Sony HDR HC3 Operating Guide
Sony HDR HC3 - 4MP High-Definition Handycam MiniDV Camcorder Manual
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Sony HDR HC3 manual content summary:
- Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 1
Recorder Operating Guide HDR-HC3 Enjoying pictures with high definition quality 12 Getting Started 14 Easy Handycam 26 Recording/ Playback 30 Using the Menu 48 Dubbing/Editing 74 Using a Computer 84 Troubleshooting 92 Additional Information 111 Quick Reference 127 US © 2006 Sony Corporation - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 2
WARNING To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture. This symbol is intended to alert to persons. This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance. 2 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 3
to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions. Polarization This short out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any the point where the cord exits from the appliance. Accessories Do not place the set on an unstable cart, - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 4
normally when following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are specified in the operating instructions. Improper adjustment of other fire, electric shock, or other hazards. Safety Check Upon completion of any service or repairs to the set, ask the service technician - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 5
manual thoroughly, and retain it for future reference. CAUTION Replace the battery with the specified type only. Otherwise, fire or injury may result. For customers in the U.S.A. and CANADA RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES Lithium-Ion batteries Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. HDR-HC3 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 6
use Types of cassette you can use in your camcorder You can use mini DV cassettes marked with . Mini DV cassettes with Cassette Memory are incompatible (p. 112). • Before connecting your camcorder to another device with an HDMI cable, component video cable, USB or i.LINK cable, be sure to insert - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 7
You cannot play back a tape recorded in the HDV format on DV format video cameras or on mini DV players (The screen appears blue). Check the contents of tapes by playing them back on this camcorder prior to playing them back on other devices. About this manual • The images of the LCD screen and the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 8
5 Enjoying pictures with high definition quality Trying out the new HDV format 12 Viewing video recorded in the HDV format 13 Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items 14 Step 2: Charging the battery pack 15 Step 3: Turning the power on and holding your camcorder firmly ......... 19 Step - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 9
To check the remaining battery (Battery Info) To turn off High definition TV 42 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV 42 Connecting to a high definition TV 43 Connecting to a 16:9 (wide) or 4:3 TV 44 Using the Menu Using the menu items 48 Menu items 50 CAMERA SET menu 52 Settings to adjust your camcorder - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 10
DVD (Direct Access to "Click to DVD 89 Troubleshooting Troubleshooting 92 Warning indicators and messages 107 Additional Information Using your camcorder abroad 111 Usable cassette tapes 112 About the "Memory Stick 114 About the "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack 116 About i.LINK 117 Maintenance and - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 11
11 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 12
capture important moments in your life in high quality digital HDV format, allowing you to relive them. Your camcorder's down convert function converts pictures in HDV format to SD (standard definition) quality for viewing on older wide TV formats, and on 4:3 aspect ratio TVs when a high definition - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 13
74) Connecting to an HDV1080i device An optional i.LINK cable allows you to copy pictures in HD (high definition) quality. Connecting to an HDV1080i non-compliant device Your camcorder can down convert HDV format video to SD (standard definition) quality to enable copying. Connecting to a computer - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 14
battery pack NP-FP60 (1) (p. 15, 116) Battery terminal cover (1) Attached to the camcorder. Operating Guide (This manual) (1) Power cord (1) (p. 15) Wireless Remote Commander (1) (p. 40) A button-type lithium battery is already installed. A/V connecting cable (1) (p. 42, 74) Component video cable - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 15
pack (P series) (p. 116) after attaching it to your camcorder. • You cannot use the battery pack NP-FP30 with your camcorder (confirm the battery model on the back of the battery pack). If you attach it forcibly to your camcorder, the battery pack may be damaged or cannot be detached, and it may - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 16
the jack cover. Match the v mark on the DC plug with the v mark on your camcorder. When storing the battery pack Attach the battery terminal cover to protect the battery terminal. Fully discharge the battery before storing it for an extended period (see page 116 for the details of storage). 16 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 17
in the HDV format Battery pack NP-FP50 NP-FP60 (supplied) NP-FP70 NP-FP71 NP-FP90 Continuous recording time 60 65 65 90 100 100 125 135 135 150 165 165 230 250 250 Typical recording time* 30 35 35 50 55 55 65 70 70 80 90 90 125 135 135 Recording in the DV format Battery pack - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 18
