3-067-425-11 (1) Digital 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. DCR-TRV Model No. AC- Serial No. Serial No.
Welcome! Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Digital Handycam camcorder. With your Digital Handycam, you can capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Digital 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 To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. For the Customers in the U.S.A.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Main Features Taking moving or still images, and playing them back •Recording a picture (p. 21) •Recording a still image on a tape (p. 38) •Playing back a tape (p. 31) •Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s (p. 112) (DCR-TRV18 only) •Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s (p. 120) (DCR-TRV18 only) •Viewing a still image recorded on “Memory Stick” (p. 129) (DCR-TRV18 only) •Viewing a moving picture recorded on “Memory Stick” (p.
Checking supplied accessories Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder. 2 4 5 8 9 3 Getting started 1 6 7 1 Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 178) 6 Shoulder strap (1) (p. 173) 2 AC-L10A/L10B/L10C AC power adaptor (1), Power cord (1) (p. 13) 8 “Memory Stick” (1) (p. 103) DCR-TRV18 only 3 Size AA (R6) battery for Remote Commander (2) (p. 178) 4 NP-FM30 battery pack (1) (p. 12, 13) 5 A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 35, 66) 7 Lens cap (1) (p. 21) 9 USB cable (1) (p.
Table of contents Getting started Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX ............. 124 Copying still images from a tape – Photo save .................................. 127 Viewing a still picture – Memory photo playback .......... 129 Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback ............. 132 Viewing images using computer ...... 134 Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes ...........
Quick Start Guide This chapter introduces you to the basic features of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Connecting the power cord (p. 17) Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 12). Open the DC IN jack cover. Quick Start Guide AC power adaptor (supplied) Connect the plug with its v mark facing up. Inserting a cassette (p. 20) 1 Slide OPEN/ EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.
Recording a picture (p. 21) 1 Remove the lens cap. 2 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the small green button. POWE R VCR OFF(CHG) CAMERA MEMORY 4 Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. To stop recording, press START/ STOP again. 3 To open the LCD Viewfinder When the LCD panel is closed, use the viewfinder placing your eye against its eyecup. When you purchase your camcorder, the clock setting is set to off.
— Getting started — Using this manual The instructions in this manual are for the two models listed in the table below. Before you start reading this manual and operating your camcorder, check the model number by looking at the bottom of your camcorder. The DCR-TRV18 is the model used for illustration purposes. Otherwise, the model name is indicated in the illustrations. Any differences in operation are clearly indicated in the text, for example, “DCR-TRV18 only”.
Using this manual 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. Television programs, films, video tapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provision of the copyright laws.
Step 1 Preparing the power supply Installing the battery pack Install the battery pack to use your camcorder outdoors. (1) Lift up the viewfinder. (2) Slide the battery pack down until it clicks. 1 2 To remove the battery pack (1) Lift up the viewfinder. (2) Slide the battery pack out in the direction of the arrow while pressing BATT down. If you use the large capacity battery pack If you install the NP-FM70/FM90/FM91 battery pack on your camcorder, extend its viewfinder.
Step 1 Preparing the power supply Charging the battery pack (1) Open the DC IN jack cover and connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack on your camcorder with the plug’s v mark facing up. (2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor. (3) Connect the power cord to the wall outlet. (4) Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). Charging begins. The remaining battery time is indicated in minutes on the display window.
Step 1 Preparing the power supply When the battery pack is charged fully “FULL” appears in the display window. Remaining battery time indicator The remaining battery time you record with the viewfinder is displayed. The remaining battery time indicator in the display window indicates the approximate recording time with the viewfinder. Until your camcorder calculates the actual remaining battery time “– – – min” appears in the display window.
Step 1 Preparing the power supply Recording time DCR-TRV15 NP-FM30 (supplied) Recording with the viewfinder Continuous* Typical** 125 65 Recording with the LCD screen Continuous* Typical** 90 45 NP-FM50 200 110 150 75 NP-FM70 415 225 310 165 NP-FM90 630 345 475 255 NP-FM91 725 395 550 290 Getting started Battery pack DCR-TRV18 Battery pack NP-FM30 (supplied) Recording with the viewfinder Continuous* Typical** 120 60 Recording with the LCD screen Continuous* Typical** 80 40 NP-FM
Step 1 Preparing the power supply Playing time DCR-TRV15 Playing time on LCD screen 100 Playing time with LCD closed 135 NP-FM50 160 220 NP-FM70 335 450 NP-FM90 505 685 NP-FM91 585 785 Playing time on LCD screen 85 Playing time with LCD closed 130 NP-FM50 140 210 NP-FM70 295 430 NP-FM90 450 655 NP-FM91 520 755 Battery pack NP-FM30 (supplied) DCR-TRV18 Battery pack NP-FM30 (supplied) Approximate minutes when you use a fully charged battery Approximate minutes when playing back a
Step 1 Preparing the power supply Connecting to a wall outlet When you use your camcorder for a long time, we recommend that you power it from a wall outlet using the AC power adaptor. 1 Getting started (1) Open the DC IN jack cover, pulling the cover out a little and rotating it. Connect the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder to the DC IN jack on your camcorder with the plug’s v mark facing up. (2) Connect the power cord to the AC power adaptor. (3) Connect the power cord to a wall outlet.
Step 2 Setting the date and time Set the date and time settings when you use your camcorder for the first time. “CLOCK SET” will be displayed each time that you set the POWER switch to CAMERA/ MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) unless you set the date and time settings. If you do not use your camcorder for about four months, the date and time settings may be released (bars may appear) because the built-in rechargeable battery in your camcorder will have been discharged (p. 166).
Step 2 Setting the date and time If you do not set the date and time “– –:– –:– –” is recorded on the data code of the tape and the “Memory Stick” (DCRTRV18only). Getting started Note on the time indicator The internal clock of your camcorder operates on a 12-hour cycle. •12:00 AM stands for midnight. •12:00 PM stands for noon.
Step 3 Inserting a cassette (1) Install the power source. (2) Slide OPEN/ EJECT in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. The cassette compartment automatically lifts up and opens. (3) Push the middle portion of the back of the cassette to insert. Insert the cassette in a straight line deeply into the cassette compartment with the window facing out. mark on the cassette (4) Close the cassette compartment by pressing the compartment. The cassette compartment automatically goes down.
— Recording – Basics — Recording a picture Your camcorder automatically focuses for you. 1 Recording – Basics (1) Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on its sides and attatch the lens cap to the grip strap. (2) Install the power source and insert a cassette. See “Step 1” to “Step 3” for more information (p. 12 to p. 20). (3) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA while pressing the small green button. Your camcorder is set to the standby mode. (4) To open the LCD panel, press OPEN.
Recording a picture Note on the LOCK switch (DCR-TRV18 only) When you slide the LOCK switch to the right, the POWER switch can no longer be set to MEMORY accidentally. LOCK switch is set to the left before your camcorder leaves the factory. To enable smooth transition Transition between the last scene you recorded and the next scene is smooth as long as you do not eject the cassette even if you turn off your camcorder.
Recording a picture When you use the LCD screen outdoors in direct sunlight The LCD screen may be difficult to see. If this happens, we recommend that you use the viewfinder. During recording in the mirror mode ZERO SET MEMORY on the Remote Commander does not work. Indicators in the mirror mode The STBY indicator appears as Xz and REC as z. Some of the other indicators appear mirror-reversed and others are not displayed.
Recording a picture Adjusting the viewfinder If you record pictures with the LCD panel closed, check the picture with the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight so that the indicators in the viewfinder come into sharp focus. Lift up the viewfinder and move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever. Viewfinder backlight You can change the brightness of the backlight. Select VF B.L. in the menu settings. (p. 98) Using the zoom feature Move the power zoom lever a little for a slower zoom.
