Sony Handycam DCR-TRV940 User manual

SERVICE MANUAL
DIGITAL VIDEO CAMERA RECORDER
• INSTRUCTION MANUAL is shown at the end of this document.
Revision History
Revision History
LEVEL 1
Link
SELF DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION ORNAMENTAL PARTSSPECIFICATIONS
SELF DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION ORNAMENTAL PARTSSPECIFICATIONS
Link
J MECHANISM
Revision History
Revision History
Ver 1.0 2002. 05
DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
RMT-811
US Model
Canadian Model
DCR-TRV950
AEP Model
DCR-TRV940E/TRV950E
UK Model
DCR-TRV950E
East European Model
North European Model
Russian Model
DCR-TRV940E/TRV950E
E Model
DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
Hong Kong Model
DCR-TRV940/TRV950E
Australian Model
DCR-TRV950E
Chinese Model
DCR-TRV940E
Korea Model
DCR-TRV940
Tourist Model
DCR-TRV940/TRV940E
Photo: DCR-TRV950

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
—2 —
COVER
COVER
SPECIFICATIONS
SERIES
TM
Video camera
recorder
System
Video recording system
2 rotary heads
Helical scanning system
Audio recording system
Rotary heads, PCM system
Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 2 kHz,
stereo 1, stereo 2), 16 bits
(Fs 48 kHz, stereo)
Video signal
TRV940/TRV950:
NTSC color, EIA standards
TRV940E/TRV950E:
PAL color, CCIR standards
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
cassette DVM60)
SP: 1 hour
LP: 1.5 hours
Fastforward/rewind time (using
cassette DVM60)
When using the battery pack:
Approx. 2 min. and 0 seconds
When using the AC power
adaptor:
Approx. 1 min. and 45 seconds
Viewfinder
Electric viewfinder (color)
Image device
.8 mm (1/4.7 type) CCD
(Charge Coupled Device)
Gross: Approx. 1 070 000 pixels
Effective (still):
Approx. 1 000 000 pixels
Effective (moving):
Approx. 690 000 pixels
Lens
Combined power zoom lens
Filter diameter: 7 mm
(1 1/2 in)
12× (Optical), 150× (Digital)
F 1.6 – 2.8
Focal length
.6 – 4 .2 mm (5/ 2 – 1 /4 in.)
When converted to a 5 mm still
camera
In CAMERA
49 – 588 mm (1 15/16 – 2 1/4 in.)
In MEMORY
41 – 492 mm (1 5/8 – 19 /8 in.)
Input/Output connectors
S video input/output
TRV940/TRV950:
4-pin mini DIN
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p,
75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced
Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p,
75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced
TRV940E/TRV950E:
4-pin mini DIN
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p,
75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced
Chrominance signal: 0. Vp-p,
75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced
Audio/Video input/output
AV MINI JACK, 1 Vp-p,
75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced, sync
negative
27 mV, (at output impedance
more than 47 kΩ (kilohms))
Output impedance with less than
2.2 kΩ (kilohms)/Stereo minijack
(ø .5 mm)
Input impedance more than
