3-859-084-22 (1) Video Camera Recorder Operating Instructions Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. Owner’s record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. CCD-TR3400 Model No. AC- Serial No. Serial No.
Welcome! Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Handycam® camcorder. With your Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Handycam is loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come. WARNING For the customers in the U.S.A. CAUTION To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
Table of contents Before you begin Using this manual .................................. 4 Checking supplied accessories ............. 5 Getting started Charging and installing the battery pack .................................................... 6 Inserting a cassette ................................. 9 Basic operations Camera recording ................................. 10 Using the zoom feature ................. 12 Hints for better shooting ..................... 13 Checking the recorded picture .........
Before you begin Using this manual As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on the camcorder are shown in capital letters. e.g. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA. As indicated with ≥ in the illustrations, you can hear the beep sound to confirm your operation. Note on TV color systems TV color systems differ from country to country. To view your recordings on a TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.
Checking supplied accessories Check that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Before you begin 1 9 1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p.90) 2 NP-F530 Battery pack (1) (p.6) 3 AC-V316 or AC-V316A AC power adaptor (1) (p.6, 19) 4 CR2025 Lithium Battery (1) (p.71) The lithium battery is already installed in your camcorder. 5 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p.90) 6 A/V connecting cable (1) (p.15) 7 Shoulder strap (1) (p.92) 8 Battery case (1) (p.
Getting started Charging and installing the battery pack Before using your camcorder, you first need to charge and install the battery pack. To charge the battery pack, use the supplied AC power adaptor. This camcorder operates with the “InfoLITHIUM” battery. If you use any other battery to operate your camcorder, the camcorder may not operate or the battery life may be shortened. “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Charging and installing the battery pack Battery life Battery pack Continuous recording time1) (min.) NP-F530 (supplied) NP-F730 NP-F930 110 (100) 250 (225) 400 (360) 65 (60) 150 (135) 225 (200) 2) The available time for a fully charged battery is indicated outside parentheses. The available time for normal charged battery is indicated in parentheses. Battery life will be shorter if you use the camcorder in a cold environment. 1) Approximate continuous recording time indoors.
Charging and installing the battery pack Installing the battery pack Align the grooves of the battery pack with the receptacles of the camcorder and slide the battery pack down until it catches on the battery release lever and clicks. Make sure the battery pack is installed securely. When the NP-F930 battery pack is installed We recommend you to lift the viewfinder up slightly. Note on carrying the camcorder Do not carry the camcorder by grasping the battery pack.
Inserting a cassette Make sure that the power source is installed. When you want to record in the Hi8 system, use Hi8 video cassette H. (1) While pressing the small blue button on the EJECT switch, slide it in the direction of the arrow. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens. 1 2 3 Getting started (2) Insert a cassette with the window facing out. (3) Close the cassette compartment by pressing the “PUSH” mark on the cassette compartment.
Basic operations Camera recording Make sure that the power source is installed and a cassette is inserted. Before you record one-time events, you may want to make a trial recording to make sure that the camcorder is working correctly. When you use the camcorder for the first time, power on it and reset the date and time to your time before you start recording. (p.
Camera recording To stop recording momentarily [a] Press START/STOP again. The “STBY” indicator appears in the viewfinder (Standby mode). To finish recording [b] Press START/STOP again. Turn STANDBY down and set the POWER switch to OFF. Then, eject the cassette, remove the battery pack and put the lens cap on the lens.
Camera recording Using the zoom feature Zooming is a recording technique that lets you change the size of the subject in the scene. For more professional-looking recordings, use the zoom function sparingly. “T” side: for telephoto (subject appears closer) “W” side: for wide-angle (subject appears farther away) W T W W T T Zooming speed (Variable speed zooming) Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom, move it further for a faster zoom.
Hints for better shooting For hand-held shots, you’ll get better results by holding the camcorder according to the following suggestions: [a] [b] 1 2 • Hold the camcorder firmly and secure it with the grip strap so that you can easily manipulate the controls with your thumb [a]. • Place your right elbow against your side. • Place your left hand under the camcorder to support it. Be sure to not touch the builtin microphone. • Place your eye firmly against the viewfinder eyecup.
Checking the recorded picture Using EDITSEARCH, you can review the last recorded scene or check the recorded picture in the viewfinder. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to CAMERA. (2) Turn STANDBY up. (3) Press the РΠside of EDITSEARCH momentarily; the last few seconds of the recorded portion play back (Rec Review). Hold down the Рside of EDITSEARCH until the camcorder goes back to the scene you want. The last recorded portion is played back.
