Sony HVR1500A Product Manual (HVE-1500A Operating Manuals) - Page 40

Chapter 2 Preparations Usable Cassettes This unit can use the HDV and DVCAM cassettes listed below. Standard size DVCAM cassettes can record and play back 184 minutes, and Mini size (S) DVCAM cassettes can record and play back 40 minutes. Standard size HDV cassettes can record and play back 276 minutes, and Mini size (S) HDV/DV (SP) cassettes can record and play back 63 minutes. DVCAM cassettes Model name PDV-34*/64*/94*/124*/184* PDVM-12*/22*/32*/34*/40* Size Standard size (L) Mini size (S) HDV cassettes Model name Size PHDV-64DM/124DM/186DM/ Standard size (L) 276DM PHDVM-63DM Mini size (S) The * in each model name is actually "ME" (indicating that a cassette memory is contained), "N" (indicating that no cassette memory is contained) or "MEM" (indicating a master tape). The numbers in each model name indicate the maximum recording/playback time (in minutes) for each model. For example, the PDV-184ME has a maximum recording/ playback time of 184 minutes. For details of the format, see "Recording Formats and Input/Output Signals" (page 35). Notes • DVCPRO (25 Mbps) cassettes are usable for playback, but not for recording on this unit. • If you insert an unsupported type of cassette, it will be automatically ejected. • This unit can use consumer DV or HDV cassettes, but video or audio noise may occur on some tapes. For reliable playback, editing, recording, and storage, use DVCAM or HDV 1) cassettes. • Cassettes that have been recorded by a DV-format recorder can be played back on this unit but cannot be used for recording at editing operation. When you insert such a cassette into this unit, the NO EDIT indicator lights up in the LCD monitor. 1) The Digital Master series is recommended for professional-use HDV tapes. Digital Master is a trademark of Sony Corporation. HDV/DVCAM cassettes The following figure illustrates the HDV/DVCAM cassettes. REC/SAVE switch For details of this switch, see "Preventing accidental erasure" (page 41). Mini size (S) Standard size (L) Cassette memory This memory is used to store ClipLink log data. Cassette compatibility For HDV recording, a DV standard cassette tape can be used. The HDV 1080i format used by this unit has a video bitrate for recording of 25 Mbps, and the recording track width on the tape is 10 μm, the same as the consumer DV(SP) format. The DVCAM format has a track width of 15 μm, 1.5 times that of the HDV or DV(SP) format. Therefore, when recording in DVCAM format on the same tape, the recording time is two-thirds that for HDV recording or DV(SP) recording. Notes on using cassettes • Before storing the cassette for a long period of time, 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. 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, causing 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. • If a tape is left in the unit, this may cause problems. Before powering off the unit, it is recommended to press the EJECT button to eject the tape. For information about how to check the tape for slack, see the next section. Checking the tape for slack Using a paper clip or a similar object, turn the reel gently in the direction shown by the arrow. If the reel does not 40 Usable Cassettes