User manual SONY HVR-Z1

2-514-606-11(1) Digital HD Video Camera Recorder HVR-Z1U/Z1N Digital HD Video Camera Recorder Operating Instructions Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. HVR-Z1U/Z1N © 2005 Sony Corporation Read this first WARNING To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA HVR-Z1U only 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 1-800-8228837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/ Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries. 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. If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800-686SONY (7669) The number below is for the FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information Declaration of Conformity Trade Name: SONY Model No.: HVR-Z1U Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc. Address: 16450 W. Bernardo Dr, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A. Telephone No.: 858-942-2230 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. 2 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.HVRSerial No. Model No.ACSerial No. Notes on use Your camcorder is capable of recording in HDV, DVCAM, and DV formats. When recording in HDV/DV format, it is recommended to use mini DV cassettes. When recording in DVCAM format, it is recommended to use mini DVCAM cassettes. The HDV standards · Digital high-definition (HD) video signals are recorded and played back on a DV format cassette. · HDV signals are compressed in MPEG2 format, which is adopted in BS (broadcast satellite) digital and terrestrial digital HDTV broadcastings and in Blu-ray disc recorders. z Tip · Your camcorder adopts the HDV1080i specification, which utilizes 1080 effective scanning lines, within the HDV standards, and records pictures at the image bit rate of about 25 Mbps. The i.LINK Interface is adopted as the digital interface enabling a digital connection with TVs and personal computers compatible with the HDV format. CAUTION You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment. b 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 to an outlet on a circuit different from that into which the receiver is connected. ­ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The interface cable supplied 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. 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, storage media, etc. · TV color systems differ depending on the country/ region. 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. 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 LCD screen, the viewfinder, or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time may cause ,continued 3 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. · Do not hold the camcorder by the following parts. Playing back HDV tapes on other devices A tape recorded in the HDV format cannot be played back on a device that is not compatible with the HDV format. Check the contents of tapes by playing them back on this camcorder prior to playing them back on other devices. Viewfinder Connecting other devices Before connecting your camcorder to other device such as a VCR or a computer with an 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. LCD panel 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. · The illustrations of the screen are those of when [50i/ 60i SEL] on the (OTHERS) menu is set to 60i. Battery pack Microphone Using the camcorder · To ensure a good grip, fasten the grip belt as shown in the following illustration. Jack holder · You can change the language to be used for screen display on your camcorder (p. 19). 4 Table of Contents Read this first ............................................................................................. 2 Quick Start Guide Recording movies ...................................................................................... 8 Getting started Step 1: Checking supplied items.............................................................. 10 Step 2: Charging the battery pack............................................................ 11 Using an outside power source ................................................................................. 13 Step 3: Turning the power on................................................................... 14 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder...................................... 15 Adjusting the LCD panel ........................................................................................... 15 Adjusting the viewfinder ............................................................................................ 15 Step 5: Setting the date and time............................................................. 16 Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape.............................................................. 18 Step 7: Setting the screen language ........................................................ 19 Recording Recording movies .................................................................................... 20 Usable cassettes ....................................................................................................... 22 Using zoom ............................................................................................................... 22 Recording in mirror mode ......................................................................................... 24 Displaying the recording setup information ­ Status check ...................................... 24 Adjusting the exposure............................................................................. 