47 kΩ (kilohms)
DV input/output
4-pin connector
Headphone jack
Stereo minijack (ø .5 mm)
LANC jack
Stereo mini-minijack (ø 2.5 mm)
USB jack
mini-B
MIC jack
Minijack, 0. 88 mV low impedance
with 2.5 to .0 V DC, output
impedance 6.8 kΩ (kilohms) (ø .5
mm)
Stereo type
LCD screen
Picture
8.8 cm ( .5 type)
72.2 × 50.4 mm (2 7/8 × 2 in.)
Total dot number
246 400 (1 120 × 220)
1)
Max. baud rate of Bluetooth
standard Ver.1.1
2)
Varies according to the distance
between communicating
devices, presence of obstacles,
radiowave conditions, and other
factors.
3)
This is a specification matched
to specific usage requirements
between Bluetooth compatible
devices. It is laid down in the
Bluetooth standards.
Battery pack
Maximum output voltage
DC 8.4 V
Output voltage
DC 7.2 V
Capacity
8.5 Wh (1 180 mAh)
Dimensions (approx.)
8.2 × 20.5 × 55.6 mm
(1 9/16 × 1 /16 × 2 1/4 in.)
(w/h/d)
Mass (approx.)
76 g (2.7 oz)
Type
Lithium ion
“Memory Stick”
Memory
Flash memory
8MB: MSA-8A
Operating voltage
2.7 – .6 V
Power consumption
Approx. 45 mA in the operating
mode
Approx. 1 0 µA in the standby
mode
Dimensions (approx.)
50 × 2.8 × 21.5 mm
(2 × 1/8 × 7/8 in.) (w/h/d)
Mass (approx.)
4 g (0.14 oz)
Design and specifications are
subject to change without notice.
Color temperature
Auto, nIndoor ( 200 K),
Outdoor (5 800 K),
Minimum illumination
7 lx (lux) (F 1.6)
Wireless communications
(DCR-TRV950/TRV950E only)
Communications system
Bluetooth standard Ver.1.1
Max. baud rate
1) 2)
Approx. 72 kbps
Output
Bluetooth standard Power Class 2
Communications distance
2)
Max. wireless distance
Approx. 10 m ( 9 /4 in.) (When
connecting to BTA-NW1/NW1A)
Compatible Bluetooth profile
3)
Generic Access Profile
Dial-up Networking Profile
Operating frequency band
2.4 GHz band (2.400 GHz –
2.48 5 GHz)
General
Power requirements
7.2 V (battery pack)
8.4 V (AC power adaptor)
Average power consumption
(when using the battery pack)
During camera recording using
LCD
TRV940/TRV950:
6. W
TRV940E/TRV950E:
6.0 W
Viewfinder
TRV940/TRV950:
4.9 W
TRV940E/TRV950E:
4.7 W
Operating temperature
0°C to 40°C ( 2°F to 104°F)
Storage temperature
–20°C to + 60°C
(–4°F to + 140°F)
Dimensions (Approx.)
9 × 99 × 202 mm
( /4 × 4 × 8 in.) (w/h/d)
Mass (Approx.)
DCR-TRV950/TRV950E:
970 g (2 lb 2 oz)
DCR-TRV940/TRV940E:
960 g (2 lb 1 oz)
main unit only
1.1kg (2 lb 6 oz)
including the battery pack
NP-FM50, cassette DVM60,
lens cap and Shoulder strap
AC power adaptor
Power requirements
100 – 240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
Power consumption
2 W
Output voltage
DC OUT: 8.4 V, 1.5 A in the
operating mode
Operating temperature
0°C to 40°C ( 2°F to 104°F)
Storage temperature
–20°C to + 60°C
(–4°F to + 140°F)
Dimensions (approx.)
125 × 9 × 62 mm
(5 × 1 9/16 × 2 1/2 in.) (w/h/d)
excluding projecting parts
Mass (approx.)
280 g (9.8 oz)
TRV940/TRV950:
excluding power cord
TRV940E/TRV950E:
excluding mains lead

