3-088-339-11(1) Camera Operations Guide [US] Camera Operations Guide Read this first Digital Video Camera Recorder DCR-HC30/HC40 © 2004 Sony Corporation
Read this first Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA CAUTION TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT. RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable.
For customers in the U.S.A. If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222-SONY (7669) The number below is for FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: DCR-HC30 Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 680 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell, NJ 07649 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 201-930-6972 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
• Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot be provided, even if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of the camcorder, storage media, etc. • TV color systems differ depending on the countries/ regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV. • Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the copyright laws.
• Be careful not to press buttons on the LCD frame accidentally when you open or close the LCD panel, or when you adjust the angle of the LCD panel. • Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.
Table of Contents : Features available for tape only. : Features available for “Memory Stick Duo” only. Read this first ............................................................................................. 2 Quick Start Guide Recording movies .................................................................................... 10 Recording still images .............................................................................. 12 Recording/Playing back with ease ................................
Adjusting the exposure............................................................................. 37 Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects ............................................................... 37 Fixing the exposure for the selected subject – Flexible spot meter .......................... 37 Adjusting the exposure manually .............................................................................. 38 Recording in dark places – NightShot plus, etc. ......................................
Advanced operations Using the Menu Selecting menu items ........................ 62 Using the (CAMERA SET) menu – PROGRAM AE/WHITE BAL./16:9 WIDE, etc. .................................... 64 Using the (MEMORY SET) menu – BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc. ............................................... 70 Using the (PICT. APPLI.) menu – PICT. EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/ FRAME REC/INTERVAL REC/INT. REC–STL, etc. ............................. 74 Connecting to a VCR or TV ...............
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ...............................112 Warning indicators and messages ...120 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ..........124 Usable cassette tapes .....................125 About the “Memory Stick” ................126 About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack ............................................129 About i.LINK .....................................130 Maintenance and precautions ..........131 Specification ....................................
Quick Start Guide Recording movies 1 Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder. To charge the battery, see page 16. Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. 2 Insert a cassette into the camcorder. a Slide the OPEN/ ZEJECT lever in the direction of the arrow to open the lid. The cassette compartment comes out automatically.
3 Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen. The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 22. a Set the LENS COVER switch to OPEN. b Open the LCD panel. Quick Start Guide c While pressing the green button, slide the POWER switch down to light up the CAMERA-TAPE lamp. The power turns on. d Press REC START/ STOP. Recording starts. To change to standby mode, press REC START/STOP again. You can also use REC START/STOP of the LCD panel.
Recording still images 1 Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder. To charge the battery, see page 16. Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks. 2 Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into the camcorder. Insert it so that the b mark is at the bottom left corner. Push in until it clicks.
3 Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen. The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 22. a Set the LENS COVER switch to OPEN. b Open the LCD panel. Quick Start Guide c While pressing the green button, slide the POWER switch repeatedly until the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp lights up. The power turns on. d Press PHOTO lightly. A short beep sound is heard when the focus is adjusted. e Press PHOTO fully.
Recording/Playing back with ease By switching to Easy Handycam operation, recording/playback operation becomes even easier. Easy Handycam operation allows easy recording/ playback for even first time users by providing only the basic functions for recording/playback. Press EASY when recording/ playing back. EASY lights up in blue (1) and screen font size increases (2) during Easy Handycam operation. Easy Handycam operation ON For details, see instructions for each operation.
Getting started Wireless Remote Commander (1) A button-type lithium battery is already installed. Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure you have following items supplied with your camcorder. A/V connecting cable (1) The number in parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. Getting started “Memory Stick Duo” 8MB (1) You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,” which is about half the size of a standard “Memory Stick,” in your camcorder. See page 126 for details.
Step 2: Charging the battery pack 2 With the v mark on the DC plug facing down, connect the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your camcorder. You can charge the battery by attaching the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) to your camcorder. b Notes • You cannot use batteries other than the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 129). • Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminals with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction.
After charging the battery The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack. To remove the battery pack BATT (battery) release button POWER switch 1 Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). 2 Open the LCD panel. 3 Press DSPL/BATT INFO. The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the button pressed to view it for about 20 seconds.
Recording time when recording with the LCD screen on Recording time when recording with the viewfinder Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25°C (77°F). With LCD BACKLIGHT set to ON For DCR-HC40: Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25°C (77°F).
For DCR-HC30: Battery pack LCD panel opened* LCD panel closed NP-FP50 (supplied) 120 140 NP-FP70 255 295 NP-FP90 455 525 * With LCD BACKLIGHT set to ON. Step 3: Turning the power on You need to slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the desired power mode to record or play. When using this camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 22).
To turn off the power Slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG). Set the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE. Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder Adjusting the LCD panel You can adjust the angle and brightness of the LCD panel to meet various recording situations. Even when there are obstructions between you and the subject, you can check the subject on the LCD screen during recording by adjusting the angle of the LCD panel.
[MENU], (STANDARD SET) menu, then touch [LCD/VF SET] (p. 84). 3 Adjust the item with touch / , then . When you are recording on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo,” you can adjust the exposure (p. 37) and fader (p. 42) while checking the image on the viewfinder. Have the LCD panel rotated 180 degrees and closed with the screen facing out. 1 Set the power mode to CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERA-MEMORY (p. 19). 2 Extend the viewfinder, and close the LCD panel with the screen facing out. appears on the screen.
Step 5: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder. 4 Touch [MENU]. – :– – :– – 60min CAMERA SET PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE 5 b Note • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable button-type battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory.
Step 6: Inserting the recording media 2 Insert a cassette with its window-side facing up. Window-side Inserting a cassette tape b Note • Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This may cause a malfunction of your camcorder. 1 Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly. 3 lever Press . The cassette compartment automatically slides back in. Slide the OPEN/ZEJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.
Inserting a “Memory Stick Duo” For details on the “Memory Stick Duo” (such as write-protection), see page 126. b Note • You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,” which is about half the size of a standard “Memory Stick,” in your camcorder (p. 126). Do not try to force any other type of “Memory Stick” into the “Memory Stick Duo” slot. Access lamp b mark Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” with the b mark at the bottom left corner until it clicks.
Step 7: Setting the screen language You can select the language to be used on the LCD screen. 5 Select the desired language with , then touch . / z Tip • Your camcorder offers [ENG [SIMP]] (simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue among the options. Getting started POWER switch 1 Turn on your camcorder. 2 Open the LCD panel. 3 Touch 60min 1/3 4 . STBY MENU EXPO– SURE FADER FOCUS SPOT FOCUS SPOT METER 0:00:00 Touch [LANGUAGE].