wall outlet. • When attaching an optional video light, it is recommended that you use a NP-FP60, NPFP70, NP-FP71 or NP-FP90 battery pack. On the charging/recording/playback time • Times measured with the camcorder at 25 °C (77 °F) (10 to 30 °C (50 °F to 86 °F) is recommended). • The recording and - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 19
(CHG). • At the time of purchase, the power will be set to turn off automatically if you leave your camcorder without any operation attempted for approximately 5 minutes, to save battery power ([A.SHUT OFF], p. 70). • If warning messages appear on the screen, follow the instructions (p. 108). 19 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 20
last longer Press and hold DISP/BATT INFO for a few seconds until appears. This setting is practical when you use your camcorder in bright conditions or where you want to save battery power. The recorded picture will not be affected by the setting. To turn on the LCD backlight, press and hold - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 21
panel. Place your hand on the rear side of the LCD panel to support it. Then, touch the buttons displayed on the screen. DISP/BATT INFO Touch DISP GUIDE SMOOTH SLWREC EXPOSURE Touch [MENU] during Easy Handycam operation (p. 26). 2 Touch [DISP GUIDE]. Select area for guide. DISP GUIDE END - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 22
. If you cannot find the indicator you want to check, touch / to toggle. When you touch , the screen returns to the area selecting display. DISP GUIDE 1/2 FOCUS: MANUAL PROGRAM AE: SPOTLIGHT STEADYSHOT: OFF END To finish the operation Touch [END]. 22 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 23
every time you turn on your camcorder or change the POWER switch position. • If you do not use your camcorder for about 3 months, the built-in rechargeable battery gets discharged and the date and time page 68 for [DATA CODE] (during Easy Handycam operation, you can set only [DATE/TIME])). 23 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 24
a tape or a "Memory Stick Duo" Cassette tape You can use mini DV cassettes only (p. 112). • The recordable time varies depending on [ REC MODE Open the LCD panel. 2 Insert a cassette with its window facing outwards, then press . Push the center of the back of the cassette lightly. Cassette - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 25
"Memory Stick Duo" in once. • When the access lamp is lit or flashing, your camcorder is reading/writing data. Do not shake or knock your camcorder, turn the power off, eject the "Memory Stick Duo," or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, image data may be damaged. • When inserting or ejecting the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 26
Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic settings Easy Recording/Playback (Easy Handycam) With this Easy Handycam operation, most of the camera settings are automatically optimally adjusted, which frees you from detailed adjustments. The screen font size increases for easy viewing. E B - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 27
Handycam - using your camcorder 4.0M 11 When MENU Flashing t Lit Press and hold lightly Press fully to record. to adjust the focus. disappears, the image has been recorded. * Still images are recorded in [FINE] quality on a "Memory Stick Duo." To record high Duo" (p. 32). • Do - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 28
Handycam operation Press EASY A again. disappears from the screen. x Adjustable menu settings during Easy Handycam not displayed during Easy Handycam operation. • Cancel Easy Handycam operation if you want Easy Handycam operation] may appear if operations not available during Easy Handycam are - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 29
29 Easy Handycam - using your camcorder with automatic settings - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 30
• The pictures are recorded in the HDV format in the default setting (p. 66). Beep Shutter click Flashing t Lit A shutter sound is heard. When disappears, the image has been recorded. To record high quality still images during tape recording (Dual Rec) See page 32. To check the latest recording - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 31
Playback 1 Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow repeatedly to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. Recording/Playback 2 Start playing back. Movies Touch to rewind the tape to the desired point, then touch to start playback. A C B A Stop B Play/Pause toggles as you touch it • - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 32
possible distance between camcorder and subject while maintaining sharp 32 focus is about 1 cm (about 13/32 in.) for wide record high quality still images during tape recording (Dual Rec 1 8 qa You can record high quality size 2.3M in the HDV format, 1.7M (4:3) or 2.3M (16:9) in the DV format. • Do - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 33
camcorder, the flash light does not emit light. • You can change the brightness of the flash by setting [FLASH LEVEL], or you can prevent the redeye by setting [REDEYE REDUC], in [FLASH and remove the conversion lens (optional). • Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 54) when it is hard to focus - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 34
qh Open the LCD panel qh 90 degrees to the camcorder (1), then rotate it 180 degrees to the lens side of the screw must be less than 5.5 mm (7/32 in.)) to the tripod receptacle wa using a tripod panel. Recording/playback To check the remaining battery (Battery Info qs Set the POWER switch to - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 35