25 Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects ............................................................... 25 Recording the subject lit by strong light ­ SPOTLIGHT ............................................ 26 Adjusting the white balance ...................................................................................... 26 Recording using manual adjustments ...................................................... 28 Adjusting the iris ........................................................................................................ 28 Adjusting the gain ..................................................................................................... 29 Adjusting the shutter speed ...................................................................................... 30 Adjusting the volume of light ­ ND FILTER .............................................................. 30 Displaying the zebra pattern to adjust the brightness ............................................... 31 Adjusting the focus................................................................................... 32 Adjusting the focus manually .................................................................................... 32 Enhancing the outline to focus ­ PEAKING .............................................................. 34 ,continued 5 Customizing the picture quality ­ PICTURE PROFILE ............................ 34 Customizing the sound............................................................................. 37 Adjusting the audio recording level ­ Microphone volume level ................................ 37 Connecting external audio sources ........................................................................... 38 Selecting the recording channel ................................................................................ 39 Recording a picture using various features.............................................. 40 Developing scenes smoothly ­ Shot transition .......................................................... 40 Revising a specific color ­ Color Correction .............................................................. 42 Fading in and out of a scene ­ FADER ..................................................................... 44 Recording an index signal at the beginning of recording ........................................... 44 Recording on a device connected via an i.LINK cable ­ External REC Control....................................................................... 45 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes ­ Rec Review ................. 47 Playback Viewing movies ........................................................................................ 48 Playing back in various modes .................................................................................. 49 Various playback functions ...................................................................... 50 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording ­ END SEARCH ............. 50 Displaying the screen indicators ................................................................................ 50 Displaying the date/time and camera settings data ­ Data code .............................. 51 Displaying the video information ­ Status check ....................................................... 51 Playing the picture on a TV ...................................................................... 52 Viewing the picture on a high definition TV ............................................................... 52 Viewing the picture on a 16:9 TV or a 4:3 TV ............................................................ 54 Locating a scene on a tape for playback.................................................. 55 Searching for a scene by date of recording ­ Date search ....................................... 55 Searching for a recording start point ­ Index search ................................................. 56 6 Advanced operations Using the Menu Selecting menu items .........................57 Using the (CAMERA SET) menu ­ STDYSHOT TYP/FRAME REC, etc. ...............................................58 Using the (AUDIO SET) menu ­ INT MIC SET/XLR SET, etc. .....64 Using the (LCD/VF SET) menu ­ LCD COLOR, etc. .....................68 Using the (IN/OUT REC) menu ­ REC FORMAT/DOWN CONVERT, etc. ...............................................70 Using the (TC/UB SET) menu ­ TC MAKE, etc. ..........................76 Using the (OTHERS) menu ­ CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME, etc. ...............................................78 Customizing Personal Menu ..............83 Assigning the functions ......................86 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting ...............................106 Warning indicators and messages ...111 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad ..........113 HDV format and recording/playback 114 Compatibility of the DVCAM and DV formats .......................................116 About the "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack ............................................117 About i.LINK .....................................119 Maintenance and precautions ..........120 Specification .....................................123 Quick Reference Identifying parts and controls ...........125 Index ................................................133 Dubbing/Editing Dubbing to another tape ....................89 Recording pictures from a VCR or TV ............................................93 Connecting to a computer ..................96 Dubbing sound to a recorded tape ..........................................98 Setting time values ..........................101 Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder ­ Signal conversion function .......................................104 Note on the icons used in this manual Features available for the HDV format only. Features available for the DVCAM format only. Features available for the DV SP format only. Features available only when [50i/60i SEL] of the menu is set to [50i]. Features available only when [50i/60i SEL] of the menu is set to [60i]. 