Connections for playback Connect the camcorder to your VCR or TV to watch the playback picture on the TV screen. There are some ways to connect the camcorder to your TV. When monitoring the playback picture by connecting the camcorder to your TV, we recommend you to use house current for the power source.
Playing back a tape You can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can also monitor a picture on a TV screen, after connecting the camcorder to a TV or VCR. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR. The tape transport buttons light up. (2) Insert the recorded tape with the window facing out. (3) Press · to start playback.
Playing back a tape Various playback modes To view a still picture (playback pause) Press P during playback. To resume playback, press P or ·. To locate a scene (picture search) Keep pressing 0 or ) during playback. To resume normal playback, release the button. Keep pressing 0 while rewinding or ) while advancing the tape. To resume normal playback, press ·.
Playing back a tape Displaying the date or time when you recorded – data code function Even if you did not record the date or time when you were recording, you can display the date or time when you recorded (Data Code) on the TV during playback or editing. The Data Code is also displayed in the viewfinder and the display window. To display the date when you recorded Press DATE on the camcorder, or press DATA CODE on the Remote Commander. To make the date disappear, press DATE again or DATA CODE twice.
Advanced operations Using alternative power sources You can choose any of the following power sources for your camcorder: battery pack, alkaline battery, house current and 12/24 V car battery. Choose the appropriate power source depending on where you want to use your camcorder.
Using alternative power sources Using alkaline batteries Use the battery case (supplied) and six size AA (LR6) Sony Alkaline batteries (not supplied). (1) Remove the battery holder from the battery case. (2) Insert six new alkaline batteries into the battery holder, following the marking on the holder to be sure the batteries are installed in the correct direction. (3) Insert the battery holder with the alkaline batteries.
Changing the mode settings You can change the mode settings in the menu system to further enjoy the features and functions of the camcorder. (1) Press MENU to display the menu. (2) Turn the control dial so that the desired item is highlighted white. (3) Press the control dial. The setting menu appears. (4) Turn the control dial to highlight a setting, and press the control dial to select it. (5) If you want to change the other modes, repeat steps 2 to 4.
Changing the mode settings BEEP • Select ON so that beeps sound when you start/stop recording, etc. • Select OFF when you do not want to hear the beep sound. VF BRIGHT* Select this item to adjust the brightness of the viewfinder. The viewfinder becomes brighter when you turn the control dial up, and darker when you turn the control dial down. VF PW-SAVE* • Select ON to activate finder power save function. • Select OFF to not use finder power save function.
Changing the mode settings Items for VTR mode only EDIT • Select ON to minimize picture deterioration when editing. • Normally select OFF. HiFi SOUND • Normally select STEREO. • Select 1 or 2 to play back a dual sound track tape. DNR* • Select ON to reduce picture noise. • Select OFF to not reduce noise. * These settings are retained even when the battery is removed, as long as the lithium battery is in place.
Recording with the date or time Before you start recording or during recording, press DATE or TIME. You can record the date or time displayed in the viewfinder with the picture. You cannot record the date and time at the same time. Except for the date or time indicator, no indicator in the viewfinder is recorded. The clock is set to East Coast Standard Time at the factory. You can reset the clock in the menu system. DATE JUL.
Fade-in and fade-out You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance. When fading in, the picture gradually fades in from black or mosaic while the sound increases. When fading out, the picture gradually fades to black or mosaic while the sound decreases. When fading in [a] (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER/OVERLAP. The fade indicator starts flashing. (2) Press START/STOP to start recording. The fade indicator stops flashing.
Overlapping two pictures When you switch from one scene to another, you can overlap the two pictures. With this function, the first scene turns to the second one gradually. You can hear the sound of the second scene gradually as you start recording the second scene. (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER/OVERLAP repeatedly so that the OVERLAP indicator appears in the viewfinder. (2) Press START/STOP to record the next scene. The OVERLAP indicator disappears after the overlapping.
Wiping away a still picture When you switch from one scene to another, you can wipe away the still picture. With this function, the first still picture is wiped away from the center to reveal the moving picture underneath. You can hear the sound of the second scene as you start recording the second scene. (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press FADER/OVERLAP repeatedly so that the WIPE indicator appears in the viewfinder. (2) Press START/STOP to record the next scene.
