HDRXR500V Handbook

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Handycam Handbook
HDR-XR500/XR500V/XR520/
Table of Contents
XR520V
Useful Recording Techniques

Index
 2009 Sony Corporation 4-131-472-11(1) US

Using the Handycam Handbook
You will find information on using your camcorder to its fullest in this Handycam Handbook.
Read the Handycam Handbook in addition to the Operating Guide (a separate volume).
Information on using your camcorder connected to a computer will be found in the
Table of Contents
Operating Guide and the PMB Guide that is the Help of the supplied “PMB (Picture Motion
Browser)” software.
Searching for information quickly

Click an item on the right edge of each page, and you will jump to the page for that item.

 Click here.
 You can search for an item by keyword using Adobe Reader. Refer to the Help of Adobe Reader for tips
on how to use Adobe Reader.
 You can print out the Handycam Handbook.
About this Handycam Handbook

 The example images used in this Handycam Handbook for illustration purposes are captured using a
digital still camera, and therefore may appear different from images and screen indicators that actually
appear on your camcorder.
 The HDR-XR520V is used for illustrations in this book, unless otherwise mentioned.
 In this Handycam Handbook, the internal hard disk of your camcorder and “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media are called “recording media.”
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media are both referred to as
Index

“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media in this manual.
 Design and specifications of your camcorder and accessories are subject to change without notice.

Table of contents
Using the Handycam Handbook.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Searching for information quickly.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Table of Contents
Useful recording techniques.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Parts and controls.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Screen indicators.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
“ HOME” and “ OPTION” - Taking advantage of two types of menus.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Using the HOME MENU.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Using the OPTION MENU.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Menu lists.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
List of the HOME MENU.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
List of the OPTION MENU.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Read this before operating your camcorder.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Notes on using the Hard Disk Drive Handycam.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Getting started

Step 1: Charging the battery pack.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Changing the language setting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Recording/Playback
Five pieces of advice for successful recording.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Recording and playing movies and photos easily ( Easy Handycam Operation)
.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Recording movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Shooting photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Playing movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Viewing photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Recording.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Recording movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Shooting photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Useful functions for recording movies and photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Zooming.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Index
Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording).. . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Recording high quality photos during movie recording (Dual Rec).. . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Recording in dark places (NightShot/LOW LUX).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Recording in mirror mode.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Recording fast action in slow-motion (SMTH SLW REC).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Switching the screen display, or turning the LCD backlight on/off.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Controlling the image settings manually with the MANUAL dial.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Acquiring location information (GPS) (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Playback on the camcorder.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Playing movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Viewing photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Useful functions for playing movies and photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Table of Contents
Searching for a desired scene by recording location (Map Index) (HDR-
XR500V/XR520V).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Searching for desired scene by pinpoint (Film Roll Index).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Searching for desired scene by face (Face Index).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Playing back a digest of your movies (HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Searching for desired images by date (Date Index).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Using PB zoom with photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Playing back a series of photos (Slide show).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Playing images on a TV.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide].. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Connecting to a high definition TV.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Connecting to a non-high-definition 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Using “BRAVIA” Sync.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Editing
Deleting movies and photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Acquiring the current location information (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Capturing a photo from a movie.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Dubbing/copying movies and photos from the internal hard disk to “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Dubbing movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Copying photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Protecting recorded movies and photos (Protect).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Dividing a movie.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Using the Playlist of movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Creating the Playlist.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Playing the Playlist.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Creating a disc with a DVD writer, recorder.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Creating a high definition image quality (HD) disc with a DVD writer, etc.
(USB cable connection).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Index
Creating a standard definition image quality (SD) disc with a recorder, etc.
(A/V connecting cable connection).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Checking the battery information.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Utilizing recording media

Changing the recording medium.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Selecting the recording media for movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Selecting the recording media for photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Inserting “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Checking the media information.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Deleting all movies and photos (Formatting).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Preventing data on the internal hard disk from being recovered.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Customizing your camcorder
Table of Contents
MOVIE SETTINGS (Items for recording movies).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
FACE FUNC. SET (Items to set face function).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
VIEW IMAGES SET (Items to customize the display).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
SOUND/DISP SET (Items to adjust the sound and the screen). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
OUTPUT SETTINGS (Items for when connected to a TV).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
CLOCK/ LANG (Items to set clock and language).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
GENERAL SET (Other setup items).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Functions set in the OPTION MENU.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Self-diagnosis display/Warning indicators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Additional information
Recording time of movies/number of recordable photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Expected time of recording and playback with each battery pack.. . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Expected recording time of movies.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Expected number of recordable photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Using your camcorder abroad.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
File/folder structure on the internal hard disk and “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Maintenance and precautions.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
About the AVCHD format.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
About GPS (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
About “Memory Stick” media.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
About x.v.Color.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
About handling of your camcorder.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Index.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Index

Useful recording techniques
Capturing facial Getting a good shot
expressions in dim of a ski slope or
light beach
Table of Contents
 LOW LUX.................................................... 35  AUTO BACK LIGHT....................................... 80
 BEACH...................................................... 104
 SNOW...................................................... 104
Compensating for Capturing smiles

camera shake during automatically
movie recording
 STEADYSHOT........................................ 77  SMILE SHUTTER.......................................... 87
A child on the stage Flowers in close-up

under a spot light
 SPOTLIGHT............................................... 104  PORTRAIT................................................. 104

 FOCUS...................................................... 103
 TELE MACRO............................................. 102
Fireworks with all its Focusing on the dog

splendor on the left side of
the screen
 FIREWORKS.............................................. 104  FOCUS...................................................... 103
 FOCUS...................................................... 103  SPOT FOCUS............................................. 102
 SPOT MTR/FCS.......................................... 101 Index

Parts and controls
Figures in ( ) are reference pages.  You cannot use an external flash (sold
separately) and the built-in flash at the same
Table of Contents
time.
 When an external microphone (sold
separately) is connected, it takes precedence
over the built-in microphone (p. 34).
 A/V Remote Connector (51, 68)
  (USB) jack (67)
 HDMI OUT (mini) jack (51)
 Remote sensor/Infrared port
Point the Wireless Remote Commander (p. 9)
towards the remote sensor to operate your
camcorder.
 Lens (G lens)
 Flash (79, 83)

 Camera recording lamp (98)
The camera recording lamp lights up in red
 Built-in microphone (34) during recording. The lamp flashes when the
When an external microphone (sold remaining recording media capacity or battery
separately) is connected, it takes precedence power is low.
over the built-in microphone.  MANUAL dial (38)
 Active Interface Shoe  MANUAL button (38)

The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to

accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a
microphone (sold separately). The accessory
can be turned on or off as you open or close
the LCD screen of your camcorder. Refer to
the operating instructions supplied with your
accessory for details.
The Active Interface Shoe has a safety device
for fixing the installed accessory securely. To
connect an accessory, press down and push
 LCD screen/Touch panel (12, 36)
it to the end, and then tighten the screw. To
remove an accessory, loosen the screw, and If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees, you
Index
then press down and pull out the accessory. can close the LCD panel with the LCD screen
facing out. This is convenient during playback
 When you open or close the shoe cover,
operations.
slide it as indicated by the arrow.
 When you are recording movies with an  (HOME) button (12)
external flash (sold separately) connected  Zoom buttons (34, 49)
to the accessory shoe, turn off the power of  START/STOP button (25, 30)
the external flash to prevent charging noise
being recorded.

Table of Contents
 Speaker
 (VIEW IMAGES) button (27, 41)
 POWER button (21)
 RESET button
Press RESET to initialize all the settings
including the clock setting.
 DISP (display) button (38)
 EASY button (24, 25)
 GPS switch (HDR-XR500V/XR520V) (39)

 Access lamp (“Memory Stick PRO Duo”  Eyecup
media) (70)  Viewfinder (31)
While the lamp is lit or flashing, the  Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (31)
camcorder is reading or writing data.
 (Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (21)
 “Memory Stick Duo” media slot (70)  ACCESS lamp (Hard disk) (18)
 Battery pack (18) While the lamp is lit or flashing, the
 (DISC BURN) button (see Operating camcorder is reading or writing data.
Guide)  /CHG (flash/charge) lamp (18)
 STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch (35)  START/STOP button (25, 30)
 DC IN jack (18)
 Power zoom lever (34, 49)
 PHOTO button (26, 32)
 MODE button (26, 32)
  (headphones) jack
 MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack
 Grip belt (24, 30)
 Hook for a shoulder belt
Index
 Tripod receptacle
Attach a tripod (sold separately) to the
tripod receptacle using a tripod screw (sold
separately: the length of the screw must be less
than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)).
 BATT (battery) release lever (19)

 Notes
Remove the insulation sheet before using the
Wireless Remote Commander Wireless Remote Commander.
Insulation sheet
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 Point the Wireless Remote Commander
towards the remote sensor to operate your
camcorder (p. 9).
 When no commands have been sent from the
Wireless Remote Commander within a certain
period, the orange frame disappears. When
you press any of ///, or ENTER again,
the frame appears at the position where it was
displayed last.
 You cannot select some buttons on the LCD
screen using ///.
 DATA CODE button (90)

To change the battery of the Wireless
Displays the date and time, camera setting
Remote Commander
data, or coordinates (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)
 While pressing on the tab, inset your fingernail
of the recorded images when you press this
button during playback. into the slit to pull out the battery case.
 Place a new battery with the + side facing up.
 PHOTO button (26, 32)  Insert the battery case back into the Wireless
The on-screen image when you press this Remote Commander until it clicks.
button will be recorded as a still image.
 SCAN/SLOW buttons (28, 42)
 / (Previous/Next) buttons (28, 28,
42, 43) Tab
 PLAY button (28, 42)
 STOP button (28, 42)
 DISPLAY button (38) WARNING
Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not
 Transmitter
recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.
 START/STOP button (25, 30)
 Power zoom buttons (34, 49)  When the lithium battery becomes weak, the
 PAUSE button (28, 42) operating distance of the Wireless Remote
Commander may shorten, or the Wireless
Index
 VISUAL INDEX button (26, 41)

Displays a VISUAL INDEX screen during Remote Commander may not function
playback. properly. In this case, replace the battery with
a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another
 ////ENTER buttons battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
When you press any of these buttons, the
orange frame appears on the LCD screen.
Select a desired button or an item with
///, then press ENTER to enter.

Screen indicators Indicator Meaning
Recording/playback media
Upper left Center Upper right (70)
Counter (hour:minute:
0:00:00
seond) (26, 41)
Estimated recording
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[00min]
remaining time (26, 41)
FADER (106)
LCD backlight off (38)
Bottom Drop sensor off (99)
Drop sensor activated (99)
Upper left Approximate number of
9999
Indicator Meaning recordable photos and
9999
HOME button (12) recording media (25, 32)
AUDIO MODE (75) Playback folder (43)
Self-timer recording (107) Current playing movie or
photo/Number of total
GPS tracking status (39) 100/112
recorded movies or photos
YOUR LOCATION (28, 43)
(59)

Flash, REDEYE REDUC Bottom
(79, 84) Indicator Meaning
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC (106) FACE DETECTION (86)
MICREF LEVEL low (107) DETECTION SET (87)
WIDE SELECT (76) LOW LUX (35)
 60 min Remaining battery  Manual focus (103)
Return button (12)
SCENE SELECTION
(104)
Center
Indicator Meaning  White balance (105)
[STBY]/[REC] Recording status (25, 30) SteadyShot off (77, 83)
SPOT MTR/FCS/SPOT
Photo size (81) METER/EXPOSURE (101,
103)
Slide show set (50)
AE SHIFT (75)
NightShot (35)
WB SHIFT (75)
 Warning (115) TELE MACRO (102)
X.V.COLOR (77)
Index
 Playback mode (28, 41)

CONVERSION LENS
Upper right (80, 85)
Indicator Meaning OPTION button (12)
Recording image quality VIEW IMAGES button
(HD/SD) and recording (27, 41)
mode (FH/HQ/SP/LP) Slide show button (50)
(74)
10
Indicator Meaning
101-0005 Data file name (28, 43)
 Protected image (63)
VISUAL INDEX button
(28, 43)
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 Indicators and their positions are approximate
and may differ from what you actually see.
 Some indicators may not appear depending on
the model.

Index
11
Using the HELP function
“ HOME” and “ To see the descriptions on the HOME
OPTION” - Taking MENU, touch (HELP) on the HOME
advantage of two MENU screen. (The bottom of turns

orange.) Then, touch the item you want to
types of menus
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know about.
Using the HOME MENU Using the OPTION MENU
When you press the (HOME) button, the The OPTION MENU appears just like
HOME MENU appears. You can change the the pop-up window that appears when you
settings of your camcorder, etc. right-click the mouse on a computer. The
menu items you can change in the context
appears.
(HOME)
(HOME) button (OPTION)

 Touch the desired category 
the menu item to be changed.
 Touch the desired tab  the
Menu item
item to change the setting.
Menu item
Category
Tab
 Follow the instructions on the
screen.
 After completing the setting,
touch .
 After completing the setting,
touch .
Index
 When the item is not on the screen, touch  Notes

/ .  When the item you want is not on the screen,
 To return to the previous screen, touch touch another tab. (There may be no tab.)
.  You cannot use the OPTION MENU during
 To hide the HOME MENU screen, touch Easy Handycam operation.
.  The tabs and items that appear on the screen
 You cannot select the grayed items or depend on the recording/playback status of
settings. your camcorder at the time.
12
Menu lists USB CONNECT
USB CONNECT p. 67
USB CONNECT p. 67
List of the HOME MENU DISC BURN Operating Guide
DOWNLOAD MUSIC p. 47
(CAMERA) category
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TV CONNECT Guide*1 p. 51
MOVIE*1 p. 30 MUSIC TOOL p. 47
PHOTO*1 p. 32 DOWNLOAD MUSIC*1 p. 47
SMTH SLW REC p. 37 EMPTY MUSIC*1 p. 47
BATTERY INFO p. 69
(VIEW IMAGES) category
VISUAL INDEX*1 p. 42 (MANAGE MEDIA) category
MAP*1*3 p. 44 MOVIE MEDIA SET*1 p. 70
FILM ROLL*1 p. 45 PHOTO MEDIA SET*1 p. 70
FACE*1 p. 46 MEDIA INFO p. 72
PLAYLIST p. 65 MEDIA FORMAT*1 p. 72
REPAIR IMG.DB F. p. 112, 116
(OTHERS) category
DELETE*1 (SETTINGS) category
DELETE p. 57 MOVIE SETTINGS

DELETE p. 57 / SET*1 p. 74
YOUR LOCATION*1*3 p. 59 REC MODE p. 74
PHOTO CAPTURE p. 60 AUDIO MODE p. 75
MOVIE DUB AE SHIFT p. 75
DUB p. 61
WB SHIFT p. 75
DUB p. 61
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT p. 76
PHOTO COPY
WIDE SELECT p. 76
COPY by select p. 62
DIGITAL ZOOM p. 76
COPY by date p. 62
STEADYSHOT p. 77
EDIT
X.V.COLOR p. 77
DELETE p. 57
GUIDEFRAME p. 78
DELETE p. 57
REMAINING SET p. 78
PROTECT p. 63
FLASH MODE*1 p. 79
PROTECT p. 63
FLASH LEVEL p. 79
DIVIDE p. 64
REDEYE REDUC p. 79
PLAYLIST EDIT
DIAL SETTING p. 80
ADD/ ADD p. 65
CONVERSION LENS p. 80
ADD by date/ p. 65
Index
ADD by date AUTO BACK LIGHT p. 80

ERASE/ p. 66 PHOTO SETTINGS
ERASE IMAGE SIZE*1 p. 81
ERASE ALL/ p. 66 FILE NO. p. 81
ERASE ALL AE SHIFT p. 81
MOVE/ p. 66 WB SHIFT p. 82
MOVE
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT p. 82
STEADYSHOT p. 83
13
GUIDEFRAME p. 83 *2 You cannot set [FRAME SETTING] during
FLASH MODE* 1
p. 83 Easy Handycam operation.
*3 HDR-XR500V/XR520V
FLASH LEVEL p. 84
REDEYE REDUC p. 84
DIAL SETTING p. 84
List of the OPTION MENU
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CONVERSION LENS p. 85 Following items are available on the
AUTO BACK LIGHT p. 85 OPTION MENU only.
FACE FUNC. SET
FACE DET. SETTING p. 86 tab
SMILE SHUTTER*2 p. 87 SPOT MTR/FCS p. 101
VIEW IMAGES SET SPOT METER p. 101
/ SET p. 88 SPOT FOCUS p. 102
DATA CODE p. 88 TELE MACRO p. 102
SOUND/DISP SET EXPOSURE p. 103
VOLUME*1 p. 91 FOCUS p. 103
BEEP*1 p. 91 SCENE SELECTION p. 104
LCD BRIGHT p. 91 WHITE BAL. p. 105
LCD BL LEVEL p. 91
tab

LCD COLOR p. 92
FADER p. 106
OUTPUT SETTINGS
TV TYPE p. 93
tab
DISP OUTPUT p. 94
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC p. 106
COMPONENT p. 94
MICREF LEVEL p. 107
HDMI RESOLUTION p. 94
SELF-TIMER p. 107
CLOCK/ LANG
TIMING p. 37
CLOCK SET*1 p. 21
AREA SET p. 96 The tab depends on the situation/no tab
AUTO CLOCK ADJ*3 p. 96 SLIDE SHOW p. 50
AUTO AREA ADJ*3 p. 96 SLIDE SHOW SET p. 50
DST SET/SUMMERTIME p. 97
LANGUAGE SET*1 p. 97
GENERAL SET
DEMO MODE p. 98
REC LAMP p. 98
CALIBRATION p. 131
A.SHUT OFF p. 99
Index
REMOTE CTRL p. 99

DROP SENSOR p. 99
CTRL FOR HDMI p. 100
 [SOUND/DISP SET] is changed to [SOUND

SETTINGS] during Easy Handycam operation.
*1 You can set this item during Easy Handycam

operation.
14
Read this before Battery pack
operating your
camcorder
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Supplied items
The numbers in ( ) are the supplied Shoe cover
quantity.
 AC Adaptor (1)
 Power cord (Mains lead) (1)
 Component A/V cable (1) 
 A/V connecting cable (1) 
 USB cable (1) 
 Wireless Remote Commander (1)
 The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed
 A button-type lithium battery is already or waterproofed. See “About handling of your
installed. camcorder” (p. 130).
 Rechargeable battery pack NP-FH60 (1)  Do not do any of the following when the
 CD-ROM “Handycam Application (Movie)/ (Photo) mode lamps (p. 21) or
Software” (1) the ACCESS/access lamps (p. 18, 70) are lit or

 “PMB” (software, including “PMB Guide”) flashing. Otherwise, the recording media may
 “Handycam Handbook” (PDF) be damaged, recorded images may be lost or
 “Operating Guide” (1) other malfunctions could occur.
 Ejecting the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
from the camcorder
 Removing the battery pack or AC Adaptor
from the camcorder
 Applying mechanical shock or vibration to
 See page 70 for “Memory Stick” media you can the camcorder
use with this camcorder.  When connecting your camcorder to another
device with a cable, be sure to insert the
Using the camcorder
connector plug in the correct way. Pushing the
 Do not hold the camcorder by the following plug forcibly into the terminal will damage the
parts, and also do not hold the camcorder by terminal and may result in a malfunction of
the jack covers. your camcorder.
Viewfinder  Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the
camcorder, holding both the camcorder and the
DC plug.
 Even if the camcorder is turned off, the GPS
function is working as long as the GPS switch
Index
is set to ON. Make sure that the GPS switch is

set to OFF during take off and landing of an
LCD screen airplane (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).
Menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and

lens
 A menu item that is grayed out is not available
under the current recording or playback
conditions.
15
 The viewfinder and the LCD screen are Playing back recorded images on other
manufactured using extremely high-precision devices
technology, so over 99.99% of the pixels are  Your camcorder is compatible with MPEG4
operational for effective use. However, there AVC/H.264 High Profile for high definition
may be some tiny black points and/or bright image quality (HD) recording. Therefore,
points (white, red, blue, or green in color) that you cannot play back images recorded with
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appear constantly in the viewfinder and on the high definition image quality (HD) on your
LCD screen. These points are normal results of camcorder with the following devices;
the manufacturing process and do not affect the  Other AVCHD format compatible devices
recording in any way. which are not compatible with High Profile
 Devices which are not compatible with the
AVCHD format
Discs recorded with high definition

image quality (HD)
 This camcorder captures high definition footage
in the AVCHD format. DVD media containing
Black point
AVCHD footage should not be used with DVD
White, red, blue or green point
based players or recorders, as the DVD player/
 Exposing the LCD screen, the viewfinder, or the
recorder may fail to eject the media and may
lens to direct sunlight for long periods of time
erase its contents without warning. DVD media
may cause malfunctions.

containing AVCHD footage may be played on
 Do not aim at the sun. Doing so might cause
a compatible Blu-ray Disc player/recorder or
your camcorder to malfunction. Take images
other compatible device.
of the sun only in low light conditions, such as
at dusk.
Notes on using the Hard Disk Drive
About changing the language setting
Handycam
The on-screen displays in each local language are
used for illustrating the operating procedures. Save all your recorded image data
Change the screen language before using your  To prevent your image data from being lost,
camcorder if necessary (p. 22). save all your recorded images on external media
periodically. It is recommended that you save
Recording
the image data on a disc such as a DVD-R using
 Before starting to record, test the recording your computer (see Operating Guide). Also,
function to make sure that the image and sound you can save your image data using a VCR, or a
are recorded without any problems. DVD/HDD recorder (p. 67).
 Compensation for the contents of recordings
cannot be provided, even if recording or Do not apply shock or vibration to your
playback is not possible due to a malfunction of camcorder
the camcorder, storage media, etc.
 The hard disk of the camcorder may not be
 TV color systems differ depending on the
recognized, or recording or playback may not
Index
country/region. To view your recordings on a

be possible.
TV, you need an NTSC system-based TV.
 Especially, during recording/playback, do not
 Television programs, films, video tapes,
apply shock. After recording, do not apply
and other materials may be copyrighted.
vibration or shock to the camcorder, while the
Unauthorized recording of such materials may
ACCESS lamp is lit.
be contrary to the copyright laws.
 When using a shoulder belt (sold separately), do
not crash the camcorder against an object.
 Do not use your camcorder in very loud areas.
16
On the drop sensor If you cannot record/play back images,
 To protect the internal hard disk from shock perform [MEDIA FORMAT]
by dropping, the camcorder has a drop sensor  If you repeat recording/deleting images for
function (p. 99). When a drop occurs, or a long time, fragmentation of data occurs on
under a non-gravity condition, the block noise the recording media. Images cannot be saved
made when this function is activated by the or recorded. In such a case, save your images
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camcorder may also be recorded. If the drop on some type of external media first (p. 67,
sensor catches a drop repeatedly, recording/ see Operating Guide too), and then perform
playback may be stopped. [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 72).
Note on battery pack/AC Adaptor

 Be sure to remove the battery pack or the AC
Adaptor after turning off the camcorder.
Note on operating temperatures

 When the temperature of the camcorder
becomes extremely high or extremely low, you
may not be able to record or play back on the
camcorder, due to the protection features of the
camcorder being activated in such situations.
In this case, an indicator appears on the LCD

screen (p. 115).
When the camcorder is connected to a

computer
 Do not try to format the hard disk or music file
storage area of the camcorder using a computer.
If you do so, your camcorder may not operate
correctly.
Note on using the camcorder at high

altitudes
 Do not turn on the camcorder in a low-pressure
area, where the altitude is more than 5,000
meters (16,000 feet). Doing so may damage the
hard disk drive of your camcorder.
Note on disposal/transfer
 Even if you perform [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 72)
or formatting the hard disk of the camcorder,
you may not delete data from the hard disk
completely. When you transfer the camcorder, it
Index
is recommended that you perform [ EMPTY]

(p. 72) to prevent the recovery of your data.
Also, when you dispose of the camcorder, it is
recommended that you destroy the actual body
of the camcorder.
17
Getting started
Step 1: Charging the battery pack
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Battery pack
DC IN jack ACCESS lamp

DC plug (hard disk) /CHG lamp
AC Adaptor Power cord (mains lead)

To the wall outlet
(wall socket)
You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series) after attaching it to your
camcorder.
 You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the H series to your camcorder.
1
Turn off your camcorder by closing the LCD screen after replacing the
viewfinder.
2
Attach the battery pack by sliding it in the direction of the arrow until it
clicks.
3
Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to your
camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket).
 Align the  mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack.
The /CHG lamp lights up and charging starts. The /CHG lamp turns off when the
Index
battery pack is fully charged.
4
When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN
jack of your camcorder.
18
 See page 119 on recording and playing time.
 When your camcorder is on, you can check the approximate amount of remaining battery power with the
remaining battery indicator at the upper left on the LCD screen.
Charging time
Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack.
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Battery pack Charging time
NP-FH50 135
NP-FH60 (supplied) 135
NP-FH70 170
NP-FH100 390
 Time measured with the camcorder at 25 C (77 F). 10 C to 30 C (50 F to 86 F) is recommended.
To remove the battery pack

Close the LCD screen. Slide the BATT (battery) release lever  and remove the battery pack
.

