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Sony DCR-SR300 User Manual

Sony DCR-SR300
131 pages
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3-093-316-13(1)
Digital Video Camera Recorder
Handycam Handbook
DCR-SR32E/SR33E/SR42E/
SR52E/SR62E/SR72E/
SR82E/SR190E/SR200E/
SR290E/SR300E
© 2007 Sony Corporation
Enjoying your
camcorder
8
Getting Started
12
Recording/
Playback
20
Editing
38
Customizing your
camcorder
52
Performing with
a computer
73
Troubleshooting
94
Additional Information
108
Utilizing recording
media
49
Quick Reference
118

Table of Contents

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Sony DCR-SR300 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Recording MediaHDD
Video FormatMPEG-2
Optical Zoom25x
Digital Zoom2000x
Image SensorCCD
Still Image CaptureYes
MicrophoneBuilt-in
Image StabilizationElectronic
TypeDigital Camcorder
LCD Screen Size2.7 in
Optical Sensor Resolution1.07 MP
InterfaceUSB

Summary

Enjoying your camcorder

Notes on use

Important notes and precautions for using the camcorder.

Types of “Memory Stick” you can use in your camcorder

Details on compatible Memory Stick types and usage.

On using the camcorder

Guidelines for handling the camcorder during operation.

About menu items, LCD panel and lens

Information about menu items, LCD screen, and lens care.

On recording

Guidance on initial recording procedures and tips.

About language setting

Instructions for changing the on-screen display language.

About this Handbook

Notes about illustrations and specifications in the manual.

About the Carl Zeiss lens

Information about the camcorder's Carl Zeiss lens quality.

Notes on using the Hard Disk Drive Handycam

Precautions for using the camcorder's hard disk drive.

Save all your recorded image data

Recommendations for backing up recorded image data.

Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder

Warnings against physical shock and vibration to protect the device.

On the drop sensor

Explanation of the drop sensor function and its effects.

Notes on battery pack/AC Adaptor

Important notes regarding battery pack and AC adaptor usage.

Note on operating temperatures

Precautions regarding operating the camcorder in extreme temperatures.

When the camcorder is connected to a computer

Specific notes for camcorder connection to a computer.

Note on using the camcorder at high altitudes

Caution for operating the camcorder at high altitudes.

Note on disposal/transfer

Guidance on proper disposal or transfer of the camcorder.

If you cannot record/play back images, perform [ FORMAT]

Troubleshooting step for image recording/playback issues using format.

Subject examples and solutions

Examples of shooting scenarios and recommended settings.

Operation flow

Step-by-step guide for camcorder operation from start to delete.

“ HOME” and “ OPTION” - Taking advantage of two types of menus

Explains the usage of HOME and OPTION menus for camcorder operations.

Categories and items of the HOME MENU

Lists categories and items available within the HOME MENU.

Using the HOME MENU

Step-by-step guide to navigate and use the HOME MENU interface.

Using the OPTION MENU

How to access and use functions via the OPTION MENU.

Getting Started

Step 1: Checking supplied items

List of items included with the camcorder and their quantities.

Step 2: Charging the battery pack

Detailed instructions for charging the camcorder's battery pack.

Notes on charging and battery usage

Notes on charging, removing, storing, and using battery packs and AC adaptors.

Battery and Power Information

Information on playback time, battery usage, and charging/recording times.

Step 3: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time

Guide to initial power-on and setting the camcorder's date and time.

Changing the language setting

Instructions on how to change the camcorder's display language.

Step 4: Preparing for recording

Steps to prepare the camcorder for recording, including lens and LCD adjustments.

Opening the lens cover manually

How to manually open the lens cover on specific models.

Adjusting the LCD panel

Instructions for adjusting the camcorder's LCD panel for optimal viewing.

Fastening the grip belt

How to properly fasten and use the camcorder's grip belt.

Recording/Playback

Recording and playback with ease (Easy Handycam operation)

Guide to using the camcorder's simplified automatic operation mode.

Recording movies

Steps for recording movies using the camcorder.

Recording still images

Steps for capturing still images with the camcorder.

Playing back recorded movies/still images

How to playback recorded movie and still image files.

To cancel Easy Handycam operation

Steps to exit the Easy Handycam operation mode.

Menu settings during Easy Handycam operation

Notes on menu settings availability during Easy Handycam operation.

Invalid buttons during Easy Handycam operation

Information on buttons/functions unavailable in Easy Handycam mode.

Recording

General information and notes related to the recording process.

Zooming

How to use the zoom function for recording.

Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording)

Capturing audio using 5.1ch surround sound technology.

Using the flash (DCR-SR190E/SR200E/SR290E/SR300E)

How to use the built-in flash for specific camcorder models.

Capturing high quality still images during movie recording (Dual Rec)

Method to capture still images while recording a movie.

Recording still images on a “Memory Stick Duo”

How to change media to record still images on a Memory Stick Duo.

Recording in dark places (NightShot plus/NightShot)

Using NightShot modes for recording in low-light conditions.

Adjusting the exposure for backlit subjects

How to adjust exposure for subjects in backlight conditions.

Recording in mirror mode

Explanation of the mirror mode feature.

Selecting the aspect ratio (16:9 or 4:3) of the recording image

How to set the aspect ratio for recorded images.

Recording the fast action in slow-motion (SMTH SLW REC)

Capturing fast actions in slow-motion video.

Playback

General guide to playing back recorded media.

Movies

How to playback movie files.

Still images

How to playback still images.

To switch the playback mode using the (HOME) D (or E) button

Switching playback modes via the HOME menu.

To adjust the sound volume of movies

Adjusting the audio volume during movie playback.

Using PB zoom

Magnifying still images during playback.

Searching for desired images by date (Date Index)

Efficiently finding images using the date index feature.

Playing back a series of still images (Slide show)

Playing back still images as an automated slideshow.

Playing the image on a TV

Connecting the camcorder to a TV for playback.

When your TV is connected to a VCR

Specific connection instructions when using a VCR.

To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3)

Adjusting aspect ratio settings based on the connected TV type.

When your TV is monaural

Notes for connecting to monaural TVs.

If your TV/VCR has a 21-pin adaptor (EUROCONNECTOR)

Using the 21-pin adaptor for TV/VCR connection.

Saving images

Overview of methods for saving recorded images.

Saving images using a computer

Methods for saving images to a computer or DVD via PC.

Saving images by connecting your camcorder to other devices

How to save images by connecting to external recording devices.

Editing

Deleting images

Instructions for deleting recorded movies and still images.

Deleting the images on the hard disk

Detailed steps for deleting images from the camcorder's hard disk.

Deleting the still images in the “Memory Stick Duo”

Steps for deleting still images from a Memory Stick Duo.

Dividing a movie

How to split a movie file into multiple segments.

Copying still images

Instructions for copying still images to a Memory Stick Duo.

To copy all the still images recorded on the same day at one time

Batch copying of still images recorded on the same date.

Creating the Playlist

How to create and manage playlists of movies.

To add all the movies recorded on the same day at one time

Batch adding movies recorded on the same date to a playlist.

Playing the Playlist

How to playback movies from a created playlist.

To erase unnecessary images from the Playlist

Removing unwanted images from a playlist.

Dubbing to VCR or DVD/HDD recorders

Transferring recorded video to external devices like VCRs or recorders.

Printing recorded images (PictBridge compliant printer)

Printing still images directly from the camcorder to a PictBridge printer.

Connecting your camcorder to the printer

Steps for connecting the camcorder to a printer for direct printing.

Printing

Detailed procedure for printing still images.

To finish printing

Steps to complete the printing process.

Utilizing recording media

Formatting the hard disk or the “Memory Stick Duo”

Procedures for formatting the camcorder's hard disk and Memory Stick Duo.

Formatting the “Memory Stick Duo”

Steps to format the Memory Stick Duo media.

Checking the hard disk information

How to view the camcorder's hard disk capacity and free space.

Preventing data on the hard disk of the camcorder from being recovered

How to securely erase data to prevent recovery before disposal or transfer.

Customizing your camcorder

What you can do with the (SETTINGS) category of the HOME MENU

Overview of settings adjustable via the HOME MENU's SETTINGS category.

Using the HOME MENU

Guide to navigating and using the HOME MENU.

List of the (SETTINGS) category items

Comprehensive list of all settings available in the SETTINGS category.

MOVIE SETTINGS

Settings related to recording movies, including recording modes and times.

NIGHTSHOT LIGHT

Adjusting the infrared light for NightShot modes.

WIDE SELECT

Selecting the aspect ratio for movies.

DIGITAL ZOOM

How to use digital zoom for increased magnification.

STEADYSHOT

Image stabilization feature to reduce camera shake.

AUTO SLW SHUTTR (Auto Slow Shutter)

Automatic slow shutter function for low-light shooting.

GUIDEFRAME

Using guide frames for composition assistance.

ZEBRA

Zebra pattern for exposure monitoring.

