hit counter script
Sony Handycam DCR-HC36 Operating Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Sony Manuals
  4. Camcorder
  5. DCR-HC36 - MiniDV Digital Handycam Camcorder
  6. Operating manual

Sony Handycam DCR-HC36 Operating Manual

Digital video camera recorder
Hide thumbs Also See for Handycam DCR-HC36:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

See also: Service Manual , Operating Manual
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
DCR-HC36/HC46/HC96
© 2006 Sony Corporation
2-659-813-11(1)
Getting Started
Recording/
Playback
Using the Menu
Dubbing/Editing
Using a Computer
Troubleshooting
Additional Information
12
28
44
71
86
99
122

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Related Manuals for Sony Handycam DCR-HC36

Summary of Contents for Sony Handycam DCR-HC36

  • Page 1 Digital Video Camera Recorder Operating Guide DCR-HC36/HC46/HC96 © 2006 Sony Corporation 2-659-813-11(1) Getting Started Recording/ Playback Using the Menu Dubbing/Editing Using a Computer Troubleshooting Additional Information...
  • Page 2 WARNING To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

  • Page 3: Important Safeguards

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS For your protection, please read these safety instructions completely before operating the appliance, and keep this manual for future reference. Carefully observe all warnings, precautions and instructions on the appliance, or the one described in the operating instructions and adhere to them.

  • Page 4: Replacement Parts

    IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS (Continued) Lightning For added protection for this set during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the set due to lightning and power-line surges.

  • Page 5: Read This First

    This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. For customers in the U.S.A. If you have any questions about this product, you may call: Sony Customer Information Center 1-800- 222-SONY (7669). The number below is for the FCC related matters only. Regulatory Information...

  • Page 6: Declaration Of Conformity

    Owner’s Record The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. DCR-HC Serial No.
  • Page 7 Types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder There are two sizes of “Memory Stick.” You can use “Memory Stick Duo” marked with (p. 124). “Memory Stick Duo” (This size can be used with your camcorder.) “Memory Stick” (You cannot use it in your camcorder.) •...
  • Page 8 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 video cameras and offers a quality typical of a Carl Zeiss lens.

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS ... 3 Read this first ...5 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items ...12 Step 2: Charging the battery pack ...13 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ...18 Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder ...20 Step 5: Using the touch panel ...21 Changing the language setting ...
  • Page 10 Other part names and functions Indicators displayed during recording/playback ... 36 Searching for the starting point ... 39 Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) ... 39 Searching manually (EDIT SEARCH) ... 39 Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review) ... 39 Remote Commander ...
  • Page 11 Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer) ...82 Jacks to connect external devices ...84 Using a Computer Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer ...86 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer ...89 Viewing “First Step Guide” ...93 Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) ...94 Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (DCR-HC96) ...97...

  • Page 12: 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. • The cassette tape and “Memory Stick Duo” are not supplied. See page 6, 123, 124, for compatible cassettes and “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 13: Step 2: Charging The Battery Pack

    Step 2: Charging the battery pack You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series) (p. 126) after attaching it to your camcorder. For DCR-HC46/HC96: POWER switch DC IN jack Handycam DC plug Station To the wall outlet AC Adaptor Power cord For DCR-HC36: POWER switch...
  • Page 14 Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued) For DCR-HC36: With the v mark facing to the LCD screen For DCR-HC46/HC96: Connect the power cord to the AC Adaptor and the wall outlet. Insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station securely, all the way to the bottom.
  • Page 15 POWER switch With the v mark facing to the LCD screen DC plug To the wall outlet Power cord For DCR-HC46/HC96: To remove your camcorder from the Handycam Station Turn off the power, then remove the camcorder from the Handycam Station holding both your camcorder and the Handycam Station.
  • Page 16 Step2: Charging the battery pack (Continued) DCR-HC36 Continuous Battery pack recording time NP-FP30 (supplied) NP-FP50 NP-FP70 NP-FP71 NP-FP90 • All times measured under the following conditions: Top: Recording with LCD screen. Bottom: Recording with viewfinder while the LCD panel closed. * Typical recording time shows the time when you repeat recording start/stop, turning the power on/off and zooming.
  • Page 17 DCR-HC46 LCD panel Battery pack opened* NP-FP50 (supplied) NP-FP70 NP-FP71 NP-FP90 * When the LCD backlight turns on. DCR-HC96 LCD panel Battery pack opened* NP-FP50 (supplied) NP-FP70 NP-FP71 NP-FP90 * When the LCD backlight turns on. On the battery pack •...

