Sony RMT-830 User manual

DCR-HC20
US Model
Canadian Model
Korea Model
DCR-HC16E/
HC18E/HC20E
AEP Model
East European Model
North European Model
DCR-HC18E/HC20E
UK Model
DCR-HC20/HC20E
E Model
Tourist Model
DCR-HC20E
Australian Model
Chinese Model
Hong Kong Model
SERVICE MANUAL
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA RECORDER
• INSTRUCTION MANUAL is shown at the end of this document.
• Table for differences of function of each model.
Revision History
Revision History
Ver 1.0 2004. 02
LEVEL 1
Link
ACCESSORIESSPECIFICATIONS ACCESSORIESSPECIFICATIONS
Link
Photo : DCR-HC20E
Z MECHANISM (MDX-Z200)
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/
HC20/HC20E
RMT-830

—2 —
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20/HC20E
SPECIFICATIONS
System
Video recording system
2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system
Audio recording system
Rotary heads, PCM system
Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 kHz, stereo 1,
stereo 2), 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo)
Video signal
DCR-HC20 :
PAL color, CCIR standards
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20E :
Usable cassette
Mini DV cassette with the mark
printed
Tape speed
SP: Approx. 18.81 mm/s
LP: Approx. 12.56 mm/s
Recording/playback time (using a DVM60
cassette)
SP: 60 min
LP: 90 min
Fast forward/rewind time (using a DVM60
cassette)
Approx. 2 min 40 sec.
Viewfinder
Electric viewfinder (black and white)
Image device
3 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge Coupled
Device)
Gross: Approx. 800 000 pixels
Effective (movie): Approx. 400 000 pixels
Lens
Carl Zeiss Vario Tessar
Combined power zoom lens
Filter diameter: 25 mm (1 in.)
10 × (Optical),
10 × (Optical),
100 × (Digital)
120 ×(Digital)
F = 1.7 ~ 2.3
Focal length
2.3 - 23 mm (3/32 - 29/32 in.)
When converted to a 35 mm still camera
In CAMERA:
43 - 430 mm (1 3/4 - 17 in.)
[ AUTO], [ONE PUSH], [INDOOR] (3
200 K), [OUTDOOR] (5 800 K)
Minimum illumination
5 lx (lux) (F 1.7)
0 lx (lux) (during the NightShot plus
function)*
* Objects unable to be seen due to the dark can be
shot with infrared lighting.
Input/Output connectors
Audio/Video output
10-pin connector
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms),
unbalanced
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms),
unbalanced
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms),
unbalanced
Audio signal: 327 mV (at output impedance
more than 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Output
impedance with less than 2.2 kΩ(kilohms)
DV input (For DCR-HC20/HC20E)/output
4-pin connector
LANC jack
Stereo mini-minijack (ø 2.5 mm)
USB jack
mini-B
MIC jack
Minijack, 0.388 mV low impedance with DC
2.5 to 3.0 V, output impedance 6.8 kΩ
(kilohms) (ø3.5 mm), Stereo type
LCD screen
Picture
6.2 cm (2.5 type)
Total dot number
123 200 (560 × 220)
General
Power requirements
DC 7.2 V (battery pack)
DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)
Average power consumption (when using the
battery pack)
During camera recording using the viewfinder
2.2 W
During camera recording using the LCD
2.5 W
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.)
50 ×86 × 112 mm (2 ×3 1/2 ×4 1/2 in.)
(w/h/d)
Mass (approx.)
380 g (13 oz) main unit only
440 g (15 oz) including the NP-FP50
rechargeable battery pack and DVM60
cassette.
Supplied accessories
See page 4.
AC Adaptor AC-L25A/L25B
Power requirements
AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Current consumption
0.35 - 0.18 A
Power consumption
18 W
Output voltage
DC 8.4 V, 1.5 A
Operating temperature
0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
Storage temperature
-20°C to + 60°C (-4°F to + 140°F)
Dimensions (approx.)
56 ×31 ×100 mm (2 1/4 ×11/4×4 in.)
(w/h/d) excluding the projecting parts
Mass (approx.)
190 g (6.7 oz) excluding the mains lead
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FP50)
Maximum output voltage
DC 8.4 V
Output voltage
DC 7.2 V
Capacity
4.9 Wh (680 mAh)
Dimensions (approx.)
31.8 ×18.5 ×45.0 mm
(1 5/16 ×3/4 ×1 13/16 in.) (w/h/d)
Mass (approx.)
40 g (1.5 oz)
Operating temperature
0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)
Type
Lithium ion
Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
NTSC color, EIA standards
Video camera recorder
DCR-HC20 :
DCR-HC16E :
DCR-HC18E/HC20/HC20E :
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20E :
Gross: Approx. 680 000 pixels
Effective (movie): Approx. 340 000 pixels
Color temperature
DCR-HC20 :
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20E :
Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 Ω
(ohms), unbalanced

