3-861-961-12(1) Digital Camcorder Operating Instructions 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. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. LITHIUM BATTERY Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. WARNING Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire. Note Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children.
Table of Contents Chapter 1 Overview Product Configurations .................................................... 7 Features ............................................................................. 8 Features on Camera Section ................................................ 8 Features on VCR Section .................................................... 9 Location and Function of Parts ..................................... 11 Front View ..................................................................
Table of Contents Chapter 3 Shooting Basic Procedure for Shooting........................................ 47 Recording ........................................................................ 49 Cassettes for the DSR-300/300P ....................................... 49 Recording on the Internal VCR ......................................... 50 Recording on an External VCR ......................................... 54 Back Space Editing .........................................................
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings Setting on the VCR Section — VCR Menu ..................... 91 VCR Menu Operation ...................................................... 92 Basic Operation ................................................................. 92 Menu 101 Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar ..... 93 Menu 201 Checking the Total Operating (Power-On) Hours ....................................... 93 Menu 204 Selecting Frame Mode (DF/NDF) for Time Code (for DSR-300 Only) .....................
Table of Contents Appendixes Important Notes on Operation ..................................... 113 Characteristics of CCD Sensors ...................................... 113 Cleaning the Video Heads ............................................ 114 Warning System ............................................................ 115 Condensation ................................................................... 116 Troubleshooting ............................................................ 117 Specifications ..
Product Configurations shown in the figure below. The operation of the basic camcorder is the same in all cases.
Features Features on Camera Section 1 /2-inch IT type Power HAD CCD Chapter 1 Overview The DSR-300/300P Digital Camcorder uses 1/2-inch IT type Power HAD CCDs. It excels in reduction of smear, sensitivity and picture quality. • Smear: –110 dB • Sensitivity: F11.0 (at 3200 K, 2000 lux) • S/N: 62 dB (DSR-300) or 60 dB (DSR-300P) Sophisticated image processing TruEye™ processing makes possible the following performance features.
Viewfinder super detail Video signals for the viewfinder are mixed with DTL signals to make focusing easier. Color temperature display When reading the white balance, the color temperature is displayed on the viewfinder screen. Switching the color temperatures for the preset white balance You can select the preset white balance at 3200 K or 5600 K by setting the FILTER control. The 3200 K preset can be switched to the 3000 K preset when the menu setting is changed.
Features Chapter 1 Overview ClipLink™ function VCR data display The ClipLink function links all stages from shooting to editing. Once editing points have been set with this function during shooting, they can be used to boost the efficiency of editing work. The DSR-300/300P is able to display the following data on the viewfinder screen.
Location and Function of Parts Front View Chapter 1 Overview 0 Switch guard fitting screws How to fit the switch guard 1. Detach the two screws (M3). 2. Place the supplied switch guard so that the EZ MODE button, A.IRIS MODE switch and ATW button are covered, and retain it using the two screws detached in step 1.
Location and Function of Parts Right Side View Front section Chapter 1 Overview 1 EZ FOCUS button 2 EDIT SEARCH buttons 3 LIGHT switch 4 EZ MODE button and indicator 5 ZEBRA button and indicator 6 A.IRIS MODE switch and indicator 7 MENU switch 8 W.BAL switch 9 MENU dial 0 POWER switch !¡ OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch !™ NG button !£ GAIN switch !¢ ATW button and indicator 1 EZ FOCUS button Press this button to turn the “easy focus” function on.
Note When the RM-M7G Remote Control Unit is connected, the “easy mode” function is disabled. 5 ZEBRA button and indicator Depress this button to display a zebra pattern (diagonal stripes) in the viewfinder. Depending on the zebra setting in advanced menu page 4 (see page 86), the zebra 1 for video levels between 70 to 90 IRE (or 70 to 90%) and the zebra 2 for video levels 100 IRE or more (or 100% or more) can be displayed independently or simultaneously. 6 A.
Location and Function of Parts Rear section 1 EJECT button Chapter 1 Overview EJECT STOP REW PLAY F FWD 2 Tape transport buttons and indicators 3 EARPHONE connector 4 WARNING indicator 5 LIGHT switch 6 DISPLAY switch 7 AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs 8 Display window 9 RESET/(MENU SET) button 0 Speaker !¡ ALARM knob !™ MONITOR knob 1 EJECT 6 button Press to open the cassette holder (1 on page 23) when the camcorder is powered.
The audio levels are indicated in the display window 8. For details, see “8 Display window”. 8 Display window Shows the following items. Use the LIGHT switch (5 on page 14) to light up the display window.
Location and Function of Parts j Lithium backup battery warning Appears when the voltage of the internal lithium backup battery (CR2032) is low. If this indication appears, replace the lithium backup battery immediately. For further information about replacing lithium battery, see “Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery” (page 31). Chapter 1 Overview k DVCAM indication Disappears when the cassette being played back is not for DVCAM format.
q Tape remaining indication Indication Tape time remaining TAPEppppppp 30 minutes or more TAPEpppppp 25 to 30 minutes TAPEppppp 20 to 25 minutes TAPEpppp 15 to 20 minutes TAPEppp 10 to 15 minutes TAPEpp 5 to 10 minutes TAPEp 2 to 5 minutes TAPEp (blinking) 0 to 2 minutes TAPE (blinking) End of tape Chapter 1 Overview r Clip remaining indication During recording or pause mode, this indication shows the remaining tape time as shown below. It is not displayed when no cassette is loaded.