microphone (optional) will take precedence when connected. R REC lamp The REC lamp lights up in red during recording (p. 69). The REC lamp flashes if the remaining tape or battery power is low. S Remote sensor Point the Remote Commander (p. 40) towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 36
(66) Recording mode (SP or LP) is also displayed in the DV format. B Remaining battery (approx.) C Recording status ([STBY] (standby) or [REC] ( ) F Review button for still images on the "Memory Stick Duo" (32) Appears when "Memory Stick Duo" is inserted. G END SEARCH/Rec review display switch - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 37
( ) is a reference page. The indicators during recording will not be recorded. Viewing movies 2 1 qf 45 Viewing still images 2 qh 0 3.0M wf wg qj qk MEMORY PLAY ql w; qg 8 N Tape transport indicator O Video operation buttons (31) wa ws wd 8 P Data file name Q Picture number/Total - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 38
may not appear when you use [DISP GUIDE]. Upper left Upper right 120 Q.REC Interval photo recording (63) Flash light (55) Meaning HDV input/ DV input (78) HDV output/ DV output (43, 76) i. SHIFT (54) Picture effect (62) Digital effect (61) Manual focus (54) PROGRAM AE (52) . n Sharpness (54 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 39
scene of the most recent recording is played back for about 5 seconds, and the camcorder enters the standby mode at the point where the last recording has finished. Reviewing the most recently recorded scenes (Rec review) You can view about 2 seconds of the scene recorded just before you stopped - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 40
Power zoom (p. 32, 34) I DISPLAY (p. 21) J Memory control buttons (Index*, -/+, Memory playback) (p. 31) * These buttons are not available during Easy Handycam operation. 40 • Aim the Remote Commander towards the remote sensor to operate your camcorder (p. 35). • To change the battery, see page 121 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 41
Recording/Playback To cancel the operation Press ZERO SET MEMORY 5 again before rewinding. • There may be a discrepancy of several seconds between the time code and the tape counter. • Zero set memory will not function correctly if there is a blank section between recorded sections on the tape. - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 42
also to the instruction manuals supplied with the device to be connected. • Cancel Easy Handycam operation (p. 28) before connecting. Selecting the connection method according to your TV type and connectors High definition TV HD (high definition) image quality* • An HDV formatted picture is played - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 43
and connect the cable. 4 1 3 2 Connecting to a high definition TV Type Camcorder Cable TV A 1 Component video cable (supplied) (Green) Y (Blue) PB/CB (Red) PR/CR : Signal flow Menu Setting (STANDARD SET) [VCR HDV/DV] t [AUTO] (p. 65) [COMPONENT] t [1080i/480i] (p. 67) A/V connecting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 44
is not compatible with HDV1080i, connect your camcorder and TV with the supplied component video cable and A/V connecting cable as illustrated in . • The TV needs to be set so that it recognizes that the camcorder is connected. See the instruction manuals supplied with your TV. Connecting to a 16 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 45
TV Menu Setting (STANDARD SET) [VCR HDV/DV] t [AUTO] (p. 65) [i.LINK CONV] t [ON (HDV t DV)] (p. 68) • The TV needs to be set so that it recognizes that the camcorder is connected. See the instruction manuals supplied with your TV. A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (optional) 2 (Red) (White - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 46
jack and external device supplies high quality images and digital audio to you. When connecting to your TV via a VCR Select the connecting method on page 74 depending on the input jack of the VCR. Connect your camcorder to the LINE IN input on the VCR using the A/V connecting cable. Set the input - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 47
47 Recording/Playback - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 48
the Menu Using the menu items Follow the instructions below to use each of the menu items listed On Personal Menu, short-cuts for frequently used menu items are added. • You can customize Personal Menu as you like (p. 71). 1 Touch . 6 0 min STBY 0:00:00 MENU DISP GUIDE 1/3 DIAL SET SMOOTH - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 49
Menu If you decide not to change the setting, touch to return to the previous screen. x To use menu items during Easy Handycam operation is not displayed during Easy Handycam operation (p. 28). 60min EASY STBY MENU 1 Touch [MENU]. Available menu items appear on the screen. 2 Select the desired menu - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 50
Position of lamp: TAPE MEMORY PLAY/EDIT Easy Handycam CAMERA SET menu (p. 52) PROGRAM AE z - AUTO FOCUS z z - AUTO TELE MACRO z z - OFF FLASH SET z z - */OFF SUPER NS z - - OFF NS LIGHT - OFF SMTH SLW REC z - - - PictBridge PRINT - - z - USB SELECT 50 - - z - - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 51
HDV/DV - REC FORMAT z DV SET z VOLUME - MULTI-SOUND - LCD/VF SET z COMPONENT z i.LINK CONV z TV TYPE z DISP GUIDE Handycam - - ON - z - - z - - z - - z - - z AUTO - - z* - z SP*/16:9 WIDE*/ */-* - z z* - z STEREO z z - /NORMAL/ - / NORMAL z z 1080i - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 52
to shoot distant subjects clearly. This setting also prevents your camcorder from focusing on glass or metal mesh in windows that comes in between the camcorder and the subject. • Items with one asterisk (*) [AUTO] t [END]. • If you set [SPOT METER], [EXPOSURE] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 53
