Sony HDW-790P User manual

HD CAMCORDER
HDW-790
HDW-790P
OPERATION MANUAL [English]
1st Edition

2
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock,
do not expose this apparatus to rain or
moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open the
cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified
personnel only.
For the customers in the U.S.A.
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. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference
to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try
to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
—Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
—Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
—Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected.
—Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.
You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not
expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.
All interface cables used to connect peripherals must be
shielded in order to comply with the limits for a digital device
pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
For the State of California, USA only
Perchlorate Material - special handling may apply, See
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate
Perchlorate Material : Lithium battery contains perchlorate.
For the customers in Europe
This product with the CE marking complies with the EMC
Directive issued by the Commission of the European
Community.
Compliance with this directive implies conformity to the
following European standards:
• EN55103-1 : Electromagnetic Interference (Emission)
• EN55103-2 : Electromagnetic Susceptibility (Immunity)
This product is intended for use in the following
Electromagnetic Environments: E1 (residential), E2
(commercial and light industrial), E3 (urban outdoors), E4
(controlled EMC environment, ex. TV studio).
For the customers in Europe
The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1
Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo,Japan.
The Authorized Representative for EMC and product safety is
Sony Deutschland GmbH,Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327
Stuttgart, Germany. For any service or guarantee matters
please refer to the addresses given in separate service or
guarantee documents.
For the customers in the USA and Canada
RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable.
You can help preserve our environment by returning your used
rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location
nearest you.
For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable
batteries, call toll free 1-800-822-8837, or visit
http://www.rbrc.org/
Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion
batteries.
Voor de Klanten in Nederland
• Gooi de batterij niet weg maar lever deze in als klein
chemisch afval (KCA).
• Dit apparaat bevat een vast ingebouwde batterij die niet
vervangen hoeft te worden tijdens de levensduur van het
apparaat.
• Raadpleeg uw leverancier indien de batterij toch vervangen
moet worden. De batterij mag alleen vervangen worden door
vakbekwaam servicepersoneel.
• Lever het apparaat aan het einde van de levensduur in voor
recycling, de batterij zal dan op correcte wijze verwerkt
worden.
For the customers in Taiwan only
WARNING

3
Afin de réduire les risques d’incendie ou
d’électrocution, ne pas exposer cet
appareil à la pluie ou à l’humidité.
Afin d’écarter tout risque d’électrocution,
garder le coffret fermé. Ne confier
l’entretien de l’appareil qu’à un personnel
qualifié.
Pour les clients européens
Ce produit portant la marque CE est conforme à la Directive
sur la compatibilité électromagnétique (EMC) émise par la
Commission de la Communauté européenne.
La conformité à cette directive implique la conformité aux
normes européennes suivantes :
• EN55103-1 : Interférences électromagnétiques (émission)
• EN55103-2 : Sensibilité électromagnétique (immunité)
Ce produit est prévu pour être utilisé dans les environnements
électromagnétiques suivants : E1 (résidentiel), E2
(commercial et industrie légère), E3 (urbain extérieur) et E4
(environnement EMC contrôlé, ex. studio de télévision).
Pour les clients en Europe
Le fabricant de ce produit est Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan,
Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japon.
Le représentant autorisé pour EMC et la sécurité des produits
est Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327
Stuttgart, Allemagne. Pour toute question concernant le
service ou la garantie, veuillez consulter les adresses
indiquées dans les documents de service ou de garantie
séparés.
Pour les utilisateurs aux Etats-Unis et au Canada.
RECYCLAGE DES ACCUMULATEURS AUX IONS DE
LITHIUM
Les accumulateurs aux ions de lithium sont recyclables.
Vous pouvez contribuer à préserver l’environnement en
rapportant les piles usées dans un point de collection et
recyclage le plus proche.
Pour plus d’informations sur le recyclage des accumulateurs,
téléphonez le numéro gratuit 1-800-822-8837 (Etats-Unis et
Canada uniquement), ou visitez http://www.rbrc.org/
Avertissment: Ne pas utiliser des accumulateurs aux ions de
lithium qui sont endommagées ou qui fuient.
Um die Gefahr von Bränden oder
elektrischen Schlägen zu verringern, darf
dieses Gerät nicht Regen oder Feuchtigkeit
ausgesetzt werden.
Um einen elektrischen Schlag zu
vermeiden, darf das Gehäuse nicht
geöffnet werden. Überlassen Sie
Wartungsarbeiten stets nur qualifiziertem
Fachpersonal.
Für Kunden in Europa
Dieses Produkt besitzt die CE-Kennzeichnung und erfüllt die
EMV-Richtlinie der EG-Kommission.
Angewandte Normen:
• EN55103-1: Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit
(Störaussendung)
• EN55103-2: Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit
(Störfestigkeit),
für die folgenden elektromagnetischen Umgebungen: E1
(Wohnbereich), E2 (kommerzieller und in beschränktem
Maße industrieller Bereich), E3 (Stadtbereich im Freien) und
E4 (kontrollierter EMV-Bereich, z.B. Fernsehstudio).
Für Kunden in Europa
Der Hersteller dieses Produkts ist Sony Corporation, 1-7-1
Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
Der autorisierte Repräsentant für EMV und Produktsicherheit
ist Sony Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327
Stuttgart, Deutschland. Bei jeglichen Angelegenheiten in
Bezug auf Kundendienst oder Garantie wenden Sie sich bitte
an die in den separaten Kundendienst- oder
Garantiedokumenten aufgeführten Anschriften.
Für Kunden in Deutschland
Entsorgungshinweis: Bitte werfen Sie nur entladene Batterien
in die Sammelboxen beim Handel oder den Kommunen.
Entladen sind Batterien in der Regel dann, wenn das Gerät
abschaltet und signalisiert „Batterie leer“ oder nach längerer
Gebrauchsdauer der Batterien „nicht mehr einwandfrei
funktioniert“. Um sicherzugehen, kleben Sie die Batteriepole
z.B. mit einem Klebestreifen ab oder geben Sie die Batterien
einzeln in einen Plastikbeutel.
AVERTISSEMENT WARNUNG

4Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Setting the Frame Frequency ............................................... 9
Chapter 1 Overview
1-1 Features ......................................................................... 11
1-1-1 Camera Features .............................................................11
1-1-2 VTR Features ..................................................................12
1-1-3 Other Features.................................................................12
1-2 Example of System Configuration .............................. 14
1-3 Precautions ................................................................... 15
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
2-1 Power Supply ................................................................ 16
2-2 Accessory Attachments ............................................... 17
2-3 Audio Functions............................................................ 18
2-4 Shooting and Recording/Playback Functions ........... 21
2-5 Menu Operating Section............................................... 26
2-6 Time Code System........................................................ 28
2-7 Warnings and Indications ............................................ 30
2-8 Warnings and Indications on the Display Panel ........ 31
2-9 Indicators in the Viewfinder ......................................... 33
Chapter 3 Recording and Playback
3-1 About Cassettes............................................................ 34
3-1-1 Loading and Unloading a Cassette .................................34
3-1-2 Preventing Accidental Erasure........................................35
3-2 Recording ...................................................................... 36
3-2-1 Basic Procedures.............................................................36
3-2-2 Continuous Recording ....................................................37
3-2-3 Recording Good Shot Marks ..........................................38
3-2-4 Recording a Recording Start Mark .................................39
3-2-5 Starting a Shoot with a Few Seconds of Pre-Stored Picture
Data (Picture Cache Function: with the HKDW-703)....40
3-2-6 Shooting Picture at Intervals (Interval Rec Function: with
the HKDW-703) .............................................................42
3-2-7 Continuous Recording on Previous Cut..........................49

5
Table of Contents
3-2-8 Searching for the Last Recorded Portion and Turning on
Recording Pause Mode (End Search Function) ..............50
3-3 Checking Recording and Playback..............................50
3-3-1 Checking the Last Two Seconds of the Recording —
Recording Review...........................................................50
3-3-2 Checking the Recording on the Color Video Monitor —
Playback in Color............................................................51
3-3-3 Checking the Camera Picture on the Viewfinder and/or
Color Video Monitor.......................................................51
3-4 Recording the Recording Start Time Code onto the
Memory Label — Tele-File ............................................52
3-4-1 Recording the Recording Start Time Code onto the
Memory Label.................................................................52
3-4-2 Recording a Tele-File Mark (OK/NG/KP) onto the
Memory Label.................................................................52
3-4-3 Warning/Error Messages in Memory Label Operation...54
3-4-4 Confirming the Remaining Capacity on the Memory
Label ..............................................................................55
3-4-5 Clearing Recorded Data ..................................................55
3-5 Freezing a Picture During Playback.............................56
3-6 Setting the Stand-by off Timer During Rec-Pause .....57
Chapter 4 Adjustments and Settings for Recording
4-1 Adjusting the Black Balance and the White Balance .58
4-1-1 Adjusting the Black Balance...........................................58
4-1-2 Adjusting the White Balance ..........................................59
4-2 Setting the Electronic Shutter ......................................61
4-2-1 Shutter Modes .................................................................61
4-2-2 Selecting the Shutter Mode and Shutter Speed ...............62
4-3 Changing the Reference Value for Automatic Iris
Adjustment.....................................................................65
4-4 Adjusting the Audio Level ............................................67
4-4-1 Manually Adjusting the Audio Input Level of the AUDIO
IN CH-1/CH-2 Connectors .............................................67
4-4-2 Manually Adjusting the Audio Level of the Front
Microphone .....................................................................68
4-4-3 Input Level of Audio Channels CH-3 and CH-4 ............69
4-5 Setting the Time Data....................................................70
4-5-1 Setting the Time Code.....................................................70
4-5-2 Saving the Actual Time in the Time Code......................71
4-5-3 Setting the User Bits........................................................71
4-5-4 Synchronizing the Time Code.........................................72

