Sony DCR DVD100 DVD Handycam User Manual Technology Handbook DCRDVD100 Hbook

DCR-DVD200 DVD Handycam Technology Handbook DCRDVD200_Hbook

User Manual: Sony DCR-DVD100 DVD Handycam Technology Handbook

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© 2003 Sony Corporation

2DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

2

Introduction

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

CAMCORDERS: AN INTRODUCTION

3

CAMCORDERS: AN INTRODUCTION

Sony led the way in video camcorders. The first consumer cassette

camcorder was developed by Sony. And in 1985, Sony's compact,

lightweight 8mm Handycam® camcorders expanded the world of home

video by making memories easy to shoot, play, and share anytime,

anywhere.

Sony also led the way in digital technology. Sony CD and MD recording

raised the standard of excellence in music reproduction. And Sony DV

Handycam models adopted digital video for high-quality recording and

multi-generation editing.

Now, Sony takes the next step in digital video: DVD Handycam®

camcorders. They use DVD discs as their digital recording medium -- so

movies can be shot on disc, stored on disc, edited in the camcorder,

even uploaded to a PC for creative editing and easy sharing.

DVD offers significant advantages over cassette tape. Discs allow instant

access and rapid scene search without fast-forward or rewind. They

record video, audio, even still images. They're more compact and durable

as a storage and playback medium.

Best of all, DVD recordings can be played back on PCs, DVD players,

even PlayStation® 2 video game consoles -- for instant compatibility with

over 100 million playback devices around the globe.

Sony DVD Handycam camcorders are new and exciting. This handbook

explains basic DVD technology, highlights DVD Handycam camcorder

features, answers common questions, and helps you understand and

appreciate the exciting possibilities of this next step in camcorder

evolution.

4DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CAMCORDERS: AN INTRODUCTION 3

DVD: A BRIEF HISTORY 5

DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY 6

DVD VIDEO RECORDING APPLICATIONS 10

THE DVD HANDYCAM CONCEPT 12

DVD HANDYCAM RECORD MODES AND MEDIA 14

DVD HANDYCAM STILL-IMAGE RECORDING 15

DVD HANDYCAM EDITING 16

FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS) 18

GLOSSARY 20

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

DVD: A BRIEF HISTORY

5

DVD: A BRIEF HISTORY

The DVD format was introduced in 1996. Today, DVD is accepted worldwide, in use for a broad range

of applications -- and its next major impact will be felt in the home video recording market.

DVD Advantages

The development of DVD started 12 years ago. Inspired

by the success of the CD (Digital Audio Compact Disc)

format for music and data recording, manufacturers

began working toward the goal of a new disc format that

would hold two or more hours of high-quality video

recording.

In 1994, two standards were proposed: “MMCD,” from

Sony and Philips, and “SD,” from Toshiba and Pioneer. At

the end of 1995, an agreement was reached on a

common standard. At this point the DVD Consortium was

formed and DVD was ready for marketing. Its first

applications were for prerecorded movies and computer

software (DVD-ROM). Recording standards soon

followed; the DVD-R Book and DVD-RAM Book

standards were defined in 1997.

In 1999, the DVD-RW Book defined a 4.7 GB rewritable

disc format using a short-wavelength red semiconductor

laser. Currently, standardization efforts are underway to

define a next-generation optical disc system using blue

laser technology.

1996 DVD-Video

1997 DVD-R/DVD-RAM/DVD+RW

1998

1999 DVD-RW

2000

2001

2002 DVD+R

Next-generation optical disc

1

3

2

4

DVD is more compact

Because DVD discs are more compact

than videocassettes, they take up less

space inside the camcorder and are

easier to carry, shelve and archive.

DVD provides random access

Videotapes must be wound and rewound

on their reels, which takes time and

creates wear. DVD discs never require

rewinding -- and the search process is

virtually instantaneous.

DVD is more durable

Videocassette recording requires contact

between videotape and recording head. In

the DVD system, the optical laser pickup

does not touch the disc itself, so there is

far less wear during recording and

playback.

DVD recordings can't be

erased

Videotapes can be erased within a VCR or

by exposure to strong magnets. With DVD,

there is no danger that contents may be

accidentally erased.

6DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

The Basic Structure of a DVD

Although a 12cm (4-3/4") DVD is the same size as a standard CD, its high-density format allows

more than 7 times more data to be recorded on a single disc.

DVD consists of a dual-layered disc 12cm (4-3/4") or 8cm (3-1/8") in diameter. Each layer has a thickness of 0.6mm

(1/32").

Various kinds of DVD suit the needs of various applications, such as DVD-ROM (for playback only), DVD-R (for one-

time recording), and DVD-RW (for rewritable recording).

DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

●Structure of DVD-ROM

Protection Layer

Record Layer

Base

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

7

DVD-ROM for Playback Only

DVD-R for Recording Once

DVD-ROM discs are for commercial prerecorded movies,

computer software programs, etc. Data is stored in the

form of microscopic “pits” in the record layer of the disc.

These pits are scanned by a laser and then “read” as

minute reflections. These minute changes in reflection

DVD-R discs are for recording only once. Since data

recorded to disc cannot be erased, DVD-R is a good

choice for data that requires long-term storage. Unlike

commercially recorded DVD-ROM discs, DVD-R discs

are recorded by a process of chemical change within the

surface of the disc. After a DVD-R disc is recorded, data

●Record Layer of DVD-ROM

Pit

Track pitch

0.74µm

●Record Layer of DVD-R

Track pitch

0.74µm

Groove

Land

are converted to signals for further processing. There are

four different DVD configurations: single-sided discs with

one or two recordable layers, and double-sided discs

with one or two recordable layers.

is read by the optical pickup in a manner similar to the

process of reading a DVD-ROM disc; this similarity

makes DVD-R recordings compatible with DVD playback

units. Recorded (or “written”) areas of a disc are called

“grooves”; unrecorded (or “unwritten”) area is called

“land.”

8DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

DVD-RW for Repeatable Recording

DVD-RW discs allow repeated recording, erasing, and

re-recording of data. Data is rewritable approximately

1,000 times. This capability makes DVD-RW widely used

in applications that require data editing and future

updating. The recording and playback process is

basically similar to the process of DVD-R recording.

DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

Track pitch

0.74µm

Groove

Land

●Record Layer of DVD-RW

In addition to DVD-ROM, DVD-R and DVD-RW, the following DVD standards also are currently being marketed.

DVD-RAM A rewritable media allowing up to 100,000 reliable rewriting operations. It cannot be played back on

standard DVD players; only players supporting DVD-RAM can be used.

DVD+R A once-only recording media similar in capability to DVD-R.

DVD+RW A rewritable media similar in capability to DVD-RW.

Other DVD Formats

DVD Handycam camcorders use both DVD-R and DVD-RW discs. Discs are 8cm (3-1/8") in diameter; they can be

single-sided with one recordable layer, or double-sided with one recordable layer per side.

In the case of DVD-RW, however, the chemical change

that takes place within the surface of the disc during

recording is reversible, allowing data to be erased and

re-recorded. DVD-RW recordings are also compatible

with most DVD players.

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

DVD MEDIA TECHNOLOGY

9

DVD Capacity

DVD-ROM, DVD-R and DVD-RW discs 12cm (4-3/4") in

size, which all share the same “one layer, one side”

structure, have a storage capacity of 4.7 GB --

approximately 7 times larger than the capacity of a CD

disc the same size. DVD Handycam camcorders use

smaller DVD-R or DVD-RW discs 8mm (3-1/8") in size.

4.7GB 1.4GB

●Comparison of CD-ROM and DVD-ROM

CD-ROM DVD-ROM

the minimum

pitch size

0.83µm

diameter of spot

1.4µm

Track pitch

1.6µm

the minimum

pitch size

0.4µm

diameter of spot

0.9µm

Track pitch

0.74µm

About Lasers and Lenses

DVD recording uses a short-wavelength red semiconductor laser. The wavelength of this laser is 650nm (nanometers). The

NA (numerical aperture) of the object lens used for optical pickup is 0.6. This combination yields a small-diameter “spotlight”

and high-density recording capacity. By comparison, CD recording uses a semiconductor laser with a wavelength of 780nm

and a NA of 0.45.

12cm (4-3/4")-diameter disc 8cm (3-1/8")-diameter disc

These smaller discs, single-sided with one recordable

layer per side, have storage capacity of 1.4 GB. Small

double-sided discs with one recordable layer per side are

also available for DVD Handycam camcorder recording;

these discs have a storage capacity of 2.8 GB -- enough

to hold approximately two hours of video recording.

10 DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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DVD VIDEO RECORDING APPLICATIONS

What is an Application Standard?

There are two video recording applications for DVD discs: DVD-Video, offering maximum

compatibility, and DVD-VR (Video Recording), for simple in-camera editing.

An application standard, such as DVD-Video or DVD-VR, is not the same as a physical standard, such as DVD-ROM,

DVD-R, or DVD-RW. A physical standard refers to the disc itself; application standards refer to the recording process,

and determine the recording method to be used for various purposes. For the purpose of recording video with

maximum flexibility for playback compatibility, the DVD-Video application standard is used. For recording video with

limited playback compatibility but additional in-camera editing, the DVD-VR (Video Recording) application standard is

used.

