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© 2008 Sony Corporation
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
DCR-HC51E/HC52E/
HC53E/HC54E
Getting Started 9
Recording/
Playback
17
Using the Menu 28
Dubbing/Editing 43
Using a Computer 47
Troubleshooting 51
Additional Information 58
Quick Reference 68
2
Read this first
Before operating the unit, please read this
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future
reference.
To reduce fire or shock hazard, do
not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.
Do not expose the batteries to
excessive heat such as sunshine,
fire or the like.
Replace the battery with the
specified type only. Otherwise, fire
or injury may result.
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
WARNING
CAUTION
For customers in the U.S.A.
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: DCR-HC52E
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA
92127 U.S.A.
Telephone number: 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.
CAUTION
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
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.
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: DCR-HC54E
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA
92127 U.S.A.
Telephone number: 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.
3
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.
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.
A moulded plug complying with BS 1363 is
fitted to this equipment for your safety and
convenience.
Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to
be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the
supplied one and approved by ASTA or
BSI to BS 1362 (i.e., marked with an or
mark) must be used.
If the plug supplied with this equipment has
a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach
the fuse cover after you change the fuse.
Never use the plug without the fuse cover.
If you should lose the fuse cover, please
contact your nearest Sony service station.
ATTENTION
The electromagnetic fields at the specific
frequencies may influence the picture and sound
of this unit.
This product has been tested and found compliant
with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for
using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8
feet).
Notice
If static electricity or electromagnetism causes
data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart
the application or disconnect and connect the
communication cable (i.LINK, etc.) again.
Notice for the customers in the
countries applying EU Directives
The manufacturer of this product is Sony
Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku Tokyo, 108-
0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for
EMC and product safety is Sony Deutschland
GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61,70327 Stuttgart,
Germany. For any service or guarantee matters
please refer to the addresses given in separate
service or guarantee documents.
Disposal of Old Electrical &
Electronic Equipment
(Applicable in the European
Union and other European
countries with separate
collection systems)
This symbol on the product or on its
packaging indicates that this product shall
not be treated as household waste. Instead it
shall be handed over to the applicable
collection point for the recycling of
electrical and electronic equipment.
By ensuring this product is disposed of
correctly, you will help prevent potential
negative consequences for the environment
and human health, which could otherwise
be caused by inappropriate waste handling
of this product. The recycling of materials
will help to conserve natural resources.
For more detailed information about
recycling of this product, please contact
your local Civic Office, your household
waste disposal service or the shop where
you purchased the product.
Notice for customers in the
United Kingdom
FOR CUSTOMERS IN EUROPE
Continued ,
4
Disposal of waste batteries
(applicable in the European
Union and other European
countries with separate
collection systems)
This symbol on the battery or on the
packaging indicates that the battery
provided with this product shall not be
treated as household waste. By ensuring
these batteries are disposed of correctly,
you will help prevent potentially negative
consequences for the environment and
human health which could otherwise be
caused by inappropriate waste handling of
the battery. The recycling of the materials
will help to conserve natural resources. In
case of products that for safety,
performance or data integrity reasons
require a permanent connection with an
incorporated battery, this battery should be
replaced by qualified service staff only. To
ensure that the battery will be treated
properly, hand over the product at end-of-
life to the applicable collection point for the
recycling of electrical and electronic
equipment. For all other batteries, please
view the section on how to remove the
battery from the product safely. Hand the
battery over to the applicable collection
point for the recycling of waste batteries.
For more detailed information about
recycling of this product or battery, please
contact your local Civic Office, your
household waste disposal service or the
shop where you purchased the product.
About the manuals supplied with your
camcorder
“Operating Guide” (This manual)
For DCR-HC53E/HC54E
“First Step Guide” for connecting the
camcorder to a computer and using the
supplied software (stored on the supplied
CD-ROM)
Type of cassette you can use in your
camcorder
You can use mini DV cassettes marked
with . Your camcorder is not
compatible with the Cassette Memory
function (p. 59).
Using the camcorder
Do not hold the camcorder by the
following parts.
The camcorder is not dustproof, dripproof
or waterproof.
See “On use and care” (p. 62).
When connecting your camcorder to
another device with communication
cables, be sure to insert the connector plug
in the correct way.
Pushing the plug forcibly into the terminal
Notes on use
LCD panel
Battery packViewfinder
Read thid first (Continued)
5
will damage the terminal and may result
in a malfunction of your camcorder.
About menu items, LCD panel,
viewfinder, and lens
A menu item that is grayed out is not
available under the current recording or
playback conditions.
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 malfunctions.
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.
About the language setting
The on-screen displays in each local
language are used for illustrating the
operating procedures. Change the screen
language before using your camcorder if
necessary (p. 14).
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, storage
media, etc.
TV color systems differ depending on the
country/region. To view your recordings
on a TV, you need a PAL 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.
About this manual
The images of the LCD screen and the
viewfinder used in this manual for
illustration purposes are captured using a
digital still camera, and therefore may
appear different.
The illustrations used on this manual are
based on the model DCR-HC54E. The
model name is indicated on the bottom of
your camcorder.
Design and specifications of recording
media and accessories are subject to
change without notice.
About the Carl Zeiss lens
Your camcorder is equipped with a Carl
Zeiss lens, which was developed jointly by
Carl Zeiss, in Germany, and Sony
Corporation, and produces superior images.
It adopts the MTF* measurement system for
Black point
White, red, blue
or green point
Continued ,
6
video cameras and offers a quality typical
of a Carl Zeiss lens.
* MTF stands for Modulation Transfer
Function. The number value indicates the
amount of light from a subject coming into
the lens.
Read thid first (Continued)
7
Table of Contents
Read this first ..................................2
Notes on use ................................. 4
Step 1: Checking supplied items
.......................................................9
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
.....................................................10
Step 3: Turning the power on and
setting the date and time ............13
Changing the language setting
................................................... 14
Step 4: Making setting adjustments
before recording ..........................15
Step 5: Inserting a Cassette .........16
Easy Recording/Playback
(Easy Handycam) .......................17
Recording .....................................19
Zooming ...................................... 20
Recording in dark places
(NightShot plus) ........................ 20
Adjusting the exposure for backlit
subjects .................................... 21
Recording in mirror mode ........... 21
Playback .......................................22
Using the guide functions
(USAGE GUIDE) ........................23
Searching for the starting point ..... 24
Searching for the last scene of the
most recent recording
(END SEARCH) ........................ 24
Searching manually
(EDIT SEARCH) ........................ 24
Reviewing the most recently
recorded scenes
(Rec review) ............................. 24
Playing the picture on a TV ..........26
Using the menu items .......... 28
Operation button items .................29
Menu items ...................................36
MANUAL SET menu .............37
– P EFFECT
CAMERA SET menu ............38
– D ZOOM/WIDE SEL/
STEADYSHOT, etc.
PLAYER SET/
VCR SET menu ....................39
– AUDIO MIX
LCD/VF SET menu ...............40
– LCD B.L./LCD COLOR/VF B.L., etc
TAPE SET menu ..................41
– REC MODE/AUDIO MODE/
REMAIN
SETUP MENU menu ............41
– USB STREAM/LANGUAGE, etc.
OTHERS menu .....................42
– WORLD TIME, etc.
Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD
recorders .....................................43
Recording pictures from a VCR, etc.
(DCR-HC52E/HC54E) .................45
What you can do with Windows
computer (DCR-HC53E/54E) ......47
Installing the “First Step Guide” and
software (DCR-HC53E/54E) .......48
Viewing “First Step Guide” (DCR-
HC53E/54E) ................................50
Troubleshooting ............................51
Warning indicators and messages
.....................................................56
Getting Started
Recording/Playback
Using the Menu
Dubbing/Editing
Using a Computer
Troubleshooting
Continued ,
8
Using your camcorder abroad ...... 58
Maintenance and precautions ...... 59
Usable cassette tapes ................ 59
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack .......................................... 60
About i.LINK ................................ 61
On using your camcorder ........... 62
Specifications ............................... 65
Identifying parts and controls ....... 68
Indicators displayed during
recording/playback ..................... 71
Index ............................................ 74
Additional Information
Quick Reference
Table of Contents (Continued)
9
Getting Started
Getting Started
Step 1: Checking supplied items
Make sure that you have following items
supplied with your camcorder.
The number in the parentheses indicates the
number of that item supplied.
AC Adaptor (1) (p. 10)
Power cord (Mains lead) (1) (p. 10)
A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 26, 43)
USB cable (1)
(DCR-HC53E/HC54E) (p. 69)
Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH30 (1)
(p. 10, 60)
CD-ROM “Handycam Application
Software” (1) (DCR-HC53E/54E)(p. 47)
Operating Guide (This manual) (1)
10
Step 2: Charging the battery pack
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack (H series) (p. 60) after
attaching it to your camcorder.
b Notes
You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack other than the H series to your camcorder.
1 Align the terminals of the battery
pack and your camcorder 1, then
attach the battery pack and click
it into place 2.
2 Slide the POWER switch in the
direction of the arrow to
OFF(CHG) (The default setting).
3 With the v mark on the DC plug
facing down, connect the AC
Adaptor to the DC IN jack on your
camcorder.
4 Connect the power cord (mains
lead) to the AC Adaptor and the
wall outlet (wall socket).
The CHG (charge) lamp lights up and
charging starts. The CHG (charge) lamp
turns off when the battery is fully
charged. Disconnect the AC Adaptor
from the DC IN jack.
b Notes
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN
jack holding both the camcorder and the DC
plug.
1
2
4
3
1
2
Battery pack
DC IN jack
To the wall outlet (wall socket)
Power cord (Mains lead)
With the v mark facing
down
POWER switch
AC Adaptor
CHG (charge) lamp
11
Getting Started
To use an outside power source
You can operate your camcorder using the
power from the wall outlet (wall socket) by
making the same connections as you do
when charging the battery pack. The battery
pack will not lose its charge in this case.
To remove the battery pack
1 Turn off the power, then press PUSH.
2 Remove the battery pack in the direction
of the arrow.
When storing the battery pack
Fully discharge the battery before storing it
for an extended period (p. 60).
To check the remaining battery
(Battery Info)
Set the POWER switch to OFF(CHG), then
press DISP/BATT INFO.
After a while, the approximate recordable
time and battery information appear for
about 7 seconds. You can view the battery
information for up to 20 seconds by
pressing DISP/BATT INFO again while the
information is displayed.
You can check the remaining battery charge
on the LCD screen.
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when
you fully charge a fully discharged battery
pack.
2
1
POWER switch
PUSH
Indicator Status
Sufficient power remaining
Battery low, recording/
playback will stop soon.
Replace the battery with a
fully charged one, or charge
the battery.
Battery pack Charging time
NP-FH30 (supplied) 115
NP-FH50 135
NP-FH70 170
NP-FH100 390
BATTERY INFO
BATTERY CHARGE LEVEL
REC TIME AVAILABLE
LCD SCREEN
VIEWFINDER
:
:
85
99
min
min
0% 50% 100%
Remaining battery (approx.)
Recording capacity (approx.)
Continued ,
12
Recording time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
* Typical recording time shows the time when
you repeat recording start/stop, turning the
power on/off and zooming.
b Notes
All times measured under the following
conditions:
Top: Recording with LCD screen.
Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the
LCD panel closed.
Playing time
Approximate time (min.) available when
you use a fully charged battery pack.
On the battery pack
Before changing the battery pack, slide the
POWER switch to OFF(CHG).
The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during
charging, or the Battery Info (p. 11) will not be
correctly displayed under the following
conditions.
The battery pack is not attached correctly.
The battery pack is damaged.
The battery pack is worn-out (for Battery Info
only).
The power will not be supplied from the battery
as long as the AC Adaptor is connected to the
DC IN jack of your camcorder, even when the
power cord (mains lead) is disconnected from
the wall outlet (wall socket).
On the charging/recording/playback time
Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C
(77 °F). (10 °C to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is
recommended.)
The recording and playback time will be shorter
when you use your camcorder in low
temperatures.
The recording and playback time will be shorter
depending on the conditions under which you
use your camcorder.