Enjoying picture effect Selecting picture effect You can make pictures like those of television with the Picture Effect function. [a] [b] [c] [d] [e] [f] MOSAIC [a] NEG. ART [c] The picture is mosaic. The picture is reversed. SOLARIZE [b] PASTEL [d] The light intensity is more clear, and the picture looks like an illustration. The contrast of the picture is emphasized, and the picture looks like an animated cartoon. B&W The picture expands vertically.
Enjoying picture effect Using picture effect function (1) Press PICTURE EFFECT. (2) Turn the control dial to select the desired picture effect mode. 1 PICTURE EFFECT 2 MOSAIC B&W SEPIA NEG. ART PASTEL Advanced operations SOLARIZE SLIM STRETCH To turn off picture effect Press PICTURE EFFECT to turn off the picture effect indicator. If the indicator remains lit, press it repeatedly until the indicator goes out.
Recording a still picture You can record a still picture like those of still camera or shoot a moving picture with superimposing a still picture while the sound is recorded normally. (1) Press DIGITAL EFFECT and turn the control dial to select the still indicator. (2) Press the control dial to select still mode. The still indicator and still bars appear in the viewfinder, and still picture is stored in memory.
Recording still pictures successively Using the Flash motion function, you can record still pictures successively at constant intervals. You can select intervals by adjusting the flash bars with the control dial. The sound is recorded normally during Flash motion. (1) Press DIGITAL EFFECT and turn the control dial to select the flash motion indicator. (2) Press the control dial to select flash mode. The flash motion indicator and flash motion bars appear in the viewfinder.
Superimposing a moving picture on a still picture Using the Luminancekey function, you can replace a brighter color scheme portion of a still picture by a moving picture. For example, you can superimpose the favorite scene on the background if you store the picture in memory as a still picture, such as a person in the bright background . The sound is recorded normally during Luminancekey function. (1) Press DIGITAL EFFECT and turn the control dial to select the luminancekey indicator.
Re-recording a picture in the middle of a recorded tape You can insert a scene in the middle of a recorded tape by setting the starting and ending points. The previous recorded portion will be erased. If the RC time code appears in the viewfinder, set COUNTER to NORMAL in the menu system to display the tape counter. (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, keep pressing the + (forward playback) or – (reverse playback) side of EDITSEARCH, and release the button where you want to end the insertion [b].
Using the wide mode function Selecting the desired mode You can record a cinemalike picture (CINEMA) or a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9 FULL). [b] CINEMA [a] CINEMA [c] [e] 16:9 FULL [d] 16:9 FULL [f] CINEMA Black bands appear at the top and the bottom of the screen, and the viewfinder [a] and a normal TV screen [b] look wide. You can also watch the picture without black bands on a wide-screen TV [c].
Using the wide mode function To cancel wide mode Press 16:9WIDE repeatedly until the wide mode indicator disappears. To watch the tape recorded in wide mode To watch the tape recorded in CINEMA mode, set the screen mode of the wide-screen TV to zoom mode. To watch the tape recorded in 16:9 FULL mode, set it to full mode. For details, refer to the instruction manual of your TV. Note that the picture recorded in 16:9 FULL mode looks compressed on a normal TV.
Selecting the START/STOP mode Your camcorder has two modes besides normal start/stop mode. These modes enable you to take a series of quick shots resulting in a lively video. (1) Set the START/STOP MODE switch to the desired mode. : Recording starts when you press START/STOP, and stops when you press it again (normal mode). (ANTI GROUND SHOOTING): The camcorder records only while you press down START/STOP so that you can avoid recording unnecessary scenes.
Superimposing a title You can select one of eight preset titles. You can also select the language, position, and color of titles in the menu system. Selecting the language (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu. (2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE LANG, then press the dial. (3) Turn the control dial to select the desired language, then press the dial. (4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.
Superimposing a title Using titles To add the title from the beginning (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press TITLE repeatedly until the desired title appears. Each time a new title appears, it flashes. When the desired title appears, wait for it to stop flashing. Titles cycle as follows.
Superimposing a title To select the color of the title (1) While in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu. (2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE COL and press the control dial to select it. The color menu appears. (3) Turn the control dial to highlight a color, and press the control dial to select it. (4) Press MENU to erase the menu display.
Making your own original titles You can make up to two titles and store them in the camcorder. Eject the cassette before you begin. Your title can have up to 22 letters. (1) While in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu. (2) Turn the control dial to select TITLE 1 SET or TITLE 2 SET, then press the dial. (3) Turn the control dial to highlight a letter, and press the control dial to select it. (4) Repeat step 3 until you finish the title.