—3 —
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20/HC20E
SAFETY-RELATED COMPONENT WARNING!!
COMPONENTS IDENTIFIED BY MARK 0OR DOTTED LINEWITH
MARK 0ON THE SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS AND IN THE PARTS
LIST ARE CRITICAL TO SAFE OPERATION. REPLACE THESE
COMPONENTS WITH SONY PARTS WHOSE PART NUMBERS
APPEAR AS SHOWN IN THIS MANUAL OR IN SUPPLEMENTS
PUBLISHED BY SONY.
ATTENTION AU COMPOSANT AYANT RAPPORT
À LA SÉCURITÉ!
LES COMPOSANTS IDENTIFÉS PAR UNE MARQUE 0SUR LES
DIAGRAMMES SCHÉMATIQUES ET LA LISTE DES PIÈCES SONT
CRITIQUES POUR LA SÉCURITÉ DE FONCTIONNEMENT. NE
REMPLACER CES COMPOSANTS QUE PAR DES PIÈSES SONY
DONT LES NUMÉROS SONT DONNÉS DANS CE MANUEL OU
DANS LES SUPPÉMENTS PUBLIÉS PAR SONY.
CAUTION :
Dangerof explosionif batteryis incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
1. Check the area of your repair for unsoldered or poorly-soldered
connections. Checktheentireboard surfaceforsoldersplashes
and bridges.
2. Check the interboard wiring to ensure that no wires are
"pinched" or contact high-wattage resistors.
3. Look for unauthorized replacement parts, particularly
transistors, that were installed during a previous repair. Point
them out to the customer and recommend their replacement.
SAFETY CHECK-OUT
After correcting the original service problem, perform the following
safety checks before releasing the set to the customer.
4. Look for parts which, through functioning,showobvious signs
of deterioration. Point them out to the customer and
recommend their replacement.
5. Check the B+ voltage to see it is at the values specified.
6. Flexible Circuit Board Repairing
•Keep the temperature of the soldering iron around 270˚C
during repairing.
• Do not touch the soldering iron on the same conductor of the
circuit board (within 3 times).
• Be careful not to apply force on the conductor when soldering
or unsoldering.
PAL
960H-P
✕
DCR-HC16E
AEP, NE, EE
✕
100 ×
DCR- HC18E
AEP , UK , NE , EE
DCR- HC20E
AEP, UK, NE, EE,
E, CH, AUS, HK, JE
PAL
960H-P
Table for difference of function
Model
Destination
Color System
Remote Commander
Lens Optical
Digital
CCD Imager
DV Input
DCR- HC20
US , CND , E ,
KR , JE
NTSC
a
120 ×
960H
a
10 ×
• Abbreviation
CND : Canadian model
EE : East European model
NE : North European model
AUS : Australian model
HK : Hong Kong model
CH : Chinese model
KR : Korea model
JE : Tourist model