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
—3 —
CAUTION
Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures
other than those specified herein may result in hazardous
radiation exposure.
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.
1. Check theareaofyour repair forunsoldered orpoorly-soldered
connections. Check theentire boardsurface forsolder splashes
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.
4. Look for parts which,through functioning, show obvious 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.
SAFETY CHECK-OUT
After correcting the original service problem, perform the following
safety checks before releasing the set to the customer.
Table for differences of function
Model DCR-TRV940 DCR-TRV940E DCR-TRV950 DCR-TRV950E
Destination E, HK, KR, JE AEP, EE, NE, US, CND, E AEP, UK, EE, NE,
RU, E, CH, JE RU, E, HK, AU
Color system NTSC PAL NTSC PAL
Wireless communications ✕✕aa
• Abbreviation
AUS : Australian model
CH : Chinese model
CND: Canadian model
EE : East European model
HK : Hong Kong model
JE : Tourist model
KR : Korean model
NE : North European model
RU : Russian model

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
SELF-DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION
COVER
COVER
—4 —
1. Self-diagnosis Function
When problems occur while the unit is operating, the self-diagnosis
function starts working, and displays on the viewfinder or Display
window what to do. This function consists of two display; self-
diagnosis display and service mode display.
Detailsofthe self-diagnosisfunctions are providedin theInstruction
manual.
2. Self-diagnosis Display
When problems occur while the unit is operating, the counter of the
viewfinder or Display window shows a 4-digit display consisting
ofanalphabet andnumbers,which blinksat 3.2 Hz.This 5-character
display indicates the “repaired by:”, “block”in which the problem
occurred, and “detailed code”of the problem.
3. Service Mode Display
The service mode display shows up to six self-diagnosis codes shown in the past.
3-1. Display Method
While pressing the “STOP”key, set the switch from OFF to “VCR”, and continue pressing the “STOP”key for 5 seconds continuously. The
service mode will be displayed, and the counter will show the backup No. and the 5-character self-diagnosis codes.
3-2. Switching of Backup No.
By rotating the control dial, past self-diagnosis codes will be shown in order. The backup No. in the [] indicates the order in which the
problem occurred. (If the number of problems which occurred is less than 6, only the number of problems which occurred will be shown.)
[1] : Occurred first time [4] : Occurred fourth time
[2] : Occurred second time [5] : Occurred fifth time
[3] : Occurred third time [6] : Occurred the last time
3-3. End of Display
Turning OFF the power supply will end the service mode display.
Order of previous errors
Backup No. Self-diagnosis Codes
C : 3 1 : 1 1
[3]
Lights up
Viewfinder
[3] C : 3 1 : 1 1
3 C : 3 1 : 11
Display window
1 1
3 1
C : 3 1 : 11
C
Repaired by:
Refer to “4. Self-diagnosis Code Table”.
Indicates the appropriate
step to be taken.
E.g.
31 ....Reload the tape.
32 ....Turn on power again.
Block Detailed Code
Blinks at 3.2Hz
C : Corrected by customer
H : Corrected by dealer
E : Corrected by service
engineer
Viewfinder Display window
C : 3 1 : 1 1
Note: The “self-diagnosis display”data will not be erased (reset) when the lithium 3 V supply (CK-116 board BT5201) is removed.
Display window
Control dial

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
— 5 —
4. Self-diagnosis CodeTable
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
E
E
E
E
E
E
Block
Function
04
21
22
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
20
61
61
62
62
91
Detailed
Code
00
00
00
10
11
20
21
22
23
24
30
40
42
10
11
20
21
22
23
24
30
40
42
00
00
10
00
01
01
Symptom/State
Non-standard battery is used.
Condensation.
Video head is dirty.
LOAD direction. Loading does not
complete within specified time
UNLOAD direction. Loading does not
complete within specified time
T reel side tape slacking when unloading .
Winding S reel fault when counting the
rest of tape.
T reel fault.
S reel fault.
T reel fault.
FG fault when starting capstan.
FG fault when starting drum.
FG fault during normal drum operations.
LOAD direction loading motor time-
out.
UNLOAD direction loading motor
time-out.
T reel side tape slacking when
unloading.
Winding S reel fault when counting the
rest of tape.
T reel fault.
S reel fault.
T reel fault.
FG fault when starting capstan.
FG fault when starting drum
FG fault during normal drum
operations
EEPROM data error
Difficult to adjust focus
(Cannot initialize focus.)
Zoom operations fault
(Cannot initialize zoom lens.)
Steadyshot function does not work well.
(Withpitch angularvelocitysensoroutput
stopped.)
Steadyshot function does not work well.
(With yaw angular velocity sensor output
stopped.)
Abnormalitywhen flash isbeing charged.
Self-diagnosis Code
Repaired by:
Correction
Use the info LITHIUM battery.
Remove the cassette, and insert it again after one hour.
Clean with the optional cleaning cassette.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Load the tape again, and perform operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Remove the battery or power cable, connect, and perform
operations from the beginning.
Initialize A, D page data (EEPROM data).
Inspect the lens block focus MR (Pin qf, qg of DB-014 board
CN1004)whenfocusing isperformed when thefocus ringisrotated
inthe focus manualmode, andthe focus motordrivecircuit(IC3402
of DB-014 board) when the focusing is not performed.
Inspect the lens block zoom MR ( Pin 0, qs of DB-014 board
CN1004 ) when zooming is performed when the zoom lens is
operated and the zoom motor drive circuit (IC3402 of DB-014
board) when zooming is not performed.
Inspect pitch angular velocity sensor (SE4001 of SE-132 board)
peripheral circuits.
Inspect yaw angular velocity sensor (SE4002 of SE-132 board)
peripheral circuits.
Checking of flash unit or replacement of flash unit.