  • Page 18: Step 3: Turning The Power On And Holding Your Camcorder Firmly

    Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly To record or play back, slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp. When using it for the first time, the [CLOCK SET] screen appears (p. 23). Slide the POWER switch repeatedly in the direction of the arrow to turn on the respective...
  • Page 19 To turn off the power Slide the POWER switch to OFF (CHG). For DCR-HC36/HC46: Attach the lens cap after turning off the power. • At the time of purchase, the power will be 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.

  • Page 20: Step 4: Adjusting The Lcd Panel And Viewfinder

    Step 4: Adjusting the LCD panel and viewfinder The LCD panel Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it to the best angle to record or play (2). DISP/BATT INFO 180 degrees (max.) 90 degrees to 90 degrees the camcorder (max.)

  • Page 21: Step 5: Using The Touch Panel

    Step 5: Using the touch panel You can play back recorded pictures (p. 31), or change the settings (p. 44) using the touch panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen.
  • Page 22 Step 5: Using the touch panel (Continued) Touch the area including the indicator that you want to check. DISP GUIDE FOCUS: MANUAL PROGRAM AE: SPOTLIGHT STEADYSHOT: The meanings of the indicators in the area are listed on the screen. If you cannot find the indicator you want to check, touch When you touch...

  • Page 23: Step 6: Setting The Date And Time

    Step 6: 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.

  • Page 24: Step 7: Inserting A Tape Or A "Memory Stick Duo

    Step 7: Inserting a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo” Cassette tape You can use mini DV (p. 123). • The recordable time varies depending on REC MODE] (p. 65). Slide and hold the EJECT lever in the direction of the arrow and open the lid.

  • Page 25: Memory Stick Duo

    “Memory Stick Duo” You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo” marked with (p. 124). • The number and time of recordable pictures varies depending on the image quality or the image size. For details, see page 56. Open the LCD panel. Insert the “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 26: Step 8: Selecting The Aspect Ratio (16:9 Or 4:3) Of The Recording Picture (Dcr-Hc46/Hc96)

    Step 8: Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording picture (DCR-HC46/HC96) By recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode, you can enjoy wide-angle, high-quality pictures. • If you intend to view pictures on a wide TV, recording in the 16:9 (wide) mode is recommended.

  • Page 28: 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. DCR-HC36/HC46: Remove the lens cap (p. 18). DCR-HC36: Movies Slide the POWER...
  • Page 29 Playing back movies/still images Slide the POWER switch E to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Touch the buttons on the screen B as follows. Movies Touch A Stop B Play/Pause toggles C Rewind/Fast forward x To cancel Easy Handycam operation Press EASY A again.

  • Page 30: Recording

    Recording Lens cap (DCR-HC36/HC46) Remove the lens cap by pressing both knobs on the sides of the cap. Lens cover (DCR-HC96) Opens in accordance with the setting of the POWER switch. DCR-HC36: REC START/STOP B Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp to select a recording medium.

  • Page 31: Playback

    Playback Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Start playing back. Movies On a Tape: Touch , then touch start playback. A Stop B Play/Pause toggles as you touch it •...

  • Page 32: Functions Used For Recording/Playback, Etc

    Functions used for recording/playback, etc. For DCR-HC36: For DCR-HC46: For DCR-HC96: Recording To use zoom ... 2 5 Move the power zoom lever 2 slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom. Wider range of view: (Wide angle) Close view: (Telephoto) •...
  • Page 33 • Remove any dust from the surface of the flash lamp before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if heat discoloration or dust obscures the lamp. • The flash charge lamp flickers when charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge is complete (In the CAMERA-TAPE mode, it takes a while to fully charge the flash lamp).
  • Page 34 Functions used for recording/playback, etc. (Continued) For DCR-HC36: For DCR-HC46/HC96: To record in mirror mode ... qh Open the LCD panel qh 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side (2). • A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the picture will be normal when recorded.
  • Page 35 To cancel, touch [END]. • You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons 5 on the LCD frame. Recording/playback To check the remaining battery (Battery Info) ... qd Set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG), then press DISP/BATT INFO qd. The battery information appears for about 7 seconds.

  • Page 36: Indicators Displayed During Recording/Playback

    Indicators displayed during recording/playback Recording movies In the CAMERA-TAPE mode A Remaining battery (approx.) B Recording mode (SP or LP) (65) C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] (recording)) D Recording: Tape counter (hour: minute: second) Playback: Tape counter (hour: minute: second)/Time code (hour: minute: second: frame) E Recording capacity of the tape (approx.)

  • Page 37: Viewing Movies

    ( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies On a tape M Tape transport indicator N Video operation buttons (31) On a “Memory Stick Duo” 0:00:00 A Data file name B Play/Pause button (31) C Previous/Next image button (31) D Image size (58) E Playing time...
  • Page 38 Indicators displayed during recording/playback (Continued) Indicators when you made changes You can use the [DISP GUIDE] (p. 21) to check the function of each indicator that appears on the LCD screen. • Some of the indicators may not appear when you use [DISP GUIDE].