Checking the tape condition before recording (ORC) Use this feature to check the tape condition before recording, so that you can get the best possible picture. (1) While in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu. (2) Turn the control dial to highlight ORC TO SET and press the control dial to select it. “START/STOP KEY” appears.
Releasing the STEADY SHOT function When you shoot, the indicator appears in the viewfinder. This indicates that the Steady Shot function is working and the camcorder compensates for camera-shake. Set STEADY SHOT to OFF. STEADY SHOT ON OFF To activate the Steady Shot function again Set STEADY SHOT to ON. Notes on the Steady Shot function • The Steady Shot function will not correct excessive camera-shake.
Selecting automatic/manual adjustment modes The camcorder’s automatic functions offer you worry-free operation under most shooting conditions. But in some circumstances, manual adjustment is better for creative recording. You can adjust focus, aperture, shutter speed, gain, and white balance automatically or manually. Also, you can use the PROGRAM AE function in particular circumstances, and adjust the brightness of the picture with the AE shift function. Here’s the overview of each manual adjustment.
Focusing manually When to use manual focus In the following cases you should obtain better results by adjusting the focus manually. [a] [b] • • • • • • • • [c] [d] Insufficient light [a] Subjects with little contrast – walls, sky, etc. [b] Too much brightness behind the subject [c] Horizontal stripes [d] Subjects through frosted glass Subjects beyond nets, etc.
Focusing manually To return to autofocus mode Set FOCUS to AUTO. The f indicator in the viewfinder disappears. Shooting in relatively dark places Shoot at wide-angle after focusing in the telephoto position. Note on the focus ring The focus ring does not have a stop position. To shoot with autofocus momentarily To record a very distant subject Push FOCUS down to INFINITY. The lens focuses on the most distant subject while FOCUS is held down. When it is released, manual focus mode is resumed.
Using the PROGRAM AE function About the PROGRAM AE function You can select from three PROGRAM AE modes to fit the shooting situation. Set AUTO LOCK/HOLD to the center position. Press PROGRAM AE, then select the desired mode by turning the control dial. Each time you turn the dial, the indicator in the viewfinder changes: AE A (Aperture Priority) ˜ AE S (Shutter Priority) ˜ Å (Twilight).
Using the PROGRAM AE Function To return to automatic adjustment mode Set AUTO LOCK/HOLD to AUTO LOCK, or press PROGRAM AE so that no indicator appears in the viewfinder. About the depth of focus field The depth of focus field is the in-focus range measured from the distance behind a subject to the distance in front. The depth of focus field can vary with the aperture value and the focal length. Lowering the F value (larger aperture) reduces the depth of focus field.
Using the PROGRAM AE Function When shooting a very bright subject A vertical band (smear) may appear on the screen if the shutter speed is set too high. To select the best shutter speed Subject Shutter speed • A golf swing or tennis match in fine weather (to view the hit ball clearly in still picture mode, set to 1/1000 to 1/4000) 1/725 – 1/10000 • A landscape shot from a moving car • A moving roller coaster in overcast days • An athletic scene, marathon, etc.
Using manual mode The manual mode features an advanced recording technique by controlling the exposure with a combination of adjustments of the aperture value, shutter speed and gain level. When to use manual mode [a] [b] [c] [d] Item Aperture Shutter speed Gain Selectable steps Variation of exposure Advanced operations • When the background is too bright (backlighting) [a], open the aperture (lower F value). • When the subject is bright with dark background [b], close the aperture (higher F value).
Using manual mode Shooting in manual mode In manual mode, you can adjust the aperture, shutter speed and gain independently. Use the graph on page 53 for your reference to set a value of each item. (1) Set AUTO LOCK/HOLD to the center position. (2) Press the button of the item you want to adjust (IRIS, SHUTTER SPEED, or GAIN). (3) Turn the control dial to adjust the selected item.
Using manual mode To adjust the gain You can select the gain from the following 8 levels: –3 dB, 0 dB, +3 dB, +6 dB, +9 dB, +12 dB, +15 dB, +18 dB. To increase the gain to brighten the picture, select a higher level. If you adjusted the aperture manually prior to adjusting the gain, the gain level is set according to the aperture setting. To change the setting Press the button of the item you want to change so that the selected item indicator highlights in the viewfinder.