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
—6 —
1. ORNAMENTAL PARTS
Note:
•Items marked “*”are not stocked since they are seldom required for routine service.
Some delay should be anticipated when ordering these items.
•The parts numbers of such as a cabinet are also appeared in this section.
Refer to the parts number mentioned below the name of parts to order.
COVER
COVER
Jack cover
3-065-290-11
(When change it, need
to dismantle the set.)
Microphone jack cover
3-076-276-01
(When change it, need to dismantle the set.)
Terminal cover assembly
X-3952-618-1
(When change it, need to dismantle the set.)
Hood assembly
X-3952-594-1
•Abbreviation
AUS : Australian model
CH : Chinese model
CND: Canadian model
EE : East European model
HK : Hong Kong model
JE : Tourist model
KR : Korean model
NE : North European model
RU : Russian model
Les composants identifiés par une
marque 0sont critiquens pour la
sécurité.
Ne les remplacer que par une pièce
portant le numéro spécifié.
The components identified by
mark 0or dotted line with mark
0are critical for safety.
Replace only with part number
specified.

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
—7 —
A/V connecting cable (1)
1-824-097-11
Checking supplied accessories.
Cleaning cloth (1)
3-073-861-01
USB cable (1)
1-757-294-11
Power cord (1)
01-575-131-11 (AEP, EE,
NE, RU)
01-696-819-11 (AUS)
01-769-608-11 (E)
01-776-985-11 (KR)
01-782-476-11 (CH)
01-783-374-11 (UK, HK)
01-790-107-22 (US, CND)
01-790-732-11 (JE)
AC adaptor (1)
AC-L10A
01-475-599-14 (EXCEPT
KR, CH)
01-475-599-73 (KR)
01-475-599-82 (CH)
Size AA (R6) battery
for remote commander (2)
NP-FM50 battery pack (1) Shoulder strap (1)
3-987-015-01
CD-ROM (1)
(SPVD-008 USB driver)
3-072-414-01 (EXCEPT US,
CND)
3-072-654-01 (US, CND)
“Memory Stick”
(8 MB) (1)
A-7024-735-A
Lens cap (1)
X-3952-595-1
Other accessories
01-569-007-11 ADAPTOR, CONVERSION (E, HK, JE)
01-569-008-21 ADAPTOR, CONVERSION 2P (E)
3-074-603-11 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR N/W (ENGLISH)
(TRV950: US)
3-075-396-11 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(ENGLISH, FRENCH)
(TRV950: CND,E/TRV950E: E, HK, AUS)
3-075-396-21 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)
(TRV950E: UK)
3-075-396-31 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(ENGLISH, DUTCH) (TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-396-41 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(FRENCH, GERMAN) (TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-396-51 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(ITALIAN, GREEK) (TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-396-61 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(SPANISH, PORTUGUESE) (TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-396-71 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(TRADITIONAL CHINESE)
(TRV950: E/TRV950E: HK)
3-075-396-81 MANUAL, NETWORK INSTRUCTION
(SIMPLIFIED CHINESE) (TRV950E: E)
3-075-494-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH)
(TRV940: E, HK, JE/TRV950)
3-075-494-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH) (TRV950: CND)
3-075-494-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH, PORTUGUESE)
(TRV940: E, JE/TRV950: E)
3-075-494-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)
(TRV940: E, HK/TRV950: E)
3-075-494-51 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ARABIC)
(TRV940: E/TRV950: E)
3-075-494-61 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (KOREAN)
(TRV940: KR, JE)
3-075-495-11 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH, FRENCH)
(TRV940E: E, CH, JE/TRV950E: UK, E, HK, AUS)
3-075-495-21 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (FRENCH, GERMAN)
(TRV940E: E, JE/TRV950E: AEP, E)
3-075-495-31 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ENGLISH, DUTCH)
(TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-495-41 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SPANISH, PORTUGUESE)
(TRV940E: AEP/TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-495-51 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ITALIAN, GREEK)
(TRV940E: AEP/TRV950E: AEP)
3-075-495-61 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (ARABIC, PERSIAN)
(TRV940E: E/TRV950E: E)
3-075-495-71 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (TRADITIONAL CHINESE)
(TRV950E: HK)
3-075-495-81 MANUAL, INSTRUCTION (SIMPLIFIED CHINESE)
(TRV940E: E, CH, JE/TRV950E: E)
3-053-056-01 COVER, BATTERY (for RMT-811)
Wireless remote commander
(1)
RMT-811
1-475-950-53
Stylus (1)
3-073-941-01 (TRV950/
TRV950E)
21-pin adaptor (1)
1-573-291-11 (AEP, UK, EE,
NE, RU)
The components identified by
mark 0or dotted line with
mark 0are critical for safety.
Replace only with part num-
ber specified.
Les composants identifiés par une
marque 0sont critiques pour la
sécurité.
Ne les remplacer que par une pièce
portant le numéro spécifié.

