Sony DSR-300A Operation Manual

3-203-818-12(1)
Digital Camcorder
Operating Instructions
Before operating the unit, please read this manual thoroughly and retain it for future reference.
DSR-300AK/300APK DSR-300AL/300APL
2000 by Sony Corporation
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
VARNING Explosionsfara vid felaktigt batteribyte. Anvnd samma batterityp eller en likvrdig typ som rekommenderas av apparattillverkaren. Kassera anvnt batteri enligt gllande freskrifter.
VAROITUS Paristo voi rjht jos se on virheellisesti asennettu. Vaihda paristo ainoastaan laitevalmistajan suosittelemaan tyyppiin. Hvit kytetty paristo valmistajan ohjeiden mukaisesti.
Owners Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the top. Record these numbers in the spaces provided below. Refer to them whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. Serial No.
LITHIUM BATTERY Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
For customers in the USA This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense. You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment. The shielded interface cable recommended in this manual must be used with this equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.
WARNING Battery may explode if mistreated. Do not recharge, disassemble or dispose of in fire.
Note Keep the lithium battery out of the reach of children. Should the battery be swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.
ADVARSEL! Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosionsfare ved fejlagtig hndtering. Udskiftning m kun ske med batteri af samme fabrikat og type. Levr det brugte batteri tilbage til laverandren.
ADVARSEL Lithiumbatteri - Eksplosjonsfare. Ved utskifting benyttes kun batteri som anbefalt av apparatfabrikanten. Brukt batteri returneres apparatleverandren.
For the customers in Europe This product with the CE marking complies with the EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the European Community. Compliance with this directive implies conformity to the following European standards: EN55103-1: Electromagnetic Interference (Emission) EN55103-2: Electromagnetic Susceptibility (Immunity) This product is intended for use in the following Electromagnetic Environment(s): E1 (residential), E2 (commercial and light industrial), E3 (urban outdoors) and E4 (controlled EMC environment, ex. TV studio).
Table of Contents
Chapter 1
Overview
Product Configurations .................................................... 7 Features ............................................................................. 8 Features on Camera Section ................................................ 8 Features on VCR Section .................................................... 9 Location and Function of Parts ..................................... 12 Front View ......................................................................... 12 Right Side View ................................................................. 13 Left and Upper View ......................................................... 23 Rear and Bottom ................................................................ 25 VCL-718BX Zoom Lens ................................................... 27 DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder ............................................. 29
Chapter 2
Fitting and Connections
IInserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery .............. 31 Fitting the Lens ............................................................... 33 Using Accessories .......................................................... 35 Using the Viewfinder ......................................................... 35 Fitting the 4-inch/5-inch Electronic Viewfinder ................ 36 Fitting to a Tripod .............................................................. 36 Using an Optional Microphone ......................................... 37 Using a Video Light........................................................... 38 Fitting the Shoulder Strap ................................................. 39 Connecting to Audio System ............................................. 40 Using the RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit ......................... 42 Using the Optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit (Equipped With Microphone And Monitor) ................. 43 Using the Optional LC-DS500 Carrying Case .................. 44 Using the Optional LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case ... 44 Connections .................................................................... 45 Connecting a Number of Camcorders ............................... 45 Connecting the DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette Recorder ....................................................................... 46 Connecting an External VCR ............................................ 46
(Continued)
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chapter 2

(Continued)
Power Supply ................................................................... 47 Using a BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A Battery Pack .............................................................................. 47 Using an AC Adaptor ........................................................ 49 Using the Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System ........... 49
Chapter 3
Shooting
Basic Procedure for Shooting........................................ 51 Using DynaLatitude Function ........................................... 52 Recording ........................................................................ 53 Cassettes for the DSR-300A/300AP ................................. 53 Recording on the Internal VCR ......................................... 54 Recording External Video Signals ..................................... 58 Recording on an External VCR using the VTR Connector (26-pin) ....................................................... 58 Recording on an External VCR Using the DV OUT Connector ..................................................................... 59 Back Space Editing ......................................................... 60 Starting Back Space Editing at Any Tape Position ........... 60 Using the Edit Search Function While Back Space Editing .......................................................................... 61 Using the Freeze Mix Function ......................................... 62 Playback Checking Recorded Contents ................... 63 Checking the Recorded Contents Immediately After Shooting Recording Review .................................... 63 Viewing Monochrome Playback in the Viewfinder ........... 63 Viewing Color Playback .................................................... 63 Setting Time Values ......................................................... 64 Setting the User Bit Value ................................................. 65 Setting the Time Code Value ............................................. 66 Synchronization With External Time Code Signals Gen-Lock................................................................. 68 ClipLink Shooting ........................................................... 70 Setting Editing Points While Shooting .............................. 72 Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode ........................... 74
Table of Contents
Chapter 4
Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus
Viewfinder Screen Indications ....................................... 77 Changing the Viewfinder Display ..................................... 77 Viewfinder Normal Indications ....................................... 79 Status Indications .............................................................. 82 Viewfinder Basic Menu ................................................... 83 Basic Menu Operations ..................................................... 83 Contents and Settings of Each Page .................................. 83 Viewfinder Advanced Menu ............................................ 88 Advanced Menu Operations .............................................. 88 Contents and Settings of Each Page .................................. 89 Using SetupLog ............................................................... 95
Chapter 5
Adjustments and Settings
Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu ..................... 97 VCR Menu Operation ...................................................... 98 Basic Operation ................................................................. 98 Menu 101 Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar ..... 99 Menu 201 Checking the Total Operating (Power-On) Hours ............................................................................ 99 Menu 204 Selecting Frame Mode (DF/NDF) for Time Code (for DSR-300A only)................................. 99 Menu 206 Selecting Battery Capacity Indication .......... 100 Menu 207 Setting Standby-On Period ........................... 100 Menu 210 Using Auto-Check Function .......................... 101 Menu 211 Selecting ClipLink Function ......................... 103 Menu 212 Selecting Audio Recording Mode ................. 103 Menu 213 Selecting Audio Reference Level .................. 104 Menu 214 Setting Fade-In/Fade-Out for the Audio Recording Start and Stop Points ................................ 104 Menu 220 Using Setup Add (for DSR-300A Only) ....... 105 Menu 221 Using Setup Remove (for DSR-300A Only) ................................................ 105
(Continued)
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Chapter 5
Adjustments and Settings (Continued)
White Balance Adjustment ........................................... 106 Saving an Appropriate White Balance Value in Memory .................................................................. 106 Using the Preset White Balance Settings ........................ 107 Light Sources and Color Temperature ............................. 108 Using the ATW (Auto Tracing White Balance) Function...................................................................... 108 Black Balance Adjustment ........................................... 109 Shutter Settings ............................................................ 110 Viewfinder Screen Adjustments .................................. 112 Adjusting the Lens ........................................................ 113 Flange Focal Length Adjustment .................................... 113 Iris Adjustments............................................................... 114 Adjusting the Iris Sensitivity ........................................... 115 Macrophotography .......................................................... 115 Settings for Special Cases ........................................... 116 Skin Detail Correction ..................................................... 117 Adjusting Color in the Specified Area ............................ 117
Appendix
Important Notes on Operation ..................................... 119 Characteristics of CCD Sensors ...................................... 120 Cleaning the Video Heads ............................................ 121 Warning System ............................................................ 122 Condensation ................................................................... 123 Troubleshooting ............................................................ 124 Specifications ................................................................ 126 Related Products .............................................................. 128 Chart of Optional Components and Accessories ...... 129 What Is ClipLink? .......................................................... 130 How ClipLink Changes Video Production Techniques ... 130 ClipLink Operation Flow ............................................... 131 Example System Configuration....................................... 131 Data Generated When Shooting ...................................... 132 Glossary ......................................................................... 135
Table of Contents
Chapter
Overview
Product Configurations
The four models, DSR-300AK, DSR-300AL, DSR300APK and DSR-300APL, comprise both NTSC and PAL versions and the components as shown in the figure below. The operation of the basic camcorder is the same in all cases.
DSR-300AK/300APK DSR-300AL/300APL
Microphone
VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor
DXF-801/801CE Viewfindera)
Switch guardb)
VCL-718BX Zoom Lens RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit
Shoulder strap
DSR-300A/300AP Camcorder
Test chart for flange focal length adjustment
Lens mount cap Binding tie Operating instructions
a) Part No. A-8279-329-A (for DSR-300A) Part No. A-8326-150-A (for DSR-300AP) b) The switch guard can be removed. (see page 12)
Chapter 1 Overview
Features
Features on Camera Section
1
New Functions boost operability

Controlling with the RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit You can connect the optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit (equipped with microphone and monitor) to control DSR-300A/300AP while watching the video being shot. (See page 43.) EZ (easy) mode function When there isnt time to check the camcorder settings, simply press the EZ mode button to start the auto adjustment function using standard settings. There is no need to lose a shot for lack of setup time. EZ (easy) focus Press the EZ focus button before shooting to ensure a quick and accurate focus. Dual pixel readout (DPR1)) When the gain is set to either 18 dB or 24 dB, the gain setting can be doubled (6 dB up) without increasing the noise level. Programmable gain The amount of gain relative to the GAIN switch setting (H, M, or L) can be programmed as 3 dB, 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB+DPR, 24 dB, 24 dB+DPR and hyper gain. Hyper gain Hyper gain (36 dB (=30 dB+DPR), or about 60 times greater than 0 dB) can be easily set via one switch setting. This can also be done from remote equipment. Auto tracing white balance (ATW) This function automatically traces the white balance, which constantly changes as lighting conditions change. Auto tracing white balance is especially useful when there is no time to manually adjust the white balance or when shooting moves between indoor and outdoor locations. Total level control system (TLCS) Even if the incoming light exceeds the range in which the standard auto iris can control exposure, the auto gain control (AGC) or auto exposure (AE) backs up to ensure proper exposure.
/2-inch IT type Power HAD CCD
Chapter 1 Overview
The DSR-300A/300AP Digital Camcorder uses 1/2inch IT type Power HAD CCDs. It excels in reduction of smear, sensitivity and picture quality. Smear: 110 dB Sensitivity: F11.0 (at 3200 K, 2000 lux) S/N: 62 dB (DSR-300A) or 60 dB (DSR-300AP)
Sophisticated image processing

TruEye processing makes the following performance features possible. This digital signal processing has brought reproduction of natural colors to the level achieved by the human eye. DynaLatitude Enables detailed adjustment of contrast control in each pixel in accordance with a histogram of luminance signal levels (See page 52). DCC+ (dynamic contrast control plus) Prevents white breakup when shooting a high intensity subject, and also prevents color faults in high intensity subject. Black stretch and compress Enables control of luminance signal levels in black areas without changing the hue. Variety of detail corrections Skin detail function: this function gives a slightly softer appearance to the subjects face. The target skin color can be automatically set. Black halo correction Red/green vertical detail correction: this function performs vertical detail compensation for both red and green signals. Horizontal detail frequency control
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) DPR = Dual Pixel Readout
Chapter 1 Overview
Recording time (REC TIME) display Recording time can be displayed in either of the following modes. Total recording time for all cuts (TTL1)) Total recording time for current cut (DUR2)) Viewfinder super detail Video signals for the viewfinder are mixed with DTL signals to make focusing easier. Dual zebra pattern display Two types of zebra patterns, zebra 1 and zebra 2 can be displayed simultaneously or independently. The zebra 1 can be set to the levels ranging from 70 to 90 IRE on the DSR-300A (or from 70 to 90% on the DSR-300AP) and the zebra 2 indicates the levels of 100 IRE or more for the DSR-300A (or the levels of 100% or more for the DSR-300AP). Color temperature display When reading the white balance, the color temperature is displayed on the viewfinder screen. Switching the color temperatures for the preset white balance You can select the preset white balance at 3200 K or 5600 K by setting the FILTER control. The preset white balance can be switched to other value when the menu setting is changed (See page 84). Video monitor output with text The video signal with text superimposed that is shown in the viewfinder can also be output to an external video monitor. 1-kHz reference signal output Along with a color bar, a 1-kHz reference signal can also be output. Freeze mix function The freeze mix function superimposes any previously recorded still picture on the viewfinder screen to facilitate framing the subject when reshooting the scene. Edit Search Function Pressing the EDIT SEARCH buttons allows the tape to play back in search mode. Set either of two playback speeds.
SetupLogTM function Settings at shooting are recorded onto the tape in real time. This recorded data can then be used to reproduce the same shooting conditions in subsequent shots. It also makes it easier to identify the cause of problems in previous shots. Video light control A video light connector and control switch are equipped. You can turn the light on and off automatically as you start and stop the VCR operation.
Chapter 1 Overview
High-performance viewfinder (DXF-801/ 801CE)

High resolution (600 TV lines of horizontal resolution) DISPLAY switch that can turn the character display on and off Light that can light the lens control elements Large-diameter eye cup for easier viewing and focusing PEAKING potentiometer for vertical and horizontal detail control Two indicators can be used as TALLY indicators Tough die-cast aluminum body
Features on VCR Section

The DSR-300A/300AP uses the DVCAM recording format. The internal signal processing is digitalized to provide more stable output signals and higher reliability.
Compatible with consumer DV

A DV cassette recorded on a DV-format VCR can be played back on the DSR-300A/300AP. (Cassettes recorded in LP mode cannot be played back.)
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) TTL = Total 2) DUR = Duration

Chapter 1 Overview
Features
DVCAM cassettes
The DSR-300A/300AP can use both standard-size and mini-size DVCAM cassettes. According to cassette size, the DSR-300A/300AP automatically corrects reel position. The maximum recording/playback times are 184 minutes for standard size cassettes and 40 minutes for mini cassettes. DVCAM cassettes include a cassette memory. Information about the editing points (ClipLink log data) that is specified while shooting is recorded into this cassette memory.
PCM digital audio

Recording/playback can be set to audio lock mode. You are able to select between two-channel recording (with a sampling frequency of 48 kHz) mode or fourchannel recording (with a sampling frequency of 32 kHz) mode (CH-1 and CH-2 only).
Chapter 1 Overview
Equipped with audio output connectors

During recording or playback, audio output can be monitored via a built-in speaker, a connected earphone or via (two-channel) audio output connectors.
Recordable the external video signals

Fitting the optional DSBK-501/501P Analog Composite Input Board enables the camcorder to record external analog video signals. (See pages 24, 58 and 84.)
Color playback
Connect an external video monitor for color playback (playback adaptor not required). The DSR-300A/ 300AP is equipped with two video monitor connectors: one for composite video output and the other for Svideo output.
ClipLink function
The ClipLink function links all stages from shooting to editing. Once editing points have been set with this function during shooting, they can be used to boost the efficiency of editing work. Creation of clips Using the ClipLink function, the camcorder operator can create clips to be used during editing. The images captured at the Mark IN points are recorded in a compressed format onto the tape as Index Pictures1). In addition, editing point-related data (scene number, time code for Mark IN/OUT points, etc.) is recorded in the cassette memory. ClipLink mode To use the ClipLink function, select the menu setting to set the DSR-300A/300AP into ClipLink mode. There is also a ClipLink continue function that enables clips to be continued even after a break in recording.
VCR data display

The DSR-300A/300AP is able to display the following data on the viewfinder screen. Time values (counter, time code, or user bit values) Audio recording levels Remaining tape time Operation mode of the VCR section Remaining battery capacity ClipLink information
Recording on external VCRs

Betacam or S-VHS VCRs can be connected to the VTR connector (26-pin) on the rear panel.
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) It is necessary to fit the optional DSBK-301A Index Picture Board.
10
Chapter 1
Overview
Equipped with DV OUT connector

The DV OUT connector is i.LINK1) compatible. You can connect Sony equipment with DV input connectors. You can do cut editing and digital dubbing if you connect the DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette Recorder (with the DSBK-140 i.LINK/DV Input/ Output Board fitted) to the DV OUT connector on the camcorder, using an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). (See pages 26, 46, and 59.)
Chapter 1 Overview
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) is a trademark of Sony Corporation and indicates that this product is in agreement with IEEE 1394-1995 specifications and their revisions.
Chapter 1 Overview
11
Location and Function Location and Function of Parts

Front View
of Parts
Chapter 1 Overview
0 Switch guard How to remove the switch guard 1. Detach the two screws (M3). 2. Remove the switch guard, and replace the screws detached in step 1.
1 MIC IN +48 V connector 2 VF connector 3 FILTER control 4 Lens mount
5 SHUTTER switch 6 TAKE button 7 AUDIO LEVEL knob 8 WHT/BLK switch 9 VTR button
1 MIC (microphone) IN +48 V connector (XLR 3pin, female) Connect the supplied microphone or an optional microphone (operable with a 48 V supply). 2 VF (viewfinder) connector (20-pin) This is the connector for the DXF-801/801CE viewfinder. 3 FILTER control Select the color temperature conversion filter appropriate to the lighting conditions. (See page 52.) 4 Lens mount Attach the zoom lens here. 5 SHUTTER switch Use this switch to set the shutter speed, CLS (clear scan), or EVS setting (see page 110). Usually, set this switch to OFF.
6 TAKE button Press this button to specify an editing point (Mark IN/ OUT or Cue point) at the current tape position during shooting. (See page 72.) 7 AUDIO LEVEL knob You can use this knob to manually adjust the channel 1 audio recording level. 8 WHT/BLK (white/black) switch This switch is used for automatic adjustment of the white balance and black balance. (See pages 106 to 109.) 9 VTR button Press this button to start and stop recording on the VCR. 0 Switch guard Prevents mis-operation of the EZ MODE button (4 on page 14), A.IRIS MODE switch (6 on page 14), and ATW button (qf on page 14). When using these buttons and switch, open the guard.
12
Chapter 1
Overview
Right Side View

Front section
Chapter 1 Overview
1 EZ FOCUS button 2 EDIT SEARCH buttons
3 LIGHT switch 4 EZ MODE button and indicator 5 ZEBRA button and indicator 6 A.IRIS MODE switch and indicator 7 MENU switch 8 W.BAL switch 9 MENU dial 0 POWER switch qa OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch qs NG button qd GAIN switch qf ATW button and indicator
1 EZ FOCUS button Press this button to turn the easy focus function on. This opens the iris, to make it easier to focus before shooting. The indication EZ FOCUS appears in the viewfinder while the function is on; to turn it off, press the EZ FOCUS button again. If left on, the function automatically turns off after about ten seconds.
Note
2 EDIT SEARCH buttons You can see the search playback while pressing either of these buttons at recording pause mode to quickly find the next recording start point. Two playback speeds are available. Press either of the buttons to the inner position to increase the speed. 3 LIGHT (video light) switch Controls the video light connected as follows. AUTO: turns on the video light during recording if the power switch on the light is set to on. MAN (manual): allows the power switch on the video light to turn the light on and off.
If the easy focus function is still on when you press the VTR button, it turns off automatically and recording starts about one second later.
Chapter 1
Overview
13
Location and Function of Parts
4 EZ (easy) MODE button and indicator Press this button (EZ mode on) when you want to shoot immediately, with automatic adjustment of the camcorder settings to standard values. (See page 93 for EZ mode setting.) When this function is used, the iris and the white balance are adjusted automatically. (The total level control system functions.) Press this button again to return the camcorder to the previous settings (EZ mode off).
Note
0 POWER switch Powers the camcorder on or off. qa OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ (DynaLatitude/dynamic contrast control plus) switch Use this switch to select the DCC+ function, the DynaLatitude function, or color bar output. Select the CAM/DCC+ position in most cases. CAM/DCC+: This activates the DCC+ function. This prevents color faults when shooting highintensity subjects. CAM/DL: This setting uses the DynaLatitude function, which finely adjusts the contrast of each pixel according to a histogram of luminance signal levels. Access advanced menu page 2 to set the DynaLatitude function ON or OFF. The DynaLatitude effect can be set to any of three levels, Low, STD (standard), and High with basic menu page 2. BARS: This setting displays color bars.
For details of menu operation, see Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Displays and Menus (See page 77).
Chapter 1 Overview
When the RM-M7G Remote Control Unit is connected, the EZ mode function is disabled. 5 ZEBRA button and indicator Depress this button to display a zebra pattern (diagonal stripes) in the viewfinder. Depending on the zebra setting in advanced menu page 4 (see page 91), the zebra 1 for video levels between 70 to 90 IRE (or 70 to 90%) and the zebra 2 for video levels 100 IRE or more (or 100% or more) can be displayed independently or simultaneously. 6 A.IRIS (auto iris) MODE switch and indicator When you use the auto iris function (by setting the iris selector on the lens to A), set this switch to suit the shooting conditions. Selecting BACK L gives more light to back-lit subjects, and selecting SPOT L adjusts for high contrast in spot-lit subjects. For normal shooting, set this switch to STD. 7 MENU switch When you press this switch to the ON position, the basic menu is displayed. Keep pressing it to the ON position to cycle through the various menu displays. When you press the switch to the STATUS position, the camcorders status (of current settings) is displayed. 8 W. BAL (white balance) switch This selects the white balance setting from the preset value, the value in memory A or the value in memory B. (See page 107.) You can select the preset white balance at 3200 K or 5600 K using the FILTER control (3 on page 12). You can change the preset color temperature on basic menu page 2. (See page 84.) 9 MENU dial Use this dial to change menu pages or settings.
qs NG button When using the ClipLink function during shooting, you can designate a particular scene as NG (No Good) by pressing this button before shooting the next scene. Press the button again to cancel the NG setting. qd GAIN switch This selects one of the three gain settings, high, medium or low. You can choose the gain values assigned to the H, M and L settings from values from 3 dB to 24 dB + DPR and hyper gain. (See page 90.) The factory default selections are 18 dB (H), 9 dB (M) and 0 dB (L).
Note
When the HYPER GAIN switch (7 on page 22) is in the ON position, the GAIN switch has no effect. qf ATW (auto tracing white balance) button and indicator Press this button, turning the indicator on, when you to automatically adjust the white balance to follow changes in the lighting conditions. (See page 108.)
14
Chapter 1
Overview
Rear section
1 EJECT button
Chapter 1 Overview
EJECT
STOP REW PLAY F FWD
2 Tape transport buttons and indicators
3 EARPHONE connector 4 WARNING indicator 5 LIGHT switch 6 DISPLAY switch
7 AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs 8 Display window 9 RESET/(MENU SET) button 0 Speaker qa ALARM knob qs MONITOR knob
1 EJECT Z button Press to open the cassette holder (1 on page 24) when the camcorder is powered. 2 Tape transport buttons and indicators These buttons transport the tape as shown below.
Note
3 EARPHONE connector (mini-jack) Connect an earphone or headphones. This outputs the same sound that would be output to the speaker (0 on page 18), but mutes the speaker. 4 WARNING indicator This lights or blinks when an abnormality occurs.
For details, see Warning System on page 122.
During recording, none of these buttons operates.

Buttons REW m Operation Rewinds the tape. The indicator lights while the tape is being rewound. Press while the tape is being rewound or during playback to view reverse search playback. Fast forwards the tape. The indicator lights while the tape is being fast forwarded. Press while the tape is being fast forwarded or during playback to view forward search playback. Plays back the recorded video. The indicator lights during playback. Stops the tape.
5 LIGHT switch This switches the display window (8 on page 16) light on or off. 6 DISPLAY switch Switches time value indication shown in the display window (8 on page 16). COUNTER: Shows the tape transport time in HH:MM:SS (hours, minutes and seconds). TC: Shows the time code value. U-BIT: Shows the user bit data in the time code.
F FWD M
PLAY N STOP x
Chapter 1
Overview
15
7 AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) (audio recording level adjustments for channels 1 and 2) knobs When the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches (4 on page 20) are set to MAN, these knobs adjust the audio levels being recorded on channels 1 and 2.
Chapter 1 Overview
The audio levels are indicated in the display window 8. For details, see 8 Display window.
8 Display window Shows the following items. Use the LIGHT switch (5 on page 15) to light up the display window.
A Playback indication B DATE indication C Non-drop frame indication (DSR-300A only) D External synchronization lock indication E Hold indication F Audio level indicators
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

S Time value indication R Clip remaining indication Q Tape remaining indication P Battery capacity indication O Service indication
H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER dB OVER 0 -12 -20
G ClipLink log data indication H ClipLink continue indication
CL CONT IP CLIP TAPE DVCAM BATT E F Li DIAG RF SERVO HUMID SLACK
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
CL CONT IP DVCAM Li
I IP indication a) J Lithium backup battery warning
M Audio mode indications K DVCAM indication N Warning indications L Cassette memory indication
a) When the optional DSBK-301A is fitted
Indications in the display window Indication A Playback indication B DATE indication C Non drop-frame indication (DSR300A only) D External synchronization indication E Hold indication F Audio level indicators G ClipLink log data indication H ClipLink continue indication I IP (Index Picture) indication Description Appears during playback, fast forward or rewind with the time data display showing a time code or user bit value. Appears when the date or time is displayed in the time value indication area S. Appears when non-drop frame mode is selected. Appears when the internal time code generator is locked to an external signal input to the TC IN connector (3 on page 24). Appears when the internal time code generator is stopped. These show the audio recording or playback levels of channel 1 and channel 2. Appears when using a cassette with cassette memory containing ClipLink log data. Appears when back space editing using ClipLink function is possible. Appears when the ClipLink function is set to on in the VCR menu and Index Picture recording is allowed. (The optional DSBK-301A is required.)
(Continued)
16
Chapter 1
Overview
Indications in the display window (continued) Indication J Lithium backup battery warning Description Appears when the voltage of the internal lithium backup battery (CR2032) is low. If this indication appears, replace the lithium backup battery immediately.
Chapter 1 Overview
For further information about replacing lithium battery, see Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery (page 31).
K DVCAM indication L Cassette memory indication M Audio mode indications Disappears when the cassette being played back is not for DVCAM format. Appears when using a cassette with cassette memory. These show audio recording/playback mode. Fs32k: 4-channel mode (32kHz sampling frequency) Fs48k: 2-channel mode (48kHz sampling frequency)
For further information about selecting audio recording mode, see Selecting Audio Recording Mode Menu 212 (page 103).
N Warning indications Include the following. RF: Appears when the video heads are clogged, or when there is a fault in the recording system. SERVO: Appears when the servo lock is not functioning. HUMID: Appears when there is condensation on the drum. SLACK: Appears when there is a tape winding fault.
For measures against warning indications, see Warning System (page 122).
O Service indication P Battery capacity indication Appears during maintenance on VCR menu operations (page 97). It does not appear during normal operation. This indicates the battery capacity and voltage as shown below. Change menu setting for the battery you are using.
For menu settings, see Selecting Battery Capacity Indication Menu 206 (page 100).
Battery voltage Indication BATT E[xxxxxx]F BATT E[xxxxx ]F BATT E[xxxxp]F BATT E[xxx p]F BATT E[xxpp]F BATT E[xxpp]F (blinking)
1)
BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/ NP-1B/BP-90A L90/L90A 15.0 V or more 14.0 to 15.0 V 13.0 to 14.0 V 12.0 to 13.0 V 11.3 to 12.0 V 11.25 to 11.3 V 11.0 to 11.25 V 11.0 V or less 12.5 V or more 12.0 to 12.5 V 11.75 to 12.0 V 11.5 to 11.75 V 11.3 to 11.5 V 11.25 to 11.3 V 11.0 to 11.25 V 11.0 V or less
BATT E[x pp]F (blinking) BATT E[ppp]F (blinking)
1)Replace the battery pack when this indication appears.
Chapter 1
Overview
17
Indications in the display window (continued) Indication Q Tape remaining indication Description During recording or pause mode, this indication shows the remaining tape time as shown below. It is not displayed when no cassette is loaded. Indication TAPExxxxxxx TAPExxxxxx TAPExxxxx TAPExxxx TAPExxx TAPExx TAPEx TAPEx (blinking) TAPE (blinking) R Clip remaining indication Indication CLIPxxxxxx CLIPxxxxx CLIPxxxx CLIPxxx CLIPxx CLIPx CLIPx (blinking) CLIP CLIP (blinking) 2)
2)
Tape time remaining 30 minutes or more 25 to 30 minutes 20 to 25 minutes 15 to 20 minutes 10 to 15 minutes 5 to 10 minutes 2 to 5 minutes 0 to 2 minutes End of tape Clip shots 51 or more 41 to 50 31 to 40 21 to 30 11 to 20 1 to 10 1 to 3 Cannot record Cannot record Cue point 101 points or more 81 to 100 points 61 to 80 points 41 to 60 points 21 to 40 points 1 to 20 points 1 to 6 points
Chapter 1 Overview
This shows how many clip shots or Cue points can be recorded1).
1) The optional DSBK-301A is required for Index Picture recording. 2) When back space editing using ClipLink function is possible (when CONT is displayed)
S Time value indication
Depending on the DISPLAY switch (6 on page 15) setting, this shows a counter value, time code value or user bit value. Press the MENU button (1 on page 19) to display the VCR menu.
9 RESET/(MENU SET) (counter reset/VCR menu) button Resets the time value shown in the display window. This button operates differently depending on settings of the DISPLAY switch (6 on page 15) and the TC mode switch 1 (9 on page 20) and 2 (8 on page 20).
Switch setting DISPLAY: COUNTER DISPLAY: TC TC mode switch 1: PRESET TC mode switch 2: SET DISPLAY: U-BIT TC mode switch 1: PRESET TC mode switch 2: SET RESET button operation Resets counter value to 0:00:00. Resets time code to 00:00:00:00. Resets user bit a) to 00 00 00 00.
Also, this button is used to change menu settings.