in the memory, the indicator stops flashing. •Do not shake your camcorder while is flashing quickly. • flashes slowly if white balance could not be set. •If keeps flashing even after you have touched , set [WHITE BAL.] to [AUTO]. • If you have changed the battery pack while [AUTO] is selected, taken - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 54
higher value, pictures appear reddish. • You can also adjust the setting manually using the CAM CTRL dial (p. 72). SPOT FOCUS You can select and ] in step 1. • If you set [SPOT FOCUS], [FOCUS] is automatically set to [MANUAL]. • The setting returns to [AUTO] when you set the POWER switch to OFF (CHG - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 55
time. • Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 54) when it is hard to focus automatically. FLASH SET You can set this function when you use the built-in flash or an external flash (optional) that is compatible with your camcorder. x FLASH LEVEL HIGH( ) Makes the flash level higher. B NORMAL( ) LOW - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 56
• Adjust the focus manually ([FOCUS], p. 54) when it is hard to focus automatically. • The shutter speed of your camcorder changes depending on the brightness You can adjust the [EXPOSURE] or [AE SHIFT] checking the [HISTOGRAM] window. The [HISTOGRAM] will not be recorded on a tape or "Memory Stick - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 57
use the tele conversion lens (optional). DIAL SET You can assign an item you want to set to the CAM CTRL dial and adjust it manually using the CAM CTRL dial. B FOCUS Assigns the [FOCUS] (p. 54) setting to the CAM CTRL dial. EXPOSURE Assigns the [EXPOSURE] (p. 53) setting to the CAM - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 58
Image quality is automatically fixed to [FINE] during Easy Handycam operation. x IMAGE SIZE B 4.0M ( 4.0M ) 3.0M 10 24 16 96 37 240 32MB 15 20 32 190 37 48 75 485 64MB 31 41 65 390 using the "Memory Stick Duo" made by Sony Corporation. The number of recordable pictures varies depending - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 59
fixed to [ 2.3M] in HDV or DV format (16:9) and [1.7M] in DV format (4:3). • All numbers measured at the following setting: Top: [FINE] is selected for image quality. Bottom: [STANDARD] is selected for image quality. • When using the "Memory Stick Duo" made by Sony - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 60
is full (a maximum of 9,999 images are stored) a new folder is automatically created. Touch [YES] t . • You cannot delete the created folders using your camcorder. You will have to format the "Memory Stick Duo" (p. 60), or delete them using your computer. • The number of recordable pictures on - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 61
the desired effect in [STBY] (during fading in) or [REC] (during fading out) mode, then touch . 2 Press START/STOP. The fader indicator stops flashing and disappears when the fade is complete. To cancel before starting the operation, touch [OFF] in step 1. Once you press START/STOP, the setting is - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 62
recorded still image. FLASH (flash motion) Records a a dark place. • Adjust the focus manually using a tripod (optional) since adjusting the camcorder. • You cannot add effects to externally input pictures. Also, you cannot output playback pictures edited with digital effects via the HDV/DV - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 63
with picture effects are output via the HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) without effect control. moving subjects and actions, which cannot be captured under the general shooting conditions, can be t [ON] t t . 2 Press PHOTO fully. stops flashing and the interval still image recording starts. To cancel [INT. - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 64
USB SELECT You can connect the camcorder to a personal computer with a USB cable and view pictures on the computer. You can also connect the camcorder of the screen. This is not a malfunction. **Pictures output from the HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) cannot be played back smoothly in slow mode. 2 Touch - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 65
. See page 48 for details on selecting menu items. VCR HDV/DV Select the playback signal. Normally select [AUTO]. When your camcorder is connected to another device using an i.LINK cable, select the signal to input/output from the HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK). The selected signal is recorded or played - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 66
cable before changing the [VCR HDV/DV] setting. Otherwise, the connected device, such as a VCR, may not be able to recognize the video signal from your camcorder. • When [AUTO] is selected, when the signal switches between HDV and DV . Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV. - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 67
When you select [BRIGHT], battery life is slightly reduced during recording. COMPONENT Select [COMPONENT] when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack. 480i Select when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack. B 1080i/480i Select when connecting your - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 68
. • For input signal via an i.LINK connection, see [VCR HDV/DV] (p. 65). • Disconnect the i.LINK cable before setting [i.LINK CONV]. Otherwise, the connected video device may not be able to recognize the video signal from your camcorder. TV TYPE You need to convert the signal depending on the TV - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 69
are played back. • appears for a picture recorded using a flash. • In the DATE/TIME data display, the date and and [--:--:--] will appear. • During Easy Handycam operation, you can set only [DATE/TIME 40). • Set to [OFF] to prevent your camcorder from responding to a command sent by another VCR - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 70