DCR-TRV940/TRV940E/TRV950/TRV950E
Sony EMCS Co. 2002E0500-1
©2002.5
Published by DI Customer Center
9-929-978-41 —8 —

3-075-494-11 (1)
©2002 Sony Corporation
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.
DCR-TRV940/TRV950
Digital
Video Camera
Recorder
Model No. DCR-TRV Model No. AC-
Serial No. Serial No.
SERIES
TM
DCR-TRV950

2
Welcome!
Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony Handycam. With your Handycam, you can
capture life’s precious moments with superior picture and sound quality. Your Handycam is
loaded with advanced features, but at the same time it is very easy to use. You will soon be
producing home video that you can enjoy for years to come.
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do
not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.
CAUTION
The use of optical instruments with this
product will increase eye hazard. As the laser
beam used in this Handycam is harmful to
eyes, do not attempt to disassemble the
cabinet.
Refer to servicing to qualified personnel only.
NOTICE
If static electricity or electromagnetism causes
data transfer to discontinue midway (fail),
restart the application or disconnect and
connect the USB cable again.
This symbol is intended to
alert 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
CAUTION
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH
WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT,
FULLY INSERT.
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.
DCR-TRV950 only
Countries and areas where you can use
network functions are restricted.
For details, refer to the separate Network
Operating Instructions.
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 the FCC related
matters only.
Regulatory Information
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: DCR-TRV950
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 680 Kinderkamack
Road, Oradell,
NJ07649 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 201-930-6972
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.

3
“Memory Stick”
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.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate
this equipment.
DCR-TRV950 only
IMPORTANT NOTE
To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance
requirements, the following antenna
installation and device operating
configurations must be satisfied: the antenna
has been installed by the manufacturer and no
changes can be made.
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. 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.
For customers in CANADA
“Memory Stick”
This Class B digital apparatus complies with
Canadian ICES-003.
DCR-TRV950 only
The term “IC:” before the radio certification
number only signifies that Industry Canada
technical specifications were met.

4
Recording moving pictures
or still images, and playing
them back
•Recording moving pictures on a
tape (p. 26)
•Recording still images on a tape
(p. 51)
•Playing back a tape (p. 39)
•Recording still images on a
“Memory Stick” (p. 46, 135)
•Recording moving pictures on a
“Memory Stick” (p. 153)
•Viewing still images recorded on a
“Memory Stick” (p. 165)
•Viewing moving pictures on a
“Memory Stick” (p. 168)
Capturing images on your
computer
•Viewing images recorded on a
“Memory Stick” using the USB cable
(p. 199, 203)
•Viewing moving pictures recorded on
tapes using the USB cable (p. 194)
•Capturing images on your computer
from your camcorder using the USB
cable (p. 196)
•Converting an analog signal to
digital to capture images onto your
computer (p. 204)
4
Main Features
Main Features