For details on the VCR menu, see Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu (page 97).
0 Speaker Outputs the recorded or playback audio. When a warning indicator appears in the viewfinder or display window, the speaker sounds a warning tone. The speaker is muted (does not output a warning tone) when an earphone is connected to the EARPHONE connector (3 on page 15).
For details on the warning tone, see Warning System (page 122).
a) Bits of time code recorded on tape, in which users can record necessary information.
18
Chapter 1
Overview
qa ALARM (alarm tone volume adjustment) knob Controls the volume of the warning tone that is output via the speaker (0 on page 18) or earphone (3 on page 15). Turning this knob to the minimum setting mutes the alarm tone.
qs MONITOR (monitor volume adjustment) knob Controls the volume of the sound other than the warning tone that is output via the speaker (0 on page 18) or earphone (3 on page 15). Turning this knob to the minimum setting mutes the audio output.
Chapter 1 Overview
Operation panel under the cover

Right side
1 MENU button 2 ADVANCE button 3 SHIFT button
REC TIME SKIN DTL

TTL DUR OFF
ON COMPONENT. VBS OFF Y/C
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER
PARALLEL INT ONLY EXT ONLY
PRESET REGEN DATE/TIME
F-RUN SET R-RUN MONITOR OUT CHARACTER

ON OFF
VJ MIC WIRELESS REAR
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
4 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches 5 AUDIO IN (CH-1/ CH-2) switches
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
6 Lithium battery compartment 7 MONITOR OUT CHARACTER switch 8 TC mode switch 2 9 TC mode switch 1 0 ClipLink CONTINUE button qa MONITOR SELECT switch
1 MENU button Press this button to display the VCR menu in the display window.
For details about the VCR menu, see Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu (page 97).
setting, press this button to increment the digit that has been selected with the SHIFT button (3 on page 20). In other case, keep pressing this button to show the clip remaining indication instead of time value. (Example: CLIP 045)
For time code and user bit settings, see page 64.
2 ADVANCE button When setting time code and user bit values, or at menu
On how to use the ADVANCE button for menu settings, see Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu (page 97).
Chapter 1 Overview
19
3 SHIFT button When setting time code and user bit values, or at menu setting, keep pressing this button to select a digit. The selected digit will start blinking. In other case, keep pressing this button to show the date (when the DISPLAY switch (6 on page 15) is set to U-BIT) and time (when the DISPLAY switch is set to TC) instead of time value.
For time code and user bit settings, see page 64. On how to use the SHIFT button for menu settings, see Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu (page 97).
Note
Set this switch ON when using the freeze mix function. 8 TC (time code) mode switch 2 Sets the mode for advancing time code values when the TC mode switch 1 9 has been set to PRESET. F-RUN: The time code advances continuously whether or not the camcorder is recording. Use this setting to align the time code value with real time. SET: Use this setting to set the time code or user bit value. R-RUN: The time code value advances only during recording. Use this setting to have consecutive recordings on the tape.
Note for the DSR-300A
Chapter 1 Overview
4 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) (audio recording level adjustments manual/auto selection for channels 1 and 2) switches These select the audio recording level adjustment method. AUTO: Use the AGC (automatic gain control) circuit to automatically adjust the audio level. MAN: Enables users to manually adjust the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs (7 on page 16) for each channel. Select AUTO if excess input levels are likely to occur. 5 AUDIO IN (CH-1/CH-2) (audio input selection for channels 1 and 2) switches These select the input signals to channels 1 and 2. FRONT: Signals from the microphone connected to the MIC IN +48 V connector. VJ MIC: Signals from the remote control unit with microphone connected to the REMOTE connector 2 WIRELESS: Signals from the WRR-855A synthesized tuner connected to the WRR connector via the CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor. REAR: Signals from a microphone or external equipment connected to the AUDIO IN (CH-1/ CH-2) connectors. 6 Lithium battery compartment Insert the supplied CR2032 Lithium Battery.
On how to fit the lithium battery, see page 31.
There are two time code frame modes: drop-frame (DF) mode and non drop-frame (NDF) mode. This product is shipped with drop-frame mode selected.
For details on switching between drop-frame mode and non drop-frame mode, see Selecting Frame Mode (DF/NDF) for Time Code (for DSR-300A only) Menu 204 (page 99). For details on drop-frame mode and non drop-frame mode, see Drop-frame mode (for DSR-300A only) on page 67.
9 TC (time code) mode switch 1 Selects between resetting the time code value or continuing from the time code value at the end of the previous recording. PRESET: This starts recording time code values on the tape from the currently set value. REGEN: During back space editing, this reads the tapes current time code value and sets the time code to record starting from that value. The time code value is advanced in R-RUN mode regardless of the setting on TC mode switch 2 8. DATE/TIME: This synchronizes the time code to the real time clock set in the VCR menu (see page 99). In this case the time code of the DSR-300A is recorded in DF (drop-frame mode).
Note
7 MONITOR OUT (monitor output) CHARACTER switch Set ON to superimpose text information on the monitor output.
20
Chapter 1
Overview
If the ClipLink function is set to on (meaning ClipLink shooting is allowed) in menu 211 and CONT is displayed in the display window, regardless of the setting of this switch, the time code generator automatically enters the REGEN mode at recording. (When not performing ClipLink shooting, set the ClipLink function to oFF (see page 70)).
0 ClipLink CONTINUE button When restarting ClipLink shooting, press this button to add the new clip at the end of the recorded clips.
Note
When restart recording without pressing this button, the pre-recorded ClipLink log data and Index Pictures are deleted.
For details , see ClipLink Shooting (page 70).
qa MONITOR SELECT (audio monitor selection) switch Selects audio output via the speaker (0 on page 18) or earphone. CH-1: Channel 1 audio MIX: Mixed audio (channels 1 and 2) CH-2: Channel 2 audio EXT: The sound selected by an external VCR connected to the VTR connector (0 on page 26)
Chapter 1 Overview
Left side
1 REC TIME switch 2 SKIN DTL switch 3 EXT VTR OUTPUT switch
REC TIME SKIN DTL

TTL DUR OFF
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
4 VTR TRIGGER switch 5 FRONT MIC LOW CUT switch 6 MATRIX switch 7 HYPER GAIN switch 8 SKIN DTL SET button 9 TTL RESET button
1 REC (recording) TIME switch Selects the recording time indication in the viewfinder. TTL (TOTAL): Displays the total recording time. The total recording time is not reset even when you stop the VCR and power off the camcorder, for example, to replace the battery pack. DUR (DURATION): Displays the recording time of the current cut.
OFF: Switches off the recording time display. If, however, in advanced menu 6 you set the time code display item (TC IND) to ON (see page 92), then the VCR time data (time code, counter, or user bit value) is displayed.
Chapter 1
Overview
21
Note
The recording time displayed when this switch is set to TTL or DUR is obtained by counting the duration of the internal reference signal input to the camcorder. The value may not agree exactly with the value derived from the time code values. Furthermore, the value displayed may not be correct when another manufactures VCR is connected to the camcorder. 2 SKIN DTL (skin detail) switch Set this switch to ON to use the skin detail correction function.
For details, see Skin Detail Correction (page 117).
7 HYPER GAIN switch Setting this switch to ON increases the gain by a factor of about 60 with respect to 0 dB (a 30 dB increase by electronic amplification and a 6 dB increase for DPR, bringing about a total gain increase of 36 dB). When this switch is in the ON position, the indication HYPER appears in the viewfinder, and the GAIN UP indicator in the viewfinder also lights. When finished shooting, return this switch to OFF position. The HYPER indication disappears and the GAIN UP indicator goes out.
Note
Chapter 1 Overview
Increasing the gain with this switch reduces the horizontal resolution by approx. 50%. 8 SKIN DTL (skin detail ) SET button Press this button with the SKIN DTL switch 2 to display the area detect cursor on viewfinder screen. Place the cursor on the target and press this button to perform skin detail correction.
For details, see Skin Detail Correction (page 117).
3 EXT VTR OUTPUT switch Depending on the external VCR connected to the VTR connector (0 on page 26), this switches the video signal output to the VCR. COMPONENT, VBS: Component/composite video signal Y/C: S-video signal 4 VTR TRIGGER switch Sets the function of the VTR button on the camcorder or lens when a VCR is connected to the VTR connector (0 on page 26). PARALLEL: Operates both internal and external VCRs. INT ONLY: Operates the internal VCR only. External VCR operation is performed locally. EXT ONLY: Operates the external VCR only. 5 FRONT MIC LOW CUT switch Set this switch to ON to insert a high-pass filter in the microphone circuit, reducing wind noise. Normally leave the switch in the OFF position. 6 MATRIX switch Selects the color matrix setting to change the picture color adjustment. H.SAT: Colors are emphasized. FL: Colors appear normal even when shooting under fluorescent lighting. STD: The color matrix in standard setting is used. Normally leave the switch in this position.
9 TTL (total) RESET button Pressing this button resets the total recording time (TTL selection) to 0.
22
Chapter 1
Overview
Left and Upper View

Front section
Chapter 1 Overview
1 Shoulder strap fitting 2 Attachment shoe for large viewfinder 3 Accessory fitting shoe and screw hole 4 Viewfinder left-to-right positioning ring 5 Viewfinder fitting shoe 6 REMOTE connector 1 7 Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob 8 Fitting for optional microphone holder 9 Video light connector
0 LENS connector qa VIDEO OUT connector qs REMOTE connector 2
1 Shoulder strap fitting To use the supplied shoulder strap, fix one end here and the other end to the right side. (See page 39.) 2 Attachment shoe for large viewfinder This allows you to attach the optional electronic viewfinder. (See page 36.) 3 Accessory fitting shoe and screw hole Attach optional video lights or other accessories. 4 Viewfinder left-to-right positioning ring Loosen this ring to adjust the left-to-right position of the viewfinder. (See page 35.) 5 Viewfinder fitting shoe Fix the DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder.
6 REMOTE connector 1 (mini-jack) Connect the RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit to enable remote operation of the ClipLink function.
Note
The RM-81 cannot be connected. If you connect the optional cable (Sony part number: 1-790-779-11) to this connector, you can control the zoom using the optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit (equipped with microphone and monitor), even when using the conventional lens.
For details, consult your Sony dealer.
7 Viewfinder front-to-back position locking knob Loosen this knob to adjust the front-to-back position of the viewfinder. (See page 35.)
Chapter 1
Overview
23
8 Fitting for optional microphone holder You can fit an optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder here. (See page 37.) 9 Video light connector A video light with a maximum power consumption of 30 W such as the Anton Bauer Ultralight 2 or equivalent can be connected. 0 LENS connector (12-pin) If you use a lens with cable, connect the lens cable. qa VIDEO OUT connector (BNC) This outputs the video signal captured by the camcorder.
Chapter 1 Overview
qs REMOTE connector 2 (10-pin) Connect the optional RM-M7G Remote Control Unit to this connector. Set the CAMERA SELECT switch on the bottom of RM-M7G to 1. You can also connect the RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit (equipped with microphone and monitor.)
Notes
EZ mode cannot be used if the RM-M7G is connected to the camcorder. Be sure to turn off the power of the camcorder before connecting the RM-M7G/VJ1. Be sure to turn off the power of the camcorder before disconnecting the equipment connected to this connector. Otherwise, the camcorder will not work properly.
Rear section
1 Cassette holder 2 GEN LOCK IN/VIDEO IN connector a)
3 TC IN connector
4 TC OUT connector
5 S VIDEO OUT connector
6 MONITOR OUT connector 7 AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2 connectors a) When the optional DSBK-501/501P is fitted
1 Cassette holder Power the camcorder and press the EJECT button to open the lid. Insert the cassette and close the lid by pressing the indication PUSH . 2 GEN LOCK IN (gen lock video input)/VIDEO IN (video input) connector (BNC) GEN LOCK IN: When synchronizing the camcorder to an external signal, input a reference videos ignal (VBS or BS). (See page 84.)
VIDEO IN: When the optional DSBK-501/501P Analog Composite Input Board is fitted to the camcorder, you can input the analog video signals (VBS) to this connector. 3 TC IN (time code input) connector (BNC) Input an external signal for synchronizing the built-in time code generator. Use an SMPTE (DSR-300A) or EBU (DSR-300AP) time code signal.
24
Chapter 1
Overview
Note
Use a jitterless LTC signal. Using an LTC signal reproduced by other equipment may cause the camcorder to malfunction. 4 TC OUT (time code output) connector (BNC) This outputs time code signals from the built-in time code generator. When a time code signal is input to the TC IN connector (3 on page 24), this output signal is synchronized to it.
For details about time code, see Setting Time Values on page 64.
6 MONITOR OUT (output) connector Outputs the image being shot or played back as composite video signals. Connect to the video input connector on an external VCR or video monitor.
Chapter 1 Overview
Note
The output signal from this connector may discontinue when switching the operation between recording and playback. Do not use as a reference signal for external equipment. 7 AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2 (audio output channel 1 and 2) connectors (phono jacks) These output the sound being recorded or played back. Connect to a stereo amplifier or video monitors audio input connectors.
5 S VIDEO OUT (S-video output) connector (DIN 4-pin) This outputs the image being shot or played back as Svideo signals. Connect to the S-video input connector on an external VCR or video monitor.
Rear and Bottom

1 TALLY indicator
2 TALLY switch
3 Battery attachment interface
6 WRR connector 4 DC IN connector 5 AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connectors and input selection switches 7 Cable clamp 8 DV OUT connector
9 DC OUT connector 0 VTR connector qa BREAKER button
1 TALLY (back tally) indicator (red) This indicator lights during recording. It will not light if the TALLY switch 2 is set to OFF. This indicator also blinks to indicate warnings in the same manner as the REC/TALLY indicator in the viewfinder.
2 TALLY switch Set this switch to ON to activate the TALLY indicator 1 function.
For details, see Warning System on page 122.
Chapter 1 Overview
25
3 Battery attachment interface Attach a battery pack or an AC-DN1 AC Adaptor. When using the WRR-855A synthesized tuner (for wireless microphones), attach the CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor here.
Chapter 1 Overview
i.LINK cable (DV connectin cable)
For information about fitting a battery pack or an AC adaptor, see Power Supply (page 47). For information about attaching a synthesized tuner, see Connecting to Audio System (page 40).
Binding tie
4 DC IN (DC power input) connector (XLR 4-pin, male) To use the camcorder with an AC power supply connect an optional AC-550/550CE or CMA-8A/ 8ACE AC Adaptor. 5 AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 (audio input channel 1 and 2) connectors (XLR 3-pin, female) and input selection switches
8 DV OUT connector (6-pin) Connect to the DV input connector of an external VCR via an i.LINK cable.
Notes
Connect a microphone or other external audio equipment. Set the input selection switches as shown below according to the microphone or equipment.
MIC+48V ON (right position): For connecting to a 48-V microphone
Note
This connector will not work as an input connector. When external equipment, such as a VCR, is connected to this connector, the ClipLink function and the function for audio fade-in/fade-out during recording do not work. 9 DC OUT (DC power output) connector (4-pin, female) This connector supplies power for a WRR-810A/860A UHF Portable Tuner. 0 VTR connector (26-pin, male) Connect an external VCR.
Notes
If this position is selected for a microphone other than 48-V microphone, the microphone may be damaged. MIC (center position): For connecting any microphone other than 48-V microphone LINE (left position): For connecting an external audio signal source such as a stereo amplifier. 6 WRR (synthesized tuner) connector (7-pin) Insert the WRR-855A synthesized tuner into the CAWR855 Camera Adaptor and connect the CA-WR855 here.
For information about attaching a synthesized tuner, see Connecting to Audio System (page 40)
This connector always outputs the signals from the camera. It is impossible to output the playback video of the internal VCR. A camera control unit (CCU) cannot be connected to this connector. The image size on the viewfinder or on the screen of the RM-VJ1 does not switch automatically, even if the aspect ratio (16:9/4:3) of the return signal, input from an external VCR, is switched. qa BREAKER (breaker reset) button If an excessive current flows in the internal circuits, the internal circuit breaker shuts off the power supply. Push this button after eliminating the cause of the excessive current.
7 Cable clamp Fasten an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) to the clamp using the supplied binding tie so that the plug is not pulled out from the DV OUT connector 8.
26
Chapter 1
Overview
VCL-718BX Zoom Lens

When using a lens other than VCL-718X, see page 34 and page 114 (Designating the lens).
Chapter 1 Overview
1 Iris ring
4 M button
2 Zoom ring
5 F.B adjustment ring and F.B fixing knob 6 MACRO ring
3 Focus ring 7 ZOOM selector 8 Zoom remote control connector
Lens hood
qa Instant automatic iris adjustment button 9 RET button qs IRIS selector qd Motorized zoom lever 0 VTR button
1 Iris ring For manual iris control, set the IRIS selector qs to the M position, and turn this ring. 2 Zoom ring For direct manual zoom control, set the ZOOM selector 7 to the MANU. position, and turn this ring. 3 Focus ring Turn this ring to focus the lens on the subject. 4 M (close-up) button For close-up work, turn the MACRO ring 6 while holding this button down. (See page 115.)
5 F.B (flange focal length) adjustment ring and F.B (flange focal length) fixing knob F.B adjustment ring : To adjust the flange focal length, loosen the F.B fixing knob, then turn the ring. (See page 113.) F.B fixing knob: Fixes the F.B adjustment ring. 6 MACRO (close-up) ring For close-up, turn this ring while holding the M button down. (See page 115.) 7 ZOOM selector This selects the mode of zoom operation. SERVO: power zoom MANU. (manual): manual zoom
Chapter 1 Overview
27
8 Zoom remote control connector (8-pin) Connect the optional LO-26 Lens Remote Control Unit for remote control of zooming. 9 RET (return) button This allows you to check the video signal. When the internal VCR is in recording pause mode, press this button to review the last few seconds of the recording in the viewfinder (recording review). When an external VCR is connected, pressing this button connects the E-E video signal1) from the external VCR to the viewfinder while the internal VCR is recording or no tape is inserted in the internal VCR.
For details, see Playback Checking Recorded Contents (page 63).
Chapter 1 Overview
0 VTR button This button starts and stops recording on the VCR. Press it once to start recording, and once more to stop. qa Instant automatic iris adjustment button While using manual iris control, press this button to switch temporarily to automatic iris control setting. Automatic control is maintained as long as you hold the button down. qs IRIS selector This selects the mode of iris operation. (See page 114.) A (automatic): automatic iris M (manual): manual iris qd Motorized zoom lever Use this to carry out a power zoom. Pressing the lever harder increases the zoom speed. W end: zoom toward wide angle T end: zoom toward telephoto
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) E-E video signal: electric-to-electric video signal. This is an input video signal which has passed through internal electrical circuits, but which has not been converted to a magnetic signal.
28
Chapter 1
Overview
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder
Note
You can switch the scan size of the DXF-801/801CE in accordance with the aspect ratio selected on the
camera or camcorder. However, it operates in 4:3 mode when used on the DSR-300A/300AP.
Chapter 1 Overview
4 TAKE/TALLY indicator
TALLY TAKE REC BATT
5 BATT indicator 6 REC/TALLY indicators 1 Eyepiece focusing knob

SHUTTER GAIN UP
7 GAIN UP indicator 8 SHUTTER indicator
2 Stopper Microphone holding screw Microphone holder Microphone Eye cup 9 PEAKING control 0 CONTRAST control qa Tally lamp qs BRIGHT control qd Eyepiece release catch qf TALLY switch qg DISPLAY switch 3 LIGHT switch and light
HIGH LOW
OFF
qh Viewfinder connector
LIGHT
1 Eyepiece focusing knob Turn this to adjust the viewfinder focus to match your eyesight. (See page 112.) 2 Stopper Lift up when detaching the viewfinder (See page 35). 3 LIGHT switch and light The light lights the lens and the switch controls the light as follows. HIGH/LOW: Turn the light on and control the brightness. OFF: Turns the light off.
4 TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange) When using the ClipLink function while shooting, this indicator lights when the TAKE button (6 on page 12) has been pressed to set a Mark IN point and goes out when a Mark OUT point is set. 5 BATT (battery) indicator (red) This lights when the battery capacity is low.
Chapter 1
Overview
29
6 REC/TALLY (recording/tally) indicators (red) This flashes from the time when you press the VTR button (9 on page 12 and 0 on page 28) on the lens or camcorder until recording starts, then stays on continuously during recording. This is also used to indicate a fault. (See page 122.) The lower indicator can be disabled by menu setting. (See page 91.) 7 GAIN UP indicator (orange) This lights when the gain is 3 dB or more. 8 SHUTTER indicator (red) This lights when the SHUTTER switch (5 on page 12) is in the ON position. (If the EVS is selected, the indicator will not light.) 9 PEAKING control This adjusts the outline intensity of the viewfinder image. (See page 112.) 0 CONTRAST control This adjusts the contrast of the viewfinder image. (See page 112.) qa Tally lamp When the TALLY switch qf is in the ON position, this operates in the same way as the REC/TALLY indicators 6. qs BRIGHT (brightness) control This adjusts the brightness of the viewfinder image. (See page 112.) qd Eyepiece release catch To view the viewfinder screen directly, press this catch, and hinge up the eyepiece. qf TALLY switch Set this switch to the ON position to use the tally lamp qa. qg DISPLAY switch Set this switch to OFF when you want to remove the character data from the viewfinder and the monitor connected to the MONITOR OUT connector. However, items which are set to OFF in advanced menu page 5 and page 6 are not displayed even when this switch is set to ON. qh Viewfinder connector (20-pin) Connect this to the VF connector (2 on page 12).
Chapter 1 Overview
30
Chapter 1
Overview
Chapter
Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery

The camcorder uses a lithium battery to retain stored data. When using the camcorder for the first time, be sure to insert the supplied lithium battery (CR2032). The camcorder will not operate correctly without this lithium battery.
Inserting or replacing the lithium battery

Notes
Lifetime of the lithium battery

When the lithium batterys voltage falls, the lithium backup battery warning Li appears in the display window. If this warning appears, replace the lithium battery (CR2032) within three or four days. The lithium battery has an average service life of about two years, however operation in ClipLink mode will shorten the lifetime until about one year (when the DSBK-301A is fitted).
Carefully read the instructions for inserting and replacing the lithium battery. Lithium batteries can explode if misused. Use only CR2032 Lithium Batteries. Other types of lithium batteries may come loose when the camcorder is moved. If you have difficulty finding CR2032 Lithium Batteries, contact your Sony dealer.
Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections
31
Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery
1 2
Turn the POWER switch on. Press down the catch at the top of the battery cover and open the cover.
2
Catch Press and pull forward.
LI LITHIUM BATT
Battery cover
1 POWER switch 3 Take out the lithium battery.
Press down and pull out toward you.
Reverse step 3 to insert a replacement lithium battery. Make sure that the + symbol on the battery is facing you. Close the battery cover.
32
Chapter 2
Fitting the Lens

In the case of the DSR-300AK/300APK model, the lens is already fitted. In other cases, use the following procedure to fit the lens.
Note
Be sure to turn off the power before fitting the lens.
Remove the retaining rubber which prevents the lens mount from coming loose, then raise the lens fixing lever, and remove the lens mount cap.
Retaining rubber
Lens mount cap
Lens fixing lever
With the lens fixing lever turned fully counterclockwise, push in the lens, aligning the projection on the lens with the cutout on the camcorder.
Align and push in.
Supporting the lens, turn the lens fixing lever fully clockwise. Replace the retaining rubber on the lens mount.
Note
When removing the lens, rotate the lens fixing lever with your finger on the curved part of the lever. You could injure your finger if you rotate the fixing lever with your finger on the tip of the lever.
33
Fitting the Lens
If using a 1/2 lens other than the VCL-718BX If the connector on the lens attachment section is a 14pin connector (VCL-714BXA and other lenses), then the lens may be operated in the same way as the VCL718BX. If the lens has a 7-pin connector, then the following limitations apply. The lens iris f. value is not displayed in the viewfinder. Iris operation may be slow in auto iris mode, and hunting may occur. If this happens, you should adjust the iris sensitivity (see page 115). If using a lens with a 6-pin connector This camcorder head has a 12-pin LENS connector. If the lens cable has a 6-pin connector, fit an adaptor cable: LO-612 (manufactured by Canon) or ECF-124 (manufactured by Fujinon) or equivalent. When using a lens with a 6-pin connector, the following limitations apply. The lens iris f. value is not displayed in the viewfinder. Iris operation may be slow in auto iris mode, and hunting may occur. If this happens, you should adjust the iris sensitivity (see page 115). If using a 2/3 lens Fit the lens using the optional LO-32BMT 2/3 lens adapter.
Fitting optional filters