— 4 —
DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20/HC20E
Make sure that the following accessories are supplied with your camcorder.
Checking supplied accessories.
Other accessories
3-087-936-11 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)
(HC20:US,CND,E,JE/HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP, UK/
HC20E:UK,E,HK,AUS,JE)
3-087-936-21 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (FRENCH)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20:CND/HC20E:AEP,E,JE)
3-087-936-31 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (GERMAN/DUTCH)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP)
3-087-936-41 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (SPANISH/PORTUGUESE)
(HC20:E,JE/HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP)
3-087-936-51 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (ITALIAN/GREEK)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP)
3-087-936-61 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (SWEDISH/RUSSIAN)
(HC16E:NE/HC18E:NE/HC20E:NE,JE)
3-087-936-71 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (DANISH/FINNISH)
(HC16E:NE/HC18E:NE/HC20E:NE)
3-087-936-81 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (POLISH/CZECH)
(HC16E:EE/HC18E:EE/HC20E:EE)
3-087-936-91 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (HUNGARIAN/SLOVAK)
(HC16E:EE/HC18E:EE/HC20E:EE)
3-087-937-11 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (ARABIC/PERSIAN)
(HC20E:E)
3-087-937-21 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)
(HC20:E/HC20E:HK)
3-087-937-31 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (SIMPLIFIED CHINESE)
(HC20E:E,CH,JE)
3-087-937-41 MANUAL (PC), INSTRUCTION (KOREAN)(HC20:KR,JE)
3-088-336-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)
(HC20:US,CND,E,HK,JE)
3-088-336-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH)(HC20:CND)
3-088-336-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH/PORTUGUESE)
(HC20:E,JE)
3-088-336-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)
(HC20:E)
3-088-336-51 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (KOREAN)(HC20:KR,JE)
3-088-336-61 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ARABIC)(HC20:E)
3-088-337-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP,UK/HC20E:AEP,UK,E,HK,AUS,JE)
3-088-337-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP,E)
3-088-337-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH/PORTUGUESE)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP)
3-088-337-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ITALIAN/GREEK)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP)
3-088-337-51 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (GERMAN/DUTCH)
(HC16E:AEP/HC18E:AEP/HC20E:AEP)
3-088-337-61 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SWEDISH/RUSSIAN)
(HC16E:NE/HC18E:NE/HC20E:NE,JE)
3-088-337-71 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (DANISH/FINNISH)
(HC16E:NE/HC18E:NE/HC20E:NE)
3-088-337-81 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ARABIC/PERSIAN) (HC20E:E)
3-088-337-91 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)
(HC20E:HK)
3-088-338-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SIMPLIFIED CHINESE)
(HC20E:E,CH,JE)
3-088-338-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (POLISH/CZECH)
(HC16E:EE/HC18E:EE/HC20E:EE)
3-088-338-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (HUNGARIAN/SLOVAKIAN)
(HC16E:EE/HC18E:EE/HC20E:EE)
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(AUS model)
0 1-696-819-21
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(AEP, EE, NE,
E:EXCEPT Saudi Arabia model)
0 1-769-608-11
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(KR model)
0 1-776-985-11
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(CH model)
0 1-782-476-13
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(UK, HK, E:Saudi Arabia
model)
0 1-783-374-11
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(US, CND model)
0 1-790-107-22
Power cord (Main lead) (1)
(JE model)
0 1-790-732-12
AC adaptor (1)
(AC-L25A/L25B)
0 1-477-534-11
Rechargeable battery pack (1)
(NP-FP50)
(not supplied)
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
(RMT-831)
1-477-898-71
Lid Battery
Case
(3-083-973-01)
A/V connecting cable
(1.5m) (1)
1-823-156-13
USB cable (1)
1-824-382-21
CD-ROM
(SPVD-012(V) USB Driver) (1)
(US,CND model)
3-086-790-01
CD-ROM
(SPVD-012 USB Driver) (1)
(EXCEPT US, CND model)
3-087-821-01
Shoe cover (1)
3-089-542-01
Cleaning cloth (1)
3-073-861-01
“Memory Stick Duo” (1)
(not supplied)
21-pin adaptor (1)
(AEP, UK, EE, NE model )
1-770-783-21
2-pin conversion adaptor (1)
(JE model)
1-569-007-12
2-pin conversion adaptor (1)
(E, HK model)
1-569-008-12
Memory Stick Duo adaptor (1)
(not supplied)
• Abbreviation
CND : Canadian model
EE : East European model
NE : North European model
HK : Hong Kong model
AUS : Australian model
CH : Chinese model
JE : Tourist model
KR : Korea model
Note :
The components identified by
mark 0or dotted line with mark
0are critical for safety.
Replace only with part number
specified.
Note :
Les composants identifiés par
une marque 0sont critiques
pour la sécurité.
Ne les remplacer que par une
pièceportant lenumérospécifié.