Recording a picture To use zoom greater than 10× Zoom greater than 10× is performed digitally. To activate digital zoom, select the digital power in D ZOOM in the menu settings (p. 97). The digital zoom function is set to OFF as a default settings. (p. 97) T The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming zone. The digital zooming zone appears when you select the digital power in the menu settings (p. 97).
Recording a picture Remaining battery time indicator The remaining battery time indicator roughly indicates the recording time. The indicator may not be correct, depending on the conditions in which you are recording. When you close the LCD panel and open it again, it takes about one minute for the correct remaining battery time in minutes to be displayed.
Recording a picture Shooting in the dark – NightShot/Super NightShot The NightShot function enables you to shoot a subject in a dark place. For example, you can satisfactorily record the environment of nocturnal animals for observation when you use this function. NIGHTSHOT OFF ON Recording – Basics In CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) mode, slide NIGHTSHOT to ON. and “NIGHTSHOT” indicators flash on the screen. To cancel the NightShot function, slide NIGHTSHOT to OFF.
Recording a picture While using the Super NightShot function The shutter speed is automatically adjusted depending on the brightness. At that time, the moving picture may be slow down. While using the Super NightShot function, you cannot use the following functions: – Exposure – PROGRAM AE – Fader – Digital effect – White balance While in MEMORY mode (DCR-TRV18 only) You cannot use the Super NightShot function. NightShot Light NightShot Light rays are infrared and so are invisible.
Recording a picture To stop the countdown Press START/STOP. To restart the countdown, press START/STOP again. To record still images using the self-timer Press PHOTO in step 6. (p. 39) Set SELFTIMER to OFF in the menu settings in the standby mode. Note The self-timer recording mode is automatically cancelled when: – Self-timer recording is finished. – The POWER switch is set to OFF (CHG) or VCR.
Checking the recording – END SEARCH / EDITSEARCH / Rec Review You can use these buttons to check the recorded picture or shoot so that the transition between the last recorded scene and the next scene you record is smooth. EDITSEARCH END SEARCH END SEARCH You can go to the end of the recorded section after you record. Press END SEARCH in the standby mode. The last five seconds of the recorded section are played back and your camcorder returns to the standby mode.
— Playback – Basics — Playing back a tape You can monitor the playback picture on the screen. If you close the LCD panel, you can monitor the playback picture in the viewfinder. You can control playback using the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder. Install the power source and insert the recorded tape. Set the POWER switch to VCR while pressing the small green button. To open the LCD panel, press OPEN. Press m to rewind the tape. Press N to start playback.
Playing back a tape To display the screen indicators – Display function Press DISPLAY on your camcorder or the Remote Commander supplied with your camcorder. The indicators appear on the LCD screen. To make the indicators disappear, press DISPLAY again. DATA CODE DISPLAY DISPLAY Using the data code function Your camcorder automatically records not only images on the tape but also the recording data (date/time or various settings when recorded) (Data code). Use the Remote Commander for this operation.
Playing back a tape Recording data Recording data is your camcorder’s information when you have recorded. In the recording mode, the recording data will not be displayed. When you use the data code function, bars (-- -- --) appear if: •A blank portion of the tape is being played back. •The tape is unreadable due to tape damage or noise. •The tape was recorded by a camcorder without the date and time set.
Playing back a tape To view the picture frame-by-frame Press C on the Remote Commander in the playback pause mode. For frame-by-frame playback in the reverse direction, press c. To resume normal playback, press N. To search the last scene recorded (END SEARCH) Press END SEARCH in the stop mode. The last five seconds of the recorded portion plays back and stops. In the various playback modes •Sound is muted. •The previous picture may remain as a mosaic image during playback.
Connect your camcorder to your TV with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder to watch the playback picture on the TV screen. You can operate the video control buttons in the same way as when you monitor playback pictures on the screen. When monitoring the playback picture on the TV screen, we recommend that you power your camcorder from a wall outlet using the AC power adaptor (p. 17). Refer to the operating instructions of your TV. Playback – Basics Open the jack cover.
Viewing the recording on TV Using the AV cordless IR receiver Once you connect the AV cordless IR receiver (optional) to your TV or VCR, you can easily view the picture on your TV. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the AV cordless IR receiver. SUPER LASER LINK Super laser link emitter Before operation Attach the power supply such as the AC power adaptor to your camcorder, and insert the recorded tape.
Viewing the recording on TV If you turn the power off The super laser link function turns off automatically. Playback – Basics If you use a Sony TV •You can turn on the TV automatically when you press SUPER LASER LINK. To do so, make sure you: – Turn the TV’s main switch on. – Set AUTO TV ON to ON in the menu settings. – Point the super laser link emitter at the TV’s remote sensor. •You can switch the video input of the TV automatically to the one which the AV cordless IR receiver is connected.
— Advanced Recording Operations — Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording You can record a still picture like a photograph. This mode is useful when you want to print a picture using a video printer (optional). You can record about 510 pictures in the SP mode and about 765 pictures in the LP mode on a 60-minute tape. Besides the operation described here, your camcorder can record still pictures on “Memory Stick”s (p. 112) (DCR-TRV18only).
Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording Self-timer recording You can record still images on tapes with the self-timer. You can also use the Remote Commander for this operation. In the standby mode, press MENU to display the menu settings. , then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select SELFTIMER, then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. Press MENU to make the menu settings disappear.
Recording a still image on a tape – Tape Photo recording Printing the still picture You can print a still picture by using the video printer (optional). Connect the video printer using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Connect it to the AUDIO/VIDEO jack and connect the yellow plug of the cable to the video input of the video printer. Refer to the operating instructions of the video printer as well.
Advanced Recording Operations 41
You can record a 16:9 wide picture to watch on the 16:9 wide-screen TV (16:9WIDE). Black bands appear on the screen during recording in 16:9WIDE mode [a]. The picture during a playback on a normal TV [b] or on a wide-screen TV [c] is compressed in the widthwise direction. If you set the screen mode of the wide-screen TV to the full mode, you can watch pictures of normal images [d]. In the standby mode, set 16:9WIDE to ON in in the menu settings (p. 97).
Using the fader function You can fade in or out to give your recording a professional appearance. [a] STBY REC FADER Advanced Recording Operations M. FADER (mosaic) BOUNCE* OVERLAP* WIPE* DOT* [b] STBY REC MONOTONE When fading in, the picture gradually changes from black-and-white to color. When fading out, the picture gradually changes from color to black-and-white.
Using the fader function (1) When fading in [a] In the standby mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. When fading out [b] In the recording mode, press FADER until the desired fader indicator flashes. The indicator changes as follows: FADER t M.FADER t BOUNCE t MONOTONE t OVERLAP t WIPE t DOT t no indicator The last selected fader mode is indicated first of all. (2) Press START/STOP. The fader indicator stops flashing.
Using special effects – Picture effect You can digitally process images to obtain special effects like those in films or on TV. NEG. ART [a] : SEPIA : B&W : SOLARIZE [b] : SLIM [c] : STRETCH [d] : PASTEL [e] : [a] [b] [c] [d] [e] [f] (1) In CAMERA mode, select P EFFECT in in the menu settings. (p. 97). (2) Select the desired picture effect mode in the menu settings.
Using special effects – Digital effect You can add special effects to recorded pictures using the various digital functions. The sound is recorded normally. STILL You can record a still picture so that it is superimposed on a moving picture. FLASH (FLASH MOTION) You can record still pictures successively at constant intervals. LUMI. (LUMINANCEKEY) You can swap a brighter area in a still picture with a moving picture. TRAIL You can record the picture so that an incidental image like a trail is left.
