Sony BRC300 Operating Instructions - Page 5

Getting Started Typical CCD Phenomena The following phenomena may appear on the monitor screen while you are using the BRC-300/300P color video camera. These phenomena stem from the high sensitivity of the CCD image sensors, and do not indicate a fault within the camera. Vertical smear A "smear" may appear to extend vertically from very bright subjects, as shown below. Video monitor screen Pale vertical smear Getting Started Precautions Operating or storage location Operating or storing the camera in the following locations may cause damage to the camera: • Extremely hot or cold places (Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C [32°F to 104°F]) • Exposed in direct sunlight for a long time, or close to heating equipment (e.g., near heaters) • Close to sources of strong magnetism • Close to sources of powerful electromagnetic radiation, such as radios or TV transmitters • Locations subject to strong vibration or shock Very bright subject (such as an electric lamp, fluorescent lamp, sunlight, or strong reflected light) Ventilation To prevent heat buildup, do not block air circulation around the camera. Transportation When transporting the camera, repack it as originally packed at the factory or in materials equal in quality. This phenomenon is common to CCD imaging elements using an interline transfer system, and is caused when electric charge induced by infrared radiation deep within the photo sensor is transferred to the resistors. Aliasing When shooting fine stripes, straight lines or similar patterns, the lines may become slightly jagged. Blemishes A CCD image sensor consists of an array of individual picture elements (pixels). A malfunctioning sensor element will show up as a single pixel blemish in the image. This is generally not a problem. White speckles When you shoot a poorly illuminated object at a high temperature, small white dots may appear all over the entire screen image. Cleaning • Use a blower to remove dust from the lens or optical filter. • Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the external surfaces of the camera. Stubborn stains can be removed using a soft cloth dampened with a small quantity of detergent solution, then wipe dry. • Do not use volatile solvents such as alcohol, benzene or thinners as they may damage the surface finishes. Maintenance The camera mechanism may cause abnormal noise due to wear and lubrication loss after a long period of use. To maintain optimum performance, we recommend periodical maintenance. If abnormal noise occurs, consult with your Sony dealer. Note on laser beams Laser beams may damage a CCD. You are cautioned that the surface of a CCD should not be exposed to laser beam radiation in an environment where a laser beam device is used. Precautions / Typical CCD Phenomena 5