6Table of Contents
Chapter 5 Menu Displays and Detailed Settings
5-1 Menu Organization and Operation .............................. 74
5-1-1 Menu Organization .........................................................74
5-1-2 Basic Menu Operations...................................................75
5-1-3 Editing the USER Menu .................................................77
5-1-4 Adding Functions to be Assigned to Assignable
Switches..........................................................................79
5-2 Status Display on the Viewfinder Screen ................... 81
5-2-1 Layout of the Status Display on the Viewfinder Screen.81
5-2-2 Selecting Display Items ..................................................83
5-2-3 Display Modes and Setting Change Confirmation/
Adjustment Progress Messages ......................................84
5-2-4 Selecting the Items for Which the ‘!’ LED is to Light ...85
5-2-5 Setting Marker Display...................................................86
5-2-6 Setting the Viewfinder ....................................................87
5-2-7 Recording Shot Data Superimposed on the Color Bars..87
5-2-8 Setting the Shot ID..........................................................88
5-2-9 Displaying the Status Confirmation Windows ...............90
5-2-10 Confirming the Image of the Return Video Signal in the
Viewfinder ......................................................................91
5-3 Adjustments and Settings from Menus ...................... 92
5-3-1 Setting Gain Values for the GAIN Selector Positions....92
5-3-2 Selecting Output Signals.................................................93
5-3-3 Setting the Color Temperature Manually .......................94
5-3-4 Specifying an Offset for the Auto White Balance
Setting.............................................................................94
5-3-5 Assigning Functions to Assignable Switches .................95
5-3-6 Setting the Date/Time of the Internal Clock ...................97
5-3-7 Selecting a Lens File.......................................................98
5-3-8 Using AMID Data...........................................................99
5-3-9 Using the Hyper Gamma ..............................................101
5-3-10 Using the Freeze Mix Function ..................................102
5-4 Resetting USER Menu Settings to the Standard
Settings........................................................................ 105
Chapter 6 Saving and Loading User Setting Data
6-1 Saving and Loading User Files.................................. 107
6-1-1 Handling the “Memory Stick” ......................................107
6-1-2 Saving USER Menu Data (User File) to the “Memory
Stick” ............................................................................108
6-1-3 Loading Saved Data from a “Memory Stick”...............110

7
Table of Contents
6-2 Saving and Loading Scene Files................................111
6-2-1 Saving a Scene File .......................................................111
6-2-2 Loading a Scene File.....................................................113
6-2-3 Resetting the Camcorder Settings to the Standard Settings
Saved in the Reference File ..........................................114
6-3 Jumping to a File-Related Menu Page When Inserting a
“Memory Stick”............................................................115
Chapter 7 Setting Up the Camcorder
7-1 Power Supply...............................................................117
7-1-1 Using a Battery Pack.....................................................117
7-1-2 Avoiding Breaks in Operation Due to an Exhausted
Battery...........................................................................117
7-1-3 Using an AC Adaptor....................................................118
7-1-4 Using the Anton Bauer Ultralight System ....................118
7-2 Adjusting the Viewfinder.............................................118
7-2-1 Adjusting the Viewfinder Position................................118
7-2-2 Adjusting the Viewfinder Focus and Screen.................119
7-2-3 Detaching the Viewfinder .............................................119
7-2-4 Detaching the Eyepiece.................................................120
7-3 Mounting the Lens.......................................................121
7-4 Adjusting the Flange Focal Length............................121
7-5 Audio Input System.....................................................122
7-5-1 Using the Supplied Microphone....................................122
7-5-2 Using an External Microphone .....................................123
7-5-3 Attaching a UHF Portable Tuner (for a UHF Wireless
Microphone System).....................................................125
7-5-4 Connecting Line Input Audio Equipment.....................126
7-6 Tripod Mounting ..........................................................126
7-7 Attaching/Detaching the Shoulder Strap...................127
7-8 Adjusting the Shoulder Pad Position ........................128
7-9 Attaching the Rain Cover (Not Supplied) ..................128
7-10 Connecting the Remote Control Unit.......................129
Chapter 8 Maintenance
8-1 Testing the Camcorder Before Shooting...................131
8-1-1 Preparations for Testing ................................................131
8-1-2 Testing the Camera .......................................................131
8-1-3 Testing the VTR............................................................133
8-2 Maintenance.................................................................135