7 Quick Start Guide Recording movies 1 Attach the charged battery pack to the camcorder. To charge the battery, see page 11. Press the battery pack and slide it down. Battery Pack 2 Insert a cassette into the camcorder. b Insert the cassette with its window-side facing out, then push the center of the back of the cassette. a Slide the OPEN/ EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow to open the lid. The cassette compartment comes out automatically. c Press on the cassette compartment. Close the cassette lid after the cassette compartment slides back in by itself. OPEN/EJECT lever Window-side 8 Quick Start Guide 3 Start 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 16. The pictures are recorded in the HDV format in the default setting. To record in the DVCAM or DV format, see page 20. a Open the hood shutter. b Open the LCD panel and adjust the angle. Quick Start Guide c While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch to CAMERA. d Press REC START/STOP. Recording starts. To change to standby mode, press REC START/STOP again. 4 View the recorded picture on the LCD screen. a While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch to VCR. b Press m (rewind). c Press N (play) to start the playback. To stop, press x (stop). To turn off the power, set the POWER switch to OFF. Quick Start Guide 9 Getting started Large eyecup (1) To attach it to your camcorder, see page 16. Step 1: Checking supplied items Make sure you have following items supplied with your camcorder. The number in parentheses indicates the number of that item supplied. AC Adaptor/charger (1) Wireless Remote Commander (1) A/V connecting cable (1) Power cord (1) Component video cable (1) Connecting cord (DK-415) (1) Shoe adaptor (1) To attach it to your camcorder, see page 130. Lens hood (1) This is attached to your camcorder. Rechargeable battery pack NP-F570 (1) Size AA (R6) batteries (2) To insert the batteries in the Remote Commander, see page 131. Cleaning cassette (1) b Note · If you attach an optical filter (optional) or so, remove the lens hood. Shoulder strap (1) To attach it to your camcorder, see page 126. Operating Instructions (This manual) (1) 10 Getting started Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the battery by attaching the "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack (L series) to the AC Adaptor/charger. b Note · You cannot use batteries other than the "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack (L series) (p. 117). · Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor/ charger with any metallic objects. This may cause a malfunction. · Use a nearby wall outlet when using the AC Adaptor/charger. Disconnect the AC Adaptor/ charger from the wall outlet immediately if any malfunction occurs. 4 While pressing the battery back down, slide it in the direction of the arrow. The charge lamp lights up and charging starts. When the battery was successfully charged The battery mark on the display window will light up in the shape of a full battery ( ) that indicates that the battery has been sufficiently charged for use. If you continue charging until the CHARGE lamp turns off and FULL appears on the display window, the battery has now been fully charged and can be used for a little longer period. Remove the battery pack from the AC Adaptor/ charger. Getting started To the wall outlet To attach the battery pack to the camcorder Press the battery pack and slide it down. Power cord Battery pack Charge lamp Mode switch Display window AC Adaptor/charger To remove the battery pack 1 2 3 Set the mode switch to CHARGE. Connect the power cord to the AC Adaptor/charger. Connect the power cord to the wall outlet. 1 Set the POWER switch to OFF. ,continued Getting started 11 2 Press BATT RELEASE and slide the battery pack up. C Possible recording time using the viewfinder. To check the remaining battery ­ Battery Info Charging time Approximate number of minutes required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack using the supplied AC Adaptor/charger at 25°C (77°F). (10 ­ 30°C (50 ­ 86°F) recommended.) Battery pack NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 NP-F970 Full charge (Practical charge) 145 (85) 230 (170) 310 (250) b Note · NP-F330/F530/500/510/710 battery packs cannot be used with your camcorder. Recording time You can check the battery's current charge level and its current remaining recording time when the power is turned off. The remaining recording time in the selected recording format appears. Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25°C (77°F). Recording in the HDV format Battery pack Continuous Typical recording recording time time 105 115 115 220 245 235 335 370 360 55 60 60 120 120 120 185 190 190 1 Set the POWER switch to OFF. 2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the angle. NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 3 Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO. The battery information appears for about 7 seconds. Keep the button pressed to view it for about 20 seconds. NP-F970 Recording in the DVCAM/DV SP format BATTERY INFO BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL 0% 50% 100% Battery pack Continuous recording time NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 110 125 120 235 255 250 Typical recording time 60 60 60 130 130 130 REC T I ME AVA I LABLE LCD SCREEN: 1 0 5 min V I EWF I NDER: 1 1 5 min A Battery charge level: Displays approximate remaining amount of power left in the battery pack. B Possible recording time using the LCD panel. 12 Getting started Battery pack Continuous recording time NP-F970 355 385 380 Typical recording time 195 200 200 * With the LCD BACKLIGHT switch set to ON. b Note · Figures are those of 60 Hz. They may be slightly longer at 50 Hz. · The recording and playback time will be shorter when you use your camcorder in low temperature. · The battery life will be slightly shorter when you use both of the LCD panel and the viewfinder than when you use only the LCD panel. · The battery information will not be correctly displayed when the battery pack is discharged. · The top figures show an approximate number of minutes when the LCD BACKLIGHT switch is set to ON, and [VF POWER] is set to [OFF]. · The middle figures show an approximate number of minutes when the LCD BACKLIGHT switch is set to OFF, and [VF POWER] is set to [OFF]. · The bottom figures show an approximate number of minutes when recording with the viewfinder. · "Typical recording time" means an approximate number of minutes that you can record using external microphones 1 and 2, and you repeatedly start/stop recording, move the POWER switch to change the power mode, and zoom. The actual battery life may be shorter. z Tip · You can also use NP-F550/F730/F750/F960 battery packs. After charging these battery packs, make a trial recording with them before an actual recording to see the recording time. The recording time varies depending on the environment where the camcorder is used. Press DISPLAY/BATT INFO to display the recording time on the screen. Getting started Using an outside power source You can use the AC Adaptor/charger as the power source when you do not want the battery to run out. PRECAUTION Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power (house current) is still supplied to it while connected to the wall outlet via the AC Adaptor/ charger. To the wall outlet Playing time Approximate number of minutes available when you use a fully charged battery pack at 25°C (77°F). HDV format pictures Battery pack LCD panel opened* NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 NP-F970 155 325 485 Power cord AC Adaptor/ charger LCD panel closed 175 Mode switch 365 550 DVCAM/DV SP format pictures Battery pack LCD panel opened* NP-F570 (supplied) NP-F770 NP-F970 175 365 550 LCD panel closed 200 410 Connecting cord (DK-415) 625 ,continued Getting started 13 1 Set the mode switch to VCR/ CAMERA. No power will be supplied if the mode switch is set to CHARGE. Step 3: Turning the power on You need to set the POWER switch to the respective power mode to record or play back pictures. When using this camcorder for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 16). While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch. The power turns on. 2 Attach the connecting cord (DK-415) to the camcorder. Press the attaching part of the connecting cord (DK-415), and slide it down. 3 4 5 Connect the connecting cord (DK-415) to the AC Adaptor/charger. Connect the power cord to the AC Adaptor/charger. Connect the power cord to the wall outlet. · CAMERA: To record pictures. · VCR: To play or edit pictures. To turn off the power Set the POWER switch to OFF. 14 Getting started Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder Adjusting the LCD panel z Tip · If you rotate the LCD panel until it faces down, you can close and restore the LCD panel to the original position with the LCD screen facing out. · If you are using the battery pack for power source, you can select the brightness by setting [LCD BL LEVEL] on the [LCD/VF SET] menu (p. 68). · When you use your camcorder in bright conditions using the battery pack, set the LCD BACKLIGHT switch to OFF ( appears). This position saves battery power. · Even if you change the brightness of the LCD panel, the brightness of recorded pictures is not affected. Getting started You can adjust the angle and brightness of the LCD panel to meet various recording situations. Even when there are obstructions between you and the subject, you can check the subject on the LCD screen during recording by adjusting the angle of the LCD panel. Adjusting the viewfinder You can view images using the viewfinder when you close the LCD panel. Use the viewfinder when the battery is running out, or when the screen is hard to see. Viewfinder lens adjustment lever 180 degrees Up to about 100 degrees Open the LCD panel 180 degrees, then rotate it to the desired position. 