On the AC Adaptor
Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) when
using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC
Adaptor from the wall outlet (wall socket)
immediately if any malfunction occurs while
using your camcorder.
Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow
space, such as between a wall and furniture.
Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC
Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic
objects. This may cause a malfunction.
Even if your camcorder is turned off, AC power
(house current) is still supplied to it while
connected to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the
AC Adaptor.
Battery pack
Continuous
recording
time
Typical
recording
time*
NP-FH30
(supplied)
95 45
110 55
NP-FH50 155 75
180 90
NP-FH70 330 165
395 195
NP-FH100 760 380
890 445
Battery pack
LCD panel
opened
LCD panel
closed
NP-FH30
(supplied)
105 135
NP-FH50 170 220
NP-FH70 370 465
NP-FH100 845 1065
Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued)
13
Getting Started
Step 3: Turning the power on and 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 or change the POWER switch
position.
1 While pressing the green button,
slide the POWER switch in the
direction of the arrow to turn on
the respective lamp.
CAMERA: To record on a tape.
PLAY/EDIT: To play or edit pictures.
The [CLOCK SET] screen appears.
2 Set [Y] (year) with / .
You can set any year up to the year
2079.
3 Move to [M] (month) with ,
then set with / .
4 Move to [D] (day) with , then
set with / and repeat
for the hour and minute.
5 Make sure the date and time
settings are correct, then touch
.
The clock starts.
To turn off the power
Slide the POWER switch to OFF(CHG).
To reset the date and time
You can set the desired date and time by
touching t [PAGE2] t [CLOCK
SET] (p. 28).
b Notes
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 and then set the
date and time again (p. 65).
At the time of purchase, the power is set to turn
off automatically if you leave your camcorder
without any operation attempted for
approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power
([A.SHUT OFF], p. 42).
z Tips
The date and time are not displayed while
recording, but they are automatically recorded
on the tape, and can be displayed during
playback (see page 33 for [DATA CODE]
(During Easy Handycam operation, you can set
only [DATE/TIME])).
If the buttons on the touch panel do not work
correctly, adjust the touch panel
(CALIBRATION) (p. 63).
POWER switch
Touch the button
on the LCD screen.
CLOCK SET
YMD
OK
2008 11--
:
00
0
Continued ,
14
You can change the on-screen displays to
show messages in a specified language.
Touch t [MENU] t
(SETUP MENU) t [ LANGUAGE],
then select the desired language.
Changing the language setting
Step 3: Turning the power on and setting the date and time (Continued)
15
Getting Started
Step 4: Making setting adjustments before
recording
Slide the LENS COVER switch to OPEN.
After recording, set the LENS COVER
switch to CLOSE, to close the lens cover.
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the
camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best
angle to record or play (2).
b Notes
Do not press the buttons on the LCD frame
accidentally when you open or adjust the LCD
panel.
z Tips
If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the
lens side, you can close the LCD panel with the
LCD screen facing out. This is convenient
during playback operations.
See [LCD BRT] (p. 33) to adjust the brightness
of the LCD screen.
Press DISP/BATT INFO to toggle the screen
indicators (such as Battery Info) on or off.
You can view pictures using the viewfinder
to avoid wearing down the battery, or when
the picture seen on the LCD screen is poor.
z Tips
You can adjust the brightness of the viewfinder
backlight by selecting (LCD/VF SET) -
[VF B.L.] (p. 40).
Fasten the grip belt and hold your
camcorder correctly.
Opening the lens cover
The LCD panel
2
2
1
180 degrees
(max.)
90 degrees
(max.)
90 degrees to the
camcorder
DISP/BATT INFO
The viewfinder
The grip belt
Viewfinder lens
adjustment lever
Move it until the picture
is clear.
Viewfinder
2
1
4
3
16
Step 5: Inserting a Cassette
You can use mini DV cassettes only
(p. 59).
1 Slide and hold the OPEN/
EJECT lever in the direction of the
arrow and open the lid.
The cassette compartment automatically
comes out and opens up.
2 Insert a cassette with its window
facing outwards, then press
.
The cassette compartment
automatically slides back in.
b Notes
Do not force the cassette
compartment closed by pressing the
portion marked while
it is sliding in. It may cause a
malfunction.
3 Close the lid.
To eject the cassette
Open the lid following the same procedure
as described in step 1 and remove the
cassette.
z Tips
The recordable time varies depending on [REC
MODE] (p. 41).
OPEN/EJECT lever
Lid
Window
Push the center of the back
of the cassette lightly.
Cassette compartment
{DO NOT PUSH}
17
Recording/Playback
Recording/Playback
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam)
With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally
adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy
viewing.
1 Slide the POWER switch A in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn
on the CAMERA lamp.
2 Press EASY C.
3 Press REC START/STOP B (or E) to start recording.*
* During Easy Handycam operation, you can only record in the SP mode.
Recording
A
B
E
DC
Open the lens cover (p. 15)
If the POWER switch A is set to OFF(CHG),
slide it while pressing the green button.
EASY
appears on the screen D.
A
0:00:00
REC
FN
GUIDE
60 min
The indicator (A) changes from [STBY] to
[REC]. To stop recording, press REC START/
STOP again.
Continued ,
18
Slide the POWER switch A in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on
the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the buttons on the screen D as follows.
x To cancel Easy Handycam operation
Press EASY C again. disappears from the screen D.
x Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam operation
Touch to display adjustable menu settings. See page 28 for details on setting.
Almost all the settings return to their defaults automatically (p. 36).
Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add any effects or settings to the images.
x Unavailable button during Easy Handycam
During Easy Handycam operation, the . (back light) button (p. 21) is unavailable. [Invalid
during Easy Handycam operation.] appears if an attempted operation is not available in Easy
Handycam mode.
Playback
A
CB
D
A GUIDE (p. 23)
B Stop
C Play/Pause toggles as you touch it
D Rewind/Fast forward
Touch , then touch to
start playback.
If the POWER switch is
set to OFF(CHG), slide it
while pressing the green
button.
Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam) (Continued)
19
Recording/Playback
Recording
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly
to turn on the CAMERA lamp.
Press REC START/STOP A (or B).
To stop recording, press REC START/STOP A (or B) again.
Open the lens cover (p. 15).
REC START/STOP B
POWER switch
REC START/
STOP A
If the POWER switch is set to OFF(CHG), slide it
while pressing the green button.
[STBY] [REC]
Continued ,
20
You can magnify images up to 40 times the
original size with the power zoom lever or
the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.
Move the power zoom lever slightly for a
slower zoom. Move it further for a faster
zoom.
b Notes
[STEADYSHOT] may not reduce image
blurring as desired when the power zoom lever
is set to the T (Telephoto) side.
Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom
lever. If you move your finger off the power
zoom lever, the operation sound of the power
zoom lever may also be recorded.
You cannot change the zoom speed with the
zoom buttons on the LCD frame.
The minimum possible distance between
camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide
angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for
telephoto.
z Tips
You can set [D ZOOM] (p. 38) if you want to
zoom to a level greater than 40 ×.
Set the NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch to ON.
( and [“NIGHTSHOT PLUS”] appear.)
b Notes
The NightShot plus function uses infrared light.
Therefore, do not cover the infrared port with
your fingers or other objects. Remove the
conversion lens (optional) if it is attached.
Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 29)
when it is hard to focus automatically.
Do not use the NightShot plus function in bright
places. This may cause a malfunction.
Zooming
Close view: (Telephoto)
Wider range of view:
(Wide angle)
Recording in dark places
(NightShot plus)
Infrared port
Recording (Continued)
21
Recording/Playback
To adjust the exposure for backlit subjects,
press . (back light) to display .. To
cancel the backlight function, press .
(back light) again.
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the
camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees
to the lens side (2).
z Tips
A mirror-image of the subject appears on the
LCD screen, but the image will be normal when
recorded.
Adjusting the exposure for
backlit subjects
Recording in mirror mode
22
Playback
Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly
to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
Start playing back.
Touch to rewind the tape to the desired point, then touch to start playback.
* Playback automatically stops if pause is engaged for more than 3 minutes.
To adjust the volume
Touch t [PAGE1] t [VOL], then / to adjust the volume.
To search for a scene during playback
Touch and hold / during playback (Picture Search), or / while fast
forwarding or rewinding the tape (Skip Scan).
z Tips
You can play back in various modes ([V SPD PLAY], p. 33).
If the POWER switch is set to OFF(CHG), slide it
while pressing the green button.
Stop
Play/Pause* toggles as you touch it
Rewind/Fast forward
23
Recording/Playback
Using the guide functions (USAGE GUIDE)
You can easily select the desired setting
screens by using the guide functions
(USAGE GUIDE).
Your camcorder has 2 guide functions as
shown below.
1 Touch [GUIDE].
2 Select the desired item.
e.g., to record night views
Touch [SHOOT GUIDE] t [SELCT
SCENE] t [PAGE r]/[PAGE R] to
display [To keep the mood of a night
view].
3 Touch [SET].
The desired setting screen appears.
Adjust the settings according to your
purpose.
Unavailable settings during Easy
Handycam
During Easy Handycam operation, some
items are unavailable. If an attempted
setting is not available, but still desired,
touch [SET] to display an on-screen
instruction. Follow the instruction to cancel
Easy Handycam operation and then select
the setting.
z Tips
If [SET] is not displayed in step 3, follow the
instruction on the screen.
SHOOT
GUIDE:
Takes you to the setting
screens related to
recording.
DISP
GUIDE:
Enables you to check the
meaning of each indicator
that appears on the LCD
screen. See page 72 for
details.
24
Searching for the starting point
Make sure that the CAMERA lamp
lights up (p. 19).
[END SCH] (END SEARCH) will not
work once you eject the cassette after you
have recorded on the tape.
Touch t [PAGE1], then touch
[END SCH].
The last scene of the most recent
recording is played back for about 5
seconds, and the camcorder enters the
standby mode at the point where the last
recording has finished.
b Notes
[END SCH] will not work correctly when there
is a blank section between recorded sections on
the tape.
z Tips
This operation is also available when the
POWER switch is set to PLAY/EDIT.
You can search for the start point to start
the next recording while viewing the
pictures on the screen. The sound is not
played back during the search.
1 Touch t [PAGE1] t
[MENU].
2 Select (CAMERA SET) with
/ , then touch [EXEC].
3 Select [EDITSEARCH] with /
, then touch [EXEC].
4 Select [ON] with / ,
then touch [EXEC] t .
5 Touch and hold (to go
backward)/ (to go forward)
and release it at the point where
you want the recording to start.
You can view about 2 seconds of the scene
recorded just before you stopped the tape.
1 Touch t [PAGE1] t
[MENU].
2 Select (CAMERA SET) with
/ , then touch [EXEC].
Searching for the last scene of
the most recent recording
(END SEARCH)
Searching manually
(EDIT SEARCH)
0:00:00
SPOT
FOCUS
FOCUS
MENU SCENE
SEL.
END
SCH
EXPO–
SURE
SPOT
METER
DISP
GUIDE
PAG E1 PAG E2
60min
Touch here again to cancel the operation.
Reviewing the most recently
recorded scenes (Rec review)
0:00:00STBY60min
EDIT
FN
GUIDE
25
Recording/Playback
3 Select [EDITSEARCH] with /
, then touch [EXEC].
4 Select [ON] with / ,
then touch [EXEC] t .
5 Touch .
The last 2 seconds (approx.) of the most
recently recorded scene are played back.
Then, your camcorder is set to standby.
0:00:00STBY60min
EDIT
FN
GUIDE
26
Playing the picture on a TV
You can connect your camcorder to the input jack of a TV or a VCR using the A/V connecting
cable (1) or the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2). Connect your camcorder to the
wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 10). Refer also
to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
A A/V connecting cable (supplied)
Connect to the input jack of another device.
B A/V connecting cable with S
VIDEO (optional)
When connecting to another device via the S
VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting
cable with an S VIDEO cable, pictures can be
reproduced more faithfully than with the
supplied A/V cable connection.