To use a wall outlet (wall socket) as a power source
Make the same connections as “Step 1: Charging the battery pack.” Even if the battery pack is
attached, the battery pack is not discharged.
Charging the battery pack abroad

You can charge the battery pack in any countries/regions using the AC Adaptor supplied with
your camcorder within the AC 100 V - 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range.
 Do not use an electronic voltage transformer.
Notes on the battery pack

 When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, replace the viewfinder, close the LCD
screen and make sure that the (Movie) lamp/ (Photo) lamp (p. 21)/ACCESS lamp (p. 18)/access
lamp (p. 70) are turned off.
 The /CHG lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions:
 The battery pack is not attached correctly.
Index
 The battery pack is damaged.

 When attaching a video light (sold separately), it is recommended that you use an NP-FH70 or NP-
FH100 battery pack.
 We do not recommend using an NP-FH30, which only allows short recording and playback times, with
your camcorder.
 In the default setting, the power turns off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any
operation for about 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF]).
19
Notes on the AC Adaptor
 Use the nearby wall outlet (wall socket) when using the AC Adaptor. Disconnect the AC Adaptor from
the wall outlet (wall socket) immediately if any malfunction occurs while using your camcorder.
 Do not use the AC Adaptor placed in a narrow space, such as between a wall and furniture.
 Do not short-circuit the DC plug of the AC Adaptor or battery terminal with any metallic objects. This
may cause a malfunction.
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Index
20
Step 2: Turning the power on, and setting the
date and time
1
Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
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Your camcorder is turned on.
 To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER.
POWER
(Movie): To record movies

(Photo): To record photos
2
Select the desired geographical area with / , then touch [NEXT].

Touch the button on the
LCD screen.
 To set the date and time again, touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG] 
[CLOCK SET]. When an item is not on the screen, touch / until the item appears.
3
Set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME], date and time, then touch
.
 
The clock starts.

 If you set [DST SET] or [SUMMERTIME] to [ON], the clock advances 1 hour.
Index
 The date and time do not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the recording
media, and can be displayed during playback. To display the date and time, touch (HOME) 
(SETTINGS)  [VIEW IMAGES SET]  [DATA CODE]  [DATE/TIME]    .
 You can turn off the operation beeps by touching (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [SOUND/DISP
SET]  [BEEP]  [OFF]    .
21
 If the button you touch does not react correctly, calibrate the touch panel (p. 131).
 Once the clock is set, the clock time is automatically adjusted with [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO
AREA ADJ] set to [ON] (p. 96). The clock may not be adjusted to the correct time automatically,
depending on the country/region selected for your camcorder. In this case, set [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and
[AUTO AREA ADJ] to [OFF] (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).
To turn off the power
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Close the LCD screen. The (Movie) lamp flashes for a few seconds, and the power is turned
off.
POWER
 You can turn off your camcorder also by pressing POWER.

 If the viewfinder is pulled out, retract the viewfinder as shown in the illustration below.

On turning the camcorder on or off using the LCD screen or the viewfinder
The power of the camcorder is turned on or off depending on the status of the LCD screen or
the viewfinder.
Status Power of the
LCD screen Viewfinder camcorder
Open Retracted On
Pulled out On
Closed Retracted Off
Pulled out On
 Notes
Even if the LCD screen is closed, if the viewfinder is pulled out, the camcorder is not turned off. When
you turn off the power of the camcorder, make sure that the viewfinder is retracted to the original
position.
Index
Changing the language setting

You can change the on-screen displays to show messages in a specified language.
Touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG]  [ LANGUAGE SET]
 a desired language    .
22
Recording/Playback
Five pieces of advice for successful recording
Stabilizing your camcorder
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When you hold the camcorder, keep your upper body upright,
and hold your arms close to your body.
The SteadyShot function is effective against camera-shake,
however, it is essential that you not move the camcorder.
Zooming smoothly
Zoom in and out slowly and smoothly. And, use zooming
sparingly. Excessive zooming will make movies that may make
the viewer feel tired when viewing them.
Evoking a feeling of spaciousness

Use the panning technique. Stabilize yourself, move your
camcorder horizontally as you turn your upper body slowly. Stay
still at the end of panning for a while to make the scene look
stable.
Accentuating movies with narration

Consider the sound to be recorded with your movies. Narrate
the subject, or talk to the subject during shooting.
Aim for a balanced volume of voices, since the recording person
is closer to the microphone than the recorded person.
Using accessories
Make good use of camcorder accessories.
For example, using a tripod, you can make a time-lapse
recording or record subjects in dim light, such as scenes of
fireworks, or night views. By always carrying spare batteries, you
Index
can continue recording without worrying about battery power

shortages.
23
Recording and playing movies and photos easily
( Easy Handycam Operation)
Simply press EASY. You can record or play movies and photos easily (Easy Handycam
operation).
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During Easy Handycam operation, you can set basic options, such as changing the image size
or deleting images, among the setting and adjustment items. Other items are set automatically.
 When Easy Handycam operation is started, nearly all menu settings are reset to the default settings
automatically. (Some menu items retain the settings that were made before Easy Handycam operation.)
Recording movies
In the default setting, movies are recorded with
high definition image quality (HD) on the hard disk
(p. 70, 74).


 Fasten the grip belt.

 Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.
 To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is open, press POWER (p. 21).

 Press EASY.
appears on the LCD screen.
Index
24

 Press START/STOP to start recording.
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[STBY]  [REC]
To stop recording, press START/STOP again.

 Tips
 The [REC MODE] is fixed to [HD SP] or [SD SP] (p. 74).
Shooting photos
 Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.

 To turn on your camcorder when the LCD screen is already open, press POWER (p. 21).

 Press EASY.
appears on the LCD screen.
Index
25

 Press MODE to turn on the (Photo) lamp.
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 Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.

Flashes  Lights up
When disappears, the photo is recorded on the internal hard disk.
Playing movies

Index
26

 Press (VIEW IMAGES).
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The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.

 Touch the (or ) tab ()  a desired movie ().
HOME MENU Searches for images by

date (p. 48)
Previous 12 images
Next 12 images

Returns to the
recording screen
 : Displays the Highlight Playback screen (p. 47).

 : Displays the screen to select the index type ([ MAP] (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)/
[ FILM ROLL]/[ FACE]) (p. 44, 45, 46).
 : Displays high definition image quality (HD) movies.*
 : Displays photos.
* appears when you select standard definition image quality (SD) movies in [ / SET]
(p. 88).
  appears with the movie or photo that was most recently played or recorded. If you touch the
movie or photo with , you can continue playback from the previous time. ( appears on the
photo recorded on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.)
Index
27
Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.
Volume adjustment
Previous Next
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To stop
To fast-forward
To fast-reverse To pause/play
 Tips
 When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX
screen.
 You can slow down the playback speed by touching / during pause.
 You can adjust the volume by touching  adjust with /  during playback.
 The setting of [DATA CODE] is fixed to [DATE/TIME] (p. 88).
To change the recording media, select the recording media on [MOVIE MEDIA SET] (p. 70).


 Protected demonstration movie has been provided on your camcorder when you buy it.
Viewing photos
On the VISUAL INDEX screen, touch the (Photo) tab ()  a desired photo
().
Displays the Map Index

screen (p. 44) (HDR-
XR500V/XR520V)
Your camcorder starts playing the selected photo.

Index
Previous Slide show/pause
Next
To the VISUAL
INDEX screen
28
 Tips
 The setting of [DATA CODE] is fixed to [DATE/TIME] (p. 88).
 To change the recording media, select the recording media on [PHOTO MEDIA SET] (p. 70).
To cancel Easy Handycam operation

After you finish recording, or close menu setting screen, press EASY again. disappears
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from the LCD screen.
Menu settings during Easy Handycam operation

Press (HOME) to display the menu items available for setup changes. See “Menu lists”
(p. 13) on the available menu items.
 Notes
 You cannot use the OPTION MENU.
 Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want to add effects to images or change settings.
Invalid buttons during Easy Handycam operation

You cannot use some buttons/functions during Easy Handycam operation since they are
automatically set. If you set an invalid operation, [Invalid during Easy Handycam operation.]
may appear.

Index
29
Recording
Recording movies
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In the default setting, movies are recorded with high
definition image quality (HD) on the internal hard
disk (p. 70, 74).

 Fasten the grip belt.

 Open the LCD screen of your camcorder.

 Press START/STOP to start recording.
[STBY]  [REC]
Index
To stop recording, press START/STOP again.
30
 See page 120 on the recordable time of movies.
 The maximum continuous recordable time of movies is about 13 hours.
 When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next movie file is created automatically.
 You can change the recording media and image quality (p. 70, 74).
 [ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ACTIVE] in the default setting.
 It will take several seconds until you can start recording after you turn on the camcorder. You cannot
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operate your camcorder during this time.
 If you close the LCD screen while recording movies, the camcorder stops recording.
 If the ACCESS/access lamp is lit or flashing after recording is finished, it means that data is still being
written onto the recording media. Do not apply shock or vibration to your camcorder, and do not remove
the battery or AC Adaptor.
 You can check the recordable time and the remaining capacity, etc., by touching (HOME) 
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [MEDIA INFO] (p. 72).
 To adjust the angle of the LCD panel, first open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and
then adjust the angle (). If you rotate the LCD panel 180 degrees to the lens side (), you can record
movies/photos in mirror mode.
 90 degrees (max.)
 180 degrees (max.)  90 degrees to the camcorder

 When you make recording with the viewfinder only, pull out the viewfinder (), close the LCD panel,
and adjust the angle to your comfortable position(). If the indicators on the viewfinder appear blurred,
adjust the focus with the viewfinder lens adjustment lever located beneath the viewfinder.
 When you open or close the LCD screen, or adjust the angle, be careful not to press the buttons on the
side of the LCD screen by mistake.
 Tips
 You can record photos during movie recording by pressing PHOTO ([Dual Rec], p. 35).
 When a face is detected, a white frame appears and the image quality around the face is optimized
automatically ([FACE DET. SETTING], p. 86).
 In the default setting, a photo is recorded automatically when the camcorder detects the smile of a person
during movie recording ([SMILE SHUTTER], p. 87). An orange frame appears around a face targeted for
possible smile detection shot.
You can capture photos from recorded movies (p. 60).
Index

 You can switch the shooting mode by touching (HOME)  (CAMERA)  [MOVIE].
 The LCD screen of your camcorder can display recording images across the entire screen (full pixel
display). However, this may cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right and left edges of images when
played back on a TV which is not compatible with full pixel display. In this case, set [GUIDEFRAME] to
[ON] (p. 78), and record images using the outer frame displayed on the screen as a guide.
31
Data code during recording
The recording date, time and condition, and coordinates (HDR-XR500V/XR520V) are
recorded automatically on the recording media. They are not displayed during recording.
However, you can check them as [DATA CODE] during playback (p. 88).
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Shooting photos
In the default setting, photos are recorded on the internal hard disk (p. 70).


 Press MODE to turn on the (Photo) lamp.

 Press PHOTO lightly to adjust the focus, then press it fully.
Index
Flashes  Lights up
When disappears, the photo is recorded.
32
 See page 121 on the recordable number of photos.
 To change the image size, touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS] 
[ IMAGE SIZE]  a desired setting    (p. 81).
 You can record photos during movie recording by pressing PHOTO ([Dual Rec], p. 35).
 Your camcorder flashes automatically when there is insufficient ambient light. The flash does not work
during movie recording. You can change how your camcorder flashes by [FLASH MODE] (p. 83) .
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 You cannot record photos while is displayed.

Index
33
Useful functions for recording movies and photos
Zooming
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You can magnify images up to 12 times the original size with the power zoom lever or the
zoom buttons on the LCD frame.
Wider range of view Close view

(Wide angle) (Telephoto)

Move the power zoom lever slightly for a slower zoom. Move it further for a faster zoom.
 Notes
 Be sure to keep your finger on the power zoom lever. If you move your finger off the power zoom lever,
the operation sound of the power zoom lever may also be recorded.
 You cannot change the zoom speed with the zoom buttons on the LCD frame.
 The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1
cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.
 Tips
 You can set [DIGITAL ZOOM] (p. 76) if you want to zoom to a greater than 12 times.
Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording)

Dolby Digital 5.1ch surround sound can be recorded with the built-in microphone. You can
enjoy realistic sound when playing the movie on devices that support 5.1ch surround sound.
Built-in microphone
Index
34
 Notes
 If you play back 5.1ch sound on your camcorder, 5.1ch sound is automatically converted and output in
2ch.
 To enjoy the 5.1ch surround sound of the movies recorded with high definition image quality (HD) in
5.1ch sound, you need an AVCHD format device compatible with 5.1ch surround.
 When you connect your camcorder with an HDMI cable (sold separately), the sound of high definition
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image quality (HD) movies recorded in 5.1ch sound is automatically output in 5.1ch sound. The sound of
standard definition image quality (SD) movies is converted to 2ch.
 Tips
 You can select the recording sound from [5.1ch SURROUND] ( ) or [2ch STEREO] ( )
([AUDIO MODE], p. 75).
 You can create a disc, which contains the movies recorded on your camcorder, on a computer using the
supplied software. If you play the disc on a 5.1ch surround system, you can enjoy realistic sound.
Recording high quality photos during movie recording (Dual Rec)

You can record high quality photos during movie recording by pressing PHOTO.
 Notes
 You cannot use the flash during movie recording.
 may appear when the capacity of the recording media is not enough or when you record photos

continuously. You cannot record photos while is displayed.
 Tips
 When the MODE lamp is set to (Movie), the size of photos becomes [ 8.3M] (16:9 wide) or [6.2M]
(4:3).
 You can record photos during recording standby in the same way as when the (Photo) lamp is turned
on. You can also record with the flash.
Recording in dark places (NightShot/LOW LUX)

HDR-XR500/XR520
Infrared port
Index
35
HDR-XR500V/XR520V
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Infrared port
When you want to record images in dim light, set the STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch
to LOW LUX. appears, and images will be recorded brighter than if you do not use LOW
LUX.
When you set the STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch to NIGHTSHOT, appears, and
you can record images even in total darkness.
Set the STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch to STD when recording in normal ambient
light.
 Notes
 The NightShot function uses infrared light. Therefore, do not cover the infrared port with your fingers or
other objects.

 Remove the conversion lens (sold separately).
 Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 103) when it is hard to focus automatically.
 Do not use the NightShot function in bright places. This may cause a malfunction.
Recording in mirror mode
Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder , then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens
side .
 Tips
 A mirror-image of the subject appears on the LCD screen, but the image will be normal when recorded.
Index
36
Recording fast action in slow-motion (SMTH SLW REC)
Fast moving subjects and actions, which cannot be captured under the ordinary shooting
conditions, can be shot in smooth moving slow-motion for about 3 seconds.
This is useful to shoot fast actions such as a golf or tennis swing.
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 Touch (HOME)  (CAMERA)  [SMTH SLW REC].

 Press START/STOP.
An about-3-second movie is recorded as a 12-second-slow-motion movie.
[Recording…] disappears, when recording is finished.

Touch to cancel the smooth slow recording.
To change the setting

Touch (OPTION)  tab, then select the setting you want to change.
[TIMING]
Select the recording start point after START/STOP is pressed. The default setting is [3sec
AFTER].
[3sec AFTER]
[3sec BEFORE]
 Notes
Index
 You cannot record sound with [SMTH SLW REC].

 Image quality of [SMTH SLW REC] is not as good as that of normal recording.
37
Switching the screen display, or turning the LCD backlight on/off
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You can switch the screen display when you press DISP while the power is set to on.
To turn off the LCD backlight, press and hold DISP down for a few seconds until appears.
This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or you want to save
battery power. The recorded image will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD
backlight, press and hold DISP down for a few seconds until disappears.
Controlling the image settings manually with the MANUAL dial

You can assign 1 menu item you use often to the MANUAL dial.
Since the focus adjustment is assigned to the MANUAL dial in the default settings, the
operation below is described as adjusting the focus using the dial.

MANUAL
MANUAL dial

 Press MANUAL to activate the manual adjustment mode.
Pressing MANUAL switches the setting mode between automatic and manual.

 Rotate the MANUAL dial to adjust the focus.
Items you can assign to the MANUAL dial

Index
 [FOCUS] (p. 103)
 [EXPOSURE] (p. 103)
 [AE SHIFT] (p. 75, 81)
 [WB SHIFT] (p. 75, 82)
38
To assign the menu items to the MANUAL dial
 Press and hold MANUAL down for a few seconds.
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 Rotate the MANUAL dial and select the item to be assigned.
 Press MANUAL.
 Notes
 Manual settings will be retained even if you change the assigned item of the MANUAL dial. However, if
you set [EXPOSURE] after setting [AE SHIFT] manually, [EXPOSURE] will override [AE SHIFT].
 If you select [RESET] in step , all the items adjusted manually are reset to the default settings.
 Tips
 The functions of the items that can be assigned to the MANUAL dial are the same as those of menu
operation.
 You can also assign menu items to the MANUAL dial by touching (HOME)  (SETTINGS) 
[MOVIE SETTINGS]/[PHOTO SETTINGS]  [DIAL SETTING].

Acquiring location information (GPS) (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)
Set the GPS switch to ON ( appears on the LCD screen). Your camcorder starts trying
to triangulate. When your camcorder triangulates successfully, it will record the location
information at the time movies and photos were recorded.
The movies and photos with location information will appear on a map (p. 44), so that you
can remember where you recorded those movies and photos.
In addition, you can acquire your current location information to check where you are at the
moment (p. 59).
 Using the supplied software, “PMB,” you can display the movies and photos where you recorded them on
a map. For details, see page 44.
Index
39
 Notes
The indicator changes according to the strength of GPS signal reception.
Triangulating status GPS indicators GPS reception status
Function off No The GPS switch is set to OFF, or the GPS receiver is not functioning
indicator normally.
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Difficult Your camcorder cannot find a GPS signal, therefore, it cannot
triangulate. Use your camcorder in an open area.
Processing Your camcorder is confirming the GPS signal, and will be able
to acquire location information soon. Wait until your camcorder
completes the triangulation.
Triangulating Your camcorder is receiving a GPS signal, and can acquire location
information.
Triangulating Your camcorder is receiving a strong GPS signal, and can acquire
location information.
 The GPS switch is set to ON in the default setting. Movies and photos recorded during triangulation by
GPS will be recorded with location information. If you do not want to record location information, set
the GPS switch to OFF.
 It may take from several seconds to several minutes to acquire the location information when you use the

GPS for the first time or use it again after long intervals.
 Even if the camcorder is turned off, the GPS function is working as long as the GPS switch is set to ON.
Make sure that the GPS switch is set to OFF during take off and landing of an airplane.
 You may not be able to acquire location information depending on the strength of GPS reception.
 Tips
 If the camcorder keeps displaying and does not start triangulating for a while, set the GPS switch to
OFF, and to ON again.
 You can search for movies and photos to be played on the Map Index (p. 44).
 When you play movies and photos with [DATA CODE] set to [COORDINATES], the location
information appears on the LCD screen (p. 88).
 You can use [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO AREA ADJ] to adjust the clock and the area.
Index
40
Playback on the camcorder
In the default setting, movies and photos that are recorded on the internal hard disk are
played (p. 70).
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Playing movies


 Press (VIEW IMAGES).

The VISUAL INDEX screen appears after some seconds.
 You can display the VISUAL INDEX screen by pressing (VIEW IMAGES) on the LCD screen
as well.

 Touch (or ) tab ()  a desired movie ().
To the list of recording

Previous
dates (p. 48)
Next
To return to
recording mode
Index
 : Displays the Highlight Playback screen (p. 47).

 : Displays the screen to select the index type ([ MAP](HDR-XR500V/XR520V)/[
FILM ROLL]/[ FACE]) (p. 44, 45, 46).
 : Displays high definition image quality (HD) movies*.
 : Displays photos.
* appears when the standard definition image quality (SD) movie is selected with [ /
SET] (p. 88).
41
  appears with the movie or photo that was most recently played or recorded. If you touch the
movie or photo with , you can continue playback from the previous time. ( appears on the
photo recorded on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.)
Your camcorder starts playing the selected movie.
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Previous Next
Volume adjustment
OPTION
To stop
To fast-forward
To fast-reverse To pause/play
 Tips
 When playback from the selected movie reaches the last movie, the screen returns to the VISUAL INDEX
screen.