Location and Function of Parts !¡ ALARM (alarm tone volume adjustment) knob Controls the volume of the warning tone that is output via the speaker (0 on page 17) or earphone (3 on page 14). Turning this knob to the minimum setting mutes the alarm tone. !™ MONITOR (monitor volume adjustment) knob Controls the volume of the sound other than the warning tone that is output via the speaker (0 on page 17) or earphone (3 on page 14). Turning this knob to the minimum setting mutes the audio output.
For time code and user bit settings, see page 59. On how to use the SHIFT button for menu settings, see “Setting on the VCR Section —VCR Menu” (page 91). 4 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) (audio recording level adjustments manual/auto selection for channels 1 and 2) switches These select the audio recording level adjustment method. AUTO: Use the AGC (automatic gain control) circuit to automatically adjust the audio level.
Location and Function of Parts 0 ClipLink CONTINUE button When restart ClipLink shooting, press this button to add the new clip at the end of the recorded clips. Note Chapter 1 Overview When restart recording without pressing this button, the pre-recorded ClipLink log data and Index Pictures are deleted. !¡ MONITOR SELECT (audio monitor selection) switch Selects audio output via the speaker (0 on page 17) or earphone.
Note 2 SKIN DTL (skin detail) switch Set this switch ON to use the skin detail correction function. Note For details, see “Skin Detail Correction” (page 111). Increasing the gain with this switch reduces the horizontal resolution by approx. 50%. 3 EXT VTR OUTPUT switch Depending on the external VCR connected to the VTR connector (8 on page 25), this switches the video signal output to the VCR.
Location and Function of Parts Left and Upper View Front section Chapter 1 Overview 1 Shoulder strap fitting 2 Accessory fitting shoe and screw hole 3 Viewfinder left-to-right positioning ring 4 Viewfinder fitting shoe 5 REMOTE connector 1 6 Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob 7 Fitting for optional microphone holder 8 Video light connector 9 LENS connector 0 VIDEO OUT connector !¡ REMOTE connector 2 1 Shoulder strap fitting To use the supplied shoulder strap, fix one end here and the other e
9 LENS connector (12-pin) If you use a lens with cable, connect the lens cable. !¡ REMOTE connector 2 (10-pin) Connect the optional RM-M7G Remote Control Unit to this connector. Set the CAMERA HEAD SELECT switch on the bottom of RM-M7G to 1. Note EZ mode cannot be used if the RM-M7G is connected to the camcorder. For more information about a remote control unit with microphone, contact your Sony dealer.
Location and Function of Parts Chapter 1 Overview 4 TC OUT (time code output) connector (BNC) This outputs time code signals from the built-in time code generator. When a time code signal is input to the TC IN connector (3 on page 23), this output signal is synchronized to it. 6 MONITOR OUT (output) connector Outputs the image being shot or played back as composite video signals. Connect to the video input connector on an external VCR or video monitor.
3 Battery attachment interface Attach a battery pack or an AC-DN1 AC Adaptor. When using the WRR-855A synthesized tuner (for wireless microphones), attach the CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor here. 4 DC IN (DC power input) connector (XLR 4-pin, male) To use the camcorder with an AC power supply connect an optional AC-550/550CE or CMA-8A/ 8ACE AC Adaptor.
Location and Function of Parts VCL-714BXA Zoom Lens Chapter 1 Overview 1 Focusing ring 2 Manual zoom control 3 Iris ring 4 F.f. fixing knob 5 F.f.
1 Focusing ring Turn this ring to focus the lens on the subject. 3 Iris ring For manual iris control, set the iris selector to the “M” position, and turn this ring. 4 F.f. (flange focal length) fixing knob Fixes the F.f. adjustment ring 5. 5 F.f. (flange focal length) adjustment ring To adjust the flange focal length, loosen the F.f. fixing knob 4 on this ring, then turn the ring. (See page 107.) !™ RET (return) button This allows you to check the video signal as follows.
Location and Function of Parts DXF-701WS/701WSCE Viewfinder selected on the camera or camcorder. However, it operates in 4:3 mode when used on the DSR-300/ 300P.
4 SHUTTER indicator (red) This lights when the SHUTTER switch (5 on page 11) is in the ON position. (If the EVS is selected, the indicator will not light.) Chapter 1 Overview 5 GAIN UP indicator (orange) This lights when the gain is 3 dB or more. 6 Eyepiece focusing knob Turn this to adjust the viewfinder focus to match your eyesight. (See page 106.) 7 Accessory fixing screw hole Attach optional video lights or other accessories here.
Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery Lifetime of the lithium battery When the lithium battery’s voltage falls, the lithium backup battery warning Li appears in the display window. If this warning appears, replace the lithium battery (CR2032) within three or four days. The lithium battery has an average service life of about two years, however operation in ClipLink mode will shorten the lifetime until about one year (when the DSBK-301 is fitted). 1 Turn the POWER switch on.
Fitting the Lens In the case of the DSR-300K/300PK/300F/300PF model, the lens is already fitted. In other cases, use the following procedure to fit the lens. 1 Remove the retaining rubber which prevents the lens mount from coming loose, then raise the lens fixing lever, and remove the lens mount cap. Note Be sure to turn off the power before fitting the lens.
If using a lens with a 6-pin connector This camcorder head has a 12-pin LENS connector. If the lens cable has a 6-pin connector, fit an adaptor cable: LO-612 (manufactured by Canon) or ECF-124 (manufactured by Fujinon) or equivalent. Fitting optional filters Loosen the lens hood fixing screw to remove the lens hood, then attach the filter. If using a 2/3” lens Fit the lens using the optional LO-32BMT 2/3” lens adapter.