canceled. This is to protect the tape and to prevent from unnecessarily battery exhausting. To resume recording, press START/STOP again. TIME/LANGU. selecting menu items. CLOCK SET See page 23. WORLD TIME When using your camcorder abroad, you can set the time difference by touching / , the clock - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 71
[P-MENU SET UP] t [DELETE]. If the desired menu item is not displayed, touch / . 6 0 min STBY Select button to delete. 0:00:00 MENU DISP GUIDE END 1/3 DIAL SET SMOOTH SLWREC TELE MACRO EXPOSURE 2 Touch the menu item that you want to delete. 6 0 min DELETE STBY 0:00:00 Delete this - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 72
be set - [FOCUS] (p. 54) - [EXPOSURE] (p. 53) - [AE SHIFT] (p. 54) - [WB SHIFT] (p. 54) • You can easily change settings only with the CAM CTRL dial and the MANUAL button while recording. • During playback (when the POWER switch is set to PLAY/EDIT), you can adjust the volume with the CAM CTRL dial - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 73
1 Set the POWER switch to CAMERA-TAPE or CAMERA- MEMORY. 2 Press the MANUAL button. The indicator of the setting item appears on the screen. 9 1. 2 CTRL dial and adjust the setting. Adjust the focus manually for the [FOCUS] setting. Press the MANUAL button again when you want to return to the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 74
to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected. Connecting to external devices The connection method and the image quality will differ depending on the VCR/DVD device and the connectors used. : Signal flow Camcorder Cable External device i.LINK cable (optional) HDV1080i - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 75
cable before changing these menu settings, otherwise the VCR/DVD device may not correctly identify the video signal. Copy format Camcorder recording format Format supported by the VCR/DVD device HDV format*1 DV format Copy HDV recording as HDV HDV HDV -*3 Convert HDV recording to DV HDV DV - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 76
are interrupted temporarily. • When the recorder is HDR-HC3, set [VCR HDV/DV] to [AUTO] on the recorder and the player (p. 65). • When the player and the recorder are both HDV1080i compatible devices such as HDRHC3 and connected with the i.LINK cable, after pausing or stopping and then resuming the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 77
• When dubbing to a DVD recorder from your camcorder in DV format through an i.LINK cable, you may not operate your camcorder on your DVD recorder even its instruction manual says you can. If you can set the input mode to DV on your DVD recorder and can input/output pictures, follow the steps in - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 78
the input signal of your camcorder. Set [VCR HDV/DV] to [AUTO] when recording from an HDV format compatible device. Set [VCR HDV/DV] to [DV] or [AUTO] when recording from a DV format compatible device (p. 65). 3 Connect your VCR as a player to your camcorder. When an i.LINK cable is connected, the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 79
VCR appear on the screen of your camcorder. 3 Press PHOTO lightly at the scene tape and a "Memory Stick Duo" inserted into your camcorder. 1 Slide the POWER switch to turn on the Duo" are recorded. On your camcorder, the date and time the back in the HDV format. Still images will be fixed to image - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 80
position (p. 114). Selecting still images for printing (Print mark) The DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) standard is used to select images for printing on your camcorder. By marking images that you want to print out, you do not need to reselect them when you print them out (You cannot specify the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 81
to the printer 1 Slide the POWER switch to turn on the PLAY/EDIT lamp. 2 Connect the (USB) jack of your camcorder to the printer using the USB cable. [USB SELECT] appears on the screen automatically. 3 Touch [PictBridge PRINT]. When connection is complete, (PictBridge connecting) appears - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 82
stops working, disconnect the USB cable, turn the printer off cut off. • Some printer models may not support the date/ time printing function. Refer to your printer's operating instructions for details. • We cannot guarantee the printing of images recorded with a device other than your camcorder - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 83
Active Interface Shoe supplies power to optional accessories such as a video light, a flash, or a microphone. The accessory can be turned on or off as you operate the POWER switch on your camcorder. Refer to the operating instructions supplied with your accessory for details. • When you connect an - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 84
computer t p. 84 Copying the movie on a tape in the HDV format to the computer t p. 87 Copying the movie on a tape in the DV format to the computer t p. 87 About connection There are 2 ways to connect your camcorder to a computer: - USB cable When copying pictures on a "Memory Stick Duo" - i.LINK - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 85
the computer to recognize the camcorder when you connect the USB cable for the first time. • You can also select [ Memory Stick] from [USB SELECT] of (PICT.APPLI). • During the Easy Handycam operation, you can set by connecting the USB cable. Copying the pictures For Windows users Double-click the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 86