Loosen the lens hood fixing screw to remove the lens hood, then attach the filter.
Remove lens hood
Filter (optional)
Lens hood fixing screw
34
Chapter 2
Using Accessories
Using the Viewfinder
Removing the Viewfinder
Remove any microphone from the viewfinder before beginning.
Pull the viewfinder connector out of the VF connector on the front.
VF connector
Loosen the viewfinder left-toright position fixing ring, then pulling up the retaining catch, slide the viewfinder out.
Retaining catch Viewfinder left-to-right position fixing ring
To fit the viewfinder Reverse the removal procedure. (You need not hold the viewfinder stopper up.) Left eye adaptor By fitting a left eye adaptor, you can use the camcorder with your left eye to the viewfinder.
Note
Adjusting the viewfinder position

To adjust the viewfinder left-to-right position, loosen the left-to-right fixing ring, and to adjust the front-toback position loosen the front-to-back position locking knob.
Viewfinder left-to-right position fixing ring
You cannot stow the camcorder attached with a left eye adaptor in the LC-DS500 Carrying Case.
Viewfinger front-to-back position locking knob
35
Using Accessories
Fitting the 4-inch/5-inch Electronic Viewfinder

You can fit the optional DXF-51/51CE (5-inch)/DXF41/41CE (4-inch) Electronic Viewfinder. To fit, the following parts are required. Required parts to fit
Name Accessory Shoe Kit Adaptor cable (8-pin y 20-pin) (DXF-41/41CE only)
VF Cable
Part No. A-8274-968-B 1-783-665-11
Shoe a) Stopper screw a)
Fixing ring Guide 8-pin
For details, contact your Sony dealer.
20-pin Adaptor cable (8-pin y 20-pin)
How to fit Remove the cover of the grip and attach the shoe and stopper screw (accessory shoe kit).
a) Supplied with the Accessory Shoe Kit
Fitting to a Tripod
First fit the VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor to the tripod, then mount the camcorder on the tripod adaptor.
Removal
Hold down the red button and pull the lever in the direction of the arrow.
VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor Slide the camcorder forward along the slot, until it clicks firmly into place. Tripod
Note
After removing the camcorder, if the tripod adaptor pin has not returned to its original position, hold down the red button and move the lever in the direction of the arrow to return the pin to its original position. It is not possible to mount a camcorder with the pin left out.
Pin
36
Chapter 2
Using an Optional Microphone

Fitting the optional CAC-12 Microphone Holder
Remove the two retaining screws (M3 8) for the optional microphone holder, then use these screws to attach the CAC-12 Microphone Holder.
Screws removed from the camcorder CAC-12

Fitting an optional microphone

Use the following procedure to attach an optional ECM-670 Microphone.
Loosen the screw of the CAC12 Microphone Holder, then open the holder and replace the microphone adaptor with the one supplied with the ECM670 Microphone.
Microphone adaptor
Insert the microphone in the microphone holder, close the holder, and tighten the screw. Connect the microphone cable to the MIC IN +48 V connector.
MIC IN +48 V connector
Mark
37
Using Accessories
Fitting optional microphones (operable with a 48 V supply) other than the ECM-670 Use the same fitting procedure as for the ECM-670, but note the following differences with respect to the microphone adaptor.
ECM-672: no microphone adaptor required. Slender microphones (19 mm (3/4 inch) diameter): use the microphone adaptor supplied with the CAC-12.
Using a Video Light

For the DSR-300A/300AP, you can use the Anton Bauer Ultralight 2 or equivalent. Use a video light powered by 12 V with maximum power consumption of 30 W. If you connect the video light to the video light connector 9 on the DSR-300A/300AP (page 24) and set the LIGHT switch 3 to AUTO (page 13), you can turn the light on and off automatically as you start and stop the VCR operation. The output of the video light connector on the DSR300A/300AP is controlled to 12 V even when the camcorder is supplied with 12 V or more power (through the DC IN connector or battery pack). The brightness or color temperature of the light will not change according to voltage increase.
Notes
Do not use a video light with power consumption of over 30 W. The brightness or color temperature of the light will change when the supplied voltage is under 12 V.
To fit the video light

Fit the video light to the camcorder grip or the accessory shoe on the viewfinder and connect the video light cable to the video light connector. When using a video light with a long cable You can pass part of the cable through the camcorder grip.
Projection B Projection A
Remove the cover of the camcorder grip and break off projection A (see the figure).
Pass the cable through the grip as shown in the figure and replace the cover.
38
Chapter 2
When using equipment other than the camcorder for power supply Break off projections A and B on the camcorder. (See step 1 of the previous section When using a video light with a long cable.) Insert the cable into the grip from the front hole and take out from the rear hole as shown in the figure.
Fitting the Shoulder Strap

This section describes the procedure for fitting the supplied shoulder strap to the camcorder.
Fit one of the clips to a shoulder strap fitting.
Pull up the strap to lock the fiting.
g
Clip
Fit the other clip to the shoulder strap fitting on the other side of the grip in the same way.
39
Using Accessories
Removing the shoulder strap
g
Press here to release.
Connecting to Audio System

The DSR-300A/300AP is able to record sound not only from the attached microphone but also from a wireless microphone or an external audio system.
Using a wireless microphone system

You can use the wireless microphone system including a WRT-810A/830A UHF Wireless Microphone and a WRR-810A/855A/860A UHF Portable Tuner to record sound. To connect a WRR-855A
For details on using the wireless microphone system, see the operating instructions for the microphone and tuner.
Open the cover of the WRR connector.

WRR connector
R WR
Insert the WRR-855A into the CA-WR855.

Fasten the screws (supplied with the WRR-855A).
40
Chapter 2
Fit the attachment plate on the rear side of the CA-WR855 to the V-groove on the battery attachment interface, and then slide the CA-WR855 down until it connects to the WRR connector.
CA-WR855
Set one of the AUDIO IN (CH1/CH-2) switches to WIRELESS.
To connect a WRR-810A/860A Attach the WRR tuner fitting (not supplied) (Part No. A-8278-057-A) to the rear of the camcorder as shown in the following figure.
2,3
4 5
1 1 2 3
Pass a screwdriver through the holes and tighten the screws . Loosen the adjustment screws. Adjust the metal fitting position for a battery pack to be attached, and tighten the adjustment screws to fix its position.
4 4
WRR-810A/860A
Attach the holder kit (two fittings and four screws, supplied with the tuner) to the WRR tuner fitting (one for the upper position and the other for the lower position). Mount the tuner on the WRR tuner fitting.
For details about the WRR tuner fitting (Part No. A-8278057-A), contact your Sony dealer.
41
Using Accessories
Using an external audio system

Connect an audio mixer or other external audio system component to the AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2 connector as shown below.
AUDIO IN (CH-1/CH-2) switches: Set to REAR.
CH-1
FRONT VJ MIC WIRELESS REAR
CH-2
AUDIO IN
Input selection switch: Set to LINE.

+48V ON
LINE
MIC
AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2
To audio mixer, etc.
Using the RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit

You can control the DSR-300A/300AP using the supplied RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit.

1 Cable with mini-plug Connect to the REMOTE connector 1 (6 on page 23) on the DSR-300A/300AP. 2 Switches 1 and 2 You can assign functions to these switches using advanced menu page 3 (see page 90) of the DSR300A/300AP. Each can be used as the following types of switch: VTR switch, MARK switch, CUE switch, or NG switch. When the DSR-300A/300AP is shipped, switch 1 is set as the VTR switch and switch 2 is set as the MARK switch.
For information about the advanced menu and the function of each switch, see Location and Function of Parts on page 12 and Viewfinder Advanced Menu on page 88.
1 Cable with mini-plug
2 Switches 1 and 2
4 Velcro
3 Switch name displays
5 Cable clamp groove
42
3 Switch name displays Stickers (supplied with RM-LG1) can be attached here to indicate which functions are assigned to switches 1 and 2 2. 4 Velcro When using the unit on the panning rod of the tripod, this is used to attach the unit to the panning rod mounting bracket (supplied with RM-LG1). 5 Cable clamp groove When the cable 1 is passed underneath the unit, the cable can be placed in this groove.
Using the Optional RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit (Equipped With Microphone And Monitor)
By connecting the RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit to the camcorder, you can control the camcorder while watching the image on the LCD screen of the Remote Control Unit.
DSR-300A/300AP RM-VJ1
Attaching the RM-LG1

Use the binding ties and panning rod mounting bracket to attach the unit to a panning rod.
Panning rod mounting bracket
REMOTE 2
CCA-7-7A cable
Note
Velcro
Be sure to use the CCA-7-7A Cable only when connecting the RM-VJ1. When using a conventional lens, such as the VCL918BY, you can control the zoom if you use the optional lens cable (Sony product number: 1-790-77911). For details on the cable, contact your Sony dealer.
The connection for controlling the zoom when using conventional lens Binding ties REMOTE1 Lens cable (1-790-779-11)
Panning rod
Removing the RM-LG1

Lift up the tab to loosen the binding ties.
RM-VJ1 REMOTE2 Remote control connector (8-pin) for controlling the zoom on the bottom of the lens grip
43
Using Accessories
Using the Optional LC-DS500 Carrying Case

For details on using the carrying case, refer to the instruction manual supplied with the carrying case.
Using the Optional LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case

For details on using the soft carrying case, refer to the instruction manual supplied with the soft carrying case.
44
Connections
Connecting a Number of Camcorders
When using two or more synchronized camcorders, connect an external sync signal to the GEN LOCK IN connector, supplying a VBS or BS signal. The camcorder will then operate synchronized to this signal. You can adjust the synchronization using the basic menu page 4. (See page 84.)
Note
When you fit the optional DSBK-501/501P, set the VIDEO IN to CAM using the basic menu page 3. (see page 84.)
Example 1: Camcorder 2 synchronized to the signal from camcorder 1 DSR-300A/300AP Camcorder 1
BNC cable DSR-300A/300AP Camcorder 2 Portable VTR
VTR VIDEO OUT To camera connector
GEN LOCK IN
VIDEO OUT
To video input connector
CCZ-A Camera Cable
BNC cable
Example 2: Camcorders 1 and 2 synchronized to the signal from a special effects unit or similar Camcorder 1 Video input connector Sync signal output connector Special effects unit or similar Camcorder 2 Video input connector Sync signal output connector BNC cable BNC cable VIDEO OUT GEN LOCK IN BNC cable BNC cable VIDEO OUT GEN LOCK IN
DSR-300A/300AP
DSR-300A/300AP
45
Connections
Connecting the DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette Recorder

You can do cut editing and digital dubbing by connecting the DSR-70/70P with the optional DSBK140 fitted, using an i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable). DSR-300A/300AP begins recording when the DSR70/70P or other recorder sends a REC command.
DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassette Recorder DSR-300A/300AP

DV OUT
DV IN
i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable)
Notes
The camcorder does not support noiseless various speed playback. To protect the tape, slow playback is automatically cancelled if the slow playback lasts for about one minute.
When dubbing tapes using the DSR-70/70P, a continuous recorded section of approximately five seconds is required before the recording start point. It is recommended to record color bars or a similar signal beforehand at the start point of the source tape to be dubbed on this unit.
Connecting an External VCR

You can connect the following external VCRs to the VTR connector (26-pin) or the DV OUT connector for recording.
Connector VTR connector VCR BVW-50/50P/35/ 35P (portable) VO-8800/6800 (U-matic) Digital Videocassette Recorder DSR20/20P/70/70P/ 2000/2000P, etc. Connecting cable CCZ-A Camera cable (max. length 10 m (33 ft.)) CCZQ-A Camera cable (max. length 10 m (33 ft.)) i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) (max. length 4.5 m (14 ft.)) Notes
VTR connector
DV OUT connector
There is no power supply connection between the camcorder and VCR. Provide separate power supplies. The VTR connector always outputs the signals from the camera. (The playback video of the internal VCR cannot be output. Also, a CCU connection cannot be made. When no VCR is connected to the VTR connector (26-pin), it does not supply signals.
46
Power Supply
The following power supplies can be used with the camcorder. BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A lithium-ion battery pack NP-1B Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L1Battery Adaptor is required.) BP-90A Ni-Cd Battery Pack (The DC-L90 Battery Adaptor is required.) AC power (The AC-550/550CE, AC-DN1 or CMA8/8CE AC Adaptor is required.) Alternatively, you can make combined use of internal and external batteries, by mounting one of the above batteries as an internal battery and connecting an external battery that can be a BP-90A contained in a DC-210 Battery Adaptor and connected to the DC IN connector of the camcorder.
Using a BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A Battery Pack

With a battery pack, the camcorder will operate continuously for the time shown below. BP-L40/L40A: Approx. 80 minutes BP-L60A: Approx. 180 minutes BP-L90A: Approx. 290 minutes Before use, charge the battery pack with a BC-L50/ L100/L100CE Battery Charger.
Notes on using the battery pack
A warm battery pack may not be fully recharged. Even when fully charged, battery packs gradually lose their charge naturally. Use the battery packs as soon as possible after recharging. To prolong the life of battery packs, store them in a cool place (about 20C (68F)), and charge in a place with an ambient temperature between 10C and 30C (50F to 86F). Before long-term storage, discharge the battery fully. This extends the battery life. It is recommended that the BP-L40/L40A be used at 30 W or less. The specified capacity may not be obtained if it is connected to the camcorder with accessories which is operated at 30 W or higher, especially when the ambient temperature is low.
At low temperatures, the usable time of battery packs decreases. When the ambient temperature is 0C (32F), usable time decreases by about 10%. (However, the usable time is affected by the power consumption of the camcorder in addition to the usage status of the battery packs.) The usable time of battery packs increases if they are warmed to the room temperature (about 20C (68F)) before use at low temperatures. If you use the BP-L40/L40A at temperatures of 0C (32F) or below, when power consumption of the camcorder and accessories is 40 W or higher (due to using a video light, for example), power may break after a short time (a few minutes). To increase the usable time, store the BP-L40/L40A in a warm place, and power on the camcorder before the BP-L40/ L40A cools down. Compared to the BP-L40/L40A, the BP-L60/L60A/ L90/L90A offer better performance at low temperatures. The BP-L60/L60A/L90/L90A are recommended for use at low temperatures. Carrying a spare battery pack is recommended. The BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A is free from memory effect. There is no need to discharge it fully before recharging.
47
Power Supply
Attaching the battery pack
Press the battery pack against the rear of the camcorder, aligning the side line of the battery pack with the line on the camcorder.
BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A
LOCK
Align these lines.
Slide the battery pack down until its LOCK arrow points at the matching line on the camcorder.
Matching line on the camcorder
LOCK
LOCK arrow
Detaching the battery pack
When the external battery begins to fail and an internal battery pack is also used Remove the DC output cable of the external battery from the DC IN connector. The power source will switch to the internal battery pack. When the external battery begins to fail and an internal battery pack is not used First load the camcorder with a fully charged internal battery pack, then remove the DC output cable of the external battery from the DC IN connector. The power source will switch to the internal battery pack. To use an external battery again, connect a fully charged external battery to the DC IN connector before unloading the internal battery pack. The power source will switch to the external battery. Continuous operation when operating with only an internal battery pack First, connect a fully charged external battery to the DC IN connector, then change the internal battery.
Notes
Holding the button in, pull the battery pack up.

LOCK
Avoiding breaks in operation due to dead batteries

If you use both an internal battery pack and an external battery connected to the DC IN connector at the same time, you can avoid breaks in operation due to the dead batteries.
Whenever an internal battery pack is loaded and an external battery is connected to the DC IN connector, the external battery is always used as the power source. There may be some noise on the video or audio signal at the instant the power sources are switched.
48
Using an AC Adaptor
Using a CMA-8A/8ACE AC Adaptor
Connect the camcorder to the AC power supply as shown in the following figure, and turn the POWER switch of the CMA-8A/8ACE ON.
Using the Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System

You can equip the camcorder with a special battery mount which the Anton Bauer Corporation has developed for its Intelligent Battery System and Ultralight System. When the camcorder is used with an Anton Bauer Digital Magnum series battery, the remaining battery capacity is shown numerically in the viewfinder display.
To AC power source CMA-8A/8ACE AC Adaptor POWER switch: ON

LOCK
Contact your Sony dealer for more information.
CCQX-3 cable
CAMERA/CCU DC IN
Using an AC-DN1 AC Adaptor

Mount the AC-DN1 on the camcorder in the same way as a battery, then connect to the AC power source.
To AC power source
Note
When power consumption of the camcorder and accessories is 38 W or higher, use the AC-DN2A AC adaptor (lower than 150 W).
49
Chapter
Shooting
Basic ProcedHure for Shooting
RET button ZEBRA button Focusing ring POWER switch
FILTER control
VTR button
1 2
Power the camcorder. Set the FILTER control appropriately for the lighting conditions.
(Continued)
Chapter 3 Shooting
51
Basic Procedure for Shooting
Filter setting Lighting conditions 1 (3200) Studio halogen lighting (incandescent), sunrise and sunset.
EZ FOCUS button for the EZ focus function (see page 13).
2 (5600K + 1/8 Sunlight. ND) This setting includes a 1/8 neutral density filter (reducing the exposure by the equivalent of three stops). Use it to prevent hunting1) or to reduce the depth of field2). 3 (5600K) 4 (5600K + /64ND) Cloudy or rainy outdoor shooting, and fluorescent lighting. Sunlight. This setting includes a 1/64 neutral density filter (reducing the exposure by the equivalent of six stops). Use it to prevent hunting1) or to reduce the depth of field2).
11Setup the VCR section according to your shooting

objectives, then start recording. During recording, the REC/TALLY indicator(s) in the viewfinder light(s), and REC appears on the viewfinder screen. Depending on the setting of the REC TIME switch (see page 21), you can display the total recording time or the length of the current cut on the viewfinder screen. You can use the AUDIO LEVEL knob on the front to manually adjust the channel 1 audio level. To do this, you must first set up the VCR section to enable manual adjustment of the audio recording level.
3
Chapter 3 Shooting
Check the switch settings on the camcorder. (See pages 12 to 26). If there is not sufficient time to check the camcorder settings, you can use EZ mode by setting the EZ MODE button ON. The camcorder is automatically adjusted to standard settings, and the iris and the white balance are adjusted automatically. (See page 106.) Check the settings in the basic menu (page 83) and advanced menu (page 88). Check the lens settings (pages 33 and 34) and flange focal length adjustment (page 113). Adjust the eyepiece focus, and the contrast and brightness of the viewfinder image (page 112). Check the sound system settings. Microphone connections Settings on the VCR section If required, switch on the center marker and/or safety zone (basic menu page 5 and advanced menu page 4) and zebra pattern (ZEBRA button) in the viewfinder image. Adjust the white balance (page 106) and black balance (page 109).
12To pause recording, press the VTR button again.

Using the DynaLatitude Function
This function detects the bright and dark parts of the subject and automatically adjusts for the appropriate contrast. The DynaLatitude function enables finegrained contrast adjustment according to the luminance level of each pixel. It is effective when shooting scenes with mixed light and dark parts.
4 5 6 7 8
DL OFF
DL ON
10Turn the focusing ring so that the subject is

sharply in focus. It may be convenient to use the
However, the brightness of the subject on the screen may change if the subject moves during shooting. Also, for some subjects, there may be increased noise in dark sections of the picture. For information on turning this function on and off, see page 90. For information on setting effect levels, see page 84.
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) Hunting: This occurs if the automatic iris function is not able to reach a stable state, and as a result the image brightness keeps changing, alternately lighter and darker. 2) Depth of field: This is the range over which the subject is sharply in focus.
52
Chapter 3
Shooting
Recording
Cassettes for the DSR-300A/ 300AP
The DSR-300A/300AP can use standard-size and mini-size DVCAM and DV series metal tape cassettes. (To ensure high-quality playback, editing, and storage of recorded contents, we recommend using highly reliable DVCAM cassettes). The following table lists the cassettes that can be used in the DSR-300A/300AP.
Model name Size
For details of ClipLink log data, see ClipLink Shooting (page 70).
Notes on using cassettes

Before storing the cassette, rewind the tape to the beginning and be sure to put the cassette in its storage case, preferably on end instead of flat on its side. The storage case of a DVCAM cassette is specially designed to eusure a long-period storage of the tape. Storing a cassette in any other condition (not rewound, out of its case, etc.) may cause the video and audio contents to become damaged over time. If the cassette memory connector (contact point) becomes dirty, connection problems may occur and cause a loss of functions. Remove away any dust or dirt from this area before using the cassette. If the cassette is dropped on the floor or otherwise receives a hard impact, the tape may become slackened and may not record and or play back correctly. For instructions on removing tape slack, see next page. Follow the instructions on page 55 to insert a cassette, or the camcorder may be damaged.
PDV-64ME/64MEM/94ME/124ME/ Standard size 124MEM/184ME/184MEM PDVM-12ME/22ME/32ME/ 32MEM/40ME/40MEM Mini size
The numbers in the model names show maximum recording/playback time (minutes) for each model. For example, the maximum recording/playback time of the PDV-184ME is 184 minutes.
Notes
Chapter 3 Shooting
If you insert an incorrect type of cassette, it will be automatically ejected. When using a DV cassette, the maximum recording time is reduced to two-thirds of the time indicated on the cassette. For example, up to 40 minutes of recording can be done on a 60-minute DV cassette.
Preventing accidental erasure

Set the REC/SAVE switch to SAVE to prevent accidental erasure of recorded contents.
REC/SAVE switch
DVCAM cassettes
The following figure illustrates the DVCAM cassettes appearance.
Standard size Mini size Set to SAVE
REC SAVE
If you insert a cassette into the camcorder when this switch is set to SAVE, the camcorder will not record when you press the REC button.
Cassette memory REC/SAVE switch
To enable recording Set the REC/SAVE switch back to REC.
For ClipLink shooting, a DVCAM cassette including cassette memory is necessary. In the cassette memory, data required for editing the recorded video (ClipLink log data) is stored. The DSR-300A/300AP can record or play back the cassettes with cassette memory of 16 kbits or less.
Chapter 3 Shooting
53
Recording
Checking the tape for slack

Turn the reel gently in the direction shown by the arrow. If the reel does not move, there is no slack. Insert the cassette into the cassette holder, close the cassette holder, and after about 10 seconds take it out.
See page 55 on how to insert a cassette.
Reel
Paper clip, etc.
Recording on the Internal VCR

This section describes basic recording operations using the internal VCR.
Notes
When you will not perform ClipLink shooting, set the ClipLink function to oFF in the VCR menu. (See page 103 for menu setting and see page 70 for details of ClipLink shooting.) Before shooting, mount or connect any required equipment or accessories and check the power supply. (See Chapter 2 Fitting and Connections.) Also, it is desireable to make sure for problems in camcorders internal operations using the auto-check function. (See Using Auto-Check Function Menu 210 on page 101.)
When using a tape recorded by the DSR-300A/ 300AP to transfer digital (video/audio/time code) signals at four times the normal speed from the DSR85/85P Digital Videocassette Recorder to the ES-7 EditStation for editing purposes, there must be about at least 40 seconds of recording on the tape before the IN point. To perform editing without problems, it is recommended that you pre-record at least 40 seconds of color bar signals at the beginning of the tape. When dubbing tapes using the DSR-70/70P, a continuous recorded section of approximately five seconds is required before the recording start point. It is recommended to record color bars or a similar signal beforehand at the start point of the source tape to be dubbed on this unit.
Chapter 3 Shooting
13
1
54
Chapter 3 Shooting
Set the POWER switch to ON and check the following items in the display window.
Indication and steps BATT E [xxxxxx] F: The battery is fully charged. If two or fewer marks appear and the indication is blinking, replace the battery. Make sure that the Li is not shown in the display window. If it is shown, replace the lithium battery. Make sure that the HUMID indication is not shown in the display window. If it is shown, do not use the equipment until the HUMID indication disappears. See also 8 Display window (page 16)
Item to check How is the battery?
Has the lithium battery been inserted and is it charged? Is there a condensation problem?
Inserting and Replacing the Lithium Battery (page 31) Condensation (page 123)
Press the EJECT button to open the cassette holder, and insert the cassette. Make sure that the cassettes REC/SAVE switch is set to REC, then check for tape slack before loading the cassette.
For details on handling cassettes, see Cassettes for the DSR-300A/300AP on page 53.
Inserting a mini-size cassette

Stage
Chapter 3 Shooting
Inserting a standard-size cassette
PUSH
Indication PUSH Cassette holder window Guides Mini-size cassette match marks
PUSH
Indication PUSH Lock Cassette holder window Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front) facing outward. Insert the cassette with the cassette window (on the front) facing outward. Push the cassette between the both guides along the stage until it goes under the lock.
Press PUSH on the cassette holder solidly to close the holder.