Using Accessories Using the Viewfinder Removing the Viewfinder Remove any microphone from the viewfinder before beginning. Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections 1 Pull the viewfinder connector out of the VF connector on the front. 2 Loosen the viewfinder left-toright position fixing ring, then pulling up the retaining catch, slide the viewfinder out. To fit the viewfinder Reverse the removal procedure. (You need not hold the viewfinder stopper up.
Using an Optional Microphone To use a long microphone such as the optional ECM670/672, remove the supplied microphone holder, and fit an optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder to the camcorder, then mount the microphone in this holder. Removing the supplied microphone holder Microphone holder Remove the two retaining screws (M3 × 8) for the optional microphone holder, then use these screws to attach the CAC-12 Microphone Holder.
Using Accessories 2 Insert the microphone in the microphone holder, close the holder, and tighten the screw. Connect the microphone cable to the MIC IN +48 V connector. Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections Fitting optional microphones (operable with a 48 V supply) other than the ECM-670 Use the same fitting procedure as for the ECM-670, but note the following differences with respect to the microphone adaptor. ECM-672: no microphone adaptor required.
Remove the cover of the camcorder grip and break off projection A (see the figure). 2 Pass the cable through the grip as shown in the figure and replace the cover. Projection B Projection A Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections 1 When using equipment other than the camcorder for power supply Break off projections A and B on the camcorder. (See step 1 of the previous section “When using a video light with a long cable”.
Using Accessories Fitting the Shoulder Strap This section describes the procedure for fitting the supplied shoulder strap to the camcorder. 1 Fit one of the clips to a shoulder strap fitting. 1 Open the cover of the clip. 2 Hook the clip over a shoulder strap fitting. Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections 2 Fit the other clip to the shoulder strap fitting on the other side of the grip in the same way.
Connecting to Audio System The DSR-300/300P is able to record sound not only from the microphone attached but also from a wireless microphone or an external audio system. Using a wireless microphone system For details on using the wireless microphone system, see the operating instructions for the microphone and tuner. To connect a WRR-855A 1 Open the cover of the WRR connector. WRR connector R WR 2 Insert the WRR-855A into the CA-WR855. Fasten the screws (supplied with the WRR-855A).
Using Accessories To connect a WRR-810A/860A Attach the WRR tuner fitting (not supplied) (Part No. A-8278-057-A) to the rear of the camcorder as shown in the following figure. 2,3 4 5 Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections 1 1 Pass a screwdriver through the holes and tighten the screws . 2 3 Loosen the adjustment screws. Adjust the metal fitting position for a battery pack to be attached, and tighten the adjustment screws to fix its position.
Fitting to a Tripod First fit the VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor to the tripod, then mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor. Removal Note VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor Side the camcorder forward along the slot, until it clicks firmly into place. Tripod After removing the camcorder, if the tripod adaptor pin has not returned to its original position, hold down the red button and move the lever in the direction of the arrow to return the pin to its original position.
Using Accessories Using the LC-421 Carrying Case Stowing the camcorder Align the camcorder with the base of the case, and slide the camcorder in forward. Checking that the pin at the rear engages correctly, push forward until it locks into place. Align the camcorder with the base of the carrying case. Notes Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections • Turn the viewfinder downward, slide it fully rearward and to the left, then fix before stowing. • When an optional microphone (ECM-670/672, C-74, etc.
Connections Connecting a Number of Camcorders When using two or more synchronized camcorders, connect an external sync signal to the GEN LOCK IN connector, supplying a VBS or BS signal. The camcorder will then operate synchronized to this signal. You can adjust the synchronization using the basic menu. (See page 79.
Power Supply The following power supplies can be used with the camcorder. • BP-L40/L60/L60A/L90/L90A lithium-ion battery pack • NP-1B Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L1Battery Adaptor is required.) • BP-90A Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L90 Battery Adaptor is required.) • AC power (The AC-550/550CE, AC-DN1 or CMA8/8CE AC Adaptor is required.
2 Slide the battery pack down until its “LOCK” arrow points at the matching line on the camcorder. Matching line on the camcorder Continuous operation when operating with only an internal battery pack First, connect a fully charged external battery to the DC IN connector, then change the internal battery. Notes LOCK Holding the button in, pull the battery pack up.
Power Supply Using an AC-DN1 AC Adaptor Mount the AC-DN1 on the camcorder in the same way as a battery, then connect to the AC power source. To AC power source Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections Using the Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System You can equip the camcorder with a special battery mount which the Anton Bauer Corporation has developed for its Intelligent Battery System and Ultralight System.
Basic Procedure for Shooting Chapter 3 Shooting RET button ZEBRA button Focusing ring POWER switch Chapter 3 Shooting FILTER control VTR button 3 2 (5600K + 1/8 Sunlight. ND) This setting includes a 1/8 neutral density filter (reducing the exposure by the equivalent of three stops). Use it to prevent hunting1) or to reduce the depth of field2). Check the switch settings on the camcorder. (See pages 11 to 25).
Basic Procedure for Shooting 8 If required, switch on the center marker and/or safety zone (basic menu page 4 and advanced menu page 4) and zebra pattern (ZEBRA button) in the viewfinder image. 9 Adjust the white balance (page 100) and black balance (page 103). 10Turn the focusing ring so that the subject is sharply in focus. It may be convenient to use the EZ FOCUS button for the “easy focus” function (see page 12). 11Set up the VCR section according to your shooting objectives, then start recording.
Recording Cassettes for the DSR-300/300P The DSR-300/300P can use standard-size and minisize DVCAM and DV series metal tape cassettes. (To ensure high-quality playback, editing, and storage of recorded contents, we recommend using highly reliable DVCAM cassettes). The following table lists the cassettes that can be used in the DSR-300/300P.