Recording 3 Recording movies Select the recording mode. To record on a tape Slide the POWER switch until the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to the standby mode. You can record movies on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo.” Before recording, follow steps 1 to 7 in “Getting started” (p. 15 to p. 25). When you are recording on a tape, movies will be recorded along with stereo sound. When you are recording on a “Memory Stick Duo,” the movie will be recorded with monaural sound.
Indicators displayed during recording on a tape Indicators displayed during recording on a “Memory Stick Duo” The indicators will not be recorded on the tape. Date/time and the camera settings data (p. 57) will not be displayed during recording. The indicators will not be recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” Date/time (p. 57) will not be displayed during recording.
• When you are recording on a “Memory Stick Duo” with an external flash (optional) connected to the accessory shoe, turn off the power of the external flash to prevent charging noise being recorded. z Tips • If you do not use your camcorder for a long time, remove the cassette and store it. • You can also use REC START/STOP of the LCD panel to record moving pictures. It is useful when you record from a low-angle or record yourself in the mirror mode.
Using zoom When the CAMERA-TAPE mode is selected, you can choose zoom to magnification levels greater than 10 times, and from that point activate the digital zoom ([DIGITAL ZOOM], p. 68). Occasional use of the zoom is effective, but use it sparingly for best results. Recording in mirror mode You can turn the LCD panel towards the subject so that you and your subject can share the image being recorded.
4 Using the self-timer With the self-timer, you can start recording after a delay of about 10 seconds. Press REC START/STOP. You will hear a beep sound counting down for about 10 seconds (The count down indication begins from 8). The recording starts. To stop recording, press REC START/ STOP. REC START/STOP To cancel the count down Touch [RESET] or press REC START/STOP. To cancel the self-timer Follow steps 1 and 2, then select [OFF] in step 3. REC START/STOP 1 Touch 2 Touch [SELF-TIMER]. .
Recording still images 4 Press and hold PHOTO lightly. You will hear a light beeping sound when the focus and brightness settings are adjusted. Recording does not start at this point. – Memory photo recording The indicator stops flashing. You can record still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Before recording, follow steps 1 to 7 in “Getting started” (p. 15 to p. 25). The number of images that can be recorded.
Indicators displayed during recording 60min The number of pictures you can record on a “Memory Stick Duo” varies depending on the quality/size of the image and the recording environment. Refer to the following list for the approximate number of pictures that can be recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” formatted on your camcorder. 1152 FINE 101 P-MENU When the image quality is [FINE] (number of images) The image size of 1152 × 864 for DCR-HC40 is 500kB, that of 640 × 480 is 150kB.
4 Using the self-timer With the self-timer, you can record a still image after a delay of about 10 seconds. Press PHOTO. You will hear a beep sound counting down for about 10 seconds (The count down indication begins from 8). The image is recorded. When bars of disappear, the image is recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” PHOTO PHOTO To cancel the count down Touch [RESET]. To cancel the self-timer 1 Touch 2 Touch [SELF-TIMER]. Recording Follow steps 1 and 2, then select [OFF] in step 3. .
Recording a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo” while recording movies on a tape PHOTO Recording with ease – Easy Handycam With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are set to automatic mode, only basic functions become available, and screen font size increases for easy viewing. Even first time users can enjoy easy recording. Before recording, follow steps 1 to 7 in “Getting started” (p. 15 to p.
3 Slide the POWER switch until the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up. Slide the POWER switch while pressing the green button. 4 Press EASY. Easy Handycam operation ON 5 Press EASY again. b Notes • You cannot turn Easy Handycam operation on or off during: – Recording – USB Streaming • During Easy Handycam operation, the following buttons are not available. – LCD BACKLIGHT(p. 20) – BACK LIGHT(p.
6 Press PHOTO fully. A shutter sound is heard. When bars of disappear, the image is recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” To turn the power off 1 Slide the POWER switch up to the OFF Making full use of Easy Handycam operation 1 The available menu items are displayed on the screen. (CHG) position. Example: In the CAMERA-MEMORY mode 2 Set the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE. 60min To cancel Easy Handycam operation 30 SELFTIMER Press EASY again.
Adjusting the exposure The exposure is adjusted automatically in the default setting. Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects You can adjust and fix the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded in suitable brightness even when there is strong contrast between the subject and the background (such as subjects in the limelight on stage). 1 Touch during recording or in the standby mode. 2 Touch [SPOT METER].
b Notes • You cannot use the Flexible spot meter together with: – NightShot plus function – Super NightShot plus function – Color Slow Shutter function • If you set [PROGRAM AE], [SPOT METER] is automatically set to [AUTO]. z Tip • If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. Adjusting the exposure manually 4 Adjust the exposure by touching (dim)/ (bright), then touch 60min STBY .
Recording in dark places – NightShot plus, etc. ON. and [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] appear. 3 Touch . 4 Touch [SUPER NSPLUS]. If the item is not displayed on the screen, touch / . If you cannot find it, touch [MENU], and select it from the (CAMERA SET) menu. 5 Touch [ON], then . and [“SUPER NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] appear. To cancel Super NightShot plus, follow steps 3 and 4, then select [OFF] in step 5. Or, set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to OFF.
E:\Documents and Settings\Y3n-tsubokura\Desktop\1202From_Koda\3088339111 DCRHC30HC40\01UC04REC.fm master:Right • When using the Super NightShot plus or Color Slow Shutter function, the shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness. The motion of the picture may slow down at this time. • Adjust the focus manually when it is hard to focus automatically. • Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or other objects. Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.
To adjust the focus automatically Follow steps 1 and 2, then touch [AUTO] in step 3. Or set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 41). b Note • You cannot use the SPOT FOCUS function together with [PROGRAM AE]. 3 Touch [MANUAL]. 9 appears. 4 Touch z Tip • If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. Adjusting the focus manually 60min FOCUS: – To record a subject behind a window covered with raindrops. – To record horizontal stripes.
Recording a picture using various effects [OVERLAP] (fade in only) [WIPE] (fade in only) [DOT FADER] (fade in only) POWER switch 1 Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA-TAPE mode. 2 Touch in the standby mode (to fade in) or during recording (to fade out). 3 Touch [FADER]. Fading in and out of a scene – FADER You can add the following effects to currently recording pictures. [BLACK FADER] If the item is not displayed on the screen, touch / .