Connect the white and red plugs (left/right
audio) and S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO
channel) of an A/V connecting cable. In this
case, the yellow (standard video) plug
connection is not necessary. S VIDEO
connection only will not output audio.
z Tips
You can display the time code on the TV screen
by setting [DISP OUT] to [V-OUT/LCD]
(p. 42).
When connecting your camcorder to a
TV through a VCR
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN
input on the VCR. Set the input selector on
the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2,
etc.), if the VCR has an input selector.
When your TV is monaural (Only one
audio input jack)
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V
connecting cable to the video input jack and
connect the white (left channel) or the red
(right channel) plug to the audio input jack
of your TV or VCR.
2
1
A/V Remote
Connector
(Yellow)
(White)
(Red)
: Signal flow
VCRs or TVs
(Black)
(White)
(Red)
(Yellow)
Device without an
S VIDEO jack
Device with an
S VIDEO jack
27
Recording/Playback
If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor
(EUROCONNECTOR)
You need the 21-pin adaptor (optional) to
connect your camcorder to a TV for
viewing recorded images. This adaptor is
designed for output use only.
TV/VCR
28
Using the Menu
Using the menu items
1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow
repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp.
CAMERA lamp: settings for recording on a tape
PLAY/EDIT lamp: settings for viewing/editing
2 Touch the LCD screen to select the menu item.
Unavailable items will be grayed out.
x To use the operation buttons on
PAGE1/PAGE2/PAGE3
For details of the button items, see page
29.
1 Touch .
2 Touch the desired page.
3 Touch the desired button.
4 Select the desired setting, then touch
t (Close).
b Notes
With some settings, you do not have to
touch .
x To use menu items
For details of the items, see page 36.
1 Touch t [MENU] on
[PAGE1].
The menu index screen appears.
2 Select the desired menu.
Touch / to select the
item, then touch [EXEC]. (The process
in step 3 and 4 is the same as that in
step 2.)
3 Select the desired item.
4 Customize the item.
After finishing the settings, touch
(close) to hide the menu screen.
Each touch of [ RET.] takes you to
the previous screen.
x To use menu items during Easy
Handycam operation
1 Touch .
2 Select the desired button.
3 Change your item setting.
After finishing the settings, touch
(close).
b Notes
Cancel Easy Handycam operation to use
menu items normally.
29
Using the Menu
Operation button
items
Available operation buttons vary depending
on the position of the lamp and the display
(PAGE).
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
The available functions during Easy
Handycam operation are marked with *”.
See page 28 for details on selecting
button items.
[PAGE1]
You can select and adjust the focal point to
a subject not located in the center of the
screen.
1 Touch the point where you want to focus
on in the frame.
9 appears.
2 Touch [END].
To adjust the focus automatically, touch
[AUTO] or set [FOCUS] to [AUTO].
b Notes
If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is
automatically set to [MANUAL].
When the CAMERA lamp lights
up
SPOT FOCUS
AUTO
SPOT FOCUS
0:00:00
STBY60min
END
1
2
You can adjust the focus manually. You can
select this function also when you want to
focus on a certain subject intentionally.
1 Touch [MANUAL].
9 appears.
2 Touch (focusing on close subjects)/
(focusing on distant subjects) to
sharpen the focus. appears when the
focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and
appears when the focus cannot be adjusted
farther away.
3 Touch .
To adjust the focus automatically, touch
[AUTO].
b Notes
The minimum possible distance between
camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp
focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide
angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for
telephoto.
z Tips
It is easier to focus on the subject by moving the
power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to
adjust the focus, then towards W (wide angle) to
adjust the zoom for recording. When you want
to record a subject at close range, move the
power zoom lever to W (wide angle), then
adjust the focus.
FOCUS
Continued ,
30
You can adjust and fix the exposure to the
subject, so that it is recorded in suitable
brightness even when there is strong
contrast between the subject and the
background, such as subjects in the
spotlight on stage.
1 Touch the point where you want to fix and
adjust the exposure on the screen.
appears.
2 Touch [END].
To return the setting to automatic exposure,
touch [AUTO] or set [EXPOSURE] to
[AUTO].
b Notes
If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is
automatically set to [MANUAL].
See page 72.
See page 36.
You can record pictures effectively in
various situations with the SCENE SEL.
function.
B AUTO
Select to automatically record pictures
effectively without the [SCENE SEL.]
function.
TWILIGHT* ( )
Select to maintain the darkening
atmosphere of the distant surroundings in
twilight scenes.
SUNRSSUNST* (Sunrise & Sunset)
()
Select to maintain the atmosphere of
situations such as sunsets and sunrises.
LANDSCAPE* ( )
Select to shoot distant subjects clearly.
This setting also prevents your camcorder
from focusing on glass or metal mesh in
windows between the camcorder and the
subject.
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ( )
Select to bring out the subject such as
people or flowers while creating a soft
background.
SPOTLIGHT** ( )
Select to prevent people’s faces from
appearing excessively white when subjects
are lit by strong light.
SPOT METER
(Flexible spot meter)
DISP GUIDE (Display Guide)*
MENU
SCENE SEL.
AUTO
SPOT METER
0:00:00
STBY60min
END
1
2
Operation button items (Continued)
31
Using the Menu
SPORT** (Sports lesson) ( )
Select to minimize shake when shooting
fast moving subjects.
SNOW** ( )
Select this when shooting in very bright,
white conditions, such as on a ski slope;
otherwise pictures may appear too dark.
BEACH** ( )
Select to prevent people’s faces from
appearing dark in strong light or reflected
light, such as at a beach in midsummer.
b Notes
If you set [SCENE SEL], [WHT BAL] setting is
canceled.
See page 24.
You can fix the brightness of a picture
manually. Adjust the brightness when the
subject is too bright or too dark.
1 Touch [MANUAL].
appears.
2 Adjust the exposure by touching /
.
To return the setting to automatic exposure,
touch [AUTO].
[PAGE2]
You can add the following effects to
currently recording pictures.
1 Select the desired effect in standby mode
(to fade in) or recording mode (to fade out),
then touch t .
2 Press REC START/STOP.
The fader indicator stops flashing and
disappears when the fade is complete.
To cancel [FADER] before starting the
operation, touch [OFF] in step 1.
If you press REC START/STOP once, the
setting is canceled.
WHITE
* Adjusted to focus on subjects farther away
only.
**Adjusted not to focus on subjects a short
distance away.
END SCH (END SEARCH)
EXPOSURE
FADER
MANU–
AL
EXPOSURE
0:00:00STBY60min
OK
AUTO
1
2
Fading out Fading in
Continued ,
32
BLACK
MOSC. FADER
MONOTONE
When fading in, the picture gradually
changes from black and white to color.
When fading out, it gradually changes from
color to black and white.
You can adjust the color balance to the
brightness of the recording environment.
B AUTO
The white balance is adjusted
automatically.
OUTDOOR ( )
The white balance is appropriately
adjusted for the following recording
conditions:
– Outdoors
– Night views, neon signs and fireworks
– Sunrise or sunset
– Under daylight fluorescent lamps
INDOOR (n)
The white balance is appropriately
adjusted for the following recording
conditions:
– Indoors
– At party scenes or studios where the lighting
conditions change quickly
– Under video lamps in a studio, or under
sodium lamps or incandescent-like color
lamps
ONE PUSH ( )
The white balance will be adjusted
according to the ambient light.
1 Touch [ONE PUSH].
2 Frame a white object such as a piece of
paper, to fill the screen under the same
lighting conditions as you will shoot
the subject.
3 Touch .
flashes quickly. When the white
balance has been adjusted and stored in
the memory, the indicator stops
flashing.
b Notes
Set [WHT BAL] to [AUTO] or [ONE PUSH]
under white or cool white fluorescent lamps.
When you select [ONE PUSH], keep framing
white object while is flashing quickly.
flashes slowly if [ONE PUSH] could not
be set.
When [ONE PUSH] was selected, if keeps
flashing after touching , set [WHT
BAL] to [AUTO].
If you set [WHT BAL], [SCENE SEL] setting is
canceled.
z Tips
If you have changed the battery pack while
[AUTO] was selected, or taken your camcorder
outdoors after inside use with the [EXPOSURE]
set (or vice versa), select [AUTO] and aim your
camcorder at a nearby white object for about 10
seconds for better color balance adjustment.
When the white balance has been set with [ONE
PUSH], if you change the [SCENE SEL.]
settings, or bring your camcorder outdoors from
inside the house, or vice versa, you need to redo
the [ONE PUSH] procedure to readjust the
white balance.
B ON
A beeping sound starts when you start/stop
recording, or operate the touch panel.
OFF
Cancels the beeping sound and shutter
sound.
WHT BAL (White balance)
BEEP*
Operation button items (Continued)
33
Using the Menu
See page 13.
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen. The recorded picture will not be
affected by this operation.
Adjust the brightness with / .
You can use the video operation buttons
( / / / ) on every PAGE.
[PAGE1]
See page 36.
See page 22.
See page 24.
See page 72.
[PAGE2]
During playback, displays information
(data code) recorded automatically at the
time of recording.
B OFF
Data code is not displayed.
CAM DATA (below)
Displays camera setting data.
DATE/TIME
Displays the date and time.
ASteadyShot off
BExposure
CWhite balance
DGain
EShutter speed
FAperture value
b Notes
In the [DATE/TIME] data display, the date and
time are displayed in the same area. If you
record a picture without setting the clock, [-- --
----] and [--:--:--] will appear.
During Easy Handycam operation, you can set
[DATE/TIME] only.
See page 32.
See page 13.
[PAGE3]
You can play back in various modes while
viewing movies.
1 Touch the following buttons during
playback.
CLOCK SET*
LCD BRT (LCD bright)
When the PLAY/EDIT lamp lights
up
MENU
VOL* (Volume)
END SCH (END SEARCH)
DISP GUIDE (Display Guide)*
DATA CODE*
BEEP*
CLOCK SET
V SPD PLAY
(Various speed playback)
FN
GUIDE
0:00:00:0060min
AWB100
9dBF1. 8
AUTO
1
2
3
456
Continued ,
34
2 Touch [ RET.] t .
To return to the normal playback mode,
touch (Play/Pause) twice (once from
frame playback).
b Notes
You will not hear the recorded sound. You may
see mosaic-like images of the previously played
picture.
Using the internal stereo microphone
(p. 68), you can add sound to a tape already
recorded in 12-bit mode (p. 41) without
erasing the original sound.
b Notes
You cannot record additional audio:
When the tape has been recorded in the 16-bit
mode (p. 41).
When the tape has been recorded in the LP
mode.
When your camcorder is connected via an
i.LINK cable.
When the tape has been recorded in 4CH MIC
mode on other camcorders.
On blank sections of the tape.
When the tape has been recorded in a TV
color system other than that of your
camcorder (p. 58).
When the write-protect tab of the cassette is
set to SAVE (p. 59).
On sections recorded in HDV format.
When you add sound, the picture will not be
output from the A/V Remote Connector. Check
the picture on the LCD screen or the viewfinder.
You can only record additional audio over a
tape recorded on your camcorder. The sound
may deteriorate when you dub audio on a tape
recorded on other camcorders (including other
DCR-HC51E/HC52E/HC53E/HC54E
camcorders).
Recording sound
Insert a recorded cassette into your
camcorder beforehand.
1 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn
on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
2 Touch (Play/Pause) to play back the
tape, then touch it again at the point where
you want to start recording the sound.
3 Touch t [PAGE3] t [A DUB
CTRL] t [AUDIO DUB].
4 Touch (Play).
Your camcorder starts audio recording via
the internal stereo microphone.
appears while recording the new sound
in stereo 2 (ST2) during the playback of the
tape.
To Touch
change the
playback
direction*
(frame)
play back
slowly**
[ySLOW]
To reverse direction:
(frame) t
[ySLOW]
play back 2
times faster
(double speed)
(double speed)
To reverse direction:
(frame) t
(double speed)
play back frame
by frame
(frame) during
playback pause.
To reverse direction:
(frame) during
frame playback.
* Horizontal lines may appear at the top,
bottom, or in the center of the screen. This
is not a malfunction.
**Pictures output from the DV Interface
(i.LINK) cannot be played back smoothly in
slow mode.