DVD VIDEO RECORDING APPLICATIONS

About Each Application Standard

DVD-Video

DVD-Video was first developed for commercial DVD movies. DVD-Video creates recordings that cannot be edited in the

camcorder. It allows up to 2 hours of moving images and sound. MPEG 2 coding is used for video; Dolby AC-3 coding is

used for sound. DVD-Video recordings can be played back on virtually all DVD players.

DVD-VR

DVD-VR modified the concept of DVD-Video, allowing user-friendly editing functions for consumer recording. DVD-VR

recordings can be played back on a limited number of DVD players that support the DVD-VR application standard.

●How physical standards compare to application standards

Physical standard DVD-R DVD-RW

Application standard DVD-Video DVD-VR

feature

Although DVD-R can only be written once, it

can be played back on many models of DVD

player.

DVD-RW is rewritable for further recording

and can be initialized for re-use, even after

finalizing. However, not all models of DVD

player can play DVD-RW.

DVD recorded in the DVD-Video standard can be played back

on many models of DVD player.

DVD recorded in the

DVD-VR standard can be

edited.

: Can be played back on a DVD player.

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

DVD VIDEO RECORDING APPLICATIONS

11

Video Coding Format

DVD Handycam camcorder movies recorded by the

DVD-Video application standard use MPEG 2 coding to

fit more data on a disc. Widely employed in

communication and broadcasting, MPEG 2 offers

excellent image quality and flexible data handling. Within

the MPEG 2 standard, DVD-Video recordings adopt

MP@ML (Main Profile at Main Level) -- a profile that

provides advanced functions, at a level that maintains

high-quality images.

DVD Handycam camcorder recordings also use

Audio Coding Format

For audio, DVD Handycam camcorders adopt the Dolby

AC-3 (2-channel) format. This format provides an ideal

balance between audio quality and data requirements

-- and is also suitable for a wide range of channel

configurations, including monaural, 2-channel stereo,

and 5.1-channel surround sound applications.

About Initializing and Finalizing

“Initializing” means preparing a disc for recording. DVD-R discs do not require initializing. DVD-RW discs must be initialized,

and this is done inside the DVD Handycam camcorder. Each time you insert a new or uninitialized DVD-RW disc, you will

see a prompt that asks if you wish to initialize your disc. Initializing erases all previously recorded information. If your disc

has already been initialized and partially recorded, it does not require initializing for subsequent recording sessions.

“Finalizing” DVD-R and DVD-RW discs means preparing them for playback. In order to play back your recordings on DVD

players or computers with DVD-ROM drives, you need to finalize your disc. But even without finalizing, you can always view

the contents of your recording using the DVD Handycam camcorder as your playback device -- viewing scenes on your

camcorder's screen, or on your TV screen by connecting direct A/V output on your camcorder to video audio inputs on your

TV.

Once a DVD-R disc has been finalized, no further recording is possible. DVD-RW discs, however, can be “unfinalized” and

initialized again for further recording.

VBR (Variable Bit Rate) coding. Bit rate defines the

amount of data that flows in a given period of time. High

bit rates yield better images, but require an increased

amount of data; low bit rates require less data, but at the

expense of image quality. By varying the bit rate

depending upon the visual content of each video scene,

DVD-Video recording can maintain excellent image

quality while minimizing the amount of data that must be

recorded -- and maximizing the recording capacity of a

single disc.

Another audio recording format, Linear PCM (Pulse

Code Modulation), offers excellent audio quality without

data compression. Although this audio format is suitable

for prerecorded music, music videos, etc., its data

requirements are higher.

12 DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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THE DVD HANDYCAM CONCEPT

THE DVD HANDYCAM CONCEPT

The Concept

3 4

Compatibility with DVD Players

DVD-R and DVD-RW discs recorded by DVD Handycam

camcorders in the DVD-Video application can be easily

played back on most existing DVD players -- making

DVD-Video discs compatible with most decks,

computers and PlayStation 2 consoles worldwide.

Editing with a PC

Data recorded on DVD Handycam camcorders can be

easily played back and editing on a PC. Video can be

transferred from camcorder to PC by inserting the

DVD-R or DVD-RW disc into the disc drive of a PC, or

by connecting the camcorder to the PC via USB. USB

2.0 provides high-speed data transfer. Both DVD-Video

and DVD-VR discs can be edited.

Fast Search & Access

DVD offers many advantages over videocassette tape

systems, including fast search and access to scenes by

selecting thumbnail images. DVD Handycam camcorders

automatically create thumbnail images during the

finalization process; these images can be used for instant

access to the scene you want. Thumbnail images are

viewable whether you use your camcorder playback or

play back scenes on your DVD player or PC computer.