Recording Checking the tape for slack Turn the reel gently in the direction shown by the arrow. If the reel does not move, there is no slack. Insert the cassette into the cassette holder, close the cassette holder, and after about 10 seconds take it out. See page 51 on how to insert a cassette. Paper clip, etc. Reel Chapter 3 Shooting Recording on the Internal VCR This section describes basic recording operations using the internal VCR.
1 Set the POWER switch to ON and check the following items in the display window. Item to check Indication and steps See also How is the battery? BATT E [pppppp] F: The battery is fully charged. If two or fewer marks appear and the indication is blinking, replace the battery. “8 Display window” (page 15) Has the lithium battery been inserted and is it charged? Make sure that the Li is not shown in the display window. If it is shown, replace the lithium battery.
Recording • After inserting the cassette, close the cassette holder solidly by pressing on the “PUSH” indication on the holder. Unless the cassette holder is closed solidly, the tape will not be loaded and the tape operation buttons will not function. If you find the tape operation buttons inoperable, press on the “PUSH” indication again to make sure that the cassette holder is solidly closed. Notes Chapter 3 Shooting • Turn the power on and then insert or eject the cassette.
4 Display menu 212 and select the audio recording mode (two-channel mode or four-channel mode). During recording, the tape transport buttons (EJECT, REW, F FWD, PLAY, and STOP) cannot be used. For menu operation, see “Selecting Audio Recording Mode — Menu 212” (page 97). Note One of the following warning indications appears in the display area when you change the audio mode setting during recording pause. Operation Step To view image being shot • Look into the viewfinder.
Recording To pause recording, press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens again. The both VCRs go into the recording paused state. When the battery is getting exhausted When the battery is getting exhausted, the BATT indication in the display window blinks once a second (see page 16). Replace the battery with a charged battery immediately. If you continue to use the low battery, the BATT indication will blink four times a second, and the operation will stop.
Back Space Editing This section describes the steps for recording several scenes continuously. 1 Follow steps 1 to 5 (pages 51 to 53) in the procedure “Recording on the Internal VCR” to begin recording. To continue the time code that has been recorded on the tape, set the TC mode switch 2 to R-RUN in step 3 (page 52). For details of time codes, see “Setting the Time Code Value” on page 61.
Back Space Editing • If the POWER switch is turned on and off repeatedly. • If the camcorder is left powered off for several hours. • If the camcorder is subject to severe vibration while powered off. • If for any other reason the automatic recording continuity function is unable to operate correctly. • If the lithium battery (CR2032) is exhausted, or if no lithium battery has been fitted.
To change the playback speed Press the REV or FWD button down firmly into the inner position to make the tape move at the faster speed. Press the button down lightly to make the tape move at the slower speed. The following indication appears on the screen. PLAY mFREEZE MIX(ONmPUSH) Note Do not shut off the power while using the edit search function. The VCR may not be able to find the continue point. 4 EXIT MENU(YESmPUSH) For details of the playback operation, see page 58.
Playback — Checking Recorded Contents Checking the Recorded Contents Immediately After Shooting — Recording Review Immediately after shooting, you can use the recording review function to automatically rewind and play back the last 2 to 10 seconds of the recording to check the recorded contents. STOP button REW button PLAY button Performing recording review With recording paused, press the RET button on the lens.
Setting Time Values The camcorder uses three types of time values: counter values, time code values, and user bits. The time value is displayed in the viewfinder screen and in the display window. PB DATE NDF EXT-LK H MIN HOLD SEC OVER dB OVER 0 The counter value starts advancing as the tape is transported. It shows negative values if the tape is rewound past the point where the counter was reset.
Setting Time Values Setting the User Bit Value You can set the user bits as eight-digit hexadecimal values (base 16) to have the date, time, scene number, and other information inserted into the time code. When using both the time code and user bits, set up the user bits first. If you set the time code first, the internal time code generator will remain stopped while you set the user bits, which will set the time value off from the original setting.
Setting the Time Code Value For details of setting user bits, see “Setting the User Bit Value” on previous page. This section describes the steps for setting time code recording methods for particular shooting conditions and setting initial values. When using both the time code and user bits, set up the user bits first. If you set the time code first, the internal time code generator will remain stopped while you set the user bits, which will set the time value off from the original setting.
Setting Time Values 6 Use the TC mode switch 2 to set the desired running mode. Operation Setting Time code advances freely regardless of the VCR’s current operation mode. F-RUN Time code value advances only while recording. R-RUN Restarting an interrupted recording Perform the following steps to make the time code continuous when the recording has been interrupted or when the cassette tape has been removed from the camcorder between shootings.
Synchronization With External Time Code Signals — Gen-Lock To edit and compile a recording that is shot using multiple camcorders, it is necessary to synchronize the video and time code of the various camcorders (by gen-lock). Note Synchronization with external time code signals (by gen-lock) may be disallowed in some cases at ClipLink shooting.
Setting Time Values Locking the internal time code generator to the reference time code Perform the following steps to synchronize the camcorder’s internal time code generator to an external time code. 1 2 3 Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET. Set the TC mode switch 2 to F-RUN. Connect a reference time code and video signal to the camcorder. For connections, see the previous section “Connection for gen-lock”. Chapter 3 Shooting “EXT-LK” will be displayed in the display window.
ClipLink Shooting The ClipLink function is intended to be used at various stages from recording to editing. When you record using this function, Index Pictures are automatically recorded along with the time code, scene number, and other data, all of which make for more efficient editing. Note On the DSR-300/300P, you can also use the ClipLink function without recording Index Pictures.