(Continued)
Chapter 3 Shooting
55
Recording
Notes
Turn the power on and then insert or eject the cassette. When inserting a mini-size cassette, confirm the cassette is under the lock (see the above figure), and then close the cassette holder. If the cassette is not inserted fully under the lock, a stopper will prevent the cassette holder from closing when you press down on it. Internal parts of the camcorder may become bent or otherwise damaged if you attempt to close the cassette holder after inserting a mini-size cassette in the wrong direction (such as with the cassette turned backside front so the reel holes face the cassette holder window or with the cassette turned sideways so that a short side enters first). If CL appears in the display window when the cassette is loaded, it means that data has already been recorded into the cassette memory. If you record under this condition whether the ClipLink function is available or not, the existing cassette memory data will be overwritten. To avoid this, insert a new cassette.
After inserting the cassette, close the cassette holder solidly by pressing on the PUSH indication on the holder. Unless the cassette holder is closed solidly, the tape will not be loaded and the tape operation buttons will not function. If you find the tape operation buttons inoperable, press on the PUSH indication again to make sure that the cassette holder is solidly closed.
PUSH
Chapter 3 Shooting
Do not insert cassette sideways.
PUSH
Do not insert cassette backside front.
Make the switch settings shown in the figure below.
WARNING
LIGHT
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER
dB
OVER
0 -12 -20
ON OFF
RESET
(MENU SET)
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
REC TIME SKIN DTL

TTL DUR OFF
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches: AUTO a)
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
TC mode switch 2: F-RUN or R-RUN b) TC mode switch 1: PRESET b)
a) When one of these switches is set to MAN, the recording volume can be manually adjusted. For details, see Manually adjusting audio recording level on page 57. b) For details, see Setting the Time Code Value on page 66.
56
Chapter 3
Shooting
Display menu 212 and select the audio recording mode (two-channel mode or four-channel mode).
For menu operation, see Selecting Audio Recording Mode Menu 212 (page 103).
Note
During recording, the tape transport buttons (EJECT, REW, F FWD, PLAY, and STOP) cannot be used.
Operation To view image being shot Step Look into the viewfinder. Connect a video monitor to the MONITOR OUT connector or S VIDEO OUT connector. Connect an earphone to the EARPHONE connector or listen to the audio from the speaker. Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.
One of the following warning indications appears in the display area when you change the audio mode setting during recording pause.
Warning indication Status Fs 48k (flashes four times per second) Fs 32k (flashes four times per second) Attempting to switch from 32-kHz mode (four-channel mode) to 48-kHz mode (two-channel mode). Attempting to switch from 48-kHz mode (two-channel mode) to 32-kHz mode (four-channel mode).
To listen to audio track being shot
To pause recording
For instructions on continuing to record after a pause, see Back Space Editing (page 60).
To stop recording Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens, then press the STOP button. With this state, it is impossible to start back space editing. Check that the power is on, then press the EJECT button to open the cassette holder and remove the cassette. Close the cassette holder.
Chapter 3 Shooting
The recordings at switching points prevent editing. Avoid changing the audio mode once you have started recording.
Set up the camcorder to suit your recording objectives, and press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. Recording begins when the TALLY indicator stays lit after blinking for a moment.
To remove the cassette
Manually adjusting audio recording level
In step 3 above (Recording on the Internal VCR), set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches to MAN (see page 56).
While checking the audio level in the display window, turn the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knob for the channel being used for microphone or wireless microphone system connection (CH-1 or CH-2) so that the maximum audio level is under 0 dB.
LIGHT
OVER
dB
WARNING
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER
0 -12 -20
ON OFF
RESET
(MENU SET)
CL CONT IP CLIP TAPE DVCAM BATT E Li F DIAG RF SERVO HUMID SLACK
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
Audio level indications
REC TIME SKIN DTL

TTL DUR OFF
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
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57
Recording
When the battery is getting exhausted

When the battery is getting exhausted, the BATT indication in the display window blinks once a second (see page 17). Replace the battery with a charged battery immediately. If you continue to use the low battery, the BATT indication will blink four times a second, and the operation will stop.
For description of how to replace batteries, see Power Supply on page 47.
Notes
Recording on an External VCR using the VTR Connector (26-pin)

Set the VTR TRIGGER switch in the following way. (You can change the setting during recording.) Simultaneous recording on the external and internal VCR: PARALLEL Recording on the external VCR: EXT ONLY When the VTR TRIGGER switch is set to INT ONLY, the camcorder controls only the internal VCR even if an external VCR is connected.
For information about connectable VCRs, see Connecting an External VCR (page 46).
Turn the POWER switch OFF before replacing the battery. If using two NP-1B batteries, be sure to replace both batteries at the same time.
Chapter 3 Shooting
Recording on the internal and external VCRs simultaneously
Recording External Video Signals

When the optional DSBK-501/501P Analog Composite Input Board is fitted to this camcorder, you can record external video signals.
Set the switches as shown in the table below.

Setting PARALLEL Set depending on the connected VCR. 20 dB
Switch VTR TRIGGER switch EXT VTR OUTPUT switch Audio input level setting switch on the connected VCR
1 2 3 4
Connect the external video signals to the GEN LOCK IN/VIDEO IN Connector. Set VIDEO IN to EXT using basic menu page 4.
For details, see Viewfinder Basic Menu on page 83.
2 3
Put the external VCR in the recording pause mode. Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. The both VCRs start recording simultaneously. To pause recording, press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens again. The both VCRs go into the recording paused state. If either VCR comes to end of tape during recording, one VCR stops at the end of the tape, and the other will continue recording. To restart simultaneous recording, perform the following. When the internal VCR has run out of the tape: Change the cassette, and press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. When the external VCR has run out of the tape: Change the cassette, and start recording with the controls on the external VCR.
Press the EJECT switch to open the cassette holder, and insert the cassette. Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. The camcorder starts recording.
Notes
If the external video signals include noise, such as jitter, the camcorder may not record signals properly. When recording external analog video signals, signals are not output from the S VIDEO OUT connector. Setup log data is not displayed when external analog video signals are being recorded (see page 95).
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Note
After replacing the cassette on the external VCR, do not press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens, as this will pause the internal VCR. To operate either VCR during recording, change the VTR TRIGGER switch setting. Both VCRs continue recording at the time of switching. Setting to INT ONLY: The camcorder can operate only the internal VCR. Setting to EXT ONLY: The camcorder can operate only the external VCR.
Recording on an External VCR Using the DV OUT Connector

You can record digital audio and video signals in the DV format on an external VCR using the DV OUT connector.
For information about connectable VCRs, see Connecting an External VCR on page 46.
Note
Recording on the external VCR only
1 2 3
Set the VTR TRIGGER switch to EXT ONLY. Use the controls on the external VCR to put it in the recording paused state. Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. The external VCR starts recording.
When external equipment, such as VCR, is connected to the DV OUT connector, the ClipLink and the audio fade-in/fade-out function during recording do not work.
Chapter 3 Shooting
To pause recording Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens.
Using the viewfinder to see playback pictures

For the internal VCR: Press the PLAY button. For the external VCR: Press the RET button on the lens when the internal VCR is in recording or no cassette is inserted in the internal VCR. While holding it down, you can see the return video from the external VCR.
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59
Back Space Editing

This section describes the steps for recording several scenes continuously.
If there is a long period before shooting the next scene

Once put the camcorder into recording pause mode, it waits a certain (user-definable) period of time and then automatically switches to standby-off mode. When the camcorder is in standby-off mode, it takes time for the recording to start after pressing the VTR button.
For details on setting the timeout value for automatic switching to standby-off mode, see Setting Standby-On Period Menu 207 on page 100.
Follow steps 1 to 5 (pages 54 to 57) in the procedure Recording on the Internal VCR to begin recording. To continue the time code that has been recorded on the tape, set the TC mode switch 2 to R-RUN in step 3 (page 56).
For details of time codes, see Setting the Time Code Value on page 66.
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Chapter 3 Shooting
When you have finished recording a scene, press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. This pauses the recording operation.
Note
Starting Back Space Editing at Any Tape Position

This section describes the steps for inserting a new scene at any desired position on the tape. The following steps can also be used to restart recording after an interruption has occurred.
Do not do any of the following before the next scene is shot as it will interrupt the recording (the recording will not be continuous). Remove the cassette. Transport the tape (play, rewind, fast forward). Press the STOP button. Replace the battery when the camcorder is powered.
1 2 3
Perform step 1 (page 55) in Recording on the Internal VCR. Insert the cassette containing the previous recording. Perform steps 3 and 4 (pages 56 and 57) in Recording on the Internal VCR. To continue from the last time code of the previous recording, set TC mode switch 1 to REGEN.
For details about time codes, see Setting the Time Code Value on page 66.
When you are ready to shoot the next scene, again press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. This restarts the recording operation.
Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each scene to be shot.
Operation
Step
Restart an See next section Starting Back interrupted recording Space Editing at Any Tape Position. (see step 2 above) Check the recorded contents Stop recording See Checking the Recorded Contents Immediately After Shooting Recording Review on page 63. Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens, then press the STOP button.
Press the PLAY button. The recorded contents are displayed on the viewfinder screen.
Operation at playback Step Fast forward the tape Rewind the tape Press the F FWD button. Press the REW button.
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STOP button REW button PLAY button F FWD button
If the POWER switch is turned on and off repeatedly. If the camcorder is left powered off for several hours. If the camcorder is subject to severe vibration while powered off. If for any other reason the automatic recording continuity function is unable to operate correctly. If the lithium battery (CR2032) is exhausted, or if no lithium battery has been fitted.
Using the Edit Search Function While Back Space Editing

You can use the edit search function to find the desired tape location when continuing to record from any other location on the tape. Press and hold one of the EDIT SEARCH buttons to activate the search playback function for as long as you hold down it.
EJECT
STOP
REW
PLAY
F FWD
Press the STOP button when the tape reaches the position where the new recording will start (see the figure above). This stops the tape.
Chapter 3 Shooting
1 2 3
Turn on the power, then insert a cassette into the VCR. Perform steps 2 to 12 in Basic Procedure for Shooting (page 51). Press and hold either of the EDIT SEARCH buttons (REV or FWD).
Press the RET button on the lens. This rewinds the tape slightly and runs it until the continue point (specified by step 5), then sets the camcorder to recording pause state.
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. This starts recording.
The edit search function enables you to search for the continue position. For details, see next section.
Note
If you turn the POWER switch off during recording, or when recording is paused, the camcorder automatically goes through its shut-down sequence, then powers off. When you next turn the POWER switch on, the camcorder automatically finds the point at which recording ended, and sets itself up so that you can carry in with continuous recording. Note that this operation takes several seconds: do not turn the POWER switch is turned off or replace the battery during this interval, as the automatic recording continuity will be lost. Note also that the recording continuity is lost in the following cases.
REV button FWD button
The tape is moved in reverse or forward search mode for as long as you hold down the REV or FWD button, and the image is shown in the viewfinder.
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61
Back Space Editing
To change the playback speed Press the REV or FWD button down firmly into the inner position to make the tape move at the faster speed. Press the button down lightly to make the tape move at the slower speed.
Note
The following indication appears on the screen.
Do not shut off the power while using the edit search function. The VCR may not be able to find the continue point.
For details of the playback operation, see page 63.
Release the REV or FWD button when you find the tape location where you wish to continue shooting. The VCR enters recording pause mode.
Press the MENU dial when you see the image you want to freeze. The frozen playback image is displayed, mixed with the shooting image, in monochrome. The indication FREEZE MIX ON appears on the screen.
5
Chapter 3 Shooting
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens. The VCR starts recording.
Using the Freeze Mix Function

The freeze mix function superimposes a freeze-frame image of a previously recorded shot on the shooting image displayed on the viewfinder screen. You can use this function to easily frame a subject within the same framework from a previous shot.
Note
To release the freeze mix mode, press the MENU dial again. To change the freeze-frame image Press the PLAY button. Use the tape transport buttons to find the desired image and then perform step 4 again.
When the camcorder is in EZ mode, the freeze mix function is disabled. Press the EZ MODE button to release the EZ mode beforehand. (See page 14.)
Connect a color monitor to the MONITOR OUT connector and set the MONITOR OUT CHARACTER switch to ON. (It is not necessary to set the MONITOR OUT CHARACTER switch to ON when using only the viewfinder for freeze mix operation.) Perform steps 2 to 10 from Basic Procedure for Shooting (page 51). Play back the tape on which the image to be used for framework alignment has been recorded, and press the MENU switch to ON position.
5 6
Once you have framed your subject, press the MENU dial to cancel the freeze mix function. Find the recording start point or insert a new cassette for recording, then begin recording.
2 3
Notes
If you use the tape transport buttons during back space editing, the back space editing mode will be stopped. When you were using the ClipLink function at shooting, if you simply restart the recording you will lose any ClipLink data that was recorded. To avoid this, press the ClipLink CONTINUE button before restarting recording. Signals are not output from the DV OUT connector while using the freeze mix function.
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Playback Checking Recorded Contents

Checking the Recorded Contents Immediately After Shooting Recording Review
Immediately after shooting, you can use the recording review function to automatically rewind and play back the last 2 to 10 seconds of the recording to check the recorded contents. Performing recording review With recording paused, press the RET button on the lens.
EJECT
STOP REW
STOP button REW button PLAY button F FWD button

PLAY F FWD
Depending on how long you hold down the button, the tape is automatically rewound over the last 2 to 10 seconds of the recording, and then this last part of the recording is shown in the viewfinder. You can also listen to the recorded sound via an earphone or the speaker. After the recorded part is played back, the camcorder is automatically returns to the pause state.
Notes
Operation Fast forward the tape Rewind the tape Stop the tape Note
Step
Chapter 3 Shooting
Press the F FWD button. Press the REW button. Press the STOP button.
During recording review, do not turn the POWER switch off. The camcorder may not be able to find the continue point. When the ClipLink function is set to oFF and you press the VTR button on DSR-300A/300AP or the lens during recording preview, the recording preview is halted and recording starts. In this case, back space editing is not possible.
If two or more series of Index Pictures are recorded separately on the tape, they may be played back at back space editing points.
For details about Index Pictures, see ClipLink Shooting (page 70).
Viewing Color Playback Viewing Monochrome Playback in the Viewfinder

You can view a monochrome playback of the recording in the viewfinder. Using a color television or color video monitor, you can view a color playback (with no playback adaptors). Connect a color television or color video monitor to the MONITOR OUT connector or the S VIDEO OUT connector. See the previous section Viewing Monochrome Playback in the Viewfinder for playback operation.
1 2 3
Turn the power on. Load a cassette. Press the PLAY button. This starts playback, during which a monochrome playback of the recording is shown in the viewfinder.
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63
Setting Time Values

The camcorder uses three types of time values: counter values, time code values, and user bits. The time value is displayed in the viewfinder screen and in the display window.
LIGHT
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button. This resets the counter shown in the viewfinder and display window as 0:00:00:00. The counter value starts advancing as the tape is transported. It shows negative values if the tape is rewound past the point where the counter was reset.
Note
WARNING
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
Time value indication
ON OFF
RESET
(MENU SET)
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
DISPLAY switch
Discontinuous recording in the tape may cause the counter to malfunction during playback.
Use the DISPLAY switch to switch time value indications.

Type of time value Counter of tape transport time Time code User bits Note
Chapter 3 Shooting
Displaying the date/time

The camcorder automatically records the real time of the built-in clock on the tape in addition to time codes and video/audio signals. Perform the following steps to display the date or time instead of the time value.
DISPLAY switch setting COUNTER TC U-BIT
The time code and user bits cannot be displayed if the tape does not have time code and/or user bits recordings or if the time code was recorded using a non-compatible method.
For details of the time value indication in the viewfinder, see page 79.
Confirm the following.

Parts to confirm Display window TC mode switch 1/2 State The VCR menu is not displayed. Set the position other than PRESET/SET.
Resetting the counter

The counter value shows the tapes running time in hours, minutes, seconds, and frames format. Before starting a tape, perform the following steps to reset the counter.
Counter
WARNING LIGHT
2 3
Set the DISPLAY switch to TC or U-BIT. Press the SHIFT button. While pressing the SHIFT button, the date or time is displayed at the location of the time value indication.
DISPLAY switch setting TC U-BIT Indication Time Date
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
ON OFF
RESET
2 1
(MENU SET)
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
For description of how to set the built-in clock, see Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar Menu 101 on page 99.
Set the DISPLAY switch to COUNTER. The time value indication in the display window shows the current counter value.
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Setting the User Bit Value

You can set the user bits as eight-digit hexadecimal values (base 16) to have the date, time, scene number, and other information inserted into the time code. When using both the time code and user bits, set up the user bits first. If you set the time code first, the internal time code generator will remain stopped while you set the user bits, which will set the time value off from the original setting.
Note
Setting the user bit value may be disallowed in some cases at ClipLink shooting. For details, see step 4 on page 71 in ClipLink Shooting.
4
WARNING LIGHT
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER
dB
OVER
0 -12 -20
ON OFF
RESET
(MENU SET)
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
Chapter 3 Shooting
REC TIME SKIN DTL

TTL DUR OFF
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
2 3
1 2 3
Set the DISPLAY switch to U-BIT. The user bits indication appears. Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET. Set the TC mode switch 2 to SET.
Operation Select a digit Change a value
Step Press the SHIFT button. Each time you press the SHIFT button, the next digit to the right starts blinking. Press the ADVANCE button. Each time you press the ADVANCE button, the displayed value is incremented to F and returns to 0. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button. The display returns to 00 00 00 00.
Reset
This causes the left-most digit in the user bits indication to start blinking.
Set the user bits.
Hexadecimal digits A to F are displayed as follows.

Hexadecimal digit Display A A B b C C D d E E F F
Perform step 6 in Setting the Time Code Value on page 67.
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65
Setting Time Values
Setting the Time Code Value

This section describes the steps for setting time code recording methods for particular shooting conditions and setting initial values. When using both the time code and user bits, setup the user bits first. If you set the time code first, the internal time code generator will remain stopped while you set the user bits, which will set the time value off from the original setting.
For details of setting user bits, see Setting the User Bit Value on previous page.
Note
Setting the time code value may be disallowed in some cases at ClipLink shooting. For details, see step 4 on page 71 in ClipLink Shooting.
5
WARNING RESET
4
LIGHT
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER
dB
OVER
0 -12 -20
ON OFF
(MENU SET)
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
Chapter 3 Shooting
REC TIME SKIN DTL

TTL DUR OFF
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
2 3,6
1 2 3
Set the DISPLAY switch to TC. Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET. Set the TC mode switch 2 to SET. This causes the left-most digit in the time code display to start blinking. The time code value can be set anywhere in the range of 00:00:00:00 to 23:59:59:29 (DSR300A) or 23:59:59:24 (DSR-300AP).
For the DSR-300A, use menu 204 to select the frame mode.
Operation Adjust the discrepancy bestrewn time code value and real time Step Select the dropframe mode.
Set the time code initial value.

Operation Select a digit Change a value Reset Step Press the SHIFT button. Each time you press the SHIFT button, the next digit to the right starts blinking. Press the ADVANCE button. Each time you press the ADVANCE button, the displayed value increases. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button. The display returns to 00:00:00:00.
Need not adjust the discrepancy Select the nonbetween time code value and real drop-frame mode. time
For more information about the drop-frame/non-dropframe mode, see Drop-frame mode (for DSR-300A only) on next page. For details of menu operations, see page 99.
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Use the TC mode switch 2 to set the desired running mode.

Operation Time code advances freely regardless of the VCRs current operation mode. Time code value advances only while recording. Setting F-RUN R-RUN
Restarting an interrupted recording Perform the following steps to make the time code continuous when the recording has been interrupted or when the cassette tape has been removed from the camcorder between shootings.
Set the TC mode switch 1 to REGEN. Time code advance is automatically set to R-RUN even if the TC mode switch 2 has been set to FRUN.
If you select F-RUN, the time code starts advancing immediately.
Drop-frame mode (for DSR-300A only)

Time code is processed as 30 frames per second, but the exact video frame frequency for NTSC signals is in fact 29.97 frames per second. In prolonged recording, this leads to a discrepancy between the time code and the real time. Drop-frame mode corrects for this by skipping two frame counts at the beginning of every minute which is not a multiple of ten. Example: When the minute value is changing from 11 to 12
Perform steps 1 to 6 of Starting Back Space Editing at Any Tape Position on page 60. When the camcorder is at the recording pause state, the recorded time code is read from the tape and synchronized to the internal time code generator.
Chapter 3 Shooting
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens to restart back space editing.
Setting the time code to the real time clock and calendar
Set the TC mode switch 1 to DATE/TIME.
05:12:00:00 05:12:00:01 These two are dropped.
This synchronizes the time code generator to real time (recorded in the user bits) and date (recorded in the time code), using the real time clock and calendar set in menu 101. Once you set this switch to DATE/TIME position, it is not possible to retrieve the previous value (user bits and time code) in the time code generator.
For how to set the real time clock and calendar, see Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar Menu 101 on page 99.
In non-drop-frame mode, however, no frame counts are omitted, and there is a gradual deviation of the time code from real time.
Making the time code continuous in back space editing

Set the TC mode switch 2 to R-RUN and start back space editing.
For back space editing operations, see Back Space Editing on page 60.
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Setting Time Values
Synchronization With External Time Code Signals Gen-Lock

To edit and compile a recording that is shot using multiple camcorders, it is necessary to synchronize the video and time code of the various camcorders (by gen-lock).
Note
Synchronization with external time code signals (by gen-lock) may be disallowed in some cases at ClipLink shooting. For details, see step 4 on page 71 in ClipLink Shooting
Connection for gen-lock

Connect the reference video and time code signals to the camcorder as shown below. Locking the video and time code signals to an external reference signal
Chapter 3 Shooting
GEN LOCK IN Reference video signal TC IN Reference time code signal
Locking the video and time code signals to another camcorders video and time code signals Using one camcorder as reference, to its video and time code signals, lock the other camcorders video and time code signals.
If the reference camcorder is gen-locked to an external reference signal, any other connected camcorders are gen-locked to the same reference signal.
Composite video signal (used as reference video signal) Time code signal (used as reference time code signal) VIDEO OUTa) Reference camcorder TC OUT
TC IN GEN LOCK IN Locked camcorder TC OUT VIDEO OUTa)
a) The output signal from the MONITOR OUT connector on the DSR-300A/300AP may discontinue when switching the operation between recording and playback. Use the output signal from the VIDEO OUT connector.
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Locking the internal time code generator to the reference time code
Perform the following steps to synchronize the camcorders internal time code generator to an external time code.
1 2 3
Set the TC mode switch 1 to PRESET. Set the TC mode switch 2 to F-RUN. Connect a reference time code and video signal to the camcorder.
For connections, see the previous section Connection for gen-lock.
EXT-LK will be displayed in the display window. The internal time code generator will maintain its externally synchronized state even after you disconnect the reference time code signal. The precision of this synchronization (phase alignment) of time codes depends on the precision of the camcorders sync signal generator.
Notes
Chapter 3 Shooting
After setting up external synchronization, allow a few seconds for the camcorders sync signal generator to stabilize before recording. Only the time code can be externally synchronized. User bits cannot be externally synchronized. If you turn the POWER switch on or off while the camcorder is operating under external synchronization, synchronization precision will be reduced.
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ClipLink Shooting
The ClipLink function is intended to be used at various stages from recording to editing. When you record using this function, Index Pictures are automatically recorded along with the time code, scene number, and other data, all of which make for more efficient editing.
For an overview of the ClipLink function, refer to the supplied ClipLink Guide.
Notes
To record Index Pictures, the optional DSBK-301A Index Picture Board is required.
On how to attach the DSBK-301A, see the operating instructions for the DSBK-301A.
When external equipment, such as a VCR, is connected to the DV OUT connector, you cannot shoot with ClipLink. On the DSR-300A/300AP, you can also use the ClipLink function without recording Index Pictures. However, if you perform ClipLink shooting on the DSR-300A/300AP without fitting the optional DSBK-301A, the recorded tape may occasionally cause malfunctions at ClipLink continue on a DSR-1/ 1P. When you perform ClipLink shooting for a system that contains both the DSR-1/1P and the DSR-300A/ 300AP, fit the optional DSBK-301A Index Picture Board to the DSR-300A/300AP.
WARNING
LIGHT
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER
dB
OVER
0 -12 -20
ON OFF
Chapter 3 Shooting
REC TIME SKIN DTL
RESET
(MENU SET)
F 8 32k F 8 48k
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
TTL DUR OFF
EXT VTR OUTPUT
MENU
ADVANCE
SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
1 2
Turn the power on and perform steps 2 to 10 in Basic Procedure for Shooting (page 51). Perform steps 1 and 2 (page 55) in Recording on the Internal VCR. Check the following points.
Check point Check to see if the the ClipLink function is on (or set it to on).
Method See Selecting ClipLink Function Menu 211 under Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu (page 103). appears in the display window when the loaded cassette includes cassette memory. (The ClipLink function cannot be used appears in the unless display window.)
Li appears in the display window if the lithium battery has not been inserted or is used up.
Check whether or not the cassette includes cassette memory. (The camcorder supports cassettes with up to 16 Kbits of cassette memory.) Make sure that the lithium battery has been correctly inserted and is not used up.
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CLIP and IP Display CLIP

IP
appear in the display window.
Meaning The camcorder is in ClipLink mode. The camcorder is in ClipLink mode and can record Index Pictures (when the DSBK-301A is fitted).
The number of recordable clips varies with cassette memory capacity. Up to 45 clips (Index Pictures) can be recorded in a 4-Kbit cassette memory and up to 198 clips (Index Pictures) can be recorded in a 16-Kbit cassette memory.
3 4
Set the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switch to AUTO or MAN (see page 56). Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens. Recording begins when the TALLY indicator stays lit after blinking for a moment. The camcorder enters ClipLink continue mode (in which back space editing is possible using ClipLink function) and indication CONT appears in the display window.
Chapter 3 Shooting
The following display appears on the viewfinder screen.
ClipLink mode indication: CLIP M or Ca) Clip remaining
a) For details, see Basic menu page 6 (page 85).
To record the cassette name/number Access basic menu page 6 to specify a name or number for the inserted cassette (see page 85).
Notes
During recording, the time code (HH:MM:SS format) at the recording start (Rec IN) point is recorded into the camcorders internal memory. Index Pictures are also recorded if you use the DSBK-301A.
Note
If you use a cassette that contains data recorded via a different VCR when you enter a cassette name/number in the cassette memory, you may lose any data that was previously written to the cassette memory. Also, if you use a cassette that contains data recorded in ClipLink mode on the camcorder for recording on a different VCR, you may lose any data that was previously written to the cassette memory. When you power the camcorder or insert a cassette, black squares (x) blink in the place of the clip remaining indication in the display window (during this, the cassette memory data is being checked). Start recording after the blinking ends, or the ClipLink function will be disabled. When CL appears in the display window, it means that data has already been recorded into the cassette memory. If you record under this condition whether the ClipLink function is available or not, the existing cassette memory data will be overwritten. To avoid this, you can either insert a new cassette or follow the procedure for appending cassette memory data, as described in the section Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode (page 74). If the CL is flashing, it means abnormality of the cassette memory. In this case, it is impossible to continue recording from that data on ClipLink mode.
When CONT appears, regardless of the setting of the TC mode switch 1, the time code generator automatically enters REGEN mode. Consequently, you cannot freely specify a time code nor can you use the external synchronization (genlock) function.
To stop recording, press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens. This sets recording pause mode. The time codes (HH:MM:SS) for the current clip (contents between the Rec IN and Rec OUT points) are recorded along with the scene number (as scene 001) in the cassette memory. The last Index Picture in the recorded scene is also recorded when the DSBK-301A is fitted.
Note
While data is being recorded in the cassette memory, cutting the power supply or opening the cassette holder is disallowed. If you turn the POWER switch off or press the EJECT button, black squares (x) blink in the place of the clip remaining indication in the display window. When the data has been recorded, the power supply is cut or the cassette is ejected.
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ClipLink Shooting
To continuously record the next scene Repeat steps 4 and 5. The scene number will be automatically incremented from the previous number. You can set or clear an NG designation for the previously recorded scene before shooting the next scene.
If you have stopped the recording, see Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode (page 74).
Notes
Setting Editing Points While Shooting

You can use the TAKE button to record a time code for a Cue point or a Mark IN/OUT point.
Setting Mark IN/OUT points as you shoot

The following data is recorded onto the cassette when you specify Mark IN/OUT points while shooting continuously at length, instead of during linked recording of each scene. Time codes (HH:MM:SS) for Mark IN/OUT points Scene number: The scene number counter is automatically incremented with each Mark OUT point specification. NG specification, cassette name/number Index Pictures for all Mark IN points (when the DSBK-301A is fitted): these are recorded each time recording is stopped.
Note
During recording pause, pressing the STOP/PLAY/F FWD/REW buttons, performing edit search, or ejecting the cassette will interrupt the ClipLink shooting. With this state, it is impossible to start back space editing using ClipLink function. (The ClipLink continue mode is canceled and indication CONT in the display window disappears.) To perform back space editing at the recording stop position, press the ClipLink CONTINUE button before resuming recording. If you do resume recording without pressing this button first, the previous recorded data (and Index Pictures) will be overwritten or otherwise invalidated. Each time you press the STOP button, the number of remaining clips is decremented by one. If you resume recording with the same VCR, the number of remaining clips is automatically incremented by one.
For details, see Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode (page 74).
Chapter 3 Shooting
The time codes for Rec IN/OUT points are not recorded. Perform the following procedure.
1 2
Perform steps 1 to 3 from ClipLink Shooting (pages 70 and 71). Access basic menu page 5 and perform the following operations. 1) Set MARK/CUE to MARK. The ClipLink mode indication CLIP M appears on the viewfinder screen. 2) Set the cassette name or number if necessary.
For details of menu operations, see Basic Menu Operations (page 83).
Do not unplug the power supply connector (connected to a battery pack or AC outlet) while the POWER switch is still set to ON, as this may cause the ClipLink function to operate abnormally. Be sure to set the POWER switch to OFF before disconnecting the power supply.
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. The camcorder starts recording, and the REC/ TALLY indicator(s) light(s) in the viewfinder.
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Press the TAKE button when you find a shot where you would like to set a Mark IN point.
Setting Cue points as you shoot

The following data is recorded onto the cassette when you specify a Cue point to highlight a scene. Time codes (HH:MM:SS) for Rec IN/OUT points Time codes (HH:MM:SS:frame) for Cue points Scene number: The scene number counter is automatically incremented with each Rec OUT point specification. NG designation, cassette name/number (if set from the camcorder) Index Pictures for all Rec IN points (when the DSBK-301A is fitted): these are recorded each time recording is stopped. Perform the following procedure.
Chapter 3 Shooting
TAKE button
The TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange) lights in the viewfinder and TAKE appears on the screen.
Press the TAKE button when you find a shot where you would like to set a Mark OUT point. The TAKE/TALLY indicator (orange) goes out in the viewfinder and the TAKE disappears from the screen. At this time, the time code (HH:MM:SS) at the Mark IN/OUT point for scene 001 is recorded to the camcorders internal memory, and then recorded to the cassette memory. To set/clear NG If you press the NG button before you set the next Mark IN point, the previous scene will be designated as NG (NG appears on the screen). Once NG has been set, you can cancel it by pressing the NG button again before you set the next Mark IN point (the NG on the screen disappears).
1 2
Perform steps 1 to 3 in ClipLink Shooting (pages 70 and 71). Access basic menu page 6 and perform the following operations. 1) Set MARK/CUE to CUE. The ClipLink mode indication CLIP C appears on the viewfinder screen. 2) Set the cassette name or number if necessary.
For details of menu operations, see Basic Menu Operations (page 83).
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. The camcorder starts recording, and the REC/ TALLY indicator lights in the viewfinder.
Repeat steps 4 and 5 as needed to record time codes at Mark IN/OUT points, scene numbers, and NG designations to cassette memory. The scene number is automatically incremented each time you specify a Mark IN point.
Press the TAKE button when you find a shot where you would like to set a Cue point. The CUE indication appears (for about 1 second) on the viewfinder screen. At this point, the time code (HH:MM:SS:frame) at the Cue point is recorded into the cassette memory.
To finish shooting, press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. This stops the recording operation. The Index Pictures of each Mark IN point are recorded onto the tape (when the DSBK-301A is fitted).
Repeat step 4 to specify more Cue points.