Movies and Still Images

With DVD, a single media can record both movies and

still images. Still images are recorded on the disc as

JPEG files. DVD Handycam camcorders allow you to

play an automatic, continuous “slide show” of your still

images on your TV screen. Both movies and still

images can be recorded on the same DVD-R or DVD-

RW disc.

5 6

High-Density, High-Quality Data

By adopting MPEG 2 and VBR (Variable Bit Rate) data

compression, DVD Handycam recording maintains

superb picture quality while permitting high-capacity

recording on the disc.

High Fidelity Audio

By using Dolby AC-3 (2-channel) audio recording, DVD

Handycam camcorders provide high-quality stereo

sound for lifelike realism.

12

About Thumbnail Display

thumbnails on DVD Handycam thumbnails on DVD players

Sony DVD Handycam camcorders bring unique and exciting advantages to the world of video

recording.

DVD Handycam recorded screens are capable of displaying

recorded contents in the form of thumbnail images -- six images per

screen. Thumbnails can show both movies scenes and still images.

These thumbnail images are automatically created when you

finalize your disc. Unlike systems that only identify movies or

images by time and date, thumbnail images are more useful

because they give you a visual record of what each scene or still

image shows.

Before finalizing, you can always use your DVD Handycam

camcorder as your playback device using the LCD screen or by

connecting the supplied AV cable to your TV. After finalizing a

recorded disc, you can view dated thumbnails on your TV screen

using a standard DVD player or on your PC computer screen. You

can also display the title of your finalized DVD recording.

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

THE DVD HANDYCAM CONCEPT

13

• Place your PlayStation 2 on its side when you play

back 8cm (3-1/8") DVD-R.

• “PlayStation 2” is the property of Sony Computer

Entertainment.

DVD Handycam

DVD recorder

DVD player

* PlayStation 2

PC which can

play back DVD

Note on DVD Player and PC Playback

DVD-R/RW discs recorded by Sony DVD Handycam camcorders are designed to be compatible with and may be played

back on most home DVD players, computer DVD drives, and PlayStation 2 video game consoles sold in the U.S.*

* Playback on all home DVD players, computer DVD drives, and PlayStation 2 consoles cannot be guaranteed. Some

players, drives, and video game consoles lack the ability to read due to the optical reflection standards of DVD-R/RW discs

and/or due to encoding incompatibilities. Refer to the specifications of your playback equipment for additional compatibility

information.

Playback Compatibility

The DVD Handycam camcorder recording system is based on international DVD standards, so DVD Handycam

recordings can be played back on a vast universe of playback devices -- including most DVD players, personal

computers with DVD drives, and PlayStation 2 video game consoles.

14 DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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DVD HANDYCAM RECORD MODES AND MEDIA

In addition to DVD-Video and DVD-VR (Video Recording) applications, you can also select from

three recording modes to determine the image quality and recording time your application demands.

Record mode The standard of the record time Feature

HQ Approximately 20 minutes for single-side/20 minutes × 2 for double-side High image quality

SP Approximately 30 minutes for single-side/30 minutes × 2 for double-side Standard image quality

LP Approximately 60 minutes for single-side/60 minutes × 2 for double-side Longer recording time

∗ The above-mentioned record time is a reference value. Recording time may change depending on the recording situation.

Recommended DVD Media

For use in DVD Handycam camcorders, Sony recommends “DMR30” 8cm (3-1/8") DVD-R discs or “DMW30” DVD-RW discs.

Sony “DMR60DS” and “DMW60DS” 8cm (3-1/8") double-sided discs may also be used.

●Sony 8cm (3-1/8") DVD-R ●Sony 8cm (3-1/8") DVD-RW

DVD HANDYCAM RECORD MODES AND MEDIA

Three Record Modes

Choose among three modes: HQ for the highest quality images, SP to balance image quality and recording time, or

LP for the longest recording time.

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

DVD HANDYCAM STILL-IMAGE RECORDING

15

DVD HANDYCAM STILL-IMAGE RECORDING

DVD Handycam camcorders can also record still images on DVD -- allowing them to function as both

movie camcorders and digital still-image cameras.

Still images can be viewed

or modified on a PC.

The slide show can be

watched in the living room.

JPEG Images

Still images are recorded as digital files in JPEG form. At the time you finalize your DVD-R or DVD-RW disc, you can

create a slide show for playback viewing on your TV using a DVD player or PlayStation 2 game console. And of

course it is also possible to copy JPEG files to your PC.