  • Page 39: Searching For The Starting Point

    Searching for the starting point Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE lamp lights up (p. 30). Searching for the last scene of the most recent recording (END SEARCH) [END SEARCH] will not work once you eject the cassette after you have recorded on the tape.

  • Page 40: Remote Commander

    Remote Commander Remove the insulation sheet before using the Remote Commander. Insulation sheet A PHOTO* (p. 30) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded onto the “Memory Stick Duo” as a still image. B SEARCH M. (p. 41)* C .

  • Page 41: Searching For A Scene By Date Of Recording (Date Search)

    Press PLAY 4. Playback starts from the point designated “0:00:00” on the tape counter. To cancel the operation Press ZERO SET MEMORY 5 again before rewinding. • There may be a discrepancy of several seconds between the time code and the tape counter. •...

  • Page 42: Playing The Picture On A Tv

    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 using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p.
  • Page 43 A A/V connecting cable (supplied) For DCR-HC46/HC96: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks (p. 84). Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup. 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...

  • Page 44: Using The Menu

    Using the Menu Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed after this page. Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the respective lamp. CAMERA-TAPE lamp: CAMERA-MEMORY lamp: Duo”...
  • Page 45 After finishing the settings, touch If you decide not to change the setting, touch x To use menu items during Easy Handycam operation is not displayed during Easy Handycam operation (p. 28). 60min EASY STBY MENU 1 Touch [MENU]. The menu index screen appears. 2 Select the desired menu.

  • Page 46: Menu Items

    Menu items CAMERA SET menu PROGRAM AE SPOT METER EXPOSURE WHITE BAL. SHARPNESS* AUTO SHUTTER AE SHIFT* SPOT FOCUS FOCUS TELE MACRO FLASH SET* SUPER NSPLUS* SUPER NS* NS LIGHT COLOR SLOW S ZEBRA* SELF-TIMER DIGITAL ZOOM WIDE SELECT* STEADYSHOT PROGRES.REC* MEMORY SET menu STILL SET...
  • Page 47 PICT.APPLI. menu FADER SLIDE SHOW D. EFFECT PICT. EFFECT FRAME REC* SMTH INT.REC* INT.REC-STL DEMO MODE PictBridge PRINT USB SELECT EDIT/PLAY menu VAR. SPD PB REC CTRL AUD DUB CTRL REC MOVIE BURN DVD BURN VCD END SEARCH DCR-HC96 DCR-HC36/HC46 DCR-HC36 DCR-HC46/HC96 Cannot be operated in the CAMERA-TAPE mode.
  • Page 48 Menu items (Continued) STANDARD SET menu REC MODE AUDIO MODE VOLUME MULTI-SOUND AUDIO MIX LCD/VF SET A/V t DV OUT* VIDEO INPUT* TV TYPE* USB CAMERA DISP GUIDE GUIDEFRAME* DATA CODE REMAINING REMOTE CTRL REC LAMP* BEEP DISP OUTPUT MENU ROTATE A.SHUT OFF CALIBRATION TIME/LANGU.

  • Page 49: Camera Set Menu

    CAMERA SET menu Settings to adjust your camcorder to the recording conditions (EXPOSURE/WHITE BAL./STEADYSHOT, etc.) The default settings are marked with B. The indicators in parentheses appear when the items are selected. See page 44 for details on selecting menu items. PROGRAM AE You can record pictures effectively in various situations with the PROGRAM AE...
  • Page 50 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) 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] t [END]. • If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL].
  • Page 51 • Redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure if you change the [PROGRAM AE] settings, or bring your camcorder outdoors from inside the house, or vice versa. • Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent lamps. •...
  • Page 52 CAMERA SET menu (Continued) TELE MACRO This is useful to shoot small subjects, such as flowers or insects. You can blur out backgrounds and the subject stands out clearer. When you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON] ), the zoom (p. 32) moves to the top of the T (Telephoto) side automatically and allows for recording subjects at a close distance as follows:...
  • Page 53 recording if you set [SUPER NS] to [ON] while the NIGHTSHOT switch (p. 33) is also set to ON. and [“SUPER NIGHTSHOT”] appear on the screen. To cancel the setting, set [SUPER NS] to [OFF] or set the NIGHTSHOT switch to OFF.

  • Page 54: Digital Zoom

    CAMERA SET menu (Continued) DIGITAL ZOOM You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 20 × (DCR-HC36)/12 × (DCR-HC46)/ 10 × (DCR-HC96) (the default setting) while recording on a tape. Note that the image quality decreases when you are using the digital zoom.