 Touch / during pause to play back movies slowly.
 As you repeat touching / during playback, movies are played as fast as about 5 times  about
10 times  about 30 times  about 60 times.
 You can display the VISUAL INDEX by touching (HOME)  (VIEW IMAGES)  [VISUAL
INDEX].
 The recording date, time, and shooting conditions, and coordinates (HDR-XR500V/XR520V) are
recorded automatically during recording. This information is not displayed during recording, but you can
display it during playback by touching (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [VIEW IMAGES SET] 
[DATA CODE]  a desired setting    .
 Protected demonstration movie has been provided on your camcoder when you buy it.
To adjust the sound volume of movies

While playing back movies, touch  adjust with /  .
 You can adjust the sound volume from the OPTION MENU. Index
42
Viewing photos
Touch (Photo) tab   a desired photo  on the VISUAL INDEX screen.
Displays the Map Index
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screen (p. 44) (HDR-
XR500V/XR520V)
Your camcorder displays the selected photo.
Previous To start/stop slide show

Next
To the VISUAL
INDEX screen OPTION MENU
 Tips
 When viewing photos recorded on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media, (playback folder) appears on
the screen.
Index
43
Useful functions for playing movies and photos
Searching for a desired scene by recording location (Map Index) (HDR-
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XR500V/XR520V)
Where movies and photos were recorded is marked on a map. You can select a movie or photo
by recording location. Select the recording media which contains the movie or photo you
want to play back before starting this operation (p. 70).
 You can use the Map Index only with movies and photos having location information that was recorded
with the GPS switch set to ON (p. 39).
 You cannot use the Map Index with photos recorded on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.

 Press (VIEW IMAGES).
The VISUAL INDEX screen appears.

 Touch ( VIEW IMAGES)  [ MAP].

Returns to the VISUAL INDEX screen
Scale
Previous
Next
Image marker
Displays photos
 You can change the scale using the zoom lever or zoom buttons (W: larger, T: smaller).
 The point you touch on the map scrolls to the center automatically. If you hold a certain point, the map
keeps scrolling.
 will appear at the upper right corner of the thumbnail of the movie or photo without location
information.

 Touch the image marker where you recorded the movies and photos to be
played back.
Index
The image marker turns red. The movies or photos recorded at that location are displayed
on the left of the screen.
44

 Touch the desired movie or photo.
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Playback starts from the selected scene.
 Notes
 Make sure that you set the GPS switch to ON prior to recording, to be able to create movies and photos
that you can search for on the Map Index (p. 39).
 The map always displays the north at the top.
 When you record several movies and photos at the same location, the movie or photo recorded most
recently will be displayed on the LCD screen.
 Tips
 You can also display the Map Index screen by touching (HOME)  (VIEW IMAGES) 
[ MAP].

 You can also search for the thumbnail of the movie or photo you want to play by touching / in step
3. The recording location of the movie or photo will be displayed at the center of the map.
Searching for desired scene by pinpoint (Film Roll Index)

Movies can be divided by a set time and the first scene of each division is displayed on the
index screen. You can start playing back a movie from the selected thumbnail.
Select the recording media which contains the movie you want to play back before the
operation (p. 70).


 Touch ( VIEW IMAGES)  [ FILM ROLL].
Index
Sets the interval at which to create thumbnails of scenes in a movie.
45

 Touch / to select the desired movie.

 Touch / to search for the desired scene, then touch the scene you want
to play back.
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Playback starts from the selected scene.
 Tips
 You can also display the [Film Roll Index] screen by touching (HOME)  (VIEW IMAGES) 
[ FILM ROLL].
Searching for desired scene by face (Face Index)

The face images detected during movie recording are displayed on the index screen.
You can play back the movie from the selected face image.
Select the recording media which contains the movie you want to play back before the
operation (p. 70).


 Touch ( VIEW IMAGES)  [ FACE].

 Touch / to select the desired movie.

 Touch / to search for the desired face image, then touch the desired
Index
face image to view the scene.

Playback starts from the beginning of the scene with the selected face image.
46
 Notes
 Faces may not be detected depending on recording conditions.
Example: People wearing glasses or hats, or who do not face towards the camera.
 Make sure that you set [FACE DETECTION] to [ON] (the default setting) prior to recording, to search
movies on the Face Index (p. 86).
 Tips
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 You can also display the [Face Index] screen by touching (HOME)  (VIEW IMAGES) 
[ FACE].
Playing back a digest of your movies (HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK)

Your camcorder selects a number of short scenes at random, puts them together, and plays
them back as a digest of your high definition image quality (HD) movies with music and
visual effects. You cannot record a scene and specify it as a highlight scene. Scenes selected for
Highlight Playback differ each time Highlight Playback is selected.
Select the recording media which contains the movie you want to play back before you start
the operation (p. 70).



 Touch (HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK).
The settings for Highlight Playback appear. The Highlight Playback starts after several
seconds.
To stop Highlight Playback

To pause, touch .
To stop, touch  or .
Index
To change the settings for Highlight Playback

After touching in step 2, touch [HIGHLIGHT SET] before the Highlight Playback starts.
You can set following items.
 [PLAYBACK RANGE]
Set the range of movies to be played by selecting the from and to date, then touch .
If no range is set, your camcorder plays the movies starting from those of the date displayed on the
VISUAL INDEX screen until the most recently recorded movie.
47
 [THEME]
Select one of the following: [SIMPLE], [NOSTALGIC], [STYLISH], [ACTIVE] (the default setting)
The music category is selected automatically according to the theme.
 [MUSIC]
From the music category, you can select one of the following: [MUSIC1], [MUSIC2], [MUSIC3],
[MUSIC4] (the default setting), [ORIGINAL SOUND]
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 [SHUFFLE]
To play back movies in random order, select [ON].
To change music files

 You can transfer music files from audio CDs or MP3 files to your camcorder, and play them with
Highlight Playback. To transfer music files, you need to install the software from the supplied CD-ROM
on your computer. Turn on your camcorder and computer, connect them with the supplied USB cable,
then touch [DOWNLOAD MUSIC] on the camcorder screen. (If the [USB CONNECT] screen does not
appear, touch (HOME)  (OTHERS)  [USB CONNECT]). For details, see the “PMB Guide.”
 After the music file is transferred to the camcorder, if you cannot play the music, the music file may
be damaged. Delete the music file by touching (HOME)  (OTHERS)  [MUSIC TOOL]
[EMPTY MUSIC], then transfer the music file again. If you delete music files using [EMPTY MUSIC],
the music data recorded on your camcorder at the factory will be deleted too. In this case, you can restore
them using Music Transfer supplied with PMB. Refer to the PMB Guide for details.
 Notes

 The [PLAYBACK RANGE] setting is cleared when the Highlight Playback stops.
 You cannot save scenes selected for HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK.
 Tips
 You can change the settings for Highlight Playback during Highlight Playback by touching (OPTION).
 If you change the settings for Highlight Playback, Highlight Playback scenes are re-selected.
 If you change [MUSIC] after you select [THEME], the music will be selected automatically for the theme
from next time.
Searching for desired images by date (Date Index)

You can search for desired images by date efficiently.
Select the recording media which contains the image you want to play back before the
operation (p. 70).
 Notes
You cannot use the Date Index function for photos on “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.

Index

 To search for movies, touch the or tab. To search for photos, touch
the tab.
48

 Touch date on the screen.
The recording dates of images are displayed on the screen.
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 Touch / to select the date of the desired image, then touch .
The images of the selected date are displayed on the VISUAL INDEX screen.
 Tips
 On the [Film Roll Index]/[Face Index] screen, you can use the Date Index function by following the steps
3 to 4.

Using PB zoom with photos
You can magnify photos from about 1.1 to 5 times the original size.
Magnification can be adjusted with the power zoom lever or the zoom buttons on the LCD
frame.

 Play back the photo you want to magnify.

 Magnify the photo with T (Telephoto).
The screen is framed.

Index
 Touch the screen at the point you want to display in the center of the
displayed frame.
49

 Adjust the magnification with W (Wide angle)/T (Telephoto).
To cancel, touch .
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Playing back a series of photos (Slide show)

Touch on the photo playback screen.

The slide show begins from the selected photo.
To stop the slide show

Touch .
To restart the slide show

Touch again.
 Notes
You cannot operate playback zoom during slide show.
 Tips
 You can also play back the slide show by touching (OPTION)  tab  [SLIDE SHOW] on the
VISUAL INDEX screen.
 You can set continuous slide show playback by selecting (OPTION)  tab  [SLIDE SHOW
SET] while playing photos. The default setting is [ON] (continuous playback).
Index
50
Playing images on a TV
Connection methods and the image quality (high definition (HD) or standard definition
(SD)) viewed on the TV screen differ depending on what type of TV is connected, and the
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connectors used. You can connect your camcorder to the TV easily following the instructions
displayed on the LCD screen, [TV CONNECT Guide].
Connecting a TV using [TV CONNECT Guide]
 Switch the input on the TV to the connected jack.

Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.

 Turn on your camcorder, and touch (HOME)  (OTHERS)  [TV
CONNECT Guide] on the LCD screen.
 When an item is not on the screen, touch / until the item appears.
 Use the supplied AC Adaptor as the power source (p. 19).

 Connect your camcorder and TV referring to [TV CONNECT Guide].
Connectors on your camcorder
Input connectors on
the TV
 When the A/V connecting cable is used to output movies, movies are output with standard
definition image quality (SD).
Index

 Play back movies and photos on your camcorder (p. 41).
51
Connecting to a high definition TV
High definition image quality (HD) movies are played back with high definition image quality
(HD). Standard definition image quality (SD) movies are played back with standard definition
image quality (SD).
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 (p. 52)  (p. 52)
: Signal flow
Type Camcorder Cable TV HOME MENU setting

Component A/V cable
(SETTINGS) 
(supplied) [OUTPUT SETTINGS]
 [COMPONENT] 
(Green) Y
[1080i/480i] (p. 94)
(Blue) PB/CB
(Red) PR/CR
(White)
(Red)
 Notes
If you connect only component video plugs, audio signals are not output. Connect the white and red
plugs to output audio signals.
HDMI cable (sold separately)

Index
 Notes
 Use an HDMI cable with the HDMI logo.
 Use an HDMI mini connector on one end (for the camcorder), and a plug suitable for connecting your
TV on the other end.
 Images are not output from the HDMI OUT jack of your camcorder, if copyright protection signals are
recorded in the images.
52
 Some TVs may not function correctly (e.g., no sound or image) with this connection.
 Do not connect the HDMI OUT jack of your camcorder and HDMI OUT jack of the external device with
the HDMI cable. This may cause a malfunction.
 When the connected device is compatible with 5.1ch surround sound, high definition image quality (HD)
movies are output in 5.1ch surround sound automatically. Standard definition image quality (SD) movies
are converted to 2ch sound.
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Connecting to a non-high-definition 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV
High definition image quality (HD) movies are converted to standard definition image quality
(SD) and played back. Standard definition image quality (SD) movies are played back with
standard definition image quality (SD).

 (p. 54)  (p. 54)  (p. 54)
To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3)

Set [TV TYPE] to [16:9] or [4:3] according to your TV (p. 93).
 Notes
When you play back standard definition image quality (SD) movies on a 4:3 TV that is not compatible
with the 16:9 signal, record movies with 4:3 aspect ratio. Touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS) 
[MOVIE SETTINGS]  [WIDE SELECT]  [4:3]    (p. 76).
Index
53
: Signal flow
Type Camcorder Cable TV HOME MENU setting
(SETTINGS) 
[OUTPUT SETTINGS]
Component A/V cable
(supplied)
 [COMPONENT] 
(Green) Y
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[480i] (p. 94)
(Blue) PB/CB
(SETTINGS) 
(Red) PR/CR
[OUTPUT SETTINGS]
 [TV TYPE] 
(White) [16:9]/[4:3]* (p. 93)
(Red)
 Notes
If you connect only component video plugs, audio signals are not output. Connect the white and red
plugs to output audio signals.
(SETTINGS) 
A/V connecting cable with [OUTPUT SETTINGS]
S VIDEO (sold separately)  [TV TYPE] 

[16:9]/[4:3]* (p. 93)
(White)
(Red)
(Yellow)
 Notes
 When the S VIDEO plug (S VIDEO channel) is connected, audio signals are not output. To output audio
signals, connect the white and red plugs to the audio input jack of your TV.
 This connection produces higher resolution images compared with the A/V connecting cable (Type ).
A/V connecting cable

(SETTINGS) 
(supplied) (Yellow) [OUTPUT SETTINGS]
 [TV TYPE] 
(White)
[16:9]/[4:3]* (p. 93)
(Red)
Index
* Set [TV TYPE] according to your TV.
54
When connecting to your TV via a VCR
Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable.
Set the input selector on the VCR to LINE (VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, etc.).
When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack)
Connect the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable to the video input jack and connect the
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white (left channel) or red (right channel) plug to the audio input jack of your TV or VCR.
 Notes
When the A/V connecting cable is used to output images, images are output with standard definition
image quality (SD).
 Tips
 If you connect your camcorder to the TV using more than one type of cable to output images, the order
of priority of the TV input jacks is as follows:
HDMI  component  S VIDEO  video
 HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is an interface to send both video/audio signals. The
HDMI OUT jack outputs high quality images and digital audio.
Using “BRAVIA” Sync

You can operate your camcorder with the Remote Commander of your TV by connecting
your camcorder to a “BRAVIA” Sync compatible TV launched in 2008 or later with the HDMI
cable.
HDMI cable

 Connect your camcorder and a “BRAVIA” Sync compatible TV with the HDMI
cable (sold separately).

 Turn on your camcorder.
The TV input is switched automatically, and the image of your camcorder is displayed
Index
on the TV.
55

 Operate your camcorder with the Remote Commander of the TV.
You can do the following operations.
 to display (VIEW IMAGES) or (HOME) by pressing the SYNC MENU button
 to display an index screen, such as the VISUAL INDEX screen, and play back the desired movies or
photos by pressing up/down/left/right/enter buttons on the Remote Commander of your TV
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 Notes
 There may be some operations you cannot do with the Remote Commander.
 To set your camcorder, touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [CTRL FOR
HDMI]  [ON] (the default setting)    .
 Also set your TV. Refer to the instruction manual of the TV for details.
 Tips
 If you turn off the TV, your camcorder is turned off simultaneously.

Index
56
Editing
Deleting movies and
photos
2
To delete movies, touch
[ DELETE]  [ DELETE] or
[ DELETE].
You can free media space by deleting
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 To delete photos, touch [ DELETE] 
movies and photos from recording media.
[ DELETE].
Select the recording medium that contains
the movies and photos you want to delete
before starting the operation (p. 70). For
movies, select the image quality (p. 88).
3
Touch and display the mark
on the movies or photos to be
deleted.
 Notes
 You cannot restore images once they are
deleted.
 Do not remove the battery pack or the AC
Adaptor from your camcorder while deleting
the images. It may damage the recording media.
 Do not eject “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
while deleting images from “Memory Stick PRO
 Tips
Duo” media.

 Press and hold the image down on the
 You cannot delete protected movies and photos.
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch
Undo the protection of the movies and photos
to return to the previous screen.
to delete them, before you try to delete them
(p. 63).
 If the deleted movie is included in the Playlist
(p. 65), the movie added to the Playlist is
4
Touch
.
 [YES]  
deleted also from the Playlist.
 Save important movies and photos in advance
(p. 67).
To delete all movies/photos at one time
 Tips In step 2, touch [ DELETE] 
 You can select up to 100 images at one time.
[ DELETE ALL]/[ DELETE ALL]
 You can delete an image on the playback screen
from OPTION MENU. [YES]  [YES]   .
 To delete all images recorded in the recording  To delete all photos at one time, touch
media, and recover all the recordable space of [ DELETE]  [ DELETE ALL]  [YES]
the media, format the media (p. 72).  [YES]   .
 Reduced-size images which enable you to view
To delete all the movies/photos
many images at the same time on an index
screen are called “thumbnails.”
recorded on the same day at one time
 You can delete photos by selecting recording
1
Index
dates only when photos are recorded on the

Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS) internal hard disk.
 [DELETE].  In step 2, touch [ DELETE] 
[ DELETE by date]/[ DELETE
by date].
 To delete all photos on the same day at one
time, touch [ DELETE] 
[ DELETE by date].
57
 Touch / to select the recording date
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of the desired movies/photos, then touch
.
The movies/photos recorded on the
selected date are displayed on the screen.
 Tips
 Touch the image down on the LCD screen
to confirm the image. Touch to return
to the previous screen.
 Touch  [YES]   .

Index
58
Acquiring the current  When your camcorder cannot acquire the
current location information, the center marker
location information turns gray and the map shows the last location
acquired.
(HDR-XR500V/XR520V)  If you hold a certain point, the map keeps
scrolling.
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You can display the current location on a  You can also display the current location by
map. touching (HOME)  (OTHERS) 
[ YOUR LOCATION].
Set the GPS switch to ON so that your
camcorder can acquire the current location
information (p. 39).

Touch ( YOUR LOCATION) on the
recording screen.

The current location is displayed and
marked at the center of the LCD screen.
If you touch a certain point on the screen,
the map shows the area with that point at
the center.
Touch (your location) at the bottom
left of the LCD screen to move the current
location back to the center.
To close the map screen

Touch .
 Notes
The map always displays the north at the top.
 Tips
 You can change the scale using the zoom lever
Index
or zoom buttons (W: larger, T: smaller).

 Your camcorder acquires the current location
information every 10 seconds. The displays
of the center marker, etc., appear differently
according to the status of the current inquiry.
59
Capturing a photo  To continue capturing, touch
repeat steps from step 3.
, then
from a movie  To capture a photo from another movie,

touch , then repeat steps from step 2.
5
You can save a selected frame from a
recorded movie as a photo. Touch  .
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Select the recording media which contains
movies and the image quality, and the
recording media where you want to save
 Notes
photos before the operation (p. 70, 88).
 The image size is fixed depending on the image
1
Touch (HOME) 
 [PHOTO CAPTURE].
(OTHERS)
quality of the movie:
[
(HD)
2.1M] with high definition image quality
[ 0.2M] in 16:9 (wide) with standard

The [PHOTO CAPTURE] screen definition image quality (SD)
appears.  [VGA(0.3M)] in 4:3 with standard definition
2
image quality (SD)
 The recording medium where you want to save
Touch the movie to be captured. photos should have enough free space.
 The recording date and time of captured photos
The selected movie starts playback.

is the same as the recording date and time of
3
Touch at the point where
you want to capture.
the movies.
 If the movie you are capturing from has no data
code, the recording date and time of the photo
will be the date and time you captured from
The movie pauses. Play and pause the movie.
toggles as you press .
Adjust the capturing point with
more precision after you selected
the point with .
Returns to the beginning of the selected

movie
4
Index
Touch .
The captured photo is saved on the
recording media selected in [PHOTO
MEDIA SET] (p. 70).
When capturing is finished, the screen
returns to pause.
60
Dubbing/copying
 Touch the image quality of the
movies and photos movie to be dubbed.
from the internal hard [ DUB]: To dub the high
disk to “Memory Stick definition image quality (HD) movies
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[ DUB]: To dub the standard
PRO Duo” media definition image quality (SD) movies

Dubbing movies  Touch the type of dubbing.
You can dub movies recorded on the [DUB by select]: To select movies and
internal hard disk of your camcorder to dub
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media. [DUB by date]: To dub all movies of a
Insert “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media specified date
into your camcorder before the operation. [ DUB ALL]: To dub the high
definition image quality (HD) Playlist
 Notes
[ DUB ALL]: To dub the standard
 When you record a movie on “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media for the first time, create the
definition image quality (SD) Playlist
When you select the Playlist as the

image database file by touching (HOME) 
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [REPAIR IMG.DB source of dubbing, follow the on-screen
F.]  [MEMORY STICK]. instructions to dub the Playlist.
 Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet
(wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor to

prevent your camcorder from running out of  Select the movie to be dubbed.
power during dubbing. [DUB by select]: Touch the movie to be
 Tips dubbed, and mark it with . You can
 The original movie will not be deleted after select multiple movies.
dubbing.
 All included images in a Playlist will be dubbed.
 The images recorded by this camcorder and
stored onto the recording media are called
“original.”

Estimmated remaining
 Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS)
capacity of “Memory Stick
 [MOVIE DUB]. PRO Duo” media
The [MOVIE DUB] screen appears.
 Tips
Index

61
[DUB by date]: Select the recording
date of the movie to be dubbed, then  Touch the type of copying.
touch . You cannot select multiple [COPY by select]: To copy selected
dates. photos
[COPY by date]: To copy all photos of
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a specified date

 Select the photo to be copied.
[COPY by select]: Touch the photo to

be copied, and mark with . You can
 Touch  [YES]   . select multiple photos.
 Tips
 To check the dubbed movies after dubbing is
finished, select [MEMORY STICK] on [MOVIE
MEDIA SET] and play them back (p. 70).
 Tips

Copying photos  Press and hold the image down on the
screen to confirm the image. Touch to
You can copy photos from the internal hard return to the previous screen.
disk of the camcorder to “Memory Stick
[COPY by date]: Select the recording
PRO Duo” media.
date of the photo to be copied, then
Insert “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
touch . You cannot select multiple
into your camcorder before the operation.
dates.
 Notes
Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet
(wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor to
prevent your camcorder from running out of
power during copying.

 [PHOTO COPY].  Touch  [YES]  
The [PHOTO COPY] screen appears.
.
Index
 Tips
 To check the copied photos after copying
is finished, select [MEMORY STICK] on
[PHOTO MEDIA SET] and play them back
(p. 70).
62
Protecting recorded
movies and photos
4
Touch
.
 [YES]  
(Protect)
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Protect movies and photos to avoid deleting
To undo the protection of movies and
them by mistake. photos
Select the recording medium that contains
Touch the movie or photo marked with 
the movies and photos you want to protect
in step 3.
before starting the operation (p. 70). For
 disappears.
movies, select the image quality (p. 88).
To protect all the movies and photos
 Tips
 You can protect movies and photos on the
recorded on the same day at one time
playback screen from OPTION MENU. You can protect photos by selecting
1
recording dates only when photos are

recorded on the internal hard disk.
Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS)
 In step 2, touch [ PROTECT] 
 [EDIT].
[ PRT. by date]/[ PRT. by date].

 To protect all photos on the same day at
one time, touch [ PROTECT] 
To protect movies, touch [ PRT. by date].
[ PROTECT]  [ PROTECT]/
[ PROTECT].
 To protect photos, touch [ PROTECT]
 [ PROTECT].
3
Touch the movies and photos to
be protected.
 is displayed on the selected images. .
The movies/photos recorded on the
selected date are displayed on the screen.
 Tips
 Touch the image down on the LCD screen
to confirm the image. Touch to return
to the previous screen.
 Tips  Touch  [ON]   .
Index

LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch To undo the protection of movies and
to return to the previous screen. photos recorded on the same day at
 You can select up to 100 images at one one time
time.
In step  above, select the recording date
 [OFF]   .
63
Dividing a movie  Notes
 You cannot restore movies once they are
divided.
Select the recording medium which  Do not remove the battery pack or the AC
contains the movie and the image quality Adaptor from your camcorder while dividing
you want to divide before the operation the movie. It may damage the recording media.
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(p. 70, 88). Also, do not eject “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media while dividing movies on “Memory Stick
1
Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS)
 [EDIT]  [ DIVIDE].
PRO Duo” media.
 A slight difference may occur from the point
where you touch and the actual dividing
point, as your camcorder selects the dividing
2
Touch the movie to be divided.
point based on about half-second increments.
 If you divide the original movie, the movie
added to the Playlist will also be divided.
The selected movie starts playback.
3
 Tips
 You can divide an image on the playback screen
Touch at the point where from OPTION MENU.
you want to divide the movie into
scenes.