Playback from Your Camcorder

Using your DVD Handycam camcorder, you can view a slide show of still images without finalizing your DVD disc. In

order to use a DVD player for on-screen playback, you must first finalize your disc.

16 DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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DVD HANDYCAM EDITING

DVD HANDYCAM EDITING

DVD Handycam camcorder recordings provide simple in-camera editing functions that help you

organize your scenes and still images when you shoot in DVD-VR mode.

Insert a movie Cut a movie Divide a movie

Playlist Editing

Playlists can be created on DVD-RW discs recorded by your DVD Handycam camcorder in DVD-VR mode.

By creating a Playlist, you can rearrange your recorded scenes, cut and divide scenes, and create the playback order

that tells your story in the most effective way.

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

DVD HANDYCAM EDITING

17

Creating an Original DVD

After recorded images have been transferred to a PC,

they can be edited using supplied ImageMixer

software (vers. 1.5 for Sony). You can then create a

new original DVD containing your edited recording.

Duplicating a DVD

Connecting a DVD Handycam camcorder to a PC

allows you to create a new DVD disc even if your PC

has no DVD burner.

High-Speed USB Transmission

DVD Handycam camcorders adopt USB 2.0 as a

connection interface. At maximum transmission rate of

22.16 Mbps*, you can transfer a large amount of data

quickly and smoothly.

*Your PC must also support USB 2.0 (high-speed USB) in order to

transfer at a rate of 22.16 Mbps. Maximum transmission speed will

vary depending on the PC model you are using.

22.16Mbps

DVD Handycam

(When USB 2.0 is used) 22.16Mbps

7~8Mbps

When USB 1.1 is

used

B

B

B

10 20

Transferring Recordings to a PC

There are two ways to use your PC to view and edit DVD Handycam camcorder movies and still images.

After you finalize your DVD-R or DVD-RW disc, you can insert the disc directly into the DVD drive of a PC for editing

and playback.

If your disc is not finalized, you must use the supplied ImageMixer software whether you insert the disc into your PC's

DVD drive or transmit data between a DVD Handycam camcorder and a PC via USB-2 connector.

Once recordings have been transferred to your PC, you can perform creative movie editing and also duplicate your

discs.

18 DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

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FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

Questions about Recording

How long will my DVD Handycam

record?

Up to two hours on a double-sided

DVD disc.

What recording modes can I use?

You can use either LP (long play), SP

(standard play), or HQ (high quality)

recording mode. You can also switch

modes during operation.

Can multi-session recording be

performed -- that is, recording

additional information after a disc

has been finalized?

No.

Questions about Media

What media is recommended?

Sony 3-1/8" (8cm) DVD-R discs

(DMR30, DMR60) or Sony 3-1/8"

DVD-RW (DMW30, DMW60) discs

are recommended.

Can a 3-1/8" DVD-RAM disc be

recorded or played back on a DVD

Handycam camcorder?

No.

Can I use DVD+R or DVD+RW

discs in my DVD Handycam

camcorder?

No. The DVD Handycam system

uses only DVD-R or DVD-RW discs.

Is a cartridge or caddy needed for

DVD Handycam camcorders?

No. Discs are loaded directly into

your camcorder.

Can a 4-3/4" (12cm) adaptor be

used?

Most DVD players and drives will

easily accommodate 8cm (3-1/8")

media. A 12cm adaptor is not

needed.

Questions about Initializing Discs

Is initializing (formatting) required

before I record on a DVD disc?

DVD-R discs do not need to be

initialized. DVD-RW discs must be

initialized. This process is done

inside the camcorder; each time you

load a new DVD-RW disc, you will

see a menu prompt that asks if you

want to initialize your disc.

Can a recorded DVD-R disc be

initialized and used again?

No. DVD-R is a record-once format;

once recorded, the discs cannot be

initialized and re-used.

If a disc is initialized, does free-

memory recording capacity

decrease?

Capacity may decrease a small

amount, but there is very little

reduction in recording time.

Questions about Finalizing Discs

What is finalizing?

Finalizing is the process that allows a

DVD disc to be played back on other

equipment.

Can a PC finalize my disc?

No; it must be finalized by the DVD

Handycam camcorder.

If a finalized disc is copied on a

PC using DVD ImageMixer

software, is the copy also

finalized?

Yes, automatically.

Can discs which have not been

finalized be copied on a PC by

ImageMixer software?

Yes, but movie scenes and still

images are copied one by one. To

copy the entire disc, the disc must be

finalized.

Can a finalized disc be

unfinalized?

A DVD-RW disc recorded by a DVD

Handycam camcorder in DVD-Video

mode can be unfinalized and

recorded again. DVD-RW discs

recorded in DVD-VR (Video

Recording) mode cannot be

unfinalized, although additional data

can be recorded after finalizing. A

DVD-R disc recorded and finalized

cannot be re-recorded.