Using special effects – Digital effect (1) In CAMERA mode, select D EFFECT in in the menu settings (p. 97). (2) Select the desired digital effect mode in the menu settings, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The bars appear, in the STILL and LUMI. modes. The still image is stored in memory. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the effect, then press the dial. Items to be adjusted The rate of the still picture you want to superimpose on the moving picture FLASH The interval of flash motion LUMI.
Using special effects – Digital effect Notes •The following functions do not work during digital effect: – Fader – Low lux mode of PROGRAM AE (The low lux indicator flashes.) – Tape photo recording – Super NightShot •The PROGRAM AE function does not work in the slow shutter mode. •The following functions do not work in the old movie mode: – Wide mode – Picture effect – PROGRAM AE When you turn the power off The digital effect will be automatically canceled.
Using the PROGRAM AE function You can select PROGRAM AE (Auto Exposure) mode to suit your specific shooting requirements. Spotlight This mode prevents people’s faces, for example, from appearing excessively white when shooting subjects lit by strong light in the theater. Soft portrait This mode brings out the subject while creating a soft background for subjects such as people or flowers.
Using the PROGRAM AE function (1) Press MENU to display menu settings in CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) mode. , then press the dial (p. 97). (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select PROGRAM AE, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired mode.
Using the PROGRAM AE function If you are recording under a discharge tube such as a fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp or mercury lamp Flickering or changes in color may occur in the following modes. If this happens, turn the PROGRAM AE function off.
Adjusting the exposure manually You can manually adjust and set the exposure. Adjust the exposure manually in the following cases: – The subject is backlit – Bright subject and dark background – To record dark pictures (e.g. night scenes) faithfully (1) In CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) mode, press EXPOSURE. The exposure indicator appears. (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to adjust the brightness. 1 2 To return to the automatic exposure mode Press EXPOSURE again.
Focusing manually You can gain better results by manually adjusting the focus in the following cases: •The autofocus mode is not effective when shooting – subjects through glass coated with water droplets – horizontal stripes – subjects with little contrast with backgrounds such as walls and sky •When you want to change the focus from a subject in the foreground to a subject in the background •Shooting a stationary subject when using a tripod Advanced Recording Operations (1) In CAMERA or MEMORY (DCR-TRV1
Interval recording You can make a time-lapse recording by setting the camcorder to automatically record and standby sequentially. You can achieve an excellent recording for flowering, emergence, etc., with this function. [a] Recording time [b]Waiting time (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) 54 Press MENU to display the menu in standby mode. , then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select INT. REC, then press the dial.
Interval recording (6) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ON, then press the dial. (7) Press MENU to erase the menu display. The interval recording indicator flashes. (8) Press START/STOP to start interval recording. The interval recording indicator lights up. 8 7 CAMERA SET SELFTIMER D ZOOM 16 : 9W I DE STEADYSHOT N.S. LIGHT FRAME REC I NT. REC ON RETURN I NTERVAL [MENU] : END Advanced Recording Operations 6 MENU To cancel the interval recording •Set INT. REC to OFF in the menu settings.
Frame by frame recording – Cut recording You can make a recording with a stop-motion animated effect using cut recording.
— Advanced Playback Operations — Playing back a tape with picture effects During playback, you can process a scene using the picture effect functions: NEG. ART, SEPIA, B&W and SOLARIZE. (1) In the playback or playback pause mode, select P EFFECT in settings (p. 97). (2) Select the desired mode by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. For details of each picture effect function, see page 45. in the menu 1 OFF NEG.
Playing back a tape with digital effects During playback, you can process a scene using the digital effect functions: STILL, FLASH, LUMI. and TRAIL. (1) In the playback or playback pause mode, select D EFFECT in in the menu settings (p. 97). (2) Select the desired digital effect mode in the menu settings, then press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The digital effect indicator lights up and the bars appear. In the STILL or LUMI.
Enlarging images recorded on tapes – Tape PB ZOOM You can enlarge still and moving playback pictures. You can also dub the enlarged pictures to tapes or copy to “Memory Stick”s (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 121). You can also enlarge still play back images recorded on “Memory Stick” (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 140). Advanced Playback Operations (1) In the playback or playback pause mode, press PB ZOOM on your camcorder. The image is enlarged, and R r T t appears on the screen.
Quickly locating a scene using the zero set memory function Your camcorder goes forward or backward to automatically stop at a desired scene having a tape counter value of “0:00:00”. You can do this with the Remote Commander. (1) In the playback mode, press DISPLAY. (2) Press ZERO SET MEMORY at the point you want to locate later. The tape counter shows “0:00:00” and the ZERO SET MEMORY indicator flashes. (3) Press x when you want to stop playback.
Searching the boundaries of recorded tape by title – Title search If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can search for the boundaries of recorded tape by title. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Before operation Set CM SEARCH in to ON in the menu settings (p. 100). (The default setting is ON.) (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the TITLE SEARCH indicator appears.
Searching a recording by date – Date search You can automatically search for the point where the recording date changes and start playback from that point. Use a tape with cassette memory for convenience. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Use this function to check where recording dates change or to edit the tape at each recording date. Searching for the date by using cassette memory Before operation •You can use this function only when playing back a tape with cassette memory (p. 158).
Searching a recording by date – Date search Note If one day’s recording is less than two minutes, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes. In the mark •The bar in the •The mark in the mark indicates the present point on the tape. indicates the actual point you are trying to search. If a tape has a blank portion between recorded portions The date search function may not work correctly.
Searching for a photo – Photo search/Photo scan You can search for a still picture you have recorded on a tape (photo search). You can also search for still pictures one after another and display each picture for five seconds automatically regardless of cassette memory (photo scan). Use the Remote Commander for these operations. Use this function to check or edit still pictures.
Searching for a photo – Photo search/Photo scan Searching for a photo without using cassette memory (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Set CM SEARCH in to OFF in the menu settings (p. 100). (3) Press SEARCH MODE on the Remote Commander repeatedly, until the PHOTO SEARCH indicator appears. The indicator changes as follows: DATE SEARCH t PHOTO SEARCH t PHOTO SCAN t no indicator To stop searching Press x. Scanning photo (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR.
— Editing — Dubbing a tape Using the A/V connecting cable You can dub or edit on the VCR connected to your camcorder using your camcorder as a player. Connect your camcorder to the VCR using the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder. Before operation •Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The defalt setting is LCD.