ClipLink Shooting The following display appears on the viewfinder screen. • The number of recordable clips varies with cassette memory capacity. Up to 45 clips (Index Pictures) can be recorded in a 4-Kbit cassette memory and up to 198 clips (Index Pictures) can be recorded in a 16-Kbit cassette memory. TCG 12:34:56:00 ClipLink mode indication: CLIP M or Ca) 3 Set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switch to AUTO or MANUAL (see page 52). 4 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens.
To continuously record the next scene Repeat steps 4 and 5. The scene number will be automatically incremented from the previous number. You can set or clear an “NG” designation for the previously recorded scene before shooting the next scene. If you have stopped the recording, see “Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode” (page 69). Notes For details, see “Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode” (page 69). You can use the TAKE button to record a time code for a Cue point or a Mark IN/OUT point.
ClipLink Shooting 4 Press the TAKE button when you find a shot where you would like to set a Mark IN point. Setting Cue points as you shoot The following data is recorded onto the cassette when you specify a Cue point to highlight a scene. TAKE button The TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange) lights in the viewfinder and “TAKE” appears on the screen. 5 Chapter 3 Shooting Press the TAKE button when you find a shot where you would like to set a Mark OUT point.
6 Time codes (HH:MM:SS) and scene number (scene 001) are recorded to the cassette memory and the Index Picture of the Rec IN point is recorded onto the tape (when the DSBK-301 is attached). To finish shooting, press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. This stops recording operation. Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode During recording pause in ClipLink mode, pressing the STOP/PLAY/F FWD/REW buttons, performing edit search, or ejecting the cassette will interrupt the ClipLink shooting.
ClipLink Shooting 4 Press the ClipLink CONTINUE button. The tape remaining indication in the display window flashes as the camcorder automatically searches the recording stop point. When it finds the recording stop point, it stops and enters recording pause mode. Once it has stopped, check that the CONT indication appears in the display window.
When recording in ClipLink mode is started and previous recording is overwritten Previous recording New recording Previous Index Pictures: erased New Index Pictures are recorded (when the DSBK-301 is fitted). ClipLink log data: overwritten by new data When recording in ClipLink mode is started after a previous recording New recording Previous Index Pictures: retained but invalid Chapter 3 Shooting Previous recording New Index Pictures are recorded (when the DSBK-301 is fitted).
Viewfinder Screen Indications “CHECK DIAG” appears before basic menu page 1 when the self diagnostic function has detected an abnormality (see page 82). Display by holding the MENU switch up while the normal indications are present. Status indications WHITE : A.IRIS: M A T R IX : DCC+ : A 3 2 0 0K STD STD OFF SS :OFF BATT: 13.0V Normal indications Display by moving the POWER switch to the ON position. REC NG 198 Switch by pressing the MENU switch down or press and turn the MENU dial downward.
Viewfinder Normal Indications During normal operation, the following items can be indicated in the viewfinder.
5 Clip mode indication A “CLIP M” or “CLIP C” indication appears when you use the ClipLink function for recording. CLIP M: Indicates shooting in Mark mode CLIP C: Indicates shooting in Cue mode 6 Clip remaining indication The number of available clips is displayed when you use the ClipLink function for recording. 7 Status display area One of the following values or messages is displayed to indicate the camcorder’s current status or its operation status.
Viewfinder Normal Indications Indication Meaning CLIP CONT? Asking whether you will continue shooting in ClipLink mode or not when the cassette contains ClipLink data. (The indication disappears when you press the ClipLink CONTINUE button or start the next shooting without pressing it.) CLIP NEAR END At ClipLink shooting, capacity for only 1 to 3 clips remains. CLIP END Impossible to record any more clip shots.
@™ Voltage/error indication The current voltage is displayed whenever the power supply voltage dips below 11.3 V DC. However, you can also display the current voltage at any time by pressing and holding the MENU switch in the upward position (the display is shown for as long as you hold the switch upward). An error message is displayed when an abnormality has been detected by the auto diagnostic function (page 82). If there is a voltage drop below 11.
Viewfinder Basic Menu To display the basic menu pages, press the MENU switch downward (to ON position) or press the MENU dial while the normal indications are being shown in the viewfinder. The basic menu configuration can include up to 7 pages. (The configuration depends on the switch settings.) Contents and Settings of Each Page Each page’s contents and settings are described below. Basic menu page 1 Basic Menu Operations mA.IRIS : DTL LEV: M.
Basic menu page 2 Basic menu page 4 MARKER : ON mDUR TIME: MM:SS 00:00 mSKIN DTL: OFF DL LEV : STD Settings Item Settings SKIN DTL Sets the amount of skin detail correction. 0.0 to 0.5 (normal value) to 1.0 Smaller values set a softer skin detail. MARKER Sets marker display ON/OFF. DL LEV Sets the DynaLatitude level. LOW, STD (normal value), HIGH Set the amount of DynaLatitude effects as high level, standard level (STD), or low level.
Viewfinder Basic Menu Basic menu page 5 mMARK/CUE: MARK CHG REEL NO. (YESmPUSH) Item 3 Turn the MENU dial until the desired character appears, and press it. 4 5 Turn the MENU dial to move the text entry arrow. 6 After completing text entry, move the text entry cursor to the parenthesis position. Return to step 3 and repeat the text entry procedure. The display changes as follows. Settings MARK/CUE MARK (normal value), CUE Selects Mark mode See “ClipLink Shooting” (page 65).
5 Entering the title (page 6) 1 Repeat steps 2 to 4 until the title is complete. Press the MENU switch or turn the MENU dial as necessary to display basic menu page 6 (title setting display) in the viewfinder. E X I T ( Y E SmP U S H ) DSR-300 mTITLE SET(YESmPUSH) 6 This displays basic menu page 6 again. The title created is retained, even when you power the camcorder off. If a title is already present, it appears on this screen. 2 Align the cursor to EXIT and press the MENU dial.