  • Page 55: Memory Set Menu

    STEADYSHOT You can compensate for camera shake (the default setting is [ON]). Set [STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( using a tripod (optional) or the conversion lens (optional), then the image becomes natural. PROGRES.REC (DCR-HC96) You can reduce image blur when recording moving pictures on tapes, intended for import to your computer as still images, by setting [PROGRES.REC] to [ON] (...
  • Page 56 MEMORY SET menu (Continued) • [BURST] can be set only when the POWER switch is set to CAMERA-MEMORY. • [BURST] cannot be set during Easy Handycam operation. • The maximum number of images will be recorded in the self-timer mode or when you are operating with the Remote Commander.
  • Page 57 • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending on the recording environment. • For DCR-HC36: When recording still images, the size is always fixed to VGA (640 × 480). In 16:9 aspect ratio (DCR-HC46/HC96) 2.3M*...
  • Page 58 512MB 01:25:20 02:50:40 05:41:20 • When using the “Memory Stick Duo” made by Sony Corporation. The recordable time varies depending on the recording environment. ALL ERASE Deletes all the pictures on a “Memory Stick Duo” without image protection, or in the selected folder.

  • Page 59: Pict.appli. Menu

    NEW FOLDER You can create a new folder (102MSDCF to 999MSDCF) on a “Memory Stick Duo.” When 9,999 images are stored in the current folder, a new folder is automatically created for storing subsequent images. Touch [YES] t • You cannot delete the created folders using your camcorder.
  • Page 60 PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued) OVERLAP (fade in only) WIPE (fade in only) DOT FADER (fade in only) Using the viewfinder You can adjust [EXPOSURE] and [FADER] while using the viewfinder by having the LCD panel rotated 180 degrees and closed with the screen facing out. 1 Make sure that the CAMERA-TAPE or the CAMERA-MEMORY lamp lights up.
  • Page 61 Effect Items to adjust LUMI. KEY The color scheme of the area in the still image which is to be swapped with a movie. TRAIL The fade time of the incidental image. SLOW Shutter speed (1 is 1/30, 2 SHUTTR* is 1/15, 3 is 1/8, 4 is 1/4).
  • Page 62 PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued) PICT. EFFECT (Picture effect) You can add special effects to a picture during recording or playback. B OFF Does not use [PICT. EFFECT] setting. NEG.ART The color and brightness are reversed. SEPIA Pictures appear in sepia. B&W Pictures appear in black and white.
  • Page 63 To resume, touch [REC START]. To cancel, touch [REC STOP], then [END] in step 2. • During Smooth interval recording, your camcorder may perform the END SEARCH function to locate the end in current recordings on the tape after several frames have been recorded.

  • Page 64: Edit/Play Menu

    PICT.APPLI. menu (Continued) BURN VCD Select this to burn the picture recorded on the tape onto a CD-R. Refer to “First Step Guide” on the supplied CD-ROM for details (p. 93). • During Easy Handycam operation, [ STREAM] and [BURN VCD] cannot be set. EDIT/PLAY menu Settings for editing or playing back in various modes (VAR.SPD PB/END...

  • Page 65: End Search, Etc.)

    (Recording control) See page 77. BURN DVD When your camcorder is connected to a Sony VAIO series personal computer, you can easily burn the picture recorded on the tape on a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) (p. 94).

  • Page 66: Audio Mix

    STANDARD SET menu (Continued) B STEREO Plays back with main and sub sound (or stereo sound). Plays back with main sound (or the left channel sound). Plays back with sub sound (or the right channel sound). • You can play back, but cannot record a dual sound track cassette on your camcorder.
  • Page 67 A/V t DV OUT (DCR-HC96) When you set [A/V t DV OUT] ( to [ON], you can convert analog signals to digital by connecting a digital device and an analog device to your camcorder. See page 97 for details. VIDEO INPUT (DCR-HC96) Selects the video plug to connect when you input the picture from the other device via A/V connecting cable.

  • Page 68: Disp Output

    STANDARD SET menu (Continued) • During Easy Handycam operation, you can set [DATE/TIME] only. • For DCR-HC96: appears for a picture recorded using a flash. REMAINING B AUTO Displays the remaining tape indicator for about 8 seconds in situations such as those described below.

  • Page 69: Time/Langu. Menu

    TIME/LANGU. menu (CLOCK SET/WORLD TIME/LANGUAGE) See page 44 for details on selecting menu items. CLOCK SET See page 23. WORLD TIME When using your camcorder abroad, you can set the time difference by touching , the clock will be adjusted in accordance with the time difference.
  • Page 70 Customizing Personal Menu (Continued) Deleting a menu item Touch t [P-MENU SET UP] t [DELETE]. If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch 60min STBY Select button to delete. MENU TELE MACRO SPOT FOCUS Touch the menu item that you want to delete.

