Sony Alpha FX3 - User Manual

ILME-FX3
5-025-887-12(1)
C:\5025887121\5025887121ILMEFX3AF1\01GB.indd
DTP data saved: 2022/03/23 14:30
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Preparing the battery pack
1 Insert the battery pack into the battery
charger, and connect it to a wall outlet
(wall socket) using the power cord
(supplied).
• Place the battery pack on the battery charger
in the direction of . Slide the battery pack in
the direction of the arrow as far as it will go.
• When charging starts, the CHARGE lamp
on the battery charger will light up. When
charging is finished, the CHARGE lamp and
all indicators turn off.
CHARGE lamp
To a wall outlet
(wall socket)
2 Insert the battery pack into the camera.
• Open the battery cover, and then insert the
battery pack while pressing the lock lever.
Lock lever
Inserting a memory card into the camera
You can use CFexpress Type A memory cards and SD memory cards with this
camera.
Slot 1 Slot 2
Open the memory card cover and insert the memory card into Slot 1.
• Both Slot 1 and Slot 2 support CFexpress Type A memory cards and SD memory
cards.
• Insert a CFexpress Type A memory card with the label facing the monitor, and an
SD memory card with the terminal facing the monitor. Insert the card until it clicks
into place.
• You can change which memory card slot to use by selecting MENU 
(Shooting)  [Media]  [ Rec. Media Settings]  [ Recording Media] or
[ Recording Media]. The Slot 1 is used in the default settings.
Hint
• When you use a memory card with the camera for the first time, it is recommended that you
format the card on the camera for more stable performance of the memory card.
Attaching a lens
Mounting indexes
1 Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the
rear of the lens.
2 Mount the lens by aligning the two white index marks (mounting
indexes) on the lens and camera.
3 While pushing the lens lightly toward the camera, turn the lens slowly
in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into the locked position.
Attaching the XLR handle unit (supplied)
By attaching the XLR handle unit, up to
four audio devices can be connected to the
camera simultaneously.
1 Remove the shoe cap from the camera
and the handle shoe cap from the XLR
handle unit.
2 Slide the XLR handle unit into the
Multi Interface Shoe until it reaches
the back of the shoe. Then, be sure to
securely tighten the screws on either
side using a coin, etc.
Screw
Screw
Turning the power on and setting the language and area
Power switch
Control wheel
Select items : ////
/
Confirm : Center button
1 Set the power switch to “” (On) to turn on the camera.
2 Press the top/bottom/left/right side of the control wheel to select the
desired language and the area where the camera will be used, and then
press the center of the control wheel.
3 Follow the instructions on the screen to apply the initial settings.
Setting the date and time
1 Press the MENU button to display the
menu screen.
MENU button
Control wheel
2 Press the top/bottom/left/right side of
the control wheel to select
(Setup) 
[Area/Date]  [Area/Date/Time Setting]
 [Date/Time], and then press the center
of the control wheel.
3 Set the date and time, and then press the
center.
Shooting
Shooting movies
MODE (Mode) button
REC (Recording) button
Control wheel
6/REC (Custom 6/Recording) button
1 Press the MODE (Mode) button, use the control wheel to select
(Movie), and then press the center.
2 Press the REC (Recording) button to start recording.
Movie recording can be started from any shooting mode in the default setting.
3 Press the REC button again to stop recording.
Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera
Startup Guide
5-025-887-12(1)
E-mount
ILME-FX3
©2021 Sony Corporation Printed in Thailand
Preparations
Checking the supplied items
The number in parentheses indicates the number of pieces.
• Camera (1)
• Battery charger (1)
• Power cord (mains lead) (1)*
(supplied in some countries/regions)
* Multiple power cords may be
supplied with this equipment. Use the
appropriate one that matches your
country/region. See “Notes on use.”
• Rechargeable battery pack NP-FZ100
(1)
• USB Type-C® cable (1)
• XLR handle unit (1)
• Accessory shoe kit (1)
• Body cap (1) (attached to the camera)
• Shoe cap (1) (attached to the camera)
• Handle shoe cap (1) (attached to the
handle)
• Startup Guide (this manual) (1)
• Reference Guide (1)
Identifying parts
For details on identifying parts, refer to the following Help Guide URL:
https://rd1.sony.net/help/ilc/2210_parts/h_zz/
About the manual for this camera
This guide describes the necessary preparations to start using the
product, basic operations, etc. For details, refer to the “Help Guide”
(web manual).
https://rd1.sony.net/help/ilc/2210/h_zz/
“Help Guide” (Web manual)
ILME-FX3 Help Guide

Summary

Preparing the Battery Pack

Insert Battery Into Charger

Connect battery charger to wall outlet and insert battery pack.

Insert Battery Into Camera

Open battery cover and insert battery pack while pressing lock lever.