Viewfinder Basic Menu When “CHECK DIAG” is displayed The “CHECK DIAG” indication appears in the status display area whenever the camcorder’s automatic self diagnostic function detects an abnormality. Access this page and perform error checking. (This page is displayed as basic menu page 1.) “CHECK DIAG” will also be displayed if there is a problem on the sync signal input to the GEN LOCK IN connector. Input a proper sync signal and then perform error checking.
Viewfinder Advanced Menu Advanced Menu Operations See also the figure on next page. To display the advanced menu Move the POWER switch to the ON position while holding down the MENU dial. To change the page Align the cursor to the page number and press the MENU dial while the page number is blinking. Turn the dial until the desired page. To select items in a page Press the MENU dial to blink the cursor, and press the MENU switch to move the cursor among the menu items.
Viewfinder Advanced Menu Normal indications T C G 1 2 : 3 4 : 5 6: 0 0 M 198 Move the POWER switch to the ON position with the MENU dial held down. 0 ND 9 8 0 4 01 1 0 : 0 0 AM S S: 1 / 1 0 00 Turn the MENU dial.a) Advanced menu page 1 page 2c) mPAGE1 ( N E X Tm$ P R E Vm4) P A G E 2 ( N E X Tm$ P R E Vm4) ALL RESET (YESmPUSH) Press the MENU dial.
Advanced menu page 2 Advanced menu page 3 P A G E 3 ( N E X Tm$ P R E V m4) P A G E 2 ( N E X Tm$ P R E V m4) mA W B M E M : PRE. WHT : TONE : BARS : REMOTE1 : REMOTE2 : BAUD RATE: GAIN m HIGH: 18dB MID : 9dB LOW : OdB DL : ON a) E X I T M E N U ( Y E SmPUSH) Item Settings GAIN This sets gain values for the positions of the GAIN switch. The HIGH, MID, and LOW values must be set so that LOW < MID < HIGH.
Viewfinder Advanced Menu Advanced menu page 4 Advanced menu page 5 PAGE4 (NEXTm$ PREVm4) MARKER : mZEBRA : ZEBRA1 : REC TIME: VF SDTL : VF TALLY: P A G E 5 ( N E X Tm$ P R E Vm4) CENT/90% 1 70IRE a) INT ±0 ×2 mS S LL IRIS GAIN FILTER WHITE SKIN EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH) a) For DSR-300P: 70% IND: IND: IND: IND: IND: IND: IND: ALWAYS ON ON ON ON ON ON E X I T M E N U ( Y E SmPUSH) Item Settings Item Settings MARKER Selects ON/OFF setting for center marker, size setting (percentage of viewfinder scre
3 Advanced menu page 6 The displayed character changes as you turn the dial. P A G E 6 ( N E X Tm$ P R E V m4) mA U D I O TAPE TC ID ID IND: IND: IND: IND: SET: ON ON ON OFF µ ( Press and turn the MENU dial to enter the desired characters. 4 Return to step 2 and repeat the text entry procedure. 5 ) Item Settings When you have finished entering the text, press and turn the MENU dial to move the cursor to the parenthesis position.
Viewfinder Advanced Menu EZ mode settings The following settings are set for the camcorder when EZ mode has been selected.
Advanced menu page 9 mPAGE9 (NEXTm$ PREVm4) M.BLACK : STRETCH : M.GAMMA : DTL LEV : V DTL LEV: DTL FREQ : ±O ±0 ±O ±0 ±0 M EXIT MENU (YESmPUSH) Item Settings M.BLACK and STRETCH See “Basic menu page 1” (page 78). M.GAMMA Adjusts the gamma curve. –99 to ±0 (normal value) to +99 DTL LEV Adjusts the detail. –99 to ±0(normal value) to +99 V DTL LEV Adjusts the vertical detail. –99 to ±0 (normal value) to +99 DTL FREQ Adjusts the central frequency of the detail.
Using SetupLog The SetupLog function records camcorder settings every few seconds at shooting and displays the recorded data in the viewfinder during playback. Status display (page 2) PLAY SETUP LOG A.IRIS DTL LEV M.BLACK STRETCH SS To view the SetupLog Data, perform the following procedure. 1 Turn the power on and load the tape that contains the recording to be viewed. 2 Play back the tape.
Setting on the VCR Section — VCR Menu Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings You can use the VCR menu for settings on the VCR section. Operation Menu No.
VCR Menu Operation Basic Operation Display window LIGHT WARNING PB DATE NDF EXT-LK H MIN SEC HOLD OVER OVER dB ON OFF 0 -12 FRM -20 CL CONT IP CLIP TAPE DVCAM BATT E Li F DIAG RF SERVO HUMID SLACK RESET 5 1,6 (MENU SET) COUNTER TC U-BIT 1 F 8 32k F 8 48k 2 2,4 REC TIME SKIN DTL TTL DUR OFF SET VTR TRIGGER HYPER GAIN ON OFF MENU EXT VTR OUTPUT ADVANCE SHIFT PRESET F-RUN ON COMPONENT. VBS OFF Y/C TTL RESET 1 DISPLAY -30 -40 -∞ MATRIX H.
On the DSR-300: Displayed in mmddyyyy format (Example: 10081998) On the DSR-300P: Displayed in ddmmyyyy format (Example: 08101998) Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar Menu 101 1 Display menu 101 and press the SHIFT button. The current calendar setting appears in the setting mode format (yyyymmdd). Example: October 8, 1998 19981008 Checking the Total Operating (Power-On) Hours Menu 201 1 Display menu 201 and press the SHIFT button.