DCR-HC16E/HC18E/HC20/HC20E
—6 —
Sony EMCS Co. 2004B1600-1
©2004.2
Published by DI CS Strategy Div.
9-876-704-41

3-088-336-11(1)
© 2004 Sony Corporation
Camera
Operations Guide
Read this first
Digital Video Camera Recorder
DCR-HC20

2
Read this first
Before operating the unit, please read this
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future
reference.
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
Thissymbol is intended toalert the
user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of
sufficient magnitude to constitute
a risk of electric shock to persons.
This symbol is intended to alert the
user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the
appliance.
For customers in the U.S.A. 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.
Battery pack
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with
Canadian ICES-003.
For customers in the U.S.A.
If you have any questions about this product, you
may call:
Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-222-
SONY (7669)
The number below is for FCC related matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: DCR-HC20
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 680 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell,
NJ 07649 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 201-930-6972
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operationissubjecttothefollowingtwoconditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

3
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-HC
Serial No.
Model No.AC-
Serial No.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
bNote:
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.
– Increasethe separationbetweentheequipmentand
receiver.
– Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
– Consult a Sony dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
The supplied interface cable must be used with the
equipment in order to comply with the limits for a
digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of
FCC Rules.
Notes on use
Note on Cassette Memory
Your camcorder is based on the DV format. You can
use only mini DV cassettes in your camcorder. Use of
mini DV cassettes with Cassette Memory is
recommendedas youcanuseTitle search(p. 40),Date
search (p. 41), Photo search (p. 41), [TITLE] (p. 52),
[TAPE TITLE] (p. 54).
Cassettes with Cassette Memory are marked with
.
Notes on recording
• Before starting to record, test the recording function
to make sure the picture and sound are recorded
without any problems.
• Compensation for the contents of recordings cannot
be provided, even if recording or playback is not
possible due to a malfunction of the camcorder, etc.
• TV color systems differ depending on the countries/
regions. To view your recordings on a TV, you need
an NTSC system-based TV.
• Television programs, films, video tapes, and other
materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized
recording of such materials may be contrary to the
copyright laws.
Notes on the LCD panel, viewfinder, and
lens
• The LCD screen and the viewfinder are
manufactured using extremely high-precision
technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are
operational for effective use.
However, there may be some tiny black points and/
or bright points (white, red, blue, or green in color)
that appear constantly on the LCD screen and the
viewfinder.
These points are normal results of the manufacturing
process and do not affect the recording in any way.
• Exposing the LCDscreen,the viewfinder,orthe lens
to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause
malfunctions. Be careful when placing the camera
near a window or outdoors.
• Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause your
camcorder to malfunction. Take pictures of the sun
only in low light conditions, such as at dusk.
Note on connecting other device
Before connecting your camcorder to other device
such as a VCR or a computer with a USB or i.LINK
cable, be sure to insert the connector plug in the proper
direction. If you insert the connector plug forcibly in
the wrong direction, the terminal may be damaged, or
this may cause a malfunction of your camcorder.
Note on using this manual
• The images of the LCD screen and the viewfinder
used on this manual are captured using a digital still
camera, and thus may appear different from what
you see.
,continued