8Table of Contents
8-2-1 Cleaning the Video Heads ............................................135
8-2-2 Cleaning the Viewfinder...............................................135
8-2-3 Cleaning the Tape Transport System............................135
8-2-4 Performing Maintenance After Use Under Severe
Condition ......................................................................135
8-3 Periodic Inspection..................................................... 136
8-3-1 Hours Meter ..................................................................136
8-3-2 List of Parts for the Periodic Inspection .......................136
8-4 Operation Warnings.................................................... 138
Appendixes
Specifications..................................................................... 140
General ....................................................................................140
Video Camera Section .............................................................140
VTR Section ............................................................................141
Recommended Additional Equipment ....................................141
Menu List ............................................................................ 143
OPERATION Menu ................................................................143
PAINT Menu ...........................................................................150
MAINTENANCE Menu .........................................................155
FILE Menu ..............................................................................164
DIAGNOSIS Menu .................................................................167
About a “Memory Stick”.................................................... 168
Index.................................................................................... 170

9
Setting the Frame Frequency
Setting the Frame
Frequency
The factory setting of the frame frequency of the HDW-
790 is 59.94i. On the HDW-790P, the frame frequency is
factory-set to 50i. To use the camcorder with a format other
than the one set at the factory, you should change the
setting of the frame frequency first.
In the procedure below, the HDW-790 is used for
illustration purposes.
1 Set the POWER switch to ON.
2 Open the switch cover, and then set the MENU ON/
OFF switch to ON while pushing the MENU knob.
The TOP menu appears.
3 Turn the MENU knob to move the bmark to
MAINTENANCE, then push the MENU knob.
When the MAINTENANCE menu is used for the first
time, the CONTENTS page appears.
Or, if you have used the MAINTENANCE menu
before, the page that was on the screen when the last
menu operation ended appears.
4 When the CONTENTS page is displayed, push the
MENU knob once, and then turn the MENU knob to
move the bmark to FORMAT.
Or, turn the MENU knob until the FORMAT page
appears from the CONTENTS page.
When any page of the MAINTENANCE menu is
displayed, turn the MENU knob until the FORMAT
page appears.
5 Push the MENU knob.
The FORMAT page appears.
6 Confirm the bmark is positioned at NEXT, then push
the MENU knob.
The bmark to the left of NEXT changes to a zmark,
and the zmark to the left of the setting changes to a ?
mark.
Note
MENU knob MENU ON/OFF switch
Switch cover
POWER switch
When a question mark
appears at the top left of the
title page, you can switch
pages by turning the MENU
knob
Frame
frequency
currently
selected

10 Setting the Frame Frequency
7 Turn the MENU knob clockwise or counterclockwise
until the desired frame frequency appears.
The message “PLEASE POWER OFF bON TO
CHANGE FORMAT” appears.
8 Set the POWER switch to OFF once, and then to ON.
The camcorder will operate at the desired frame
frequency.
Even if you do not push the MENU knob to execute the
change, the frame frequency selected in step 7
becomes effective only by turning the power of the
camcorder off and on again.

11
Chapter 1 Overview
Chapter
Features
1
Overview
1-1 Features
The HDW-790/790P camcorder is a color video camera
with 1920 (H) × 1080 (V) effective picture elements; it
incorporates 2/3-inch CCDs with 2,000,000 picture
elements and an HDCAM format recorder combined
integrally. The introduction of new integrated circuit
technology (LSI) for processing the HD digital signal
improves the image quality even further, and simplifies
setup (initialization) operations.
In this manual, the HDW-790 is used for illustration
purposes.
1-1-1 Camera Features
2/3-inch Power HAD1) CCDs
The high sensitivity, low smear 2/3-inch Power HAD
CCDs (FIT-type CCDs) provide high image quality, which
puts this HD camcorder at the top of its class.
The HDW-790 is compatible with the 59.94i and 50i
formats. And the HDW-790P is compatible with the 50i
and 25PsF formats.
1) Abbreviation of “Power Hole-Accumulated Diode.” “Power HAD” is a
registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
Camera signal processing for high quality
video
• The 12-bit A/D converter provides stable, high-quality
images and reliability.
• Blur-free shooting is ensured by a built-in, high
performance electronic shutter that provides a variety of
modes, such as ECS1) mode which reduces flickering on
the monitor screen, and S-EVS2) mode that improves
vertical resolution.
1) ECS: Extended Clear Scan
2) S-EVS: Super Enhanced Vertical Definition System
Shooting functions to cope with different
shooting conditions
• With the scene file function, you can easily recall sets of
adjustment values from the built-in memory, to match
particular lighting conditions.
•TheATW
1) function provides automatic white balance
adjustment in response to changing lighting conditions.
• The TruEye™2) process yields distortion-free video,
even with high intensity colors.
• The TURBO GAIN button enables an instantaneous
boost of the video gain to the maximum 42 dB.
1) ATW: Auto Tracing White balance
2) TruEye: “TruEye” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Wide range of menu settings
The menus provide a wide variety of operations and
settings, including:
• Status display, message, and marker display settings
• Camera adjustment settings
• Assignable switch function assignment
•“MemoryStick
1)” operations
You can assign any settings to a USER menu, to create
customized menus.
1) “Memory Stick” is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.
Saving and recalling settings from a
“Memory Stick”
Using an optional “Memory Stick,” you can save menu
settings for particular shooting conditions, for recall as
required.
Down converter function
• Attaching an optional HKDW-702 extension board
(converting to a 525/59.94i and 625/50i signal) allows
you to monitor the camera image and playback image in
1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, and 1080/25PsF formats on an
NTSC/PAL monitor.
• The HKDW-702 extension board makes it possible to
output an SDI signal (corresponding to Embedded
Audio).
• Three down-conversion modes are available: SQEZE,
LETTR BOX and CROP.
Note