  • Page 71: Dubbing/Editing

    Dubbing/Editing Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc. You can copy the picture played back on your camcorder to other recording devices (VCR/ DVD device, etc.). You can connect your camcorder to a VCR/DVD device, etc., 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 using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p.
  • Page 72 Dubbing to VCR/DVD device, etc. (Continued) DCR-HC46/HC96: A/V or A/V OUT jack : Signal flow A A/V connecting cable (supplied) For DCR-HC46/HC96: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks (p. 84). Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup.
  • Page 73 Prepare your camcorder for playback. Insert the recorded cassette. For DCR-HC46/HC96: Set [TV TYPE] according to the playback device (TV, etc.) (p. 43). Prepare your VCR/DVD device for recording. When dubbing to the VCR, insert a cassette for recording. When dubbing to the DVD recorder, insert a DVD for recording.

  • Page 74: Recording Pictures From A Tv Or Vcr/Dvd Device, Etc

    Recording pictures from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc. You can record pictures or TV programs from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc., on a tape or a “Memory Stick Duo.” You can also record a scene as a still image on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Be sure to insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo”...
  • Page 75 DCR-HC46/HC96: A/V jack (DCR-HC96) AUDIO/VIDEO jacks To S VIDEO jack DV Interface (i.LINK) : Signal flow A For DCR-HC96: A/V connecting cable (supplied) The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup.
  • Page 76 Recording pictures from a TV or VCR/DVD device, etc. (Continued) Recording movies Connect your TV or VCR/DVD device to your camcorder as a playback device. Connect your camcorder to the output jacks of a TV or VCR/DVD device. If you are recording from a VCR/ DVD device, insert a cassette or a DVD.

  • Page 77: Dubbing Pictures From A Tape To A "Memory Stick Duo

    Dubbing pictures from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo” You can record movies or still images on a “Memory Stick Duo.” Make sure you have a recorded tape and a “Memory Stick Duo” inserted into your camcorder. • For DCR-HC46/HC96: Do not insert/eject the cassette while your camcorder is on the Handycam Station.

  • Page 78: Dubbing Sound To A Recorded Tape

    Dubbing sound to a recorded tape You can add sound to a tape already recorded in the 12-bit mode (p. 65) without erasing the original sound. Connecting : Signal flow For DCR-HC96: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. Connect the A/V connecting cable either to the Handycam Station or to your camcorder, depending on your setup.

  • Page 79: Recording Sound

    – When the tape has been recorded in a TV color system other than that of your camcorder (p. 122). – When the write-protect tab of the cassette is set to SAVE (p. 123). – On sections recorded in HDV format. •...

  • Page 80: Deleting Recorded Pictures From The "Memory Stick Duo

    Dubbing sound to a recorded tape (Continued) To check the recorded sound 1 Play back the tape on which you have recorded audio (p. 31). t [MENU] t 2 Touch (STANDARD SET) t MIX] t 60min AUDIO MIX 3 Touch to adjust the balance of the original sound (ST1) and the new sound (ST2), then touch...

  • Page 81: Marking Images On The "Memory Stick Duo" With Specific Information

    Marking images on the “Memory Stick Duo” with specific information protection) When you are using a “Memory Stick Duo” with the write-protect tab, make sure the write-protect tab on the “Memory Stick Duo” is not set to the write-protect position (p.

  • Page 82: Printing Recorded Images (Pictbridge Compliant Printer)

    Printing recorded images printer) You can print out pictures using a PictBridge compliant printer without connecting the camcorder to a computer. Connect the AC Adaptor to obtain power from the wall outlet. Insert the “Memory Stick Duo” containing still images into your camcorder and turn on the printer.
  • Page 83 – Disconnect the power cord. – Remove your camcorder from the Handycam Station (DCR-HC46/HC96). – Disconnect the USB cable from your camcorder (DCR-HC36) or the Handycam Station (DCR-HC46/HC96) or the printer. – Remove the “Memory Stick Duo” from your camcorder. •...

  • Page 84: Jacks To Connect External Devices

    Jacks to connect external devices Camcorder DCR-HC36 DCR-HC46 DCR-HC96 Bottom 1 ...Open the shoe cover. 2 - 6 ...Open the jack cover. Handycam Station (DCR-HC46/HC96) A For DCR-HC96: Active Interface Shoe The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone.
  • Page 85 C For DCR-HC96: A/V (audio/video) jack (p. 42, 71, 97) For DCR-HC36/HC46: A/V (audio/video) OUT jack (p. 42, 71) • For DCR-HC46/HC96: The Handycam Station and your camcorder are both equipped with A/V jacks. D (USB) jack (p. 86) DV Interface (i.LINK) (p. 71, 94) F DC IN jack (p.