Dubbing a tape If your VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) to obtain high-quality pictures. With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (optional) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the VCR. This connection produces higher quality DV format pictures. Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Editing Simply connect the i.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing You can duplicate selected scenes (programs) for editing onto a tape without operating the VCR. Scenes can be selected by frame. You can set up to 20 programs. Switch the order Before operating the Digital program editing function Step 1 Connecting the VCR (p. 68). Step 2 Setting the VCR for operation (p. 69, 73). Step 3 Adjusting the synchronicity of the VCR (p. 73). When you dub using the same VCR again, you can skip steps 2 and 3.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Step 2: Setting the VCR to operate with the A/V connecting cable To edit using the VCR, send the control signal by infrared rays to the remote sensor on the VCR. When you connect using an A/V connecting cable, follow the procedure below, steps (1) to (4), to send the control signal correctly. (1) Set the IR SETUP code 1 POWER Editing 1 Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing About the IR SETUP code The IR SETUP code is stored in the memory of your camcorder. Be sure to set the correct code depending on your VCR. The default setting is Code number 3. Brand IR SETUP code Brand IR SETUP code Sony 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Multitech 23, 80, 32 Admiral (M. Wards) 89 NEC 21, 33, 35 Aiwa 80 Olympic 77, 78 Audio Dynamic 21, 35 Panasonic 16, 17, 78, 77, 96 Bell&Howell (M.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (2) Setting the modes to cancel recording pause on the VCR 1 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select PAUSEMODE, then press the dial. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the mode to cancel recording pause on the VCR, then press the dial.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (4) Confirming VCR operation 1 Insert a recordable tape into the VCR, then set to recording pause. 2 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select IR TEST, then press the dial. 3 Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. If the VCR starts recording, the setting is correct. When finished, the indicator changes to COMPLETE.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Step 2: Setting the VCR to operate with the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) When you connect using an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (optional), follow the procedure below. 1 POWER Editing (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder . (2) Turn the power of the connected VCR on, then set the input selector to DV input. When you connect a digital video camera recorder, set its power switch to VCR/VTR. (3) Press MENU to display the menu.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select ADJ TEST, then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. IN and OUT are recorded on an image for 5 times each to calculate the numerical values for adjusting the synchronicity. The EXECUTING indicator flashes on the screen. When finished, the indicator changes to COMPLETE. (5) Rewind the tape in the VCR, then start slow playback.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Notes •When you complete step 3, the image to adjust the syncronicity is recorded for about 50 seconds. •If you start recording from the very beginning of the tape, the first few seconds of the tape may not record properly. Be sure to allow about 10 seconds of lead before starting the recording.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Operation 1: Making the program (1) Insert the tape for playback into your camcorder, and insert a tape for recording into the VCR. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select VIDEO EDIT, then press the dial. (5) Search for the beginning of the first scene you want to insert using the video operation buttons, then pause playback.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Erasing the program you have set Erase OUT first and then IN from the last set program. (1) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select UNDO, then press the dial. (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select EXECUTE, then press the dial. The last set program mark flashes, then the setting is canceled. To cancel erasing Select RETURN in step 2. Erasing all programs (1) Select VIDEO EDIT in the menu settings.
Dubbing only desired scenes – Digital program editing Operation 2: Performing Digital program editing (Dubbing a tape) Make sure that your camcorder and VCR are connected, and that the VCR is set to recording pause. This procedure is not necessary when you use an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). When you use a digital video camera recorder, set its power switch to VCR/VTR. (1) Select VIDEO EDIT. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select START, then press the dial.
Using with analog video unit and personal computer – Signal convert function You can capture images and sound from an analog video unit connected to your computer which has the i.LINK (DV) jack to your camcorder. Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) (1) (2) (3) (4) Editing Set the POWER switch to VCR. to ON in the menu settings (p. 98). Set A/V t DV OUT in Start playback on the analog video unit. Start capturing procedures on your computer.
Recording video or TV programs Using the A/V connecting cable You can record a tape from another VCR or a TV program from a TV that has video/ audio outputs. Use your camcorder as a recorder. Before operation Set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu settings. (The default setting is LCD.) (1) Insert a blank tape (or a tape you want to record over) into your camcorder. If you are recording a tape from the VCR, insert a recorded tape into the VCR. (2) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder.
Recording video or TV programs If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) to obtain high-quality pictures. With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (optional) to the S (S1) video jacks of both your camcorder and the VCR. This connection produces higher quality DV format pictures. Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) Simply connect the i.
Recording video or TV programs You can connect one VCR only using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) When you dub a picture in digital form The color of the display may be uneven. However, this does not affect the dubbed picture. If you record playback pause picture with the DV IN/OUT jack The recorded picture becomes rough. And when you play back the picture using your camcorder, the picture may jitter. Before recording Make sure if the DV IN indicator appears on the screen.
Inserting a scene from a VCR – Insert editing You can insert a new scene from a VCR onto your originally recorded tape by specifying the insert start and end points. Use the Remote Commander for this operation. Connections are the same as on page 80 or 81. Insert a cassette containing the desired scene to insert into the VCR. Editing [A]: A tape that contains the scene to be superimposed [B]: A tape before editing [C]: A tape after editing (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder.
Inserting a scene from a VCR – Insert editing To change the insert end point Press ZERO SET MEMORY again after step 5 to erase the ZERO SET MEMORY indicator and begin from step 3. Note The picture and sound recorded on the portion between the insert start and end points will be erased when you insert the new scene. If you insert scenes on the tape recorded with other camcorder (including other DCR-TRV15/TRV18) The picture and sound may be distorted.
Audio dubbing You can record an audio sound to add to the original sound on a tape by connecting audio equipment or a microphone. If you connect the audio equipment, you can add sound to your recorded tape by specifying starting and ending points. The original sound will not be erased. Select one of the following connections to add an audio sound.
Audio dubbing Dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack Audio equipment LINE OUT L R AUDIO/ VIDEO : Signal flow AUDIO L White AUDIO R Red Do not connect the video (yellow) plug. Dubbing with the built-in microphone No connection is necessary. Note When dubbing with the AUDIO/VIDEO jack or the built-in microphone, pictures are not output through S VIDEO jack or the AUDIO/VIDEO jack. Check the recorded picture on the screen. You can check the recorded sound by using headphones.
Audio dubbing Adding an audio sound on a recorded tape (1) Insert the recorded tape into your camcorder. (2) Set the POWER switch to VCR on your camcorder. (3) Locate the recording start point by pressing N on the Remote Commander. Then press X at the point where you want to start recording to set your camcorder to the playback pause mode. (4) Press AUDIO DUB. The green X indicator appears on the screen. (5) Press X on your camcorder and start playing back the audio you want to record at the same time.
Audio dubbing Notes • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the 16-bit mode (32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz) (p. 101). • New sound cannot be recorded on a tape already recorded in the LP mode (p. 101). • You cannot add audio with the DV IN/OUT jack. • You cannot add audio on the blank portion of the tape. If an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (optional) is connected to your camcorder You cannot add a sound to a recorded tape.
Superimposing a title If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can superimpose the title. When you play back the tape, the title is displayed for five seconds from the point where you superimposed it. You can select one of eight preset titles and two custom titles (p. 92). You can also select the color, size and position of titles. VACATION Editing (1) In CAMERA or VCR mode, press MENU to display the menu. in the menu settings, then press (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the dial.
Superimposing a title If you set the write-protect tab to lock You cannot superimpose or erase the title. Slide the write-protect tab to release the write protection. To use the custom title If you want to use the custom title, select in step 4. If the tape has a blank portion You cannot superimpose a title on the portion. If the tape has a blank portion in the middle of the recorded parts The title may not be displayed correctly.
Superimposing a title Erasing a title 1 Editing (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or VCR, and then press MENU to display the menu. in the menu setting, then press the (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select dial. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select TITLEERASE, then press the dial. Title erase display appears. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the title you want to erase, then press the dial. “ERASE OK ?” indicator appears.
Making your own titles You can make up to two titles and store them in cassette memory. Each title can have up to 20 characters. (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) Press MENU to display the menu in CAMERA or VCR mode. , then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select TITLE, then press the dial. , then press the dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the first line (CUSTOM1 SET) or second line (CUSTOM2 SET), then press the dial.
Making your own titles To change a title you have stored In step 5, select CUSTOM1 SET or CUSTOM2 SET, depending on which title you want to change, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [C], then press the dial to delete the title. The last character is erased. Enter the new title as desired. If you take five minutes or longer to enter characters in the standby mode while a cassette is in your camcorder The power automatically goes off.
Labeling a cassette If you use a tape with cassette memory, you can label a cassette. The label can consist of up to 10 characters and is stored in cassette memory. When you insert the labelled cassette and turn the power on, the label is displayed for about five seconds.
Labeling a cassette To erase a character In step 6 turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select [C], then press the dial. The last character is erased. To change the label you have made Insert the cassette to change the label, and operate in the same way to make a new label. If you set the write-protect tab of the tape to lock You cannot label the tape. Slide the write-protect tab to release the write protection. If the mark appears in step 5 The cassette memory is full.