The movie pauses. Play and pause
toggles as you press .
Adjusts the dividing point with
more precision after you selected the
dividing point with .
Returns to the beginning of the

selected movie
4
Touch
.
 [YES]  
Index
64
Using the Playlist of To add all the movies recorded on the
same day at one time
movies  In step 2, touch [ ADD by date]/
[ ADD by date].
The Playlist is a list showing thumbnails of
The recording dates of movies are
the movies that you have selected.
displayed on the screen.
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The original movies are not changed even if
you edit or delete the movies added to the
Playlist.
Select the recording media and the image
quality you want to create, play, or edit a
Playlist before the operation (p. 70, 88).
of the desired movie, then touch .
Creating the Playlist
The movies recorded on the selected
date are displayed on the screen.
 Notes
High definition image quality (HD) movies and  Tips
standard definition image quality (SD) movies  Touch the image on the LCD screen to
are added to an individual Playlist. confirm the image. Touch to return to

the previous screen.

 Touch  [YES]   .
 [PLAYLIST EDIT].  Notes
 Do not remove the battery pack or the AC
Adaptor from your camcorder while adding
 Touch [ ADD] or [ ADD]. movies to the Playlist. It may damage the
recording media. Also, do not eject “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media while editing movies on
 Touch the movie to be added to “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.
 You cannot add photos to the Playlist.
the Playlist.
 You cannot create a Playlist which contains both
high definition image quality (HD) movies and
standard definition image quality (SD) movies.
 Tips
 You can add a maximum of 999 high definition
image quality (HD) movies, or 99 standard
The selected movie is marked with . definition image quality (SD) movies to the
Playlist.
 Tips  You can add a movie on the playback screen or
Index
 Press and hold the image down on the the INDEX screen by touching (OPTION).
LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch  You can copy the Playlist to a disc as it is, by
to return to the previous screen. using the supplied software.

 Touch  [YES]  
.
65
Playing the Playlist  Touch  [YES]   .
Select the recording media and the image  Tips

 Even if you erase a movie from a Playlist, the
quality you want to play a Playlist before
original movie is not erased.
the operation (p. 70, 88).
To change the order within the Playlist
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 Touch (HOME)  (VIEW  Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS) 
IMAGES)  [PLAYLIST]. [PLAYLIST EDIT].
 Touch [ MOVE]/[ MOVE].
Movies added to the Playlist appear.
 Select the movie to be moved.
The selected movie is marked with .

 Touch the movie you want to
 Tips
play back.  Touch the image on the LCD screen to

The Playlist is played back from the confirm the image. Touch to return to
selected movie to the end, then the the previous screen.
screen returns to the Playlist screen.  Touch .
 Select the destination with / .
To erase unnecessary movies from the

Playlist
 Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS) 
[PLAYLIST EDIT].
 Touch [ ERASE]/[ ERASE].
To erase all the movies from the Playlist, Destination bar
touch [ ERASE ALL]/[ ERASE  Touch  [YES]   .
ALL]  [YES]  [YES]  .
 Select the movie to be erased from the  Tips
 When you select multiple movies, the movies
list.
are moved following the order appearing in the
Playlist.
Index
The selected movie is marked with .

 Tips
66
Creating a disc with a
 Touch [ USB CONNECT] when
DVD writer, recorder movies are recorded on the
internal hard disk, or [ USB
Creating a high definition image CONNECT] when movies are
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quality (HD) disc with a DVD writer, recorded on “Memory Stick PRO
etc. (USB cable connection) Duo” media on the camcorder
screen.
You can save high definition image quality
(HD) movies on a disc by connecting
your camcorder to disc creation devices,  Record movies on the connected
such as a Sony DVD writer, with the USB device.
cable. Refer also to the instruction manuals  For details, refer to the instruction
supplied with the devices to be connected. manuals supplied with the device to be
The method used to create a disc by connected.
connecting your camcorder to a Sony DVD
writer with the USB cable is described here.  After the operation is completed,
 Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
touch [END]  [YES] on the

socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this
operation (p. 19). camcorder screen.
 Sony DVD writer may not be available in some
countries/regions.

 Disconnect the USB cable.

 Turn on your camcorder, and
connect a DVD writer, etc. to the
 Notes
 (USB) jack of your camcorder The high definition image quality (HD) disc
with the USB cable (supplied). that you created should not be used in DVD
players/recorders. Because DVD players/
recorders are not compatible with the AVCHD
format, DVD players/recorders may fail to eject
the disc.
Creating a standard definition

image quality (SD) disc with a
The [USB SELECT] screen appears on recorder, etc. (A/V connecting cable
the camcorder screen. connection)
If the [USB SELECT] screen does
Index

not appear, touch (HOME)  You can dub images played back on your
(OTHERS)  [USB CONNECT]. camcorder on a disc or video cassette,
by connecting your camcorder to a disc
recorder, a Sony DVD writer, etc. with
the A/V connecting cable. Connect the
device in either way of  or . Refer
also to the instruction manuals supplied
67
with the devices to be connected. Select the
recording medium that contains movies A/V Remote Connector
and the image quality you want to dub
before starting the operation (p. 70, 74).
 Sony DVD writer may not be available in some
countries/regions.
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 Notes
 Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet
(wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for
this operation (p. 19). Input
 High definition image quality (HD) movies
S VIDEO
will be dubbed with standard definition image
quality (SD).
VIDEO
 A/V connecting cable (supplied)
Connect the A/V connecting cable to the (Yellow)
input jack of another device.
(White)
 A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO
(sold separately) AUDIO
When connecting to another device

via the S VIDEO jack, by using an A/V (Red)
connecting cable with an S VIDEO cable (Yellow)
(sold separately), higher quality images can
be produced than with an A/V connecting
cable. Connect the white and red plug
(left/right audio) and the S VIDEO plug Signal flow
(S VIDEO channel) of the A/V connecting
cable with an S VIDEO cable. If you
connect the S VIDEO plug only, you will
hear no sound. The yellow plug (video)  Insert the recording media in the
connection is not necessary. recording device.
 If your recording device has an input
selector, set it to the input mode.

 Connect your camcorder to the
recording device (a disc recorder,
etc.) with the A/V connecting
cable  (supplied) or an A/V
connecting cable with S VIDEO
Index
 (sold separately).
 Connect your camcorder to the input jacks
of the recording device.
68

 Start playback on your
Checking the battery
camcorder, and record it on the information
recording device.
You can check the estimated remaining
 Refer to the instruction manuals supplied
capacity of the battery.
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with your recording device for details.

Touch (HOME)  (OTHERS) 
 When dubbing is finished, stop
[BATTERY INFO].
the recording device, and then
your camcorder. The remaining battery capacity is shown.
 Notes
 Since dubbing is performed via analog data
transfer, the image quality may deteriorate.
 You cannot dub images to recorders connected
with an HDMI cable.
 To hide the screen indicators (such as a
To close the battery information screen

counter, etc.) on the screen of the monitor
device connected, touch (HOME)  Touch .
(SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS]
 [DISP OUTPUT]  [LCD PANEL] (the
default setting)    .
 To record the date/time, coordinates (HDR-
XR500V/XR520V), or camera settings data,
touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS) 
[VIEW IMAGES SET]  [DATA CODE]
 a desired setting   
. In addition, touch (HOME) 
(SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS] 
[DISP OUTPUT]  [V.OUT/PANEL] 
  .
 When the screen size of display devices
(TV, etc.) is 4:3, touch (HOME) 
(SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS] 
[TV TYPE]  [4:3]    .
 When you connect a monaural device, connect
the yellow plug of the A/V connecting cable
to the video input jack, and the white (left
Index
channel) or the red (right channel) plug to the

audio input jack on the device.
69
Utilizing recording media
Changing the Selecting the recording media for
photos
recording medium
You can select the internal hard disk or
 Touch (HOME) 
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [PHOTO
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“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media as the
recording, playback, or editing medium on MEDIA SET].
your camcorder. Select the medium to be The [PHOTO MEDIA SET] screen
used for movies and photos separately. In appears.
the default setting, both movies and photos
are recorded on the internal hard disk.
 Touch the desired recording
medium.
Hard disk

Movies Photos  Touch [YES]  .
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media The recording medium is changed.
 You can do recording, playback, and editing

operations on the selected medium.
 See page 120 for the recordable time of movies. To check the recording media settings
 See page 121 for the number of recordable Light up the (Movie) lamp to check the
photos.
recording medium used for movies, or the
(Photo) lamp for photos. The media icon
Selecting the recording media for is displayed at the top right corner of the
movies screen.
 Touch (HOME) 
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [MOVIE
MEDIA SET]. : Internal hard disk
: “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
The [MOVIE MEDIA SET] screen
appears.
Inserting “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media
 Touch the desired medium.
 Set the recording medium to [MEMORY
STICK] to record movies and/or photos on
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 70).
 Touch [YES]  .
Index
The recording medium is changed. Types of “Memory Stick” media you can
use with your camcorder
 For recording movies, it is recommended that
you use “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media of 1
GB or larger marked with:
 (“Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media)*
70
 (“Memory Stick
PRO-HG Duo” media)
* Marked with Mark2 or not, either can be
used.
 See page 119 for the recordable time of
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.
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“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media/“Memory Stick PRO-HG
Duo” media Access lamp
(This size can be used with your camcorder.) (“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media)
The [Create a new Image Database

File.] screen appears, if you insert new
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media when
“Memory Stick” media the (Movie) lamp is lit.
(You cannot use it in your camcorder.)

 Touch [YES].
 To record only photos on “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media touch [NO].
 You cannot use any type of memory card other
than those mentioned above.

 “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media can be
 Notes
used only with “Memory Stick PRO” media
If [Failed to create a new Image Database File.
compatible equipment.
It may be possible that there is not enough free
 Do not attach a label or the like on “Memory
space.] is displayed in step 2, format “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media or “Memory Stick Duo”
Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 72).
media adaptor.
 Insert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media into To eject “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
the “Memory Stick Duo” media adaptor when
using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media with
Open the “Memory Stick Duo” media cover
“Memory Stick” media compatible equipment. and lightly push “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media in once.
 Do not open the “Memory Stick Duo” media
 Open the “Memory Stick Duo” cover during recording.
media cover, and insert the  When inserting or ejecting “Memory Stick PRO
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media Duo” media, be careful so that “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media do not pop out and drop.
into the “Memory Stick Duo”
media slot until it clicks.
 Confirm the direction of “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media. If you forcibly insert
Index
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media in the

wrong direction, “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media, “Memory Stick Duo” media
slot, or image data may be damaged.
 Close the “Memory Stick Duo” media
cover after inserting “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media.
71
Checking the media Deleting all movies
information and photos (Formatting)
You can check the remaining recordable Formatting deletes all the movies and
time for each recording mode of the photos to recover recordable free space.
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recording media selected on [MOVIE
 Notes
MEDIA SET] (p. 70), and the approximate  Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall
free and used media space of the recording socket) using AC Adaptor supplied for this
media. operation (p. 19).
 To avoid the loss of important images, you
 Notes
should save them (p. 67, see Operating Guide
During Easy Handycam operation, you cannot
too) before formatting the recording media.
check the media information. Cancel Easy
 Protected movies and photos are also deleted.
Handycam operation.

Touch (HOME)  (MANAGE
1
Touch (HOME) 
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [MEDIA
MEDIA)  [MEDIA INFO].
FORMAT].
The remaining recordable time for each

recording mode is displayed.
Touch the recording media to be
 Tips
 You can check the recordable free space, etc. by
formatted ([HDD] or [MEMORY
touching at the lower right on the screen. STICK]).
To turn off the display

Touch .
3
Touch [YES]  [YES]  .
 Notes
 The calculation for recording media space is 1  Notes
MB = 1,048,576 bytes. The fractions less than While [Executing…] is displayed, do not close
MB are discarded when the recording media the LCD screen, operate the buttons on the
space is displayed. The displayed size of the camcorder, disconnect the AC Adaptor, or eject
whole hard disk space will be slightly smaller “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media from your
than the size shown below despite displaying camcorder. (The ACCESS/access lamp is lit or
both free and used hard disk space. flashing while formatting the medium.)
 HDR-XR500/XR500V: 120 000 MB
 HDR-XR520/XR520V: 240 000 MB
 Since there is a management file area, the used
Index
space is not displayed as 0 MB even if you

perform [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 72).
 Tips
 Only the information of the medium selected
on [MOVIE MEDIA SET] (p. 70) is displayed.
Change the medium setting if necessary.
72
Preventing data on the
internal hard disk from
4
Touch [EMPTY].
The [ EMPTY] screen appears.
being recovered
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[ EMPTY] allows you to write
unintelligible data onto the internal hard
disk of the camcorder. In this way, it may
become more difficult to recover any
original data. When you dispose of or
transfer the camcorder, it is recommended 5
Touch [YES]  [YES]  .
that you perform [ EMPTY].
 Notes
 If you perform [ EMPTY], all the images are  Notes
deleted. To avoid the loss of important images,  The actual performing time for [ EMPTY] is
they should be saved (p. 67, see Operating as follows;
 HDR-XR500/XR500V: about 120 minutes
Guide too) before performing [ EMPTY].
 HDR-XR520/XR520V: about 240 minutes
 You cannot perform [ EMPTY] unless you
 If you stop performing [ EMPTY] while
connect the AC Adaptor to the wall outlet (wall

socket). [Executing…] appears, be sure to complete the
 Disconnect all cables except the AC Adaptor.
operation by performing [MEDIA FORMAT]
Do not disconnect the AC Adaptor during the or [ EMPTY] when you use the camcorder
operation. next time.
 While performing [ EMPTY], do not apply
any vibrations or shocks to your camcorder.
1
Connect the AC Adaptor to the
DC IN jack on the camcorder and
the wall outlet (wall socket).
2
Open the LCD screen to turn on
your camcorder.
3
Touch (HOME) 
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [MEDIA
FORMAT]  [HDD].
Index
The [ FORMAT] screen appears.
73
Customizing your camcorder
MOVIE SETTINGS (Items for recording movies)
The default settings are marked with .
/ SET
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You can select image quality for recording, playback, or editing from high definition image
quality (HD) or standard definition image quality (SD).
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [ / SET]  a desired
setting  [YES] 
 HD QUALITY Records, plays, or edits high definition image quality (HD) movies.
SD QUALITY Records, plays, or edits standard definition image quality (SD) movies.
 Tips
 You can record, play, or edit movies in the selected image quality only. To record, play, or edit movies in
another image quality, change this setting.

REC MODE (Recording mode)
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [REC MODE]  a desired setting
  
You can select a recording mode to record high definition image quality (HD) movies
from 4 levels. When recording fast moving subject, a high image quality, such as [FH], is
recommended.
HD FH ( ) Records in the highest quality mode (AVC HD 16M (FH))*1.
HD HQ ( ) Records in high quality mode (AVC HD 9M (HQ))*2.
 HD SP ( ) Records in standard quality mode (AVC HD 7M (SP))*2.
HD LP ( ) Increases the recording time (Long Play) (AVC HD 5M (LP))*2.
* Movies are recorded with AVCHD 1920  1080/60i format.
1
*2 Movies are recorded with AVCHD 1440  1080/60i format.
You can select a recording mode to record standard definition image quality (SD)*3 movies
Index
from 3 levels.
SD HQ ( ) Records in high quality mode (SD 9M (HQ)).
 SD SP ( ) Records in standard quality mode (SD 6M (SP)).
SD LP ( ) Increases the recording time (Long Play) (SD 3M (LP)).
*3 Movies are recorded with MPEG2 format.
74
 Notes
If you record in the LP mode, the quality of movies may be degraded, or scenes with quick movements
may appear with block noise when you play back the image.
 Tips
 See page 119 for the expected recording time of each recording mode.
 You can select the [REC MODE] for each recording media separately.
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 Figures such as 16M in the table show the average bit rate. M stands for Mbps.
AUDIO MODE
You can change the recording sound format.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [AUDIO MODE]  a desired
setting   
5.1ch SURROUND
 Records sound in 5.1ch surround.
( )
2ch STEREO
Records sound in 2ch stereo.
( )

AE SHIFT
You can adjust the exposure manually.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [AE SHIFT]  [ON] 
(darker)/ (brighter)   
 OFF Adjusts the exposure automatically.

ON ( and the Adjusts the exposure manually.
adjustment value)
 Tips
 You can adjust the automatic exposure level to brighter or darker when [EXPOSURE] is set to [AUTO].
 Touch if the subject is white or the backlight is bright, or touch if the subject is black or the light
is dim.
 You can also adjust the setting manually using the MANUAL dial (p. 38).
WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift)

Index
You can adjust the white balance manually.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [WB SHIFT]  [ON] 
(bluish)/ (reddish)   
75
 OFF Adjusts the white balance automatically.
ON ( and the Adjusts the white balance manually.
adjustment value)
 Tips
 When the white balance is set to a lower value, images appear bluish, and when set to a higher value,
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images appear reddish.
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT
When using the NightShot (p. 35) function, you can record clearer images by activating
[NIGHTSHOT LIGHT], which emits infrared light (invisible).
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [NIGHTSHOT LIGHT]  a
desired setting   
 ON Emits infrared light.

OFF Does not emit infrared light.

 Notes
 Do not cover the infrared port (p. 7) with your fingers or other objects.
 The maximum shooting distance using [NIGHTSHOT LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).
WIDE SELECT
When recording standard definition image quality (SD) movies, you can select the horizontal
to vertical ratio according to the TV connected. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied
with your TV.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [WIDE SELECT]  a desired
setting   
 16:9 WIDE Records movies to the full screen on a 16:9 (wide) TV screen.
4:3 ( ) Records movies to the full screen on a 4:3 TV screen.

Index
 Notes
Set [TV TYPE] correctly according to the TV connected for playback (p. 93).
DIGITAL ZOOM
You can select the maximum zoom level in case you want to zoom to a level greater than 12 ×
optical zoom during recording. Note that the image quality decreases when you use the digital
zoom.
76
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [DIGITAL ZOOM]  a desired
setting   
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The right side of the bar shows the digital zooming factor. The
zooming zone appears when you select the zooming level.
 OFF Up to 12 × zoom is performed optically.

Up to 12 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 24 × zoom is
24 ×
performed digitally.
Up to 12 × zoom is performed optically, and after that, up to 150 × zoom is
150 ×
performed digitally.
STEADYSHOT
You can compensate for camera shake.

Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (sold separately), then the image
becomes natural.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [ STEADYSHOT]  a desired
setting   
 ACTIVE Provides a more powerful SteadyShot effect.

STANDARD Provides the SteadyShot effect under relatively stable recording conditions.
OFF ( ) The SteadyShot function is not used.

X.V.COLOR
You can capture wider range of colors. Various colors such as the brilliant color of flowers and
turquoise blue of the sea can be more faithfully reproduced.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [X.V.COLOR]  a desired setting
Index
  
 OFF Records in ordinary color range.

ON ( ) Records in x.v.Color.
 Notes
 Set [X.V.COLOR] to [ON] when the recorded movie will be played back on an x.v.Color-compliant TV.
Refer to the instruction manuals of the TV.
77
 If the movie recorded with this function [ON] is played back on a non-x.v.Color-compliant TV, the color
may not be reproduced correctly.
 [X.V.COLOR] cannot be set to [ON]:
 When recording standard definition image quality (SD) movies
 While recording a movie.
 The LCD screen is compatible with x.v.Color.
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GUIDEFRAME
You can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical.
The frame is not recorded. Press DISP to make the frame disappear.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [GUIDEFRAME]  a desired
setting   
 OFF Does not display the guide frame.
ON Displays the guide frame.

 Tips
 Positioning the subject at the cross point of the guide frame makes a balanced composition.
 The outer frame of [GUIDEFRAME] shows the display area of a TV which is not compatible with full
pixel display.
REMAINING SET
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [ REMAINING SET]  a
 ON Always displays the remaining recording media indicator.

Displays the remaining recording time of movies for about 8 seconds in
situations such as those described below.
 When your camcorder recognizes the remaining recording media capacity
AUTO while the (Movie) lamp lights up
Index
 When you press DISP to switch the indicator from off to on while the
(Movie) lamp lights up
 When you select the movie recording mode on the HOME MENU
 Notes
When the remaining recordable time for movies is less than 5 minutes, the indicator stays on the screen.
78
FLASH MODE
You can select the flash setting when you record photos using the built-in flash, or an external
flash (sold separately) that is compatible with your camcorder.
Steps
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(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [FLASH MODE]  a desired
setting   
 AUTO Automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light.

ON ( ) Always uses the flash regardless of the ambient brightness.
OFF ( ) Records without flash.
 Notes
 The recommended distance to the subject when using the built-in flash is about 0.3 to 2.5 m (1 to 8 feet).
 Remove any dust from the surface of the flash before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if heat
discoloration or dust obscures the lamp.
 You cannot set this item when a lens filter or accessory lens is attached to your camcorder.
 The /CHG (charge) lamp (p. 8) flickers while charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge
is complete.

 If you use the flash in bright places such as when shooting a backlit subject, the flash may not be effective.
FLASH LEVEL
You can set this function when you record photos using the built-in flash, or an external flash
(sold separately) that is compatible with your camcorder.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [FLASH LEVEL]  a desired
setting   
HIGH ( ) Makes the flash level higher.

 NORMAL ( )
LOW ( ) Makes the flash level lower.
REDEYE REDUC (Redeye reduction)

Index
When you set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then set [FLASH MODE] to [AUTO] or [ON],
appears. You can prevent redeye by activating the pre-flash before the flash flashes.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [REDEYE REDUC]  a desired
setting   
79
 OFF Does not prevent redeye.
ON ( ) Prevents redeye.
 Notes
 The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other
conditions.
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 The redeye function does not work with automatic recording by [SMILE SHUTTER].
DIAL SETTING
You can select an item you want to set to the MANUAL dial. For details, see page 38.
CONVERSION LENS
When using a conversion lens (sold separately), use this function to record using the optimum
compensation for camera shake and focus for each lens.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [CONVERSION LENS]  a

WIDE CONVERSION
Select this when you use a wide-conversion lens.
( )
TELE CONVERSION
Select this when you use a tele-conversion lens.
( )
 OFF Select this when you do not use a conversion lens.
AUTO BACK LIGHT (Auto Backlight Correction)

Your camcorder adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [MOVIE SETTINGS]  [AUTO BACK LIGHT]  a desired
setting   
 ON Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.

OFF Does not adjust the exposure for backlit subjects.
Index
80
PHOTO SETTINGS (Items for recording photos)
IMAGE SIZE
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You can select a photo size to be shot.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [ IMAGE SIZE]  a desired
setting   
 12.0M ( ) Records photos in the highest quality (4,000 × 3,000).