Using slow shutter If you want to record a dark picture brightly, or represent the movement of the subject lively, set the shutter speed to 1/30, 1/15, 1/8 or 1/4 (Slow shutter). (1) Set AUTO LOCK/HOLD to the center position. (2) Press SHUTTER SPEED. The shutter speed value indicator appears in the display. (3) Turn the control dial to select the desired shutter speed (1/30, 1/15, 1/8 or 1/4). As the indicator in the viewfinder becomes smaller, the shutter speed becomes slower.
Tips for manual adjustment When you shoot in manual adjustment mode, we recommend you to keep the exposure fixed to make a clear picture. This section shows you what the exposure is and how to adjust each item with the exposure fixed. Understanding the exposure Exposure is determined by aperture, shutter speed and gain, and is measured in EV (exposure value) as shown below. The total exposure value can be varied or maintained at a constant level by controlling the aperture, gain and shutter speed.
Tips for manual adjustment Creating a desired picture without changing the exposure When the aperture value is F11, the shutter speed is 1/60, and the gain level is 0 dB, adjust the aperture value manually to F5.6, as an example. If you change the aperture value from F11 to F5.6 in the above example, the exposure from aperture control becomes brighter by +2 EV. Adjust the shutter speed and the gain so that the exposure becomes darker by –2 EV to not change the total exposure.
Shooting with backlighting When you shoot a subject with the light source behind the subject or a subject with a light background, use the BACK LIGHT function. Press BACK LIGHT. The c indicator appears in the viewfinder. [a] Advanced operations [b] BACK LIGHT c [a] Subject is too dark because of backlight. [b] Subject becomes bright with backlight compensation. After shooting Be sure to release this adjustment condition by pressing BACK LIGHT again. The c indicator disappears.
Adjusting the brightness of the picture When you shoot in a snowfield or on a beach in the mid-summer and the subject may become dark because of the extreme brightness, you can change the brightness of the picture in the menu system. You can also use this function when the subject is too bright — subjects on stages, night views, etc. (1) While the camcorder is in Standby mode, press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (2) Turn the control dial to select AE SHIFT, then press the control dial.
Adjusting the white balance White balance is the adjustment to make white subjects look white and to obtain a more natural color balance.
Adjusting the white balance Setting the white balance mode (1) Set AUTO LOCK/HOLD to the center position. (2) Press WHT BAL so that the white balance indicator appears in the viewfinder. (3) Turn the control dial to select the desired mode. When you select one push white balance mode, press the control dial after selecting the one push white balance indicator.
Adjusting the white balance (1) Set AUTO LOCK/HOLD to the center position. (2) Press WHT BAL, then turn the control dial to select one push white balance indicator. (3) Attach the supplied white lens cap and point the camcorder at a subject if you are shooting outdoors or at a source of light if shooting indoors. (4) Press the control dial. The one push white balance indicator starts to flash quickly. Once the white balance is set, the indicator stops flashing.
Searching the boundaries of recorded date You can search for the boundary between recording dates using the Date Code automatically recorded on the tape.
Searching the boundaries of recorded date Notes on Date Search and Date Scan mode • If a day’s recording is not longer than 2 minutes, the camcorder may not accurately find its boundaries. • Date Search and Date Scan do not function on a tape recorded by a camcorder without the Data Code function. Your camcorder has the Data Code function. • When searching the boundaries of date on the tape, the forwarded or reversed picture appears in the viewfinder. Visual noise also appears during this searching.
Locating the marking position You can locate the beginning of a desired program easily by marking an index signal during recording or playback and searching for it later. Marking an index signal You can mark an index signal during recording or playback. When marking at the beginning of recording or playback Press INDEX MARK on the Remote Commander in recording standby or playback pause mode. The INDEX MARK indicator appears in the viewfinder with the MARK indicator flashing.
Locating the marking position Scanning the beginning of each marking position – index scan Use the Remote Commander. To view the picture on a TV, press DISPLAY. (1) Press INDEX on the Remote Commander during normal playback. (2) Press 0 or ). The tape rewinds or advances rapidly and plays back for approximately 10 seconds from the point on which the index signal was marked. If you want to continue playback, press ·. When you do not press any button, the tape is automatically scanned to the next program.
Locating the marking position Locating the desired marking position – index search (1) Press INDEX on the Remote Commander during stop or playback mode. (2) Press INDEX repeatedly until the index number of the desired program is displayed in the viewfinder. (3) Press 0 or ). Playback starts from the beginning of the desired program.