REMAINING

Displaying remaining recording time.

PHOTO SETTINGS

Settings related to recording still images, including image size and quality.

IMAGE SIZE

Adjusting the resolution and file size for still images.

QUALITY

Setting the image quality level for still images (Fine/Standard).

FILE NO. (File number)

How file numbering is managed for recorded images.

NIGHTSHOT LIGHT

Adjusting the infrared light for NightShot modes.

STEADYSHOT (DCR-SR290E/SR300E)

Image stabilization feature for specific models.

GUIDEFRAME (DCR-SR190E/SR200E/SR290E/SR300E)

Guide frames for composition on specific models.

ZEBRA (DCR-SR190E/SR200E/SR290E/SR300E)

Zebra pattern for exposure monitoring on specific models.

FLASH LEVEL (except for DCR-SR32E/SR33E/SR42E)

Adjusting the intensity of the flash.

REDEYE REDUC (except for DCR-SR32E/SR33E/SR42E)

Red-eye reduction feature for flash photography.

STILL MEDIA

Setting the recording media for still images.

VIEW IMAGES SET

Settings for customizing the display of images.

DATA CODE

Displaying recorded data codes (date, time, settings) during playback.

DISPLAY

Adjusting thumbnail display options on the VISUAL INDEX screen.

SOUND/DISP SET

Settings for audio feedback (beep) and screen adjustments.

VOLUME

Adjusting the camcorder's audio volume.

BEEP

Enabling or disabling audio feedback for operations.

LCD BRIGHT

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD screen backlight.

LCD BL LEVEL (LCD backlight level)

Adjusting the brightness of the LCD screen's backlight.

LCD COLOR

Adjusting the color tint of the LCD screen.

OUTPUT SETTINGS

Settings for connecting the camcorder to external devices like TVs.

TV TYPE

Selecting TV aspect ratio (16:9/4:3) for proper playback display.

DISP OUTPUT

Controlling where display information (time code) appears (LCD or TV).

CLOCK/ LANG

Setting the clock and selecting the display language.

CLOCK SET

Setting the camcorder's date and time.

AREA SET

Adjusting for time zone differences when traveling.

SUMMERTIME

Enabling or disabling daylight saving time.

LANGUAGE SET

Changing the on-screen display language.

GENERAL SET

Various general settings for camcorder operation.

DEMO MODE

Activating or deactivating the camcorder's demonstration mode.

A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off)

Setting the automatic power-off feature to save battery.

REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)

Enabling or disabling the remote commander function.

DROP SENSOR

Managing the drop sensor to protect the hard disk.

Activating functions using the OPTION MENU

Guide to accessing and using the OPTION MENU for various functions.

Recording items on the OPTION MENU

Lists recording-related functions accessible via the OPTION MENU.

Viewing items on the OPTION MENU

Lists playback/viewing-related functions accessible via the OPTION MENU.

FOCUS

Manually adjusting the camcorder's focus for sharp images.

SPOT FOCUS

Focusing on a specific subject area not in the center.

TELE MACRO

Special mode for shooting small subjects with blurred backgrounds.

EXPOSURE

Manually adjusting image brightness for better exposure.

SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)

Adjusting exposure based on a specific subject's brightness.

SCENE SELECTION

Selecting preset scene modes for various shooting conditions.

WHITE BAL. (White balance)

Adjusting color balance to match ambient lighting conditions.

COLOR SLOW SHTR (Color Slow Shutter)

Using slow shutter for brighter images in dark scenes.

S. NIGHTSHOT PLS (Super NightShot plus)

Enhanced low-light recording mode for specific models.

SUPER NIGHTSHOT (DCR-SR190E/SR200E/SR290E/SR300E)

Enhanced low-light recording mode for specific models.

FADER

Adding transition effects (fades) between scenes.

D.EFFECT (Digital effect)

Applying digital effects to images during recording or playback.

PICT.EFFECT (Picture effect)

Applying special visual effects to images.

MICREF LEVEL

Adjusting the microphone input level for recording sound.

SELF-TIMER

Using the self-timer to capture images after a delay.

FLASH MODE (DCR-SR52E/SR62E/SR72E/SR82E)

Setting the flash mode for external flashes on specific models.

Performing with a computer

Main functions

Overview of operations possible with the computer software.

About the help function of the software

How to access software help documentation.

System requirements

Hardware and software requirements for using the computer software.

Installing the software

Step-by-step guide for installing the camcorder software on a computer.

Creating a DVD with One Touch

Simple method to burn recorded images onto a DVD using the Handycam Station.

