Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S500 - User Manual

This document serves as an instruction manual for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S500 Digital Still Camera, providing comprehensive guidance on its operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Function Description

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S500 is a digital still camera designed for capturing images and movies. Its primary function is to record visual content onto "Memory Stick Duo" media or its internal memory. The camera offers various shooting modes, including an "Auto adjustment mode" for easy point-and-shoot operation, and "Scene Selection modes" with preset settings for specific scenarios like Twilight, Beach, Candle, and Soft Snap. For more advanced users, a "Program auto shooting mode (P)" allows for automatic exposure while still offering access to various menu settings. The camera is equipped with a zoom function, enabling users to adjust the focal length for wide-angle or telephoto shots. It also features flash modes for different lighting conditions, including forced flash, slow synchro, and forced flash off. A close-up (Macro) function is available for detailed shots of nearby subjects, and a self-timer allows for delayed shutter release, useful for self-portraits or reducing camera shake.

Beyond image capture, the DSC-S500 supports image viewing and deletion directly on the camera's LCD screen. Users can browse images, view them in an enlarged playback zoom, or see an index screen of multiple images. Movies can also be played back, though sound is only available when viewed on a computer or TV. The camera facilitates printing images directly to a PictBridge-compliant printer via a USB connection, eliminating the need for a computer in the printing process.

Usage Features

The camera's design emphasizes ease of use, particularly with its "Auto adjustment mode." To begin, users must insert two LR6 (size AA) alkaline batteries (or other compatible types like Nickel-Metal Hydride or Oxy Nickel Primary Battery) and a "Memory Stick Duo" (not supplied). The manual provides clear instructions for attaching the wrist strap, inserting batteries, and inserting the memory stick, highlighting the importance of not opening the battery/memory stick cover while the access lamp is lit to prevent data corruption.

Setting the date and time is an initial setup step, guided by a menu-driven interface. The language setting can also be customized. Users can select the desired image size for still photos, with options ranging from 6M (2816x2112) for high-quality prints to VGA (640x480) for email or web use, impacting the number of images that can be stored.

Shooting an image involves selecting the desired mode (still image or movie) and then using the shutter button. A half-press of the shutter button focuses the camera, indicated by an AE/AF lock indicator, before a full press captures the image. For movies, a full press starts and stops recording. The zoom function is controlled by pressing the T (telephoto) or W (wide angle) buttons. The mode dial allows for quick selection between auto adjustment, scene selection, and program auto shooting modes. Flash modes and the self-timer are accessed via the control button.

Viewing images is straightforward: switch to playback mode, then use the control button to navigate through images. The zoom button allows for enlarged viewing, and an index screen provides a thumbnail overview. Deleting images can be done individually or in batches from the index screen. For viewing on a larger display, the camera can be connected to a TV using the supplied A/V cable.

Printing images directly from the camera is a key feature. After connecting the camera to a PictBridge-compliant printer via USB, the camera automatically enters playback mode and displays a print menu. Users can select individual images or multiple images to print, and adjust print settings before confirming the print job.

Maintenance Features

The manual provides important safeguards and maintenance guidelines to ensure the longevity and proper functioning of the camera. It advises against exposing the unit to rain or moisture and emphasizes the importance of using the correct power source. For cleaning, the LCD screen should be wiped with an LCD cleaning kit, the lens with a soft cloth, and the camera surface with a slightly moistened soft cloth, avoiding chemical products.

Environmental considerations are also highlighted: the camera should not be used or stored in extremely hot, dry, or humid places, under direct sunlight, near heaters, in locations subject to strong vibration, or in sandy/dusty environments, as these can cause malfunctions or damage.

Regarding battery care, the manual details compatible battery types and provides guidelines for checking remaining battery time. It warns against mistreating batteries (recharging, disassembling, or disposing of in fire) and notes that battery life can be affected by cold temperatures. The camera has an internal rechargeable battery for maintaining date and time settings, which is charged while the camera is in use. If the camera is not used for about a week, this battery may discharge and needs to be recharged by leaving the camera with charged main batteries for 24 hours or more with the power off.

Moisture condensation is a potential issue when moving the camera between environments with significant temperature differences. To prevent this, users are advised to seal the camera in a plastic bag for about an hour to allow it to adapt to the new conditions. If condensation occurs, the camera should be turned off and allowed to dry for about an hour before use.

Troubleshooting steps are provided for common issues, starting with checking specific sections of the manual, removing and reinserting batteries, initializing settings, and finally, consulting a Sony dealer if problems persist. This structured approach helps users resolve issues efficiently. The manual also includes information on supported operating systems for USB connection and application software, and instructions for viewing the "Cyber-shot Handbook" PDF for more detailed information.