4
Notes on using the camcorder
• Hold your camcorder correctly.
• If the Strap Belt is too long, fasten the Strap Belt as
shown in the following illustration.
• You can also use the Strap Belt as a wrist strap. For
details on the Strap Belt, see page 94.
• When you are using the touch panel, place your hand
on the back side of the LCD panel to support it.
Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.
• Unavailable buttons will be grayed out.
• You can change the language to be used for screen
display on your camcorder (p. 20).
• Be careful not to press buttons beside the LCD
screen accidentally when you open or close the LCD
panel, or when you adjust the angle of the LCD
panel.
• Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts.
Touch the button on the LCD screen.
Viewfinder LCD panel
Battery pack

5
Read this first............................................................................................. 2
Quick Start Guide
Recording movies ...................................................................................... 8
Recording/Playing back with ease........................................................... 10
Getting started
Step 1: Checking supplied items.............................................................. 11
Step 2: Charging the battery pack............................................................ 12
Using an outside power source ................................................................................. 14
Step 3: Turning the power on................................................................... 15
Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder...................................... 16
Adjusting the LCD panel ........................................................................................... 16
Adjusting the viewfinder ............................................................................................ 16
Step 5: Setting the date and time............................................................. 17
Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape.............................................................. 19
Step 7: Setting the screen language........................................................ 20
Recording
Recording movies .................................................................................... 21
Recording for a longer time ....................................................................................... 22
Using zoom ............................................................................................................... 22
Recording in mirror mode ......................................................................................... 22
Using the self-timer ................................................................................................... 23
Recording still images – Tape photo recording........................................ 24
Recording with ease – Easy Handycam .................................................. 25
Adjusting the exposure............................................................................. 26
Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects ............................................................... 26
Fixing the exposure for the selected subject – Flexible spot meter .......................... 26
Adjusting the white balance manually ....................................................................... 27
Adjusting the exposure manually .............................................................................. 28
Recording in dark places – NightShot plus.............................................. 29
Adjusting the focus................................................................................... 29
Adjusting the focus for an off-center subject – SPOT FOCUS .................................. 29
Adjusting the focus manually .................................................................................... 30
Table of Contents
,continued

6
Recording a picture using various effects................................................ 31
Fading in and out of a scene – FADER .....................................................................31
Searching for the starting point................................................................ 32
Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording – END SEARCH .............32
Searching manually – EDIT SEARCH .......................................................................32
Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes – Rec review ....................................33
Playback
Viewing pictures recorded on a tape........................................................ 34
Playing back in various modes ..................................................................................35
Playing back with ease – Easy Handycam .............................................. 36
Various playback functions ...................................................................... 37
Displaying the screen indicators ................................................................................37
Displaying the date/time and camera settings data – Data code ..............................37
Playing the picture on a TV...................................................................... 39
Locating a scene on a tape for playback.................................................. 40
Searching quickly for a desired scene – Zero set memory ........................................40
Searching for a scene using Cassette Memory – Title search ..................................40
Searching for a scene by date of recording – Date search .......................................41
Searching for a still image – Photo search ................................................................41
Playing back still images in sequence – Photo scan .................................................42

7
Advanced operations
Customizing Your Cam-
corder
Changing the menu settings ..............43
Using the (MANUAL SET) menu
– PROGRAM AE/P EFFECT, etc.
......................................................44
Using the (CAMERA SET) menu
– D ZOOM/16:9WIDE, etc. ...........47
Using the (VCR SET) menu
– HiFi SOUND/AUDIO MIX ..........50
Using the (LCD/VF SET) menu
– LCD B.L./LCD COLOR/VF B.L.
......................................................51
Using the (CM SET) menu
– TITLE/TAPE TITLE/ERASE ALL,
etc. ...............................................52
Using the (TAPE SET) menu
– REC MODE/FRAME REC/
INT.REC, etc. ...............................55
Using the (SETUP MENU) menu
– CLOCK SET/USB STREAM/
LANGUAGE, etc. .........................58
Using the (OTHERS) menu
– WORLD TIME, etc. ...................60
Dubbing/Editing
Connecting to a VCR or TV ...............62
Dubbing to another tape ....................63
Recording pictures from a VCR .........63
Dubbing selected scenes from a tape
– Digital program editing ..............64
Dubbing sound to a recorded tape ....69
Creating DVDs or VCDs ....................71
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting .................................72
Warning indicators and messages .....78
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad ............81
Usable cassette tapes ........................82
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
......................................................83
About i.LINK .......................................85
Maintenance and precautions ............86
Specification .......................................89
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls .............91
Index ..................................................98
Refer also to other operating instructions
supplied with your camcorder:
• Editing images with your computer
cComputer Applications Guide