A DUB CTRL (Audio dubbing)
RET.
0:00:00:0060min
AUDIO
DUB
0:00:00:0060min
A DUB CTRL
X appears.
Operation button items (Continued)
35
Using the Menu
5 Touch (Stop) when you want to stop
recording.
To dub on other scenes, repeat step
2 to
select scenes, then touch [AUDIO DUB].
6 Touch [ RET.] t .
To check the recorded sound
1 Play back the tape on which you have
recorded audio (p. 22).
2 Touch t [PAGE1] t [MENU].
3 Select (PLAYER SET) for the DCR-
HC51E/HC53E, or (VCR SET) for
the DCR-HC52E/HC54E, then touch
/ to select [AUDIO MIX],
then touch [EXEC].
4 Touch / to adjust the balance
of the original sound (ST1) and the new
sound (ST2), then touch [EXEC].
b Notes
The original sound (ST1) is output at the default
setting.
See page 45.
See page 33.
REC CTRL (Recording control)
(DCR-HC52E/HC54E)
LCD BRT (LCD bright)
ST1
ST2
VCR SET
AUDIO MIX
EXEC
RET.
36
* The value set before Easy Handycam operation will be retained during Easy Handycam operation.
Menu items
Available menu items (z) vary depending on which lamp is lit.
During Easy Handycam operation, the following settings are automatically applied (p. 17).
CAMERA PLAY/EDIT Easy Handycam
MANUAL SET menu (p. 37)
P EFFECT zz OFF
CAMERA SET menu (p. 38)
D ZOOM z OFF
WIDE SEL z
4:3
STEADYSHOT z
ON
EDITSEARCH z
OFF
N.S.LIGHT z
ON
PLAYER SET (DCR-HC51E/HC53E)/
VCR SET (DCR-HC52E/HC54E) menu
(p. 39)
AUDIO MIX z
LCD/VF SET menu (p. 40)
LCD B.L. zz
BRT NORMAL
LCD COLOR zz
VF B.L. zz
BRT NORMAL
WIDE DISP zz
TAPE SET menu (p. 41)
REC MODE (DCR-HC51E/HC53E) z SP
REC MODE (DCR-HC52E/HC54E) zz
SP
AUDIO MODE z
12BIT
REMAIN zz
AUTO
SETUP MENU menu (p. 41)
USB STREAM (DCR-HC53E/HC54E) zz OFF
LANGUAGE zz
z
DEMO MODE z
ON
OTHERS menu (p. 42)
WORLD TIME zz –*
A.SHUT OFF zz
5min
DISP OUT zz
LCD
GUIDEFRAME z
OFF
37
Using the Menu
MANUAL SET menu
– P EFFECT
The default setting is marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
See page 28 for details on selecting
menu items.
You can add special effects to a picture
during recording or playback. appears.
B OFF
Does not use [P EFFECT] setting.
NEG.ART
The color and brightness are reversed.
SEPIA
Pictures appear in sepia.
B&W
Pictures appear in black and white.
SOLARIZE
Pictures appear as an illustration with
strong contrast.
PASTEL*
Pictures appear as a pale pastel drawing.
P EFFECT (Picture effect)
MOSAIC*
Pictures appear mosaic-patterned.
b Notes
Effects added to the playback pictures are not
output via the DV Interface (i.LINK). Only
the original pictures can be output.
For DCR-HC52E/HC54E:
You cannot add effects to externally input
pictures.
z Tips
You can record pictures edited with special
effects on another VCR/DVD device, etc.
(p. 43).
* Not available during playback.
38
CAMERA SET
menu
– D ZOOM/WIDE SEL/STEADYSHOT, etc.
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
See page 28 for details on selecting
menu items.
You can select the maximum zoom level in
case you want to zoom to a level greater
than 40 × (the default setting) while
recording on a tape. Note that the image
quality decreases when you are using the
digital zoom.
B OFF
Up to 40 × zoom is performed optically.
80 ×
Up to 40 × zoom is performed optically,
and after that, up to 80 × zoom is
performed digitally.
2000 ×
Up to 40 × zoom is performed optically,
and after that, up to 2,000 × zoom is
performed digitally.
You can record a picture in a ratio suitable
for the screen on which it will be displayed.
Refer also to the operating instructions
supplied with your TV for details.
D ZOOM (Digital zoom)
WIDE SEL (Wide select)
The right side of the bar shows the digital
zooming factor. The zooming zone
appears when you select the zooming
level.
B 4:3
Standard setting (to record pictures to be
played back on a 4:3 TV).
16:9 WIDE ( )
Records pictures to be played back on a
16:9 wide TV in full screen mode.
When viewed on the LCD screen/viewfinder with
[16:9 WIDE] selected.
You can compensate for camera shake (the
default setting is [ON]). Set
[STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when
using a tripod (optional) or the conversion
lens (optional), then the image becomes
natural.
B OFF
Does not display or on the
LCD screen.
ON
Displays and on the LCD
screen, and enables the EDIT SEARCH
function and Rec review (p. 24).
* Picture appears in full screen mode when the
wide-screen TV switches to full mode.
** Played in 4:3 mode. When you play a picture in
the wide mode, it appears as you saw it on the
LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
STEADYSHOT
EDITSEARCH
When viewed on a 16:9 wide
screen TV*
When viewed on a standard
TV**
39
Using the Menu
When using the NightShot plus (p. 20)
function to record, you can record clearer
pictures by setting [N.S.LIGHT], which
emits infrared light (invisible), to [ON] (the
default setting).
b Notes
Do not cover the infrared port with your fingers
or other objects (p. 68).
Remove the conversion lens (optional) if it is
attached.
The maximum shooting distance using
[N.S.LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).
z Tips
If you record subjects in dark places, such as
night scenes or in moonlight, set [N.S.LIGHT]
to [OFF]. You can make the image color deeper
this way.
N.S.LIGHT (NightShot Light)
PLAYER SET/
VCR SET menu
– AUDIO MIX
The PLAYER SET menu is for the DCR-
HC51E/HC53E, and the VCR SET menu is
for the DCR-HC52E/HC54E.
See page 35.
AUDIO MIX
40
LCD/VF SET menu
– LCD B.L./LCD COLOR/VF B.L., etc
The default settings are marked with B.
See page 28 for details on selecting
menu items.
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD
screen’s backlight. The recorded picture
will not be affected by this operation.
B BRT NORMAL
Standard brightness.
BRIGHT
Brightens the LCD screen.
b Notes
When you connect your camcorder to outside
power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically
selected for the setting.
When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is
slightly reduced during recording.
You can adjust the color on the LCD screen
with / . The recorded picture
will not be affected by this operation.
You can adjust the brightness of the
viewfinder. The recorded picture will not be
affected by this operation.
B BRT NORMAL
Standard brightness.
BRIGHT
Brightens the viewfinder screen.
LCD B.L. (LCD back light)
LCD COLOR
VF B.L. (Viewfinder back light)
Low intensity High intensity
b Notes
When you connect your camcorder to outside
power sources, [BRIGHT] is automatically
selected for the setting.
When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is
slightly reduced during recording.
You can select how a 16:9 aspect ratio
picture appears in the viewfinder and the
LCD screen by setting [WIDE SEL] to
[16:9 WIDE]. The recorded picture will not
be affected by this operation.
B LETTER BOX
Normal setting (standard type of display)
SQUEEZE
Expands the picture vertically if black
bands at the top and bottom in 16:9 aspect
ratio are undesirable.
WIDE DISP (Wide display)
41
Using the Menu
TAPE SET menu
– REC MODE/AUDIO MODE/REMAIN
The default settings are marked with B.
The indicators in parentheses appear when
the items are selected.
See page 28 for details on selecting
menu items.
B SP (SP)
Records in the SP (Standard Play) mode on
a cassette.
LP (LP)
Increases the recording time to 1.5 times
the SP mode (Long Play).
b Notes
If you record in the LP mode, pictures may
appear mosaic-like or sound may be interrupted
when you play back the tape on other
camcorders or VCRs.
When you mix recordings in the SP mode and in
the LP mode on one tape, the playback picture
may be distorted or the time code may not be
written properly between the scenes.
B 12BIT
Records in the 12-bit mode (2 stereo
sounds).
16BIT ( )
Records in the 16-bit mode (1 stereo sound
with high quality).
B AUTO
Displays the remaining tape indicator for
about 8 seconds in situations such as those
described below.
When you set the POWER switch to PLAY/
EDIT or CAMERA with a cassette inserted.
When you touch (Play/Pause).
ON
Always displays the remaining tape
indicator.
SETUP MENU
menu
– USB STREAM/LANGUAGE, etc.
See page 28 for details on selecting
menu items.
You can view the pictures displayed on the
screen of your camcorder on your computer
(USB Streaming) via the USB cable. See
“First Step Guide” in the supplied CD-
ROM for details (p. 50).
You can select the language to be used on
the LCD screen.
Your camcorder offers [ENG[SIMP]]
(simplified English) for when you cannot find
your native tongue among the options.
The default setting is [ON], allowing you to
view the demonstration about 10 minutes
after you have removed a cassette from
your camcorder, and slide the POWER
switch repeatedly to turn on the CAMERA
lamp.
z Tips
The demonstration will be suspended in
situations such as those described below.
When you touch the screen during the
demonstration. (The demonstration starts
again after about 10 minutes.)
When a cassette is inserted.
When the POWER switch is set to other than
CAMERA.
REC MODE (Recording mode)
AUDIO MODE
REMAIN
USB STREAM (DCR-HC53E/
HC54E)
LANGUAGE
DEMO MODE
42
OTHERS menu
– WORLD TIME, etc.
The default settings are marked with B.
See page 28 for details on selecting
menu items.
When using your camcorder abroad, you
can set the time difference by touching
/ , the clock will be adjusted in
accordance with the time difference.
If you set the time difference to 0, the clock
returns to the originally set time.
B 5min
The camcorder is automatically turned off
when you do not operate your camcorder
for more than approximately 5 minutes.
NEVER
The camcorder is not automatically turned
off.
b Notes
When you connect your camcorder to a wall
outlet (wall socket), [A.SHUT OFF] is
automatically set to [NEVER].
B LCD
Shows displays such as the time code on
the LCD screen and in the viewfinder.
V-OUT/LCD
Shows displays such as the time code on
the TV screen, LCD screen, and in the
viewfinder.
WORLD TIME
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)
DISP OUT (Display output)
You can display the frame and check that
the subject is horizontal or vertical by
setting [GUIDEFRAME] to [ON].
The frame is not recorded. Press DISP/
BATT INFO to make the frame disappear.
z Tips
Placing the subject at the cross point of the
guide frame makes a balanced composition.
GUIDEFRAME
43
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing/Editing
Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders
You can dub images played back on your camcorder to other recording devices, such as VCRs
or DVD/HDD recorders.
You can connect your camcorder to VCRs or DVD/HDD recorders, using the A/V connecting
cable (1), the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), or the i.LINK cable (3).
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for
this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be
connected.
A A/V connecting cable (supplied)
Connect to the input jack of another device.
B A/V connecting cable with S
VIDEO (optional)
When connecting to another device via the S
VIDEO jack, by using the A/V connecting
cable with an S VIDEO cable, pictures can be
reproduced more faithfully than with the
supplied A/V cable connection. Connect the
white and red plugs (left/right audio) and S
VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) of an A/V
connecting cable. In this case, the yellow
(standard video) plug connection is not
necessary. S VIDEO connection only will not
output audio.
C i.LINK cable (optional)
Use an i.LINK cable to connect your
camcorder to another device equipped with an
i.LINK jack. The video and audio signals are
transmitted digitally, producing high quality
pictures and sound. Note that you cannot
output picture and sound separately.
DV
2
1
3
(Yellow)
(White)
(Red)
(Black)
(White)
(Red)
(Yellow)
Device without an
S VIDEO jack
Device with an
S VIDEO jack
A/V Remote
Connector
: Signal flow
To i.LINK jack
To DV or DV OUT
Interface (i.LINK)
VCRs or DVD/HDD
recorders
Continued ,
44
b Notes
When you are connecting your camcorder to a
monaural device, connect the yellow plug of the
A/V connecting cable to the video input jack,
and the red (right channel) or the white (left
channel) plug to the audio input jack on the
device.