VCR Menu Operation 1 Display menu 204. The menu number and the current frame mode setting are shown. If the setting does not need to be changed, press the MENU button to close the menu. 2 Example: dF (drop-frame mode) Press the SHIFT button until the desired battery name is displayed, then press the ADVANCE button. Pressing the ADVANCE button cycles through the following indications.
Example: 8 minutes To perform the auto-check 1 207 08 Display menu 210. Blinking 210 Standby-on period oFF Blinking If the setting does not need to be changed, press the MENU button to close the menu. 2 2 Press the SHIFT button until the standby-on period starts blinking, then press the ADVANCE button. Each press of the ADVANCE button changes the setting as follows. 08 (factory setting) n 01 n 03 n 05 3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button.
VCR Menu Operation 6 Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. Confirming the result Test recording starts. The display changes as shown below during recording. (The hyphen following “At” moves to right.) The result of the internal check is displayed in code as shown in the table below. When a problem is indicated, follow the instructions to check the camcorder and cassette. If no errors can be found, contact your Sony dealer.
Selecting ClipLink Function Selecting Audio Recording Mode Menu 211 This setting must be made when not using the ClipLink function. For details of the ClipLink function, see “ClipLink Shooting” (page 65). 1 Display menu 211. Menu 212 The audio recording mode can be set to either of the following modes. 48-kHz mode (factory setting): Enables twochannel recording mode with 48-kHz sampling frequency. 32-kHz mode: Enables four-channel recording mode with 32-kHz sampling frequency (for CH-1 and CH-2).
VCR Menu Operation Changing the audio reference level setting from –20 dB (or –18 dB) to –12 dB increases the audio recording level by 8 dB (or 6 dB) whether the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switch is set to AUTO or MANUAL. Selecting Audio Reference Level Menu 213 The audio reference level can be set to either of the following.
Using Setup Add (for DSR-300 Only) Menu 220 Use this menu to add setup to the playback video signals. 1 Display menu 220. The setup add is factory-set to oFF. 220 oFF Blinking Setup add on/oFF indication If the setting does not need to be changed, press the MENU button to close the menu. 2 Press the SHIFT button to make the setup add on/ oFF indication start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button to change the setting to on. 3 Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button.
White Balance Adjustment Adjusting the white balance ensures that as lighting conditions change white objects remain white in the image and tones remain natural. The color of light emitted varies from one light source to another, and as the lighting changes the apparent color of an illuminated subject changes. It is therefore necessary to adjust the white balance each time the principal lighting source changes. Saving an Appropriate White Balance Value in Memory 1 Make the following settings.
To save the white balance adjustment for different lighting conditions, repeat steps 2 to 4 above. You can save two different values for the white balance, in memories A and B. AUTO WHITE -NG:C.TEMP.HI CHG.FILTER TRY AGAIN To recall a white balance value from memory Before beginning shooting, set the W. BAL switch to the A or B position. This automatically sets the camcorder to the white balance adjustment saved in the corresponding memory.
White Balance Adjustment Light Sources and Color Temperature Using the ATW (Auto Tracing White Balance) Function Adjustment of the white balance to match the light source is essential to ensure correct color rendering. The color of a light source is indicated as a color temperature in kelvins (K). It is higher for bluish light, and lower for reddish light. When the camcorder is shipped it is adjusted for use with video lights (studio lamps with a color temperature of 3200 K).
Black Balance Adjustment Correct adjustment of the black a balance is important for optimum operation of a camcorder. It is necessary when using the camcorder for the first time or after a significant period out of use, and also when there has been a sudden change in temperature. The adjustment value is saved in memory, and readjustment is not normally necessary after powering the camcorder off or simply when lighting conditions change.
Shutter Settings This section covers the settings for electronic shutter speed, CLS (clear scan ) and EVS function. The new value for the shutter speed or clear scan frequency and EVS setting remains set until changed, even when the camcorder is powered off. Shutter speeds There are five shutter speeds, from 1/100 s (DSR-300) or 1 /60 s (DSR-300P) to 1/2000 s. Increasing the shutter speed reduces blurring when shooting a fast-moving subject.
When using the clear scan function Watching the monitor screen, adjust the frequency to give minimum interference. If there is a black band in the monitor image, reduce the frequency, and if there is a white band, increase the frequency. To return from the basic menu to the normal indications Press the MENU switch as many times as necessary until the normal indications appear. The new setting of the shutter speed or clear scan frequency appears in the normal screen display.
Viewfinder Screen Adjustments The following adjustments are provided to improve the visibility of the viewfinder screen. Although these adjustments may make the viewfinder image clearer, they have no effect on the output video signal from the camcorder. BRIGHT control Contrast and brightness adjustment Carry out these adjustments with the color bars displayed. 1 Set the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to the BARS position. The color bars appear in the viewfinder.
Adjusting the Lens Flange Focal Length Adjustment It is necessary to adjust the flange focal length (the distance from the lens flange to the plane of the image along the optical axis) in the following cases.
Iris Adjustments Iris ring M A RET W T Instant automatic iris button Iris selector ZEBRA button A.IRIS MODE switch There are three ways of adjusting the iris: automatically, manually, and with the instant automatic iris adjustment function. To make the image lighter when shooting against the light In the automatic iris adjustment mode, set the A.IRIS MODE switch to BACK L, turning the indicator on.