12 Features
Chapter 1 Overview
Slow shutter mode function
Installing an optional HKDW-905R extension board
enables the camcorder to store up to 64 frames. The slow
shutter function is useful not only for shooting in
extremely dark conditions without noise, but also for
shooting moving objects with a special afterimage effect.
Image inversion function
Installing an optional HKDW-905R extension board,
which has an anti-image inversion function, allows you to
cancel the image inversion phenomena that occurs when a
cine-lens converter is used.
The slow shutter and image inversion functions of the
optional HKDW-905R extension board cannot be used at
the same time.
ARIB color bar output
When the HKDW-905R Slow Shutter and Image Inverter
Board is installed and when the OUTPUT/DCC switch is
set to BARS, ARIB multi-format color bar signal is output.
Remote control connectors
By connecting an optional RM-B150/B750 or similar
remote control unit, you can control the camera settings of
the camcorder externally.
1-1-2 VTR Features
HDCAM format
• Use of the HDCAM format allows high performance HD
digital recording and playback while preserving the
same ease of use as conventional camcorder equipment.
• The same cassette size (S size) as Digital Betacam can be
used to achieve the following long recording times.
For 30 frames (59.94i): Approximately 40 minutes
For 25 frames (50i and 25PsF): Approximately 48
minutes
Time Code operations
•LTC
1) and VITC2) recording and LTC playback are
available.
• The built-in time code generator can be synchronized
with an external generator.
• A lithium battery provides the back-up power supply for
the built-in time code generator enabling the camcorder
to hold the time code for approximately 5 years without
supplying the power to the camcorder.
• The time code can be displayed in the LCD window
screen even when the power is off. The automatic power
shut-off function allows you to set the time to be
displayed from among three patterns.
1) LTC: Longitudinal Time Code
2) VITC: Vertical Interval Time Code
Picture cache recording/interval recording
function
Installing an optional HKDW-703 extension board allows
the camcorder to constantly store a few seconds (up to 8
seconds) of the most current picture and sound data in the
board’s memory. As a result, when you press the VTR
START button, the recording starts with the data stored a
few seconds before. Installing an optional HKDW-703
extension board enables the camcorder to record pictures
intermittently.
Other VTR functions
• Recording continuity from the very next frame is
ensured.
• You can automatically rewind and review the last 2
seconds of the recording on the tape for a quick check
immediately after shooting.
• A four-times-normal speed color search function
provides quick positioning of the tape.
• With the RE-TAKE function, the camcorder searches for
the most recently recorded cut and records the new cut
over it.
• With the End-Search function, the camcorder searches
for the point most recently recorded on the tape and
automatically switches to recording pause mode (REC
pause).
• The freeze function is provided to obtain a freeze-frame
picture from the playback picture on the VTR by
pressing the STOP button during playback.
• The camcorder is compatible with the Tele-File1)
Memory Label system. When you press the RET button
on the lens while recording, the time code valid when
you pressed the button is recorded on an optional MLB-
1M-100 memory label attached to the cassette. This is
very helpful for management of cassette tapes and to
improve the efficiency of tape editing.
1) Tele-File: The Tele-File system is a non-contact data reading/writing
system that allows data about recorded material to be stored on a tape label
with a non-contact IC memory.
1-1-3 Other Features
HD-SDI output connectors
Two HD-SDI (Embedded Audio) output connectors allow
you to monitor camera and playback images without
attaching a camera adaptor.
Note