When you connect a device via an A/V
connecting cable, set [DISP OUT] to [LCD] (the
default setting) (p. 42).
1 Prepare your camcorder for
playback.
Insert the recorded cassette.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to
turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp.
2 Insert the recording media in the
recording device.
If your recording device has an input
selector, set it to the appropriate input
(such as video input1, video input2).
3 Connect your camcorder to the
recording device (VCR or DVD/
HDD recorder) with the A/V
connecting cable (supplied) 1,
an A/V connecting cable with S
VIDEO (optional) 2 or an i.LINK
cable (optional) 3.
Connect your camcorder to the input
jacks of the recording device.
4 Start playback on the camcorder,
and recording on the recording
device.
Refer to the operating instructions
supplied with your recording device for
details.
5 When dubbing is complete, stop
your camcorder and the
recording device.
b Notes
To record the date/time and camera settings data
when connected by the A/V connecting cable,
display them on the screen (p. 33).
The following cannot be output via the DV
Interface (i.LINK):
Indicators
Pictures edited using [P EFFECT] (p. 37)
When connected using an i.LINK cable, the
recorded picture becomes rough when a picture
is paused on your camcorder while recording.
When connected using an i.LINK cable, data
code (date/time/camera settings data) may not
be displayed or recorded depending on the
device or application.
Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders (Continued)
45
Dubbing/Editing
Recording pictures from a VCR, etc. (DCR-
HC52E/HC54E)
Using an i.LINK cable (optional), you can record pictures from a VCR, etc., on a tape.
Be sure to insert a cassette for recording in your camcorder beforehand.
You can connect your camcorder to a VCR or an i.LINK-compatible device using the i.LINK
cable (optional).
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for
this operation (p. 10). Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be
connected.
When connecting your camcorder to
another device using an i.LINK cable, the
video and audio signals are transmitted
digitally, producing high quality pictures
and sound. Note that you cannot output
picture and sound separately.
1 Connect your VCR, etc., to your
camcorder with an i.LINK cable.
2 Insert a cassette into the VCR.
3 Slide the POWER switch
repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/
EDIT lamp.
4 Set your camcorder to recording
pause mode.
Touch t [PAGE3] t [REC
CTRL] t [REC PAUSE].
b Notes
You cannot record pictures on your camcorder from a VCR that does not have an i.LINK
jack.
DV
i.LINK
: Signal flow
To i.LINK jack
To DV Interface (i.LINK)
i.LINK cable (optional)
AV device
with i.LINK
jack
Continued ,
46
5 Start playing the cassette on the
VCR.
The picture played on the connected
device appears on the LCD screen of
your camcorder.
6 Touch [REC START] at the point
you want to start recording.
7 Stop recording.
Touch (Stop) or [REC PAUSE].
8 Touch [ RET.] t .
b Notes
The indicator appears when you connect
your camcorder and other devices via an i.LINK
cable. (This indicator may also appear on the
connected device.)
Recording pictures from a VCR, etc. (DCR-HC52E/HC54E) (Continued)
47
Using a Computer
Using a Computer
What you can do with Windows computer (DCR-
HC53E/54E)
When you install the “Picture Motion
Browser” on a Windows computer from the
supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the
following operations.
b Notes
You cannot install the supplied software,
“Picture Motion Browser”, on a Macintosh
computer.
x Importing/Viewing movies taken
with your camcorder
You can manage movies by date and time
of shooting, and select movies you want to
view as thumbnails. These thumbnails can
be enlarged and played in a slide show.
x Editing movies imported to a
computer
You can edit imported movies on a
computer.
x Exporting movies from your
computer to your camcorder
You can export movies that have been
imported to a computer from your
camcorder, back to your camcorder.
The “First Step Guide” is an instruction
manual you can refer to on your computer.
This describes basic operations, from initial
hookup of your camcorder and computer
and making settings, to general operation
the first time you use the software “Picture
Motion Browser” stored on the CD-ROM
(supplied).
Referring to “Installing the “First Step
Guide”” (p. 48), start the “First Step
Guide”, then follow the instructions.
The Help guide explains all the functions of
all the software applications. Refer to the
Help guide for further detailed operations
after reading the “First Step Guide”
thoroughly.
To display the Help guide, click the [?]
mark on the screen.
When using “Picture Motion Browser”
OS: Windows 2000 Professional SP4,
Windows XP SP2*,
Windows Vista*
*64-bit editions and Starter (Edition)
are not supported.
Standard installation is required.
Operation is not assured if the above
OS has been upgraded or in a multi-
boot environment.
CPU: Intel Pentium III 800 MHz or faster
Application: DirectX 9.0c or later (This
product is based on DirectX technology.
It is necessary to have DirectX
installed.)
Sound system: Direct Sound compatible
sound card
Main functions
About “First Step Guide”
About the help function of the
software
System requirements
Continued ,
48
Memory: 256 MB or more
Hard disk: Disc volume required for
installation: Approximately 350 MB
Display: Minimum 1024 × 768 dots
Others: USB port (this must be
provided as standard, Hi-Speed USB
(USB 2.0 compatible) is recommended),
DV Interface (IEEE1394, i.LINK) (to
connect via an i.LINK cable), disc drive
(CD-ROM drive is necessary for
installation)
b Notes
Operations are not guaranteed on a computer
environment that does not meet the system
requirements.
Operations are not guaranteed on all the
recommended environments.
For example, other open or background
applications running on currently may limit
product performance.
If you use a Notebook PC, connect it to the AC
Adaptor as the power source. Otherwise, the
software will not work properly due to the
power saving function of the PC.
Installing the “First
Step Guide” and
software (DCR-HC53E/
54E)
You need to install the “First Step Guide”
and software to your Windows computer
before connecting your camcorder
to the computer. The installation is
required only for the first time.
Contents to be installed and procedures
may differ depending on your OS.
1 Confirm that your camcorder is
not connected to the computer.
2 Turn on the computer.
Log on as an Administrator for installation.
Close all applications running on the
computer before installing the software.
3 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the
disc drive of your computer.
The installation screen appears.
If the screen does not appear
1 Click [Start], then click [My
Computer]. (For Windows 2000,
double-click [My Computer].)
2 Double-click [SONYPICTUTIL (E:)]
(CD-ROM) (disc drive).*
4 Click [FirstStepGuide].
Installing the “First Step Guide”
* Drive names (such as (E:)) may vary
depending on the computer.
What you can do with Windows
computer (DCR-HC53E/54E)
(Continued)
49
Using a Computer
5 Select the desired language and
the model name of your
camcorder from the pull-down
menu.
6 Click [FirstStepGuide(HTML)].
Installation starts.
When [Save is complete] appears, click
[OK] to finish the installation.
To view the “First Step Guide” in PDF
In step 6, click [FirstStepGuide(PDF)].
To install the software “Adobe
Reader” to display the PDF file
In step 6, click [Adobe(R) Reader(R)].
1 Perform steps 1 to 3 in “Installing
the “First Step Guide”” (p. 48).
2 Click [Install].
3 Select the language for the
application to be installed, then
click [Next].
4 Check your country/region, then
click [Next].
5 Read [License Agreement], select
[I accept the terms of the license
agreement] when you agree, then
click [Next].
6 Follow the on-screen instructions
to install the software.
Depending on the computer, you may
need to install third party software
(shown below). If the installation screen
appears, follow the instructions to
install the required software.
x Microsoft DirectX 9.0c
Software required to handle movies
Restart the computer if required to
complete the installation.
The short-cut icons, such as [ ]
(Picture Motion Browser), appear on the
desktop.
7 Remove the CD-ROM from the
disc drive of your computer.
Installing the software
50
Viewing “First Step Guide” (DCR-HC53E/54E)
To view “First Step Guide” on your
computer, Microsoft Internet Explorer
Ver.6.0 or later is recommended.
Double-click the short-cut icon for your
camcorder’s “First Step Guide” on the
desktop.
z Tips
You can also start by selecting [Start] t
[Programs] ([All Programs] for Windows XP)
t [Sony Picture Utility] t [FirstStepGuide]
t Your camcorder's folder t “First Step
Guide” in HTML.
To view “First Step Guide” in HTML without
installing, copy the desired language folder from
the [FirstStepGuide] folder on the CD-ROM,
and then double-click [Index.html].
Refer to the “First Step Guide” in PDF in the
following cases:
When printing the desired topics of “First
Step Guide”
When “First Step Guide” is not displayed
correctly due to the browser setting even in
recommended environment.
When the HTML version of “First Step
Guide” cannot be installed.
51
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
If you run into any problems using your
camcorder, use the following table to
troubleshoot the problem. If the problem
persists, disconnect the power source and
contact your Sony dealer.
Overall operations/Easy Handycam ..... 51
Batteries/Power sources ....................... 51
LCD screen/viewfinder ........................ 52
Cassette tapes ....................................... 52
Recording ............................................. 53
Playback ............................................... 54
Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other
devices.................................................. 54
Connecting to a computer .................... 55
Functions that cannot be used together
.............................................................. 55
The power does not turn on.
• Attach a charged battery pack to the
camcorder (p. 10).
• Use the AC Adaptor to connect to a wall
outlet (wall socket) (p. 10).
The camcorder does not operate
even when the power is set to on.
Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall
outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery
pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.
Press the RESET button (p. 69) using a
sharp-pointed object. (If you press the
RESET button, all settings are reset.)
Buttons do not work.
During Easy Handycam operation, not all
buttons are functional (p. 18).
Settings change during Easy
Handycam operation.
During Easy Handycam operation, the
settings of the functions that are not
displayed on the screen return to their
defaults (p. 17, 36).
The menu item settings have
changed unexpectedly.
The following settings return to the default
settings automatically when you set the
POWER switch to OFF(CHG) for more
than 12 hours.
backlight
[SPOT FOCUS]
–[FOCUS]
[SPOT METER]
[SCENE SEL.]
–[EXPOSURE]
[WHT BAL]
[AUDIO MIX]
The camcorder gets warm.
The camcorder may get warmer while you
use it. This is not a malfunction.
The power abruptly turns off.
When approximately 5 minutes have
elapsed while you do not operate your
camcorder, the camcorder is automatically
turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the
setting of [A.SHUT OFF] (p. 42), or turn
on the power again (p. 13), or use the AC
Adaptor.
Charge the battery pack (p. 10).
The battery is fully discharged, or almost
discharged.
The CHG (charge) lamp does not
light while the battery pack is being
charged.
Slide the POWER switch to OFF(CHG)
(p. 10).
Overall operations/Easy
Handycam
Batteries/Power sources
Continued ,
52
• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder
correctly (p. 10).
Connect the power cord (mains lead) to the
wall outlet (wall socket) properly (p. 10).
The battery charge is completed (p. 10).
The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while
the battery pack is being charged.
• Attach the battery pack to the camcorder
correctly (p. 10). If the problem persists,
disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall
outlet (wall socket) and contact your Sony
dealer. The battery pack may be worn-out.
The remaining battery time indicator
does not indicate the correct time.
Ambient temperature is too high or too low,
or the battery pack has not been charged
enough. This is not a malfunction.
Fully charge the battery again. If the
problem persists, the battery may be worn-
out. Replace it with a new one (p. 10, 60).
The indicated time may not be correct in
certain circumstances. For example, when
you open or close the LCD panel, it takes
about 1 minute to display the correct
remaining battery time.
The battery pack discharges too
quickly.
Ambient temperature is too high or too low,
or the battery pack has not been charged
enough. This is not a malfunction.
Fully charge the battery again. If the
problem persists, the battery may be worn-
out. Replace it with a new one (p. 10, 60).
A rippling effect appears on the LCD
screen when you touch it.
This is not a malfunction. Do not press hard
on the LCD screen.
The buttons do not appear on the
touch panel.
Touch the LCD screen lightly.
Press DISP/BATT INFO on your
camcorder (p. 69).
The buttons on the touch panel do
not work correctly or do not work at
all.
Adjust the touch panel ([CALIBRATION])
(p. 63).