To disconnect the USB cable

Correct procedure for safely disconnecting the USB cable.

After creating a DVD

Steps and recommendations after DVD creation is complete.

To perform [DISC BURN] on the [USB SELECT] screen of your camcorder

Initiating disc burning from the camcorder's USB SELECT screen.

To perform [One Touch Disc Burn] on the HDD Handycam Utility of a computer

Performing One Touch Disc Burn using the computer utility.

Importing images to a computer

Overview of importing images from camcorder to PC.

Importing entire images to a computer (Easy PC Back-up)

Importing all images at once using Easy PC Back-up.

Importing selected images to a computer (Media File Import)

Importing specific images using Media File Import.

To import still images using the Memory Stick slot of a computer

Importing still images directly from Memory Stick using a computer's slot.

Deleting images recorded on the camcorder through the computer

Deleting camcorder images using the computer software.

Viewing images imported to a computer

Browsing imported images on the computer by folder or date.

To enlarge an image

Enlarging images within the image viewer.

To playback images continuously

Playing back images as a continuous slideshow.

To delete unnecessary image from the computer

Removing unwanted images from the computer.

Editing the imported images

Overview of editing capabilities for imported images.

Editing movies

Cutting and trimming movie clips.

Editing still images

Various editing options for still images.

Creating and copying a DVD

Creating DVDs with selected images and menus.

Saving movies in the Playlist to a DVD

Burning playlists of movies onto a DVD.

Copying a DVD

Copying content from one DVD to another.

Manipulating still images

Various ways to manipulate still images after import.

Printing still images

Printing still images directly or with date information.

Sending still images by e-mail

Attaching and sending still images via email.

Opening with external applications

Using external applications to view images.

Troubleshooting

Overall operations/Easy Handycam operation/Remote Commander

Troubleshooting common operational issues with the camcorder and remote.

The power does not turn on.

Steps to resolve issues where the camcorder does not power on.

The camcorder does not operate even when the power is set to on.

Troubleshooting steps for when the camcorder fails to operate after powering on.

Buttons do not work.

Issues related to unresponsive buttons or functions.

The (OPTION) button is not displayed.

Reasons why the OPTION button/menu might not be available.

The menu settings have changed automatically.

Explains automatic reset of settings, especially in Easy Handycam mode.

Your camcorder gets warm.

Normal operation causes for camcorder warmth.

The supplied Remote Commander does not function

Troubleshooting for the remote commander not working.

Another DVD device malfunctions when you use the supplied Remote Commander

Potential conflicts with DVD devices and remote commander.

The power abruptly turns off.

Diagnosing and fixing issues with the camcorder shutting off unexpectedly.

Batteries/Power sources

Troubleshooting power-related issues, battery charging, and AC adapter.

The CHG (charge) lamp does not light while the battery pack is being charged.

Troubleshooting the charging indicator lamp not illuminating.

The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged.

Troubleshooting the CHG lamp flashing during charging.

The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time.

Issues with the battery level indicator showing incorrect time.

The battery pack is quickly discharged.

Diagnosing rapid battery discharge issues.

LCD screen

Notes on touch panel behavior, grayed-out menu items, and LCD screen issues.

Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not record images.

Resolving issues where recording functions fail.

You cannot record a still image.

Steps to take when unable to capture still images.

The ACCESS lamp remains lit even when you stop recording.

Understanding the ACCESS lamp status after stopping recording.

The recording angle looks different.

Explains potential variations in recording angle.

The flash does not work (except for DCR-SR32E/SR33E/SR42E).

Troubleshooting flash functionality issues on specific models.

The recording stops.

Addressing issues where recording unexpectedly stops.

Recording start/stop timing difference.

Explains slight timing discrepancies in recording start/stop.

The auto focus does not function.

Troubleshooting autofocus system failures.

[STEADYSHOT] does not function.

Resolving issues with the SteadyShot image stabilization.

The BACK LIGHT function does not function.

Troubleshooting the backlight function.

Fast moving subjects appear crooked.

Explanation of potential crooked subjects due to focal plane phenomenon.

Tiny spots on screen.

Explains tiny pixel spots appearing on screen during specific modes.

Incorrect image color display.

Troubleshooting incorrect image color display.

Bright screen issues.

Addressing bright screen issues where the subject is not visible.

Vertical band/stripes/line issues.

Explains vertical bands caused by high contrast in low light.

Flicker and black bands.

Explains flicker caused by fluorescent/sodium lamps.

Feature operation errors.

Issues with operating specific features like NightShot or Color Slow Shutter.