13
Features
Chapter 1 Overview
Audio functions
• The MIC IN (microphone input) connector (XLR type,
5-pin, female) allows you to connect the supplied stereo
microphone. You can record either stereo or monaural
sound.
• An optional slot-in UHF portable tuner, WRR-855A/
855B, can be attached.
• The two AUDIO IN connectors (XLR type, 3-pin) on the
rear panel can be switched to line input, microphone
input, or + 48V external power, and also to AES/EBU
digital audio inputs.
• Four channels of 20-bit digital audio can be recorded.
• The AUDIO OUT connector (XLR 5-pin) allows the
camcorder to output signals as stereo audio.
Proper balancing design
The camcorder features a new shoulder-pad system that
enables you to adjust the front-to-rear direction position (to
ensure proper balance) without the use of any tools.
Freeze Mix function
Apart from the freeze function to obtain a freeze-frame
picture from the playback picture on the VTR, a freeze-
frame picture of the video signal input from the camera can
be obtained. The obitained freeze-frame picture and the
video from the camera can then be mixed and displayed.
This function is available only when the HKDW-905R
Slow Shutter and Image Inverter Board is installed.
Function extension interface and optional
boards
An extension connector can be attached to the battery
attachment on the rear panel.
Use of the following optional boards permits you to
expand the existing functions.
• HKDW-702 Down Converter Board
• HKDW-703 Picture Cache Board
• HKDW-905R Slow Shutter and Image Inverter Board

14 Example of System Configuration
Chapter 1 Overview
1-2 Example of System Configuration
The diagram below shows a typical configuration of the
camcorder for ENG and EFP.
In this manual, an optional HDVF-20A HD Electronic
Viewfinder is used to instruct how to operate the unit.
For more information about the fittings, connections, or
use of additional equipment and accessories, see “Chapter
7 Setting Up the Camcorder” as well as the operation
manuals for the connected equipment.
Control signals
RM-B150/B750 Remote Control Unit
“Memory Stick” (see page 142) Audio output
Audio equipment for monitoring (XLR 5-pin
connector)
Extension board
Product Model name
Down Converter Board HKDW-702
Picture Cache Board HKDW-703
Slow Shutter and
Image Inverter Board
HKDW-905R
Viewfinder-related equipment
Name / Purpose Magnification Part No.
Fog-proof filter — 1-547-341-11
Lens assembly –2.8 D to +2.0 D A-8262-537-A
Lens assembly –3.6 D to –0.8 D A-8262-538-A
Lens assembly –3.6 D to +0.4 D A-8267-737-A
Lens assembly
(3 ×magnification)
–2.4 D to +0.5 D A-8314-798-A
BKW-401 Viewfinder Rotation Bracket
AC power supply
Battery
Product Model name
AC Adaptor AC-DN10
Product Model name
Battery Charger BC-L70/M150
Battery Pack BP-GL65/GL95/L60S
Audio input signals
External microphone ECM-674/678 or similar
microphone
CAC-12 Microphone Holder
Analog audio equipment
CCXA-53 audio cable
WRR-861A/861B/862A/862B UHF Portable Tuner
WRR-855A/855B UHF Synthesized Tuner Unit
Video output
Video monitor for color image check during
shooting
Viewfinder
HDVF-20A HD Electronic Viewfinder
HDVF-C30W HD Electronic Viewfinder

15
Precautions
Chapter 1 Overview
1-3 Precautions
Use and Storage
Do not subject the unit to severe shocks
The internal mechanism may be damaged or the body
warped.
After use
Always turn off the power.
Before storing the unit for a long period
Remove the battery pack.
Use and storage locations
Store in a level, ventilated place. Avoid using or storing the
unit in the following places:
• Places subject to temperature extremes
• Very damp places
• Places subject to severe vibration
• Near strong magnetic fields
• In direct sunlight or close to heaters for extended periods
To prevent electromagnetic interference from
portable communications devices
The use of portable telephones and other communications
devices near this unit can result in malfunctions and
interference with audio and video signals.
It is recommended that the portable communications
devices near this unit be powered off.
Note on laser beams
Laser beams may damage the CCDs. If you shoot a scene
that includes a laser beam, be careful not to let the laser
beam be directed into the lens of the camera.
Phenomena specific to CCD image
sensors
The following phenomena that may appear in images are
specific to CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensors.
They do not indicate malfunctions.
White flecks
Although the CCD image sensors are produced with high-
precision technologies, fine white flecks may be generated
on the screen in rare cases, caused by cosmic rays, etc.
This is related to the principle of CCD image sensors and
is not a malfunction.
The white flecks especially tend to be seen in the following
cases:
• when operating at a high environmental temperature
• when you have raised the master gain (sensitivity)
• when operating in Slow-Shutter mode
This product has a compensation function and the problem
may be alleviated by automatic black balance adjustment
(see page 58).
Vertical smear
When an extremely bright object, such as a strong spotlight
or flashlight, is being shot, vertical tails may be produced
on the screen, or the image may be distorted.
Aliasing
When fine patterns, stripes, or lines are shot, they may
appear jagged or flicker.
Vertical tails shown on the
image.
Monitor screen
Bright object (e.g. strong
spotlight, strong reflected
light, flashlight, the sun)