  • Page 86: Using A Computer

    Using a Computer Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer When you install the Picture Package software on a Windows computer from the supplied CD-ROM, you can enjoy the following operations by connecting your camcorder to your computer. •...

  • Page 87: System Requirements

    – “First Step Guide” About “First Step Guide” “First Step Guide” is an instruction manual you can refer to on your computer. This “First Step Guide” describes basic operations, from initial hookup of your camcorder and computer and making settings, to general operation the first time you use the software stored on the CD- ROM (supplied).

  • Page 88: For Macintosh Users

    Before referring to the “First Step Guide” on your computer (Continued) Others: USB port (This must be provided as standard), disc drive • If your computer has a Memory Stick slot, insert the “Memory Stick Duo” on which pictures are recorded into the Memory Stick Duo Adaptor (optional), then insert it into the Memory Stick slot on your computer to copy still images to the...

  • Page 89: Installing The Software And "First Step Guide" On A Computer

    Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer You need to install the software etc., with the supplied CD-ROM on your computer before connecting your camcorder and your computer. Once installed, no further installation will be necessary. The software to be used varies depending on the computer’s operating system you are using.
  • Page 90 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (Continued) Click [Next]. Read [License Agreement], check [I accept the terms of the license agreement] if you agree, then click [Next]. The software version of Picture Package is displayed as “1.5.” Select where to save the software, then click [Next].
  • Page 91 If the [Installing Microsoft(R) DirectX(R)] screen is displayed, follow the steps below to install DirectX 9.0c. If not, skip to step 1 Read the License Agreement, then click [Next]. 2 Click [Next]. 3 Click [Finish]. Make sure [Yes, I want to restart my computer now.] is checked, then click [Finish].
  • Page 92 Installing the software and “First Step Guide” on a computer (Continued) Installing on a Macintosh computer Confirm that your camcorder is not connected to the computer. Turn on the computer. Close all applications running on the computer before installing the software. Place the CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer.

  • Page 93: Viewing "First Step Guide

    Music Contents without obtaining authorization or approval of the respective owners thereof. License of Picture Package by Sony Corporation would not be construed as conferring to you by implication, estoppel or otherwise, any license or right to use the Music Contents.

  • Page 94: Creating A Dvd (Direct Access To "Click To Dvd")

    DVD”) You can create a DVD from a tape with a Sony VAIO series computer* preinstalled with “Click to DVD Ver.1.2” (Sony original software) or later via an i.LINK cable. The picture is automatically copied and written to a DVD.
  • Page 95 Slide the POWER switch repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/ EDIT lamp. Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder. Connect your camcorder (DCR- HC36) or the Handycam Station (DCR-HC46/HC96) to a computer via an i.LINK cable (p. 94). • When you connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connector in the correct way.
  • Page 96 Creating a DVD (Direct Access to “Click to DVD”) (Continued) • When [CONVERTING] or [WRITING] is displayed on the screen, capturing of pictures has already finished. Even if you disconnect the i.LINK cable or turn off the camcorder at this stage, DVD creation will continue on your computer.

  • Page 97: Connecting An Analog Vcr To The Computer Via Your Camcorder

    Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (DCR- HC96) Using an i.LINK cable (3) and the A/V connecting cable (1) or the A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (2), you can convert an analog signal output from an analog device such as a VCR to a digital signal and transfer it to a digital device, such as a computer, via your camcorder.
  • Page 98 Connecting an analog VCR to the computer via your camcorder (Signal convert function) (Continued) Slide the POWER switch of your camcorder repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. On the LCD screen, touch t [MENU] t SET) t [A/V t DV OUT] t [ON] Start playback on the analog video unit.

  • Page 99: 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 The power does not turn on.
  • Page 100 The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 13). If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be worn-out.
  • Page 101 LCD screen/viewfinder 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. An unknown picture appears on the LCD screen or viewfinder. • The camcorder is in [DEMO MODE] (p. 63). Touch the LCD screen or insert a cassette or a “Memory Stick Duo”...