Adjusting the Lens Adjusting the Iris Sensitivity You usually need not adjust the iris sensitivity because lenses are equipped with iris sensitivity adjustment function. In auto iris mode, if hunting or response delay happens, adjust the iris sensitivity using the iris sensitivity trimmer. Macrophotography Use the macro function when the subject is less than about 1.1 m (4 feet) (for the VCL-714BXA) from the front of the lens. It is possible to shoot close-ups down to a range of 10 mm (wide angle, f = 7.
Settings for Special Cases Settings for special cases Shooting conditions Setting The background is very bright, and the subject is too dark. Set the A.IRIS MODE switch to BACK L, This lightens the foreground. turning the indicator on. The subject is under a spotlight. Set the A.IRIS MODE switch to SPOT L, This prevents white burn-out in highlights turning the indicator on. of faces and clothes. The subject is completely still (e.g.
Settings for Special Cases Skin Detail Correction Adjusting Color in the Specified Area The DSR-300/300P provides an easy push-button function that designates an active skin tone area Note The SKIN DTL SET button is disabled while a title is displayed in basic menu page 7 or color bars are displayed. Before skin detail correction, clear the title or color bars display. You can adjust the color of the specified area.
Important Notes on Operation Do not cover the unit while operating Putting a cloth, for example, over the unit can cause excessive internal heat build-up. Operation and storage Avoid storing or operating the unit in the following conditions. • In excessive heat or cold (operating temperature range: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)) Remember that in summer in warm climates the temperature inside a car with the windows closed can easily exceed 50°C (122°F).
Cleaning the Video Heads Always use the special-purpose Sony DVM-12CL Cleaning Cassette for cleaning the audio and video heads. Follow the instructions with the cleaning cassette carefully, as inappropriate use of the cleaning cassette can damage the heads. Note The DVM-12CL Cleaning Cassette can be used only once. When the DVM-12CL is loaded in the camcorder, only STOP, PLAY and EJECT buttons function.
Warning System When the camcorder is powered on, or if a fault occurs during operation, a warning is given in the following ways: • By warning indications in the display window. • By means of the WARNING indicator together with a warning tone from the speaker or earphone. • By the warning indicators in the viewfinder. You can adjust the volume of the warning tone with the ALARM knob. When this knob is turned to the minimum position, there is no sound output at all.
Warning System Condensation If you move a camcorder suddenly from a very cold place to a warm place, or use it in a very humid location, condensation may form on the head drum. If it is operated in this state, the tape may adhere to the drum, and cause a failure or even permanent damage. Take the following steps to prevent this from happening: • Remove the cassette before moving the camcorder from a very cold place to a warm place.
Troubleshooting You can use this chart to establish possible causes of an apparent problem; always double-check before sending the unit for repair. If a problem persists, contact your Sony dealer. Troubleshooting chart Symptoms Cause Remedy The unit does not power on when you turn the POWER switch on. There is no battery pack loaded. Load a battery pack (page 44). The battery pack has reached the end of Replace the battery pack with a fully its usable life. charged one (page 44).
Troubleshooting Symptoms The time code setting is not possible. The time code value does not advance though the TC mode switch 1 or 2 is set to the F-RUN or DATE/TIME. Appendix 118 Appendix Troubleshooting chart (continued) Cause At the recording, the ClipLink function is set to on (meaning ClipLink shooting is allowed) in menu 211, CONT is displayed in the display window and the time code generator is in the REGEN mode. Remedy Only the REGEN mode can be used for ClipLink shooting.
Specifications DSR-300/300P AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2:XLR-3 pin × 2, male –60 dBu, 3 kΩ +4 dBu, 10 kΩ (0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms) GEN LOCK IN: BNC 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω TC IN: BNC 0.5 to 18 Vp-p, 10 kΩ DC IN: XLR-4 pin, female Output connectors AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2: phono jack –10 dBu, 47 kΩ (0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms) VIDEO OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω MONITOR OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω S VIDEO OUT: DIN 4 pin 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω TC OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 Ω DC OUT: XLR-4 pin, male EARPHONE: mini-jack –∞ to –15.
Specifications External dimensions in millimeters (inches) Focal length Zoom 534 (21 1/8) 192 (7 5/8) 247 (9 3/4) 242 (9 5/8) VCL-714BXA Zoom Lens 121 (4 7/8) 270 (10 3/4) Tape transport system Tape speed Approx. 28.2 mm/s Recording/playback time (using PDV-184ME) Max. 184 minutes Fast forward/rewind time (using PDV-184ME) Max.
Supplied accessories LC-300SFT Soft Carrying Case1) (1) VCL-714BXA Zoom Lens2) (1) DXF-701WS/701WSCE Viewfinder (1) Microphone (1) Wind screen (1) VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor (1) Shoulder strap (1) RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit (1) Lens mount cap (1) Flange focal length adjustment test chart (1) Switch guard (1) Operating Instructions (1) ClipLink™ Guide (1) Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Chart of Optional Components and Accessories Video monitor EC-0.5C2/0.
Glossary Aliasing Distortion of the signal caused by overlap of the baseband signal and lower sideband signal when the signal is demodulated. Aperture compensation Electronic compensation for frequency response degradations caused to sampled high-frequency signals by the limited aperture of CCD image sensors. Black balance adjustment To balance the black levels of the R, G, and B channels of a video camera so that black has no color. CCD Charge-coupled device.
S/N Signal-to-Noise ratio. The relation of the strength of the desired signal to the accompanying electronic interference, the noise. If S/N is high, sounds are reproduced with less noise and pictures are reproduced clearly without snow. Search The search function enables recorded images or time codes to be viewed while the tape is played back at various forward or reverse speeds, as a means of locating a particular scene in the taped program. Standby-off mode One of the stop modes.