Quick Start Guide
8
Quick Start Guide
Recording movies
1Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder.
To charge the battery, see page 12.
2Insert a cassette into the camcorder.
Slide the battery pack in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
aSlide the OPEN/
ZEJECT lever in
the direction of the
arrow to open the lid.
The cassette compartment
comes out automatically.
bInsert the cassette with
its window-side facing
up, then push the center
of the back of the
cassette.
cPress .
Close the cassette lid after
the cassette compartment
slides back in by itself.
OPEN/ZEJECT lever Window-side

Quick Start Guide
Quick Start Guide
9
3Start recording while checking the subject on the LCD screen.
The date and time is not set up in the default setting. To set the date and time, see page 17.
4View the recorded picture on the LCD screen.
aSet the LENS COVER
switch to OPEN.
bOpen the LCD panel.
cWhile pressing the green
button, slide the POWER
switch down to light up
the CAMERA lamp.
The power turns on.
dPress REC START/STOP.
Recording starts. To change to
the standby mode, press REC
START/STOP again.
Youcan also recordby pressing
REC START/STOP beside the
LCD screen.
aSlide the POWER
switch repeatedly
until the PLAY/EDIT
lamp lights up.
bTouch (rewind).
cTouch (play) to
start the playback.
To stop, press (stop).
To turn off the power, slide the
POWER switch up to OFF
(CHG), then set the LENS
COVER switch to CLOSE.

Quick Start Guide
10
Recording/Playing back with ease
Byswitching toEasyHandycam operation,recording/playbackoperation
becomes even easier.
Easy Handycam operation allows easy recording/playback for even first
time users by providing only the basic functions for recording/playback.
For details, see instructions for each operation.
See page 25 for recording, page 36 for playback.
Press EASY when recording/
playing back.
EASY lights up in blue (a) and the
screen font size increases (b) during
Easy Handycam operation.
2
1

Getting started
Getting started
11
Getting started
Step 1: Checking
supplied items
Makesureyou have following itemssupplied
with your camcorder.
Thenumberinparenthesesindicatesthenumber
of that item supplied.
AC Adaptor (1)
Power cord (1)
Wireless Remote Commander (1)
A button-type lithium battery is already
installed.
A/V connecting cable (1)
USB cable (1)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FP50 (1)
CD-ROM “SPVD-012 USB Driver” (1)
Cleaning cloth (1)
Shoe cover (1)
Attached to the camcorder.
Camera Operations Guide (This manual)
(1)
Computer Applications Guide (1)

Getting started
12
Step 2: Charging the
battery pack
You can charge the battery by attaching the
“InfoLITHIUM”batterypack(Pseries)to
your camcorder.
bNotes
• You cannot use batteries other than the
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 83).
• Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor
or battery terminals with any metallic objects. This
may cause a malfunction.
• Use a nearby wall outlet when using the AC
Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall
outlet immediately if any malfunction occurs.
1Attach the battery pack by sliding it in
the direction of the arrow until it
clicks.
2With the vmark on the DC plug
facing down, connect the AC Adaptor
to the DC IN jack on your camcorder.
3Connect the power cord to the AC
Adaptor.
4Connect the power cord to the wall
outlet.
5Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and
charging starts.
After charging the battery
The CHG (charge) lamp turns off when the
battery is fully charged. Disconnect the AC
Adaptor from the DC IN jack.
To the wall outlet
DC plug
DC IN jack
Power cord
AC Adaptor
Battery pack
v mark
CHG (charge) lamp