  • Page 102: Cassette Tapes

    Troubleshooting (Continued) Dots in lines appear on the LCD screen. • This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded. Cassette tapes The cassette cannot be ejected from the compartment. • Make sure the power source (battery pack or AC Adaptor) is connected correctly (p. 13). •...
  • Page 103 You cannot format the “Memory Stick Duo.” • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 124). Image protection cannot be applied. • Release the lock on the write-protect tab of the “Memory Stick Duo” if there is one (p. 124). •...
  • Page 104 Troubleshooting (Continued) • In the following settings, still images cannot be recorded on a “Memory Stick Duo” during tape recording. – [PROGRES.REC] (DCR-HC96) – [SMTH INT.REC] (DCR-HC46/HC96) • For DCR-HC36: You cannot record still images on the “Memory Stick Duo” using [WIDE SELECT] mode (p.
  • Page 105 (DCR-HC46/HC96). • The video head may be dirty. Use a cleaning cassette (optional). • Try again from the beginning. • Use a Sony mini DV cassette. Adjusting the image during recording Refer also to “Menu” (p. 108).
  • Page 106 Troubleshooting (Continued) Tiny spots in white, red, blue, or green appear on the screen. • The spots appear when you are recording in [SLOW SHUTTR], [SUPER NSPLUS] (DCR- HC36/HC46), [SUPER NS] (DCR-HC96), or [COLOR SLOW S]. This is not a malfunction. The color of the picture is not correctly displayed.
  • Page 107 Image data stored on a “Memory Stick Duo” cannot be played back. • Image data cannot be played back if you have modified file or folder names, or have edited the data on a computer (In this case, the file name flashes). This is not a malfunction (p. 125). •...
  • Page 108 Troubleshooting (Continued) Date search does not work correctly. • Be sure to record more than 2 minutes after the date changed. If one day’s recording is too short, your camcorder may not accurately find the point where the recording date changes. •...
  • Page 109 – NightShot (DCR-HC96) – [SUPER NS] (DCR-HC96) – [COLOR SLOW S] – [CINEMA EFECT] of [D. EFFECT] (DCR-HC96) • If you set [PROGRAM AE], [SPOT METER] is automatically set to [AUTO]. You cannot use [EXPOSURE]. • You cannot use [EXPOSURE] together with: –...
  • Page 110 Troubleshooting (Continued) [COLOR SLOW S] does not operate correctly. • [COLOR SLOW S] may not operate correctly in total darkness. Use NightShot plus or [SUPER NSPLUS] (DCR-HC36/HC46)/NightShot or [SUPER NS] (DCR-HC96). • You cannot use [COLOR SLOW S] together with: –...
  • Page 111 Dubbing/Editing/Connecting to other devices Pictures output from the camcorder do not appear on the screen of the connected device (DCR-HC46/HC96). • When attaching the camcorder to the Handycam Station, close the DC IN jack cover on the camcorder, and then fully insert the camcorder into the Handycam Station in the correct way securely (p.
  • Page 112 Troubleshooting (Continued) Movies cannot be dubbed from a tape to a “Memory Stick Duo.” • You cannot record or a distorted picture may be recorded in the following situations: – The tape has a blank section. – The tape has been used repeatedly for recording. –...
  • Page 113 You cannot view the video recorded on a tape on a Macintosh computer. • When you connect your camcorder to a Macintosh computer using the USB cable, you cannot copy pictures recorded on a tape to the computer. To copy recordings from a tape, connect your camcorder to the computer with an i.LINK cable and use the standard software in the OS.
  • Page 114 Troubleshooting (Continued) 6 Turn off the power of your camcorder, disconnect the USB cable, then restart the computer. 7 Place the supplied CD-ROM in the disc drive of your computer. 8 Follow the steps below and try to install the USB driver again. 1 Double-click [My Computer].
  • Page 115 3 Right-click [My Computer], then click [Properties]. The [System Properties] screen appears. 4 Click the [Hardware] tab t [Device Manager] t [View] t [Devices by type]. 5 If the devices below are already installed, right-click them, then click [Uninstall] to delete them.
  • Page 116 Troubleshooting (Continued) The movie is not smooth during USB Streaming. • Change the settings as described in the following procedures: 1 Select [Start] t [Programs] ([All Programs] for Windows XP) t [Picture Package] t [Handycam Tools] t [USB Streaming Tool]. 2 Adjust the slider in the (-) direction on [Select video quality].

  • Page 117: 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...
  • Page 118 Warning indicators and messages (Continued) 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. 123).* Fast flashing: •...

  • Page 119: Moisture Condensation

    x Moisture condensation %Z Moisture condensation. Eject the cassette (p. 129) % Moisture condensation. Turn off for 1H. (p. 129) x Cassette/Tape Q Insert a cassette. (p. 24) Z Reinsert the cassette. (p. 24) • Check if the cassette is damaged. QZ The tape is locked - check the tab.

  • Page 120: Pictbridge Compliant Printer

    Warning indicators and messages (Continued) x PictBridge compliant printer Check the connected device. • Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it. Connect the camcorder to a PictBridge compatible printer. • Switch off the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it.
  • Page 121 HDV recorded tape. Cannot add audio. • Your camcorder does not allow you to add audio on a section of a tape recorded in HDV format (p. 78). Disconnect one AV cable. (DCR-HC46/ HC96) • A/V connecting cables are connected to both the camcorder and the Handycam Station.