9.0M ( ) Records photos in the high quality in the 16:9 (wide) ratio (4,000 × 2,250).
6.2M ( ) Records photos clearly (2,880 × 2,160).
1.9M ( ) Allows you to record more photos in relatively clear quality (1,600 × 1,200).
VGA(0.3M) ( ) Allows the maximum number of photos to be recorded (640 × 480).
 Notes

 The selected image size is effective when the (Photo) lamp is lit.
 See page 121 for the number of recordable photos.
FILE NO. (File number)

You can select the way to assign file number of photos.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [FILE NO.]  a desired setting
  
Assigns file numbers of photos in sequence.

 The file number becomes larger each time you record a photo.
 SERIES
 Even if “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are replaced with another one,
the file number is assigned in sequence.
Assigns file numbers in sequence, following the largest file number existing
on the current recording medium.
RESET
 When “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are replaced with another one, the
file number is assigned for each one of “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.
Index
AE SHIFT
You can adjust the exposure manually.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [AE SHIFT]  [ON] 
(darker)/ (brighter)   
81
 OFF Adjusts the exposure automatically.
ON ( and the Adjusts the exposure manually.
adjustment value)
 Tips
 You can adjust the automatic exposure level to brighter or darker when [EXPOSURE] is set to [AUTO].
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 Touch if the subject is white or the backlight is bright, or touch if the subject is black or the light
is dim.
WB SHIFT (White Balance Shift)

You can adjust the white balance manually.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [WB SHIFT]  [ON] 
(bluish)/ (reddish)   
 OFF Adjusts the white balance automatically.

ON ( and the

Adjusts the white balance manually.
adjustment value)
 Tips
 When the white balance is set to a lower value, images appear bluish, and when set to a higher value,
images appear reddish.
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT
When using the NightShot (p. 35) function, you can record clearer images by activating
[NIGHTSHOT LIGHT], which emits infrared light (invisible).
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [NIGHTSHOT LIGHT]  a
 ON Emits infrared light.

OFF Does not emit infrared light.
 Notes
Index
 Do not cover the infrared port (p. 7) with your fingers or other objects.
 The maximum shooting distance using [NIGHTSHOT LIGHT] is about 3 m (10 feet).
82
STEADYSHOT
You can compensate for camera shake.
Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [OFF] ( ) when using a tripod (sold separately), then the image
becomes natural.
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Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [ STEADYSHOT]  a desired
setting   
 ON The SteadyShot function is used.

OFF ( ) The SteadyShot function is not used.
GUIDEFRAME
You can display the frame and check that the subject is horizontal or vertical.
The frame is not recorded. Press DISP to make the frame disappear.
Steps

(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [GUIDEFRAME]  a desired
setting   
 OFF Does not display the guide frame.
ON Displays the guide frame.
 Tips
 Positioning the subject at the cross point of the guide frame makes a balanced composition.
FLASH MODE
You can select the flash setting when you record photos using the built-in flash, or an external
flash (sold separately) that is compatible with your camcorder.
Steps
Index
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [FLASH MODE]  a desired

setting   
 AUTO Automatically flashes when there is insufficient ambient light.

ON ( ) Always uses the flash regardless of the ambient brightness.
OFF ( ) Records without flash.
83
 Notes
 The recommended distance to the subject when using the built-in flash is about 0.3 to 2.5 m (1 to 8 feet).
 Remove any dust from the surface of the flash before using it. Flash effect may be impaired if heat
discoloration or dust obscures the lamp.
 You cannot set this item when a filter or a conversion lens is attached to your camcorder.
 The /CHG (charge) lamp (p. 8) flickers while charging the flash, and remains lit when the battery charge
Table of Contents
is complete.
 If you use the flash in bright places such as when shooting a backlit subject, the flash may not be effective.
FLASH LEVEL
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [FLASH LEVEL]  a desired
setting   
HIGH ( ) Makes the flash level higher.

 NORMAL ( )

LOW ( ) Makes the flash level lower.
REDEYE REDUC (Redeye reduction)

When you set [REDEYE REDUC] to [ON], then set [FLASH MODE] to [AUTO] or [ON],
appears. You can prevent redeye by activating the pre-flash before the flash flashes.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [REDEYE REDUC]  a desired
setting   
 OFF Does not prevent redeye.

ON ( ) Prevents redeye.
 Notes
 The redeye reduction may not produce the desired effect due to individual differences and other
conditions.
 The redeye function does not work with automatic recording using [SMILE SHUTTER].
Index
DIAL SETTING
You can select an item you want to set to the MANUAL dial. For details, see page 38.
84
CONVERSION LENS
When using a conversion lens (sold separately), use this function to record using the optimum
compensation for camera shake and focus for each lens.
Steps
Table of Contents
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [CONVERSION LENS]  a
WIDE CONVERSION
Select this when you use a wide-conversion lens.
( )
TELE CONVERSION
Select this when you use a tele-conversion lens.
( )
 OFF Select this when you do not use a conversion lens.
AUTO BACK LIGHT (Auto Backlight Correction)

Your camcorder adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.
Steps

(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [PHOTO SETTINGS]  [AUTO BACK LIGHT]  a
 ON Adjusts the exposure for backlit subjects automatically.

OFF Does not adjust the exposure for backlit subjects.
Index
85
FACE FUNC. SET (Items to set face function)
FACE DET. SETTING
Table of Contents
You can adjust the settings for the FACE DETECTION function.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [FACE FUNC. SET]  [FACE DET. SETTING]  [FACE
DETECTION]/[FRAME SETTING]  a desired setting    
FACE DETECTION
Detects the faces of your subjects and adjusts the focus/color/exposure automatically. Also,
it adjusts the image quality of face parts more finely, in the case of the high definition image
quality (HD) movies.
 ON ( ) Detects faces.
OFF Does not detect faces.

 Notes
 Faces may not be detected depending on recording conditions, subject conditions, and the setting of your
camcorder.
 [FACE DETECTION] may not function properly depending on recording conditions. Set [FACE
DETECTION] to [OFF] in this case.
 Tips
 The detected faces are recorded in Face Index, however, some faces may not be. Also, there is a limit to
the number of faces that can be recorded in Face Index. To play back from the Face Index, see page 46.
FRAME SETTING
Sets whether to display the detection frame or not when a face is detected by [FACE
DETECTION] or [DETECTION SET].
Orange frame: A face targeted for possible smile detection shot.
White frame: Detects faces.

Index
DETECTION SET
FACE DETECTION
 ON Displays the detection frame.
OFF Does not display the detection frame.
 Notes
The detection frame does not appear while using mirror mode (p. 36).
86
SMILE SHUTTER
You can adjust the settings for the SMILE SHUTTER function.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [FACE FUNC. SET]  [SMILE SHUTTER]  [DETECTION
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SET]/[SMILE SENSITIVITY]/[SMILE PRIORITY]/[FRAME SETTING]  a desired setting
   
DETECTION SET
The shutter is released when the camcorder detects a smile.
Only during movie recording, the shutter is released automatically, when the
 DUAL CAPTURE ( )
camcorder detects a smile.
The shutter is released when the camcorder detects a smile whenever the
ALWAYS ON ( )
camcorder is in recording mode.
OFF Smiles are not detected, so photos are not recorded automatically.
 Notes
 Smiles may not be detected depending on recording conditions, subject conditions, and the setting of
your camcorder.

 When [DUAL CAPTURE] is selected, appears on the screen in movie recording standby, and
changes into when movie recording starts.
 Tips
 If a smile is not detected, set the [SMILE SENSITIVITY] (p. 87).
 You can select the subject that has priority for smile detection with [SMILE PRIORITY] (p. 87).
SMILE SENSITIVITY
Sets the smile detection sensitivity using the SMILE SHUTTER function.
HIGH Detects even a slight smile.
 MEDIUM Detects a normal smile.
LOW Detects a big smile.
SMILE PRIORITY
Selects the priority subject for the SMILE SHUTTER function.
 AUTO Detects and shoots smiling faces automatically.
CHILD PRIORITY Detects and shoots with priority on a child’s face.
ADULT PRIORITY Detects and shoots with priority on an adult’s face.
Index
FRAME SETTING
See page 86.
87
VIEW IMAGES SET (Items to customize the display)
/ SET
Table of Contents
You can select image quality for recording, playback, or editing from high definition image
quality (HD) or standard definition image quality (SD).
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [VIEW IMAGES SET]  [ / SET]  a desired
setting  [YES] 
 HD QUALITY Records, plays, or edits high definition image quality (HD) movies.
SD QUALITY Records, plays, or edits standard definition image quality (SD) movies.
 Tips
 You can record, play, or edit movies in the selected image quality only. To record, play, or edit movies in
another image quality, change this setting.

DATA CODE
During playback, your camcorder displays the information (data code) recorded automatically
at the time of recording.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [VIEW IMAGES SET]  [DATA CODE]  a desired
setting   
HDR-XR500/XR520
 OFF Data code is not displayed.
DATE/TIME Displays the date and time.
CAMERA DATA Displays camera setting data.
DATE/TIME
Index
 Date
 Time
88
CAMERA DATA
Movie Photo
Table of Contents
 SteadyShot off
 Brightness
 White balance
 Gain
 Shutter speed
 Aperture value
 Exposure
 Tips
 The data code is displayed on the TV screen if you connect your camcorder to a TV.

 Depending on the recording media condition, bars [--:--:--] appear.
HDR-XR500V/XR520V
 OFF Data code is not displayed.
DATE/TIME Displays the date and time.
CAMERA DATA Displays camera setting data.
COORDINATES Displays coordinates.
DATE/TIME
 Date
 Time
Index
89
CAMERA DATA
Movie Photo
Table of Contents
 SteadyShot off
 Brightness
 White balance
 Gain
 Shutter speed
 Aperture value
 Exposure
COORDINATES

 Latitude
 Longitude
 Tips
 appears for a photo recorded using a flash.
 The data code is displayed on the TV screen if you connect your camcorder to a TV.
 The indicator toggles through the following sequences as you press DATA CODE on the Wireless Remote
Commander: [DATE/TIME]  [CAMERA DATA]  [COORDINATES]  [OFF] (no indication).
 Depending on the recording media condition, bars [--:--:--] appear. Index
90
SOUND/DISP SET (Items to adjust the sound and the screen)
VOLUME
Table of Contents
You can adjust the volume of playback sound.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [SOUND/DISP SET]  [VOLUME]  (quieter)/
(louder)   
BEEP
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [SOUND/DISP SET]  [BEEP]  a desired setting 
 
 ON A melody sounds when you start/stop recording, or operate the touch panel.

OFF Cancels the melody.
LCD BRIGHT
You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [SOUND/DISP SET]  [LCD BRIGHT]  (darker)/
(brighter)   
 Tips
 This adjustment does not affect the recorded images in any way.
LCD BL LEVEL (LCD backlight level)

You can adjust the brightness of the LCD screen’s backlight.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [SOUND/DISP SET]  [LCD BL LEVEL]  a desired
Index
setting   
 NORMAL Standard brightness.

BRIGHT Brightens the LCD screen.
 Notes
When you connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor,
[BRIGHT] is automatically selected for the setting.
91
 When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording.
 If you open the LCD panel 180 degrees to face the screen outside and close the LCD panel to the
camcorder body, the setting becomes [NORMAL] automatically.
 Tips
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LCD COLOR
You can adjust the color of the LCD screen.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [SOUND/DISP SET]  [LCD COLOR]  (lower
intensity)/ (higher intensity)   
 Tips

Index
92
OUTPUT SETTINGS (Items for when connected to a TV)
TV TYPE
Table of Contents
You need to convert the signal depending on the TV connected when playing back movies
and photos. The recorded movies and photos are played back as following illustrations.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS]  [TV TYPE]  a desired setting
  
Select this to view your movies and photos on a 16:9 (wide) TV. The
recorded movies and photos are played back as shown below.
Movies recorded in 16:9 (wide) mode Movies recorded in 4:3 mode
 16:9

Select this to view your movies and photos on a 4:3 standard TV. The
recorded movies and photos are played back as shown below.
Movies recorded in 16:9 (wide) mode Movies recorded in 4:3 mode
4:3
 Notes
 Horizontal to vertical ratio of high definition image quality (HD) movies is 16:9.
 When you connect your camcorder to a TV compatible with the ID-1/ID-2 system, set [TV TYPE] to
[16:9]. The TV switches to full mode automatically. Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with
your TV.
Index
93
DISP OUTPUT (Display output)
You can set where the screen displays are to be output.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS]  [DISP OUTPUT]  a desired
Table of Contents
setting   
 LCD PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on the LCD screen.
V-OUT/PANEL Shows displays such as the time code on LCD screen, and on the TV screen.
COMPONENT
Select [COMPONENT] when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input
jack.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS]  [COMPONENT]  a desired
setting   

Select this when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component
480i
input jack.
Select this when connecting your camcorder to a TV that has the component
 1080i/480i
input jack and is capable of displaying the 1080i signal.
HDMI RESOLUTION
Select the output image resolution when connecting your camcorder to a TV with an HDMI
cable.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [OUTPUT SETTINGS]  [HDMI RESOLUTION]  [HD
CONTENTS]/[SD CONTENTS]  a desired setting    
HD CONTENTS
Set the output image resolution recorded with high definition image quality (HD).
 AUTO Normal setting (outputs the signal according to the TV automatically).
1080i Outputs the 1080i signal.
Index
720p Outputs the 720p signal.

94
SD CONTENTS
Set the output image resolution recorded with standard definition image quality (SD).
 AUTO Normal setting (outputs the signal according to the TV automatically).
480i Outputs the 480i signal.
Table of Contents
Index
95
CLOCK/ LANG (Items to set clock and language)
CLOCK SET
Table of Contents
See page 21.
AREA SET
You can adjust a time difference without stopping the clock. Set your local area when using
your camcorder in other time zones. Refer to the world time difference on page 123.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG]  [AREA SET]  set your local area
using /   
AUTO CLOCK ADJ (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)

Your camcorder will maintain the correct clock time by acquiring the time from GPS.
Set the GPS switch to ON in advance.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG]  [AUTO CLOCK ADJ]  a desired
setting   
 ON Adjusts the clock automatically.

OFF Does not adjust the clock automatically.
 Notes
 You must set the date and time on your camcorder before using your camcorder (p. 21).
 There may be discrepancies of a few seconds even if [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] is activated.
 The clock is adjusted automatically by [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] when you turn off your camcorder if the
camcorder is receiving a GPS signal while it is being used. The clock is not adjusted until the camcorder
is turned off. Also, the clock is not adjusted unless the camcorder is receiving a GPS signal, even if the
GPS switch is set to ON.
AUTO AREA ADJ (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)

Index
Your camcorder will compensate for a time differences with the current area automatically
when it detects a time difference, by acquiring the current location information from GPS.
Set the GPS switch to ON in advance.
96
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG]  [AUTO AREA ADJ]  a desired
setting   
 ON Compensates for the time difference with the current area automatically.
Does not compensates for the time difference with the current area
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OFF
automatically.
 Notes
You must set date and time on your camcorder before using your camcorder (p. 21).
DST SET/SUMMERTIME
You can change this setting without stopping the clock. Set to [ON] to move the time forward
1 hour.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG]  [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME]  a

 OFF Does not set the summertime.
ON Sets the summertime.
LANGUAGE SET
You can select the language to be used on the LCD screen.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG]  [ LANGUAGE SET]  a desired
setting   
 Tips
 Your camcorder offers [ENG[SIMP]] (simplified English) for when you cannot find your native tongue
among the options. Index
97
GENERAL SET (Other setup items)
DEMO MODE
Table of Contents
When your camcorder is connected to a wall outlet (wall socket), a demonstration movie
appear about 10 minutes after you turn on the (Movie) lamp by pressing MODE.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [DEMO MODE]  a desired setting

 ON The demonstration appears.

OFF The demonstration does not appear.
 Notes
 You can find the demonstration movie on the VISUAL INDEX screen in the default setting. The
demonstration movie will not be restored once it is deleted.
 Meanwhile, a movie you have recorded will be registered as the demonstration movie if the movie

satisfies the following conditions.
 The movie is protected
 The movie is the first one displayed on the VISUAL INDEX screen
 The movie is recorded on the internal hard disk
 The movie is recorded with high definition image quality (HD)
 Tips
 When you set this item to [ON] and touch , the demonstration starts playing.
 The demonstration will be suspended:
 When you press START/STOP or PHOTO
 When you touch the screen during the demonstration (The demonstration starts again after about 10
minutes)
 When you turn on the (Photo) lamp
 When you press (HOME) or (VIEW IMAGES)
REC LAMP (Recording lamp)

You can make the camera recording lamp on the front of your camcorder not to turn on.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [REC LAMP]  a desired setting 
Index
 
 ON The camera recording lamp lights up.

OFF The camera recording lamp does not light up.
98
CALIBRATION
See page 131.
A.SHUT OFF (Auto shut off )
Table of Contents
You can set your camcorder to turn off automatically when you do not operate your
camcorder for more than about 5 minutes.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [A.SHUT OFF]  a desired setting 
 
 5min The camcorder turns off automatically.

NEVER The camcorder does not turn off automatically.
 Notes
When you connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall socket), [A.SHUT OFF] is automatically set to
[NEVER].

REMOTE CTRL (Remote control)
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [REMOTE CTRL]  a desired setting
  
 ON Select this when you use the supplied Wireless Remote Commander (p. 9).
OFF Select this when you do not use supplied Wireless Remote Commander.
 Tips
 Select [OFF] when you want to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another
remote control unit.
DROP SENSOR
Your camcorder detects that it is dropping, and protects the internal hard disk.
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [DROP SENSOR]  a desired setting
  
Index
Activates the drop sensor. When it is detected that the camcorder is

 ON dropping, you may not be able to record or play back images correctly, to
protect the internal hard disk. When dropping is detected, appears.
OFF ( ) Deactivates the drop sensor.
99
 Notes
 Set the drop sensor to [ON] when you use the camcorder. Otherwise, if you drop the camcorder, you may
damage the internal hard disk.
 In a non-gravity situation, the drop sensor activates. When you record images during an activity such as
roller-coasting or skydiving, you can set [DROP SENSOR] to [OFF] so as not to activate the drop sensor.
Table of Contents
CTRL FOR HDMI (Control for HDMI)
When connecting your camcorder to a “BRAVIA” Sync compatible TV with the HDMI cable
(sold separately), you can play back movies on your camcorder by aiming the TV’s Remote
Commander at the TV (p. 55).
Steps
(HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]  [CTRL FOR HDMI]  a desired
setting   
 ON Operates your camcorder using the TV’s Remote Commander.

OFF Does not operate your camcorder using the TV’s Remote Commander.

Index
100
Functions set in the OPTION MENU
Items you can set only on the OPTION MENU will be described below.
Table of Contents
SPOT MTR/FCS
You can adjust the brightness and focus for the selected subject simultaneously. This function
enables you to use [SPOT METER] (p. 101) and [SPOT FOCUS] (p. 102) at the same time.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [SPOT MTR/FCS]  touch the subject you
want to adjust the brightness and focus on  [END] 

To adjust the brightness and focus automatically, touch [AUTO].
 Notes
[EXPOSURE] and [FOCUS] are automatically set to [MANUAL].
SPOT METER (Flexible spot meter)

You can adjust and fix the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded in suitable brightness
even when there is strong contrast between the subject and the background, such as subjects
in the spotlight on stage.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [SPOT METER]  touch the point where
you want to fix and adjust the exposure on the screen  [END] 
Index
To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [AUTO].

 Notes
[EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL].
101
SPOT FOCUS
You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located at the center of the
screen.
Steps
Table of Contents
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [SPOT FOCUS]  touch the point to be
focused within the frame on the screen  [END] 
To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO].

 Notes
[FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL].

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.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [TELE MACRO]  a desired setting 

Cancels TELE MACRO. (TELE MACRO is also canceled when you move the
 OFF
zoom lever to the W side.)
The zoom (p. 34) moves to the top of

the T (telephoto) side automatically
ON ( ) and allows recording subjects at a
close distance down toabout 45 cm
(17 3/4 in.).
 Notes
 When recording a distant subject, focusing may be difficult and can take some time.
Index
 Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 103) when it is hard to focus automatically.
102
EXPOSURE
You can fix the brightness of a picture manually. Adjust the brightness when the subject is too
bright or too dark.
Steps
Table of Contents
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [EXPOSURE]  [MANUAL]  (darker)/
(brighter)  
To adjust the exposure automatically, touch [AUTO].

 Tips
 You can adjust the exposure manually also by using MANUAL dial.

FOCUS
You can adjust the focus manually. You can select this function also when you want to focus
on a certain subject intentionally.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [FOCUS]  [MANUAL]  (focusing on
close subjects)/ (focusing on distant subjects)  
To adjust the focus automatically, touch [AUTO].

 Notes
 When you set [FOCUS] to [MANUAL],  appears.
 The minimum possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp focus is about 1
Index
cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide angle and about 80 cm (about 2 5/8 feet) for telephoto.
 Tips
 appears when the focus cannot be adjusted any closer, and appears when the focus cannot be
adjusted farther away.
 It is easier to focus on the subject by moving the power zoom lever towards T (telephoto) to adjust the
focus, then towards W (wide angle) to adjust the zoom for recording. When you want to record a subject
at close range, move the power zoom lever to W (wide angle), then adjust the focus.
103
 The focal distance information (distance at which the subject is focused on; used as a guide if it is dark
and focus adjustment is difficult) appears for a few seconds in the following cases. (This information will
not display correctly if a conversion lens (sold separately) is being used.)
 When the focus mode is switched from automatic to manual
 When you set focus manually
 You can adjust the focus manually also by using MANUAL dial.
Table of Contents
SCENE SELECTION
You can record images effectively in various situations.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [SCENE SELECTION]  a desired setting 

Automatically records images effectively without the [SCENE SELECTION]

 AUTO
function.
Maintains the darkening atmosphere of the distant

TWILIGHT* ( ) surroundings in twilight scenes.