1 2 Lift up the viewfinder. Adjust the viewfinder lens adjustment lever until the picture is clear. To adjust the brightness of the LCD screen Adjust the brightness by pressing LCD BRIGHT ­ or +. Getting started 15 When the picture in the viewfinder is hard to see If you cannot see the picture in the viewfinder clearly under bright circumstances, use the supplied large eyecup. To attach the large eyecup, stretch it a little and align it with the groove of the viewfinder, then slide it up to the end. You can attach the large eyecup facing either the right or left side. Step 5: Setting the date and time Set the date and time when using this camcorder for the first time. If you do not set the date and time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears every time you turn on your camcorder. b Note · If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time settings may be cleared from the memory. In that case, charge the rechargeable battery (p. 122) and then set the date and time again. Large eyecup (supplied) z Tip · To select the brightness of the viewfinder backlight when you are using the battery pack, select the (LCD/VF SET) menu, then [VF B.LIGHT] (p. 68). · To display the picture on both the LCD panel and the viewfinder during recording, select the (LCD/ VF SET) menu, [VF POWER], then [ON] (p. 69). · To display the picture in black and white on the viewfinder, select the (LCD/VF SET) menu, [VF COLOR], then [OFF] (p. 69). POWER switch 1 2 Turn on your camcorder (p. 14). Open the LCD panel and adjust the angle. Proceed to step 6 when you set the clock for the first time. 16 Getting started 3 Press MENU. CAMERA SET WB PRESET WB OUTDR LV L GA I N SETUP SHOT TRANS COLOR CORRCT STEADYSHOT STDYSHOT TYP [ MENU ] : END When [50i/60i SEL] on the (OTHERS) menu is set to 50i, the clock is displayed in 24-hour display. 4 Select the (OTHERS) menu by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. OTHERS RETURN ASS I GN BTN CLOCK SET WORLD T I ME LANGUAGE QU I CK REC BEEP REC LAMP [ MENU ] : END Getting started 5 Select [CLOCK SET] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. 1 2 0min CLOCK SET 2005 Y JAN M 1 D 12 : 00 AM [ MENU ] : CANCEL 6 Set [Y] (year) by turning the SEL/ PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. 1 2 0min CLOCK SET 2005 Y JAN M 1 D 12 : 00 AM [ MENU ] : CANCEL You can set any year up to the year 2079. 7 Set [M] (month), [D] (day), hour and minute in the same way as was done in step 6, then press the dial. When [50i/60i SEL] on the (OTHERS) menu is set to 60i, the clock is displayed in 12-hour display: 12:00:00AM is midnight and 12:00:00PM is midday. Getting started 17 Step 6: Inserting a cassette tape For the information about the type of cassette you can use with your camcorder, and details on these cassettes (such as write-protection, etc.), see page 114. b Note · Do not force the cassette into the compartment. This may cause a malfunction of your camcorder. 2 Insert a cassette with its window-side facing out. Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly. Window-side 1 Slide the OPEN/EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. 3 Press on the cassette compartment. The cassette compartment automatically slides back in. OPEN/EJECT lever Lid 4 Close the lid. To eject the cassette 1 Slide the OPEN/EJECT The cassette compartment automatically comes out and opens up. lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid. The cassette compartment automatically comes out. . The cassette compartment automatically slides back in. 2 Take out the cassette, then press 3 Close the lid. 18 Getting started Step 7: Setting the screen language You can select the language to be used on the LCD screen. 5 Select [LANGUAGE] by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Select the desired language by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Press MENU to hide the menu screen. 6 7 Getting started z Tip · Your camcorder offers [ENG [SIMP]] (simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue among the options. POWER switch 1 2 3 4 Turn on your camcorder. Open the LCD panel and adjust the angle. Press MENU. Select the (OTHERS) menu by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. OTHERS RETURN ASS I GN BTN CLOCK SET WORLD T I ME LANGUAGE QU I CK REC BEEP REC LAMP [ MENU ] : END STBY Getting started 19 Recording 3 Recording movies You can record movies in HDV, DVCAM, and DV formats, in addition to either 50i or 60i system. Before recording, follow steps 1 to 7 in "Getting started" (p. 10 - p. 19). Movies will be recorded along with stereo sound. Camera recording lamp Format lamps While pressing the green button, set the POWER switch to CAMERA. appears on the LCD screen. The HDV format lamp lights up and your camcorder is set to recording standby after a while. Your camcorder is set to record using the 1080/60i specification of the HDV format in the default setting. To record using the 1080/50i specification (PAL system), see "To record using the 1080/50i specification (PAL system)" below. To record in the DVCAM/DV format, see "To record in the DVCAM/DV format" below. Camera recording lamp POWER switch and REC START/STOP 4 Press REC START/STOP. Recording starts. [REC] appears on the LCD screen and the Camera recording lamps light up. Press REC START/STOP again to stop recording. 1 Open the shutter of the lens hood. To record using the 1080/50i specification (PAL system) Change the setting of [50i/60i SEL] on the (OTHERS) menu (p. 82). Recording in DVCAM/DV will be done also using the 50i (PAL) system. 2 Open the LCD panel and adjust the angle. To record in the DVCAM/DV format To record in the DVCAM format On the (IN/OUT REC) menu, set [REC FORMAT] to [DV], and [ REC MODE] to [DVCAM] (p. 71). When the menu screen is turned off, appears on the LCD screen, the DVCAM format lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to recording standby. 20 Recording To record in the DV format On the (IN/OUT REC) menu, set [REC FORMAT] to [DV], and [ REC MODE] to [DV SP] (p. 71). When the menu screen is turned off, appears on the LCD screen, the DVCAM format lamp lights up, and your camcorder is set to recording standby. Indicators displayed during recording The indicators will not be recorded on the tape. The camera settings data (p. 51) will not be displayed during recording. 