— Customizing Your Camcorder — Changing the menu settings To change the mode settings in the menu settings, select the menu items with the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. The factory settings can partially changed. First, select the icon, then the menu item and then the mode. (1) In CAMERA, MEMORY (DCR-TRV18 only) or VCR mode, press MENU. (2) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired icon, then press the dial to set. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select the desired item, then press the dial to set.
Changing the menu settings To make the menu display disappear Press MENU. Menu items are displayed as the following icons: MANUAL SET CAMERA SET VCR SET LCD/VF SET MEMORY SET (DCR-TRV18 only) PRINT SET (DCR-TRV18 only) CM SET TAPE SET SETUP MENU OTHERS z is the default setting. Menu items differ depending on the position of the POWER switch. The screen shows only the items you can operate at the moment. Icon/item Mode Meaning POWER switch PROGRAM AE — To suit your specific shooting requirement (p.
Changing the menu settings Icon/item FRAME REC INT. REC Mode Meaning POWER switch z OFF To deactivate Cut recording function. CAMERA ON To activate Cut recording function (p. 56). ON To activate Interval recording function (p. 54). z OFF SET HiFi SOUND AUDIO MIX z STEREO To deactivate Interval recording function. To set waiting time and recording time for Interval recording function (p. 54). To play back a stereo tape or dual sound track tape with main and sub sound (p. 159).
Changing the menu settings Icon/item Mode Meaning POWER switch z SINGLE Not to record continuously. MEMORY * STILL SET PIC MODE MULTI SCRN QUALITY z FINE STANDARD To record nine still picutures continuously (p. 114). To record still pictures in the fine image quality mode (p. 106). VCR MEMORY To record still pictures in the standard image quality mode (p. 106). MOVIE SET IMAGE SIZE PRINT MARK To record moving pictures in 320 × 240 size (p.
Changing the menu settings Icon/item * FORMAT PHOTO SAVE * 9PIC PRINT DATE/TIME Mode Meaning POWER switch z RETURN To cancel formatting. MEMORY OK To format an inserted “Memory Stick.” 1. Select FORMAT with the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. 2. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select OK, then press the dial. 3. After “EXECUTE” appears, press the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial. “FORMATTING” flashes during formatting. “COMPLETE” appears when formatting is finished.
Changing the menu settings Icon/item REC MODE Mode Meaning z SP To record in the SP (Standard Play) mode. LP AUDIO MODE z 12BIT 16BIT qREMAIN AUTO TV ON ON To always display the remaining tape indicator. — To set the date or time (p. 18). CAMERA MEMORY — VCR CAMERA MEMORY z OFF z VIDEO1 VIDEO2 VIDEO3 z NORMAL 2× DEMO MODE To record in the 16-bit mode (the one stereo sound with high quality).
Changing the menu settings Icon/item DATA CODE WORLD TIME Mode Meaning POWER switch z DATE/CAM To display date, time and various settings during playback (p. 32, 130). VCR MEMORY DATE To display date and time during playback (p. 32, 130, 132). — To set the clock to the local time. Turn the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial to set a time difference. The clock changes by the time difference you set here. If you set the time difference to 0, the clock returns to the originally set time.
— “Memory Stick” Operations — Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction – DCR-TRV18 only You can record and play back images on a “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder. You can easily play back, record or delete images. You can exchange image data with other equipment such as your computer etc. using the USB cable for “Memory Stick” supplied with your camcorder. On file format Still image (JPEG) Your camcorder compresses image data in JPEG format (extension .jpg).
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction “Memory Stick”s formatted by a computer “Memory Stick”s formatted by Windows OS or Macintosh computers do not have a guaranteed compatibility with this camcorder. Notes on image data compatibility • Image data files recorded on “Memory Stick”s by your camcorder conform with the Design rule for Camera File system universal standard established by the JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Inserting a “Memory Stick” Lift up the viewfinder, and insert a “Memory Stick” in the “Memory Stick” slot as far as it can go with the v mark facing up as illustrated. Slide > MEMORY EJECT in the direction of the arrow. “Memory Stick” Operations Ejecting a “Memory Stick” If you extend the viewfinder to the end You cannot insert or eject a “Memory Stick.
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Selecting still image quality mode You can select image quality mode in still image recording. The default setting is FINE. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. , then press the dial. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select STILL SET, then press the dial.
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Image quality settings Setting Meaning FINE (FINE) Use this mode when you want to record high quality images. The image is compressed to about 1/6. STANDARD (STD) This is the standard image quality. The image is compressed to about 1/10. Note In some cases, changing the image quality mode may not affect the image quality, depending on the types of images you are shooting.
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Selecting the image size You can select 320 × 240 or 160 × 112 of the moving picture size. The default setting is 320 × 240. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. , then press the dial. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select MOVIE SET (moving picture), then press the dial.
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction 3 1 PO W LOCK ER MEMOR Y S E T ST I L L SET MO V I E S E T P R I N T MA R K P RO T E C T S L I D E S HOW DE L E T E A L L F ORMA T RE T URN PLAYER OFF(CHG) CAMERA MEMORY [ ME N U ] : E N D 4 MEMOR Y S E T MO V I E S E T I MA G E S I Z E 3 2 0 2 4 0 R EMA I N RE T URN R EMA I N 42 sec 5 2 MENU MEMOR Y S E T 320 MO V I E S E T I MA G E S I Z E 3 2 0 2 4 0 R EMA I N 1 6 0 1 1 2 RE T URN “Memory Stick” Operations [ ME N U ] : E N D R EMA I N 42 sec [ ME N U ]
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Moving picture size settings Setting Meaning Indicator Recording 320 × 240 160 × 112 Playback Records 320 × 240 moving pictures. 320 320 160 160 Records 160 × 112 moving pictures.
Using a “Memory Stick” – introduction Approximate time of moving pictures you can record on a “Memory Stick” The time of moving pictures you can record varies depending on which image size you select and the complexity of the subject. 4MB type (supplied): Picture size 160 × 112 320 × 240 Recording time 2 min. 40 sec. 40 sec. Picture size 160 × 112 320 × 240 Recording time 5 min. 20 sec. 1 min. 20 sec. Picture size 160 × 112 320 × 240 Recording time 10 min. 40 sec. 2 min. 40 sec.
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording – DCR-TRV18 only You can record still pictures on “Memory Stick”s. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until the desired still picture appears. The green z mark stops flashing, then lights up.
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording When the POWER switch is set to MEMORY The following functions do not work: – Wide TV mode – Digital zoom – SteadyShot function – Super NightShot – Fader – Picture effect – Digital effect – Title – Low lux mode (The indicator flashes.) – Sports lesson mode (The indicator flashes.) While you are recording a still image You can neither turn off the power nor press PHOTO.
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording Recording images continuously You can record still pictures continuously. Select one of the two modes described below before recording. Multi screen mode (Recording image size is 640 × 480) You can record nine still pictures continuously on a single page. While pressing down PHOTO, your camcorder continuously record maximum number of still pictures. When you stop pressing, the recording stops. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY.
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording 1 PO WE R LOCK 2 PLAYER OFF(CHG) CAMERA MEMORY MEMORY SET STILL SET MOVIE SET PR I NT MARK PROTECT SL I DE SHOW DELETE ALL FORMAT RETURN 3 MENU [MENU] : END MEMORY SET STILL SET MOVIE SET PR I NT MARK PROTECT SL I DE SHOW DELETE ALL FORMAT RETURN MEMORY SET STILL SET PIC MODE QUALITY RETURN [MENU] : END [MENU] : END 5 MEMORY SET STILL SET PIC MODEL QUALITY RETURN SINGLE SINGLE MULTI SCRN [MENU] : END “Memory Stick” Operati
Recording still images on “Memory Stick”s – Memory photo recording Self-timer memory photo recording You can record still images on “Memory Stick”s with the self-timer. You can use the Remote Commander for this operation. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU to display the menu settings in the standby mode. , then press the dial.