(Continued)
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ClipLink Shooting
To finish shooting, press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. This stops recording operation.
Time codes (HH:MM:SS) and scene number (scene 001) are recorded to the cassette memory and the Index Picture of the Rec IN point is recorded onto the tape (when the DSBK-301A is attached).
Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode

During recording pause in ClipLink mode, pressing the STOP/PLAY/F FWD/REW buttons, performing edit search, or ejecting the cassette will interrupt the ClipLink shooting. With this state, it is impossible to start back space editing using ClipLink function. (The ClipLink continue mode is canceled and indication CONT in the display window disappears.) If you resume recording on the same cassette, the previously recorded data will be overwritten.
Chapter 3 Shooting
You can avoid this and continue recording in ClipLink mode from the previous recording stop point by performing the following steps.
Note
If you stop recording during the first ten seconds of recording, you may not be able to use these steps to continue recording in ClipLink mode.
13
1
1 2
4
3
Check the following points.
Check point CLIP and IP (when the DSBK301A is fitted) appear in the display window Remaining clips Result and response If these indications do not appear in the display window, access the VCR menu and set ClipLink function to on (see page 103). Make sure there are enough capacity for recording clips (see page 18).
Perform steps 2 to 10 in Basic Procedure for Shooting (page 51) and step 1 (page 55) in Recording on the Internal VCR. Insert a cassette if one is not already loaded. The CL and indications should appear in the display window.
Note
If the CL is flashing, it means abnormality of the cassette memory. In this case, it is impossible to continue recording from that data on ClipLink mode.
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Press the ClipLink CONTINUE button. The tape remaining indication in the display window flashes as the camcorder automatically searches the recording stop point. When it finds the recording stop point, it stops and enters recording pause mode. Once it has stopped, check that the CONT indication appears in the display window. To find the recording stop point efficiently If you press the ClipLink CONTINUE button after rewinding or fast forwarding the tape to the position between the previous recordings start point and stop points, the recording stop point can more efficiently be found via an automatic search function. If the recording stop point cannot be found, the CONT indication flashes in the display window.
When all Index Pictures are recorded at the end of the recordings
Index Pictures A B C D E F G Recording stop Recording restart (ClipLink continue)
Recording start
Recording stop
Clip
5 6
When two or more series of Index Pictures are separately recorded Two or more series of Index Pictures may be recorded if ClipLink shooting is once interrupted due to ejecting the cassette and resumed (in case of changing the camcorder on resuming, for example).
Index Pictures A Index Pictures B D E F G
Chapter 3 Shooting
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or the lens. This starts the recording function. When the recording is finished, set recording pause mode (or specify a Mark OUT point). The time code (HH:MM:SS), scene number (serial number of scene during which recording was stopped) and other data for the current clip (contents between the Rec IN and Rec OUT points or between Mark IN and Mark OUT points) are recorded into cassette memory. The Index Pictures for the recorded scene are recorded after the recorded scene when the DSBK-301A is fitted. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to start recording the next scene. The Index Pictures are recorded onto the tape as described below when the DSBK-301A is fitted.
Recording start A B C
Recording stop Remove cassette.
Recording restart (ClipLink continue)
Recording stop
Clip
Camcorder A
Camcorder B Insert cassette in camcorder B.
If there is no need for ClipLink continue

It is not necessary to press the ClipLink CONTINUE button when restarting recording. See step 4 in the previous section Resuming Recording in ClipLink Mode. The contents recorded on the cassette may differ in this case depending on the settings when the recording is restarted.
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ClipLink Shooting
When recording in ClipLink mode is started and previous recording is overwritten

Previous recording
New recording
Previous Index Pictures: erased
New Index Pictures are recorded (when the DSBK-301A is fitted).
ClipLink log data: overwritten by new data
When recording in ClipLink mode is started after a previous recording

Previous recording New recording
Chapter 3 Shooting
Previous Index Pictures: retained but invalid
New Index Pictures are recorded (when the DSBK-301A is fitted).
ClipLink log data: overwritten by new data
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Chapter
Viewfinder Screen Indications

There are four types of indication screen which appear in the viewfinder, as follows. Normal indications These show the operating state of the camcorder. (See page 79.) Status indications Pressing the MENU switch up while the normal indications are present calls a display of current settings. (See page 82.) Basic menu This provides settings for the lens iris, shutter speed and so forth, and also a titling screen. (See the section Viewfinder Basic Menu on page 83.) Advanced menu This provides settings for the center marker, zebra pattern, viewfinder screen indications, and so forth. (See the section Viewfinder Advanced Menu on page 88.)
Changing the Viewfinder Display

Use the buttons and switches shown in the following figure to switch the viewfinder display among the normal indications, basic menu pages and advanced menu pages.
POWER switch MENU switch
STATUS
ON OFF MENU
MENU dial
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Viewfinder Screen Indications
Displaying the normal indications and switching to the basic menu

To display the normal indications, move the POWER switch to the ON position. To switch to and from the basic menu, use the MENU switch or MENU dial. CHECK DIAG appears before basic menu page 1 when the self diagnostic function has detected an abnormality (see page 87).
Display by holding the MENU switch up while the normal indications are present.
Status indications
Normal indications Display by moving the POWER switch to the ON position.
Switch by pressing the MENU switch down or press and turn the MENU dial downward. Page 1
Page 2
Chapter 4 Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus
Basic menu
Page 8a)
a) The menu configuration differs according to the camcorders switch settings, the connected VCR, and the type of input signal. A eight-page configuration results when all of the basic menu pages are displayed.
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Viewfinder Normal Indications

During normal operation, the following items can be indicated in the viewfinder.
1 VCR operation status indication 2 TAKE/CUE indication 3 Recording time or time data indication a) 4 NG indication 5 Clip mode indication 6 Clip remaining indication 7 Status display area 8 EZ FOCUS indication 9 LOW LIGHT indication a) qs VCR warning indication qd External VCR status indication c) qf VCR recording mode indication c) qg White balance indication qh SKIN DTL indication qj EVS indication qk Lens f-stop indication a) ql Gain indication a) w; Filter setting indication a) wa Clock indication a), b) q; Audio recording level indicators a) qa Tape remaining indication a) ws Voltage/error indication wd Shutter setting indication a)
a) Whether or not to display can be selected by menu setting. b) This is recorded over the picture being shot. c) Displayed only when an external VCR is connected
The significance of each of the indications shown in the figure is as follows. 1 VCR operation status indication This indicates the VCRs current operation status (REC, PLAY, etc.). 2 TAKE/CUE indication This displays a TAKE or CUE indication when using the ClipLink function for recording. TAKE: When recording in Mark mode, this indication appears when a Mark IN point is set and disappears when the next Mark OUT point is set. CUE: When recording in Cue mode, this indication appears for about 1 second when a Cue point is set. 3 Recording time or time data indication This shows the following values. When the REC TIME switch is in the TTL position: The total recording time (When an external VCR is connected, you can select whether to show the recording time of the internal VCR or of the external VCR using advanced menu page 4. See page 91 for more information.)
When the REC TIME switch is in the DUR position: The duration of the current recording cut When the REC TIME switch is in the OFF position and the item TC IND in advanced menu page 6 is set to ON: A time data value depending on the DISPLAY switch settings as shown in the following table
DISPLAY switch setting COUNTER TC Time data displayed CNT: Tape transport time TCG: a time code from the time code generator TCR: a time code from the time code reader U-BIT UBG: a user bit value from the time code generator UBR: a user bit value from the time code reader
Time data values appear during playback, fast forward, rewind, or recording review. 4 NG indication An NG (No Good) indication appears if you designate a recorded scene as NG when using the ClipLink function for recording.
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Viewfinder Normal Indications
5 Clip mode indication A CLIP M or CLIP C indication appears when you use the ClipLink function for recording. CLIP M: Indicates shooting in Mark mode CLIP C: Indicates shooting in Cue mode 6 Clip remaining indication The number of available clips is displayed when you use the ClipLink function for recording. 7 Status display area One of the following values or messages is displayed to indicate the camcorders current status or its operation status. New values when changing camcorders settings Messages indicating progress or results of adjustments The camcorders current settings SetupLog data recorded to tape during shooting (see page 95) 8 EZ FOCUS indication This appears when the EZ FOCUS button is pressed, enabling the EZ focus function.
qa Tape remaining indication This shows the tape remaining as follows.

Indication F-30 30-25 25-20 20-15 15-10 10-5 5-0 5-0 (flashing) Tape remaining At least 30 minutes 25 - 30 minutes 20 - 25 minutes 15 - 20 minutes 10 - 15 minutes 5 - 10 minutes 2 - 5 minutes 0 - 2 minutes
qs VCR warning indication This shows warning indications about operation or status of the VCR.
Indication NO TAPE REC INHIBIT LOW BATT BATT END TAPE NEAR END TAPE END SERVO HUMID RF Meaning There is no tape loaded. The tape is in the recording inhibited state. The battery is almost exhausted. The battery is exhausted. The tape is near the end. The tape is at the end. The servo lock has been lost. There is condensation. The video heads are clogged, or there is some other fault in the recording system. The tape is not wound properly. An incorrect type of cassette has been loaded. (The cassette is automatically ejected and the indication disappears in about two seconds.) Abnormality of the cassette memory data. At back space editing, you are switching from 32 kHz audio recording mode (4-channel mode) to 48 kHz audio recording mode (2-channel mode). At back space editing, you are switching from 48 kHz audio recording mode (2-channel mode) to 32 kHz audio recording mode (4-channel mode). Failure in loading or saving the cassette memory data.
Note
The status indication is not shown while this indication appears. 9 LOW LIGHT indication This warning appears if the lighting level is inadequate. q; Audio recording level indicators These show the recording levels of audio channels 1 and 2.
Channel 1 Channel 2
SLACK MP TAPE
CLIP DATA ERR AUDIO 48kHz (4 flashes/s)
2 dB
0 dB
AUDIO 32kHz (4 flashes/s)
ERROR:91-13F
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Indication CLIP CONT?
Meaning Asking whether you will continue shooting in ClipLink mode or not when the cassette contains ClipLink data. (The indication disappears when you press the ClipLink CONTINUE button or start the next shooting without pressing it.) At ClipLink shooting, capacity for only 1 to 3 clips remains. Impossible to record any more clip shots.
qk Lens f-stop indication This shows the f-stop of the lens.

Notes
CLIP NEAR END CLIP END
Depending on the lens being used, this indication may differ slightly from the actual f-stop on the lens. No indications appear when you use a lens with the 7-pin lens connector. ql Gain indication This shows the gain value, and the settings of the HYPER GAIN switch and the DPR (Dual Pixel Readout) function (see page 90) as shown in the following table.
Example indication 18 dB DPR 18 dB Meaning Gain setting is 18 dB. The DPR function is enabled. In this case the DPR function approximately doubles the gain (an increase of 6 dB) over the current gain setting (in this case 18 dB). The HYPER GAIN switch is in the ON position. In this case the hyper gain function increases the gain by a factor of about 60 with respect to 0 dB regardless of the current gain setting (that is, increased to 36 dB).
Note
If the message appears other than above, contact your Sony dealer. qd External VCR status indication (when an external VCR is connected) Shows the external VCR operation status. qf VCR recording mode indication (when an external VCR is connected) Shows recording mode of the internal and external VCRs set by the VTR TRIGGER switch.
Indication PARA INT EXT Meaning Simultaneous recording of the internal and external VCRs Recording on the internal VCR Recording on the external VCR
HYPER
w; Filter setting indication This shows the setting of the FILTER control.
Indication 3200 56ND 5600 56ND Filter setting 1 (3200K) 2 (5600K + 1/8ND) 3 (5600K) 4 (5600K + 1/64ND)
qg White balance indication The following indications appear.

Indication Meaning EZ ATW W:A W:B W:P W:M Operating in EZ mode (The ATW function is selected.) The ATW function is selected. (The ATW button was pressed and the indicator is lit.) White balance memory A is selected. White balance memory B is selected. Preset white balance is selected. Manual adjustment is performed remotely.
qh SKIN DTL indication This appears when the skin detail function is activated (The SKIN DTL switch is set ON.) qj EVS indication This appears when the EVS (Enhanced Vertical definition System) function is enabled. (See page 110.)
wa Clock indication The clock indication is shown in one of the following ways (according to the CLOCK IND setting of CAM, BARS, or OFF in advanced menu page 8). CAM: Always displayed. BARS: Displayed whenever color bars are displayed. OFF: Not displayed. If the clock indication is displayed during recording, it is recorded onto the image.
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Viewfinder normal Indications
ws Voltage/error indication The current voltage is displayed whenever the power supply voltage dips below 11.3 V DC. However, you can also display the current voltage at any time by pressing and holding the MENU switch in the upward position (the display is shown for as long as you hold the switch upward). An error message is displayed when an abnormality has been detected by the auto diagnostic function (page 87). If there is a voltage drop below 11.3 V DC and an error has been detected, the low voltage indication alternates at one-second intervals with the error indication.
If an error message appears, contact your Sony dealer.
Status Indications
If you set the MENU switch to STATUS while a menu is being displayed, the camcorders current setting status will be shown in this display area.
a) When both the DCC+ and DynaLatitude functions are set to OFF
If using an Anton Bauer Intelligent Battery System The remaining battery capacity is shown as a percentage. wd Shutter setting indication When the SHUTTER switch has been set to ON, the basic menu page 1 setting for the item SHUTTER (shutter speed, CLS frequency, EVS) is displayed here.
Display WHITE
Description White balance adjustment method selection (PRE/A/B) and color temperature during auto white balance adjustment Iris adjustment method selection (STD/SPOT L/BACK L) Setting of the MATRIX switch (page 22) For DCC+ indication: ON with the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch set to CAM/DCC+ (DCC+ ON), and OFF with the switch set to CAM/DL and DL in advanced menu page 2 (page 90) set to OFF (both DCC+ and DynaLatitude OFF). For DL indication: When setting the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to DL and DL in advanced menu page 2 to OFF (DynaLatitude OFF), LOW, STD or HIGH is displayed according to DL LEV setting in basic menu page 2 (page 84).
A.IRIS MATRIX DCC+ or DL
Note
Status indicators will not be displayed during EZ mode.
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Viewfinder Basic Menu

To display the basic menu pages, press the MENU switch downward (to ON position) or press the MENU dial while the normal indications are being shown in the viewfinder. The basic menu configuration can include up to 8 pages. (The configuration depends on the switch settings.)
Contents and Settings of Each Page

Each pages contents and settings are described below.
Basic menu page 1
Basic Menu Operations

The common operations on all basic menu pages are described below.
To change the page or item

The cursor is moved downward each time you press the MENU switch down. Once the cursor has reached the last item on a page, press down the MENU switch to go to the next page. When the last page is being displayed, pressing down the MENU switch returns the display to the normal indications. The cursor is moved upward each time you press up the MENU switch. Once the cursor has reached the first item on a page, pressing up the MENU switch returns the display to the normal indications. The cursor starts blinking when you press the MENU dial. In this state, you can change the page or item by turning the MENU dial.
Item A. IRIS Sets a base value for auto adjustment of lens iris. DTL LEV Sets the detail (edge) emphasis. M. BLACK Sets the master pedestal level. Settings 1.0, 0.5, 0 (normal value), +0.5, +1.0 Negative adjustment values set a narrower lens iris and positive values set a wider lens iris. 99 to 0 (normal value) to +99 Negative adjustment values soften the images edges and positive values sharpen them. 99 to 0 (normal value) to +99 Negative adjustment values make dark areas of the picture darker and increase the contrast. Positive adjustment values dark areas of the picture lighter and reduce the contrast. 16 to 0 (normal value) to +15 This function adjusts the intensity of dark areas of the screen. Negative values make these areas darker (black compress) and positive values make these areas brighter (black stretch).
To change settings
Align the cursor to the desired item using the MENU switch and turn the MENU dial. You can change settings only with the MENU dial. Press and turn the MENU dial to align the cursor to the desired item and press the MENU dial. To reset any item to its shipped settings, press the MENU dial for 2 seconds.
STRETCH Sets black stretch/ compress value.
SHUTTER DSR-300A: 1/100 (normal value), Sets shutter speed 1/250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, or CLS/EVS setting EVS, CLS (60.4 Hz to 200.3 Hz) (see page 110). DSR-300AP: 1/60 (normal value), 1/ 250, 1/500, 1/1000, 1/2000, EVS, CLS (50.3 Hz to 201.4 Hz) This selects either the shutter speed or the scan frequency or EVS for the clear scan function. When the SHUTTER switch is set to OFF, this item cannot be set.
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Basic menu page 2
Item SKIN DTL Sets the amount of skin detail correction. DL LEV Sets the DynaLatitude level. PRE WHT Sets the color temperature of the preset white balance.
Settings 0.0 to 0.5 (normal value) to 1.0 Smaller values set a softer skin detail.
If you set VIDEO IN to EXT and input an external VBS signal from the GEN LOCK IN connector, the image in the viewfinder and the signal output from the MONITOR OUT connector are switched to the external video signal. When inputting an external video signal is input, EXT INPUT always blinks on the screen.
Notes
LOW, STD (normal value), HIGH Set the amount of DynaLatitude effects as high level, standard level (STD), or low level. When the filter is 3200 or CROSS: 2200 to 3200 (normal value) to 4300, filter 5600K, 5600K + 1/8ND When the filter is 5600K + 1/64ND: 4600 to 5600 (normal value) to 12000
When VIDEO IN is set to EXT, video signals are not output from the S VIDEO OUT connector. When VIDEO IN is set to EXT, basic menu page 3 is not displayed.
Basic menu page 4

This menu is displayed only when an external sync signal is input to the VCR connected to the camcorder.
Basic menu page 3

This is displayed when the optional DSBK-501/501P Analog Composite Input Board is fitted to the camcorder.
Item Item Settings CAM (normal value) VIDEO IN Records the signal shot by this Selects the signal to be recorded onto camcorder. the internal VCR. EXT Records the signal input from the GEN LOCK IN/VIDEO IN connector. The image on the viewfinder and the signal output from the MONITOR OUT connector are switched to the external video signal. When inputting the external video signal, EXT INPUT blinks on the screen.
Settings
SC PHASE 000 (normal value) to 999 Sub carrier phase adjustment for when the camcorder is genlocked.a) H. PHASE 000 to 135 (normal value) to 199 Horizontal phase adjustment for when the camcorder is genlocked.a)
a) This applies when using an external sync signal to synchronize operation of several camcorders (see page 45).
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Basic menu page 5
Basic menu page 6
Item MARKER Sets marker display ON/OFF.
Settings ON (normal value), OFF Markers are displayed when this setting is ON and is not displayed when it is OFF. When the setting is ON, go to advanced menu page 4 to select the type of marker (see page 91). 00:00 to 59:59 (minute to second) See Setting the recording time in seconds.
Item
Settings
MARK/CUE MARK (normal value), CUE Selects Mark mode See ClipLink Shooting (page 70). or Cue mode CHG REEL NO Sets the cassette name/number
See To set the cassette name/ number below.
DUR TIME Sets the recording time Setting the recoriding time before shooting helps you with making scenes of equal duration. When shooting with displaying the recording time of the current cut in the viewfinder (with the REC TIME switch set to DUR), the recording time indication flashes to remind you that the recording time has passed.
To set the cassette name/number

Note
When using a cassette without cassette memory, you cannot set the cassette name or number.
1 2
Load a cassette. Press the MENU switch to move the cursor to CHG REEL NO, then press the MENU dial.
Setting the recording time in seconds Move the cursor to DUR TIME, then press the MENU dial. A value of seconds appears.
The cursor () changes to the text entry arrow () and the current cassette name/number is displayed. (NO TAPE is displayed if you neglected to load a cassette.)
If you turn the MENU dial when 59 is displayed, the number under MM increased by one.
Current cassette name/number
(Continued)
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3 4 5 6
Turn the MENU dial until the desired character appears, and press it. Turn the MENU dial to move the text entry arrow. Return to step 3 and repeat the text entry procedure. After completing text entry, move the text entry cursor to the parenthesis position. The display changes as follows.
Entering the title (page 7)
Press the MENU switch or turn the MENU dial as necessary to display basic menu page 7 (title setting display) in the viewfinder.
If a title is already present, it appears on this screen.
2 7
Press and turn the MENU dial until the desired character appears. The character cycles through the following sequence.
Check your cassette name/number setting, and press the MENU dial if no more changes are required. (To make changes or to abort the procedure for this setting, return to step 2.) This writes the new cassette name/number to the cassette memory, after which the display changes as follows.
(Space)
Press the MENU dial when the desired character appears.
Press the MENU dial. This brings up the cursor on the screen, and switches to cursor transport mode.
Initial cursor position
Basic menu pages 7 and 8

You can create a title of up to four lines, each of twelve alphanumeric or punctuation characters, and then save it. It is then possible to record the title over the picture while shooting.
Note
Turn the MENU dial to move the cursor to the position where you wish to insert a character. To reverse the cursor, turn the dial in the opposite direction.
You cannot set the skin detail correction while a title is displayed.
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Repeat steps 2 to 4 until the title is complete.
When CHECK DIAG is displayed

The CHECK DIAG indication appears in the status display area whenever the camcorders automatic self diagnostic function detects an abnormality. Access this page and perform error checking. (This page is displayed as basic menu page 1.) CHECK DIAG will also be displayed if there is a problem on the sync signal input to the GEN LOCK IN connector. Input a proper sync signal and then perform error checking.
Align the cursor to EXIT and press the MENU dial. This displays basic menu page 7 again. The title created is retained, even when you power the camcorder off.
To record a title (page 8)
Access basic menu page 8 (title display). To perform error checking Press the MENU dial. The error checking performs on the digital signal processing (DSP) and memory circuits and the results are displayed. When no error is detected, OK appears. Example: If an abnormality is detected in the DSP circuit. Press the MENU dial once. The title is superimposed to the picture displayed on the viewfinder screen.
3 4
Start shooting. To stop the title recording, press the MENU switch or MENU dial to clear the title display.
DIAGNOSIS DSP : ERROR MEMORY: OK
DIAG ERROR
The error message DIAG ERROR appears when the normal indications are displayed. If this message appears, contact your Sony dealer.
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Viewfinder Advanced Menu

Advanced Menu Operations
See also the figure on next page.
To change settings
This operation is the same as for the basic menus.
For a description of basic menu operations, see page 83.
To display the advanced menu

Move the POWER switch to the ON position while holding down the MENU dial.
To change the page

Align the cursor to the page number and press the MENU dial while the page number is blinking. Turn the dial until the desired page.
To select items in a page

Press the MENU dial to blink the cursor, and press the MENU switch to move the cursor among the menu items. While the cursor is blinking, you can move the cursor by turning the MENU dial.
To reinitialize all settings in the advanced menu to their factory defaults 1) Align the cursor to ALL RESET and press the MENU dial. (The indication changes to ALL RESET SURE?.) 2) Press the MENU dial again. (The indication changes to ALL RESET OK and reinitialization completes.) To cancel the reinitialization, turn the MENU dial (without pressing). The indication returns to ALL RESET.
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Normal indications Move the POWER switch to the ON position with the MENU dial held down. Turn the MENU dial.a) Advanced menu page 1 Advanced menu page 2c) Press the MENU dial.b)
Confirmation screen
Align the cursor to ALL RESET and press the MENU dial. Turn the MENU dial (to cancel resetting).
Turn the MENU dial.a)
Advanced menu page 3c) Press the MENU dial.b)
Press the MENU dial (to reset).
Turn the MENU dial. Turn the MENU dial.a) Advanced menu page 10c)
Turn the MENU dial.a) a) Set the cursor to the page number (blinking) and turn the MENU dial. b) Set the cursor to EXIT MENU and press the MENU dial. c) The menu configuration differs according to the connected accessories such as remote control unit. (Some pages or items may not displayed.)
Press the MENU dial.b)
Contents and Settings of Each Page

Each pages contents and settings are described below.
For details of this operation, see Advanced Menu Operations (page 88).
Advanced menu page 1

Use this page to return all menu settings to their factory preset values.
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a)
For DSR-300AP: EBU75
Item
Settings
Item AWB MEM Selects whether or not to make the FILTER knob settings (1 to 4) correspond to separate white balance adjustment values stored in memory.
Settings 2 (normal value): No correspondence with FILTER knob settings. Only two adjustment values (A and B) are stored in memory. 2 4FL: Correspondence with FILTER knob settings. Each of the four knob settings can be used to set A and B adjustment values, for a total of eight settings. ON (normal value): Output audio signal. OFF: Do not output audio signal.
GAIN This sets gain values for the positions of the GAIN switch. The HIGH, MID, and LOW values must be set so that LOW < MID < HIGH. HIGH Sets the H position. 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB (normal value), 18 dB + DPR, 24 dB, 24 dB + DPR, HYPER GAIN 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB (normal value), 12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB + DPR, 24 dB, 24 dB + DPR 3 dB, 0 dB (normal value), 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB + DPR, 24 dB ON (normal value), OFF When set to ON, the amount of DynaLatitude effects is set in basic menu page 2 (see page 84). For details on the DynaLatitude function, see page 52.
MID Sets the M position.
LOW Sets the L position.