Menu items are grayed out.
You cannot select grayed items in the
current recording/playback situation.
The picture in the viewfinder is not
clear.
Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever
until the picture appears clearly (p. 15).
The picture in the viewfinder has
disappeared.
Close the LCD panel. The picture is not
displayed in the viewfinder when the LCD
panel is open (p. 15).
Dots in lines appear on the LCD
screen.
This is not a malfunction. These dots are
not recorded.
The cassette cannot be ejected from
the compartment.
• Make sure the power source (battery pack
or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly
(p. 10).
Moisture condensation has occurred inside
the camcorder (p. 62).
LCD screen/viewfinder
Cassette tapes
Troubleshooting (Continued)
53
Troubleshooting
The Cassette Memory indicator or
title display does not appear while
using a cassette with Cassette
Memory.
This camcorder does not support Cassette
Memory, so the indicator does not appear.
The remaining tape indicator is not
displayed.
• Set [ REMAIN] to [ON] to always
display the remaining tape indicator (p. 41).
The cassette is noisier during
rewinding or fast-forwarding.
When using the AC Adaptor, rewind/fast
forward speed increases (compared with
battery operation) and therefore increases
noise. This is not a malfunction.
The tape does not start when you
press REC START/STOP.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn
on the CAMERA lamp (p. 19).
The tape has reached the end. Rewind it, or
insert a new cassette.
Set the write-protect tab to REC or insert a
new cassette (p. 59).
The tape is stuck to the drum due to
moisture condensation. Remove the
cassette and leave your camcorder for at
least 1 hour, then re-insert the cassette
(p. 62).
You cannot record a smooth
transition on a tape from the last
recorded scene to the next.
Perform [END SCH] (p. 24).
Do not remove the cassette. (The picture
will be recorded continuously without a
break even when you turn the power off.)
Do not record pictures in SP mode and LP
mode on the same tape.
Avoid stopping then recording a movie in
the LP mode.
[END SCH] does not work.
Do not eject the cassette after recording
(p. 24).
There is nothing recorded on the cassette.
There is a blank section between recorded
sections of the tape. This is not a
malfunction.
The auto focus does not function.
Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 29).
The recording conditions are not suitable
for auto focus. Adjust the focus manually
(p. 29).
[STEADYSHOT] does not function.
Set [STEADYSHOT] to [ON] (p. 38).
The backlight function does not
function.
In the following settings, the backlight
function is canceled.
[MANUAL] of [EXPOSURE]
[SPOT METER]
The backlight function does not work
during Easy Handycam operation (p. 18).
A vertical band appears when
recording candlelight or electric light
in the dark.
This occurs when the contrast between the
subject and the background is too high.
This is not a malfunction.
A vertical band appears when
recording a bright subject.
This phenomenon is called the smear effect.
This is not a malfunction.
Recording
Continued ,
54
The color of the picture is not
correctly displayed.
Deactivate the NightShot plus function
(p. 20).
The screen picture is bright, and the
subject does not appear on the
screen.
Deactivate the NightShot plus function
(p. 20), or cancel the backlight function
(p. 21).
Undesirable flicker occurs.
This anomaly may occur when recording
pictures under the discharge tube, such as a
fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury
lamp, with [PORTRAIT] or [SPORT]. This
is not a malfunction.
Black bands appear when you
record a TV screen or computer
screen.
• Set [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] (p. 38).
[The lens cover might be
closed.Check the cover.] appears on
the screen when the lens cover is
open.
There is not enough light, or the lens is
covered by your finger or other object.
You cannot play back a tape.
Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn
on the PLAY/EDIT lamp (p. 22).
Rewind the tape (p. 22).
Horizontal lines appear on the
picture. The displayed pictures are
not clear or do not appear.
Clean the head using the cleaning cassette
(optional) (p. 63).
No sound or only a low sound is
heard.
Turn up the volume (p. 22).
Adjust [AUDIO MIX] until the sound is
heard appropriately (p. 35).
If you are using an S VIDEO plug, make
sure the red and white plugs of the A/V
connecting cable are also connected (p. 26).
The sound breaks off.
• Clean the head using the cleaning cassette
(optional) (p. 63).
“---” is displayed on the screen.
The tape you are playing was recorded
without setting the date and time.
A blank section on the tape is being played.
The data code on a tape with a scratch or
noise cannot be read.
Noises appear and is displayed
on the screen.
The tape was recorded in a TV color system
other than that of your camcorder (PAL).
This is not a malfunction (p. 58).
is displayed on the screen.
The tape you are playing was recorded on
another device with a 4ch microphone
(4CH MIC REC). Your camcorder is not
compatible with 4ch microphone recording.
Time code and other information
appear on the display of the
connected device.
Set [DISP OUT] to [LCD] while connected
with an A/V connecting cable (p. 42).
Playback
Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to
other devices
Troubleshooting (Continued)
55
Troubleshooting
You cannot dub correctly using the
A/V connecting cable.
The A/V connecting cable is not connected
properly. Make sure that the A/V
connecting cable is connected to the input
jack of another device for dubbing a picture
from your camcorder (p. 43).
New sound added to a recorded tape
is not heard.
Adjust [AUDIO MIX] until the sound is
heard appropriately (p. 35).
Pictures from connected devices are
not displayed correctly.
The input signal is not PAL (p. 58).
The computer does not recognize
your camcorder.
Install the “Picture Motion Browser”
(p. 48).
The computer may not recognize your
camcorder for a few moments after you
connect it. Wait for a while.
Disconnect USB devices other than the
keyboard, the mouse, and the camcorder
from the (USB) jack on the computer.
Disconnect the cable from the computer
and camcorder, restart the computer, then
connect them again correctly.
You cannot install the supplied
software, “Picture Motion Browser,”
on a Macintosh computer.
You can install “Picture Motion Browser”
only on a Windows computer.
Depending on the functions, you may not
be able to use them together. The following
list shows examples of functions that
cannot be used at the same time.
Connecting to a computer (DCR-
HC53E/54E)
Functions that cannot be used
together
Not available If this function is set
backlight [SPOT METER],
[EXPOSURE]
[SPOT FOCUS] [SCENE SEL.]
[SPOT METER] NightShot plus
[SCENE SEL.] NightShot plus
[EXPOSURE] NightShot plus
[WHT BAL] NightShot plus
56
Warning indicators and messages
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or in
the viewfinder, check the following.
Some symptoms you can fix by yourself. If
the problem persists even after you have
tried a couple of times, contact your Sony
dealer or local authorized Sony service
facility.
C:(or E:) ss:ss (Self-diagnosis
display)
C:04:ss
The battery pack is not an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H
series). Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack (H series) (p. 60).
Connect the DC plug of the AC
Adaptor to the DC IN jack of your
camcorder securely (p. 10).
C:21:ss
Moisture condensation has occurred.
Remove the cassette and leave your
camcorder for at least 1 hour, then re-
insert the cassette (p. 62).
C:22:ss
Clean the head using a cleaning
cassette (optional) (p. 63).
C:31:ss / C:32:ss
Symptoms that are not described above
have occurred. Remove and insert the
cassette, then operate your camcorder
again. Do not perform this procedure if
moisture condensation has occurred
(p. 62).
Remove the power source. Reconnect it
and operate your camcorder again.
Change the cassette. Press RESET
(p. 69), and operate your camcorder
again.
E:61:ss / E:62:ss
Contact your Sony dealer or local
authorized Sony service facility. Inform
them of the 5-digit code, which starts
from “E.”
E (Battery level warning)
The battery pack is nearly used up.
Depending on the operating,
environment, or battery conditions, E
may flash, even if there are
approximately 5 to 10 minutes
remaining.
% (Moisture condensation warning)*
Eject the cassette, remove the power
source, and then leave it for about 1
hour with the cassette lid open (p. 62).
Q (Warning indicators pertaining to
the tape)
Slow flashing:
There is less than 5 minutes remaining
on the tape.
No cassette is inserted.*
The write-protect tab on the cassette is
set to lock (p. 59).*
Fast flashing:
The tape has run out.*
Z (Eject cassette warning)*
Slow flashing:
The write-protect tab on the cassette is
set to lock (p. 59).
Fast flashing:
Moisture condensation has occurred
(p. 62).
The self-diagnosis display code is
displayed (p. 56).
* You hear a melody when the warning indicators
appear on the screen (p. 32).
Self-diagnosis display/Warning
indicators
57
Troubleshooting
If messages appear on the screen, follow the
instructions.
%Z Moisture condensation. Eject
the cassette (p. 62)
% Moisture condensation. Turn off
for 1H. (p. 62)
Z Reinsert the cassette. (p. 16)
Check if the cassette is damaged.
QZ The tape is locked - check the
tab. (p. 59)
Examples of warning messages
58
Additional Information
Using your camcorder abroad
Power supply
You can use your camcorder in any
country/region using the AC Adaptor
supplied with your camcorder within the
AC 100 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz range.
On TV color systems
Your camcorder is PAL system, so its
picture can only be viewed on a PAL
system TV with an AUDIO/VIDEO input
jack.
Simple setting of the clock by time
difference
You can easily set the clock to the local
time abroad by entering the time difference
between where you live and where you are.
Select [WORLD TIME] in the
(OTHERS) menu, then set the time
difference (p. 42).
System Used in
PAL Australia, Austria, Belgium,
China, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Finland, Germany,
Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary,
Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia,
New Zealand, Norway, Poland,
Portugal, Singapore,
Slovak Republic, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand,
United Kingdom, etc.
PAL - M Brazil
PAL - N Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay.
SECAM Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran,
Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine,
etc.
NTSC Bahama Islands, Bolivia,
Canada, Central America, Chile,
Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana,
Jamaica, Japan, Korea, Mexico,
Peru, Surinam, Taiwan,
the Philippines, the U.S.A.,
Venezuela, etc.
59
Additional Information
Maintenance and precautions
You can use mini DV format cassettes only.
Use a cassette with the mark.
Your camcorder is not compatible with the
Cassette Memory function.
To prevent a blank section from being
created on the tape
Go to the end of the recorded section using
END SEARCH (p. 24) before you begin the
next recording in the following cases:
You have played back the tape.
You have used EDIT SEARCH.
Copyright signal
x When you play back
If the cassette you play back on your
camcorder contains copyright signals, you
cannot copy it to a tape in another video
camera connected to your camcorder.
x For DCR-HC52E/HC54E:
When you record
You cannot record software on your
camcorder that contains copyright control
signals for copyright protection of software.
[Cannot record due to copyright
protection.] appears on the LCD screen, or
on the viewfinder if you try to record such
software. Your camcorder does not record
copyright control signals on the tape when
it records.
Notes on use
x When not using your camcorder for a
long time
Remove the cassette and store it.
x To prevent accidental erasure
Slide the write-protect tab on the cassette to
set it to SAVE.
x When labeling the cassette
Be sure to place the label only on the
locations shown in the following
illustration so as not to cause a malfunction
of your camcorder.
x After using the cassette
Rewind the tape to the beginning to avoid
distortion of the picture or the sound. The
cassette should then be put in its case, and
stored in an upright position.
x When cleaning the gold-plated
connector
Generally, clean the gold-plated connector
on a cassette with a cotton-wool swab after
every 10 times it has been ejected.
If the gold-plated connector on the cassette
is dirty or dusty, the remaining tape
indicator may not show correctly.
Usable cassette tapes
REC
SAVE
REC: The cassette can be
recorded.
SAVE: The cassette cannot be
recorded (write-protected).
Do not put a label
along this border.
Labeling position
Gold-plated connector
Continued ,
60
This unit is compatible with an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series).
Your camcorder operates only with an
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.
“InfoLITHIUM” H series battery packs
have the mark.
What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery
pack?
An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a
lithium-ion battery pack that has functions
for communicating information related to
operating conditions between your
camcorder and an optional AC Adaptor/
charger.
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
calculates the power consumption
according to the operating conditions of
your camcorder, and displays the remaining
battery time in minutes.
To charge the battery pack
Be sure to charge the battery pack before you
start using your camcorder.