4 5 Select Touch the desired effect, then touch . When you touch [OVERLAP], [WIPE] or [DOT FADER], the image on the tape in your camcorder is stored as a still image. (While storing the image, the screen turns to blue.) 60min STBY 0:00:00 MOSAIC FADER (previous)/ (next) to select the still image to be superimposed. 7 Touch [ON], then . 8 Touch . 9 Press REC START/STOP to start The fader indicator stops flashing and disappears when the fade is complete.
[SLOW SHUTTR] (slow shutter) You can slow down the shutter speed. This mode is suitable for shooting a subject more clearly in a dark place. [OLD MOVIE] You can add an old movie-type atmosphere to pictures. Your camcorder automatically records pictures in the letterbox mode for all screen size, sepia in color, and at a slower shutter speed. 1 Slide the POWER switch to select the CAMERA-TAPE mode. 2 Touch 3 . Touch [D. EFFECT]. STBY OFF OFF STILL FLASH LUMI.
Overlaying still images on movies on a tape – MEMORY MIX You can superimpose a still image you have recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” over the movie you are currently recording on a tape. You can then record the superimposed pictures on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo.” (You cannot superimpose a still image on a tape which you have already finished recording.
6 Touch the desired effect. The still image is superimposed on the movie which is currently displayed on the LCD screen. 60min MEMORY MIX: z Tip • The supplied SPVD-012 USB Driver CD-ROM contains sample images for use in MEMORY MIX operations. Refer to the supplied “Computer Applications Guide” for details. 0:00:00 STBY CAM M CHROMA 101 101–0001 OK 7 Touch (decrease)/ to adjust the following. (increase) For [MTCAM LUMI.
Searching for the starting point 3 Touch . 60min END SEARCH 1 0:00:00 EXECUTING CANCEL Appears only with a cassette with Cassette Memory The last scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished. Recording To cancel the operation Touch [CANCEL].
3 Keep touching (to go backward)/ (to go forward) and release it at the point where you want the recording to start. Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes – Rec review You can view a few seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped the tape. 1 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the CAMERA-TAPE mode. 2 Touch 60min . STBY 0:00:00 EDIT 3 Touch once. The last few seconds of the most recently recorded scene are played back. Then, your camcorder is set to the standby mode.
Playback 3 Viewing movies recorded on a tape Make sure you have a recorded cassette inserted into your camcorder. Some of the operations are possible using the Remote Commander or using the touch panel. When you want to play back recordings on your TV, see page 59. Touch (rewind) to go to the point you want to view. 60min 0:00:00:00 60min P-MENU 4 Touch (play) to start playback. Playback To adjust the volume 1 Touch . 2 Touch [VOLUME]. If the item is not displayed on the screen, touch / .
Indicators displayed during tape playback To resume fast forwarding or rewinding, release the button. To play back in various modes 60min 0:00:00:15 60min You will not hear the recorded sound. Also, you may see mosaic-like images of the previously played picture remaining on the screen. 1 During playback or playback pause, touch .
Viewing recordings with added effects – Digital effect You can apply [STILL], [FLASH], [LUMI. KEY], and [TRAIL] effects when viewing recorded pictures. For details on each effect, see page 43. To cancel Digital effect Follow steps 2 to 4, then select [OFF] in step 5. b Note • You cannot add effects to externally input pictures. Also, you cannot output pictures edited with digital effects via the DV Interface.
Viewing recordings on a “Memory Stick Duo” You can view pictures one at a time on the screen. When you have a lot of pictures, you can list them to search through them easily. Make sure you have a recorded “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. When you want to play back a recorded picture on your TV, see page 59. 3 Touch . The most recently recorded picture appears on the screen. 60min 101–0001 1152 1 / 10 101 MEMORY PLAY P-MENU 4 Touch (previous)/ select a picture.
Indicators displayed during “Memory Stick Duo” playback 60min 101–0010 1152 10 / 10 101 0:00:00 b Notes • Folders that you have created on a computer, renamed folders, and modified pictures may not appear on the screen. • While playing back movies on a “Memory Stick Duo,” the only menu items available will be those with short cuts on the Personal Menu. In order to use other menu items, add them to the Personal Menu.
To display 6 pictures at a time, including movies – Index Screen Touch . Previous 6 pictures N mark* END 101–0002 2 / 10 Next 6 pictures Playing back with ease – Easy Handycam 101 SET Movie icon Easy Handycam operation allows easy playback for even first time users by providing only the basic functions for playback. Also screen font size increases for easy viewing. Make sure you have a recorded cassette or a recorded “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder.
4 Play back pictures. Select the desired setting. For [CLOCK SET] 1 Set [Y] (year) with / , then touch . 2 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour and minutes in the same way as [Y] (year), then touch . When playing back on a “Memory Stick Duo” Touch . The following buttons can be operated. (previous)/ (next)/ (play/ pause for movie)/ (delete) You can control playback with the Remote Commander. For [LANGUAGE] Select the desired language with then touch . Press EASY again.
Various playback functions 3 Touch [MENU]. 4 Select (PICT. APPLI.), then [PB ZOOM] by touching / and touch . You can magnify a small subject in a recording and display it on the screen. You can also display the recorded date and the name of the folder in which the picture is recorded. Tape playback zoom screen PB ZOOM 0:00:00:00 Play back the image.
To cancel the operation Touch [END]. b Notes • You cannot use Tape PB zoom together with: – Digital effect – Picture effect ([PICT. EFFECT]) • You cannot magnify externally input pictures. Also, you cannot output the magnified pictures via the DV Interface. z Tip • If you press DSPL/BATT INFO during the playback zoom operation, the frame will disappear.
To hide the date/time or camera settings data Follow steps 2 and 3, and select [OFF] in step 4. Camera settings data display In the date/time data display, the date and time is displayed in the same area. If you record the picture without setting the clock, [--- -- ----] and [--:--:--] will appear. 60min 0:00:00:00 AUTO 100 AWB F1.
Playing the picture on a TV A/V jack Connect your camcorder to a TV using the supplied A/V connecting cable as shown in the following illustration. Connect the supplied AC Adaptor to the wall outlet for the power supply (p. 16). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. To copy to another tape, see page 93.
Locating a scene on a tape for playback Searching quickly for a desired scene – Zero set memory m REW 4 Press PLAY. The playback starts from the point designated “0:00:00” on the tape counter. To cancel the operation Press ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander again. b Notes • There may be a discrepancy of several seconds between the time code and the tape counter. • Zero set memory will not function correctly if there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape.
3 Press .(previous)/> (next) on the Remote Commander to select a title that you want to play. 1 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. Playback starts automatically from the selected title. 2 Press SEARCH M. on the Remote Commander repeatedly to select [DATE SEARCH]. 3 Press . (previous)/> (next) on the Remote Commander to select a recording date.