Locating the marking position Erasing an index signal (1) Locate the index signal to be erased using the index scan or index search function. (2) Press INDEX ERASE on the Remote Commander within 2 to 10 seconds while the desired program plays back. After the index signal is erased, the camcorder returns to index scan or index search mode, whichever was used in step 1.
Writing the RC Time code on a recorded tape You can write the RC time code on a recorded tape. Use the Remote Commander. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR. (2) Rewind the tape to the beginning and set the camcorder to playback pause mode. (3) Press TIME CODE WRITE on the Remote Commander. The TIME CODE WRITE indicator appears in the viewfinder with the WRITE indicator flashing. (4) Press · or P to start playback.
Writing the RC Time code on a recorded tape Note on --:--:--:-- indicator The --:--:--:-- indicator appears during playback if: • nothing is recorded. • the RC time code is unreadable because of the damage of the tape or because of the noise. • you recorded using another VCR without RC time code function. • you erase the index signal or make PCM after recording on another VCR in the portion on which the RC time code is written. In this case, we recommend you to rewrite the RC time code.
Editing onto another tape Starting editing (1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into the VCR, and insert your recorded tape into the camcorder. (2) Play back the recorded tape on the camcorder until you locate the point where you want to start editing, then press P to set the camcorder in playback pause mode. (3) On the VCR, locate the recording start point and set the VCR in recording pause mode. (4) Press P on the camcorder and VCR simultaneously to start editing.
Recording from a VCR or TV You can record a tape from another VCR or TV program from a TV that has audio/ video outputs. Connect the camcorder to the VCR or TV. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR. (2) Press r REC and the button on far right together at the point where you want to start recording. In recording and recording pause mode, S VIDEO and VIDEO/AUDIO jacks automatically work as input jacks.
Recording from a VCR or TV Replacing recording on a tape (insert editing) You can insert a new scene from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by specifying starting and ending points. Connections are the same as in “Recording from a VCR or TV” on the previous page. (1) While pressing the small green button on the POWER switch, set it to VTR. (2) On the VCR, locate the start point to be inserted and set it to playback pause mode.
Additional Information Changing the lithium battery in the camcorder Your camcorder is supplied with a lithium battery installed. When the battery becomes weak or dead, the I indicator flashes in the viewfinder for about 5 seconds when you set the POWER switch to CAMERA. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 or Duracell DL-2025 lithium battery. Use of any other battery may present a risk of fire or explosion. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Resetting the date and time You can set the date and time in the menu system. (1) Press MENU to display the menu in the viewfinder. (2) Turn the control dial to highlight CLOCK SET, and press the control dial to select it. (3) Turn the control dial to adjust the year, and then press the control dial. (4) Set the month, day, hour, and minutes by turning the control dial and then pressing the control dial. (5) Press MENU to erase the menu display.
Usable cassettes and playback modes Selecting cassette types This Hi8 system is an extension of the standard 8 mm system, and was developed for higher-quality pictures. You can use Hi8 video and standard 8 mm cassettes. When you want to record in the Hi8 system (in SP mode only), use only Hi8 video cassettes. You cannot record on standard 8 mm cassettes in the Hi8 system. If you are going to play back the tape using a standard 8 mm video recorder/player, you should record the tape on a standard 8 mm system.
Tips for using the battery pack This section shows you how you can get the most out of your battery pack. Preparing the battery pack Always carry additional batteries Have sufficient battery pack power to do 2 to 3 times as much recording as you have planned. Battery life is shorter in a cold environment Battery efficiency is decreased, and the battery will be used up more quickly, if you are recording in a cold environment.
Tips for using the battery pack The switch on the battery pack This switch is provided so that you can mark the charged battery pack. Set the switch to the “green mark” position when charging is completed. (When removed from the charging adaptor, the switch exposes the green mark. When removed from your camcorder, no mark is indicated.) The life of the battery pack Charging temperature You should charge batteries at temperatures from 50°F to 86°F (from 10°C to 30°C).
Tips for using the battery pack Why the remaining battery indication does not match the continuous recording time in the operation manual The recording time is affected by the environmental temperature and conditions. The recording time becomes very short in a cold environment. The continuous recording time in the operation manual is measured under the condition of using a fully charged (or normal charged2)) battery pack in 77°F (25°C).