6 0min HDV1080i ND REC 00:00:00:00 6 0min To turn the power off Set the POWER switch to OFF. 1 To record from a low-angle Use the REC START/STOP button on the handle after releasing the HOLD lever. To view the picture during recording, face the LCD panel or the viewfinder upward, or face the LCD screen down, then close and restore the LCD panel to the original position with the LCD screen facing out. HOLD lever CH1 CH2 Recording A Recording format (HDV1080i, DVCAM, or DV SP) B Remaining battery The indicated time may not be correct, depending on the environment where you are using your camcorder. When you open or close the LCD panel, it takes about 1 minute to display the correct remaining battery time. C 50i/60i system indicator (p. 82) D Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording)) E Time code or user bits The time code of this camcorder can be preset. You can reset or preset the time code even during recording (p. 101). F Recording capacity of the tape (p. 80) G Microphone volume level (p. 37) H ND filter If [ND1] or [ND2] flashes on the screen, activate the ND filter (p. 30). b Note · Before changing the battery pack, set the POWER switch to OFF. · When the camcorder is left in recording standby for more than about 3 minutes, your camcorder exits the recording standby mode (the drum stops rotating) to prevent tape wear and battery loss. Since the power does not turn off, you can restart recording by pressing REC START/STOP again. It takes some time to restart recording, but this not a malfunction. When recording in the HDV format, you can shorten the time until recording starts by setting [QUICK REC] on the (OTHERS) menu to [ON] (p. 78). ,continued Recording 21 However, the transition from the last recorded scene may not be smooth. · The following functions may not work correctly with a tape recorded in the HDV, DVCAM, and DV formats mixed: ­ Date search ­ Index search z Tip · You can record the color bars on a tape. If you record movies including the color bars, you can adjust the color while observing the color bars when you are viewing the pictures on a TV or monitor. To display the color bars, press BARS. Press BARS again to hide the color bars. There are 2 types of color bar. You can select either one in [BARS TYPE] on the (CAMERA SET) menu (p. 62). · To ensure smooth transition on a tape from the last recorded scene to the next, note the following. ­ Do not remove the cassette. (The picture will start recording again without an obvious break even if you turn the power off). ­ Do not record pictures in the HDV, DVCAM, and DV formats on the same tape. ­ Do not record pictures in the system of 50i and 60i on the same tape. · You can superimpose the time and date on the picture by setting [DATE REC] on the (OTHERS) menu (p. 81). The time and date are always displayed on the screen during recording. · The recording time, date, and the camera settings data are recorded automatically on the tape without being displayed on the screen. You can view this information during playback by pressing DATA CODE (p. 51). · To display the time data, press TC/U-BIT (p. 103). · To attach an external microphone (optional), see page (p. 38). time will be 1/3 shorter than that indicated on the tape. Using zoom Zoom levers are mounted on the camera itself and on the handle. Occasional use of the zoom is effective, but use it sparingly for the best results. 1 cm (approx. 1/2 inch)* 80 cm (approx. 2 5/8 feet)* * The minimum distance required between your camcorder and the subject to get a sharp focus with that side of the lever. Usable cassettes 1 2 Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/ REMOTE. Press the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Press it further for a faster zoom. When recording in HDV/DV format, it is recommended that you use mini DV cassettes. When recording in DVCAM format, it is recommended that you use mini DVCAM cassettes. b Note · The transition from the last recorded scene to the next may not be smooth with the [DV SP] setting. · You cannot record in the LP mode of the DV format. · If you use a mini DV cassette when [ REC MODE] is set to [DVCAM], the possible recording 22 Recording To record a wider range of view Press the W side of the power zoom lever. The subject appears farther away (Wide angle). To record a closer view Press the T side of the power zoom lever. The subject appears closer (Telephoto). b Note · You cannot adjust the zoom speed by pressing the handle zoom lever. Change the zoom speed by setting [HANDLE ZOOM] (p. 62). · You cannot use the handle zoom lever when the handle zoom switch is set to OFF. · You cannot change the zoom speed of the power zoom lever on the camera itself by switching the handle zoom switch. z Tip · You can display the zoomed position with a number or a bar display. Select [BAR] or [NUMBER] in [ZOOM DISPLAY] on the (OTHERS) menu (p. 80). The zoom position is displayed with a bar display in the default setting. Using the zoom ring You can zoom at the desired speed. Fine adjustment is also possible. 1 Set the ZOOM switch to RING. 2 Rotate the zoom ring to zoom. Recording b Note · Rotate the zoom ring at an appropriate speed. Zooming may not be able to catch up the rotating speed of the ring if it is rotated too fast. · When you zoom using the Remote Commander, set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/REMOTE. · Zoomed position and picture angle change when the ZOOM switch is switched from LEVER/REMOTE to RING. · If you rotate the zoom ring fast, motor noise will become louder as the zoom motor rotates at high speeds. If the motor noise is so loud that can be recorded, use the zoom lever or the Remote Commander. Using the handle zoom You can adjust the zoom speed with the handle zoom switch when using the handle zoom lever. Handle zoom lever Handle zoom switch Zoom ring 1 Set the ZOOM switch to LEVER/ REMOTE. 