Attaching the XLR Handle Unit

Remove Shoe Caps

Remove camera and handle shoe caps before attaching.

Powering On and Initial Setup

Set Power and Initial Settings

Set power switch to ON, select language/area via control wheel.

Inserting Memory Cards

Insert Card Into Slot 1

Open memory card cover, insert card into Slot 1, ensure it clicks.

Checking Supplied Items

Identifying Camera Parts

View Parts Guide

Access the online guide for detailed identification of camera components.

Shooting Movies

Start Movie Recording

Select Movie mode, press REC button to start/stop recording.

Shooting Still Images

Capture Still Image

Select shooting mode, focus, and press shutter button fully.

Viewing Images and Movies

Playback Recorded Media

Press Playback button, use control wheel to select and view media.

List of Menu Items

Access Menu Guide

Find detailed information on camera menu settings via the online guide.

Notes on Camera Usage

Handling and Safety Precautions

Covers handling, monitor, continuous shooting, memory cards, tripods, and accessories.

Network and Wireless Notes

Includes notes on network functions, Wi-Fi frequency, and temporary disabling.

XLR Handle and Power Cord Notes

Specific precautions for using the XLR handle unit and power cord.

Camera Specifications

Camera System Specifications

Details on camera type, image sensor, monitor, general specs, and wireless LAN.

Accessory Specifications

Specifications for XLR handle unit, battery charger, and rechargeable battery pack.

Trademarks

Product Trademarks

Lists trademarks for Sony technologies and general product names.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Initial Setup and Power Management
4. Memory Card Insertion
5. Lens Attachment
6. XLR Handle Unit Attachment
7. Shooting Movies
8. Shooting Still Images
9. Viewing Images
10. Network Functions
11. Safety and Handling Precautions
12. Memory Card Handling
13. Tripod Use
14. Copyrights and Location Information
15. Discarding/Transferring the Product or Memory Cards
16. Network Security
17. XLR Handle Unit Specifics
18. Power Cord Usage
19. Monitor Display
20. Maintenance Features

This document describes the Sony ILME-FX3, an interchangeable lens digital camera designed for professional movie shooting and still image capture. It comes with an XLR handle unit for enhanced audio capabilities and a range of accessories to support its operation.

Function Description

The Sony ILME-FX3 is a versatile digital camera that supports both CFexpress Type A and SD memory cards for recording. It is equipped with an E-mount for interchangeable lenses, allowing users to select from a wide range of Sony lenses to suit various shooting scenarios. The camera's primary function is to capture high-quality movies and still images, with a focus on professional video production.

The camera features a 7.5 cm (3.0 type) TFT touch panel monitor for easy navigation and settings adjustment. It includes a power switch for turning the device on and off, a control wheel for menu navigation and selection, and dedicated buttons for MODE selection, REC (recording), and playback.

A key feature of the ILME-FX3 is its XLR handle unit, which allows for the simultaneous connection of up to four audio devices, significantly enhancing its audio recording capabilities for professional use. This handle unit attaches securely to the camera's Multi Interface Shoe.

Usage Features

Initial Setup and Power Management:

To begin using the camera, users must first insert a charged battery pack. The battery charger connects to a wall outlet, and the CHARGE lamp indicates the charging status. Once the battery is inserted into the camera, the power switch can be set to "I" (On). Upon the first power-on, the camera guides the user through selecting the desired language and area, followed by initial settings application. Setting the date and time is also a crucial step, accessible through the MENU button under (Setup) → [Area/Date] → [Area/Date/Time Setting].

Memory Card Insertion:

The camera supports both CFexpress Type A and SD memory cards. Users should open the memory card cover and insert the card into Slot 1, ensuring the label faces the monitor for CFexpress Type A cards or the terminal faces the monitor for SD cards. The camera allows users to change which memory card slot to use via the MENU settings under (Shooting) → [Media] → [ Rec. Media Settings] → [ Recording Media] or [☑ Recording Media]. Formatting the memory card on the camera is recommended for optimal performance, especially when using a new card.

Lens Attachment:

Attaching a lens involves removing the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens. The lens is then mounted by aligning the two white index marks on both the lens and camera. While gently pushing the lens towards the camera, it should be slowly turned in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into a locked position.

XLR Handle Unit Attachment:

To attach the XLR handle unit, users must first remove the shoe cap from both the camera and the handle unit. The XLR handle unit then slides into the Multi Interface Shoe until it reaches the back, and the screws on either side must be securely tightened using a coin or similar tool. Before connecting or disconnecting external microphones or devices to the INPUT1 or INPUT2 jacks, the INPUT1 (LINE/MIC/MIC+48V) or INPUT2 (LINE/MIC/MIC+48V) switch must be set to a position other than "MIC+48V" to prevent loud noise or device malfunction.