Recording an image from a tape as a still image – DCR-TRV18 only Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a still image on a “Memory Stick”. Before operation •Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder. •Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Press N. The picture recorded on the tape is played back. (3) Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until the picture from the tape freezes. “CAPTURE” appears on the screen.
Recording an image from a tape as a still image Sound recorded on a tape You cannot record the audio from a tape. Titles have already recorded on tapes You cannot record the titles on “Memory Stick”s. The title does not appear while you are recording a still picture with PHOTO. When you press PHOTO on the Remote Commander Your camcorder immediately records the image that is on the screen when you press the button.
Recording an image from a tape as a still image If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) to obtain high-quality pictures. With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (optional) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the TV or VCR. This connection produces higher quality DV format pictures. Using the i.
Recording moving pictures on “Memory Stick”s – MPEG movie recording – DCR-TRV18 only You can record moving pictures with sound on “Memory Stick”s. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press START/STOP. Your camcorder starts recording. The camera recording lamp located on the front of your camcorder lights up.
Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture – DCR-TRV18 only Your camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a tape and record it as a moving picture on a “Memory Stick.” Your camcorder can also take in moving picture data through the input connector and record it as a moving picture on a “Memory Stick.” Before operation •Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder. •Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Press N.
Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture Notes •Sound recorded in 48 kHz is converted to one in 32 kHz when recording images from a tape to “Memory Stick”s. •Sound recorded in stereo is converted to monaural sound when recording from tapes. When the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike the unit. As well do not turn the power off , eject a “Memory Stick” or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, the image data breakdown may occur.
Recording a picture from a tape as a moving picture If your TV or VCR has an S video jack Connect using an S video cable (optional) to obtain high-quality pictures. With this connection, you do not need to connect the yellow (video) plug of the A/V connecting cable. Connect an S video cable (optional) to the S video jacks of both your camcorder and the TV or VCR. This connection produces higher quality DV format pictures. Using the i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) DV IN/OUT is marked on this side.
Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX – DCR-TRV18 only You can superimpose a still picture you have recorded on a “Memory Stick” on the top of the moving picture you are recording. M. CHROM (Memory chromakey) You can swap a blue area of a still picture such as an illustration or a frame with a moving picture. M. LUMI (Memory luminancekey) You can swap a brighter area of a still picture such as a handwritten illustration or title with a moving picture.
Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX Before operation •Insert a tape for recording into your camcorder. •Insert a recorded “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. 1 POWE R VCR OFF(CHG) CAMERA “Memory Stick” Operations (1) Set the POWER switch to CAMERA or MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MEMORY MIX in the standby mode.
Superimposing a still picture in a “Memory Stick” on a moving picture – MEMORY MIX Items to be adjusted M. CHROM The color (blue) scheme of the area in the still picture which is to be swapped with a moving picture M. LUMI The color (bright) scheme of the area in the still picture which is to be swapped with a moving picture C. CHROM The color (blue) scheme of the area in the moving picture which is to be swapped with a still picture M.
Copying still images from a tape – Photo save – DCR-TRV18 only Using the search function, you can automatically take in only still images from tapes and record them on a “Memory Stick” in sequence. Before operation •Insert a recorded tape into your camcorder and rewind the tape. •Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) (2) (3) (4) Set the POWER switch to VCR. Press MENU to display the menu. , then press the dial.
Copying still images from a tape – Photo save To stop or end copying Press MENU. When the memory of the “Memory Stick” is full “MEMORY FULL” appears on the screen, and the copying stops. Insert another “Memory Stick” and repeat the procedure from step 2. When the access lamp is lit or flashing Do not shake or strike your camcorder. As well do not turn the power off, eject a “Memory Stick” or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, the image data breakdown may occur.
Viewing a still picture – Memory photo playback – DCR-TRV18 only You can play back still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back six images at a time by selecting the index screen. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MEMORY PLAY. The last recorded image is displayed. (3) Press MEMORY +/– to select the desired still image.
Viewing a still picture – Memory photo playback To play back recorded images on a TV screen •Connect your camcorder to the TV with the A/V connecting cable supplied with your camcorder before operation. •When operating memory photo playback on a TV or on the LCD screen, the image quality may appear to have deteriorated. This is not a malfunction. The image data is as good as ever. •Turn the audio volume of the TV down before operation, or noise (howling) may be output from the TV speakers.
Viewing a still picture – Memory photo playback Playing back six recorded images at a time (index screen) You can play back six recorded images at a time. This function is especially useful when searching for a particular image. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MEMORY INDEX to display the index screen.
Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback – DCR-TRV18 only You can play back moving pictures recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can also play back 6 images including still images in order at a time by selecting the index screen. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MEMORY PLAY. The last recorded image is displayed.
Viewing a moving picture – MPEG movie playback Screen indicators during moving picture playback Remaining battery time indicator Image size 4 0 min MO V 0 0 0 0 1 320 2 / 20 MEMOR Y P L A Y 0:1 2 Picture number/Total number of recorded pictures Memory playback indicator Protect indicator Data directory number/File number “Memory Stick” Operations 133
Viewing images using computer – DCR-TRV18 only You can view data recorded on the “Memory Stick” using your computer. On file format Data recorded on the “Memory Stick” is stored in the following formats. Make sure that applications that support these file formats are installed on your computer. •Still images: JPEG format •Moving images/audio: MPEG format ActiveMovie Player (DirectShow) must be installed (to play back moving pictures). QuickTime 3.2 or newer must be installed (to play back moving pictures).
Viewing images using computer Installing the USB driver Before connecting your camcorder to your computer, install the USB driver to the computer. The USB driver is contained together with application software for viewing images on a CD-ROM which is supplied with your camcorder. For Windows 98/98SE, Windows 2000, Windows Me users USB connector “Memory Stick” Operations (1) Turn on your computer and allow Windows to load. (2) Insert the supplied CD-ROM in the CD-ROM drive of your computer.
Viewing images using computer Viewing images For Windows 98 users (1) Turn on the power of your computer and allow Windows 98 to load. (2) Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB jack on the camcorder and the other end to the USB connector on your computer. (3) Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder, and connect the AC power adaptor to your camcorder and then to a wall outlet. (4) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. USB MODE appears on the screen of the camcorder.
Viewing images using computer Notes on using your computer “Memory Stick” •“Memory Stick” operations on your camcorder cannot be assured if the “Memory Stick” has been formatted on your computer. •Do not optimize the “Memory Stick” on a Windows machine. This will shorten the “Memory Stick” life. •Do not compress the data on the “Memory Stick.” Compressed files cannot be played back on your camcorder.
Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes – DCR-TRV18 only You can copy still images or titles recorded on “Memory Stick” and record them to a tape. Before operation •Insert a tape for recording into your camcorder. •Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to VCR. (2) Using the video control buttons, search a point where you want to record the desired still image. Set the tape to playback pause.
Copying the image recorded on “Memory Stick”s to tapes Note on the index screen You cannot record the index screen. If you press EDITSEARCH during pause mode Memory playback stops. Image data modified with computers or shot with other equipment You may not be able to copy them with your camcorder. If you press DISPLAY during recording or in recording standby mode You can see memory playback and the file name indicators in addition to the indicators pertinent to tapes, such as the time code indicator.