Getting Started
5
Main Features
Accessing the Internet, sending/
receiving your e-mail. For details,
refer to the Network Function
Operating Instructions supplied
with your camcorder. (DCR-
TRV950 only) (p. 205)
5
Other uses
Functions for adjusting the exposure in the recording mode
•BACK LIGHT (p. 34)
•SPOT LIGHT (p. 35)
•Recording images with the flash (p. 48, 139)
•PROGRAM AE (p. 67)
•Adjusting the exposure manually (p. 74)
•Flexible Spot Meter (p. 75)
Functions for giving images more impact
•Digital zoom (p. 31)
The default setting is OFF. (To zoom greater than 12×, select the digital zoom power in
D ZOOM in the menu settings.)
•Fader (p. 55)
•Picture effect (p. 58)
•Digital effect (p. 59)
•Titles (p. 119)
•MEMORY MIX (p. 148)
Functions for giving a natural appearance to your recordings
•Sports lesson (p. 67)
•Landscape (p. 67)
•Manual focus (p. 76)
•Spot Focus (p. 78)
Functions for use with recorded tapes
•END SEARCH/EDITSEARCH/Rec Review (p. 37)
•DATA CODE (p. 41)
•Tape PB ZOOM (p. 86)
•ZERO SET MEMORY (p. 88)
•TITLE SEARCH (p. 89)
•Digital program editing (p. 98, 160)
Accessing the Internet via a
Bluetooth compliant device
(DCR-TRV950 only)
Main Features

6
Table of contents
Main Features....................................... 4
Quick Start Guide
– Recording on a tape ............................ 8
– Recording on a “Memory Stick” ..... 10
Getting Started
Using this manual ................................. 12
Checking supplied accessories............ 14
Step 1 Preparing the power supply ... 15
Installing the battery pack............. 15
Charging the battery pack............. 16
Connecting to a wall outlet ........... 19
Step 2 Setting the date and time ........ 20
Step 3 Inserting a cassette ................... 23
Step 4 Using the touch panel .............. 24
Recording – Basics
Recording a picture............................... 26
Shooting backlit subjects
– BACK LIGHT ........................ 34
Shooting subjects lit by strong light
– SPOT LIGHT ......................... 35
Self-timer recording ....................... 36
Checking recordings
– END SEARCH /
EDITSEARCH / Rec Review ........ 37
Playback – Basics
Playing back a tape ............................... 39
To display the screen indicators
– Display function ................... 41
Viewing the recording on TV .............. 45
Advanced Recording
Operations
Recording still images on a “Memory
Stick” during tape recording ........ 46
Recording still images on a tape
– Tape Photo recording ................. 51
Using the wide mode ........................... 53
Using the fader ...................................... 55
Using special effects
– Picture effect................................. 58
Using special effects
– Digital effect ................................. 59
Presetting the adjustment for picture
quality
– Custom preset .............................. 62
Using the guide frame .......................... 64
Shooting with the zebra pattern ......... 65
Using the color bar................................ 66
Shooting with manual adjustment ..... 67
Using the PROGRAM AE ............. 67
Adjusting the shutter speed .......... 70
Adjusting the white balance ......... 72
Adjusting the exposure ................. 74
Using the spot light-metering
– Flexible Spot Meter ............... 75
Focusing manually................................ 76
Using the spot focus – Spot Focus ...... 78
Adjusting recording level manually
– Sound recording level ................. 79
Interval recording ................................. 81
Frame by frame recording
– Frame recording .......................... 83
Advanced Playback
Operations
Playing back tapes with picture
effect ................................................. 84
Playing back tapes with digital
effect ................................................. 85
Enlarging images recorded on tapes
– Tape PB ZOOM ........................... 86
Quickly locating a scene
– ZERO SET MEMORY ................. 88
Searching the boundaries of a recorded
tape by title – TITLE SEARCH ..... 89
Searching a recording by date
– DATE SEARCH ........................... 90
Searching for a photo – PHOTO
SEARCH/PHOTO SCAN ............. 92
Editing
Dubbing a tape ...................................... 95
Dubbing only desired scenes
– Digital program editing
(on tapes) ......................................... 98
Recording video or TV programs ..... 109
Inserting a scene from a VCR
– Insert Editing ............................. 113
Audio dubbing .................................... 115
Superimposing a title ......................... 119
Making your own titles ...................... 122
Labeling a cassette .............................. 124