16 Power Supply
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
Chapter 2
Locations and Functions
of Parts and Controls
2-1 Power Supply
aBattery attachment
Attach a battery pack, BP-GL65, BP-GL95, or BP-L60S.
Alternatively, by attaching an AC-DN10 AC Adaptor, you
can operate the camcorder from AC power.
bDC IN connector (XLR type, 4-pin, male)
To operate the camcorder using an AC power supply,
connect an AC-550/550CE AC Adaptor with the DC
output cable supplied with the adaptor.
To use an external battery, connect its DC output cable to
the DC IN connector.
When this connector is not being used, attach the supplied
XLR connector cover onto it.
cPOWER switch
Turns the main power supply on and off.
dLIGHT switch
Determines how a video light connected to the LIGHT
connector is turned on and off.
AUTO: When the switch on the video light is in the on
position, putting the camcorder in recording mode
turns the video light on automatically. When using the
auto interval recording mode, the video light is
automatically turned on immediately before recording
starts.
MANUAL: You can turn the video? light on or off
manually, using its own switch.
cPOWER switch
dLIGHT switch
bDC IN connector
aBattery attachment

17
Accessory Attachments
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
2-2 Accessory Attachments
aShoulder strap posts
Attach the supplied shoulder strap to these posts.
For details, see “7-7 Attaching/Detaching the Shoulder
Strap” on page 127.
bLight shoe
Attach an optional accessory such as a video light to this
shoe.
cLIGHT connector (2-pin, female)
Connect the cable of an Anton Bauer Ultralight System
attached to the light shoe. The system operates with lights
powered by 12 V, with a maximum power consumption of
50 W.
dLens mount (special bayonet mount)
Use this for mounting the lens.
eLens mount lever
After inserting the lens in the lens mount, rotate the lens
mount ring with this lever to lock the lens in position.
fLens mount cap
Remove this cap by pushing up the lens mounting lever.
When no lens is mounted, keep this cap fitted for
protection from dust.
gLENS connector (12-pin)
Fit the lens cable to this connector. Contact your Sony
representative for more information about the lenses you
can use.
hTripod mount
When using the camcorder on a tripod, attach the tripod
adaptor (optional).
iShoulder pad
You can move the shoulder pad forwards or backwards by
raising up the shoulder pad locking lever. Do this to ensure
the best balance when shooting with the camcorder on
your shoulder.
For details, see “7-8 Adjusting the Shoulder Pad Position”
on page 128.
cLIGHT connector
dLens mount
bLight shoe
aShoulder strap posts
eLens mount lever
fLens mount cap
gLENS connector
hTripod mount
iShoulder pad
Lens cable clamp

18 Audio Functions
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
2-3 Audio Functions
Audio functions (1)
aMicrophone
This is a supplied directivity super-cardioid stereo
microphone with an external power supply (+48 V)
system.
Assigning the F.MIC MONO/STEREO function to the
ASSIGN 1 switch, ASSIGN 2 switch, or TURBO GAIN
button allows you to switch the output signal of the
microphone connected to the MIC IN connector between
stereo and monaural sound.
For details, see “5-3-5 Assigning Functions to Assignable
Switches” on page 95.
bMIC IN (microphone input) connector (XLR type,
5-pin, female)
Connect the supplied microphone to this connector. A
microphone other than the supplied one may also be
connected if it can operate with the power (+48 V)
supplied from this connector.
cMIC (microphone) LEVEL control
Adjusts the audio level of the microphone connected to the
MIC IN connector.
dEARPHONE jacks (minijacks)
You can monitor the E-E sound 1) during recording and
play back sound during playback. Plugging an earphone
into the jack automatically cuts off the built-in speaker.
When an alarm is indicated, you can hear the alarm sound
through the earphone.
You can connect earphones to both connectors at the same
time.
1) E-E: Abbreviation of “Electric-to-Electric.” In E-E mode, video and audio
signals input to the camcorder are output after passing through internal
electric circuits only. This can be used to check input signals.
eMONITOR switch and CH-1/2 / CH-3/4 switch
Determine the channel selection for audio monitor output.
CH-1/2 / CH-3/4 switch:
Determines the pair of audio channels selected with the
MONITOR switch.
CH-1/2 position: channels 1 and 2
CH-3/4 position: channels 3 and 4
The signals output from the AUDIO OUT connector and
EARPHONE jacks and the audio level meter in the display
window also depend on the setting of this switch.
MONITOR switch:
Selects the audio monitor channels output to the earphone
or speaker, depending on the setting of the CH-1/2 / CH-3/
4 switch.
cMIC LEVEL control
gALARM volume control
bMIC IN connector
aMicrophone
fMONITOR volume control
eMONITOR switch and CH-1/2 / CH-3/4 switch
hBuilt-in speaker
dEARPHONE jack (front)
dEARPHONE jack (rear)
MONITOR switch
CH-1/2 / CH-3/4 switch