LCD backlight adjustment issues.

Conditions under which LCD backlight level cannot be adjusted.

Memory Stick Duo playback issues.

Reasons why still images on Memory Stick Duo may not play back.

No sound or quiet sound during playback.

Troubleshooting sound issues during playback.

Editing limitations on camcorder

Notes on limitations regarding editing images on the camcorder.

Playlist and Movie Division Issues

Reasons why movies cannot be added to playlists or divided.

Copying and Connection Issues

Issues with copying images and connecting to devices/computers.

Connecting to a computer

Troubleshooting computer recognition and connection issues.

Software and Connection Troubleshooting

Issues with software compatibility, One Touch Disc Burn, and computer connections.

Viewing and Playback Issues

Troubleshooting viewing images on PC and playback quality problems.

Playback Screen Issues

Troubleshooting paused, distorted, or different playback screens.

File Extension and Backup Issues

Displaying file extensions and resolving disk space errors during backup.

Functions that cannot be used simultaneously

Lists combinations of functions that cannot be used together.

Warning indicators and messages

Explains various warning indicators and error messages displayed on the LCD screen.

Description of warning messages

Detailed explanations of specific warning messages and their meanings.

File Management and Memory Stick Issues

Handling damaged management files, buffer overflows, and full Memory Stick folders.

Data Recovery and PictBridge Issues

Troubleshooting data recovery, saving pictures, and PictBridge printer problems.

Other Troubleshooting Topics

Other limitations and issues like selection limits, data protection, and dividing short movies.

Additional Information

Using your camcorder abroad

Information for using the camcorder internationally, including power and TV systems.

Setting to the local time

How to set the camcorder's clock to local time for international use.

World time difference

A chart showing time differences for various global locations.

Files on the camcorder hard disk/folder structure

Explanation of the camcorder's file and folder organization on the hard disk.

Maintenance and precautions

General maintenance advice and precautions for the camcorder and accessories.

About the “Memory Stick”

Information regarding Memory Stick media compatibility and usage.

On a “Memory Stick Duo” with a write-protect tab

Using the write-protect tab to prevent accidental data erasure.

Notes on use

Important notes regarding potential data loss or damage.

On handling a “Memory Stick”

Precautions for handling Memory Stick Duo media.

On a location for use

Locations to avoid using the camcorder and Memory Stick Duo.

On the Memory Stick Duo adaptor

How to use the Memory Stick Duo adaptor.

On a “Memory Stick PRO Duo”

Information on using Memory Stick PRO Duo media.

On image data compatibility

Notes on image file compatibility with the camcorder.

About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack

Information about the InfoLITHIUM battery pack and its features.

To use the battery pack effectively

Tips for maximizing battery life and performance.

About the remaining battery time indicator

Understanding the battery level indicator and its accuracy.

About storage of the battery pack

Guidance on storing battery packs for long periods.

About battery life

Information on battery capacity degradation and replacement.

On use and care

General guidelines for camcorder usage and care.

About handling of your camcorder

Important precautions and advice for handling the camcorder.

When not using your camcorder for a long time

Instructions for storing the camcorder when not in use.

Moisture condensation

Explains moisture condensation and how to prevent or resolve it.

How to prevent moisture condensation

Methods to prevent moisture condensation inside the camcorder.

LCD screen

Notes and precautions regarding the LCD screen.

To clean the LCD screen

Instructions for cleaning the LCD screen.

On adjustment of the touch panel (CALIBRATION)

Calibrating the touch panel for accurate operation.

On handling the casing

How to clean and care for the camcorder's exterior casing.

About care and storage of the lens

Instructions for cleaning and storing the camcorder lens.

On charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery

Information on charging the internal battery for settings retention.

On trademarks

List of trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned in the manual.

Notes on the License

Legal information and licensing details for the product.

On GNU GPL/LGPL applied software

Information on included open-source software licenses.

Quick Reference

Identifying parts and controls

Diagrams identifying all external parts and controls of the camcorder.

Remote Commander

Details on the remote commander's buttons and operation.

To change the battery of the Remote Commander

Instructions for replacing the remote commander's battery.

Indicators displayed during recording/playback

Explains all on-screen indicators during recording and playback modes.

Viewing movies

Identifies indicators shown during movie playback.

Viewing still images

Identifies indicators shown during still image playback.

Indicators when you made changes

Explains indicators that appear when specific settings are changed.

Data code during recording

Explains how recording date and time are captured.

Glossary

Definitions of technical terms and abbreviations used in the manual.

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