM, and DV Formats Playback compatibility The compatibility between playback tape format and player is summarized in the table below. Player Playback tape format HDV1080i format model (The unit) DV format model DVCAM format model DV Playback is possible. (Some equipment cannot play a tape recorded in the LP mode.) Only playback of a tape recorded in SP mode is possible. Some equipment can play a tape recorded in LP mode.
Dubbing with S VIDEO or VIDEO jacks When you use the unit as a recorder to perform dubbing between the unit and another equipment using S VIDEO jack and VIDEO jack, the format to be used for recording is set in accordance with [ REC MODE] setting in [IN/OUT REC] menu. For details, see the following table. Playback and editing of a tape may be restricted for some dubbing methods. Read Chapter 4 “Dubbing to another equipment using i.
Compatibility of HDV, DVCAM, and DV Formats Dubbing with HDV/DV jack When you perform dubbing between the unit and digital video equipment connected with the i.LINK cable using the unit as a player, HDV/DV jack output format is determined in accordance with the playback tape format and menu setting of the unit. If you use the unit as a recorder, the format of a tape used for recording is determined in accordance with HDV/ DV jack input format and menu setting of the unit.
Recording tape when the unit is used as a recorder i.
About i.LINK The HDV/DV jack provided on the unit is an i.LINK-compliant jack. This section describes the i.LINK standard and its features. What is i.LINK? i.LINK is a digital serial interface for sending and receiving digital video, digital audio, and other data between the unit and other equipment equipped with an i.LINK terminal. You can also control other equipment using i.LINK. i.LINK-compatible equipment can be connected using an i.LINK cable.
Specifications System Video/Audio recording/playing head system Rotating dual-head helical scan Audio recording format (HDV) MPEG-1 Audio Layer2 16-bit 48 kHz (stereo) Transfer rate 384 kbps Audio recording format (DVCAM (DV)) 12-bit Fs32K (Channel 1/2, Channel 3/4) 16-bit Fs48K (Channel 1/2) Video signal 1080/60i, NTSC color, EIA standard system 1080/50i, PAL color, CCIR standard system Usable cassettes Standard DVCAM cassettes with mark Mini DVCAM cassettes with mark Tape speed (HDV) Approx. 18.
COMPONENT OUT jacks OUT BNC type Output at 480i NTSC With [BETACAM] selected in [IN/OUT REC] menu Y: 1.0 Vp-p (with 0.286 Vp-p sync negative, output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced) Pb/Cb/B-Y, Pr/Cr/R-Y: 0.7 Vp-p (output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced) (75% color bars with 7.5 IRE setup) With [SMPTE] selected in [IN/OUT REC] menu Y: 1.0 Vp-p (with 0.3 Vp-p sync negative, output impedance 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced) Pb/Cb/B-Y, Pr/Cr/R-Y: 0.
Approx. 212 × 98 × 390.3 mm (8 3/8 × 3 7/8 × 15 3/8 inches) (w/h/d, including projecting parts and controls) 8.7 ( 11/32) 380.7 (15) 284 (11 1/4) 9.6 (13/32) Dimensions 175 (7) 10 (13/32) 88 (3 1/2) 212 (8 3/8) Unit: mm (inches) Mass Approx. 4.3 kg (9 lb. 7 5/8 oz.) Supplied accessories Remote Commander (1) Power cord (1) Size AA batteries (2) Cleaning cassette (1) Operating Instructions (1) Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Index L A Alarm message ...................................... 88 LANC jack ............................................ 21 Audio dubbing ....................................... 60 LCD monitor ......................................... 13 Audio mode ........................................... 27 Lock mode ............................................. 93 M C Camera data ........................................... 36 Menu ...................................................... 66 Cassette ............
Submenu Index Numerics H 480i LEVEL .......................................... 71 HDV/DV IN TC .................................... 76 60i/50i SEL ............................................ 79 HDV/DV SEL ....................................... 67 V VIDEO OUT ......................................... 68 HOURS METER ................................... 78 A AC ON MODE ...................................... 78 I ALLSCAN MODE ................................ 72 i.LINK SET ...........................
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