the USB cable For Windows users If [USB CONNECT] appears on the LCD screen, follow the procedure below to disconnect the USB cable. 1 Click [Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device-Drive]. Click here. 3 Click [OK]. 4 Disconnect the USB cable from the camcorder and computer. If [USB CONNECT] does not - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 87
of the software for the details on image copying. • Refer to the operating instructions of the editing software for the recommended connection. • Some editing software on the computer may not work correctly. HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) i.LINK cable (optional) Using a Computer Continued , 87 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 88
to a computer that does not support the video signal formats appearing on the LCD screen of your camcorder display (HDV or DV). - Changing the [VCR HDV/DV] and [i.LINK CONV] settings on the (STANDARD SET) menu while connected with an i.LINK cable. - Changing the [REC FORMAT] setting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 89
HDV/DV To HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) : Signal flow • Images recorded in HDV format are down-converted to SD (standard definition) quality when copying to DVDs (They are not copied in the HD (high definition) quality). • You can only use an i.LINK cable for this operation. You cannot use a USB cable - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 90
/EDIT lamp. 4 Touch t [MENU] t (STANDARD SET) t [i.LINK CONV] t [ON (HDV t DV)] t . 5 Insert a recorded cassette into your camcorder. 6 Connect your camcorder to a computer via an i.LINK cable (p. 89). • When you connect your camcorder to a computer, make sure you insert the connector in the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 91
after [Finalizing DVD.] is displayed on the LCD screen of your camcorder. • Do not disconnect the i.LINK cable or set the POWER switch to another mode on your camcorder until the picture is completely copied to the computer. • When [CONVERTING] or [WRITING] is displayed on the screen, capturing of - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 92
into any problems using your camcorder, use the following table to troubleshoot the problem. If the problem persists, disconnect the power source and contact your Sony dealer. Overall operations/Easy Handycam The power does not turn on. • Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 15). • Use - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 93
completed (p. 15). The CHG (charge) lamp flashes while the battery pack is being charged. • Attach the battery pack to the camcorder correctly (p. 15). If the problem persists, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the wall outlet and contact your Sony dealer. The battery pack may be damaged. The power - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 94
(p. 16). • Attach a charged battery pack to the camcorder (p. 15). • Moisture condensation has occurred inside the camcorder (p. 119). The Cassette Memory indicator or title display does not appear while using a cassette with Cassette Memory. • This camcorder does not support Cassette Memory, so the - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 95
-forwarding. • When using the AC Adaptor, rewind/fast forward speed increases (compared with battery operation) and therefore increases noise. This is not a malfunction. "Memory Stick Duo" file is damaged. • The file format is not supported on your camcorder (p. 114). Continued , 95 Troubleshooting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 96
Troubleshooting (Continued) The data file name flashes. • The file is damaged. • The file format is not supported on your camcorder (p. 114). Recording Refer even when you turn the power off). • Do not record pictures in the HDV and DV formats on the same tape. • Do not record pictures in SP mode and - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 97
the BACK LIGHT function is canceled. - [MANUAL] of [EXPOSURE] - [SPOT METER] • The BACK LIGHT function does not work during Easy Handycam operation (p. 28). The [FLASH LEVEL] cannot be changed. • [FLASH LEVEL] (p. 55) cannot be changed during Easy Handycam operation. Continued , 97 Troubleshooting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 98
Troubleshooting (Continued) [DIGITAL ZOOM] does not function. • [DIGITAL ZOOM] does not function when you set [TELE MACRO] to [ON]. Tiny spots in white, Rewind the tape (p. 31). You cannot play back in reverse direction. • Reverse playback is not possible with the tape recorded in the HDV format. 98 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 99
with other camcorders on the file name flashes). This the A/V connecting cable are also HDV and DV formats. This is not a malfunction. The movies freeze for a while, or the sound breaks off. • This occurs if the tape or video head is dirty (p. 119). • Use the Sony mini DV cassette. Troubleshooting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 100
of your camcorder (NTSC). cable. • You cannot view the picture in the HD (high definition) quality on the TV which is not compatible with the HDV1080i specification (p. 42). Refer to the instruction manuals supplied with your TV. • Down convert the pictures recorded in HDV format and play back in DV - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 101
the LCD screen. • This appears when you play back a tape recorded on other recording devices using a 4ch microphone (4CH MIC REC). This camcorder does not comply with the 4ch microphone recording standard. Remote Commander The supplied Remote Commander does not function. • Set [REMOTE CTRL] to [ON - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 102