19
Audio Functions
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
fMONITOR volume control
Adjusts the speaker or earphone volume for sounds other
than the alarm sound. At the minimum position, no sound
can be heard.
gALARM volume control
Adjusts the speaker or earphone alarm volume. At the
minimum position, no sound can be heard.
hBuilt-in speaker
The speaker can be used to monitor E-E sound during
recording, and play back sound during playback. The
speaker also sounds alarms to reinforce visual warnings.
If you connect an earphone to the EARPHONE jack, the
speaker is automatically muted.
See “8-4 Operation Warnings” on page 138 for
information about alarms.
Audio functions (2)
iLEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) (audio channel-1 and
channel-2 recording level) controls
Adjust the audio levels of channels 1 and 2 when the
AUDIO SELECT switches are set to MANUAL.
jAUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) (audio channel-1
and channel-2 adjustment method selection) switches
Select the audio level adjustment method for each of audio
channels 1 and 2.
AUTO: Select this setting for automatic adjustment.
MANUAL: Select this setting for manual adjustment.
CH-1/2 /
CH-3/4 switch
position
MONITOR
switch
position
Audio output
CH-1/2 CH-1 Audio channel 1
MIX Mix sound of channels 1 and 2
CH-2 Audio channel 2
CH-3/4 CH-3 Audio channel 3
MIX Mix sound of channels 3 and 4
CH-4 Audio channel 4
Minimum Maximum
iLEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) controls
kAUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2/CH-3/CH-4 switches
jAUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches
mLINE / AES/EBU / MIC selectors
oAUDIO OUT connector
n+48V/OFF switches
lCUE IN switch
qDC OUT 12V connector
pAUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors

20 Audio Functions
Chapter 2 Locations and Functions of Parts and Controls
kAUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 / CH-3/CH-4 (audio input
selection) switches
CH-1/CH-2 switches
Select the audio input signals to be recorded on audio
channels 1 and 2.
FRONT: The input signal source is the microphone
connected to the MIC IN connector.
REAR: The input signal source is the audio equipment
connected to the AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors.
WIRELESS: The input signal source is an optional WRR-
855A/855B UHF Synthesized Tuner Unit.
CH-3/CH-4 switches
Select the audio input signals to be recorded on audio
channels 3 and 4.
F (front): The input signal source is the microphone
connected to the MIC IN connector.
R (rear): The input signal source is the audio equipment
connected to the AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors.
W (wireless): The input signal source is an optional WRR-
855A/855B UHF Synthesized Tuner Unit.
lCUE IN (cue track input) switch
Selects the input signal to be recorded on the cue track.
CH-1: Signal selected by the AUDIO IN CH-1 switch
MIX: Mixed signals selected by the AUDIO IN CH-1 and
CH-2 switches
CH-2: Signal selected by the AUDIO IN CH-2 switch
When recording mixed signals by setting this switch to
MIX, be sure to confirm that the emphasis settings of the
two channels (on/off) are the same. If they are different, the
camcorder cannot record or play back mixed signals
correctly.
When the AES/EBU format audio signal is selected, the
emphasis settings are determined by the channel status of
the AES/EBU format audio signal (emphasis bit).
When an audio signal other than the AES/EBU format
audio signal is selected, the emphasis setting depends on
the setting of AU REC EMPHASIS (page 158) on the
AUDIO-2 page of the MAINTENANCE menu.
mLINE / AES/EBU / MIC selectors
Select the audio source of the audio input signals input to
the AUDIO IN CH1/CH2 connectors.
LINE: Line input audio equipment
AES/EBU: AES/EBU format audio signal
MIC: Microphone input
If this selector is set to the MIC position and the +48V/
OFF switch is set to +48V, and if you inadvertently connect
any audio device other than a microphone to the AUDIO
IN CH1/CH2 connectors, the device may be damaged.
n+48V/OFF switches
Select either of the following positions for the
microphones to be connected.
+48V: For a microphone to use an external power supply
OFF: For a microphone to use an internal power supply
oAUDIO OUT (audio output) connector (XLR type,
5-pin, male)
Outputs the audio signals recorded on audio channels 1
and 2 or audio channels 3 and 4.
The MONITOR switch and CH-1/2 / CH-3/4 switches
allow you to select the audio signal to be monitored.
When this connector is not being used, attach the supplied
XLR connector cover onto it.
pAUDIO IN CH1/CH2 (audio channel-1 and
channel-2 input) connectors (XLR type, 3-pin, female)
These are audio input connectors for channels 1 and 2 to
which you can connect audio equipment or a microphone.
When the LINE / AES/EBU / MIC selector is set to AES/
EBU, the CH1 connector is used for channel-1 and -2
inputs, and the CH2 connector, for channel-3 and -4 inputs.
When the connector is not being used, attach the supplied
XLR connector cover onto it.
qDC OUT 12 V (DC power output) connector (4-pin,
female)
Supplies power for an optional WRR-861A/861B/862A/
862B UHF Portable Tuner. Do not connect any equipment
other than the UHF portable tuner.
Note
Note