We recommend charging the battery pack in an
ambient temperature of between 10 °C to 30 °C
(50 °F to 86 °F) until the CHG (charge) lamp
turns off. If you charge the battery pack outside
of this temperature range, you may not be able
to charge it efficiently.
When charging the battery pack while the AC
Adaptor is connected to your camcorder, after
charging is complete, disconnect the cable from
the DC IN jack on your camcorder or remove
the battery pack.
To use the battery pack effectively
Battery pack performance decreases when the
surrounding temperature is 10 °C (50 °F) or
below, and the length of time you can use the
battery pack becomes shorter. In that case, do
one of the following to use the battery pack for a
longer time.
Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it up,
and insert it in your camcorder right before
you start taking shots.
Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FH70/
FH100 (optional).
Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent
playback, fast forward or rewind operation
wears out the battery pack faster.
We recommend using a large capacity battery
pack: NP-FH70/FH100 (optional).
Be sure to set the POWER switch to OFF(CHG)
when not recording or playing back on your
camcorder. The battery pack is also consumed
when your camcorder is in recording standby or
playback pause.
Have spare battery packs ready for two or three
times the expected recording time, and make
trial recordings before making the actual
recording.
Do not expose the battery pack to water. The
battery pack is not water resistant.
About the remaining battery time
indicator
When the power goes off even though the
remaining battery time indicator indicates that
the battery pack has enough power to operate,
charge the battery pack fully again. Remaining
battery time will be indicated correctly. Note,
however, that the battery indication will not be
restored if it is used in high temperatures for a
long time, or if left in a fully charged state, or
when the battery pack is frequently used. Use
the remaining battery time indication as a rough
guide only.
The E mark that indicates low battery flashes
even if there are still 5 to 10 minutes of battery
time remaining, depending on the operating
conditions or ambient temperature.
About storage of the battery pack
If the battery pack is not used for a long time,
fully charge the battery pack and use it up on
your camcorder once a year to maintain proper
function. To store the battery pack, remove it
from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool
place.
To discharge the battery pack on your
camcorder completely, set [A.SHUT OFF] to
[NEVER] on the (OTHERS) menu and
leave your camcorder in tape recording standby
until the power goes off (p. 42).
About the “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack
Maintenance and precautions (Continued)
61
Additional Information
About battery life
Battery capacity decreases over time and
through repeated use. If decreased usage time
between charges becomes significant, it is
probably time to replace it with a new one.
Each battery’s life is governed by storage,
operating and environmental conditions.
The DV Interface on this unit is an i.LINK-
compliant DV Interface. This section
describes the i.LINK standard and its
features.
What is i.LINK?
i.LINK is a digital serial interface for
transferring digital video, digital audio, and
other data to other i.LINK-compatible
devices. You can also control other devices
using the i.LINK.
i.LINK-compatible devices can be
connected using an i.LINK cable. Possible
applications are operations and data
transactions with various digital AV
devices.
When two or more i.LINK-compatible
devices are daisy-chained with the unit,
operation becomes possible from any
device in the chain. Note that operation
method may vary, or data transactions may
not be possible, depending on specifications
and characteristics of the connected
devices.
b Notes
Normally, only one device can be connected to
this unit with an i.LINK cable. When
connecting this unit to an i.LINK-compatible
device having two or more DV Interfaces, refer
to the operating instructions of the device to be
connected.
z Tips
i.LINK is a more familiar term for the IEEE
1394 data transport bus proposed by Sony, and
is a trademark approved by many corporations.
IEEE 1394 is an international standard
standardized by the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers.
About the i.LINK Baud rate
i.LINK’s maximum baud rate varies
according to the device. There are 3 types.
S100 (approx. 100Mbps*)
S200 (approx. 200Mbps)
S400 (approx. 400Mbps)
The baud rate is listed under
“Specifications” in the operating
instructions of each piece of equipment. It
is also indicated near the i.LINK interface
on some devices.
The baud rate may differ from the indicated
value when the unit is connected to a device
with a different maximum baud rate.
Mbps stands for “megabits per second,” or
the amount of data that can be sent or
received in one second. For example, a
baud rate of 100 Mbps means that 100
megabits of data can be sent in one second.
To use i.LINK functions on this unit
For details on how to dub when this unit is
connected to other video devices having a
DV Interface, see page 43, 45.
This unit can also be connected to other
i.LINK (DV Interface) compatible devices
made by Sony (e.g. a VAIO series personal
computer) as well as to video devices.
Some i.LINK compatible video devices,
such as Digital Televisions, DVD,
MICROMV or HDV recorders/players are
not compatible with DV devices. Before
connecting to other devices, be sure to
confirm whether the device is compatible
with a DV device or not. For details on
precautions and compatible application
software, refer also to the operating
instructions for the device to be connected.
About i.LINK
* What is Mbps?
Continued ,
62
b Notes
When connecting your camcorder to another
i.LINK-compatible device, be sure to turn off
the power of the device and disconnect the AC
Adaptor from the wall outlet (wall socket)
before connecting or disconnecting the i.LINK
cable.
About the required i.LINK cable
Use the Sony i.LINK 4-pin-to-4-pin cable
(during DV dubbing).
On use and care
Do not use or store the camcorder and
accessories in the following locations.
Anywhere extremely hot, cold or humid.
Never leave them exposed to temperatures
above 60 °C (140 °F), such as under direct
sunlight, near heaters or in a car parked in the
sun. They may malfunction or become
deformed.
Near strong magnetic fields or mechanical
vibration. The camcorder may malfunction.
Near strong radio waves or radiation. The
camcorder may not be able to record properly.
Near AM receivers and video equipment.
Noise may occur.
On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If sand
or dust gets in your camcorder, it may
malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction
cannot be repaired.
Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD
screen, the viewfinder, or the lens may be
exposed to direct sunlight. This damages the
inside of the viewfinder or the LCD screen.
Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V
(battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor).
For DC or AC operation, use the accessories
recommended in these operating instructions.
Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example,
from rain or sea water. If your camcorder gets
wet, it may malfunction. Sometimes this
malfunction cannot be repaired.
If any solid object or liquid gets inside the
casing, unplug your camcorder and have it
checked by a Sony dealer before operating it
any further.
Avoid rough handling, disassembling,
modifying, physical shock, or impact such as
hammering, dropping or stepping on the
product. Be particularly careful of the lens.
Keep the POWER switch setting to OFF(CHG)
when you are not using your camcorder.
Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for
example, and operate it. Doing so might cause
heat to build up inside.
When disconnecting the power cord (mains
lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord.
Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)
such as by placing anything heavy on it.
Keep metal contacts clean.
If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked,
consult your local authorized Sony service
facility.
wash off any liquid that may have contacted
your skin
if any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with
plenty of water and consult a doctor.
x When not using your camcorder for a
long time
Periodically turn on the camcorder and play a
cassette for about 3 minutes.
Use up the battery pack completely before
storing it.
Moisture condensation
If your camcorder is brought directly from a
cold place to a warm place, moisture may
condense inside your camcorder, on the
surface of the tape, or on the lens. In this
state, the tape may stick to the head drum
and be damaged or your camcorder may not
operate correctly. If there is moisture inside
your camcorder, [%Z Moisture
condensation. Eject the cassette] or [%
Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H.]
appears. The indicator will not appear when
the moisture condenses on the lens.
x If moisture condensation has occurred
None of the functions except cassette
ejection will work. Eject the cassette, turn
off your camcorder, and leave it for about
one hour with the cassette lid open. Your
camcorder can be used again when both of
the following conditions are met:
On using your camcorder
Maintenance and precautions (Continued)
63
Additional Information
The warning message does not appear when the
power is turned on.
•Neither % or Z flash when a cassette is inserted
and video operation buttons are touched.
If moisture starts to condense, your
camcorder sometimes cannot detect
condensation. If this happens, the cassette is
sometimes not ejected for 10 seconds after
the cassette lid is opened. This is not a
malfunction. Do not close the cassette lid
until the cassette is ejected.
x Note on moisture condensation
Moisture may condense when you bring
your camcorder from a cold place into a
warm place (or vice versa) or when you use
your camcorder in a humid place as shown
below.
When you bring your camcorder from a ski
slope into a place warmed up by a heating
device.
When you bring your camcorder from an air
conditioned car or room into a hot place outside.
When you use your camcorder after a squall or a
shower.
When you use your camcorder in a hot and
humid place.
x How to avoid moisture condensation
When you bring your camcorder from a
cold place into a warm place, put your
camcorder in a plastic bag and seal it
tightly. Remove the bag when the air
temperature inside the plastic bag has
reached the surrounding temperature (after
about one hour).
Video head
It is recommended you use a cleaning
cassette (optional) before recording
anything important.
If the video heads are dirty, video or sound
distortion may be apparent.
If the following problem occurs, clean the video
heads for 10 seconds with the Sony DVM-
12CLD cleaning cassette (optional).
Mosaic-pattern noise appears on the playback
picture or the screen is displayed in blue.
Playback pictures do not move.
Playback pictures do not appear or the sound
breaks off.
–[x Dirty video head. Use a cleaning
cassette.] appears on the screen during
recording/playback.
The video heads will wear after long use. If you
cannot obtain a clear image even after using a
cleaning cassette (optional), it might be because
the video heads are worn. Please contact your
Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service
facility to have the video heads replaced.
LCD screen
Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD
screen, as it may cause damage.
If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a
residual image may appear on the LCD screen.
This is not a malfunction.
While using your camcorder, the back of the
LCD screen may heat up. This is not a
malfunction.
x To clean the LCD screen
If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen
dirty, it is recommended you use a soft
cloth to clean it. When you use the LCD
Cleaning Kit (optional), do not apply the
cleaning liquid directly to the LCD screen.
Use cleaning paper moistened with the
liquid.
x On adjustment of the touch panel
(CALIBRATION)
The buttons on the touch panel may not
work correctly. If this happens, follow the
procedure below. It is recommended you
connect your camcorder to the wall outlet
(wall socket) using the supplied AC
Adaptor during the operation.
1 Turn off the power, then slide the POWER
switch repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/
EDIT lamp while pressing DISP/BATT
INFO on your camcorder, and keep
pressing down DISP/BATT INFO for
about 5 seconds.
Continued ,
64
2 Touch the “×” displayed on the screen with
the corner of the “Memory Stick” or the
like.
The position of the “×” changes. If you did
not press the right spot, start from step
2
again.
You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is
rotated.
On handling the casing
If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body
with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water,
and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth.
Avoid the following to avoid damage to the
finish.
Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,
alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide
and sunscreen.
Handling with above substances on your
hands.
Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or
vinyl objects for a long period of time.
About care and storage of the lens
Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft
cloth in the following instances:
When there are fingerprints on the lens
surface.
In hot or humid locations
When the lens is exposed to salty air such as
at the seaside.
Store in a well-ventilated location subject to
little dirt or dust.
To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as
described above. It is recommended that you
operate your camcorder about once a month to
keep it in optimum state for a long time.
To remove dust from inside the
viewfinder
1 Pull out the viewfinder.
2 While pushing in the tab on the side
with a fine-tipped implement such as a
ball point pen, pull the eyecup block in
the direction of the arrow to remove.
3 Remove dust from the eyecup block
with a camera blower, etc.
4 Press the viewfinder onto the body of
the camcorder.
5 Remove dust from the inside area where
the eyecup block was attached with a
camera blower, etc.
Tab
Maintenance and precautions (Continued)
65
Additional Information
6 Attach the eyecup block to the
viewfinder, pushing it straight on until it
clicks.
b Notes
The eyecup block is a precision part. Do not
disassemble it further.
Do not touch the lens of the eyecup block.
On charging the pre-installed
rechargeable battery
Your camcorder has a pre-installed
rechargeable battery to retain the date, time,
and other settings even when the POWER
switch is set to OFF(CHG). The pre-
installed rechargeable battery is always
charged while your camcorder is connected
to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC
Adaptor or while the battery pack is
attached. The rechargeable battery will be
fully discharged in about 3 months if
you do not use your camcorder at all
without the AC Adaptor connected or the
battery pack attached. Use your camcorder
after charging the pre-installed
rechargeable battery.