BAdvanced operations 3 Using the Menu Selecting menu items Touch [MENU] to display the menu index screen. 60min 0:00:00:00 MEMORY SET You can change various settings or make detailed adjustments using the menu items displayed on the screen. STILL SET MOVIE SET ALL ERASE 4 OK Select the icon of the desired menu with / , then touch . CAMERA SET (p. 64) MEMORY SET (p. 70) PICT. APPLI. (p. 74) EDIT/PLAY (p. 79) STANDARD SET (p. 83) TIME/LANGU. (p.
6 Select the desired setting. changes to . If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen. 60min REMOTE CTRL: OFF ON 0:00:00:00 OFF OK 7 Touch screen. , then to hide the menu You can also touch (return) to go back a screen each time you touch the button. Using the Menu To use the short-cuts of the Personal Menu The available items vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. Unavailable items will be grayed out. You can customize the short-cuts (p. 89).
Using the (CAMERA SET) menu – PROGRAM AE/WHITE BAL./16:9 WIDE, etc. You can select items listed below on the CAMERA SET menu. To select items, see “Selecting menu items” (p. 62). The default settings are marked with G. The indicators in parentheses appear when the setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out.
* Your camcorder is adjusted to focus only on subjects in the middle to far distance. **Your camcorder is adjusted to focus only on distant subjects. b Note • [SPORTS] (sports lesson) will not work when the POWER switch is set to CAMERAMEMORY. SPOT METER See page 37 for details. EXPOSURE See page 38 for details. WHITE BAL. You can adjust the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.
b Notes • You cannot use the white balance together with the NightShot plus, or Super NightShot plus function. • The setting returns to [AUTO] when you disconnect the power source from your camcorder for more than 5 minutes. z Tips • For better color balance adjustment when [WHITE BAL.] is set to [AUTO], aim your camcorder at a nearby white object for about 10 seconds after setting the POWER switch to CAMERA-TAPE when: – You remove the battery pack for replacement.
AUTO DCR-HC40: Select to trigger the flash (optional) automatically. The flash goes off prematurely to reduce the red-eye phenomenon. b Note • DCR-HC40: If the flash is not capable of preventing the red-eye phenomenon, you can select only [ON] or [AUTO]. FLASH LEVEL You can select an appropriate flash setting for recording with an external flash (optional). HIGH ( ) GNORMAL ( LOW ( ) Select to make the flash level higher than the standard setting. ) Standard setting.
DIGITAL ZOOM You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 10 times while recording on a tape. Note that the image quality decreases when you are using the digital zoom. This function is useful when recording enlarged pictures of a distant subject, such as a bird. The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming zone. The zooming zone appears when you select the zooming level. GOFF Select to deactivate the digital zoom.
GOFF ON ( Standard setting (to record pictures to play back on a 4:3 TV). The recorded picture will not be wide. ) Select to record a picture to be played back on a 16:9 wide TV. The recorded picture will be played in full mode when you connect to your TV using an S video input jack compatible with ID-1/ID-2 systems. z Tips • The ID-1 system sends aspect ratio information (16:9, 4:3, or letter box) by inserting signals between video signals.
Using the (MEMORY SET) menu – BURST/QUALITY/IMAGE SIZE/ALL ERASE/NEW FOLDER, etc. setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out. 60min You can select items listed below on the MEMORY SET menu. To select items, see “Selecting menu items” (p. 62). The default settings are marked with G.
QUALITY GFINE ( ) Select to record still images with the fine image quality (compressed to about 1/4). STANDARD ( ) Select to record still images with the standard image quality (compressed to about 1/10). IMAGE SIZE For DCR-HC40: G1152 × 864 ( ) Select to record still images for playing on a large screen. This setting can be selected only in the CAMERA-MEMORY mode. 640 × 480 ( ) Select to record many still images or for playing on a small screen.
b Notes • The folder will not be deleted even when you delete all the pictures in the folder. • Do not do any of the following while [ Erasing all data...] is displayed: – Move the POWER switch to select other power modes. – Operate any buttons. – Eject the “Memory Stick Duo.” FORMAT The supplied or newly purchased “Memory Stick Duo” has been formatted at the factory, and does not require formatting. For details on the “Memory Stick Duo,” see page 126. 1 Touch [YES] twice.
REC FOLDER As the default setting, pictures are saved in the 101MSDCF folder. You can select a folder to save your pictures. Create new folders from the [NEW FOLDER] menu, then select the folder to be used for recording with / and touch . When you have a lot of pictures, you can search for the desired picture easily when you sort them in folders. PB FOLDER Select the playback folder with / , then touch .
Using the (PICT. APPLI.) menu – PICT. EFFECT/SLIDE SHOW/FRAME REC/ INTERVAL REC/INT. REC–STL, etc. You can select items listed below on the PICT. APPLI. menu. To select items, see “Selecting menu items” (p. 62). The default settings are marked with G. The indicators in parentheses appear when the setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out.
PASTEL Select to record the picture looking like a pale pastel drawing. (This effect is not available during playback.) MOSAIC Select to record picture appearing mosaicpatterned. (This effect is not available during playback.) b Note • You cannot add effects to externally input pictures. Also, you cannot output pictures edited with Picture effects via the DV Interface. z Tip • You can copy pictures edited using picture effects to a “Memory Stick Duo” (p. 95) or to another tape (p. 93).
7 Touch [START]. Your camcorder plays back the images recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo” in sequence. To cancel the slide show, touch [END]. To pause, touch [PAUSE]. z Tips • You can select the first picture for the slide show by touching / before touching [START]. • If movies are played in the slide show, you can adjust the volume by touching (decrease)/ (increase). FRAME REC You can record pictures with a stop-motion animated effect by alternately frame recording and then moving the subject a little.
5 Select a desired recording time (0.5, 1, 1.5 or 2 seconds), then touch 6 Touch [END]. 7 Touch [ON], then . GOFF . To deactivate interval recording. ON ( ) To record moving pictures on a tape in the selected interval. 8 Touch . flashes on the screen. 9 Press REC START/STOP. stops flashing and the interval recording starts. To cancel interval recording, select [OFF] in step 7.
DEMO MODE When you remove both cassette and “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder, and select the CAMERA-TAPE mode, you can view the demonstration in about 10 minutes. GON Select to see an overview of the functions available such as when you are using this camcorder for the first time. OFF Select when you do not intend to use the DEMO MODE. b Note • You cannot view the demonstration when the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch is set to ON.