Getting Started
7
Table of contents
“Memory Stick” Operations
Using a “Memory Stick”
– Introduction ............................... 126
Recording still images on a “Memory
Stick”
– Memory Photo recording ......... 135
Recording images from a tape as still
images ............................................ 144
Superimposing a still image in the
“Memory Stick” on an image
– MEMORY MIX .......................... 148
Recording moving pictures on
a“Memory Stick”
– MPEG movie recording ............ 153
Recording pictures from a tape as a
moving picture ............................. 156
Recording edited pictures from a tape as
a moving picture
– Digital program editing
(on a “Memory Stick”) ................. 160
Copying still images from a tape
– PHOTO SAVE ............................ 163
Viewing still images
– Memory photo playback .......... 165
Viewing moving pictures
– MPEG movie playback ............. 168
Copying images recorded on a
“Memory Stick” to a tape ............ 171
Enlarging still images recorded on a
“Memory Stick”
– Memory PB ZOOM ................... 173
Playing back images in a continuous
loop – SLIDE SHOW .................... 175
Preventing accidental erasure
– Image protection........................ 176
Deleting images – DELETE ............... 177
Writing a print mark
– PRINT MARK ............................ 180
Using the optional printer ................. 181
Viewing Images Using your
Computer
Viewing images on your computer
– Introduction ............................... 183
Connecting your camcorder to your
computer using the USB cable
– For Windows users ................... 186
Viewing images recorded on a tape on
your computer
– For Windows users ................... 194
Viewing images recorded on a
“Memory Stick” on your computer
– For Windows users ................... 199
Connecting your camcorder to your
computer using the USB cable
– For Macintosh users .................. 201
Viewing images recorded on a
“Memory Stick” on your computer
– For Macintosh users .................. 203
Capturing images from an analog video
unit on your computer
– Signal convert function............. 204
Using the Network function
(DCR-TRV950 only)
Accessing the network ....................... 205
For the details, refer to the Network
Function Operating Instructions
supplied with your camcorder.
Customizing Your Camcorder
Changing the default settings with the
menu............................................... 207
Troubleshooting
Types of trouble and how to correct
trouble ............................................ 218
Self-diagnosis display......................... 225
Warning indicators and messages .... 226
Additional Information
Usable cassettes ................................... 228
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack ................................................ 231
About i.LINK ....................................... 233
Using your camcorder abroad .......... 235
Maintenance information and
precautions .................................... 236
Specifications ....................................... 242
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls........... 244
Index ..................................................... 254

Quick Start Guide
8
Inserting a cassette (p. 23)
Connecting the power cord (p. 19)
Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 15).
1Slide OPEN/Z
EJECT in the
direction of the
arrow to open the
lid.
2Insert the cassette
straight as far as
possible into the
cassette compartment
with the window
facing out and the
write-protect tab
facing upward.
3Close the cassette
compartment by
pressing on the
cassette compartment.
After the cassette
compartment goes
down completely,
close the lid until it
clicks.
This chapter introduces you to the basic features to recorded
pictures on tapes of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses
“( )” for more information.
AC power adaptor (supplied)
Connect the plug with its v
mark facing up.
Open the DC
IN jack cover.
Write-protect tab
Quick Start Guide – Recording on a tape