How long does finalizing take?

That depends on the amount of

recorded data the disc contains. In

general, finalizing a disc will take

between two and ten minutes; discs

with more recorded material take a

shorter time to finalize.

What happens if battery power

runs out during the finalizing

process?

The finalizing process will pause.

When power is restored and your

DVD Handycam is turned on,

finalizing will begin again

automatically from the scene where

pausing took place. It is strongly

recommended that an AC Adaptor be

used when you finalize data.

Questions about Playback

Can my DVD Handycam

camcorder play back commercially

recorded DVD movies or videos?

No. Sony DVD Handycam models

are designed for DVD-R (record

once) and DVD-RW (record and

rewrite) discs. They can't be used to

play back commercial DVD

recordings.

Can Sony DVD Handycam

camcorders play back

commercially recorded 8cm DVD-

RAM discs?

No.

Can a disc recorded on a DVD

Handycam camcorder be played

back on DVD players in any

region?

Yes. Discs recorded on DVD

Handycam camcorders have region-

code “All” -- so they can be played

back on DVD players anywhere in

the world.

Can a DVD disc recorded on a PC

be played back on a DVD

Handycam camcorder?

Yes, if the disc is recorded in DVD-

Video or DVD-VR format and the

sound is recorded in Dolby AC-3.

Will a disc recorded and finalized

on other devices display its

menus if played back on a DVD

Handycam camcorder?

No. Other circumstances may also

affect the display of main menus and

other menus.

Questions about Sound

Is it possible that a disc recorded

on another device will play back

on my DVD Handycam camcorder

with picture but not sound?

Yes; DVD Handycam can only play

back Dolby AC-3 (2-channel) sound.

Sound recorded on DVD disc in other

audio formats (MPEG Layer2, Linear

PCM, etc.) will not be heard.

Can a disc recorded in 5-1 channel

surround sound be played back on

a DVD Handycam camcorder?

Yes, but sound will be heard in 2-

channel stereo.

Q

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DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)

19

Questions about Editing

Can I edit my DVD recordings?

Ye s , in two ways:

1Simple in-camera editing can be

performed in your DVD Handycam

camcorder when you record in

DVD-VR (Video Recording) mode.

In-camera editing lets you cut

scenes you don't want and change

the order of scenes you've

recorded.

2More complex editing can be done

in your PC using supplied Sony

DVD ImageMixer software (vers.

1.5 for Sony).

What is a “scene”?

A scene refers to the portion of your

DVD recording shot in a single take

-- from the moment you start

recording to the moment you stop

recording.

If I delete an unwanted scene after

recording in DVD-VR mode, does

the recording capacity on my disc

increase?

Yes, it does -- but when a short

scene or a still image is deleted, the

capacity may not increase.

Can I use my DVD Handycam

camcorder as a DVD burner?

Yes. Using supplied ImageMixer

software on your PC, you can

connect your DVD Handycam

camcorder to your PC using USB 2.0

and record your movies or still

images to a DVD disc.

Questions about Software

Is any software supplied with my

DVD Handycam camcorder?

Yes -- ImageMixer (vers. 1.5 for

Sony) software is supplied.

What do I need to run my

software?

A PC with Windows ME, Windows

2000 Professional, or Windows XP

Home Edition/Professional.

What does ImageMixer do?

It lets you do lots of things -- and

they're all easy:

-Copy movie scenes or still images

onto another disc.

-Transmit a movie or still image

between a PC and your DVD

Handycam camcorder.

-Edit DVD movies or still images on

your PC.

-Review your recordings on an

unfinalized disc.

Can I use ImageMixer software

that comes with a Hi8, miniDV or

Digital Handycam camcorder?

No: the ImageMixer software

provided with Sony tape-based

camcorders can't copy or edit your

DVD movies.

Can both DVD ImageMixer and

tape-based ImageMixer software

be simultaneously installed on the

same PC?

Yes .

Can I use other software to edit

my DVD movies?

DVD Handycam recordings can be

edited by software that is capable of

taking in and editing MPEG 2 files

(data converted into MPEG form by

ImageMixer software). Even in

MPEG form, however, you may not

be edit data depending on the type

or version of software used.

Can my DVD ImageMixer software

edit movies or images recorded

with Digital Video or MICROMV

camcorders?

No.

Questions about Thumbnail

Images

What is a thumbnail?

A small image shown as one of a

multiple set of images on a

camcorder or PC screen.

What do thumbnails show?

When you view them on your DVD

Handycam camcorder screen before

finalizing your disc, they show the

first image of a movie scene or a still

image. After you finalize a disc,

thumbnail images also display date

and time of recording.