Using the (EDIT/ PLAY) menu – TITLE/ power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out. 60min 0:00:00:00 TAPE TITLE, etc. You can select items listed below on the EDIT/ PLAY menu. To select items, see “Selecting menu items” (p. 62). The default settings are marked with G. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the EDIT/PLAY VAR. SPD PB REC CTRL AUD DUB CTRL OK VAR. SPD PB See page 50 for details.
BURN VCD When your camcorder is connected to a personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the tape on a CD-R (Direct Access to Video CD Burn) using this command. See the supplied “Computer Applications Guide” for details. END SEARCH EXEC Select to activate the END SEARCH function. The most recently recorded picture is played back for about 5 seconds and then stops automatically. CANCEL Select to stop the END SEARCH function.
3 Touch to move s to select the next character, and enter the character in the same manner. 4 When you have finished entering characters, touch 2 Touch 3 Touch . . (color), / (position), [SIZE] as necessary to select a desired color, position or size. Color white t yellow t violet t red t cyan t green t blue Position You can select from 8 to 9 choices. Size small y large (You can only select the small size when you are entering more than 13 characters.) 4 Touch . 5 Touch [SAVE].
TITLE DISP You can view the title when you play back the picture. GON Select to display the title when a scene superimposed with a title appears. OFF Select when you do not want to display the title. TAPE TITLE You can label a cassette with Cassette Memory (up to 10 letters). The label will be displayed for approximately 5 seconds when you select the CAMERA-TAPE mode and insert a cassette, or when you select the PLAY/EDIT mode.
The default settings are marked with G. The Using the (STANDARD SET) menu – REC MODE/MULTISOUND/AUDIO MIX/USB-CAMERA, etc. indicators in parentheses appear when the setting is selected. The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out. 60min You can select the items listed below on the STANDARD SET menu. To select these items, see “Selecting menu items” (p. 62).
MULTI-SOUND You can select how to play back audio recorded on a tape in stereo mode. GSTEREO Select to play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape with main and sub sound. 1 Select to play back a stereo tape with the left channel sound or a dual sound track tape with main sound. 2 Select to play back a stereo tape with the right channel sound or a dual sound track tape with sub sound. b Notes • You can play back a dual sound track cassette on this camcorder.
LCD COLOR Touch / to adjust the color on the LCD screen. High intensity Low intensity VF B.LIGHT You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder. GNORMAL Standard brightness. BRIGHT To brighten the viewfinder screen. b Notes • When you connect your camcorder to outside power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting. • When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is reduced by about 10 percent during recording.
USB-PLY/EDT You can connect a USB cable (supplied) to your camcorder, and view the picture on the tape or “Memory Stick Duo” in your camcorder on your computer. For details, refer to the “Computer Applications Guide.” GSTD-USB Select to view the picture on the “Memory Stick Duo.” PictBridge Select to connect the PictBridge compliant printer (p. 109). USB STREAM Select to view the picture on the tape. GOFF Select not to display date, time and the camera settings data during playback.
OFF Select this setting in the following recording situations. The camera recording lamp will not light up during recording. • When you do not want the subject to be nervous about being recorded. • When you are recording close to the subject. • When the subject reflects the recording lamp. GMELODY Select to sound a melody when you start/stop recording, operate the touch panel, or when an unusual condition occurs on your camcorder. NORMAL Select to sound a beep instead of the melody.
Using the (TIME/ LANGU.) menu – CLOCK SET/ The settings you can adjust vary depending on the power mode of your camcorder. The screen shows the items you can currently operate. Unavailable items will be grayed out. WORLD TIME, etc. You can select items listed below on the TIME/ LANGU. menu. To select items, see “Selecting menu items” (p. 62). 60min STBY 0:00:00 TIME/LANGU. CLOCK SET WORLD TIME LANGUAGE OK CLOCK SET You can set the date and time (p. 22).
Customizing Personal Menu You can add frequently used menu items to Personal Menu, or sort them in the order you like (customizing). You can customize the Personal Menu for each power mode of your camcorder. 3 60min STBY Select the category. END OK 4 60min Select the item. END OK 5 Touch / then touch STBY MENU EXPO– SURE FADER FOCUS SPOT FOCUS SPOT METER 0:00:00 60min STBY P–MENU SET UP NO Touch [YES]. The menu is added to the end of the list. Touch [P-MENU SET UP].
Deleting menu – Delete 5 Touch [YES]. The selected menu is deleted from Personal Menu. 1 Touch 60min 1/3 2 6 . 0:00:00 STBY MENU EXPO– SURE FADER FOCUS SPOT FOCUS SPOT METER Touch [P-MENU SET UP]. If the desired menu is not displayed on the screen, touch / until the menu is displayed. 60min STBY P–MENU SET UP 0:00:00 Touch . b Note • You cannot delete [MENU] and [P-MENU SET UP].
4 Touch the menu item you want to move. 60min STBY Select new location. 1 2 MENU 3 5 5 SPOT FOCUS 0:00:00 60min STBY P–MENU SET UP 3 FADER 4 SPOT FOCUS 6 SPOT METER FOCUS 1/3 5 EXPO– SURE 3 RESET Touch [RESET]. 60min RESET END 0:00:00 STBY Initialize CAMERA-TAPE mode's P-MENU setting? YES OK . To sort more items, repeat steps 4 to 6. 7 SORT 4 Touch [YES]. 60min RESET Touch [END].
Dubbing/Editing You can record the picture from a VCR or TV to a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder (p. 94). You can also create a copy of the picture recorded on your camcorder on other recording device (p. 93). Connect your camcorder to a TV or VCR as shown in the following illustration. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet using the supplied AC Adaptor during the operation. Connecting to a VCR or TV Connecting with an i.LINK cable DV Interface i.LINK cable (optional) i.
transmitted digitally, producing high quality pictures. Note that you cannot record the picture and sound separately. For details, see page 130. Dubbing to another tape You can copy and edit the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (such as VCRs). 1 Connect your VCR to your camcorder as a recording device (p. 92). 2 Prepare your VCR for recording. • Insert a cassette for recording. • If your VCR has an input selector, set it to the input mode.
Recording pictures from a VCR or TV You can record and edit pictures or TV programs from a VCR or TV on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted in your camcorder. You can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording in your camcorder. If you have connected the A/V connecting cable, select the input signal in [VIDEO INPUT] in the (STANDARD SET) menu (p.
3 Press PHOTO lightly at the scene you want to record. Check the image and press it fully. The image is not recorded unless you press PHOTO fully. Release it if you do not want to record the scene, and select other scene as described above. Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” You can record movies (with sound recorded in monaural) or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder.