Quick Start Guide
9
REW
PLAY
POWER
OFF(CHG)
CAMERA
MEMORY/
NETWORK
VCR
POWER
OFF(CHG)
CAMERA
MEMORY/
NETWORK
VCR
POWER
OFF(CHG)
CAMERA
MEMORY/
NETWORK
VCR
Recording a picture (p. 26)
1Remove the lens cap.
3Press OPEN to open
the LCD panel.
The picture appears
on the screen.
2Set the POWER
switch to CAMERA
while pressing the
small green button.
4Press START/STOP.
Your camcorder
starts recording. To
stop recording, press
START/STOP again.
Monitoring the playback picture on the LCD
screen (p. 39)
NOTE
Do not pick up your
camcorder by holding the
viewfinder, the flash, the LCD
panel or the battery pack.
When you purchase your camcorder, the clock setting is set to off. If you want to record
the date and time for a picture, set the clock setting before recording (p. 20).
Viewfinder
When the LCD panel is closed, use the viewfinder with your eye
against the eyecup.
Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight (p. 30).
1Set the POWER switch
to VCR while pressing
the small green button.
2Press mto rewind the tape.
3Press Nto start playback.

Quick Start Guide
10
This chapter introduces you to the basic features to record on a
“Memory Stick” of your camcorder. See the page in parentheses
“( )” for more information.
Press the MEMORY
EJECT once lightly to
eject it.
Connecting the power cord (p. 19)
Use the battery pack when using your camcorder outdoors (p. 15).
Open the DC IN
jack cover.
Connect the plug with its v
mark facing up.
AC power adaptor (supplied)
1Slide MEMORY
OPEN in the
direction of the arrow
to open the “Memory
Stick” slot.
2Insert a “Memory
Stick” in the
“Memory Stick” slot
as far as it can go
with the Bmark
facing up as
illustrated.
“Memory Stick” slot
MEMORY EJECT
Inserting a “Memory Stick” (p. 128)
Quick Start Guide – Recording on a “Memory Stick”

Quick Start Guide
11
PLAY PB
POWER
OFF(CHG)
CAMERA
MEMORY/
NETWORK
VCR
POWER
OFF(CHG)
CAMERA
MEMORY/
NETWORK
VCR
Recording a still image on a “Memory Stick” (p. 135)
When you purchase your camcorder, the clock setting is set to off. If you want to record
the date and time for a picture, set the clock setting before recording (p. 20).
NOTE
Do not pick up your
camcorder by holding the
viewfinder, the flash, the LCD
panel or the battery pack.
Monitoring the playback still images on the LCD
screen (p. 165)
1Set the POWER switch to
MEMORY/NETWORK
(DCR-TRV950 only)
or VCR while pressing the
small green button.
2Press PLAY or PB. The last recorded
image is displayed.
1Remove the lens cap.
3Press OPEN to open
the LCD panel.
The picture appears on
the screen.
Viewfinder
When the LCD panel is closed, use the viewfinder with your eye
against the eyecup.
Adjust the viewfinder lens to your eyesight (p. 30).
2Set the POWER switch to
MEMORY/NETWORK
(DCR-TRV950 only)
while pressing the small
green button.
4Press PHOTO
lightly.
You can start
recording when the
small green button
on the screen stops
flashing, and lights
up.
5Press PHOTO
deeper.
The image while
pressing the
button deeply is
recorded on the
“Memory Stick.”
or

12
— 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-TRV950 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-TRV950
only”.
As you read through this manual, buttons and settings on your camcorder are shown in
capital letters.
e.g. Set the POWER switch to CAMERA.
When you carry out an operation, you can hear a beep to indicate that the operation is
being carried out.
Types of differences
DCR- TRV940 TRV950
Mark on the POWER switch MEMORY MEMORY/NETWORK
Network function — z
zProvided
—Not provided
Note on Cassette Memory
Your camcorder is based on the DV format. You can use only mini DV cassettes with
your camcorder. We recommend that you use a tape with cassette memory .
Functions that require different operations depending on whether or not the tape has a
cassette memory are:
–END SEARCH (p. 37)
–DATE SEARCH (p. 90)
–PHOTO SEARCH (p. 92)
Functions you can operate only with the cassette memory are:
–TITLE SEARCH (p. 89)
–Superimposing a title (p. 119)
–Labeling a cassette (p. 124)
For details of cassette types, see page 228.
You see this mark in the introduction of features that are operated only with
cassette memory.
Cassettes with cassette memory are marked by (Cassette Memory).