How are thumbnails created?

Each time you start recording, the

first image at the beginning of your

scene automatically becomes a

thumbnail.

Are visual index screens different

in DVD-Video and DVD-VR (Video

Recording) modes?

Yes; in addition to thumbnails of

movie scenes and still images, the

visual index screen for DVD-RW

discs can also show playlists of

scenes or still images in an order you

determine.

Questions about PC Transfer

Can images be transferred from a

DVD Handycam camcorder to a PC

whether or not a disc has been

finalized?

Yes, via USB using ImageMixer

(vers. 1.5 for Sony) software.

Can a disc also be copied by USB

1.1 (full-speed USB)?

Although the disc can be copied, it

takes more time than by using USB

2.0 (high-speed USB).

Is it possible to transfer the

contents of a disc recorded in

DVD-VR (Video Recording) mode

to a PC, then copy this material to

a DVD-R disc in DVD-Video mode

for playback on other devices?

Yes. However, you need to save your

recorded data in DVD-VR model onto

your PC hard drive -- then convert it

into DVD-Video mode to record it on

a new DVD.

Questions about Still Images

Can I record still images on a DVD

Handycam camcorder?

Yes -- thousands of images on a

single DVD disc.

Before finalizing a disc, can still

images be viewed?

Still images can be viewed on your

DVD Handycam screen before you

finalize your disc. Using ImageMixer

software and USB connector, you

can also transfer still images to your

PC before your disc is finalized. If

you want to view images on a TV

screen using a DVD Player, you must

finalize data by selecting “Create” on

the slide show display when you

finalize your disc.

Can I change the display time of a

still-image slide show?

No. Once setup time is fixed, it

cannot be changed.

Can still images be rotated?

No.

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20 DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

20

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY

❏Bit Rate

The amount (measured in “bits”) of data that flows in a

specified period of time. For video recording and playback,

which requires a large amount of data, bit rate is expressed in

Mbps (“megabits per second”). In general, a higher bit rate

results in higher-quality picture and sound. Bit rate can also

be constant or variable.

❏Coding

In a digital video or audio signal, coding (or encoding) refers

to the process of converting data from one form to another

-- for example, into a compressed form so more data can be

recorded and stored on a DVD disc. During playback, the

compressed data is decoded to its original form.

❏Constant Bit Rate

Constant Bit Rate (CBR) means that all scenes are converted

at the same rate; its purpose is to simplify the coding and

decoding process.

❏Dolby AC-3

The audio system used in DVD Handycam recordings. In the

Dolby AC-3 system, audio can be recorded in 2-channel

stereo, monophonic, or 5.1 channel surround sound (using

six speakers for front left/right, center, rear left/right, and

subwoofer). Audio compression only takes place in the

frequency range beyond human hearing.

❏DVD Applications

DVD is a multipurpose medium used for storing moving and

still images, audio and data. Its official name is “Digital

Versatile Disc.” There are various applications for DVD discs,

including high-capacity storage of computer software and

data. DVD video applications include DVD-Video, used for

high-quality commercial recordings, and DVD-VR (Video

Recording), used for personal video recordings that can be

re-written (recorded more than once) and edited.

❏DVD Capacity

CD-sized DVD discs (4-3/4" or 12cm in diameter) can have

one or two sides, and each side can contain one or two

recordable layers. For a single-sided disc, dual-layer

recording allows for up to 8.5 GB of data. For a double-sided

disc, single-layer recording holds up to 9.4 GB. A double-

sided disc with two recording layers can hold up to 17 GB of

data. DVD Handycam camcorder use smaller 3-1/8" (8cm)

discs. A double-sided DVD Handycam disc has one recording

layer per side and holds up to 2.8 GB of data; it allows up to 2

hours of recording.

❏DVD Formats

DVD discs for video recording exist in various formats or

standards. DVD-ROM is a playback-only format used for

commercial movies. DVD-R is a format that can be recorded

only once. DVD-RW can be recorded, edited and re-written

(re-recorded). DVD-RAM, DVD+R and DVD+RW are alternate

recordable formats not compatible with Sony DVD Handycam

camcorders, which use only discs that conform to DVD-R and

DVD-RW standards.

❏DVD-Video

The application for DVD recordings that do not require editing.

DVD-Video allows up to 2 hours of high quality moving

images and sound on a single disc, using MPEG 2 coding for

movies and Dolby AC-3 (Dolby Digital 2-Channel) or linear

PCM recording for sound. DVD-Video is an optical disc format

that also allows for special playback features such as multiple

screen ratios, captions, language options, and simultaneous

multi-angle viewing of a scene.