8 Touch , then . b Notes • DCR-HC40: You can record still images fixed to image size [640 × 480]. • The Data code and titles recorded on the tape cannot be recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo.” The time and date the picture is recorded on the “Memory Stick Duo” will be recorded. • The sound is recorded in 32kHz monaural. z Tips • You can also record a movie by pressing REC START/STOP during tape playback. • For the recording time of movies, see page 28.
10Touch , then . b Notes • You cannot dub the index screen. • You may not be able to dub images modified on your computer or recorded with other camcorders on your camcorder. • You cannot dub MPEG movies on the tape. Dubbing selected scenes from a tape – Digital program editing You can select up to 20 scenes (programs) and record them in the desired order to other recording device such as VCRs or to a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted in your camcorder.
connection. The dubbing procedure is easier with the i.LINK connection. 2 8 PROG. EDIT MARK START IN Prepare your VCR. • Insert a cassette for recording. • Set the input selector to input mode if your VCR has one. 3 Touch [OTHER DEVICE]. Prepare your camcorder (playing device). • Insert a cassette for editing. • Slide the POWER switch to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. 0:00:00:00 EDIT UNDO SET TOTAL 0:00:00:00 SCENE 0 END 9 Touch [EDIT SET]. PROG.
To set the [IR SETUP] code [IR SETUP] code list When you connect with an A/V connecting cable, you need to check the [IR SETUP] code signal to see if your VCR can be operated by your camcorder (infrared ray emitter). The following [IR SETUP] codes are recorded on your camcorder by default. (It is set at “3” as the default setting.) Remote sensor Infrared ray emitter VCR Manufacturing company [IR SETUP] code Sony 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Admiral (M.
Manufacturing company [IR SETUP] code Multitech 23, 32, 80 NEC 21, 33, 35 Olympic 77, 78 Optimus 22 Orion 60 Panasonic 16, 17, 77, 78 Pentax 8, 42 Philco 26, 70, 77, 78 Philips 47, 77, 78, 83 Pioneer 78 Quasar 6, 16, 17, 77, 78 RCA/PROSCAN 7, 8, 16, 40, 41, 42, 77, 78, 78*, 83, 101 Realistic 22, 36, 37, 77, 80, 88 Sansui 21 Singer 73 Samsung 24, 24*, 32, 32*, 41, 94, 94* Sanyo 26, 36, 37, 47 Scott 22, 23, 24, 28, 32, 37, 40, 41 Sharp 88, 89 Shintom 73 Signature 2000
5 Rewind the tape on your VCR, then play back in slow mode. Recording the selected scenes as programs 5 opening numbers for each [IN] and closing numbers for each [OUT] appear. 6 7 Take a note of the opening number value of each [CUT-IN] and the closing number value of each [CUT-OUT], then calculate the average number value for each [CUT-IN] and [CUTOUT]. When you are performing a digital program edit for the first time to a tape in a VCR, go through the procedures described in Steps 1 and 2 (p.
6 10Touch [MARK OUT]. Touch the desired item. When you are recording on a tape in the VCR Touch [OTHER DEVICE]. PROG. EDIT MARK START IN The ending point of the first program is set, and the lower part of the program mark changes to light blue. PROG. EDIT MARK START IN 0:00:00:00 EDIT UNDO SET 0:00:00:00 EDIT UNDO SET TOTAL 0:00:00:12 SCENE 1 TOTAL 0:00:00:00 SCENE 0 END END When you are recording on a “Memory Stick Duo” 1 Touch [MEMORY STICK]. PROG.
To end Digital program editing Touch [END]. To save a program without using it to record Touch [END] in step 11. The program is stored in memory until the cassette is ejected. To erase programs 1 Follow steps 1 to 6 in “Recording the selected scenes as programs” (p. 101), then touch [UNDO]. 2 Touch [DEL 1MARK] to delete the last set program. Or, touch [ALL ERASE] to erase all the programs. 3 Touch [EXEC]. The programs are deleted. To cancel this operation, touch [CANCEL].
You can record additional audio to the original sound on the tape. You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode without erasing the original sound. Dubbing sound to a recorded tape Preparing for audio recording B Intelligent accessory shoe for DCR-HC40 See page 139. Internal microphone AMIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack Microphone (optional) CA/V jack A/V connecting cable (supplied) Do not connect the S video plug (black) and the Video plug (yellow).
you have recorded afterwards is not output from the speaker. Check the sound by using a TV. 9 Touch [AUDIO DUB]. A green screen. Recording sound 60min AUD DUB CTRL Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder. 2 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. 3 Touch tape. 4 Touch (play/pause) again at the point where you want to start recording the sound. (play/pause) to play the The playback pauses. 5 Touch 6 Touch [MENU]. .
Checking and adjusting the recorded sound 1 Deleting recorded pictures Play back the tape on which you have recorded audio in “Recording sound” (p. 105). 2 Touch 3 Touch [MENU]. 4 Touch / to select (STANDARD SET), then touch You can delete all or selected pictures stored on a “Memory Stick Duo.” 1 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. 2 Touch . 60min 101–0001 2 / 10 101 MEMORY PLAY . 60min .
To delete pictures on the index screen You can easily search for the picture to be deleted by displaying 6 pictures at once. 1 Slide the POWER switch to select the PLAY/EDIT mode. 2 3 4 5 6 Touch . Touch . Touch . Touch [ DELETE]. Touch the picture you want to delete. appears on the image to be deleted. To display the next or the previous 6 pictures, touch / . 7 Touch . 8 Touch [YES].
5 3 Touch [PROTECT]. Touch . END PROTECT 101–0002 2/ 10 6 101–0002 2/ 10 101 Touch the image that you want to protect. 4 7 101 PRO– TECT PR I NT MARK DELETE PB FOLDER OK 5 Touch . END selected image. 101–0002 2/ 10 SET SET - appears on the PROTECT Touch 101 Touch [PRINT MARK]. . PRINT MARK 8 Touch [END]. 101–0002 2/ 10 To cancel image protection Follow steps 1 to 5, then touch the image to cancel image protection. - disappears from the image.
To cancel the Print mark Follow steps 1 to 5, then touch the image to cancel the Print mark. disappears from the image. b Note • Do not mark images on your camcorder if the “Memory Stick Duo” already has some images with the Print mark put on other devices. This may change the information of the images with the Print mark put on the other device.
6 Select (STANDARD SET), then [USB-PLY/EDT] by touching / and . 7 Select [PictBridge], then touch 8 Touch 9 Connect the USB jack (p. 138) of your camcorder to a printer using the supplied USB cable. Printing . 1 Select the image to be printed by touching (previous image)/ (next image). 2 Touch 3 Select the number of copies to be printed by touching / , then touch . . The location of the USB jack of the printer differs depending on the model.