Shooting Movies:

To shoot movies, press the MODE (Mode) button, use the control wheel to select ►(Movie), and then press the center button. Recording starts by pressing the REC (Recording) button and stops by pressing it again. Movie recording can be initiated from any shooting mode by default.

Shooting Still Images:

For still images, press the MODE (Mode) button, use the control wheel to select the desired shooting mode, and then press the center button. To focus, press the shutter button halfway down. To capture the image, press the shutter button all the way down.

Viewing Images:

To switch to playback mode, press the (Playback) button. Images can be selected using the control wheel, moving to previous or next images by pressing the left/right sides of the control wheel. To play back a movie, press the center button on the control wheel.

Network Functions:

The camera includes wireless LAN functionality. For outdoor use, it is recommended to set the Wi-Fi Frequency Band to 2.4 GHz via MENU (Network)→ [Wi-Fi]→ [Wi-Fi Frequency Band]. For situations like airplane travel, all wireless network functions can be temporarily turned off using [Airplane Mode].

Safety and Handling Precautions:

The camera is designed to be dust- and moisture-resistant but is not waterproof. Users should avoid exposing the lens to strong light sources like direct sunlight, as this can cause smoke, fire, or malfunction. If the camera must be left exposed to such light, the lens cap should be attached. Direct exposure to laser beams can damage the image sensor. Users should not look at sunlight or strong light sources through the lens when it is detached, as this can cause irreversible eye damage or camera malfunction.

The camera and its accessories contain magnets that may interfere with medical devices such as pacemakers. Users with such devices should consult a doctor before use. Volume should be increased gradually to avoid sudden loud noises, especially when using headphones. The camera, accessories, and memory cards should be kept out of reach of infants to prevent accidental swallowing. Care should be taken not to obstruct the cooling fan while it is in operation.

During continuous shooting, the monitor may flash between the shooting screen and a black screen. If this causes discomfort, users should stop using the camera and consult a doctor. Recording for long periods or recording 4K movies can cause the camera body and battery to become warm, which is normal. Prolonged skin contact with a warm camera, especially in high-temperature environments or with impaired skin sensation, can cause low-temperature burns. Users should avoid touching the ventilation outlet for extended periods to prevent low-temperature burns.

Memory Card Handling:

Memory cards may become hot after recording; this is not a malfunction. If the overheating warning icon is displayed, the memory card should not be removed immediately. Instead, turn off the camera and wait for it to cool down before removal to prevent damage.

Tripod Use:

When using a tripod, ensure the screw is less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inches) long to securely fasten the camera and prevent damage.

Copyrights and Location Information:

Users are warned that unauthorized recording of copyrighted materials is contrary to copyright laws. When uploading and sharing images or movies with location information linked to a smartphone application, users should be aware that this information may be revealed to third parties. To prevent this, the [Location Information Linkage] function should be deactivated.

Discarding/Transferring the Product or Memory Cards:

Before discarding or transferring the camera to others, users should perform a [Setting Reset] → [Initialize] operation to protect private information. Similarly, before transferring a memory card, users should use data deletion software to completely erase data, as formatting or deleting on the camera or computer may not be sufficient. Physical destruction of the memory card is recommended when discarding it.

Network Security:

Users should be aware that when using network functions, unintended third parties may access the camera depending on the network environment. Sony is not responsible for any loss or damage caused by connecting to such network environments.

XLR Handle Unit Specifics:

Operating the handle or changing INPUT1/INPUT2 switch settings during recording will introduce noise into the recording. If the handle's microphone is near a speaker, acoustic feedback may occur; users should move the handle away or lower the speaker volume. The microphone surface should be clean for successful recording. The internal microphone of the camera cannot record audio input when the handle is connected and the HANDLE AUDIO ON/OFF switch is ON. The handle-attachment screws must be securely fastened to prevent damage to the Multi Interface Shoe terminal or the handle falling off.

Power Cord Usage:

Specific power cords are supplied for different regions (UK, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, other EU countries/regions). Users should use the appropriate power cord for their country/region.

Monitor Display:

The monitor is manufactured with high-precision technology, ensuring over 99.99% operational pixels. Small black or bright dots (white, red, blue, or green) may appear constantly; these are manufacturing imperfections and do not affect recorded images. If the monitor is damaged, its use should be discontinued immediately to prevent injury.

Maintenance Features

The document does not explicitly detail maintenance features but implies general care through its "Notes on use" section. This includes:

• Cleaning: Keeping the microphone surface clean for successful recording.
• Storage: Attaching the lens cap when storing the camera to protect the lens from strong light sources.
• Data Management: Recommending formatting memory cards on the camera for stable performance and using data deletion software or physical destruction for memory cards before transferring or discarding them.
• Software Updates: While not explicitly stated as a maintenance feature, the existence of a "Help Guide" and "Customer Support Website" suggests that information on software updates and troubleshooting would be available there to maintain optimal camera performance.

Sony Alpha FX3 Specifications