Getting started
Getting started
13
To remove the battery pack
1Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
2Slidethebatterypackoutinthedirection
of the arrow while pressing the BATT
(battery) release button down.
bNote
• If you do not use the battery pack for a long time, use
up the battery pack completely before storing it. See
page 83 about storage of the battery pack.
Tochecktheremainingbattery–Battery
Info
Youcan checkthe battery’s currentcharge level
and its current remaining recording time both
during charging or when the power is turned off.
1Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG).
2Open the LCD panel.
3Press DSPL/BATT INFO.
The battery information appears for about 7
seconds.
Keep the button pressed to view it for about
20 seconds.
ABattery charge level: Displays
approximate remaining amount of
power left in the battery pack.
BApproximate possible recording time
using the LCD panel.
CApproximate possible recording time
using the viewfinder.
Charging time
Approximate number of minutes required when
you fully charge a fully dischargedbattery pack
at 25°C (77°F). (10 – 30°C (50 – 86°F)
recommended.)
Recording time whenrecordingwith the
LCD screen on
Approximate number of minutes available
when you use a fully charged battery pack at
25°C (77°F).
When LCD BACKLIGHT is set to ON
BATT (battery)
release button POWER
switch
Battery pack
POWER switch
DSPL/BATT INFO Battery pack
NP-FP50 (supplied) 125
NP-FP70 155
NP-FP90 220
Battery pack Continuous
recording
time
Typical*
recording
time
NP-FP50
(supplied) 110 60
NP-FP70 235 125
NP-FP90 415 225
BATTERY INFO
BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL
REC TIME AVAILABLE
LCD SCREEN
VIEWFINDER : :88 100 min min
0% 50% 100%
,continued

Getting started
14
When LCD BACKLIGHT is set to OFF
Recordingtime when recordingwith the
viewfinder
Approximate number of minutes available
when you use a fully charged battery pack at
25°C (77°F).
* Approximate number of minutes when recording
while you repeatedly record, start/stop, slide the
POWER switch to change the power mode, and
zoom. The actual battery life may be shorter.
Playing time
Approximate number of minutes available
when you use a fully charged battery pack at
25°C (77°F).
* With LCD BACKLIGHT set to ON.
bNotes
• The power will not be supplied from the battery pack
whenthe AC Adaptoris connectedtotheDC IN jack
of your camcorder, even if its power cord is
disconnected from the wall outlet.
• The recording and playback time will be shorter
when you use your camcorder in low temperature.
• The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging, or
the battery information will not be correctly
displayed in following conditions.
– The battery pack is not attached correctly.
– The battery pack is damaged.
– The battery pack is fully discharged. (For Battery
information only)
Using an outside power source
You can use the AC Adaptor as the power
source when you do not want the battery to
run out. While you are using theAC Adaptor,
the battery pack will not lose its charge even
when it is attached to your camcorder.
PRECAUTION
Even if your camcorder is turned off, the AC
power(house current)is still supplied toit while
connected to the walloutlet via the AC Adaptor.
Connect your camcorder as shown in
“Charging the battery pack” (p. 12).
Battery pack Continuous
recording
time
Typical*
recording
time
NP-FP50
(supplied) 125 65
NP-FP70 265 145
NP-FP90 475 260
Battery pack Continuous
recording
time
Typical*
recording
time
NP-FP50
(supplied) 125 65
NP-FP70 265 145
NP-FP90 475 260
Battery pack LCD panel
opened*LCD panel closed
NP-FP50
(supplied) 125 150
NP-FP70 265 310
NP-FP90 475 550

Getting started
Getting started
15
Step 3: Turning the
power on
You need to slide the POWER switch
repeatedly to select the desired power mode
to record or play.
When using this camcorder for the first time,
the CLOCK SET screen appears (p. 17).
1Set the LENS COVER switch to
OPEN.
2While pressing the green button, slide
the POWER switch down.
The power turns on.
To enter the recording or playing mode,
slide the switch repeatedly until the
respective lamp for the desired power mode
lights up.
• CAMERA: To record on a tape.
• PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch up to OFF (CHG),
then set the LENS COVER switch to CLOSE.
LENS COVER switch
POWER switch