2 Set the handle zoom switch to H (high) or L (low). You can set the zoom speed of H or L of the handle zoom lever in [HANDLE ZOOM] on the (CAMERA SET) menu. In the default setting, [H] is set to 6, and [L] is set to 3 (p. 62). 3 Press the handle zoom lever to zoom in or out. Recording 23 Recording in mirror mode Displaying the recording setup information ­ Status check You can check the setup value of the following items in the standby mode or during recording. · Audio setup such as microphone volume level (p. 37) · Output setup ([COMPONENT], [i.LINK CONV], and [DOWN CONVERT] settings) (p. 73) · Functions assigned to the ASSIGN buttons (p. 86) · CAMERA setting · Picture profile setup (p. 34) You can turn the LCD panel towards the subject so that you and your subject can share the image being recorded. You can also utilize this function when recording yourself, or to keep the attention of small children attracted to the camcorder while you record them. Up to about 100 degrees Open the LCD panel 180 degrees, then rotate it towards the subject until it clicks. A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded. 1 2 Press STATUS CHECK. Turn the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial to display the desired item. Each time you turn the dial, the items appear in the following order: AUDIO t OUTPUT t ASSIGN t CAMERA t PICT. PROFILE 24 Recording To turn off the display of the recording setup information Press STATUS CHECK. b Note · Information of the picture profile setup does not appear when it is set to [OFF]. Adjusting the exposure The exposure is adjusted automatically in the default setting. If you want to record brighter or darker pictures than those of the auto exposure adjustment, use the manual adjustment function (p. 28), or customize the picture quality by using the PICTURE PROFILE function (p. 34). Recording Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects When your subject has its back to the sun or other light, you can adjust the exposure to prevent the subject from becoming shadowed. Assign the BACK LIGHT function to one of the ASSIGN buttons in advance. See page 86 for details on how to assign a function. ASSIGN 1 ­ 6 Press the ASSIGN button assigned to the BACK LIGHT function. . appears. To cancel the back light function, press the button again. ,continued Recording 25 b Note · The back light function is canceled when you press the ASSIGN button assigned to SPOTLIGHT. · You cannot use the back light function if 2 or more items out of iris, gain, and shutter speed are adjusted manually. Adjusting the white balance Recording the subject lit by strong light ­ SPOTLIGHT When the subject is lit by strong light, such as in a theater, use the spotlight function to prevent people's faces from appearing excessively white. Assign the SPOTLIGHT function to one of the ASSIGN buttons in advance. See page 86 for details on how to assign a function. You can adjust the white balance according to the light of the recording environment. The white balance adjustment data for 2 different recording conditions can be set up and memorized separately in memory A and B. During recording, you can recall the setup data from the memory with the WHT BAL (white balance) switch. The setup data will be retained for about 3 months as long as it is not readjusted even if the power is disconnected. (one-push) WHT BAL ASSIGN 1 ­ 6 During recording or in the standby mode, press the ASSIGN button assigned to the SPOTLIGHT function. appears. To cancel the spotlight function, press the button again. 1 During recording or in the standby mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to the center position to release the auto lock mode. Press WHT BAL. Set the WHT BAL switch to A or B. Shoot a white subject such as a piece of paper filling the entire screen under b Note · The spotlight function is canceled when you press the ASSIGN button assigned to BACK LIGHT. · You cannot use the spotlight function if 2 or more items out of iris, gain, and shutter speed are adjusted manually. 2 3 4 26 Recording the same lighting condition as that of the subject. 5 Select the desired item by turning the SEL/PUSH EXEC dial, then press the dial. Item [OUTDOOR] ( ) 5 Press (one-push) WHT BAL. Recording scene · general night views, neon signs, or fireworks · sunset, sunrise · under daylight fluorescent lamps · at party or in studios where lighting conditions change quickly · under video lamps such as those in a studio, under sodium lamps, mercury lamps, or warm white fluorescent lamps A or B flashes quickly. When the white balance is adjusted, A or B lights up and the adjustment data is memorized. [INDOOR] (n) To recall adjustment data from the memory 1 During recording or in the standby mode, set the AUTO LOCK switch to the center position to release the auto lock mode. Recording 2 Set the WHT BAL switch to A or B. 3 Press WHT BAL. The white balance is set to the recalled adjustment. b Note · Avoid subjecting your camcorder to mechanical shock while A or B is flashing. · If A or B does not change from flashing to lit steadily, your camcorder is unable to set up the white balance. In this case, use the preset or automatic white balance.