Enables to take photos of people and background using
TWILIGHT PORT. ( )
a flash.
SUNRISE&SUNSET* Reproduces the atmosphere of scenes such as sunsets or

( ) sunrises.
FIREWORKS* ( ) Takes spectacular shots of fireworks.
Shoots distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents

LANDSCAPE*( ) your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in
windows between the camcorder and the subject.
PORTRAIT (Soft Brings out the subject such as people or flowers while
portrait) ( ) creating a soft background.
Prevents people’s faces from appearing excessively white

SPOTLIGHT**( ) when subjects are lit by strong light.
Index
BEACH** ( ) Takes the vivid blue of the ocean or a lake.
SNOW** ( ) Takes bright pictures of a white landscape.
104
* Adjusted to focus on subjects farther away only.
** Adjusted not to focus on subjects a short distance away.
 Notes
 If you set [SCENE SELECTION], [WHITE BAL.] setting is canceled.
 Even if you set [TWILIGHT PORT.] while the (Photo) lamp is lit, the setting changes to [AUTO] once
the (Movie) lamp lights up.
Table of Contents
WHITE BAL. (White balance)
You can adjust the color balance to the brightness of the recording environment.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [WHITE BAL.]  a desired setting  

 AUTO The white balance is adjusted automatically.
The white balance is appropriately adjusted for the following recording
conditions:
 Outdoors
OUTDOOR ( )  Night views, neon signs and fireworks
 Sunrise or sunset
 Under daylight fluorescent lamps
The white balance is appropriately adjusted for the following recording

conditions:
 Indoors
INDOOR ()  At party scenes or studios where the lighting conditions change quickly
 Under video lamps in a studio, or under sodium lamps or incandescent-
like color lamps
The white balance will be adjusted according to the ambient light.
 Touch [ONE PUSH].
 Frame a white object such as a piece of paper, to fill the screen under the
ONE PUSH ( ) same lighting conditions as you will shoot the subject.
 Touch [ ].
flashes quickly. When the white balance has been adjusted and stored in
the memory, the indicator stops flashing.
Index
 Notes
 Set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO] or adjust the color in [ONE PUSH] under white or cool white fluorescent
lamps.
 When you select [ONE PUSH], keep framing white objects while is flashing quickly.
 flashes slowly if [ONE PUSH] could not be set.
 When [ONE PUSH] was selected, if keeps flashing after touching , set [WHITE BAL.] to
[AUTO].
105
 If you set [WHITE BAL.], [SCENE SELECTION] is set to [AUTO].
 Tips
 If you have changed the battery pack while [AUTO] was selected, or taken your camcorder outdoors after
inside use (or vice versa), select [AUTO] and aim your camcorder at a nearby white object for about 10
seconds for better color balance adjustment.
 When the white balance is set by [ONE PUSH], if the ambient lighting, etc., changes because you moved
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your camcorder to or from outdoors, etc., you need to redo the [ONE PUSH] procedure to readjust the
white balance.
FADER
You can record a transition with the following effects adding to the interval between scenes.
Select the desired effect in [STBY] (to fading in) or [REC] (to fading out) mode.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [FADER]  a desired setting  
 OFF Does not use an effect.

Out In
WHITE FADER Fades in/out with the white effect.

Out In
BLACK FADER Fades in/out with the black effect.
To cancel the fader before starting the operation, touch [OFF].

 Tips
 When you press START/STOP, the setting is cleared.
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC (Built-in zoom microphone)

You can record a movie with directional sound as you zoom in or out.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [BLT-IN ZOOM MIC]  a desired setting 

Index
 OFF The microphone does not record sound following zooming in or out.
The microphone records sound following

ON ( )
zooming in or out.
106
MICREF LEVEL (Microphone reference level)
You can select the microphone level for recording sound.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [MICREF LEVEL]  a desired setting 
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
 NORMAL Records various ambient sounds, converting them into the appropriate level.
Records ambient sound faithfully. Select [LOW] when you want to record
LOW ( ) an exciting and powerful sound in a concert hall, etc. (This setting is not
suitable for recording conversations.)
SELF-TIMER
Press PHOTO to start the count down. A photo is recorded after about 10 seconds.
Steps
In recording mode, (OPTION)   [SELF-TIMER]  a desired setting  

 OFF Cancels the self-timer.
ON ( ) Starts the self-timer recording. To cancel the recording, touch [RESET].
 Tips
 You can also operate by pressing PHOTO on the Wireless Remote Commander (p. 9).
Index
107
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Overall operations/Easy Handycam
operation/Wireless Remote
If you run into any problems using your Commander
camcorder, use the following list to
troubleshoot the problem. If the problem
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The power does not turn on.
persists, disconnect the power source and
contact your Sony dealer.  Attach a charged battery pack to the
camcorder (p. 18).
 Overall operations/Easy Handycam operation/  The plug of the AC Adaptor has been
Wireless Remote Commander.....................p. 108 disconnected from the wall outlet (wall
 Batteries/power sources ...............................p. 109 socket). Connect it to the wall outlet (wall
 LCD screen/viewfinder.................................p. 110 socket) (p. 18).
 “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media................p. 110
 Recording........................................................p. 110 The camcorder does not operate even
 Playback..........................................................p. 112 when the power is set to on.
 Playing back images stored on “Memory Stick
 It takes a few seconds for your camcorder to
PRO Duo” media on other devices..............p. 113
 Editing movies/photos on your camcorder be ready to shoot after the power is turned on.
..........................................................................p. 113 This is not a malfunction.
Playback on the TV.......................................p. 113  Disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall


 Dubbing/Connecting to other devices........p. 114 outlet (wall socket) or remove the battery
 GPS..................................................................p. 114 pack, then reconnect it after about 1 minute.
 Functions that cannot be used simultaneously If the functions still do not work, press the
..........................................................................p. 114 RESET button (p. 8) using a pointed object.
(If you press the RESET button, all settings,
Notes before sending your camcorder including the clock setting, are reset.)
for repair  The temperature of your camcorder is
 Your camcorder may be required to initialize or extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and
change the current hard disk of your camcorder, leave it for a while in a cool place.
depending on the problem. In the event of this,  The temperature of your camcorder is
the data stored on the hard disk will be deleted. extremely low. Leave your camcorder with the
Be sure to save the data on the internal hard power of your camcorder on. Turn off your
disk on other media (backup) before sending camcorder and take it to a warm place. Leave
your camcorder for repair (p. 67, see Operating the camcorder there for a while, then turn on
Guide too). We will not compensate you for any your camcorder.
loss of hard disk data.
 During repair, we may check a minimum Buttons do not work.
amount of data stored on the hard disk in order  During Easy Handycam operation, the
to investigate the problem. However, your Sony
following buttons/functions are not available.
dealer will neither copy nor retain your data.
 MANUAL dial (p. 38)
Index
 MANUAL button (p. 38)

 Playback zoom (p. 49)
 To turn on and off the LCD backlight (p. 38)
108
 Point the remote sensor away from strong light
The (OPTION) button is not displayed. sources such as direct sunlight or overhead
 The OPTION MENU cannot be used during lighting. Otherwise, the Wireless Remote
Easy Handycam operation. Commander may not function properly.
The menu settings have changed Another DVD device malfunctions when
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automatically. you use the supplied Wireless Remote
 During Easy Handycam operation, nearly all Commander.
the menu items will be automatically set to the  Select a commander mode other than DVD 2
default settings. for your DVD device, or cover the sensor of
 Some menu items, such as [ IMAGE SIZE], your DVD device with black paper.
retain the settings that were made before Easy
Handycam operation. Batteries/power sources
 During Easy Handycam operation, some
menu items are fixed as follows.
 [REC MODE]: [HD SP] or [SD SP] The power abruptly turns off.
 [FRAME SETTING]: [ON]
 Use the AC Adaptor.
 [DATA CODE]: [DATE/TIME]
 In the default setting, when about 5 minutes
 Some menu items retain the setting made
have elapsed while you do not operate your
during Easy Handycam operation even after
camcorder, the camcorder is automatically
Easy Handycam operation is finished.

turned off (A.SHUT OFF). Change the setting
 The following menu items return to the
of [A.SHUT OFF] (p. 99), or turn on the
default settings in more than 12 hours after
power again.
you close the LCD screen.
 Charge the battery pack (p. 18).
 [AUTO BACK LIGHT]
 [DROP SENSOR]
The /CHG lamp does not light while the
 [SPOT MTR/FCS]
battery pack is being charged.
 [SPOT METER]
 [SPOT FOCUS]  Close the LCD screen (p. 18).
 [EXPOSURE]  Attach the battery pack to the camcorder
 [FOCUS] correctly (p. 18).
 [SCENE SELECTION]  Connect the power cord (mains lead) to the
 [WHITE BAL.] wall outlet (wall socket) properly.
 [BLT-IN ZOOM MIC]  The battery charge is completed (p. 18).
 [MICREF LEVEL]
The /CHG lamp flashes while the battery
The camcorder gets warm. pack is being charged.
 Your camcorder may become warm during  Attach the battery pack to the camcorder
operation. This is not a malfunction. correctly (p. 18). If the problem persists,
disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall
The supplied Wireless Remote outlet (wall socket) and contact your Sony
Index
Commander does not function. dealer. The battery pack may be damaged.
 Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON] (p. 99).
 Insert a battery into the battery holder with The remaining battery time indicator does
the +/– polarities correctly matching the not indicate the correct time.
+/– marks (p. 9).  The ambient temperature is too high or too
 Remove any obstructions between the low. This is not a malfunction.
Wireless Remote Commander and the remote  The battery pack has not been charged
sensor. enough. Fully charge the battery again. If the
109
problem persists, replace the battery pack with
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
a new one (p. 130).
 The indicated time may not be correct
depending on the environment of use. Operations using the “Memory Stick PRO
Duo” media cannot be performed.
The battery pack is quickly discharged.  If you use “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
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 The ambient temperature is too high or low. formatted on a computer, format it again on
This is not a malfunction. your camcorder (p. 72).
 The battery pack has not been charged
enough. Fully charge the battery again. If the Images stored on the “Memory Stick PRO
problem persists, replace the battery pack with Duo” media cannot be deleted.
a new one (p. 130).
 The maximum number of images that you can
delete on the index screen at one time is 100.
LCD screen/viewfinder  You cannot delete the protected images.
The data file name is not indicated

Menu items are grayed out.
correctly or flashes.
 You cannot select grayed items in the current
 The file is damaged.
recording/playback situation.
 The file format is not supported by your
 There are some functions you cannot activate
camcorder (p. 129).

simultaneously (p. 114).
The buttons do not appear on the touch Recording

panel.
Refer also to “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
 Touch the LCD screen lightly. media (p. 110).
 Press DISP on your camcorder (or DISPLAY
on the Wireless Remote Commander) (p. 38).
Pressing START/STOP or PHOTO does not
record images.
The buttons on the touch panel do not
work correctly or do not work at all.  The playback screen is displayed. Press MODE
to turn on the (Movie) or (Photo) lamp
 Adjust the touch panel ([CALIBRATION]) (p. 25).
(p. 131).  Your camcorder is recording the image you
have just shot on the recording media. You
The image in the viewfinder is not clear cannot make new recording during this
 Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever period.
until the image appears clearly (p. 31).  The recording media is full. Delete
unnecessary images (p. 57).
The image in the viewfinder has  Total number of movie scenes or photos
disappeared. exceeds the recordable capacity of your
Index
 Close the LCD panel. Even if the viewfinder camcorder (p. 120). Delete unnecessary
is pulled out, no image is displayed in the images (p. 57).
viewfinder when the LCD panel is open  While [DROP SENSOR] is activated (p. 99),
(p. 31). you may not record images.
 The temperature of your camcorder is
extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and
leave it for a while in a cool place.
110
extremely low. Turn off your camcorder and The camcorder stops operating.
take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder  The temperature of your camcorder is
there for a while, then turn on the camcorder. extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and
leave it for a while in a cool place.
Photos cannot be recorded.  The temperature of your camcorder is
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 You cannot record photos together with: extremely low. Turn off your camcorder and
 [SMTH SLW REC]
take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder
 [FADER]
there for a while, then turn on the camcorder.
 If you keep applying vibration on the
The ACCESS/access lamp remains lit or camcorder, recording may stop.
flashing even if recording was stopped.
There is a time difference between the
 Your camcorder is recording the scene you point when START/STOP is pressed and
have just shot on the recording media. the point that the recording movie is
started or stopped actually.
The imaging field looks different.
 On your camcorder, there may be a slight
 The imaging field may look different time difference between the point where you
depending on the condition of your press START/STOP and the actual point that
camcorder. This is not a malfunction. recording movie starts/stops. This is not a
malfunction.

The flash does not work.
 You cannot record with the flash: The horizontal to vertical ratio of the
 when capturing photos while shooting a movie (16:9 (wide)/4:3) cannot be
movie changed.
 if a conversion lens (sold separately) or a filter
 The horizontal to vertical ratio of high
(sold separately) is attached
definition image quality (HD) movies is 16:9
 Even if auto flash or (Auto redeye
(wide).
reduction) is selected, you cannot use the
flash with:
The auto focus does not function.
 NightShot
 [SPOT MTR/FCS]  Set [FOCUS] to [AUTO] (p. 103).
 [MANUAL] in [EXPOSURE]  The recording conditions are not suitable for
 [SPOT METER] auto focus. Adjust the focus manually (p. 103).
 [TWILIGHT], [SUNRISE&SUNSET],
[FIREWORKS], [LANDSCAPE], SteadyShot does not function.
[SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH] or [SNOW] in  Set [ STEADYSHOT] to [ACTIVE] or
[SCENE SELECTION] [STANDARD], [ STEADYSHOT] to [ON]
(p. 77, 83).
The actual recording time for movies is  Even if [ STEADYSHOT] is set to
less than the expected recording time of [ACTIVE] or [STANDARD], or
Index
the recording media. [ STEADYSHOT] is set to [ON], your

 Depending on the recording conditions, the camcorder may not be able to compensate for
time available for recording may be shorter, for excessive vibrations.
example when recording a fast moving object,
etc. (p. 120).
111
The subjects passing by the screen very Playback
fast appear crooked.
 This is called the focal plane phenomenon. Images cannot be played back.
This is not a malfunction. Because of the way
 Select the recording media you want to
the image device (CMOS sensor) reads out
play back by touching (HOME) 
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image signals, the subjects passing by the lens
(MANAGE MEDIA)  [MOVIE MEDIA
rapidly might appear crooked depending on
SET]/[PHOTO MEDIA SET] (p. 70).
the recording conditions.
 Select the image quality of a movie you want
to play back by touching (HOME) 
The color of the image is not correctly (SETTINGS)  [VIEW IMAGES SET] 
displayed. [ / SET] (p. 88).
 Set the STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch
to STD (p. 35). Photos cannot be played back.
 Photos cannot be played back if you have
The screen image is bright, and the modified files or folders, or have edited the
subject does not appear on the screen. data on a computer. (The file name flashes in
 Set the STD/LOW LUX/NIGHTSHOT switch that case.) This is not a malfunction.
to STD (p. 35).  Photos recorded on other devices may not be
played back. This is not a malfunction.

The screen image is dark, and the subject
does not appear on the screen. is indicated on an image on the
 Press and hold DISP down for a few seconds VISUAL INDEX screen.
to turn on the backlight (p. 38).  This may appear on an image recorded on
other devices, edited on a computer, etc.
Horizontal stripes appear on the images.  You removed the AC Adaptor or the battery
 This occurs when recording images under a pack before the ACCESS/access lamp is turned
fluorescent lamp, sodium lamp, or mercury off after recording. This may damage your
lamp. This is not a malfunction. image data and is displayed.
[LCD BL LEVEL] cannot be adjusted. is indicated on an image on the

VISUAL INDEX screen.
 You cannot adjust [LCD BL LEVEL] when:
 The LCD panel is closed on your camcorder  The image data base file may be damaged.
with the LCD screen facing out. Check the data base file by touching
 The power is supplied from the AC Adaptor. (HOME)  (MANAGE MEDIA) 
[REPAIR IMG.DB F.]  the recording
Sound is not recorded correctly. medium. If it still appears, delete the image
with (p. 57).
 If you disconnect an external microphone, etc.
during recording movies, sound may not be
No sound or only a quiet sound is heard
Index
recorded correctly.
during playback.
 Connect the microphone again in the same
way as when you start recording movies.  Turn up the volume (p. 42).
 Sound is not output when the LCD screen is
closed. Open the LCD screen.
 When you record sound with [MICREF
LEVEL] (p. 107) set to [LOW], the recorded
sound may be difficult to hear.
112
 Sounds cannot be recorded while shooting
Editing movies/photos on your
an about-3-second movie using [SMTH SLW
REC]. camcorder
Left and right sound will be heard Unable to edit.

unbalanced when playing back movies on
Unable to edit because of the condition of the
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
computers or other devices.
image.
 This happens when sound recorded in 5.1ch
surround is converted to 2ch (normal stereo Movies cannot be added in the Playlist.
sound) by a computer or other device. This is
not a malfunction.  There is no free space in the recording media.
 Change the sound conversion type (downmix  You can add no more than 999 high definition
type) when playing back on 2ch stereo devices. image quality (HD) movies, or 99 standard
Refer to the instruction manual supplied with definition image quality (SD) movies, to a
your playback device for details. Playlist. Erase unnecessary movies from the
 Change the sound to 2ch when creating a disc Playlist (p. 66).
using the supplied software “PMB.”  You cannot add photos in the Playlist.
 Record sound with [AUDIO MODE] set to
[2ch STEREO] (p. 75). A movie cannot be divided.
 A movie that is too short cannot be divided.
The demonstration movies cannot be  A protected movie cannot be divided.

played.
 Select the internal hard disk for the recording A photo cannot be captured from a
media, and the high definition image quality movie.
(HD).  The recording media where you want to save
 The demonstration movie is deleted. photos is full.
Playing back images stored on Playback on the TV

“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media on
other devices Neither image nor sound is played on the
connected TV.
Images cannot be played back or  When you are using the component A/V
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are not cable, set [COMPONENT] according to the
recognized. requirements of the connected device (p. 94).
 When you are using the component video
 You cannot play back high definition image
plug, make sure the red and white plugs of the
quality (HD) movies on “Memory Stick PRO
A/V connecting cable are connected (p. 52,
Duo” media on a device that is not compatible
53).
with AVCHD format.
 Images are not output from the HDMI OUT
Index
jack, if copyright protection signals are

recorded in the images.
 When you are using the S VIDEO plug,
make sure the red and white plugs of the A/V
connecting cable are connected (p. 53).
113
The top, bottom, right, and left edges GPS
of images are trimmed slightly on a
connected TV.
The camcorder is not receiving a GPS
 The LCD screen of your camcorder can signal (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).
display recording images across the entire
 Your camcorder may not be able to receive
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screen (full pixel display). However, this may
radio signals from GPS satellites because of
cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right,
obstructions. Bring your camcorder to an
and left edges of images when played back on
open area, and set the GPS switch to ON
a TV which is not compatible with full pixel
again.
display.
 It is recommended you record images using
The current location on the map of the
the outer frame of [GUIDEFRAME](p. 78) as
camcorder is different from the actual
a guide.
current location (HDR-XR500V/XR520V).
The image appears distorted on the 4:3  The margin of error of the radio signal from
TV. GPS satellites is large. The margin of error can
be as wide as several-hundred meters at the
 This happens when viewing an image
maximum.
recorded in the 16:9 (wide) mode on a 4:3 TV.
Set [TV TYPE] correctly (p. 93) and play back
the image. Functions that cannot be used

simultaneously
Black bands appear at the top and bottom
of the screen of the 4:3 TV. The following list shows examples of
 This happens when viewing an image recorded
unworkable combinations of functions and
in the 16:9 (wide) mode on a 4:3 TV. This is menu items.
not a malfunction. Cannot use Because of following settings
[FACE NightShot, [SMTH SLW
Dubbing/Connecting to other DETECTION] REC], [DIGITAL ZOOM],
[SPOT MTR/FCS],
devices [SPOT METER], [SPOT
FOCUS], [EXPOSURE],
[FOCUS], [TWILIGHT],
Images are not dubbed correctly.
[TWILIGHT PORT.],
 You cannot dub images using the HDMI cable. [SUNRISE&SUNSET],
 The A/V connecting cable is not connected [FIREWORKS],
properly. Make sure to connect the cable to the [LANDSCAPE],
input jack of another device (p. 67). [SPOTLIGHT], [BEACH],
[SNOW], [WHITE BAL.],
[DETECTION NightShot, [SMTH SLW
SET] REC], [DIGITAL ZOOM],
Index
[FADER], [SELF-TIMER]
[SMILE NightShot, [SMTH SLW
SENSITIVITY] REC], [DIGITAL ZOOM],
[SMILE NightShot, [SMTH SLW
PRIORITY] REC], [DIGITAL ZOOM],
114
Cannot use Because of following settings
(Warning on the hard disk of the
[FRAME NightShot, [SMTH SLW camcorder)
SETTING] REC]
[SCENE NightShot, LOW LUX, Fast flashing
SELECTION] [FADER], [TELE MACRO]  The hard disk of the camcorder is full.
 An error may have occurred with the hard
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disk drive in your camcorder.
Self-diagnosis display/Warning
indicators  (Battery level warning)
If indicators appear on the LCD screen or Slow flashing
viewfinder, check the following.  The battery pack is nearly used up.
If the problem persists even after you  Depending on the operating environment or
battery conditions,  may flash, even if there
have tried to fix a couple of times, contact
are about 20 minutes remaining.
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony
service facility. (High temperature warning)
Slow flashing
 The temperature of your camcorder is getting
higher. Turn off your camcorder and leave it

for a while in a cool place.
Fast flashing
C: (or E:) : (Self-diagnosis display)
extremely high. Turn off your camcorder and
C:04: leave it for a while in a cool place.
 The battery pack is not an “InfoLITHIUM”
battery pack (H series). Use an (Low temperature warning)
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series)
(p. 129). Fast flashing
 Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the
DC IN jack of your camcorder securely (p. 18). extremely low. Make the camcorder warm.
C:13: / C:32:
(Warning indicator pertaining to
 Remove the power source. Reconnect it and
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media)
operate your camcorder again.
E:20: / E:31: / E:61: / E:62: / Slow flashing
E:91: / E:94: / E:95: / E:96:  Free spaces for recording images are running
 A malfunction that you cannot service has out. For the type of “Memory Stick” media you
occurred. Contact your Sony dealer or local can use with your camcorder, see page 70.
authorized Sony service facility. Inform them  No “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are
of the 5-digit code, which starts from “E”. inserted (p. 70).