❏DVD-VR

The application for which Sony DVD Handycam camcorders

are designed. DVD-VR (or DVD Video Recording) provides

added in-camera capabilities such as re-recording, editing,

playlist display, etc.

❏Finalizing

Finalizing a disc enables its recorded contents to be played

back on other equipment. Once finalized, DVD-R and DVD-

RW discs are read as though they were commercial recorded

DVD movies -- allowing them to be played back on most DVD

players. A finalized disc can no longer be re-recorded, but

DVD-RW discs can be “unfinalized” to return them to

recordable state.

❏Groove/Land

On a DVD disc, “groove” describes the spiral field where data

is written to a recordable layer; “land” describes areas where

data is not written. In the case of DVD-ROM, reading is

carried out by an optical pickup following “pits” in the surface

of the disc. In the case of DVD-R and DVD-RW, reading is

carried out by an optical pickup following grooves in the

surface of the disc.

❏Initializing

Initializing a disc allows the disc to be recorded or written on.

Initializing a previously recorded disc will erase all existing

data on the disc. DVD-R discs to not need to be initialized.

DVD-RW discs must be initialized. The DVD Handycam

camcorder system provides an “initializing” prompt each time

a new DVD-RW disc is inserted.

DVD Handycam TECHNOLOGY HANDBOOK

GLOSSARY

21

❏Laser

The DVD Handycam recording system uses a short-

wavelength red semiconductor laser device to record data.

This device passes current to a semiconductor and emits a

strong beam of light. Gallium arsenic is used to generate the

short-wavelength red laser beam that reads digital data on a

DVD disc.

❏Linear PCM Recording

Linear PCM (Pulse Code Modulation) is an audio system that

converts analog to digital signals without compression; it is

used primarily in high fidelity music recording. DVD

Handycam camcorders do not use Linear PCM recording.

❏MPEG

MPEG (Moving Pictures Experts Group) is an international

group that establishes industry-wide standards for digital

signal compression. These standards are known as MPEG 1,

MPEG 2, MPEG 4, etc.

❏MPEG 2

MPEG 2 is a digital standard for demanding video

applications. It offers high quality images with data

compression that reduces the amount of data that must be

processed. Rather than processing complete video frames,

the MPEG 2 system processes only the differences between

adjacent frames.

❏MP@ML

The MPEG 2 standard allows various parameter setups for

picture formats and coding modes. MP@ML (Main Profile at

Main Level) is the parameter setup adopted for DVD-Video

and DVD-VR (Video Recording) applications. “Profile” refers

to the combination of functions provided; “Level” refers to the

level of resolution and frame rate.

❏Numerical Aperture

Numerical Aperture (NA) value determines the performance

of an object lens; the larger the value, the more data can be

written at any one time.

❏Optical Pickup

This device combines a short wavelength semiconductor red

laser, a pair of 45-degree mirrors, an object lens and a

photodiode. In the DVD Handycam system, light emitted from

the laser is bent at a 45-degree angle, passes through the

object lens, reflects off the surface of the DVD disc, is

concentrated by the object lens and detected by the

photodiode.

❏Object Lens

This lens performs two tasks: first, focusing the laser onto the

disc surface; second, collecting the reflected laser light and

concentrating it on the photodiode detector. The performance

of the object lens largely depends on the value of its

numerical aperture (NA).

❏Pit

Pits describe the microscopic hollows within the surface of a

DVD-ROM or CD-ROM disc. Data is read in a spiral motion

and is determined by the length and number of pits that

occur. The discs used by DVD Handycam camcorders do not

have pits; instead, their data is carried by changes in

reflection on the disc's surface.

❏Playlist

The function that arranges movie scenes and still images on

a DVD disc. Playlists can be set up for editing and playback

purposes; recorded scenes and still images are not changed

by being put in playlist order.

❏Track

A data-recording field in the shape of a spiral or concentric

circle. CD and DVD tracks have a spiral structure; floppy disc

and hard disc tracks are concentric. The distance between

adjacent tracks is called “track pitch.”

❏Variable Bit Rate

Variable Bit Rate (VBR) changes its data conversion process

depending on the amount of movement (or “dynamics”) in a

given scene; its purpose is to reduce data requirements to a

minimum while maintaining high image quality.

❏Visual Index

A DVD Handycam function that displays movie scenes and

still images as “thumbnail” images on a multi-image screen,

making it easy to find a specific scene or image for playback.

• Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.

“Dolby” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

• Microsoft and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the

United States and / or other countries.

• PlayStation is registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

• All other product names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their

respective companies. Furthermore, “™” and “®” are not mentioned in each case in this manual.

© 2003 Sony Corporation