To print another image Repeat steps 1 to 6. To stop printing Touch [CANCEL] while printing. To finish printing Touch [END] and disconnect the USB cable from your camcorder and printer. Dubbing/Editing b Notes • Do not attempt the following operations when is on the screen. The operations may not be performed properly.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting If you run into any problem using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, remove the power source and contact your Sony dealer. If “C:ss:ss” is displayed on the LCD screen or the viewfinder, the self-diagnosis display function is activated. See page 120 for details. Overall operations 112 Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The power does not turn on.
Batteries/Power sources Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The CHG (charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being charged. cAttach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the lamp still does not light up, then it indicates that no power is supplied from the wall outlet. • The battery charge is completed. (p. 16) The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while cAttach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly. If the problem the battery pack is being charged.
Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The Cassette Memory indicator does cClean the gold-plated connector of the cassette. (p. 126) not appear while using a cassette with Cassette Memory. The remaining tape indicator is not displayed. cSet [ REMAINING] to [ON] on the (STANDARD SET) menu to always display the remaining tape indicator. (p. 86) A cassette label is not recorded. cUse a cassette with Cassette Memory. (p. 125) cErase unnecessary titles when the Cassette Memory is full. (p.
Recording If you are using a “Memory Stick Duo” for recording, refer also to the “Memory Stick Duo” section. (p. 117) Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The tape does not start when you press REC START/STOP. cSlide the POWER switch to turn on the CAMERA-TAPE lamp. (p. 19) cThe tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or insert a new cassette. cSet the write-protect tab to REC or insert a new cassette. (p. 125) cThe tape is stuck to the drum due to moisture condensation.
Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The external flash (optional) does not work. • The power of the flash is not turned on, or the flash is not attached correctly. • Two or more flashes are attached. Only one external flash can be attached. The flash level cannot be changed. • The flash level cannot be changed during Easy Handycam operation. Flickering or changes in color occurs.
Symptom Noises appear and on the screen. Cause and/or Corrective Actions is displayed • The tape was recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder. This is not a malfunction. (p. 124) “Memory Stick Duo” Cause and/or Corrective Actions Cannot operate functions using the “Memory Stick Duo.” cSet the POWER switch to the CAMERA-MEMORY or PLAY/EDIT mode. (p. 19) c Insert a “Memory Stick Duo” into your camcorder. (p. 24) • The “Memory Stick Duo” was formatted on a personal computer.
Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions Image protection cannot be applied. cWhen you are using the “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p. 127) cPerform the operation again on the index screen. (p. 107) Cannot mark pictures for print. cWhen you are using the “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo.” (p.
Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The title is not displayed. cSet [ TITLE DISP] to [ON] in the (EDIT/PLAY) menu. (p. 82) • The title cannot be displayed during Easy Handycam operation. The title cannot be deleted. cSet the write-protect tab to REC. (p. 125) The Title search does not work. cEnter a title if there is no title on the tape. (p. 80) cUse a cassette with Cassette Memory. (p. 125) cSet [ SEARCH] to [ON] in the (EDIT/PLAY) menu. (p.
Warning indicators and messages Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators If indicators appear on the screen or in the viewfinder, check the following. See the page in parentheses for details. Indication Cause and/or Corrective Actions C:ss:ss/E:ss:ss (Selfdiagnosis display) Some symptoms can be fixed by yourself. If the problem persists even after you tried a couple of times, contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.
Indication Cause and/or Corrective Actions (Warning indicator pertaining to • An incompatible “Memory Stick Duo” is inserted. incompatible “Memory Stick Duo”)* Q (Warning indicator pertaining to the tape) Slow flashing: • There is less than 5 minutes remaining on the tape. • No cassette is inserted.* • The write-protect tab on the cassette is set to lock (p. 125).* Fast flashing: • The tape has run out.
Subjects “Memory Stick Duo” Indications Corrective Actions/ References Insert a Memory Stick. cSee page 24. Reinsert the Memory Stick. cReinsert the “Memory Stick Duo” a few times. If even then the indicator flashes, the “Memory Stick Duo” might be damaged. Try with another “Memory Stick Duo.” Do not eject the Memory Stick during writing. – This is a read-only Memory Stick. cInsert a writable “Memory Stick Duo.” Incompatible type of Memory Stick.
Subjects Indications Corrective Actions/ References 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. – Cannot add audio. Disconnect the i.LINK cable. cSee page 104. Not recorded in SP mode. Cannot add audio. cSee page 104. Not recorded in 12-bit audio. Cannot add audio. cSee page 104. Cannot add audio on the blank portion of a tape. cSee page 104.
Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad Power supply You can use your camcorder in any countries/ regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with your camcorder within AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b]. [a] AC-L25A/L25B [b] On TV color systems Your camcorder is an NTSC system-based camcorder.
Usable cassette tapes You can use the mini DV format cassette only. Use a cassette with the mark. is a trademark. Cassette Memory There are 2 types of mini DV cassettes: those with Cassette Memory and those without Cassette Memory. Cassettes with Cassette Memory have the (Cassette Memory) mark. A cassette with Cassette Memory is recommended for use on your camcorder.
When labeling the cassette Be sure to place the label only on the locations as shown in the following illustration so as not to cause malfunction of your camcorder. Do not put a label along this border. Labeling position After using the cassette Rewind the tape to the beginning to avoid distortion of the picture or the sound. The cassette should then be put in its case, and stored in an upright position. When the Cassette Memory function does not work Re-insert the cassette.
• File names of movies: – MOV00001: This file name appears on the screen of your camcorder. – MOV00001.MPG: This file name appears on the display of a computer. • On a “Memory Stick Duo” formatted on a computer: A “Memory Stick Duo” formatted by the Windows OS or using Macintosh computers does not have guaranteed compatibility with your camcorder. • Data read/write speed may vary depending on the combination of the “Memory Stick” and “Memory Stick” compliant product you use.
Notes on using the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” and “Memory Stick Duo” (MagicGate/Parallel Transfer) • The maximum memory capacity of a “Memory Stick PRO Duo” that can be used on your camcorder is up to 512 MB, and that of a “Memory Stick Duo” (MagicGate/Parallel Transfer) is up to 128 MB. • This unit does not support high speed data transfer.