Index
Fast flashing
101-0001 (Warning indicator pertaining  There are not enough free spaces for recording
to files) images. After storing the images on other
media (p. 67, see Operating Guide too), delete
Slow flashing
unnecessary images, or format the “Memory
 The file is damaged.
Stick PRO Duo” media (p. 72).
 The file is unreadable.
115
 The image data base file may be damaged. dropped. Therefore, the camcorder is taking
Check the data base file by touching steps to protect the hard disk. Recording/
(HOME)  (MANAGE MEDIA)  playback may be disabled as a result.
[REPAIR IMG.DB F.]  the recording  The drop sensor function does not guarantee
medium. the protection of the hard disk under all
 The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are possible situations. Use the camcorder under
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damaged. stable conditions.
(Warning indicators pertaining (Warning indicator pertaining to

to “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media photo recording)
formatting)  The recording media is full.
 The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are  Photos cannot be recorded during processing.
damaged. Wait for a while, then record.
 The “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media are not
formatted correctly (p. 72).
 Tips
(Warning indicator pertaining to  You may hear a melody when some warning
incompatible “Memory Stick PRO Duo” indicators appear on the screen.
media)
 Incompatible “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media Description of warning messages

are inserted (p. 70).
If messages appear on the screen, follow the
 (Warning indicator pertaining to instructions.
the write-protect of the “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media) Recording media
 Access to the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
HDD format error.
was restricted on another device.
 The internal hard disk of the camcorder
(Warning indicator pertaining to the is set differently from the default format.
flash) Performing [MEDIA FORMAT] (p. 72) may
enable you to use your camcorder. This will
Fast flashing delete all data in the internal hard disk.
 There is something wrong with the flash.
Data error.
(Warning indicator pertaining to
 An error occurred during reading or writing
camera-shake warning)
the internal hard disk of the camcorder. This
 The amount of lights is not sufficient, so may occur when you keep applying shock on
camera-shake easily occurs. Use the flash. the camcorder.
 The camcorder is unsteady, so camera-shake  If the message is preceded by a GPS indicator,
easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with there may be some trouble with the GPS
Index
both hands and record the image. However, receiver. Turn on your camcorder again.
note that the camera-shake warning indicator (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)
does not disappear.
(Warning indicator pertaining to drop

sensor)
 The drop sensor function (p. 99) is activated,
and has detected that the camcorder has been
116
The Image Database File is damaged. Do Reinsert the Memory Stick.
you want to create a new file?  Reinsert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
HD movie management information is a few times. If even then the indicator flashes,
damaged. Create new information? the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media could be
 The image management file is damaged. When damaged. Try with other “Memory Stick PRO
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you touch [YES], a new image management Duo” media.
file is created. The old recorded images on the
media cannot be played back (Image files are This Memory Stick is not formatted
not damaged). If you execute [REPAIR IMG. correctly.
DB F.] after creating new information, playing
 Check the format, then format the “Memory
back the old recorded images may become
Stick PRO Duo” media with your camcorder if
possible. If it does not work, copy the image
necessary (p. 72).
using the supplied software.
Still picture folder is full. Cannot record
Inconsistencies found in Image Database still pictures.
File. Do you want to repair the Image
Database File?  You cannot create folders exceeding
The Image Database File is damaged. Do 999MSDCF. You cannot create or delete
you want to repair the Image Database created folders using your camcorder.
File?  Format the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media

Inconsistencies found in Image Database (p. 72), or delete folders using your computer.
File. Cannot record or play HD movies. Do
you want to repair the Image Database This Memory Stick may not be able to
File? record or play movies.
 The image management file is damaged, and  Use “Memory Stick” media recommended for
you cannot record movies or photos. Touch your camcorder (p. 70).
[YES] to repair.
 You can record photos on “Memory Stick PRO This Memory Stick may not be able to
Duo” media. record or play images correctly.
 Use the recommended “Memory Stick” media
Buffer overflow (p. 70).
 You cannot record because the drop sensor
senses a drop of the camcorder repeatedly. Do not eject the Memory Stick during
If you are at risk of dropping the camcorder writing. Data may be damaged.
constantly, set [DROP SENSOR] to [OFF],  Reinsert the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media,
and you may be able to record the image again and follow the instructions on the LCD screen.
(p. 99).
Other
Recovering data.
Index
 Your camcorder tries to recover data No further selection is possible.

automatically if the data writing was not  You can select only 100 images at one time for:
performed properly.  Deleting movies/photos
 Protecting movies/photos, or releasing the
Cannot recover data. protection
 Dubbing movies
 Writing data onto the internal hard disk of the
 Copying photos
camcorder has failed. Attempts were made to
 Editing the playlist of high definition image
recover the data, but they were unsuccessful.
quality (HD) movies
117
Data protected.
 You tried to delete protected data. Release the
protection of the data.
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Index
118
Additional information
Recording time of 
Bottom: When recording with the viewfinder
Each recording time is measured under the
movies/number of following condition:
[REC MODE]: SP
recordable photos  Typical recording time shows the time when
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you repeat recording start/stop, switching the
“HD” stands for high definition image MODE lamp, and zooming.
quality, and “SD” stands for standard image  Times measured when using the camcorder at
quality. 25 C (77 F) (10 C to 30 C (50 F to 86 F)
is recommended).
 The recording and playback time will be
Expected time of recording and shorter when you use your camcorder in low
playback with each battery pack temperatures.
 The recording and playback time will be shorter
Recording time depending on the conditions under which you
Approximate time available when you use a use your camcorder.
fully charged battery pack.
Playing time
Internal hard disk
Approximate time available when you use a
(unit: minute) fully charged battery pack.

Battery pack Continuous Typical recording
recording time time (unit: minute)
Image quality HD SD HD SD Battery pack LCD panel opened* LCD panel closed
NP-FH50 65 80 30 40 Image quality HD SD HD SD
70 85 35 40 NP-FH50 115 115 120 120
NP-FH60 90 110 45 55 115 115 120 120
(supplied) 95 115 45 55 NP-FH60 150 150 160 160
NP-FH70 140 180 70 90 (supplied) 150 150 160 160
150 190 75 95 NP-FH70 245 245 255 255
NP-FH100 325 405 160 200 245 245 255 255
350 430 175 215 NP-FH100 555 555 580 580
555 555 580 580
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media  Top: Internal hard disk
(unit: minute) Bottom: “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
Battery pack Continuous Typical recording * When the LCD backlight turns on
recording time time
Image quality HD SD HD SD
NP-FH50 65 85 30 40
70 90 35 45
Index
NP-FH60 90 115 45 55
(supplied) 95 120 45 60
NP-FH70 140 185 70 90
150 195 75 95
NP-FH100 325 415 160 205
350 440 175 220
 Top: When the LCD backlight turns on
119
* You can change the recording sound format
Expected recording time of movies
with [AUDIO MODE] (p. 75).
Internal hard disk
 Tips
High definition image quality (HD)  You can record movies of a maximum of 3,999
scenes with high definition image quality (HD),
(unit: hour minute)
and 9,999 scenes with standard definition image
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Recording mode Recording time quality (SD).
HDR-XR500 HDR-XR500V  The maximum continuous recording time of
[HD FH] 14 h 30 m 14 h 30 m movies is approximately 13 hours.
[HD HQ] 29 h 40 m 29 h 30 m  Your camcorder uses the VBR (Variable Bit
Rate) format to automatically adjust image
[HD SP] 36 h 35 h 50 m
quality to suit the recording scene. This
[HD LP] 48 h 10 m 47 h 50 m technology causes fluctuations in the recording
(5.1ch)* time of the media. Movies containing quickly
[HD LP] 50 h 30 m 50 h 10 m moving and complex images are recorded at
(2ch)* a higher bit rate, and this reduces the overall
Recording mode Recording time recording time.
HDR-XR520 HDR-XR520V
[HD FH] 29 h 20 m 29 h 10 m
[HD HQ] 59 h 40 m 59 h 20 m High definition image quality (HD)

[HD SP] 72 h 20 m 72 h 10 m (unit: minute)
[HD LP] 96 h 30 m 96 h 10 m AVC HD AVC HD AVC HD AVC HD AVC HD
(5.1ch)* 16M 9M 7M 5M 5M
[HD LP] 101 h 20 m 101 h (FH) (HQ) (SP) (LP) (LP)
(2ch)* 5.1ch* 2ch*
1GB 6 10 15 20 20
(6) (9) (10) (15) (15)
Standard definition image quality (SD)
2GB 10 25 30 45 45
(unit: hour minute) (10) (20) (20) (35) (35)
Recording mode Recording time 4GB 25 55 65 90 95
HDR-XR500 HDR-XR500V (25) (35) (45) (70) (70)
[SD HQ] 29 h 40 m 29 h 30 m 8GB 55 115 140 185 195
(55) (80) (100) (145) (150)
[SD SP] 43 h 50 m 43 h 40 m
16 110 230 280 375 390
[SD LP] 84 h 10 m 83 h 40 m
GB (110) (160) (200) (290) (300)
(5.1ch)*
[SD LP] 91 h 50 m 91 h 20 m
(2ch)* Standard definition image quality (SD)
Recording mode Recording time (unit: minute)
HDR-XR520 HDR-XR520V SD 9M SD 6M SD 3M SD 3M
Index
[SD HQ] 59 h 40 m 59 h 20 m (HQ) (SP) (LP) (LP)

5.1ch* 2ch*
[SD SP] 88 h 10 m 87 h 50 m
1GB 10 20 35 40
[SD LP] 169 h 168 h 20 m (10) (10) (25) (25)
(5.1ch)*
2GB 25 40 80 85
[SD LP] 184 h 20 m 183 h 50 m (25) (25) (50) (55)
(2ch)*
4GB 55 80 160 170
(50) (50) (105) (110)
120
(unit: minute) on the recording conditions, and the type of
“Memory Stick” media.
SD 9M SD 6M SD 3M SD 3M
 The unique pixel array of Sony’s ClearVid and
(HQ) (SP) (LP) (LP)
the image processing system (BIONZ) allow
5.1ch* 2ch*
still image resolution equivalent to the sizes
8GB 115 170 325 355
described.
(100) (100) (215) (230)
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16GB 230 340 655 715  Tips
(205) (205) (435) (460)  You can also use “Memory Stick Duo” media
* You can change the recording sound format
with a capacity of under 1 GB for recording
with [AUDIO MODE] (p. 75). photos.
 Notes
 Numbers in the table are based on using a Sony
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.
 The recordable time may vary depending on the
recording and subject conditions, [REC MODE]
(p. 74), and the type of “Memory Stick” media.
 The number in ( ) is the minimum recordable
time.
Expected number of recordable

photos
Internal hard disk
You can record the maximum 9,999 photos.

12.0M
4000  3000
1GB 165
2GB 345
4GB 670
8GB 1350
16GB 2750
 The selected image size is effective when the

(Photo) lamp is lit.
 The number of recordable photos shown is for
the maximum image size of your camcorder.
Index
The actual number of recordable photos is

displayed on the LCD screen during recording
(p. 10).
 Notes
Numbers in the table are based on using Sony
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media. The number
of recordable photos may vary depending
121
Using your camcorder System Used in
NTSC Bahama Islands, Bolivia,
abroad Canada, Central America,
Chile, Colombia, Ecuador,
Power supply Guyana, Jamaica, Japan,
Korea, Mexico, Peru, Surinam,
You can use your camcorder in any
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Taiwan, the Philippines, the
countries/regions using the AC Adaptor USA, Venezuela, etc.
supplied with your camcorder within the PAL Australia, Austria, Belgium,
AC 100 V to 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz range. China, Czech Republic,
Denmark, Finland, Germany,
Viewing high definition image quality Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary,
(HD) movies Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, New
Zealand, Norway, Poland,
In countries/regions where 1080/60i is
Portugal, Singapore, Slovak
supported, you can view the movies with Republic, Spain, Sweden,
the same high definition image quality Switzerland, Thailand, United
(HD) as that of the recorded movies. Kingdom, etc.
You need an NTSC-system-based and PAL – M Brazil
1080/60i compatible TV (or monitor) with PAL – N Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay.
component and AUDIO/VIDEO input SECAM Bulgaria, France, Guiana, Iran,

jacks. A component A/V cable or an HDMI Iraq, Monaco, Russia, Ukraine,
etc.
cable (sold separately) must be connected.
Viewing standard definition image

quality (SD) movies
To view standard definition image quality
(SD) movies, you need an NTSC-system-
based TV with AUDIO/VIDEO input
jacks. An A/V connecting cable must be
connected.
On TV color systems
Your camcorder is an NTSC-system-based
camcorder. If you want to view the playback
image on a TV, it must be an NTSC-
system-based TV with an AUDIO/VIDEO
input jack.
Index
122
Setting to the local time
You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your
camcorder abroad. Touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS)  [CLOCK/ LANG] 
[AREA SET] and [DST SET]/[SUMMERTIME] (p. 96).
HDR-XR500V/XR520V
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When [AUTO CLOCK ADJ] and [AUTO AREA ADJ] are set to [ON], the clock is set to the
local time automatically by the GPS function (p. 96).
World time difference

Time-zone Area setting Time-zone Area setting
differences differences
GMT Lisbon, London +10:00 Melbourne, Sydney
+01:00 Berlin, Paris +11:00 Solomon Is
+02:00 Helsinki, Cairo, Istanbul +12:00 Fiji, Wellington, Eniwetok,
+03:00 Moscow, Nairobi Kwajalein
+03:30 Tehran –11:00 Samoa
+04:00 Abu Dhabi, Baku –10:00 Hawaii
+04:30 Kabul –09:00 Alaska
+05:00 Karachi, Islamabad –08:00 Los Angeles, Tijuana
+05:30 Calcutta, New Delhi –07:00 Denver, Arizona
+06:00 Almaty, Dhaka –06:00 Chicago, Mexico City
+06:30 Yangon –05:00 New York, Bogota
Index
+07:00 Bangkok, Jakarta –04:00 Santiago

+08:00 Hong Kong, Singapore, –03:30 St.John’s
Beijing –03:00 Brasilia, Montevideo
+09:00 Seoul, Tokyo –02:00 Fernando de Noronha
+09:30 Adelaide, Darwin –01:00 Azores, Cape Verde Is.
123
File/folder structure on the internal hard disk and
The file/folder structure is shown below. You do not usually need to acknowledge the file/
folder structure, when recording/playing back movies and photos on the camcorder. To enjoy
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movies or photos by connecting your camcorder to a computer, see “PMB Guide” then use the
supplied application.

* Only for the internal hard disk
 Image management files The file numbers go up automatically.

When you delete the files, you cannot When the capacity of a file number
record/play back the images correctly. exceeds 9999, another folder is created
The files are defaulted as hidden files to record new movie files.
and not usually displayed. The folder name goes up: [101PNV01]
 [102PNV01]
 HD movie management information
folder  Photo files (JPEG files)
This folder contains recording data of The extension of the files is “.JPG”. The
high definition image quality (HD) file numbers go up automatically. When
movies. Do not try to open this folder the capacity of a file number exceeds
or access the contents of this folder from 9999, another folder is created to store
a computer. Doing so might damage new photo files.
image files, or prevent image files from The folder name goes up: [101MSDCF]
Index
being played back.  [102MSDCF]

 SD movie files (MPEG2 files)  By setting (HOME)  (OTHERS) 
The extension of the files is “.MPG”. [USB CONNECT]  [ USB CONNECT]/
The maximum size is 2 GB. When the [ USB CONNECT], you can access the
recording media from the computer through
capacity of a file exceeds 2 GB, the file
USB connection.
becomes divided.
124
 Do not modify the files or folders on the
camcorder from the computer. The image files Maintenance and

may be destroyed or may not be played back.
Operation is not guaranteed, if you perform the
precautions
above operation.
 When you delete image files, follow the steps
About the AVCHD format
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on page 57. Do not delete the image files on the
camcorder directly from the computer.
What is the AVCHD format?
 Do not format the recording media using a
computer. The camcorder may not operate The AVCHD format is a high definition
correctly. digital video camera format used to record
 Do not copy the files on the recording a high definition (HD) signal of either
media from the computer. Operation is not the 1080i specification*1 or the 720p
guaranteed. specification*2 on internal hard disk drive,
using efficient data compression coding
technology. The MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
format is adopted to compress video data,
and the Dolby Digital or Linear PCM
system is used to compress audio data.
The MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format is

capable of compressing images at higher
efficiency than that of the conventional
image compressing format. The MPEG-
4 AVC/H.264 format enables a high
definition video signal shot on a digital
video camera recorder to be recorded on
8 cm DVD discs, internal hard disk drive,
flash memory, “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media, etc.
Recording and playback on your

camcorder
Based on the AVCHD format, your
camcorder records with the high definition
image quality (HD) mentioned below.
In addition to high definition image
quality (HD), your camcorder is capable of
recording a standard definition (SD) signal
Index
in the conventional MPEG2 format.
Video signal*3: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 1920

 1080/60i, 1440  1080/60i
Audio signal: Dolby Digital 5.1/2ch
Recording media: Internal hard disk drive,
125
*1 1080i specification reach the camcorder as follows.
A high definition specification which utilizes  In tunnels, indoors or under the shade of
1,080 effective scanning lines and the interlace buildings.
system.  Between tall buildings or at narrow streets
*2 720p specification surrounded by buildings.
A high definition specification which utilizes  In underground locations, locations
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720 effective scanning lines and the progressive surrounded by dense trees, under an elevated
system. bridge, or in locations where magnetic fields
*3 Data recorded in AVCHD format other than are generated, such as near high voltage
the above mentioned cannot be played on your cables.
camcorder.  Near devices that generate radio signals of the
same frequency band as the camcorder: near
1.5 GHz band mobile telephones, etc.
About GPS (HDR-XR500V/XR520V)
The GPS (Global Positioning System) is a On triangulating errors
 If you move to another location right after
system that calculates geographical location
setting the GPS switch to ON, it may take
from highly accurate US space satellites.
a longer time for the camcorder to start
This system allows you to pinpoint your trianguating, compared to when you stay in the
exact location on the earth. The GPS same place.
satellites are located in 6 orbits, 20,000 km  Error caused by the position of GPS satellites
The camcorder automatically triangulates your

above the earth. The GPS system consists
of 24 or more GPS satellites. A GPS receiver current location when the camcorder receives
radio signals from 3 or more GPS satellites. The
receives radio signals from the satellites,
triangulating error allowed by the GPS satellites
and calculates the current location of the is about 30 m (98 feet). Depending on the
receiver based on the orbital information environment of the location, the triangulating
(almanac data) and travel time of the error can be greater. In this case, your actual
signals, etc. location may not match the location on the map
Determining a location is called based on the GPS information. Meanwhile,
the GPS satellites are controlled by the Unites
“triangulating.” A GPS receiver can
States Department of Defense, and the degree of
determine the location’s latitude and
accuracy may be changed intentionally.
longitude by receiving signals from 3 or  Error during the triangulating process
more satellites. The camcorder acquires location information
every 10 seconds during triangulating.
 As the positions of GPS satellites vary
There is a slight time difference between when
constantly, it may take longer to determine
the location information is acquired and when
the location or the receiver may not be able to
the location information is recorded on an
determine the location at all, depending on the
image, therefore, the actual recording location
location and time you use the camcorder.
may not match exactly the location on the map
 “GPS” is a system for determining geographic
based on the GPS information.
location by triangulating radio signals from
Index
GPS satellites. Avoid using the camcorder On the restriction of use of GPS on an
in places where radio signals are blocked or
airplane
reflected, such as a shadowy place surrounded
 During take off and landing of an airplane,
by buildings or trees, etc. Use the camcorder in
set the GPS switch to OFF and turn off the
open sky environments.
camcorder, as you will be instructed to do by
 You may not be able to record location
the on-board announcement. In other cases, use
information at locations or in situations where
GPS in accordance with the regulations of the
radio signals from the GPS satellites do not
place or situation.
126
On the map data Hungary
 The camcorder contains map data for the Copyright © 2003; Top-Map Ltd.
following countries/regions. Italy
Europe, Japan, North America, Oceania, etc. La Banca Dati Italiana è stata prodotta usando
 Built-in map is powered by companies as quale riferimento anche cartografia numerica
follows; Map of Japan by Zenrin Co., Ltd., other ed al tratto prodotta e fornita dalla Regione
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areas by NAVTEQ. Toscana.
 The map data included is as of the date of Japan
production of this manual.
 GPS maps will appear in 2-dimensional
graphics except for certain landmarks in Japan,
which will appear in 3D.
 You cannot change the language on the map.
 You cannot update the map data.
 The scale of the map is 100 feet to 6,000 miles.
On the geographic coordinate system

 The “WGS-84” geographic coordinate system
is used. Norway
Copyright © 2000; Norwegian Mapping
On copyright Authority

 The map data of the camcorder is copyrighted. Portugal
Unauthorized copying or other usage of the Source: IgeoE – Portugal
map data may be contrary to the copyright laws. Spain
Información geográfica propiedad del CNIG
On the navigation function Sweden
 The camcorder does not have a navigation Based upon electronic data © National Land
function that uses GPS. Survey Sweden.
Switzerland
Australia Topografische Grundlage: © Bundesamt für
Copyright. Based on data provided under Landestopographie.
license from PSMA Australia Limited (www.
psma.com.au).
About “Memory Stick” media
Austria
© Bundesamt für Eich- und Vermessungswesen “Memory Stick” media are compact,
Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania,
portable IC recording media with a large
Poland and Slovenia
© EuroGeographics
data capacity.
France You can use only “Memory Stick Duo”
source: Géoroute® IGN France & BD Carto® media, which are about the half size of
IGN France standard “Memory Stick” media, with your
Germany camcorder.
Index
Die Grundlagendaten wurden mit However, we do not guarantee the

Genehmigung der zustaendigen Behoerden
operation of all types of “Memory Stick
entnommen.
Great Britain Duo” media on your camcorder.
Based upon Crown Copyright material.
Greece
© EuroGeographics; Copyright Geomatics Ltd.
127
Types of “Memory Stick” media Recording/Playback  Do not disassemble or modify “Memory Stick
PRO Duo” media.
“Memory Stick Duo” —
 Do not let “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
media (with MagicGate)
get wet.
“Memory Stick PRO   Keep “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media out of
Duo” media the reach of small children. There is danger that
“Memory Stick PRO-HG
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* a child might swallow it.
Duo” media  Do not insert anything other than “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media into the “Memory
* This product does not support 8-bit parallel
Stick Duo” media slot. Doing so may cause a
data transfer but it supports 4-bit parallel data
malfunction.
transfer the same as with “Memory Stick PRO
 Do not use or keep “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
Duo” media.
media in the following locations:
 This product cannot record or play data that  Places subject to extremely high temperature,
uses “MagicGate” technology. “MagicGate” is such as a car parked outside in the summer
a copyright protection technology that records  Places under direct sunlight
and transfers the contents in an encrypted  Places with extremely high humidity or
format. subject to corrosive gases
 “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media formatted by
a computer (Windows OS/Mac OS) do not have On the “Memory Stick Duo” media
guaranteed compatibility with your camcorder. adaptor
 Data read/write speed may vary depending on

 When using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
the combination of the “Memory Stick PRO with a “Memory Stick” media compliant device,
Duo” media and “Memory Stick PRO Duo” be sure to insert the “Memory Stick PRO
media compliant product you use. Duo” media into a “Memory Stick Duo” media
 Damaged or lost data may occur in the adaptor.
following cases (the data will not be  When inserting “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
compensated for): media into a “Memory Stick Duo” media
 If you eject the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
adaptor, make sure “Memory Stick PRO
media, or turn off your camcorder while your Duo” media are inserted facing in the correct
camcorder is reading or writing image files on direction, then insert “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
the “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (while media all the way in. Note that improper use
the ACCESS/access lamp is lit or flashing) may cause a malfunction.
 If you use the “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
 When using “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
media near magnets or magnetic fields inserted into a “Memory Stick Duo” media
 It is recommended that you make a back-up of adaptor on a “Memory Stick” media compliant
important data on the hard disk of a computer. device, make sure the “Memory Stick PRO
 Be careful not to apply excessive force when Duo” media adaptor is inserted into the device
writing a memo area on “Memory Stick PRO in the correct direction. If inserted in the wrong
Duo” media. direction, the device may be damaged.
 Do not attach a label or the like on “Memory  Do not insert a “Memory Stick Duo” media
Stick PRO Duo” media or a “Memory Stick adaptor without “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
Index
Duo” media adaptor. media attached into a “Memory Stick” media