TONE Selects whether or not to output a 1-kHz audio signal with the color bars when the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ has been set to BARS. BARS Selects normal width or narrower width for color bars.
DL Sets DynaLatitude function ON/OFF. This setting is valid only when the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch has been set to DL.
SMPTE (normal value for DSR-300A): Normal width EBU75 (normal value for DSR-300AP): EBU 75% EBU100 (for DSR-300AP): EBU 100% SPLIT (for DSR-300AP): Not for normal operation SNG: Narrower than normal (used for satellite communications, etc.) REC (normal value): Specifies recording start/stop MARK: Specifies a Mark IN/ OUT point. CUE: Specifies a Cue point. NG: Specifies NG/OK. REC: Specifies recording start/stop. MARK (normal value): Specifies a Mark IN/OUT point. CUE: Specifies a Cue point NG: Specifies NG/OK. 9600, 38400 (normal value)
REMOTE1 Sets a function for position 1 of the RM-LG1 connected to the REMOTE connector 1.
REMOTE2 Sets a function for position 2 of the RM-LG1 connected to the REMOTE connector 1.
BAUD RATE Sets a baud rate for a computer connected to the REMOTE connector 1 (to be supported in future version).
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Item VF TALLY Selects whether or not to use more than one REC/TALLY indicators in the viewfinder (displayed only when the DXF-801/801CE/701WS/ 701WSCE viewfinder is attached).
Settings 1: Uses only the upper REC/TALLY indicator. 2 (normal value): Uses two REC/TALLY indicators.
1 (normal value), 2,3,4 LENS SEL Selects the types of the lens. For details, see Designating the lens on page 114.
a) For DSR-300AP: 70%
Item MARKER Selects ON/OFF setting for center marker, size setting (percentage of viewfinder screen area), and display ON/OFF setting.
Settings CENT/90% (normal value): Displays center marker and safety zone marker at 90% size. CENT/80%: Displays center marker and safety zone marker at 80% size. 90%: Displays only safety zone marker at 90% size. 80%: Displays only safety zone marker at 80% size. CENT: Displays only center marker.
ZEBRA 1 (normal value): Displays Selects type of zebra pattern the zebra pattern over parts display. having a video level. between 70 and 90 IRE (or 70 and 90%). Use the next item (ZEBRA1) to select the base level. 2: Displays the zebra pattern over parts having video levels of 100 IRE or above ( or 100% or above). 1/2: Dual display (both 1 and 2) ZEBRA1 Sets base level for zebra pattern 1. 70 IRE (normal value) to 90 IRE or 70% (normal value) to 90% Can be set for each IRE step or 1% step. INT (normal value): Recording time of the internal VCR EXT: Recording time of the external VCR 99 to 0 (normal value) to +99 Negative values set softer edges and positive values set sharper edges.
REC TIME Selects whether to show the recording time (TTL) of the internal VCR or of the external VCR. VF SDTL Sets the detail level of images on the viewfinder screen (displayed when using a viewfinder other than the DXF-801/801CE/701/ 701CE/701WS/701WSCE).
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Item SS INDa) Selects the mode for showing the shutter setting when displaying the normal indications.
Settings 3SEC: Displays shutter setting for three seconds only when the setting has been changed. ALWAYS (normal value): Displays the shutter setting at all times.
Item AUDIO INDa) Selects whether or not to show the audio level indication on the normal indications. TAPE INDa) Selects whether or not to show the remaining tape indication on the normal indications.
Settings ON (normal value): Displays. OFF: Not display.
ON (normal value): LL INDa) Selects whether or not to Displays. show the LOW LIGHT OFF: Not display. indication on the normal indications when inadequate lighting is detected. IRIS INDa) ON (normal value): Selects whether or not to Displays. show the lenss F-stop value OFF: Not display. (iris indication) on the normal indications. The Fstop value is always displayed when in EZ mode. GAIN IND Selects whether or not to always show the gain setting indication on the normal indications. FILTER INDa) Selects whether or not to always show the FILTER knob setting indication on the normal indications. The FILTER knob setting indication is always displayed when in EZ mode.
a)
ON (normal value): Displays. OFF: Not display.
TC INDa) ON (normal value): Selects whether or not to Displays. show the time data indication OFF: Not display. on the normal indications. ID INDa) Selects whether or not to display the camera ID when displaying color bars. ID SETa) Sets the camera ID (up to eight characters, including alphanumerics, symbols, and spaces). ON (normal value): Displays. OFF: Not display.
ON (normal value): Always displays. OFF: displays for two seconds only when the setting has been changed. ON (normal value): Always displays. OFF: Displays for two seconds only when the setting has been changed.
See To set the camera ID below.
a) When the viewfinders DISPLAY switch is set to OFF, indications related to these items are not displayed even when menu settings are set to ON.
To set the camera ID
Press the MENU switch or turn the MENU dial to move the cursor to ID SET. The cursor () changes to the text entry arrow ().
WHITE INDa) ON (normal value): Displays. Selects whether or not to OFF: Not display. show the setting of the white balance switch. SKIN INDa) Selects whether or not to show the setting for skin detail correction. ON (normal value): Displays. OFF: Not display.
Current camera ID
a) When the viewfinders DISPLAY switch is set to OFF, indications related to these items are not displayed even when menu settings are set to ON.
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Press and turn the MENU dial to move the text entry arrow. Turn the MENU dial upward to move the cursor to the right or downward to move it to the left.
Item
Settings
A.IRIS-AE F5.6 , F8, F11, F16 (normal Selects auto iris adjustment value) which sets an F-stop value that can be switched to AE (displayed only when the EZ MODE is set to CUSTOM). AGC LIMIT Sets an upper limit value for AGC adjustment (displayed only when the EZ MODE is set to CUSTOM). 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB (normal value)
Press and turn the MENU dial to enter the desired characters. The displayed character changes as you turn the dial.
4 5
Return to step 2 and repeat the text entry procedure. When you have finished entering the text, press and turn the MENU dial to move the cursor to the parenthesis position. This clears the displayed menu and returns to the normal indications.
EZ mode settings The following settings are set for the camcorder when EZ mode has been selected.
Item Matrix Detail level Master black Black stretch Skin detail Shutter Freeze mix Gain Hyper gain Iris control method Auto iris control mode Iris override Color bar output AGC upper limit AEs F stop value ATW DynaLatitude DCC+ F-stop value indication Filter indication Clock indication Settings STD STD 0 0 0 OFF OFF AGC mode OFF Automatic STD 0 Not output 12dB F16 ON OFF ON ON ON OFF CUSTOM Selectable Selectable Selectable Selectable OFF OFF
OFF (AE mode) OFF (AE mode) AGC mode OFF Automatic STD Selectable Not output Selectable Selectable Selectable ON OFF ON ON ON OFF
a) At shipping, the EZ MODE is set to STD.
AGCs F stop value F2.8 Item EZ MODE When the EZ MODE button has been set to EZ mode ON, this selects whether or not to change the settings of other switches and menus to the standard settings. (The EZ mode function cannot be used during remote operation.) Settings STD (normal value): Changes settings to standard settings. CUSTOM: Changes only some settings to standard settings. For details of the settings when STD or CUSTOM is specified, see EZ mode settings on next column.
A.IRIS-AGC F1.4, F2, F2.8 (normal Selects auto iris adjustment value), F4, F5.6 which sets an F-stop value that can be switched to AGC (displayed only when the EZ MODE is set to CUSTOM).
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Item CLOCK IND Selects whether or not to display the date/time on the normal indications. DATE MODE Selects the date display format.
Settings OFF (normal value): Not display. CAM: Displays. BARS: Displays only when color bars are displayed. YY. MM. DD. (normal value): Year/month/day MM. DD. YY.: Month/day/ year DD. MM. YY.: Day/month/ year
Item M.BLACK and STRETCH M.GAMMA Adjusts the gamma curve. DTL LEV Adjusts the detail. V DTL LEV Adjusts the vertical detail. DTL FREQ Adjusts the central frequency of the detail.
Settings
See Basic menu page 1 (page 83).

99 to 0 (normal value) to +99 99 to 0(normal value) to +99 99 to 0 (normal value) to +99 LL, L, M (normal value), H, HH
TIME MODE 12hours: 12-hour clock Selects whether to display a 24hours (normal value): 12-hour clock (showing A.M. 24-hour clock and P.M. hours) or a 24-hour clock.
Note
Use the VCR menu to set the date and time (see page 99).
Item
Settings
SAT 99 to 0 (normal value) to Adjusts the saturation of the +99 image. Negative adjustment values decrease the saturation and positive adjustment values increase the saturation. HUE Adjusts the hue of the image. 99 to 0 (normal value) to +99
SKIN SAT 99 to 0 (normal value) to Adjusts the saturation in the +99 specified area of the image. Negative adjustment values decrease the saturation and positive adjustment values increase the saturation. SKIN HUE 99 to 0 (normal value) to Adjusts the hue in the +99 specified area of the image.
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Using SetupLog
The SetupLog function records camcorder settings every few seconds at shooting and displays the recorded data in the viewfinder during playback.
Note
Status display (page 2)
Setup log data is not displayed when external analog video signals are being recorded. To view the SetupLog Data, perform the following procedure.
Status display (page 3)
1 2 3
Turn the power on and load the tape that contains the recording to be viewed. Play back the tape.
For details of playback operation, see page 63.
Press the MENU switch upward (to STATUS position). The display changes to page 1 of the status display.
Note
Settings during recording
In the following cases, changed settings that were not recorded may appear as blank settings. SetupLog data is overwritten at intervals of a few seconds during recording. If the settings are changed frequently for certain items, it may not always be recorded in time. If the recording time is very short, recording may end before all of the data has been overwritten.
Each time you press upward the MENU switch, the status display cycles through the status pages and playback display in the order: page 2, page 3, the playback display (containing the current settings), and page 1.
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Chapter
Setting on the VCR Section VCR Menu

You can use the VCR menu for settings on the VCR section.
Operation Real time clock and calendar settings Cumulative hour counts: Head drum operating hours Tape transport hours Operating (power-on) hours Frame mode selection for time code (DSR-300A only) Battery capacity indication selection Standby-on period setting Use auto-check function Selection of ClipLink function Audio recording mode selection Audio reference level selection Fade-in/fade-out setting for the audio recording start and stop points Use setup add (DSR-300A only) Use setup remove (DSR-300A only) Menu No. 101 201 Reference Page 99 Page 99
204 206 207 210 211 212 213 214 220 221
Page 99 Page 100 Page 100 Page 101 Page 103 Page 103 Page 104 Page 104 Page 105 Page 105
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VCR Menu Operation

Basic Operation
Display window
WARNING
LIGHT
PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

H MIN SEC
HOLD
FRM
OVER
dB
OVER
0 -12 -20
ON OFF
RESET
5 1,6
REC TIME SKIN DTL
TTL DUR OFF ON COMPONENT. VBS OFF Y/C
(MENU SET)
-30 -40
DISPLAY
COUNTER TC U-BIT
F 8 32k F 8 48k
2,4
EXT VTR OUTPUT MENU ADVANCE SHIFT
AUDIO LEVEL
MONITOR SELECT
MIX EXT CH-1 CH-2
TTL RESET
SET
VTR TRIGGER

ON OFF
AUTO MAN
3,4
LITHIUM BATT
AUDIO SELECT
HYPER GAIN
ON OFF
MATRIX
H.SAT FL STD
FRONT MIC LOW CUT
ClipLink CONTINUE
CH-1
FRONT
CH-2
AUDIO IN
ON OFF
Press the MENU button. DIAG appears in the display window and the time data display in the display window switches to the menu display.
Change the settings.

Operation Select digit to be changed Change the value Step Press the SHIFT button. Press the ADVANCE button.
Chapter 5 Adjustments and Settings
Menu No. (blinking) Year (factory-set to 1999)
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button. This records the new setting and returns to a blinking display of the menu number.
2 3
Press the ADVANCE button repeatedly until the desired menu appears. Press the SHIFT button. This shows the current settings for the menu selected by step 2. The setting can be changed for the digit that is blinking. To exit from changing settings Press the MENU button to close the menu.
Press the MENU button. This returns the display window to the display shown before the VCR menu.
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Setting the Real Time Clock and Calendar

Menu 101
Display menu 101 and press the SHIFT button. The current calendar setting appears in the setting mode format (yyyymmdd). Example: October 8, 2000
On the DSR-300A: Displayed in mmddyyyy format (Example: 10081998) On the DSR-300AP: Displayed in ddmmyyyy format (Example: 08101998)
Checking the Total Operating (Power-On) Hours

Menu 201
1
Blinking
Display menu 201 and press the SHIFT button. Pressing the SHIFT button cycles through the following display items.
Note
The first two digits of the year setting cannot be changed.
Indication Head drum operating hours Tape transport hours Total operating hours Menu number
Example A 0492Hr b 0480Hr C 0853Hr 201 0492
Use the SHIFT and ADVANCE buttons to set the desired date.
2
If there are no more new settings to be made, go directly to step 5.
Check the indication, then press the RESET/ (MENU SET) button, followed by the MENU button. This returns the display window to the display shown before the VCR menu.
Press the SHIFT button while the date display is blinking (Example: 20001008). The current time (real time clock) setting is displayed. Example: 10:15:05 PM
Menu 204
Selecting Frame Mode (DF/NDF) for Time Code (for DSR-300A only)
Blinking
4 5 6
Use the SHIFT and ADVANCE buttons to set the current time. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button. This starts the clock advance operation. Press the MENU button. This returns the display window to the display shown before the VCR menu. The date set can be displayed in the time value indication (see page 64) in the following way.
Select frame modes when setting the time code. Drop-frame mode (factory setting): When adjusting the discrepancy between time code value and real time Non-drop-frame mode: When you need not adjust the discrepancy between time code value and real time
For details of time code settings, see page 66.
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VCR Menu Operation
Display menu 204. The menu number and the current frame mode setting are shown. Example: dF (drop-frame mode)
If the setting does not need to be changed, press the MENU button to close the menu.
Press the SHIFT button until the desired battery name is displayed, then press the ADVANCE button. Pressing the ADVANCE button cycles through the following indications. nI y LI y Antn y Auto
Indication Auto (factory setting) Meaning Automatic detection of battery type. Indication for NP-1B/BP-90A battery is selected. Indication for BP-L40/L40A/L60/ L60A/L90/L90A battery is selected. Indication for Anton Bauer Magnum battery is selected a).
Blinking Frame mode indication
nI LI
Press the SHIFT button to make the frame mode start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button. This switches the frame mode display as shown below. Example: ndF (non-drop-frame mode)
Antn
a) To use the Anton Bauer Magnum Battery System, a special battery mount developed by Anton Bauer Corporation is required. For details, contact an Anton Bauer dealer or your Sony dealer.
Blinking
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and the display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
3
Menu 207
Setting Standby-On
Period
Menu 206
Selecting Battery Capacity Indication
This selects the indication type of battery capacity.
At recording pause state, the camcorder waits for a certain standby-on period and then automatically switches to standby-off mode. This standby-on period can be set in advance.
1 Display menu 206.

The selected menu number is displayed, along with the name of the currently selected battery. Example: nI (Indication for the NP-1B/BP-90A)
Display menu 207. The selected menu number is displayed, along with the current standby-on period setting (in minutes).
Blinking Selected battery capacity indication
100
Example: 8 minutes
To perform the auto-check
1
Blinking Standby-on period
Display menu 210.
Blinking
Auto-check function indication
Press the SHIFT button until the standby-on period starts blinking, then press the ADVANCE button. Each press of the ADVANCE button changes the setting as follows. 08 (factory setting) y 01 y 03 y 05
Press the SHIFT button to make the auto-check function indication (oFF) start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button to change the indication to on. To cancel the auto-check function, press the MENU button to close the menu.
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button. This changes the display and opens the cassette holder. If there is a cassette in the holder, it is ejected (except during recording).
Using Auto-Check Function

Menu 210 On the DSR-300A/300AP, the internal check can be automatically performed using the auto-check function. Meanwhile, a test recording and playback are also performed for about 1 minute. Before shooting, it is desirable to perform auto-check and make sure for problems in VCRs internal operations through the result of the internal check displayed in the display window and the video and audio recording qualities.
Blinking
Insert the cassette and close the cassette holder. The display changes to the following, and the tape is loaded.
Blinking
Use the tape transport buttons to change the tape position for test recording if necessary, or advance to step 6.
(Continued)
Preparations for testing

Make preparations as shown in the table below.
Preparation Refer to Connect a monitor to the MONITOR OUT or S Page 25 VIDEO OUT connector Connect an earphone or headphones to the EARPHONE connector Prepare a cassette for test recording/playback Page 15 Page 55
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VCR Menu Operation
Press the VTR button on the camcorder or lens. Test recording starts. The display changes as shown below during recording. (The hyphen following At moves to right.)
Confirming the result

The result of the internal check is displayed in code as shown in the table below. When a problem is indicated, follow the instructions to check the camcorder and cassette. If no errors can be found, contact your Sony dealer. Also, be sure to check the quality of the playback video and audio (see step 7).
Display At good Diagnostic result VCRs internal operations are normal. If the video and audio recording qualities are normal, the unit is ready for use. There may be a problem in the VCR or the cassette. Contact your Sony dealer. There may be a problem in VCRs internal operations or data loading from the tape. Clean the video heads using the DVM-12CL Cleaning Cassette (see page 121) and repeat the auto-check. If the result is the same, contact your Sony dealer. There may be a problem in the link between the camera and VCR sections. If not, correct the error and repeat the auto-check. If the result is the same, contact your Sony dealer. Check whether the REC/SAVE switch is set to SAVE. If so, repeat the auto-check with setting the switch to REC or using another cassette whose REC/SAVE switch is set to REC. If the result is the same, contact your Sony dealer. Check whether a cassette is inserted. If not, insert a cassette and repeat the auto-check. If the result is the same, contact your Sony dealer. If the video and audio recording qualities are normal, the unit is ready for use. However, the unit requires service. It is desirable to consult your Sony dealer. The test recording or playback and internal check have aborted (when a tape transport button was pressed during recording or playback or when the tape ended). To resume the auto-check, press the MENU button to close the menu and perform the procedure described in the previous section To perform the auto-check.
After about 1 minute, the tape is rewound to the recording start position and playback starts. The following is displayed during playback.
At ng-01 At ng-02
Check the recording quality of the playback video on the viewfinder or monitor screen. Check the recording quality of the playback audio from the earphone or headphones. If the recording quality is poor There may be some kind of problem whether or not it is detected by the internal check. Refer to the section Troubleshooting(page 124) and repeat the test. If the recording quality remains poor, contact your Sony dealer.
At ng-03
At ng-04
At ng-05
When playback ends, the internal check result is displayed and the camcorder enters recording pause mode.
o-HAUL
At Abort
After confirming the result (see the next section Confirming the result), press the MENU button. The display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
102
Menu 211
Selecting ClipLink Function
Selecting Audio Recording Mode

Menu 212 The audio recording mode can be set to either of the following modes. 48-kHz mode (factory setting): Enables twochannel recording mode with 48-kHz sampling frequency. 32-kHz mode: Enables four-channel recording mode with 32-kHz sampling frequency (for CH-1 and CH-2).
This setting must be made when not using the ClipLink function.
For details of the ClipLink function, see ClipLink Shooting (page 70).
Display menu 211. The ClipLink function is factory-set to on.
1
Blinking ClipLink function on/oFF indication
Display menu 212. The menu number and current audio recording mode is displayed. Example: 48 (2-channel mode with 48-kHz sampling frequency)
Blinking
Press the SHIFT button to make the ClipLink function on/oFF indication start blinking. Press the ADVANCE button to change the indication to oFF. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
Audio recording mode indication
Press the SHIFT button to make the audio recording mode indication start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button. This switches the mode setting to the other audio recording mode. Example: 32 (4-channel mode with 32-kHz sampling frequency)
Blinking
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
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VCR Menu Operation
Selecting Audio Reference Level

Menu 213 The audio reference level can be set to either of the following. 20 dB (factory setting for DSR-300A) or 18 dB (factory setting for DSR-300AP): Audio reference level for professional use 12 dB: Audio reference level commonly used for consumer DV (The maximum level is 0 dB.)
Changing the audio reference level setting from 20 dB (or 18 dB) to 12 dB increases the audio recording level by 8 dB (or 6 dB) whether the AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switch is set to AUTO or MAN.
Menu 214 Setting Fade-In/FadeOut for the Audio Recording Start and Stop Points You can reduce noise at back space editing points (if necessary) by setting the fade-in/fade-out to on. The fade-in/fade-out transition time is within one frame (1/30 seconds for DSR-300A or 1/25 seconds for DSR300AP).
Display menu 213. The menu number and current audio reference level is displayed. Example: 20 dB (for DSR-300A) or 18 dB (for DSR-300AP)
a)
1
Blinking Audio reference level indication a) For DSR-300AP: 18
Display Menu 214. The fade-in/fade-out is factory-set to oFF.
Blinking
Fade-in/fade-out setting indication
2 Press the SHIFT button to make the audio

reference level display start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button. This switches the setting to the other audio reference level. Example: 12 dB
2 3
Press the SHIFT button to make the fade-in/fadeout setting indication start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button to change the setting to on. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and the display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
Blinking
Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu. When using the camcorder in a editing system containing both consumer DV and professional equipment, setting the audio reference level to 12 dB is recommended.
104
Using Setup Add (for DSR-300A Only)

Menu 220 Use this menu to add setup to the playback video signals.
Using Setup Remove (for DSR-300A Only)

Menu 221 Use this menu to remove setup from a video signal which contains setup (when the DSBK-501/501P is fitted).
Display menu 220. The setup add is factory-set to oFF.
Display menu 221. Setup remove is factory-set to on.
Blinking Setup add on/oFF indication Blinking Setup remove on/oFF indication
2 3
Press the SHIFT button to make the setup add on/ oFF indication start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button to change the setting to on. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
2 3
Press the SHIFT button to make the setup remove on/oFF indication start blinking, then press the ADVANCE button to change the setting to on. Press the RESET/(MENU SET) button and then the MENU button. The settings are recorded and display window returns to the display shown before the VCR menu.
Note
During recording the signal of the image being shot contains setup add, when it is output from the camcorders S VIDEO OUT and MONITOR OUT connectors. During playback, the setup is removed from the output video signal. To have the setup added during playback, set the setup add to on.
Note
Even if you set setup remove to on, the video signals output from the camcorders MONITOR OUT connector during recording will contain setup. However, signals with setup removed are recorded onto tape.
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White Balance Adjustment

Adjusting the white balance ensures that as lighting conditions change white objects remain white in the image and tones remain natural. The color of light emitted varies from one light source to another, and as the lighting changes the apparent color of an illuminated subject changes. It is therefore, necessary to adjust the white balance each time the principal lighting source changes.
Make the following settings. POWER switch: ON OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch: one of the CAM positions Lens iris selector: A (automatic) ATW button: off Set the FILTER control according to the lighting conditions. (See page 51.) Set the W. BAL switch to A or B. Arrange a white subject (paper, cloth, etc.) under the same lighting conditions as for shooting, and zoom in on it so that as far as possible the whole screen is white. The minimum white area requirements for the adjustment are shown in the following figure.
Area of white within this rectangle should be equivalent to at least 10% of the image area.
2 3 4
Saving an Appropriate White Balance Value in Memory

You can save two white balance values in separate memories, A and B. Unless changed, the saved values are retained for approximately ten years, even when the camcorder is turned off. Once a value is saved, you can automatically restore the adjustment by moving the W. BAL switch to the A or B position. This makes shooting under alternating lighting conditions easy.
Center of the screen
Separate white balance values for each FILTER control setting