Troubleshooting (Continued) You cannot use [SPOT METER]. • You cannot use [SPOT METER] together with: be operated. • You cannot use [AE SHIFT] together with: - [CINEMA EFECT] of [D.EFFECT] - [MANUAL] of [EXPOSURE] You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS]. • You cannot use [SPOT FOCUS] together with [PROGRAM AE - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 103
You cannot use [CINEMA EFECT] together with: - [EXPOSURE] set to [MANUAL] - Other than 0 in [AE SHIFT] - [PICT.EFFECT] - When [ WIDE SELECT] of [DV SET] is set to [4:3] - [PROGRAM AE] - [SPOT METER] EFFECT] • You cannot use [SMTH SLW REC] while performing END SEARCH. Continued , 103 Troubleshooting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 104
is connected to the input jack of the other device for dubbing a picture from your camcorder. When connected using an i.LINK cable, no picture appears on the monitor screen during dubbing. • Set [VCR HDV/DV] on the (STANDARD SET) menu according to the requirements of the connected device (p. 65 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 105
again. Troubleshooting Your computer freezes. • Set [VCR HDV/DV] of device. (STANDARD SET) correctly according to the connected • During the Easy Handycam operation, set the menu after canceling the Easy Handycam operation (p. 28). • Disconnect the cable from your computer and camcorder. Reboot - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 106
Troubleshooting (Continued) You cannot copy images to the Windows computer. • Display pictures recorded on a "Memory Stick Duo" with the following procedures. 1 Double-click [My Computer]. 2 Double-click the icon for the newly recognized drive [ - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 107
your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility. C:(or E:) ss:ss (Self-diagnosis display) C:04:ss • The battery pack is not an "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack. Use an "InfoLITHIUM" battery pack (p. 116). • Connect the DC plug of the AC Adaptor to the DC IN jack of your camcorder securely - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 108
easily occurs. Use the flash. • The camcorder is unsteady, so camerashake easily occurs. Hold the camcorder steady with both hands instructions. • When is displayed, the message can be turned into by touching . Touch to display the message again. x Battery/Power Use the "InfoLITHIUM" battery - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 109
the "Memory Stick Duo" a few times. If even then the indicator flashes, the "Memory Stick Duo" might be damaged. Try with another "Memory exceeding 999MSDCF. You cannot delete created folders using your camcorder. • You will have to format the "Memory Stick 32). Continued , 109 Troubleshooting - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 110
the printer and switch it on again, then disconnect the USB cable and reconnect it. x Flash Charging... Cannot record still images. • You are trying to record a still image while charging the flash (optional). Lens accessory attached. Cannot use flash. (p. 33) x Lens cover Lens cover not fully open - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 111
TV color systems Your camcorder is NTSC system, so HDV format pictures recorded in HDV format You need an HDV1080i compatible TV (or monitor) with a component jack and AUDIO/VIDEO input jack. A component video cable and A/V connecting cable are also needed. Viewing DV format pictures recorded in DV - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 112
Cassette Memory. What is the HDV format? The HDV format is a video format developed to record and play back digital high definition (HD) video signals on a DV cassette. Your camcorder adopts the Interlace mode with 1,080 effective scan lines of screen ruling (1080i, number of pixels 1,440 × 1,080 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 113
shown in the following illustration so as not to cause a malfunction of your camcorder. Do not put a label along this border. Labeling position x After using may not show correctly. Gold-plated connector On Sony HDV1080i compliant TVs An HDV format compatible TV with the component input jack is required - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 114
you eject the "Memory Stick Duo," turn the power off on your camcorder, or remove the battery pack for replacement while your camcorder is reading or writing image files on the "Memory Stick Duo" (while the access lamp is lit or flashing). • If you use the "Memory Stick Duo" near magnets or magnetic - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 115
the following locations. • Places subject to extremely high temperature, such as a car parked outside in the summer. • Places under direct unit. x On a "Memory Stick PRO Duo" • The maximum memory capacity of a "Memory Stick PRO Duo" that can be used on your camcorder is 2 GB. On image data - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 116
will not be restored if it is used in high temperatures for a long time, or if left in a fully charged state, or when the battery pack is frequently used. Use the remaining battery time indication as a rough guide only. • The E mark that indicates low battery flashes even if there are still 5 to 10 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 117
new one. • Each battery's life is governed by storage, operating and environmental conditions. The HDV/DV Interface on this unit is with an i.LINK cable. When connecting this unit to an HDV/DV compatible device having two or more HDV/DV Interfaces, refer to the operating instructions of the device - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 118
, refer also to the operating instructions for the device to be connected. About the required i.LINK cable Use the Sony i.LINK 4-pin-to-4-pin cable (during HDV/DV dubbing). 118 Maintenance and precautions On use and care • Do not use or store the camcorder and accessories in the following locations - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 119