 When you carry or store “Memory Stick PRO compliant device. Doing so may result in
Duo” media, put it in its case. malfunctions of the device.
 Do not touch, or allow metallic objects to come
into contact with the terminals. On “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media
 Do not bend, drop or apply strong force to  The maximum memory capacity of “Memory
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media. Stick PRO Duo” media that can be used with
your camcorder is 16 GB.
128
On image data compatibility off. If you charge the battery pack outside of
 Image data files recorded on “Memory Stick this temperature range, you may not be able to
PRO Duo” media by your camcorder conform charge it efficiently.
to the “Design rule for Camera File system”
universal standard established by the JEITA To use the battery pack effectively
(Japan Electronics and Information Technology  Battery pack performance decreases when the
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Industries Association). ambient temperature is 10 C (50 F) or below,
 On your camcorder, you cannot play back and the length of time you can use the battery
photos recorded on other devices (DCR- pack becomes shorter. In that case, do one
TRV900 or DSC-D700/D770) that do not of the following to use the battery pack for a
conform to the universal standard. (These longer time.
models are not sold in some regions.)  Put the battery pack in a pocket to warm it
 If you cannot use “Memory Stick PRO Duo” up, and install it on your camcorder right
media that have been used with another device, before you start taking shots.
format “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media with  Use a large capacity battery pack: NP-FH70/
your camcorder (p. 72). Note that formatting FH100 (sold separately).

erases all information on the “Memory Stick  Frequent use of the LCD screen or a frequent
PRO Duo” media. playback, fast forward or reverse operation
 You may not be able to play back images with wears out the battery pack faster. We
your camcorder: recommend using a large capacity battery pack:
 When playing back image data modified on NP-FH70/FH100 (sold separately).

your computer  Be sure to close the LCD screen when not
 When playing back image data recorded with recording or playing back on your camcorder.
other devices The battery pack is also consumed when your
camcorder is in recording standby or playback
pause.
About the “InfoLITHIUM” battery  Have spare battery packs ready for 2 or 3 times
pack the expected recording time, and make trial
recordings before making the actual recording.
Your camcorder operates only with an  Do not expose the battery pack to water. The
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (H series). battery pack is not water resistant.
“InfoLITHIUM” H series battery packs
have the mark. About the remaining battery time
indicator
What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack?  When the power goes off even though the
 An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a remaining battery time indicator indicates that
lithium-ion battery pack that has functions the battery pack has enough power to operate,
for communicating information related to charge the battery pack fully again. Remaining
operating conditions between your camcorder battery time will be indicated correctly. Note,
and an AC Adaptor/charger (sold separately). however, that the battery indication will not be
 The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack calculates the restored if it is used in high temperatures for
power consumption according to the operating a long time, or if left in a fully charged state,
Index
conditions of your camcorder, and displays the or when the battery pack is frequently used.
remaining battery time in minutes. Use the remaining battery time indication as a
rough guide only.
To charge the battery pack  The  mark that indicates low battery flashes
 Be sure to charge the battery pack before you even if there are still 20 minutes of battery
start using your camcorder. time remaining, depending on the operating
 We recommend charging the battery pack in an conditions or ambient temperature.
ambient temperature of between 10 C to 30 C
(50 F to 86 F) until the charge lamp turns
129
About storage of the battery pack sand or dust gets in your camcorder, it may
 If the battery pack is not used for a long time, malfunction. Sometimes this malfunction
fully charge the battery pack and use it up on cannot be repaired.
 Near windows or outdoors, where the LCD
your camcorder once a year to maintain proper
function. To store the battery pack, remove it screen, the viewfinder, or the lens may be
from your camcorder and put it in a dry, cool exposed to direct sunlight. This damages the
Table of Contents
place. inside of the viewfinder or the LCD screen.
 To discharge the battery pack on your  Operate your camcorder on DC 6.8 V/7.2 V
camcorder completely, touch (HOME)  (battery pack) or DC 8.4 V (AC Adaptor).
(SETTINGS)  [GENERAL SET]   For DC or AC operation, use the accessories
[A.SHUT OFF]  [NEVER], and leave your recommended in these operating instructions.
camcorder in recording standby until the power  Do not let your camcorder get wet, for example,
goes off (p. 99). from rain or sea water. If your camcorder
gets wet, it may malfunction. Sometimes this
About battery life malfunction cannot be repaired.
 Battery capacity decreases over time and  If any solid object or liquid gets inside the
through repeated use. If decreased usage time casing, unplug your camcorder and have it
between charges becomes significant, it is checked by a Sony dealer before operating it
probably time to replace it with a new one. any further.
 Each battery’s life is governed by storage,  Avoid rough handling, disassembling,
operating and environmental conditions. modifying, physical shock, or impact such
as hammering, dropping or stepping on the

product. Be particularly careful of the lens.
About x.v.Color  Keep the LCD screen closed when you are not
 x.v.Color is a more familiar term for the xvYCC using your camcorder.
standard proposed by Sony, and is a trademark  Do not wrap your camcorder with a towel, for
of Sony. example, and operate it. Doing so might cause
 xvYCC is an international standard for color heat to build up inside.
space in video. This standard can express a  When disconnecting the power cord (mains
wider color range than the currently used lead), pull it by the plug and not the cord (lead).
broadcast standard.  Do not damage the power cord (mains lead)
such as by placing anything heavy on it.
 Do not use a deformed or damaged battery
About handling of your camcorder pack.
 Keep metal contacts clean.
On use and care
 Keep the Wireless Remote Commander and
 Do not use or store the camcorder and button-type battery out of children’s reach. If
accessories in the following locations: the battery is accidentally swallowed, consult a
 Anywhere extremely hot, cold or humid.
doctor immediately.
Never leave them exposed to temperatures  If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked:
above 60 C (140 F), such as under direct  Consult your local authorized Sony service
sunlight, near heaters or in a car parked in facility.
Index
the sun. They may malfunction or become  Wash off any liquid that may have contacted
deformed. your skin.
 Near strong magnetic fields or mechanical
 If any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with
vibration. The camcorder may malfunction. plenty of water and consult a doctor.
 Near strong radio waves or radiation. The
camcorder may not be able to record properly.
 Near AM receivers and video equipment.
Noise may occur.
 On a sandy beach or anywhere dusty. If
130
When not using your camcorder for a To clean the LCD screen
long time  If fingerprints or dust make the LCD screen
 To keep your camcorder in optimum state for a dirty, it is recommended that you use a soft
long time, turn it on and let it run by recording cloth to clean it.
and playing back images about once a month.  When you use the LCD Cleaning Kit (sold
 Use up the battery pack completely before separately), do not apply the cleaning liquid
Table of Contents
storing it. directly to the LCD screen. Use cleaning paper
moistened with the liquid.
Moisture condensation
If your camcorder is brought directly from a cold On adjustment of the touch panel
place to a warm place, moisture may condense (CALIBRATION)
inside your camcorder. This may cause a The buttons on the touch panel may not work
malfunction to your camcorder. correctly. If this happens, follow the procedure
 If moisture condensation has occurred below. It is recommended that you connect your
Leave your camcorder for about 1 hour without camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using
turning it on. the supplied AC Adaptor during the operation.
 Note on moisture condensation  Touch (HOME)  (SETTINGS) 
Moisture may condense when you bring your [GENERAL SET]  [CALIBRATION].
camcorder from a cold place into a warm place
(or vice versa) or when you use your camcorder
in a humid place as follows:

 You bring your camcorder from a ski slope
into a place warmed up by a heating device.
 You bring your camcorder from an air
conditioned car or room into a hot place  Touch “” displayed on the screen with the
outside. corner of “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media or
 You use your camcorder after a squall or a the like 3 times.
shower. Touch [CANCEL] to cancel calibration.
 You use your camcorder in a hot and humid
place.  Notes
 How to prevent moisture condensation  If you did not press the right spot, try the
When you bring your camcorder from a cold calibration again.
place into a warm place, put your camcorder in  Do not use a sharp-pointed object for
a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Remove the bag calibration. Doing so may damage the LCD
when the air temperature inside the plastic bag screen.
has reached the surrounding temperature (after  You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is
about 1 hour). rotated, or closed with the screen facing out.
LCD screen On handling the casing

 Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD  If the casing is soiled, clean the camcorder body
screen, as it may cause uneven color and other with a soft cloth lightly moistened with water,
damage. and then wipe the casing with a dry soft cloth.
Index
 If your camcorder is used in a cold place, a  Avoid the following to avoid damage to the
residual image may appear on the LCD screen. finish:
This is not a malfunction.  Using chemicals such as thinner, benzine,
 While using your camcorder, the back of alcohol, chemical cloths, repellent, insecticide
the LCD screen may heat up. This is not a and sunscreen
malfunction.  Handling the camcorder with above
substances on your hands
 Leaving the casing in contact with rubber or
vinyl objects for a long period of time
131
About care and storage of the lens actual body of “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media.
 Wipe the surface of the lens clean with a soft
cloth in the following instances:
On trademarks
 When there are fingerprints on the lens
 “Handycam” and are
registered trademarks of Sony Corporation.
surface
 “AVCHD” and “AVCHD” logotype are
 In hot or humid locations
trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony
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 When the lens is exposed to salty air such as
Corporation.
at the seaside  “Memory Stick,” “, ” “Memory Stick Duo,” “
 Store in a well-ventilated location subject to ,” “Memory Stick PRO Duo,”
little dirt or dust. “ ,” “Memory Stick
 To prevent mold, periodically clean the lens as PRO-HG Duo,” “ ,”
described above. “MagicGate,” “ ,” “MagicGate
Memory Stick” and “MagicGate Memory Stick
On charging the pre-installed Duo” are trademarks or registered trademarks
rechargeable battery of Sony Corporation.
 “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony
Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable
Corporation.
battery to retain the date, time, and other settings
 “x.v.Color” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
even when the LCD screen is closed. The pre-
 “BIONZ” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
installed rechargeable battery is always charged
 “BRAVIA” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
while your camcorder is connected to the wall  Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks
outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while of Dolby Laboratories.

the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable  HDMI, the HDMI logo and HDMI Licencing
battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months LLC are trademarks or registered trademarks of
if you do not use your camcorder at all. Use HDMI Licencing LLC.
your camcorder after charging the pre-installed  Microsoft, Windows, Windows Media,
rechargeable battery. Windows Vista, and DirectX are either
However, even if the pre-installed rechargeable registered trademarks or trademarks of
battery is not charged, the camcorder operation Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/
or other countries.
will not be affected as long as you are not
 Macintosh and Mac OS are registered
recording the date.
trademarks of Apple Inc. in the U.S. and other
countries.
How to charge the pre-installed
 Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks
rechargeable battery or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation
Connect your camcorder to a wall outlet (wall or its subsidiaries in the United States and other
socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor, and leave countries.
it with the LCD screen closed for more than 24  Adobe, the Adobe logo, and Adobe Acrobat
hours. are either registered trademarks or trademarks
of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United
Note on disposal/transfer of “Memory States and/or other countries.
 NAVTEQ and the NAVTEQ Maps logo are
Stick PRO Duo” media
trademarks of NAVTEQ in the US and other
Even if you delete data in “Memory Stick PRO
countries.
Duo” media or format “Memory Stick PRO
Index
All other product names mentioned herein may

Duo” media on your camcorder or a computer,
be the trademarks or registered trademarks of
you may not delete data from the “Memory
their respective companies. Furthermore, 
Stick Duo” media completely. When you give
and  are not mentioned in each case in this
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media to somebody, it
Handbook.
is recommended that you delete date completely
using data deletion software on a computer. Also, Notes on the License
when you dispose of “Memory Stick PRO Duo”
ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT OTHER
media, it is recommended that you destroy the
THAN CONSUMER PERSONAL USE IN ANY
132
MANNER THAT COMPLIES WITH THE Source code is provided on the web. Use
MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO the following URL to download it. When
INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED MEDIA downloading the source code, select DCR-SR87 as
IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT A the model for your camcorder.
LICENSE UNDER APPLICABLE PATENTS IN http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/
THE MPEG-2 PATENT PORTFOLIO, WHICH We would prefer you do not contact us about the
Table of Contents
LICENSE IS AVAILABLE FROM MPEG LA, contents of source code.
L.L.C., 250 STEELE STREET, SUITE 300, Read “license2.pdf ” in the “License” folder on the
DENVER, COLORADO 80206. CD-ROM. You will find licenses (in English) of
“GPL,” and “LGPL” software.
THIS PRODUCT IS LICENSED UNDER THE
AVC PATENT PORTFOLIO LICENSE FOR THE To view the PDF, Adobe Reader is needed. If
PERSONAL AND NON-COMMERCIAL USE it is not installed on your computer, you can
OF A CONSUMER TO download it from the Adobe Systems web page:
(i) ENCODE VIDEO IN COMPLIANCE WITH http://www.adobe.com/
THE AVC STANDARD (“AVC VIDEO”) AND
/OR
(ii) DECODE AVC VIDEO THAT WAS
ENCODED BY A CONSUMER ENGAGED IN A
PERSONAL AND
NON-COMMERCIAL ACTIVITY AND/OR
WAS OBTAINED FROM A VIDEO PROVIDER

LICENSED TO PROVIDE AVC VIDEO.
NO LICENSE IS GRANTED OR SHALL BE
IMPLIED FOR ANY OTHER USE.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE
OBTAINED FROM MPEG LA, L.L.C.
SEE <HTTP://MPEGLA.COM>
“C Library,” “Expat,” “zlib,” and “libjpeg” software

are provided in your camcorder. We provide
this software based on license agreements with
their owners of copyright. Based on requests
by the owners of copyright of these software
applications, we have an obligation to inform
you of the following. Please read the following
sections.
Read “license1.pdf ” in the “License” folder on the
CD-ROM. You will find licenses (in English) of
“C Library,” “Expat,” “zlib,” and “libjpeg” software.
On GNU GPL/LGPL applied software

The software that is eligible for the following
Index
GNU General Public License (hereinafter referred

to as “GPL”) or GNU Lesser General Public
License (hereinafter referred to as “LGPL”) are
included in the camcorder.
This informs you that you have a right to have
access to, modify, and redistribute source code for
these software programs under the conditions of
the supplied GPL/LGPL.
133
Index
Symbols Copy..............................................62 Film Roll Index............................45

1080i/480i.....................................94 Creating a disc.............................67 FIREWORKS.............................104
Table of Contents
16:9................................................93 Creating a high definition image FLASH LEVEL.......................79, 84
quality (HD) disc.........................67 FLASH MODE.......................79, 83
4:3..................................................93
Creating a standard definition FOCUS........................................103
480i................................................94
image quality (SD) disc...............67
5.1ch surround recording...........34 Folder..........................................124
CTRL FOR HDMI.....................100
Format...........................................72
A FRAME SETTING............. 86, 115
D
A.SHUT OFF...............................99
DATA CODE.........................32, 88
Abroad........................................122 G
Date Index....................................48
Active Interface Shoe....................7 GENERAL SET............................98
DATE/TIME................... 21, 32, 88
AE SHIFT...............................75, 81 GPS................................................39
DELETE........................................57
AREA SET....................................96 GUIDEFRAME.....................78, 83
Deleting data..........................57, 72
AUDIO MODE............................75
DEMO MODE.............................98 H
AUTO CLOCK ADJ...................96
DETECTION SET.............. 87, 114 HDMI RESOLUTION................94
AUTO AREA ADJ.......................96
DIAL SETTING.....................80, 84

HD/SD SET............................74, 88
AUTO BACK LIGHT...........80, 85
DIGITAL ZOOM........................76 HELP function.............................12
AVCHD format..........................125
DISC BURN.................................13 High altitude................................17
A/V connecting cable.................68
Disc recorder................................67 HIGHLIGHT PLAYBACK.........47
B DISP OUTPUT............................94 HOME MENU.......................12, 13
BATTERY INFO..........................69 DIVIDE.........................................64 HQ.................................................74
Battery of the Wireless Remote DOWNLOAD MUSIC...............48
I
Commander...................................9 DROP SENSOR...........................99
Battery pack..................................18 DST SET.......................................97 Image quality..........................74, 88
BEACH.......................................104 Dual Rec.......................................35 IMAGE SIZE................................81
BEEP.............................................91 Dubbing........................................61 INDOOR....................................105
BLACK FADER.........................106 DVD writer..................................67 “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack
.....................................................129
BLT-IN ZOOM MIC.................106
E Internal hard disk......................124
“BRAVIA” Sync............................55
Easy Handycam Operation........24
J
C EDIT........................................63, 64
JPEG............................................124
CALIBRATION.........................131 Empty............................................73
CAMERA DATA...................89, 90 EXPOSURE................................103 L
Capturing a photo from a movie LANDSCAPE.............................104
.......................................................60 F
LANGUAGE SET..................22, 97
Index
Charging the battery pack..........18 FACE DETECTION........... 86, 114

LCD BL LEVEL...........................91
Charging the battery pack abroad FACE DET. SETTING................86
LCD BRIGHT..............................91
.............................................. 19, 122 FACE FUNC. SET.......................86
LCD COLOR................................92
CLOCK/LANG............................96 Face Index.....................................46
LOW LUX....................................35
CLOCK SET...........................21, 96 FADER........................................106
LP...................................................74
COMPONENT............................94 FH..................................................74
CONVERSION LENS...........80, 85 File...............................................124 M
COORDINATES.........................90 FILE NO........................................81 Maintenance...............................125
134
MANAGE MEDIA......................70 Precautions.................................125 T
MANUAL dial.............................38 PROTECT....................................63 TELE MACRO...........................102
Table of Contents
Map Index....................................44 Telephoto......................................34
R
MEDIA FORMAT.......................72 Thumbnail....................................57
REC LAMP...................................98
MEDIA INFO..............................72 Tripod.............................................8
REC MODE..................................74
“Memory Stick”............................70 Troubleshooting.........................108
Recording...............................24, 30
“Memory Stick” media..............127 TV..................................................51
Recording and playback time
“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media TV color systems.......................122
.....................................................119
........................................ 70, 71, 124
Recording media.........................70 TV CONNECT Guide................51
Menus............................................12
Recording time of movies/ TV TYPE......................................93
MICREF LEVEL........................107
number of recordable photos TWILIGHT................................104
Mirror mode................................36 .....................................................119 TWILIGHT PORT....................104
Moisture condensation.............131 REDEYE REDUC..................79, 84
MOVIE DUB...............................61 REMAINING SET.......................78 U
MOVIE MEDIA SET..................70 REMOTE CTRL..........................99 USB cable......................................67
Movies.............................. 26, 30, 41 Repair..........................................108 USB CONNECT..........................67

MOVIE SETTINGS....................74 REPAIR IMG.DB F........... 112, 116
V
MPEG2.......................................124 RESET.............................................8
VBR.............................................120
N S VIEW IMAGES SET...................88
NightShot......................................35 SCENE SELECTION....... 104, 115 Viewing...................................28, 43
NIGHTSHOT LIGHT..........76, 82 Screen indicators.........................10 VISUAL INDEX............. 27, 41, 42
NTSC..........................................122 Self-diagnosis display/Warning Volume....................................42, 91
indicators....................................115
O W
SELF-TIMER..............................107
ONE PUSH................................105 Wall outlet (wall socket).............19
Shooting..................................25, 32
OPTION MENU.......... 12, 14, 101 Warning messages.....................116
Slide show.....................................50
Original.........................................61 WB SHIFT..............................75, 82
SLIDE SHOW SET......................50
OTHERS.......................................57 WHITE BAL..............................105
SMILE PRIORITY.............. 87, 114
OUTDOOR................................105 WHITE FADER.........................106
SMILE SENSITIVITY........ 87, 114
OUTPUT SETTINGS.................93 Wide angle....................................34
SMILE SHUTTER.......................87
SMTH SLW REC.........................37 WIDE SELECT............................76
P
SNOW.........................................104 Wireless Remote Commander.....9
PB zoom........................................49
PHOTO CAPTURE....................60 SOUND/DISP SET......................91 X
PHOTO COPY............................62 SP...................................................74 x.v.Color............................... 77, 130
Index
PHOTO MEDIA SET.................70 SPOT FOCUS............................102

SPOTLIGHT..............................104 Y
Photos.............................. 28, 32, 43
PHOTO SETTINGS....................81 SPOT METER............................101 YOUR LOCATION.....................59
Playing....................................26, 41 SPOT MTR/FCS........................101
Z
Playlist...........................................65 STEADYSHOT......................77, 83
Zoom.......................................34, 49
PMB Guide.....................................2 SUMMERTIME...........................97
PORTRAIT.................................104 SUNRISE&SUNSET.................104
Power on.......................................21 Supplied items..............................15
135
Table of Contents
Index
Additional information on this product and

answers to frequently asked questions can
be found at our Customer Support Website.
http://www.sony.net/
136

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Useful Recording Techniques

 2009 Sony Corporation 4-131-472-11(1) US

Searching for information quickly

Useful Recording Techniques

About this Handycam Handbook

Using the Handycam Handbook.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Useful Recording Techniques

Recording sound with more presence (5.1ch surround recording).. . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Useful Recording Techniques

Utilizing recording media

Customizing your camcorder

Useful Recording Techniques

Compensating for Capturing smiles

A child on the stage Flowers in close-up

Useful Recording Techniques

 SPOTLIGHT............................................... 104  PORTRAIT................................................. 104

Fireworks with all its Focusing on the dog

Useful Recording Techniques

The Active Interface Shoe supplies power to

Useful Recording Techniques

Useful Recording Techniques

 VISUAL INDEX button (26, 41)

Useful Recording Techniques

 Playback mode (28, 41)

Useful Recording Techniques

advantage of two MENU screen. (The bottom of turns

Using the HOME MENU Using the OPTION MENU

(HOME) button (OPTION)

Useful Recording Techniques

 When the item is not on the screen, touch  Notes

Useful Recording Techniques

ADD by date AUTO BACK LIGHT p. 80

Useful Recording Techniques

REMOTE CTRL p. 99

 [SOUND/DISP SET] is changed to [SOUND

*1 You can set this item during Easy Handycam

Useful Recording Techniques

is set to ON. Make sure that the GPS switch is

Menu items, LCD panel, viewfinder, and

Discs recorded with high definition

Useful Recording Techniques

country/region. To view your recordings on a

Note on battery pack/AC Adaptor

Note on operating temperatures

Useful Recording Techniques

When the camcorder is connected to a

Note on using the camcorder at high

is recommended that you perform [ EMPTY]

DC IN jack ACCESS lamp

Useful Recording Techniques

battery pack is fully charged.

To remove the battery pack

Useful Recording Techniques

Charging the battery pack abroad

Notes on the battery pack

 The battery pack is damaged.

(Movie): To record movies

Useful Recording Techniques