In the default case, as described above, the same two A and B white balance values apply to all four settings of the FILTER control. It is possible, however, to change the AWB MEM setting in advanced menu page 3 (see page 90) so that there are eight possibly different values for the A and B positions.
approximately 70% of the height of the image approximately 70% of the width of the image
21
Push the WHT/BLK switch in the WHT direction and release. The white balance adjustment is carried out. During the adjustment the legend AUTO WHITE -OP- appears in the viewfinder. After a few seconds the adjustment is complete, and the legend in the viewfinder changes to AUTO WHITE -OK- plus a color temperature, as shown in the following figure.
5 1
3
The adjustment value is automatically saved in memory A or B as selected above.
106
To save the white balance adjustment for different lighting conditions, repeat steps 2 to 4 above. You can save two different values for the white balance, in memories A and B.
Note
Message AUTO WHITE -NG:C.TEMP.HI CHG.FILTER TRY AGAIN
Meaning and corrections to be made The color temperature is too high. Try the following, in this order of precedence. (1) If the FILTER control is in position 1, change it to position 2, 3 or 4, then retry the adjustment. (2) Check that the subject is completely white, then retry the adjustment. (3) The color temperature may be outside the range of the camcorder. Fit an appropriate color temperature conversion filter, then retry the adjustment.
The color temperature display is an approximate guide. There is a margin of error in the displayed color temperature when the white balance is adjusted on another DSR-300A/300AP, camera, or camcorder, even under the same conditions. The margin of error is higher for higher temperatures. To recall a white balance value from memory Before beginning shooting, set the W. BAL switch to the A or B position. This automatically sets the camcorder to the white balance adjustment saved in the corresponding memory. If white balance adjustment cannot be completed automatically The warning message AUTO WHITE -NG- appears in the viewfinder. Make the necessary corrections, then carry out the process again.
Warning messages for white balance adjustment Message AUTO WHITE -NG:LOW LIGHT TRY AGAIN Meaning and corrections to be made Light level is too low. Increase the illumination level, open the iris, or use the GAIN switch to increase the video signal level. Check the setting of the FILTER control. After these checks, retry the adjustment. The subject is not white, or the lighting level is too high. Use a white subject. Lower the illumination level, stop down the iris, or use the GAIN switch to decrease the video signal level. Check the setting of the FILTER control. After these checks, retry the adjustment. The color temperature is too low. Try the following, in this order of precedence. (1) If the FILTER control is in position 2, 3 or 4, change it to position 1, then retry the adjustment. (2) Check that the subject is completely white, then retry the adjustment. (3) The color temperature may be outside the range of the camcorder. Fit an appropriate color temperature conversion filter, then retry the adjustment.
WHITE:PRESET The W. BAL switch is in the PRESET position. Move the W. BAL switch to the A or B position. BARS The camcorder is outputting a color bar signal. Move the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to one of the CAM positions.
Using the Preset White Balance Settings

The camcorder provides preset white balance settings, for instant shooting with approximately the correct adjustment. There are also particular shooting conditions under which the preset values may give better results than the human eye adjustment.
1 2
Set the W. BAL switch to PRESET. Set the FILTER control. The white balance is automatically adjusted for 3200 K when the FILTER control is in position 1 and for 5600 K in position 2, 3 or 4. You can change those values (3200 K and 5600 K) to other values in basic menu page 2 (See page 84).
AUTO WHITE -NG: ?? TRY AGAIN
AUTO WHITE -NG:C.TEMP.LOW CHG.FILTER TRY AGAIN
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White Balance Adjustment
Light Sources and Color Temperature

Adjustment of the white balance to match the light source is essential to ensure correct color rendering. The color of a light source is indicated as a color temperature in kelvins (K). It is higher for bluish light, and lower for reddish light. When the camcorder is shipped it is adjusted for use with video lights (studio lamps with a color temperature of 3200 K). For use with other light sources, therefore, adjustment is required. First use the FILTER control to set the approximate color temperature, then carry out white balance adjustment. The following table shows typical color temperature values for different light sources.
Color temperatures of different light sources Color temperature (K) Light source Natural Clear sky Light cloud Cloudy or rainy skies Fluorescent light (daylight white) Direct sunlight, noon
Using the ATW (Auto Tracing White Balance) Function

The ATW function continuously adjusts the white balance automatically to adapt to changes in lighting conditions.
Note
Depending on the shooting conditions, automatic adjustment may not necessarily give optimum results. For the best possible results, use the W. BAL switch. To use the ATW function Press the ATW button turning the indicator on. This activates the ATW function, and the ATW indication appears in the viewfinder. To disable the ATW function, press the ATW button again, turning the indicator off. If the ATW function does not operate correctly A warning message appears in the viewfinder as shown in the table below.
Message :C.TEMP.LOW Meaning and correction to be made If the FILTER control is in position 2, 3 or 4, change it to position 1, then retry the ATW operation. If the FILTER control is in position 1, change it to position 2, 3 or 4, then retry the ATW operation.
Artificial M Blue light M 10,000 8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 m White light M 4,000 3,500 m Yellow light M 3,200 3,000 2,500
:C.TEMP.HIGH
Mercury lighting Fluorescent light (white)
One hour after sunrise or before sunset
Fluorescent light (warm white) Studio lighting Halogen lamps and video lights
Thirty minutes after sunrise or before sunset Sunrise or sunset
Incandescent lighting Sodium streetlighting Candlelight m Red light
2,000
108
Black Balance Adjustment

Correct adjustment of the black balance is important for optimum operation of a camcorder. It is necessary when using the camcorder for the first time or after a significant period out of use, and also when there has been a sudden change in temperature. The adjustment value is saved in memory, and readjustment is not normally necessary after powering the camcorder off or simply when lighting conditions change. If black balance adjustment cannot be completed automatically The warning message AUTO BLACK -NG- appears in the viewfinder. Make the necessary corrections, then carry out the process again.
Warning messages for black balance adjustment Message AUTO BLACK -NG: IRIS NOT CLOSED TRY AGAIN AUTO BLACK -NG: ?? TRY AGAIN BARS Meaning and corrections to be made The lens iris did not close fully. Check whether the lens cable is connected properly, and whether there is a fault in the lens. If a second attempt to carry out the adjustment fails, consult your Sony dealer. The iris opened during adjustment or there is a hardware error. Close the iris and try again. If this fails, consult your Sony dealer. The camcorder is outputting a color bar signal. Move the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to one of the CAM positions.
1 2
Turn on the power and check that the OUTPUT/ DL/DCC+ switch is in one of the CAM positions. Push the WHT/BLK switch in the BLK direction and release. The lens iris closes, and black balance adjustment is carried out. During the adjustment the legend AUTO BLACK -OP- appears in the viewfinder.
After a few seconds the adjustment is complete, and the legend in the viewfinder changes to AUTO BLACK -OK-.
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Shutter Settings
This section covers the settings for electronic shutter speed, CLS (clear scan ) and EVS function. The new value for the shutter speed or clear scan frequency and EVS setting remains set until changed, even when the camcorder is powered off. Shutter speeds There are five shutter speeds, from 1/100 s (DSR-300A) or 1/60 s (DSR-300AP) to 1/2000 s. Increasing the shutter speed reduces blurring when shooting a fast-moving subject. It is also possible to reduce flicker when shooting under fluorescent lighting by changing the shutter speed. CLS (Clear Scan) function When shooting a computer screen or projected image, horizontal bands may appear in the camcorder image. This is because the vertical scan frequency of the computer-generated image is different from the vertical scan frequency of the video system. The clear scan function allows you to select a vertical scan frequency to reduce this interference. EVS (Enhanced Vertical Scan) This function enhances the vertical scan resolution from 400 to 450 lines (or 450 to 530 lines) to reduce flicker. However, this increases the aliasing.
1 1
Set the SHUTTER switch to the ON position. The SHUTTER indicator in the viewfinder comes on, and it is now possible to change the shutter speed or clear scan frequency setting and to set the EVS function. (If the EVS is already selected, the SHUTTER indicator will not light.)
Operate the MENU switch and MENU dial to align the cursor with the item SHUTTER in basic menu page 1.
Setting the shutter speed, CLS and EVS function

Notes on setting the shutter speed
The faster you make the shutter speed, the darker the image becomes. Check the brightness in the viewfinder, and if necessary increase the lighting level or adjust the iris. When the shutter speed is very fast, shooting a high intensity subject may cause long vertical tails to appear on the highlights (smear).
Note on setting the CLS function
Turn the MENU dial to select the required shutter speed, scan frequency or EVS. The shutter speed or clear scan frequency setting changes in the following order:
1/100
DSR-300A
1/250 1/500 1/1000 1/2000 EVS
The vertical scan frequencies of computer screens vary, and it may not be possible to eliminate the interference patterns entirely. Note also that the vertical scan frequency may change depending on the software being run.
(Value when shipped) 1/60
DSR-300AP
200.3Hz 60.4Hz 201.4Hz 50.3Hz
DSR-300A
DSR-300AP
110
When using the clear scan function Watching the monitor screen, adjust the frequency to give minimum interference. If there is a black band in the monitor image, reduce the frequency, and if there is a white band, increase the frequency. To return from the basic menu to the normal indications Press the MENU switch as many times as necessary until the normal indications appear. The new setting of the shutter speed or clear scan frequency appears in the normal screen display. When shooting is finished Set the SHUTTER switch to the OFF position. The SHUTTER indicator in the viewfinder goes off.
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Viewfinder Screen Adjustments

The following adjustments are provided to improve the visibility of the viewfinder screen. Although these adjustments may make the viewfinder image clearer, they have no effect on the output video signal from the camcorder.
BRIGHT control CONTRAST control PEAKING control Eyepiece focusing knob
Contrast and brightness adjustment

Carry out these adjustments with the color bars displayed.
1 2 3
Set the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to the BARS position. The color bars appear in the viewfinder. Watching the color bars, turn the CONTRAST and BRIGHT controls to adjust the contrast and brightness. Return the OUTPUT/DL/DCC+ switch to its original position.
OUTPUT/DL/ DCC+ switch
Outline emphasis adjustment

Turning the PEAKING control changes the degree of outline emphasis in the viewfinder image, to make focusing easier.
Adjusting the eyepiece focus

Depending on the eyesight of the operator whether longsighted or shortsighted the optimal position of the viewfinder image varies. Adjust the eyepiece focus to get the clearest viewfinder image for your eyesight. First focus the image with the lens, then adjust the eyepiece focusing knob. The adjustment range is from 3 to 0 diopters1) (default when shipped is 0 diopters). Using an optional part allows you to modify the adjustment range to 2 to +1 diopters or 0.5 to +3 diopters.
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) Diopter: A unit to indicate the degree of convergence or divergence of a bundle of rays.
112
Adjusting the Lens

Flange Focal Length Adjustment
It is necessary to adjust the flange focal length (the distance from the lens flange to the plane of the image along the optical axis) in the following cases. When a lens is fitted for the first time After changing lenses When during zoom operations the focus does not match properly from telephoto to wide angle
4,11
About 3 m (10 feet)
9
AM
Flange focal length adjustment test chart

T
IRIS
RET
7 5
ZOOM SERVO MANU.
1 2 3
Set the IRIS selector to the M position. Turn the iris ring to f/1.4 (fully open). Place the supplied flange focal length adjustment test chart at a range of about 3 meters (10 feet), and adjust the lighting so that an appropriate video output level is obtained with the iris at f/1.4. Loosen the F.B fixing knob. Set the ZOOM selector to the MANU. position. Turn the zoom ring to the telephoto position.
7 8 9
Turn the focus ring so that the test chart is in focus. Turn the zoom ring to the wide angle position. Turn the F.B fixing ring so that the test chart is in focus. Do not move the focusing ring.
10Repeat steps 6 to 9 until the image stays in focus

from telephoto to wide angle.
4 5 6
11After adjustment, tighten the screw of the F.B

fixing knob.
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113
Adjusting the Lens
Iris Adjustments
Iris ring
AM
IRIS
There are three ways of adjusting the iris: automatically, manually, and with the instant automatic iris adjustment function.
Iris adjustment Adjustment method Operation Automatic adjustment mode Set the iris selector to the A position. The iris is adjusted automatically to adapt to changes in the brightness of the subject. This is the mode for normal shooting. Manual adjustment mode Use this mode in the following cases: For special effects When filming a person with a very bright sky background When shooting a subject with extreme contrast The zebra pattern can be used as a guideline for iris adjustment. Instant automatic adjustment function While in manual adjustment mode, this function makes a temporary automatic adjustment. Set the iris selector to the M position and turn the iris ring as required.
RET
Instant automatic iris button Iris selector ZEBRA button A.IRIS MODE switch
To make the image clearer when shooting a subject lit by a spotlight In the automatic iris adjustment mode, set the A.IRIS MODE switch to SPOT L, turning the indicator on.
Using the zebra pattern in manual adjustment mode

To use the zebra pattern as a guideline for iris adjustment in manual adjustment mode, press the ZEBRA button to set it on. Select the zebra pattern to be displayed in advanced menu page 4 (see page 91). When the subject is a person Adjust the iris manually so that the zebra pattern appears on the highlights of the subjects face. For other subjects Adjust the iris manually so that the zebra pattern appears on the most important parts of the subject.
With the iris selector in the M position, hold down the instant automatic iris button for as long as necessary.
Designating the lens

You have to designate the lens number according to the types of your lens. If the number is not designated properly, other colors may appear on the upper and lower of the screen when shooting a white subject. Set the number in advanced menu page 4 (page 91) according to the following table.
To make the image lighter when shooting against the light In the automatic iris adjustment mode, set the A.IRIS MODE switch to BACK L, turning the indicator on.
114
Product Fujinon: VCL-714, S16X6.7B Canon: YH18X6.7KRS Fujinon: S15X6.1BE, S16X6.7BE, S19X6.5B, S19X6.5BE, S20X6.1BE Canon: YH18X6.7IRS, H21aX5.8 H15aX6, H9aX3.8 Set up the data with Sony dealer. Set up the data with Sony dealer.
Lens number 1 2
Macrophotography
Use the macro function when the subject is less than about 1.1 m (4 feet) (for the VCL-718BX) from the front of the lens. It is possible to shoot close-ups down to a range of 10 mm (wide angle, f = 7.5 mm).
3 4
2 1
If you use the lens that is not mentioned above, set the lens number as follows: When using a lens without an extender, set it to 1. When using a lens with an extender, set it to 2. When using a lens with a ratio converter, set it to 2. You can also ask a Sony dealer more precise settings, according to your lens. In this case, set it to 3 or 4.
4
SERVO
ZOOM
Adjusting the Iris Sensitivity

When you use the VCL-718BX or VCL-714BXA lens, you usually need not adjust the iris sensitivity because lenses are equipped with iris sensitivity adjustment function. In auto iris mode, if hunting or response delay happens, adjust the iris sensitivity using the iris sensitivity trimmer.
Iris sensitivity trimmer (S or IRIS GAIN is indicated.)
MANU.
1 2 3 4
Bring the lens up to the subject so that the image is the required size. Move the focusing ring to the closest focus position. Slide the M button toward the rear of the camcorder, and turn the MACRO ring fully in the direction shown by the arrow. Move the ZOOM selector to the MANU. position, and turn the manual zoom control to focus the image.
IRIS GAIN
Ending close-up shooting Return the MACRO ring to its original position (turn fully in the opposite direction to the arrow in the figure). You can see the iris sensitivity trimmer when removing the gum cap on the front of the lens driving unit. Use a mini-screwdriver to turn the trimmer. If you turn it clockwise, the sensitivity increases, and if you turn it counterclockwise, the sensitivity decreases. It is recommended that you confirm the iris sensitivity after replacing the lens.
For more information, refer to the operating instructions for the lens (or consult the lens maker).
Reducing the size of the image After completing steps 1 to 4 above, if you wish to reduce the size of the image, turn the MACRO ring back slightly, then use the manual zoom control again to focus the image.
115
Settings for Special Cases

Settings for special cases Shooting conditions The background is very bright, and the subject is too dark. The subject is under a spotlight. Setting Effect
Set the A.IRIS MODE switch to BACK L, This lightens the foreground. turning the indicator on. Set the A.IRIS MODE switch to SPOT L, This prevents white burn-out in highlights turning the indicator on. of faces and clothes. This enhances the vertical resolution.
The subject is completely still (e.g. when Enable the EVS (Enhanced Vertical shooting documents, drawings, etc.). definition System) function. (See page 110.)
Note
Enabling the EVS function tends to increase the occurrence of aliasing problems (moir patterns). Therefore, normally leave the function disabled. When you wish to give a lush effect, as when shooting a wedding or similar occasion. Shooting under fluorescent lighting. When shooting bright areas mixed with dark areas (Example: A person indoors looking through a window at a bright landscape outdoors) When adjusting for skin detail or tone (Example: When shooting to hide skin details) To make focusing before shooting easier. To begin shooting immediately when there is no time to make adjustments. Set the MATRIX switch to H.SAT. (See page 22.) This increases the saturation of primary colors.
Set the MATRIX switch to FL. (See page This eliminates the blue-green cast, and 22.) restores natural hues. Set DL to ON in the advanced menu page 2 and, then set the OUTPUT/DL/ DCC+ switch to CAM DL. (See page 90.) See Skin Detail Correction or Adjusting Color in the Specified Area (page 117). This prevents white breakup and color faults in bright areas.
This adjusts the skin detail or tone to a designated active area.
Press the EZ FOCUS button, turning the This opens the iris, to make it easier to easy focus function on. (See page 13.) focus before beginning shooting. Press the EZ MODE button, turning the EZ mode function on. (See page 14.) This provides automatic adjustment to a set of standard values, to allow immediate shooting. This prevents the picture from reddening.
The 3200 K preset white balance makes Change the setting of the preset white the picture reddish. balance on basic menu page 2 (see page 84).
116
Skin Detail Correction

The DSR-300A/300AP provides an easy push-button function that designates an active skin tone area
Note
Adjusting Color in the Specified Area

You can adjust the color of the specified area. Perform the same procedure as for the skin detail correction to designate the target area.
The SKIN DTL SET button is disabled while a title is displayed in basic menu page 7 or color bars are displayed. Before skin detail correction, clear the title or color bars display.
1 2
Turn the POWER switch on with holding down the MENU dial so that you can access the advanced menu. Display advanced menu page 10.
SKIN DTL
ON OFF
1 2,3
SET
3
Set the SKIN DTL switch to ON. The indication SKIN AREA: 0 appears in the viewfinder.
Perform the procedure for the skin detail correction to designate the area to which you apply color adjustment. While this procedure is being performed, the menu is not displayed.
Press the SKIN DTL SET button. This causes the area detect cursor to be shown in the viewfinder (for 10 seconds).
When advanced menu page 10 appears, change the value of the SKIN SAT or SKIN HUE to adjust color in the area designated in step 3.
Place the area detect cursor on the target, then press the SKIN DTL SET button. This designates the correction area, which is indicated by a zebra pattern, and the indication SKIN AREA: 0 appears again. If the area detect cursor disappears before designating the area, press the SKIN DTL SET button again to display the cursor. (Return to step 2.)
Note
Set the SKIN DTL to 1.0 in basic menu page 1 if the skin detail correction is unnecessary.
Turn the MENU dial to change the SKIN AREA value (99 to +99)so that the zebra pattern may be displayed in the target area. Use basic menu page 1 to set the correction level (see page 83). You can also change color in the designated area (see the following section).
117
Appendix
Important Notes on Operation

Fitting the zoom lens It is important to fit the lens correctly, as otherwise damage may result. Be sure to refer to the section Fitting the Lens (See page 33). Do not cover the unit while operating Putting a cloth, for example, over the unit can cause excessive internal heat build-up. Operation and storage Avoid storing or operating the unit in the following conditions. In excessive heat or cold (operating temperature range: 0C to 40C (32F to 104F)) Remember that in summer in warm climates the temperature inside a car with the windows closed can easily exceed 50C (122F). In damp or dusty locations Locations where the unit may be exposed to rain Locations subject to violent vibration Close to radio or TV transmitters producing strong electromagnetic fields. Viewfinder Do not leave the unit with the eyepiece pointing directly at the sun. The eyepiece lens can concentrate the suns rays and melt the interior of the viewfinder. Do not use the viewfinder close to strong magnetic fields. This can cause picture distortion. Avoid violent impacts Dropping the unit, or otherwise imparting a violent shock to it, is likely to cause it to malfunction. After use Turn the POWER switch off. When not use for a period time Remove the battery pack. Shipping Remove the cassette before transporting the unit. If sending the unit by truck, ship, air or other transportation service, pack it in the shipping carton of the unit. Care of the unit Remove dust and dirt from the surfaces of the lenses or optical filters using a blower. If the body of the unit is dirty, clean it with a soft, dry cloth. In extreme cases, use a cloth steeped in a little neutral detergent, then wipe dry. Do not use organic solvents such as alcohol or thinners, as these may cause discoloration or other damage to the finish of the unit. In the event of operating problems If you should experience problems with the unit, contact your Sony dealer.
Appendix
Appendix
119
Important Notes on Operation
Characteristics of CCD Sensors

The following effects may appear in the image. They are characteristic of camcorders using CCDs (chargecoupled devices), and do not indicate a malfunction. Vertical smear When shooting a very bright object, such as a light, the highlight tends to produce vertical tails. This effect is much reduced in this camcorder. (Use of the electronic shutter increases this effect.)
Vertical tail on the image
Monitor screen
Bright object (electric light, sun, etc.)
White flecks White flecks may appear on the screen during use under high-temperature conditions. White flecks may also appear under normal temperature conditions if the sensitivity is increased (especially to +18 dB or higher).
Appendix
120
Appendix
Cleaning the Video Heads

Always use the special-purpose Sony DVM-12CL Cleaning Cassette for cleaning the audio and video heads. Follow the instructions with the cleaning cassette carefully, as inappropriate use of the cleaning cassette can damage the heads.
Note
The DVM-12CL Cleaning Cassette can be used only once. When the DVM-12CL is loaded in the camcorder, only STOP, PLAY and EJECT buttons function.
Replacing the video heads

If cleaning the video heads fails to restore picture quality, the heads may be due for replacement. Keep a check of the hours of head drum operation: with normal use, the heads should need replacing after about 1,500 hours of use. When the heads need replacement, contact your Sony dealer.
Check the hours of head drum operation using the VCR menu. For details see Checking the Total Operating (Power-On) Hours Menu 201 on page 99.
Replacing other parts

For replacement of all parts other than the video heads, contact your Sony dealer.
Appendix
Appendix
121
Warning System
When the camcorder is powered on, or if a fault occurs during operation, a warning is given in the following ways: By warning indications in the display window. By means of the WARNING indicator together with a warning tone from the speaker or earphone. By the warning indicators in the viewfinder. You can adjust the volume of the warning tone with the ALARM knob. When this knob is turned to the minimum position, there is no sound output at all.
Operation warnings and action to be taken Display window WARNING indication Warning tones Viewfinder indicators Continuous Warning indication State (blinking/ Continuous) 1 blinks/s 4 blinks /s Continuous 1 beep/s 4 beeps /s REC/TALLY BATT Continuous 1 blinks/s 4 blinks/s Video head gaps clogged or problem in recording circuit. After detecting head clogging, recording continues but quality is poor. Recording continues but quality is poor. Clean the heads. If the problem persists, power off, and consult your Sony dealer. Power off, and consult your Sony dealer. Without powering off, wait until the HUMID indication disappears. Consult your Sony dealer before doing anything.d) Replace the cassette as soon as possible. Replace the cassette or rewind. Replace the battery as soon as possible. Replace the battery. Problem Machine action What to do
RF
Continuousa)
a)
a)
a)
SERVO
Continuousa)
a)
a)
a)
Servo lock lost.
HUMID
Continuous
Condensa- The VCR tion on stops, and head drum. all operations are inhibited except eject. The tape cannot be wound properly.
a) c) c)
SLACK
Continuous
Operation stops.
Blinkinga) (1 blink/s) TAPE Blinking (4 blinks/s)