. • If the battery electrolytic liquid has leaked, - consult your local authorized Sony service facility. - wash off any liquid that may have contacted your skin. - if any liquid gets in your eyes, wash with plenty of water and consult a doctor. x When not using your camcorder for a long time - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 120
HDV DV Sony service facility to have the video heads replaced. LCD screen • Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause damage. • If your camcorder cables other than that of the AC Adaptor from your camcorder, then eject the cassette and "Memory Stick Duo" from your camcorder - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 121
of in fire. • When the lithium battery becomes weak, the operating distance of the Remote Commander may shorten, or the Remote Commander may not function properly. In this case, replace the battery with a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 122
in the direction of the arrow to remove it. • The finder lens block is a precision part. You cannot disassemble it further. • Do not touch the window or lens of the finder lens block. 122 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 123
a camera blower. • You cannot disassemble your camcorder further because it is a precision component. 5 HDV) Rotary heads, MPEG-1 Audio Layer -2, Quantization: 16 bits (Fs 48 kHz, stereo) transfer rate: 384 kbps Audio recording system (DV) Rotary heads, PCM system Quantization: 12 bits (Fs 32 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 124
Focal length f=5.1 ~ 51 mm (7/32 ~ 2 1/8 in.) When converted to a 35 mm still camera In CAMERA-TAPE *2 : 41.3 ~ 485 mm (1 11/16 ~ 19 1/8 in.) such as your camcorder's setting information LANC jack Stereo mini-minijack (Ø 2.5 mm) USB jack mini-B HDV/DV jack i.LINK Interface (IEEE 1394, 4-pin connector - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 125
) including the NP-FP60 rechargeable battery pack and DVM60 cassette. Supplied accessories See page 14. AC Adaptor AC-L200 Power requirements AC 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz Current consumption 0.35 - 0.18 A Power consumption 18 W Output voltage DC 8.4 V* Operating temperature 0 °C to + 40 °C (32 °F to 104 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 126
Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc in the U.S. and other countries. • HDV and the HDV logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation and Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. • HDMI, , and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing Interface LLC - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 127
reference pages. 1 9 2 3 0 4 5 qa qs 6 qd 7 8 qf A Power zoom lever (32) B PHOTO button (30) C POWER switch (19) D Viewfinder (20) E Eyecup (122) F Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (20) G Battery pack/battery terminal cover (15) H START/STOP button (30) I Active Interface Shoe - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 128
(33) B MANUAL button (33) C NIGHTSHOT switch (33) D Zoom buttons (32) E START/ STOP button (30) F BACK LIGHT button (33) G DISP/BATT INFO button (34) H EASY button (26) I COMPONENT OUT jack (83) J A/V OUT jack (83) K DC IN jack (83) L LCD screen/touch panel (6, 21) M Speaker (35) N (USB - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 129
8 3 4 9 0 qa A Flash B Lens (Carl Zeiss Lens) (7) C Microphone (35) D Camera recording lamp (35) E LANC jack (83) F HDV/DV Interface (i.LINK) (83) G HDMI OUT jack (83) H Remote sensor (35) I Cassette compartment lid (24) J Hooks for the Shoulder belt K BATT (battery release) lever (16) L Grip - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 130
guide 21 DISP OUTPUT 69 Display indicators 36 DISP/BATT INFO button 20, 34 Down convert function.........12 Dual Rec 32 Dubbing 74 DV format 65 DV SET 66 D.EFFECT (Digital effect 61, 103 E EASY button 26 Easy Handycam 26, 49 EDIT/PLAY menu 64 END SEARCH 39, 65 END SEARCH/Rec review - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 131
charge 16 G Grip belt 19 GUIDEFRAME 68 H HD (high definition) image quality 42 HDMI cable 43 HDMI OUT jack 43, 83 HDV format 65 HDV1080i 12, 66 HDV/DV Interface..........43, 83 HISTOGRAM 56, 103 Holding the camcorder .........19 I Icon .......See Display indicators ID-1 68 Image delete - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 132
review 39 Recording 30 Recording capacity 36 Recording time 17 REDEYE REDUC 55 REMAINING 69 Remaining battery 36 Remote Commander 40 REMOTE CTRL (Remote control 69 Remote sensor 35 RESET button 35 Reversal Playback 64 S S VIDEO cable 45, 74 S VIDEO jack 42, 74 SD (standard definition 32 - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 133
TV TYPE 68 U USB jack 83 USB SELECT 64 Using abroad 111 V VAR.SPD PB (Various speed playback) .....64 VCR HDV/DV 65 VF B.LIGHT ( 54 WHITE BAL. (White balance 53, 102 WHITE FADER 61 Wide angle 32 WIDE SELECT 66 Windows 84 WORLD TIME 70 Write-protect tab ........ 112, 114 Z ZEBRA - Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 134
- Sony HDR HC3 | Operating Guide - Page 135
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2-661-355-
12
(1)
© 2006 Sony Corporation
Printed on 100% recycled paper using
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free
vegetable oil based ink.
Printed in Japan
US
Additional information on this product and answers
to frequently asked questions can be found at our
Customer Support Website.
Digital HD Video Camera Recorder
Operating Guide
HDR-HC3
Enjoying pictures with
high definition quality
12
Getting Started
14
Easy Handycam
26
Recording/
Playback
30
Using the Menu
48
Dubbing/Editing
74
Using a Computer
84
Troubleshooting
92
Additional Information
111
Quick Reference
127