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack • This unit is compatible with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series). Your camcorder operates only with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” P series battery packs have the mark. • What is the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? • To charge the battery pack • Be sure to charge the battery pack before you start using your camcorder.
menu and leave your camcorder in tape recording standby until the power goes off (p. 87). About battery life • The battery life is limited. Battery capacity drops little by little as you use it more and more, and as time passes. When the available battery time is shortened considerably, a probable cause is that the battery pack has reached the end of its life. Please buy a new battery pack.
device. It is also indicated near the i.LINK interface on some device. The maximum baud rate for device that does not have any indication (such as this unit) is “S100.” The baud rate may differ from the indicated value when the unit is connected to device with a different maximum baud rate. * What is Mbps? Mbps stands for “megabits per second,” or the amount of data that can be sent or received in one second. For example, a baud rate of 100 Mbps means that 100 megabits of data can be sent in one second.
• Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for example, and operate it. Doing so might cause heat to build up inside. • When disconnecting the power cord, pull by the plug and not the cord. • Do not damage the power cord such as by placing anything heavy on it. • Keep metal contacts clean. • Keep the Remote Commander and buttontype battery out of children’s reach. If the battery is accidentally swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.
LCD screen • Do not add excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage. • If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a residual image may appear on the LCD screen. This is not a malfunction. • While using your camcorder, the back of the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a malfunction. To clean the LCD screen • If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen dirty, it is recommended you use the cleaning cloth (supplied) to clean it.
To charge the pre-installed button-type battery Your camcorder has a pre-installed button-type battery to retain the date, time, and other settings even when the POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG). The pre-installed button-type battery is always charged while you are using your camcorder but it will get discharged gradually if you do not use your camcorder. The button-type battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months if you do not use your camcorder at all.
* Objects unable to be seen due to the dark can be shot with infrared lighting. Input/Output connectors Audio/Video input/output 10-pin connector Input/output auto switch Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75Ω (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75Ω (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at output impedance more than 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Input impedance more than 47 kΩ (kilohms), Output impedance with less than 2.
rechargeable battery pack and DVM60 cassette. Supplied accessories See page 15. AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B Power requirements AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 - 0.18 A Power consumption 18 W Output voltage DC 8.4 V, 1.5 A Operating temperature 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) Storage temperature -20°C to + 60°C (-4°F to + 140°F) Dimensions (approx.) 56 × 31 × 100 mm (2 1/4 × 1 1/4 × 4 in.) (w/h/d) excluding the projecting parts Mass (approx.) 190 g (6.
Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls Camcorder 4 5 1 6 7 2 8 9 3 A LCD/Touch panel screen (p. 4, 20) Quick Reference B LCD BACKLIGHT * (p. 20) C REC START/STOP (p. 26, 50) D BACK LIGHT button * (p. 37) E DSPL/BATT INFO button (p. 17) F EASY button (p. 34, 54) G Viewfinder (p. 4, 21) H For DCR-HC40: Connection Lamp The Connection Lamp flashes when USB or i.LINK connection is established with other devices and during demonstration. I Battery pack (p.
8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 A DV Interface B (USB) jack C Jack cover D A/V (audio/video) jack E (LANC) jack (blue) The LANC control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video device and peripherals connected to it. F RESET button If you press RESET, all the settings including the date and time, except the Personal Menu items, return to the default. G Access lamp (p. 24, 127) H NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch (p.
1 7 2 8 3 4 5 9 q; qa 6 qs A PHOTO button (p. 31) B Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p. 21) C BATT (battery) release button (p. 16) D CHG (charge) lamp (p. 16) E REC START/STOP (p. 26, 50) F DC IN jack (p. 16) J POWER switch (p. 19) K Speaker L DC IN jack cover To connect an accessory Quick Reference G For DCR-HC40: Intelligent accessory shoe / shoe cover (p. 104) For DCR-HC30: Accessory shoe/shoe cover • Remove the shoe cover when you use an accessory.
2 3 1 4 A OPEN/ZEJECT lever (p. 23) B Strap Belt (p. 4) C Cassette lid (p. 23) D Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely, and the screw may damage your camcorder. Using the Strap Belt as a wrist strap It is useful when you carry your camcorder. 1 Open the hook and loop fastener of the hand pad (1) and remove it from the ring (2).
Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander. To remove the insulation sheet Insulation sheet To change the battery 1 While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail into the slit to pull out the battery case. Tab A PHOTO button (p. 31) B Memory control buttons (Index*, –/+, Memory playback) (p. 52) C SEARCH M. button* (p. 60, 61) D ./> buttons* (p. 60, 61) 2 Remove the button-type lithium battery.
WARNING Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire. CAUTION Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. b Notes on the Remote Commander • A button-type lithium battery (CR2025) is used in the Remote Commander. Do not use batteries other than CR2025.
Indicators for the LCD screen and viewfinder Following indicators will appear on the LCD screen and viewfinder to indicate the state of your camcorder. Indicators vary depending on your camcorder model. Indicators This indicator appears when you use video flash light (optional). Example: Indicators in the CAMERA-TAPE mode Frame recording (p. 76) Outputting analog images and sound in digital format (p. 85) Time code (p. 57)/Tape counter (p. 57)/Selfdiagnosis (p. 120)/Picture number (p.
Index Numerics 16:9 WIDE mode .............. 68 A A/V connecting cable ...................... 59, 92, 104 AC Adaptor ....................... 16 Accessory shoe................ 139 Adjusting the viewfinder... 21 Audio dubbing (AUD DUB CTRL) .................................. 104 AUDIO MIX ............. 84, 106 AUDIO MODE ................. 83 Auto shut off function (A. SHUT OFF).......... 87 AUTO SHUTTER............. 66 B BACK LIGHT (camera).... 37 Battery Battery Info................. 17 Battery pack.......
Interval recording (INTERVAL REC) .....76 J JPEG ................................126 L LANC...............................138 LANGUAGE .....................88 Language (LANGUAGE) ............25 LCD back light (LCD BL LEVEL) ......84 LCD BACKLIGHT ...20, 137 LCD brightness (LCD BRIGHT).....................20 LCD COLOR .....................85 LCD screen ..........................4 LCD/VF SET .....................84 LP (Long Play) See Recording mode (REC MODE) Luminance key (LUMI. KEY)..............
T Tape counter...................... 27 Telephoto See Zoom Time code.......................... 27 Title (Cassette Memory) TAPE TITLE .............. 82 TITL ERASE.............. 81 TITLE ......................... 80 TITLE DISP ............... 82 Title search ........................ 60 TRAIL ............................... 43 TV color systems............. 124 U USB Streaming.................. 85 USB-CAMERA .......... 85 USB-PLY/EDT........... 86 Using abroad ................... 124 V Video head ............
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