Appendix
Close to the end of tape. End of tape.
Operation continues.
Recording, playback or fast forward stops.
b)
c)
Blinking (1 blink/s) BATT Blinking (4 blinks/s)
b)
(Blinking in reverse phase)
Battery Operation almost continues. exhausted. Battery Operation exhausted. stops.
a) During recording or at recording pause. b) Except during playback, fast forward, rewind and recording review c) During recording only d) Do not operate the camcorder with SLACK indication displayed or the tape may be damaged.
For details of warning messages displayed in the viewfinder, see page 80.
122
Appendix
Condensation
If you move a camcorder suddenly from a very cold place to a warm place, or use it in a very humid location, condensation may form on the head drum. If it is operated in this state, the tape may adhere to the drum, and cause a failure or even permanent damage. Take the following steps to prevent this from happening: Remove the cassette before moving the camcorder from a very cold place to a warm place. Before inserting a cassette, turn the power on, and check that the HUMID indication is not showing in the display window. If it is showing, wait do not insert a cassette until the HUMID indication disappears. You can save waiting time if you keep the camcorder powered.
For details of cassette insertion and removal, see the section Recording on the Internal VCR on page 54, and for details of the HUMID indication, see the section Warning System on page 122.
Appendix
Appendix
123
Troubleshooting
You can use this chart to establish possible causes of an apparent problem; always double-check before
Symptoms The unit does not power on when you turn the POWER switch on. Cause There is no battery pack loaded.
sending the unit for repair. If a problem persists, contact your Sony dealer.
Remedy Load a battery pack (page 47).
Troubleshooting chart
The battery pack has reached the end of Replace the battery pack with a fully its usable life. charged one (page 47). The AC power adaptor is not connected, Connect the AC power adaptor (page or it is not turned on. 49).
The tape transport does not operate when you press either VTR button.
The POWER switch of the unit is turned off. The unit has reached the end of tape. The cassette is set record-inhibited. An incorrect type of DVCAM or DV cassette is loaded. indication blinks.) (The
Turn the POWER switch on (page 14). Rewind the tape, or load a new cassette (page 55). Either load a new cassette, or release the record-inhibit (page 53). Load a correct type of DV or DVCAM cassette (page 55). Either rewind the tape, or load a new cassette (page 55). Press on the PUSH indication to close the holder solidly (page 55). Replace the battery pack with a fully charged one (page 47). Use a BP-L60/L60A or BP-L90/L90A (page 47). Recharge the battery pack (page 47). Replace the battery pack with a fully charged one (page 47). Turn the POWER switch on. (page 14) Press on the PUSH indication to close the holder solidly and then press the EJECT button (page 55). Clean the video heads using a DVM12CL Cleaning Cassette (page 121).
The tape transport does not operate when you press any tape transport button. The power supply cuts while operating. The battery goes dead very quickly.
The unit has reached the end of tape. The cassette holder is not solidly closed after the cassette is inserted. The battery pack is exhausted. The operating temperature is very low. The battery pack is inadequately charged.
It is not possible to eject the cassette.
The battery pack is exhausted. The POWER switch is turned off. The cassette holder is not solidly closed after the cassette is inserted.
The playback picture quality is poor. The playback picture does not appear. The playback sound does not hear.
The video heads are dirty.
All controls except the EJECT button are There is condensation on the head disabled. drum.
Appendix
Audio recording is not possible.
The AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs are set to the minimum level. The AUDIO LEVEL knob on the front is set to the minimum level. The audio level is too high.
Remove the cassette, power off, and wait until the condensation has evaporated (page 123). Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs (page 16). Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL knob (page 16). Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs, and record again (page 16). Adjust the setting of the AUDIO LEVEL (CH-1/CH-2) knobs, and record again (page 16). Load a new cassette (page 55). Load a correct type of cassette (page 55).
The recorded sound is distorted.
The recorded sound has a high noise level.
The audio level is too low.
The indication Er91-13F appears in the The unit has failed in loading or saving the cassette memory data. display window. An incorrect type of cassette is loaded. The cassette is automatically ejected.
124
Appendix
Symptoms The time code setting is not possible. The time code value does not advance though the TC mode switch 1 or 2 is set to the F-RUN or DATE/TIME.
Troubleshooting chart (continued) Cause At the recording, the ClipLink function is set to on (meaning ClipLink shooting is allowed) in menu 211, CONT is displayed in the display window and the time code generator is in the REGEN mode.
Remedy Only the REGEN mode can be used for ClipLink shooting. If you will not perform ClipLink shooting, set the ClipLink function to oFF (see page 103).
Appendix
Appendix
125
Specifications
DSR-300A/300AP
Imaging element Three-chip interline transfer CCD Pixel resolution 768 (horizontal) 494 (vertical) (DSR-300A) 752 (horizontal) 582 (vertical) (DSR-300AP) Imaging area 6.4 4.8 mm (corresponds to 1/2inch picture tube) Built-in filter settings 1: 3200K 2: 5600K + 1/8ND 3: 5600K 4: 5600K + 1/64ND Lens mount Sony 1/2-inch bayonet mount Signal standards EIA standard signal (NTSC color system) (DSR-300A) CCIR standard signal (PAL color system) (DSR-300AP) Scanning system 525 lines, 2:1 interlace (DSR300A) 625 lines, 2:1 interlace (DSR-300AP) Scanning frequencies Horizontal: 15.734 kHz (DSR-300A) 15.625 kHz (DSR-300AP) Vertical: 59.94 Hz (DSR-300A) 50.00 Hz (DSR-300AP) Synchronization Internal sync External sync, using signal input (VBS or BS) to the GEN LOCK IN connector or input to the VTR connector. Horizontal resolution 800 TV lines (center) Minimum illumination 0.5 lux (at f/1.4, +36 dB) 0.8 lux (at f/1.8, +36 dB) Sensitivity 2000 lux (f/11.0 standard, 3200 K) Gain levels Selectable 3 dB, 0 dB, 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 18 dB, 18 dB + DPR, 24 dB, 24 dB + DPR, hyper gain (30 dB + DPR) Video S/N ratio (output from the VIDEO OUT connector) 62 dB (typical) (DSR-300A) 60 dB (typical) (DSR-300AP) Registration 0.05% for all zones, without lens Input connectors AUDIO IN CH-1/CH-2:XLR-3 pin 2, male 60 dBu, 3 k +4 dBu, 10 k (0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms) GEN LOCK IN: BNC 1.0 Vp-p, 75 VIDEO IN: BNC 1.0 Vp-p, 75 (When fitting DSBK-501/501P. The connector shares with GEN LOCK IN) TC IN: BNC 0.5 to 18 Vp-p, 10 k DC IN: XLR-4 pin, female DV OUT: 6-pin IEEE1394, 1 AUDIO OUT CH-1/CH-2: phono jack 10 dBu, 47 k (0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms) VIDEO OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 MONITOR OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 S VIDEO OUT: DIN 4 pin 1.0 Vp-p, 75 TC OUT: BNC, 1.0 Vp-p, 75 DC OUT: 4 pin, male EARPHONE: mini-jack to 15.5 dBu variable, 8 LENS: 12-pin VF: 20-pin LIGHT : 2-pin VTR: 26-pin
Output connectors
Control connectors REMOTE 1: stereo mini-jack REMOTE 2: 10-pin Power supply 11 to 17 V DC Power consumption 21 W Operating temperature 0C to 40C (32F to 104F) Storage temperature 20C to +60C (4F to 140F) Mass 3.3 kg approx. (7 lb 4 oz) (camcorder only)
Appendix
126
Appendix
External dimensions in millimeters (inches)
VCL-718BX Zoom Lens

Focal length Zoom Maximum aperture 1:1.4 Manual or automatic, selectable; f/ 1.4 to f/16 and C (closed) Subject area (at 1.1 m (4 feet)) Wide angle: 772 579 mm (301/2 227/8 inches) Telephoto: 44 33 mm (13/4 15/16 inches) Focusing range Infinity to 0.9 m Filter attachment threads 82 mm dia., 0.75 mm pitch (on lens) Mounting Sony 1/2-inch bayonet mount Mass 1.4 kg approx. (3 lb 1 oz) (including lens hood) External dimensions 110 186 mm (diameter length) (43/8 73/8 inches) (with lens hood, focused at infinity) Iris 6.7 to 121 mm Manual or power, selectable; zoom ratio: 18
121 (478) 242 (958)
270 (1034) 536 (2118)
Tape transport system Tape speed Approx. 28.2 mm/s Recording/playback time (using PDV-184ME) Max. 184 minutes Fast forward/rewind time (using PDV-184ME) Max. 12 minutes Usable cassettes
Model name PDV-64ME/64MEM/94ME/124ME/ 124MEM/184ME/184MEM PDVM-12ME/22ME/32ME/32MEM/ 40ME/40MEM Size Standard size Mini size
Video system (at playback with the DSR-85/ 85P)

Bandwidth Luminance (Y) DSR-300A: 30 Hz to 5.0 MHz 1.0 dB DSR-300AP: 25 Hz to 5.5 MHz +1.0/2.0 dB DSR-300A: 30 Hz to 1.5 MHz +1.0/5.0 dB DSR-300AP: 25 Hz to 2.0 MHz +1.0/2.0 dB Min. 55 dB Max. 2% Max. 30 nsec.
192 (758) 247 (934)
DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder
Picture tube Indicators 1.5-inch monochrome REC/TALLY (2), BATT, SHUTTER, GAIN UP Resolution 600 TV lines Power supply 12 V DC Power consumption 2.1 W Mass 620 g approx. (1 lb 5 oz) Maximum external dimensions 241 (W) 91 (H) 203 (D) mm (91/2 35/8 8 inches)
Chrominance (RY/BY)
S/N ratio
Luminance
K-factor (K2T, KPB) Y/C time delay
Appendix
Audio system (at playback with the DSR-85/ 85P)

Frequency response 2-channel mode: 20 Hz to 20 kHz +0.5/1.0 dB 4-channel mode: 20 Hz to 14.5 kHz +0.5/1.0 dB Min. 80 dB
Dynamic range
Distortion (THD) (1 kHz, Max. 0.08% reference level, 48 kHz)
Appendix
127
Specifications
RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit

85 25 12 mm (33/8 1 1/2 inches) (excluding projections) Mass Approx. 50 g (1 oz) (including cable) Cable 5 m (16 feet), with mini-plug Operating temperature range 10C to +45C (14F to 113F) Storable temperature range 20C to +60C (4F to +140F) Accessories Stickers (1 set) Binding ties (4) Panning rod mounting bracket (1) Operating instruction (1) Dimensions
BVW-50/50P Portable Videocassette Recorder DSR-20/20P/70/70P/2000/2000P Digital Videocassete Recorder VA-5/5P/90/90P VTR Adaptor Battery products BP-L40/L40A/L60/L60A/L90/L90A Battery Pack NP-1B/BP-90A Battery Pack BC-1WD/1WDCE/410/410CE Battery Charger BC-L50/L100/L100CE Battery Charger AC power supply CMA-8A/8ACE AC Adaptor AC-550/550CE/DN1/DN2A AC Adaptor Synthesized tuner products CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor WRR-810A/855A/860A UHF Synthesized Tuner Microphone products ECM-670/672 Electret Condenser Microphone C-74 Condenser Microphone CAC-12 Microphone Holder EC-0.5C2/0.3C2 Microphone Cable Studio equipment SEG-2550A/2550AP Special Effects Unit DFS-300/300P/500/500P DME Switcher DCK-500/500P Digital Chroma Keyer WEX-2000 Wipe Pattern Extender DXF-41/41CE 4-inch Viewfinder (monochrome) DXF-51/51CE 5-inch Viewfinder (monochrome) Cables and miscellaneous The suffix number on a cable part number indicates the length in meters: e.g. a CCZ-A2 is 2 meters long. (Approximate equivalents in feet: 2 m = 6 ft, 5 m = 16 ft, 10 m = 33 ft, 25 m = 82 ft, 50 m = 164 ft, 100 m = 328 ft) Camera cables with Z-type 26-pin connectors CCZ-A2/A5/A10/A25 Camera cables with Q-type 14-pin connectors CCZQ-A2/A5/A10/A2AM i.LINK cable (DV connecting cable) CCFD-3L (6-pin y 4-pin, 3.5m) CCF-3L (6-pin y 6-pin, 3.5m) DSBK-301A Index Picture Board LCR-1 Rain Cover LC-DS500 Carrying Case LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case
Supplied accessories
VCL-718BX Zoom Lens1) (1) DXF-801/801CE Viewfinder (1) Microphone (1) Wind screen (1) VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor (1) Shoulder strap (1) RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit (1) Lens mount cap (1) Flange focal length adjustment test chart (1) Binding ties (4) Operating Instructions (1) Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Related Products
There is a range of Sony products available to meet every conceivable video shooting requirement. For details, consult your Sony sales representative or supplier. Lenses VCL-714BXA/718BX Zoom Lens LO-32BMT 2/3 lens adapter Remote control unit RM-M7G/LG1/VJ1 Remote Control Unit VTR products BVV-5/5PS Videocassette Recorder
Appendix
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) DSR-300AK/300APK
128
Appendix
Chart of Optional Components and Accessories
EC-0.5C2/0.3C2 Microphone Cable ECM-670/672 and C-74 Microphone CAC-12 Microphone Holder
Video monitor
CCZ-A cable CCZQ-A cable
BVW-50/50P Betacam SP VTR S VHS VCR
CCZ-A cable DXF-51/51CE 5-inch Viewfinder a) CCZ-A cable DSBK-501/501P Analog Composite Input Board a) DSBK-301A Index Picture Bord
VA-5/5P + BVV-5/5PS
VA-5/5P + DNV-5/5P
DSR-70/70P Digital Videocassete Recorder DSR-20/20P/2000/2000P Digital Videocassete Recorder DVCAM mini size cassette tape DVCAM standard size cassette tape
DSR-300A/300AP CCA-7/CCA-7-7A cable DC-L1 Battery Adaptor BC-1WD/ 1WDCE Battery Charger
NP-1B Battery Pack
RM-M7G Remote Control Unit DC-L90 Battery Adaptor BP-90A Battery Pack BC-410/410CE Battery Charger
RM-VJ1 Remote Control Unit (Only CCA-7-7A cable) RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor
BP-L40/L40A/L60/ L60A/L90/L90A d) Battery Pack
BC-L50 Battery Charger
BC-L100/L100CE Battery Charger
Tripod
CMA-8A/8ACE or AC550/550CE AC Adaptor
AC-DN1 AC Adaptor b) AC-DN2A AC Adaptor c)
Appendix
LC-DS300SFT Soft Carrying Case
WRR-855A UHF Synthesized Tuner
CA-WR855 Camera Adaptor
LC-DS500 Carrying Case
LCR-1 Raincover
a) Optional accessory shoe kit is required for fitting. For details, consult your Sony dealer. b) Use when power consumption of the DSR-300A/300AP and accessories is 38 W or lower. c) When power consumption is 38 W or higher due to fiting a video light (with power consumption of 30 W or lower) to the DSR-300A/300AP, use the AC-DN2A (150 W or lower). d) It is recommended that the BP-L40/L40A be used at 30 W or less (See page 47).
Appendix
129
What Is ClipLink?
The ClipLinkTM function greatly improves the efficiency of the video production process as a whole by recording various editing-related data on tape when shooting. As such, ClipLink is a revolutionary function that transcends the conventional separation of shooting and editing.
Note
Next, begin rough editing by viewing the Index Pictures on the EditStations GUI display and rearranging them as you wish. This eliminates the difficult work of matching up a handwritten shot list with recorded scenes. After you have completed this rough editing, you can then transfer only the recordings needed for your video program.
When an external equipment, such as VCR, is connected to the DV OUT connector, the ClipLink function will not work.
High-speed transfer of recordings

It is also possible to transfer the editing material itself between the DSR-85/85P and ES-7 at four times normal speed. In other words, the transfer can be carried out in one fourth of the real time duration. It is of course possible to carry out a transfer at four times normal speed when backing up video and audio data recorded on the disk drive to the DSR-85/85P, or in the opposite direction when loading data backed up on the DSR-85/85P to the disk drive. Thus the time required is much shorter than with conventional equipment (for which, for example, transferring a 40-minute segment of video takes 40 minutes).
Note
How ClipLink Changes Video Production Techniques

The following describes various ways in which ClipLink1) video production differs from conventional video production.
Recording of ClipLink log data lightens the shooting workload

When you start shooting a scene, ClipLink log data such as the scene number and time code data are automatically recorded into the cassette memory. This eliminates the need for a conventional shot list compiled by someone using a stopwatch, clipboard and pencil. You can also designate unwanted scenes as NG (no good) and automatically skip all NG scenes when editing.
Recorded Index Pictures drastically cut editing time

The ClipLink function also features Index Pictures a time-saving tool for rough editing. Each Index Picture is a compressed image taken from the start of each scene, which is recorded onto the tape as a still picture. When editing, begin by transferring only the Index Pictures and the ClipLink log data to the EditStations hard disk. You can also transfer OK scenes only (NG scenes are skipped).
Appendix
When using a tape recorded by the DSR-300A/300AP to transfer digital (video/audio/time code) signals at four times normal speed from the DSR-85/85P Digital Videocassette Recorder to the ES-7 EditStation for editing purposes, there must be about at least 40 seconds of recording on the tape before the IN point. To perform editing without problems, it is recommended that you pre-record at least 40 seconds of color bar signals at the beginning of the tape.
.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) The ClipLink system is a video production system which uses the cassette memory function.
130
Appendix
ClipLink Operation Flow

The following is a detailed description of how to use the ClipLink function during the video production process.
Example System Configuration

The following illustration shows the optimum system configuration for using the ClipLink function. ClipLink operation is possible even with a system containing existing analog equipment. However, note that a part of functions are disabled.
Shooting DVCAM standard cassette or DVCAM mini cassette DSR-300/300AP Digital Camcorder Index Pictures: recorded on tape ClipLink log data: recorded in cassette memory ClipLink log data recorded onto DVCAM cassettes links shooting and editing operations.
ClipLink log data transfer ES-3/7 EditStation non-linear editing system DSR-60a)/80/85b) (or DSR-60Pa)/80P/85Pb)) Digital Videocassette Recorder Index Pictures Video output (QSDI) ClipLink log data RS-422A interface
Appendix
Editing ES-3/7 EditStation non-linear editing system DSR-60a)/80/85b) (or DSR-60Pa)/80P/85Pb)) Digital Videocassette Recorder Actual AV data QSDI input/output
a) The DSR-60/60P is a videocassette player. b) Between the DSR-85/85P and ES-7, quadruple transfer is possible through the QSDI.
Appendix
131
Data Generated When Shooting

The following describes the kinds of data that is generated when using the ClipLink function.
Index Pictures
When shooting, a single-frame image from the Mark IN point at the start of each scene is recorded as a still picture into the DSBK-301As internal memory. These images are called Index Pictures. When you finish shooting, the Index Pictures from all scenes are recorded onto the tape after the last scene.
Tape Scene 1 Scene 2 Scene 3 Scene n Index Picture
0 90 180 270 360 450 540 630
1
(72) (144) (216) (288) (360) (432) (504) 60
2 6 10 14 18 22 26 30
3 7 11 15 19 23 27 31
4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32
5
120
9
180
13
240
17
300
21
360
25
420
29
DSBK-301As internal memory (option)
720 dots After shooting, the Index Pictures in the internal memory are recorded onto the video tape.
Up to 32 Index Pictures can be recorded onto the tape space normally occupied by one frame, as shown below.
Seven frame spaces are reserved at the end of the last scene as a recording area for Index Pictures. (A cassette with 16 Kbits of cassette memory can record up to 198 Index Pictures, and a cassette with 4 Kbits of cassette memory can record up to 45 Index Pictures.)
ClipLink log data

ClipLink log data can be recorded automatically or manually into the cassette memory for use as a
ClipLink log data Reel number (cassette number)
Appendix
convenient alternative to the conventional shot list. ClipLink log data includes the following items.
Description Data (maximum length: 8 digits) consisting of alphanumeric characters and/or symbols (This is left blank at shipping.) A three-digit number from 001 to 198 (starts at 001 and is automatically incremented with each scene). This cannot be changed (set to 1 at shipping). Indicates the OK/NG status of a particular scene. (In the OK case, nothing is recorded.) These are the time codes that indicate the Mark IN and Mark OUT points for each scene (HH:MM:SS). These time codes are recorded when the camcorder has been set to MARK mode. The frame digit is incremented at each Mark IN point and is decremented at each Mark OUT point. (For details, see Time codes recorded for Mark IN/OUT points on page 134.)
Scene number Take number OK/NG Mark IN/OUT point time codes
Cue point time code
This is the time code that indicates the cue points (valid up to the frame digit). This time code is recorded when the camcorder has been set to CUE mode. When in this mode, the time codes at the start and end of a recording (the Rec IN and Rec OUT time codes) are automatically recorded as Mark IN/OUT points.
132
Appendix
480 lines (NTSC) or 576 lines (PAL)
How to record ClipLink log data

The following describes how to record the various ClipLink log data items. OK/NG status To designate a scene as NG, press the NG button on the camcorder while shooting the scene or at any time before you begin shooting the next scene. All scenes that do not receive an NG designation are recorded as OK scenes. (When you exit the VCR recording mode, changing the OK/NG status is no longer possible.) Mark IN/OUT points time codes This data is especially useful when shooting a video program for which a scenario has been created. Set the camcorder to MARK mode before you start shooting. While shooting, each time you press the camcorders TAKE button, Mark IN and Mark OUT time codes are recorded alternately.
Cue point time codes This type of data is especially useful when shooting scenes that may contain unexpected events, such as when shooting for sports coverage or documentaries. Set the camcorder to CUE mode before you start to record. While recording, each time you press the camcorders TAKE button, the current time code is recorded as a cue point time code.
Start recording
Index Picture 1 Scene 1 Take 1
End recording
Rec IN (automatic recording)
Cue point time code (manual recording)
Rec OUT (automatic recording)
Index Picture 1 Start recording Scene 1 Take 1
Index Picture 2 End recording Scene 2 Take 1
Mark IN (manual recording)
Mark OUT (manual recording) Mark IN (manual recording) Mark OUT (manual recording)
Appendix
Appendix
133
Time codes recorded for Mark IN/OUT points

There is a gap between actual time codes and Mark IN/ OUT time codes recorded in the cassette memory, as shown in the figure below. The frame digit is incremented at each Mark IN point and is decremented at each Mark OUT point.
Mark IN (or Rec IN) Actual time code
Cue
Mark OUT (or Rec OUT)
12:23:15:10
12:34:20:20
12:39:24:23
Frame digit incremented Time code recorded in the cassette memory
Frame digit decremented Cue
12:23:16
(The Index Picture is the image around 12:23:15:10.)
12:34:20:20
12:39:24
Recording capacity for Mark IN/OUT time codes and Cue point time codes
When in MARK mode, up to 198 pairs of Mark IN and Mark OUT points can be recorded (if using a cassette with 16 Kbits of cassette memory). When in CUE mode, up to 396 time codes points (including all cue point time codes and all Mark (Rec) IN and Mark (Rec) OUT time codes) can be recorded (if using a cassette with 16 Kbits of cassette memory).
Appendix
134
Appendix
Glossary
Aliasing Distortion of the signal caused by overlap of the baseband signal and lower sideband signal when the signal is demodulated. Aperture compensation Electronic compensation for frequency response degradations caused to sampled high-frequency signals by the limited aperture of CCD image sensors. Black balance adjustment To balance the black levels of the R, G, and B channels of a video camera so that black has no color. CCD Charge-coupled device. A solid state imager used in most recent video cameras in place of a pickup tube. It converts input light levels into electrical charges, which are once stored and then output in the form of voltage variations. Center marker A cross that indicates the center of the image on the viewfinder screen. Color conversion filter An optical filter used with color video cameras to convert the color temperature of a light source. Color temperature The temperature in Kelvins (K) to represent the color of a light source. Composite video signal A composite video signal includes a video signal, burst signal, and sync signal. Condensation Condensation refers to tiny droplets of water that can appear in a device, such as in the tape transport system. When condensation occurs on a video head drum, the tape may stick to the drum, which can damage not only the tape but also the VCR unit. DCC Dynamic Contrast Control. A video camera containing a DCC circuit can handle a wide dynamic range of luminance. Drum See Head drum. Flare Dark or colored flashes caused by signal overload through extreme light reflections of polished objects or very bright lights. Flicker Repeated change of brightness on the screen, which is caused by frequency difference between the cameras scanning and the variations in the lightning. Gen-lock Abbreviation of generator lock. It refers to the synchronization of a VCR to a reference sync signal. HAD Hole-Accumulated Diode. A CCD sensor structure designed to suppress certain types of noise inherent CCDs. See also CCD. Head drum A metal cylinder to which a video head is attached. This drum is rotated at high speeds in synchronization with the sync signal during recording and playback. Horizontal resolution The capability of a CCD camera to preserve detail in the horizontal resolution. Usually expressed as the number of vertical lines which can be distinguished in the reproduced image of a test chart. i.LINK i.LINK stands for IEEE1394-1995 stan-dards and their revisions. It is applied to the DV connector through which DV signals can be transmitted with AV protocol. IRE scale The scale to determine video signal amplitudes devised by the Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE), an American organization now called the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). The IRE scale includes a total of 140 units, with 100 up and 40 down from zero. PCM audio PCM stands for pulse code modulation. PCM audio means audio signals that have been processed by pulse code modulation. Each analog audio signal is converted into pulses that are generated in rapid succession, and each pulse is recorded as a digital signal having a value of 0 or 1. Pedestal level A black level which is the absolute black level of a video signal. Return video This refers to a video signal returned from the VCR to the camera or from the CCU to one camera in a multi-camera system, allowing the camera operator to monitor the image output from the camera or shot on other cameras.
Appendix
Appendix
135
Glossary
S/N Signal-to-Noise ratio. The relation of the strength of the desired signal to the accompanying electronic interference, the noise. If S/N is high, sounds are reproduced with less noise and pictures are reproduced clearly without snow. Search The search function enables recorded images or time codes to be viewed while the tape is played back at various forward or reverse speeds, as a means of locating a particular scene in the taped program. Standby-off mode One of the stop modes. In this mode, head drum rotation is stopped and the tape tension is slackened. It is not possible to switch instantaneously from this mode to recording or playback mode. This mode is not harmful to the tape or heads. Standby-on mode One of the stop modes. In this mode, the head drum continues rotating and the tape remains wound onto the drum. This mode enables instantaneous switching to recording or playback mode. To prevent damage to the tape or heads, the device automatically switches from standby-on mode to standby-off mode after a certain period of time.
S video connectors Input/output connectors for separate Y (luminance) and C (chroma) signals. This method eliminates interference between Y and C signals that can occur in conventional composite video signals to obtain a higherresolution picture. Sync This refers to the sync (synchronization) signal. The sync signal is used as a reference signal for duplicating the scanning patterns recorded via a camera when playing back the recording on a monitor. The sync signal actually includes two signals: a horizontal sync signal and a vertical sync signal. Time code The time code is a tape position information signal that includes time and frame data that are recorded onto the tape when shooting so as to facilitate searching of editing points and recorded scenes when viewing or editing. User bits These are also referred to as users bits. The user bits are a 32-bit segment of the time code recording area. The user can select what to record in this segment and how to use the recorded data. For example, it can be used to record date information in addition to the time code data or ID numbers for tape reels or programs.
Video gain Amount of amplification for video signals, expressed in decibels (dB). White balance adjustment In the light of a particular color temperature, to adjust the white levels of the R, G, and B channels of a color video camera so that any white object shot in that light is reproduced as a truly white image. Zebra pattern Striped patterns which appear in the viewfinder to indicate areas of the image where the video level is about 70 IRE (NTSC) or 70% (PAL). The DSR-300A/300AP can show areas where the video level is 100 IRE (NTSC) or 100% (PAL).
Appendix
Sony Corporation
Printed in Japan
136
Appendix

Sony DSR-300A Operation Manual

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3-203-818-12(1)

2000 by Sony Corporation

Fitting and Connections

Fitting and Connections

Viewfinder Screen Indications and Menus

Adjustments and Settings

Adjustments and Settings (Continued)

VCT-U14 Tripod Adaptor

VCL-718BX Zoom Lens RM-LG1 Remote Control Unit

Test chart for flange focal length adjustment

Lens mount cap Binding tie Operating instructions

New Functions boost operability

/2-inch IT type Power HAD CCD

Sophisticated image processing

.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) DPR = Dual Pixel Readout

High-performance viewfinder (DXF-801/ 801CE)

Features on VCR Section

Compatible with consumer DV

.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) TTL = Total 2) DUR = Duration

PCM digital audio

Equipped with audio output connectors

Recordable the external video signals

VCR data display

Recording on external VCRs

.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1) It is necessary to fit the optional DSBK-301A Index Picture Board.

Equipped with DV OUT connector

Location and Function Location and Function of Parts

1 MIC IN +48 V connector 2 VF connector 3 FILTER control 4 Lens mount

Right Side View

1 EZ FOCUS button 2 EDIT SEARCH buttons

Location and Function of Parts

2 Tape transport buttons and indicators

3 EARPHONE connector 4 WARNING indicator 5 LIGHT switch 6 DISPLAY switch

During recording, none of these buttons operates.

Location and Function of Parts

PB DATE NDF EXT-LK

OVER dB OVER 0 -12 -20

G ClipLink log data indication H ClipLink continue indication

CL CONT IP CLIP TAPE DVCAM BATT E F Li DIAG RF SERVO HUMID SLACK

I IP indication a) J Lithium backup battery warning

a) When the optional DSBK-301A is fitted

BATT E[x pp]F (blinking) BATT E[ppp]F (blinking)

1)Replace the battery pack when this indication appears.

Location and Function of Parts

S Time value indication

Also, this button is used to change menu settings.

Operation panel under the cover

1 MENU button 2 ADVANCE button 3 SHIFT button

REC TIME SKIN DTL

ON COMPONENT. VBS OFF Y/C

EXT VTR OUTPUT

PRESET REGEN DATE/TIME

F-RUN SET R-RUN MONITOR OUT CHARACTER

FRONT MIC LOW CUT

4 AUDIO SELECT (CH-1/CH-2) switches 5 AUDIO IN (CH-1/ CH-2) switches

Location and Function of Parts

REC TIME SKIN DTL

ON COMPONENT. VBS OFF Y/C

EXT VTR OUTPUT

PRESET REGEN DATE/TIME