Enlarging still images recorded on “Memory Stick”s – Memory PB ZOOM – DCR-TRV18 only You can enlarge still images recorded on a “Memory Stick.” You can select and view the desired part from the enlarged still image. Also, you can copy the desired part of the enlarged still image to tapes or video tapes. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position.
Enlarging still images recorded on “Memory Stick”s – Memory PB ZOOM The PB ZOOM function is cancelled when the following buttons are pressed: – MENU – MEMORY PLAY – MEMORY INDEX – MEMORY +/– Pictures in the PB ZOOM mode Pictures in the PB ZOOM mode are not output through the the POWER switch is set to MEMORY. DV IN/OUT jack when Moving pictures recorded on “Memory Stick”s The PB ZOOM function does not work on moving pictures recorded on “Memory Stick”s.
Playing back images in a continuous loop – SLIDE SHOW – DCR-TRV18 only You can automatically play back images in sequence. This function is useful especially when checking recorded images or during a presentation. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. , then press the dial.
Preventing accidental erasure – Image protection – DCR-TRV18 only To prevent accidental erasure of important images, you can protect selected images. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Play back the image you want to protect. (3) Press MENU to display the menu. , then press the dial.
Deleting images – DCR-TRV18 only You can delete images stored in a “Memory Stick.” You can delete all images or selected images. Deleting selected images Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Play back the image you want to delete. (3) Press MEMORY DELETE. “DELETE?” appears on the screen. (4) Press MEMORY DELETE again. The selected image is deleted.
Deleting images Deleting all the images You can delete all the unprotected images in a “Memory Stick.” Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position. (2) Press MENU to display the menu. (3) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select , then press the dial. (4) Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to select DELETE ALL, then press the dial.
Writing a print mark – PRINT MARK – DCR-TRV18 only You can specify the recorded still image to print out. This function is useful for printing out still images later. Your camcorder conforms with the DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard for specifying the still images to print out. Before operation Insert a “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. (1) Set the POWER switch to MEMORY or VCR. Make sure that the LOCK switch is set to the left (unlock) position.
Writing a print mark – PRINT MARK To cancel writing print marks Select OFF in step 6, then press the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial. If the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick” is set to LOCK You cannot write print marks on still images. Moving pictures You cannot write print marks on moving pictures. While the file name is flashing You cannot write print marks on images.
Using the printer (optional) – DCR-TRV18 only You can use the printer (optional) on your camcorder to print images on the print paper. For details, refer to the operating instructions of the printer. There are various ways of printing still images. The following, however, describes how to print by selecting in the menu on your camcorder. Before operation •Insert a recorded “Memory Stick” into your camcorder. •Connect the printer to your camcorder as illustrated.
— Troubleshooting — Types of trouble and their solutions If you run into any problem using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. If “C:ss:ss” appears on the screen or the self-diagnosis display function has worked. See page 155. In the recording mode Symptom START/STOP does not operate. The power goes off. The SteadyShot function does not work.
Types of trouble and their solutions Symptom Cause and/or Corrective Actions The picture is recorded in incorrect or • NIGHTSHOT is set to ON. unnatural colors. c Set it to OFF. (p. 27) The picture appears too bright, and • NIGHTSHOT is set to ON in a bright place. the subject does not appear on the c Set it to OFF . (p. 27) screen. • BACK LIGHT is activated. c Deactivate it. The click of the shutter does not • BEEP is set to OFF in the menu settings. sound. c Set it to MELODY or NORMAL. (p.
Types of trouble and their solutions In the recording and playback modes Symptom The power does not turn on. The end search function does not work. The end search function does not work correctly. The battery pack is quickly discharged. The power goes off although the battery remaining indicator indicates that the battery pack has enough power to operate. The cassette cannot be removed from the holder. The % and Z indicators flash and no functions except for cassette ejection work.
Types of trouble and their solutions When operating using the “Memory Stick” – DCR-TRV18 only Symptom The “Memory Stick” does not function. Recording does not function. The image cannot be deleted. You cannot format the “Memory Stick”. Deleting all the images cannot be carried out. You cannot protect the image. You cannot write a print mark on the still image. The photo save function does not work. You cannot play back images in actual size.
Types of trouble and their solutions Others Symptom Troubleshooting Cause and/or Corrective Actions • The tape has no cassette memory. The title is not recorded. c Use a tape with cassette memory. (p. 89, 158) • The cassette memory is full. c Erase unnecessary title. (p. 91) • The tape is set to prevent accidental erasure. c Slide the write-protect tab so that red portion is not visible. (p. 20) • Nothing is recorded in that position on the tape. c Superimpose the title to the recorded position. (p.
Types of trouble and their solutions Symptom The melody or beep sounds for five seconds. No function works though the power is on. While charging the battery pack, no indicator appears or the indicator flashes in the display window. You cannot charge the battery pack. 154 Cause and/or Corrective Actions • Moisture condensation has occurred. c Remove the cassette and leave your camcorder for at least one hour to acclimatize. (p. 165) • Some troubles have occurred in your camcorder.
Self-diagnosis display Your camcorder has a self-diagnosis display function. This function displays the current condition of your camcorder as a 5-digit code (a combination of a letter and figures) in the viewfinder, on the LCD screen or in the display window. If a 5-digit code is displayed, check the following code chart. The last two digits (indicated by ss) will differ depending on the state of your camcorder.
Warning indicators and messages If indicators and messages appear on the screen, check the following: See the page in parentheses “( )” for more information. Warning indicators 100–0001 100-0001 Warning indicator as to file Slow flashing: •The file is corrupted. •The file is unreadable. •You are trying to carry out MEMORY MIX function on moving picture. Warning indicator as to “Memory Stick” formatting** Fast flashing: • “Memory Stick” is not formatted correctly (p. 100).
Warning indicators and messages Warning messages •CLOCK SET Set the date and time (p. 18). • FOR “InfoLITHIUM” BATTERY ONLY Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (p. 160). • • CLEANING CASSETTE*3) The video heads are dirty (p. 166). FULL The tape cassette memory is full.*2) 16BIT AUDIO MODE is set to 16BIT (p. 101).*2) You cannot dub new sound. • REC MODE REC MODE is set to LP (p. 101).*2) You cannot dub new sound. • TAPE There is no recorded portion on the tape.*2) You cannot dub new sound.
— Additional Information — Usable cassettes Selecting cassette types You can use the mini DV cassette only*. You cannot use any other 8 mm, Hi8, Digital8, VHS, VHSC, S-VHS, S-VHSC, Betamax, ED Betamax or DV cassette. * There are two types of mini DV cassettes: with cassette memory and without cassette memory. Tapes with cassette memory have (Cassette Memory) mark. We recommend you to use the tape with cassette memory. The IC memory is mounted on this type of cassette.
Usable cassettes Audio mode 12-bit mode: The original sound can be recorded in stereo 1, and the new sound in stereo 2 in 32 kHz. The balance between stereo 1 and stereo 2 can be adjusted by selecting AUDIO MIX in the menu settings during playback. Both sounds can be played back. 16-bit mode: A new sound cannot be recorded but the original sound can be recorded in high quality. Moreover, it can also play back sound recorded in 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz.
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack What is the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack? The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions for communicating information related to operating conditions between the battery pack and your camcorder or an AC power adaptor. The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack calculates the power consumption according to the operating conditions of your camcorder, and displays the remaining battery time in minutes.
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack Battery life •The battery life is limited. Battery capacity drops little by little as you use it more and more, and as time passes. When the available battery time is shortened considerably, a probable cause is that the battery pack has reached the end of its life. Please buy a new battery pack. •The battery life varies according to how it is stored and operating conditions and environment for each battery pack.