However, even if the pre-installed
rechargeable battery is not charged, the
camcorder operation will not be affected as
long as you are not recording the date.
x Procedures
Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet
(wall socket) using the supplied AC
Adaptor, and leave it with the POWER
switch set to OFF(CHG) for more than 24
hours.
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
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
SP: 60 min (using a DVM60 cassette)
LP: 90 min (using a DVM60 cassette)
Fast forward/rewind time
Approx. 2 min 40 s (using a DVM60
cassette and rechargeable battery pack)
Approx. 1 min 45 s (using a DVM60
cassette and AC Adaptor)
Viewfinder
Electric viewfinder (color)
Image device
3.0 mm (1/6 type) CCD (Charge
Coupled Device)
Gross: Approx. 800 000 pixels
Effective (movie): Approx. 400 000
pixels
Lens
Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar
40 × (Optical), 2 000 × (Digital)
Focal length
f=1.9 ~ 76 mm (3/32 ~ 3 in.)
When converted to a 35 mm still
camera
In CAMERA: 36 ~ 1 440 mm (1 7/16 ~
56 3/4 in.)
F1.8 ~ 4.1
Filter diameter: 30 mm (1 3/16 in.)
Continued ,
66
Color temperature
[AUTO], [ONE PUSH], [INDOOR]
(3 200 K), [OUTDOOR] (5 800 K)
Minimum illumination
11 lx (lux) (F 1.8)
0 lx (lux) (during NightShot plus
function)
Input/Output connectors
A/V Remote Connector
10-pin connector
Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms)
Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms)
Chrominance signal: 0.3 Vp-p, 75 Ω
(ohms)
Audio signal: 327 mV (at load
impedance 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Output
impedance with less than 2.2 kΩ
(kilohms)
USB jack (DCR-HC53E/HC54E)
mini-B
DV input/output jack (DCR-HC52E/
HC54E)
i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin
connector S100)
DV output jack (DCR-HC51E/HC53E)
i.LINK Interface (IEEE1394, 4-pin
connector S100)
LCD screen
Picture
6.2 cm (2.5 type)
Total dot number
123 200 (560 × 220)
General
Power requirements
DC 6.8 V/7.2 V (battery pack)
DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor)
Average power consumption
During camera recording using the
viewfinder 1.8 W
During camera recording using the
LCD 2.1 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.)
63 × 85 × 114 mm
(2 1/2 × 3 3/8 × 4 1/2 in.) (w/h/d)
including the projecting parts
63 × 85 × 115 mm
(2 1/2 × 3 3/8 × 4 5/8 in.) (w/h/d)
including the projecting parts with
supplied battery pack NP-FH30
attached
Mass (approx.)
380g(13oz) main unit only
440g(15oz) including the NP-FH30
rechargeable battery pack and DVM60
cassette.
Supplied accessories
See page 9.
AC Adaptor AC-L200/L200B
Power requirements
AC 100 V - 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Current consumption
0.35 - 0.18 A
Power consumption
18 W
Output voltage
DC 8.4 V*
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.)
48 × 29 × 81 mm (1 15/16 × 1 3/16 ×
3 1/4 in.) (w/h/d) excluding the
projecting parts
Mass (approx.)
170 g (6.0 oz) excluding the power cord
(mains lead)
Specifications (Continued)
67
Additional Information
* See the label on the AC Adaptor for
other specifications.
Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FH30)
Maximum output voltage
DC 8.4 V
Output voltage
DC 7.2 V
Capacity
3.6 Wh (500 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.
On trademarks
“Handycam” and are
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.
“InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.
i.LINK and are trademarks of Sony
Corporation.
is a trademark.
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Media,
Windows Vista, and DirectX are either
registered trademarks or trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/
or other countries.
Macintosh and Mac OS are registered
trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other
countries.
Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks or
registered trademarks of Intel Corporation or its
subsidiaries in the United States and other
countries.
Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat are
either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United
States and/or other countries.
All other product names mentioned herein may be
the trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies. Furthermore, ™ and “®”
are not mentioned in each case in this manual.
68
Quick Reference
Identifying parts and controls
The numbers in ( ) are reference pages.
A NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch (20)
B Power zoom lever (20)
C OPEN/EJECT lever (16)
D Hooks for a shoulder belt
Attach a shoulder belt (optional).
E Grip belt (15)
F Lens (Carl Zeiss Lens) (5)
G LENS COVER switch (15)
H Internal stereo microphone (34)
I Infrared port (20)
69
Quick Reference
A DISP/BATT INFO button (11, 15)
B EASY button (17)
C RESET button
Initializes all the settings, including the
setting of the date and time.
D LCD screen/touch panel (15, 71)
E Zoom buttons (20)
F REC START/STOP button (17, 19)
G Speaker
Playback sounds comes out from the
speaker. For how to adjust the volume,
see page 22.
H BATT (battery release) PUSH button
(11)
I CHG (charge) lamp (10)
J For DCR-HC53E/HC54E:
(USB) jack
K . (back light) button (21)
Continued ,
70
A POWER switch (13)
B Viewfinder (15)
C Eyecup (64)
D Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (15)
E For DCR-HC51E/HC53E:
DV OUT interface (43)
For DCR-HC52E/HC54E:
DV interface (43, 45)
F DC IN jack (10)
G A/V Remote Connector (26, 43)
H CAMERA, PLAY/EDIT lamp (13)
I REC START/STOP button (17, 19)
J Tripod receptacle
Attach the tripod (optional: the length of
the screw must be less than 5.5 mm
(7/32 in.)) to the tripod receptacle using
a tripod screw.
Identifying parts and controls (Continued)
71
Quick Reference
Indicators displayed during recording/playback
A Remaining battery (approx.)
B Recording mode (SP or LP) (41)
C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or
[REC] (recording))
D Recording: Tape counter (hour:
minute: second)
Playback: Time code (hour: minute:
second: frame)
E Recording capacity of the tape (approx.)
(41)
F Function button (28)
G Guide button (23)
H Tape transport indicator
I Video operation buttons (22)
Recording
Viewing
123 4 5
67
128 4 5
6
7
9
Continued ,
72
You can use [DISP GUIDE] (p. 72) to
check the function of each indicator that
appears on the LCD screen.
b Notes
Some of the indicators may not appear when
you use [DISP GUIDE].
Upper left
Upper right
Center
Bottom
b Notes
The content and the position of the indicator are
normal. It may differ from the actual display.
The date/time during recording and the
camera setting data will be recorded
automatically. They do not appear on the
screen during recording, but you can check
them as [DATA CODE] during playback
(p. 33).
You can easily check the meaning of each
indicator that appears on the LCD screen.
1 Touch [GUIDE] t [DISP GUIDE].
2 Touch the area including the indicator that
you want to check.
The meanings of the indicators in the area
are listed on the screen. If you cannot find
the indicator you want to check, touch
[PAGE r]/[PAGE R] to toggle.
Indicators when you made
changes
Indicator Meaning
AUDIO MODE (41)
Indicator Meaning
DV input (45)
Indicator Meaning
NightShot plus (20)
% Z Warning (56)
Indicator Meaning
Flexible spot meter (30)/
Manual exposure (31)
9 Manual focus (29)
.
Backlight (21)
0:00:00STBY
FN
GUIDE
60min
60min
+
EDIT
/
Upper left Upper right
Bottom Center
SCENE SEL. (30)
Picture effect (37)
n White balance (32)
Wide select (38)
SteadyShot off (38)
EDITSEARCH (38)
Data code during recording
Checking the screen indicators
(Display guide)
Indicator Meaning
+
EDIT
/
Indicators displayed during recording/playback (Continued)
73
Quick Reference
To finish the operation, touch [END].
z Tips
You can also operate by touching t
[DISP GUIDE].
74
Index
Numeric
12BIT....................................41
16BIT....................................41
16:9 WIDE ...........................38
21-pin adaptor.......................27
4:3.........................................38
A
A DUB CTRL
(Audio dubbing) ...................34
AC Adaptor ..........................10
AUDIO MIX ........................35
AUDIO MODE ....................41
A.SHUT OFF
(Auto shut off)......................42
A/V connecting cable .....26, 43
B
Backlight ........................21, 53
Battery ............................10, 60
BEACH ................................31
BEEP ....................................32
BLACK ................................32
B&W ....................................37
C
CALIBRATION...................63
CAM DATA.........................33
CAMERA SET menu ...........38
Cassette...........................16, 59
CD-ROM..............................47
Charging time .......................11
Cleaning cassette ..................63
CLOCK SET ........................13
Computer..............................47
D
D ZOOM (Digital zoom)......38
DATA CODE.................33, 72
DATE/TIME ............13, 33, 72
DEMO MODE .....................41
DISP GUIDE
(Display guide) .................... 72
DISP OUT
(Display output) ................... 42
Display indicators ................ 71
Dubbing ............................... 43
E
Easy Handycam ............. 17, 28
EDITSEARCH............... 24, 38
END SCH
(END SEARCH)............ 24, 53
EXPOSURE......................... 31
F
FADER ................................ 31
First Step Guide ............. 47, 50
Flexible spot meter............... 30
FOCUS........................... 29, 53
Frame-by-frame Playback.... 34
G
Getting started........................ 9
GUIDEFRAME ................... 42
I
INDOOR.............................. 32
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
............................................. 60
Install ................................... 48
i.LINK.................................. 61
i.LINK cable .................. 43, 45
L
LANDSCAPE...................... 30
LANGUAGE ....................... 41
LCD ..................................... 42
LCD BRT (LCD bright) ...... 33
LCD B.L. (LCD back light). 40
LCD COLOR....................... 40
LCD screen .......................... 15
LCD/VF SET menu ............. 40
LETTER BOX......................40
LP (Long Play) .....................41
M
MANUAL SET menu .......... 37
Menu...............................28, 36
Mirror mode .........................21
Moisture condensation .........62
MONOTONE .......................32
MOSAIC ..............................37
MOSC. FADER ...................32
N
NEG.ART.............................37
NightShot plus......................20
NTSC....................................58
N.S.LIGHT
(NightShot Light) .................39
O
ONE PUSH ..........................32
Operation button...................28
OTHERS menu ....................42
OUTDOOR ..........................32
P
P EFFECT (Picture effect) ...37
PAL ................................54, 58
PASTEL ...............................37
Picture Motion Browser .......47
Playback ...................18, 22, 54
PLAYER SET menu ............39
Playing time.......................... 12
PORTRAIT (Soft portrait) ...30
R
REC CTRL (Recording
control) .................................45
REC MODE
(Recording mode).................41
Rec review............................24
75
Quick Reference
Recording..................17, 19, 53
Recording time .....................12
REMAIN ..............................41
Reversal Playback.................34
S
S VIDEO cable ...............26, 43
SCENE SEL. ........................30
Searching for the starting point
..............................................24
SEPIA ...................................37
SETUP MENU menu ...........41
SNOW ..................................31
SOLARIZE...........................37
SP (Standard Play)................41
Specifications........................65
SPORT (Sports lesson).........31
SPOT FOCUS.......................29
SPOT METER
............See Flexible spot meter
SPOTLIGHT ........................30
SQUEEZE ............................40
STEADYSHOT ..............38, 53
SUNRSSUNST
(Sunrise & Sunset)................30
T
Tape counter .........................71
TAPE SET menu ..................41
Time code .............................71
Tripod ...................................70
TV.........................................26
TV color systems ..................58
TWILIGHT...........................30
U
USAGE GUIDE....................23
USB STREAM .....................41
Using abroad.........................58
V
V SPD PLAY
(Various speed playback)..... 33
VCR SET menu ................... 39
VF B.L.
(Viewfinder back light) ........40
VOL (Volume).....................22
V-OUT/LCD ........................ 42
W
Warning indicators...............56
Warning messages................ 57
WHITE................................. 31
WHT BAL
(White balance) ....................32
WIDE DISP
(Wide display)......................40
WIDE SEL
(Wide select) ........................ 38
WORLD TIME ....................42
Write-protect tab .................. 59
Z
Zoom ....................................20
http://www.sony.net/
Printed in Japan
Additional information on this product and answers
to frequently asked questions can be found at our
Customer Support Website.
GB
58

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