Tips for using the battery pack Notes on the battery case Additional information • Use only with alkaline batteries. You cannot use the battery case with manganese batteries or size AA (LR6) rechargeable NiCd batteries. • Using with Sony alkaline batteries is preferable. • Battery life is remarkably shorter in a cold environment (lower than 50°F/10°C). • Keep the metal part clean. If it gets dirty, wipe it with a soft cloth. • Do not disassemble or try to disassemble the battery case.
Maintenance information and precautions Video head cleaning To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads. When the v indicator and “ CLEANING CASSETTE” message appear one after another in the viewfinder or playback pictures are “noisy” or hardly visible, the video heads may be dirty. [a] [b] [a] Slightly dirty [b] Very dirty If this happens, clean the video heads with the Sony V8-25CLH cleaning cassette (not supplied).
Maintenance information and precautions Camcorder care • When the camcorder is not to be used for a long time, disconnect the power source and remove the tape. Periodically turn on the power, operate the camera and player sections and play back a tape for about 3 minutes. • Clean the lens with a soft brush to remove dust. If there are fingerprints on it, remove them with a soft cloth. • Clean the camcorder body with a dry soft cloth, or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution.
Using your camcorder abroad Each country or area has its own electric and TV color systems. Before using your camcorder abroad, check the following points. Power sources You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the supplied AC power adaptor within 110 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b]. AC-V316/V316A [a] [b] Difference in color systems This camcorder is an NTSC system-based camcorder.
Trouble check If you run into any problem using the camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. Should the difficulty persist, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. Camcorder Power Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Action • The battery pack is not installed. m Install the battery pack. (p.8) • The battery is dead. m Use a charged battery pack. (p.6) • The AC power adaptor is not connected to a wall outlet.
Trouble check Operation Symptom Recording stops in a few seconds. Cause and/or Corrective Action • The START/STOP MODE switch is set to 5 SEC or m Set it to . (p.36) . The cassette cannot be removed from • The battery is dead. the holder. m Use a charged battery pack or the AC power adaptor. (p.6, 19) { and 6 indicators flash and no function except for cassette ejection works. • Moisture condensation has occurred. m Remove the cassette and leave the camcorder for at least 1 hour. (p.
Trouble check Picture Cause and/or Corrective Action Symptom The image on the viewfinder screen is not clear. • The viewfinder lens is not adjusted. m Adjust the viewfinder lens. (p.11) A vertical band appears when a subject such as lights or a candle flame is shot against a dark background. • The contrast between the subject and background is too high. The camcorder is not malfunctioning. m Change locations. The menu is not displayed on the TV. • DISPLAY on the Remote Commander has not been pressed.
Trouble check AC power adaptor Symptom Corrective Actions The VTR/CAMERA or CHARGE lamp does not light. • Disconnect the power cord. After about 1 minute, reconnect the power cord. The CHARGE lamp flashes. • See the following chart. When the CHARGE lamp flashes Check through the following chart. Remove the battery pack from the AC power adaptor. Then install the same battery pack again. When the CHARGE lamp flashes again Install another battery pack.
Specifications Video camera recorder System General Power requirements 7.2 V (battery pack) 8.4 V (AC power adaptor) Average power consumption 4.4 W during camera recording Operating temperature 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C) Storage temperature –4°F to +140°F (–20°C to +60°C) Dimensions (Approx.) 4 3/ 8 x 4 3/8 x 8 1/ 2 inches (110 x 110 x 215 mm) (w/h/d) Mass (Approx.) 2 lb (910 g) excluding the battery pack, lithium battery, cassette, lens cap and shoulder strap 2 lb 6 oz (1.
Identifying the parts 9 !º !¡ !™ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 !£ !¢ !∞ !§ !¶ 1 POWER switch (p.10) 2 STEADY SHOT switch (p.42) 9 Eyecup (p.13) !º Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p.11) 3 MENU button (p.21) !¡ Power zoom lever (p.12) 4 Control dial (p.21) 5 PICTURE EFFECT button (p.29) !™ BATT (battery) PUSH button (p.8) !£ STANDBY switch (p.10, 11) 6 DIGITAL EFFECT button (p.30) !¢ START/STOP button (p.10, 11) 7 TITLE button (p.38) !∞ Hooks for shoulder strap (p.92) 8 16:9WIDE button (p.
Identifying the parts !• !ª @£ @º @¢ @∞ @¡ !• EJECT switch (p.9) !ª LANC l control jack l stands for Local Application Control Bus System. The l control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video equipment and peripherals connected to it. This jack has the same function as the jack indicated as CONTROL L or REMOTE. @º Cassette compartment (p.9) @§ @£ RFU DC OUT (RFU adaptor DC output) jack (p.15) Additional information @™ @¢ S VIDEO jack (p.15) @∞ VIDEO/AUDIO jacks (p.