About i.LINK The DV jack on this unit is an i.LINK-compliant DV input/output jack. This section describes the i.LINK standard and its features. What is i.LINK? i.LINK is a digital serial interface for handling digital video, digital audio and other data in two directions between equipment having the i.LINK jack, and for controlling other equipment. i.LINK-compatible equipment can be connected by a single i.LINK cable.
About i.LINK i.LINK functions on this unit For details on how to dub when this unit is connected to other video equipment having DV jacks, see page 67, 81. This unit can also be connected to other i.LINK (DV) compatible equipment made by SONY (e.g. VAIO series personal computer) other than video equipment. Before connecting this unit to a personal computer, make sure that application software supported by this unit is already installed on the personal computer.
Using your camcorder abroad Using your camcorder abroad You can use your camcorder in any country or area with the AC power adaptor supplied with your camcorder within 100 V to 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz. When charging the battery pack, use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b]. AC-L10A/L10B/L10C [a] [b] Your camcorder is an NTSC system based camcorder.
Maintenance information and precautions Moisture condensation If your camcorder is brought directly from a cold place to a warm place, moisture may condense inside your camcorder, on the surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this condition, the tape may stick to the head drum and be damaged or your camcorder may not operate correctly. If there is moisture inside your camcorder, the beep sounds and the % indicator flashes.
Maintenance information and precautions Maintenance information Cleaning the video head To ensure normal recording and clear pictures, clean the video heads. The video head may be dirty when: • mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback picture. • playback pictures do not move. • playback pictures do not appear. • the x indicator and “ CLEANING CASSETTE” message appear one after another or the x indicator flashes on the screen.
Maintenance information and precautions Precautions Camcorder operation •Operate your camcorder on 7.2 V (battery pack) or 8.4 V (AC power adaptor). •For DC or AC operation, use the accessories recommended in this operating instructions. •If any solid object or liquid get inside the casing, unplug your camcorder and have it checked by a Sony dealer before operating it any further. •Avoid rough handling or mechanical shock. Be particularly careful of the lens.
Maintenance information and precautions •While the unit is in use, particularly during charging, keep it away from AM receivers and video equipment. AM receivers and video equipment disturb AM reception and video operation. •The unit becomes warm during use. This is not a malfunction.
Specifications Video camera recorder System Input/Output connectors S video input/output 4-pin mini DIN Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms) Audio/Video input/output AV MINI JACK, 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced, sync negative 327 mV, (at output impedance more than 47 kΩ (kilohms)) Output impedance with less than 2.2 kΩ (kilohms)/Stereo minijack (ø 3.
Specifications AC power adaptor Power requirements 100 - 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz Power consumption 23 W Output voltage DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.5 A in the operating mode Operating temperature 0 °C to 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F) Storage temperature –20 °C to +60 °C (–4 °F to +140 °F) Dimensions (approx.) 125 × 39 × 62 mm (5 × 1 9/16 × 2 1/2 in.) (w/h/d) excluding projecting parts Mass (approx.) 280 g (9.8 oz) excluding mains lead Cord length (approx.) Power cord: 2 m (6.6 feet) Connecting cord: 1.6 m (5.
— Quick Reference — Identifying the parts and controls Camcorder 1 6 2 7 3 8 4 9 5 q; 6 Display window (p. 13) 2 Focus ring (p. 53) 7 Viewfinder (p. 24) 3 Lens 8 MENU button (p. 96) 4 Microphone 9 BACK LIGHT button (p. 26) 5 Infrared rays emitter (p. 27, 36, 71) q; Focus button (p. 53) Quick Reference 1 Remote sensor This mark indicates that this product is a genuine accessory for Sony video products.
Identifying the parts and controls qa qf qs qg qh qd qj qa > MEMORY EJECT Lever (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 105) qs Power zoom lever (p. 24) qd POWER switch (p. 13) qf EDITSEARCH button (p. 30) qg SUPER LASER LINK button (p. 36) qh Intelligent accessory shoe (p. 85) qj Camera recording lamp (p. 21) Notes on the intelligent accessory shoe •The intelligent accessory shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, microphone or printer (DCR-TRV18 only) .
Identifying the parts and controls wa qk ws ql wd wf w; wg ql BATT release button (p. 12) w; Hooks for sholder strap wa (USB) jack (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 135) ws NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 27) wd SUPER NIGHTSHOT button (p. 27) wf (LANC) control jack LANC stands for Local Application Control Bus System. The control jack is used for controlling the tape transport of video equipment and other peripherals connected to the video equipment. This jack has the same function as the jack indicated as CONTROL L.
Identifying the parts and controls ed ej ek ef eg el eh r; REW REC PLAY FF STOP PAUSE ek END SEARCH button (p. 30) ef VOLUME buttons (p. 31) el PB ZOOM button (p. 59, 140) eg OPEN button (p. 21) r; Video control buttons (p. 33) x STOP (stop) m REW (rewind) N PLAY (playback) M FF (fastforward) X PAUSE (pause) z REC (record) eh LCD screen (p. 22) ej Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p.
Identifying the parts and controls rg MPEG PLAY MEMORY INDEX DELETE MEMORY MIX rh ra rs rd rf ra DISPLAY button (p. 32) rs RESET button (p. 154) rd FADER button (p. 44) rf AUDIO DUB button (p. 87) rj rg MEMORY operation buttons (DCR-TRV18 only) MPEG u button (p. 132) MEMORY PLAY button (p. 129) MEMORY INDEX button (p. 131) MEMORY DELETE button (p. 144) MEMORY +/– buttons (p. 129) MEMORY MIX button (p. 125) rh “Memory Stick” slot (DCR-TRV18 only) rj EXPOSURE button (p.
Identifying the parts and controls ta rk ts rl t; ta Grip strap rl OPEN/ ts Lens cap (p. 21) EJECT lever (p. 20) t; Tripod receptacle Make sure that the length of the tripod screw is less than 6.5 mm (9/32 inch). Otherwise, you cannot attach the tripod securely and the screw may damage your camcorder. Quick Reference rk Battery pack (p. 13) Fastening the grip strap 1 4 2 3 Fasten the grip strap firmly.
Identifying the parts and controls Remote Commander The buttons that have the same name on the Remote Commander as on your camcorder function identically to the buttons on your camcorder. 6 1 2 3 7 8 9 q; 4 5 1 PHOTO button (p. 38, 112) 3 SEARCH MODE button (p. 61, 62, 64) 6 Transmitter Point toward the remote sensor to control the camcorder after turning on the camcorder. 4 ./> buttons (p. 61, 62, 64) 7 ZERO SET MEMORY button (p. 60, 83) 5 Tape transport buttons (p. 33) 8 START/STOP button (p.
Identifying the parts and controls Operation indicators 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 0 min – ST I LL 1 6 : 9W I DE NEG . ART AUTO 6 0 AWB F 1. 7 STBY . + 0:1 2:3 4 1 2 min Z ERO S E T M E MO R Y END SEARCH A / V tD V 16B I T 100 - 0001 9 q; qa qs wk wj 2 wg wh qj Tape counter indicator (p. 25)/Time code indicator (p. 25)/Self-diagnosis indicator (p. 155)/Tape photo indicator (p. 38)/ Memory photo indicator (DCR-TRV18 only) (p. 112)/Image number indicator (DCR-TRV18 only) (p.
Index A, B I, J, K, L R AC power adaptor .................. 13 Adjusting viewfinder ............. 24 Audio dubbing ........................ 85 AUDIO MIX ............................ 98 Audio mode ........................... 101 AUTO SHUTTER .................... 97 A/V connecting cable .................... 35, 40, 66, 118, 122 BACK LIGHT .......................... 26 Battery pack ............................. 12 Beep ........................................ 102 BOUNCE ..................................