  • Page 122: Additional Information

    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. Use a commercially available AC plug adaptor [a], if necessary, depending on the design of the wall outlet [b].

  • Page 123: Usable Cassette Tapes

    Usable cassette tapes You can use mini DV format cassettes only. Use a cassette with the Your camcorder is not compatible with cassettes with Cassette Memory. To prevent a blank section from being created on the tape Go to the end of the recorded section using END SEARCH (p.

  • Page 124: About The "Memory Stick

    About the “Memory Stick” A “Memory Stick” is a compact, portable IC recording medium with a data capacity that exceeds the capacity of a floppy disk. You can use only a “Memory Stick Duo,” which is about the half size of a standard “Memory Stick”...
  • Page 125 • Do not disassemble or modify the “Memory Stick Duo.” • Do not let the “Memory Stick Duo” get wet. • Be careful to keep “Memory Stick Duo” media out of the reach of small children. There is danger that a child might swallow it. •...

  • Page 126: About The "Infolithium" Battery Pack

    About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack This unit is compatible with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (P series). Your camcorder operates only with an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack. “InfoLITHIUM” P 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...

  • Page 127: About I.link

    • 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.

  • Page 128: Maintenance And Precautions

    DV Interface, see page 71, 74. 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.
  • Page 129 • 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.
  • Page 130 (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 •...
  • Page 131 Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.

  • Page 132: Specifications

    Specifications System Video recording system 2 rotary heads, Helical scanning system Still image recording system Exif Ver. 2.2* 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 NTSC color, EIA standards Usable cassette...
  • Page 133 DCR-HC96: f=5.1 ~ 51 mm (7/32 ~ 2 1/8 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE: 42.8 ~ 495 mm (1 11/16 ~ 19 1/2 in.) (16:9)* 45 ~ 450 mm (1 13/16 ~ 17 3/4 in.) (4:3) In CAMERA-MEMORY: 40.6 ~ 406 mm (1 5/8 ~ 16 in.) (16:9)
  • Page 134 Specifications (Continued) Total dot number 123 200 (560 × 220) General Power requirements DC 7.2 V (battery pack) DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor) Average power consumption DCR-HC36: During camera recording using the viewfinder 1.9 W During camera recording using the LCD 2.3 W DCR-HC46: During camera recording using the...
  • Page 135 DCRA-C152 (DCR-HC96) Audio/Video input/output 10-pin connector Input/output auto switch Video signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Luminance signal: 1 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Chrominance signal: 0.286 Vp-p, 75 Ω (ohms), unbalanced Audio signal: 327 mV (at load impedance 47 kΩ (kilohms)), Input impedance more than 47 kΩ...
  • Page 136 – • “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony – – Corporation. • i.LINK and Corporation. • Picture Package is a trademark of Sony IN/OUT Corporation. IN/OUT • • “Handycam” and registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. • Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Media are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S.

  • Page 137: Index

    Index Numeric/Symbol 12BIT...65 16:9 WIDE...54 16BIT...65 4:3 ...54 Memory Stick...63 STREAM...63 A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off) ...68 A/V connecting cable ...43, 72, 75, 78, 97 A/V jack ...42, 71, 72, 75, 78, 97 A/V t DV OUT ...67 AC Adaptor...13 Access lamp ...25 Active Interface Shoe ...78, 84 Adjusting exposure for back...
  • Page 138 Index (Continued) FLASH SET ...52 Flexible spot meter ...See SPOT METER FOCUS ...51, 105 Folder NEW FOLDER ...59 PB FOLDER (Playback folder)...59 REC FOLDER (Recording folder) ...59 FORMAT ...58, 124 FRAME REC (Frame recording)...62 Frame-by-frame Playback ...64 Getting Started...12 Grip belt...18 GUIDEFRAME...67 Handycam Station ...13, 84 Help ...87...
  • Page 139 NightShot plus ...33 NIGHTSHOT PLUS switch ...33, 52 NIGHTSHOT switch ...33, 53 NORMAL ...55 NS LIGHT (NightShot Light) ...53 NTSC ...107, 122 Number of recordable pictures ...56 OLD MOVIE ...61 ONE PUSH...50 OPEN/EJECT lever ...24 Operation confirmation beep ... See BEEP OUTDOOR...50 OVERLAP...60 P.MENU ...See Personal Menu...
  • Page 140 Transmitter ...40 Tripod ...34 Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.net/ Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink. Printed in Japan TV ...

This manual is also suitable for:

Hc46Hc96Handycam dcr-hc46Handycam dcr-hc96

Table of Contents