Identifying the parts @¶ @• @ª #¢ #º #∞ #¡ #§ #™ #¶ #£ @¶ Tape transport buttons (p.16, 17, 68) π STOP (stop) 0 REW (rewind) · PLAY (playback) ) FF (fastforward) P PAUSE (pause) r REC (recording) #• #¢ FADER/OVERLAP button (p.25, 26, 27) #∞ BACK LIGHT button (p.55) #§ Display window (p.93) #¶ PUSH AUTO button (p.45) #• FOCUS switch (p.44) @• EDITSEARCH button (p.14) @ª Accessory shoe Supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light. #º Focus ring (p.44) #¡ Remote sensor (p.
Identifying the parts #ª $¢ $º $¡ $∞ $§ $¶ $• %º $™ $£ %¡ #ª Lighting aperture $¢ Viewfinder (p.11) $º COUNTER RESET button (p.11, 33, 61) $∞ TIME button (p.18, 24) $¡ DATE button (p.18, 24) $™ Lithium battery compartment (p.71) $§ AUTO LOCK/HOLD switch (p.46) $¶ WHT BAL(white balance) button (p.58) $£ Tripod receptacle (p.13) $• GAIN button (p.50) Additional information $ª $ª SHUTTER SPEED button (p.50, 52) %º IRIS button (p.50) %¡ PROGRAM AE button (p.
Identifying the parts Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on the camcorder function identically. 6 7 8 9 !º !¡ !™ !£ 1 2 3 4 5 1 COUNTER RESET button (p.11, 33, 61) 6 DATA CODE button (p.18) 2 TIME CODE WRITE button (p.66) 7 ZERO MEM button (p.33, 61) 3 INDEX MARK button (p.65) 4 DATE SEARCH button (p.65) 8 Transmitter Point toward the remote sensor to control the camcorder after turning on the camcorder. 5 Tape transport buttons (p.
Identifying the parts Note on battery life The batteries for the Remote Commander last about 6 months under normal operation. When the batteries become weak or dead, the Remote Commander does not work. To avoid damage from possible battery leakage Remove the batteries when you will not use the Remote Commander for a long time. To use the Remote Commander Make sure that the COMMANDER is set to ON in the menu system on the camcorder.
Identifying the parts Attaching the shoulder strap Attach the supplied shoulder strap to the hooks for the shoulder strap .
Identifying the parts Operations indicators cW 100 F3.4 3 dB LUMI. MOSAIC CINEMA T SP STBY 0:00:00:00 ZERO MEM DATE SEARCH 40min JUL. 4 1997 1 AE Shift indicator (p.56) 2 WIND indicator (p.22) 3 Manual focusing (p.44) 4 Backlight indicator (p.55) 5 White balance indicator (p.57) 6 Steady Shot indicator (p.42) 7 PROGRAM AE indicator (p.46) 8 Shutter speed indicator (p.47, 50, 52) 9 Iris indicator (p.46, 50) !¢ !∞ !§ !¶ !• !ª @º @¡ @™ @£ @¢ !∞ @∞ !§ @™ ORC SP LP JUL. 4 1 9 9 7 == STBY == AE A F1.
Warning indicators If indicators flash in the viewfinder or in the display window, check the following: ≥: you can hear the beep sound when the BEEP is set to ON. 1 2 5min REPLACE BATTERY 3 4 NO CASSETTE TAPE END 0min 5 6 7 8 CLEANING CASSETTE 9 JUL. 4 1997 1 The battery is weak or dead. Slow flashing: The battery is weak. Fast flashing: The battery is dead. 2 The tape is near the end. The flashing is slow. 3 The tape has run out. The flashing becomes rapid. 4 No tape has been inserted.
Index A, B F, G, H S Adjusting viewfinder ......... 11 AE shift ................................. 56 AFM HiFi Sound ................. 73 ANTI GROUND SHOOTING ......................... 36 Aperture ............................... 50 Aperture priority mode ..... 46 Auto focus ............................ 45 Backlight .............................. 55 Beep ................................ 11, 21 Fade-in/Fade-out ............... 25 FADER ................................. 25 Flash motion .....................
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan CCD-TR3400 3-859-084-22 (1)
