Sony Digital Video Camera Recorder DCR-TRV900 Operating Instructions

							91
Memory card slot operations
Memory card slot operations
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction
Image
Record the still image on floppy disk
with the floppy disk adapter. Play
back the picture with your PC.This camcorder is equipped with a memory card slot that conforms to ATA specification of
PC Card standard.
You can record still images to floppy disks using the supplied floppy disk adapter, Memory
Sticks (not supplied) or PC cards (not supplied). You can exchange image data with other
equipment such as personal computers etc., using floppy disks, Memory Sticks or PC cards.
CAUTION!
Do not carry around this camcorder with the floppy disk adapter connected.
Instruction of functionsThe illustrations used in this chapter for the instruction are that of the floppy disk adapter
unless specified otherwise.
Sony recommends Memory SticksSony recommends using the MSAKIT-PC4A Memory Stick/PC card kit (not supplied). The
Memory Stick is a brand new type of recording medium that records images and sounds as
digital data and operates just like a PC card. For detailed instructions, refer to the operating
instruction supplied with Memory Stick/PC card kit.
The types of PC cards you can useUse TYPE II PC cards that conform to ATA specification of PC card standard. Format the PC
card with this camcorder before use. Once you format the PC card, you can store data of up
to 64 MB in it.
Compatible PC cards
HITACHI
HB286008A3, HB286015A3, HB286030A3, HB286045A3, HB286060A3
Be sure to refer to the instruction manual supplied with the PC card.
Notes on the supplied floppy disk adapterThe floppy disk adapter is designed for use only with this camcorder. The adapter is not
warranted to function properly if used with other equipment.
Memory Stick PC card adaptor 
						

							92
Floppy disks you can use with this unit
¥ Size : 3.5 inch
¥ Type : 2HD
¥ Capacity : 1.44 MB
¥ Format : MS-DOS format (512 bytes x 18 sector)
When using a 3.5 inch, 2HD floppy disk other than that described above, format it using the
camcorder.
On file format (JPEG)
This unit compresses image data in JPEG format (extension .jpg) and simultaneously records
thumbnail data (extension .411) for the index screen. The index screen data is varies only on
this unit.
Data file names of image
MVC00001.jpg: if saved on a PC card
MVC-0001.jpg: if saved on a floppy disk
Be sure to place the adapter on a stable surface
Placing the floppy disk adapter on an unstable or slanting surface or holding the adapter by
hand during operation may result not only in malfunction of the unit but also in injury.
Do not shake or jar the adapter
Malfunctions, inability to record images or inability to use floppy disks may occur. There
may be also image and memory data breakdown, damage or loss.
Do not get the adapter wet
The floppy disk adapter does not function when it is wet. Be careful not to get the adapter
wet. When moving the adapter from one atmospheric condition to another, moisture
condensation may occur inside or outside the unit. If this occurs, follow the instructions on
page 123 and remove any condensation before use.
Notes on the floppy diskTo protect data recorded on the floppy disks, note the following:
¥ Avoid storing floppy disks near magnets or magnetic fields such as those of speakers and
televisions, permanent erasure of disk data may result.
¥ Avoid storing floppy disks in areas subject to direct sunlight or sources of high
temperature, such as heating devices. Floppy disk warping or damage may result, making
the disk useless.
¥ Avoid contact with the disk surface by opening the disk shutter plate. If the disk surface
becomes blemished, data may be unreadable.
¥ Keep liquids away from the floppy disk.
¥ Be sure to use a floppy disk case to protect important data.
¥ Use only a 2HD type disk head cleaner when cleaning the disk drive.
¥ Even when you use a 3.5 inch 2HD floppy disk, image data may not be recorded and/or
displayed depending on the using environment. In this case, use another brand of disk.
About the power sourceWhen you use the memory card slot, getting the power from a wall outlet is recommended,
using the AC power adaptor.
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction 
						

							93
Memory card slot operations
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction
About the remaining battery indicator
This camcorder displays remaining recording/playback time on the LCD screen or in the
viewfinder. This function may not work properly in certain operating conditions. Especially
when using the memory card slot, the correct remaining time may not be indicated due to
increased power consumption. This is not a malfunction.
Power supply
When using a video light (not supplied) or similar equipment connected to the intelligent
accessory shoe of the camcorder, recording an image to a floppy disk or PC card may result
in a temporary power shortage in the accessory shoe, causing the video light to go out. This
does not affect other functions.
When using a battery case
When using a battery case (not supplied) such as the EBP-L7, you cannot perform operations
that require the floppy disk adapter. The screen displays ÒFOR ÒInfoLITHIUMÓ BATTERY
ONLY.Ó
Note on playback compatibilityThis camcorder is not guaranteed to properly play back images shot with other equipment.
The images shot with this camcorder are not guaranteed to be played back properly with
other equipment.
CAUTION
Do not insert your finger or an object into the memory card slot.
Connecting the floppy disk adapter or PC card
With the upper side of the connector facing the LCD panel, insert the connector until it
clicks.
To eject the floppy disk adapter or PC cardSlide the MEMORY RELEASE lever in the direction of the arrow as illustrated below.
When the access lamp is flashing
Never shake or strike the unit. Do not turn the power off , eject a PC card/floppy disk
adapter or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, the image data breakdown may occur.Access lamp
Access lamp
MEMORY RELEASE 
						

							94
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction
Inserting a floppy disk
Insert a floppy disk until it clicks.
Before inserting, check that the write protect tab is set to the recordable position for
recording a still picture.
To eject the floppy diskPress the floppy disk eject button.
About the PC card and memory slot connector of the floppy disk adapter
To protect the recorded data, follow the instructions below.
¥ Do not repair, make alterations, or dismantle them.
¥ Avoid using them in direct sunlight, in extreme heat or cold, in damp or dusty locations.
¥ Do not spill liquid on them.
¥ Do not fold or strike them.
When the PC card does not come out
Remove the battery before ejecting the PC card.
The front edge of the memory slot connector
Do not touch the front edge of the memory slot connector with your hand.
Note
Unless you press any memory operating buttons after inserting another floppy disk, the 
indicator may not disappear from the screen.Floppy disk eject button
Front edge of the memory slot connector 
						

							95
Memory card slot operations
Selecting the image quality mode
You can select one of three image quality modes in still picture recording. If you do not
make any selection, the unit automatically records in SUPER FINE mode.
(1)Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the lock knob is set to the right
(unlock) position.
(2)Press MENU to display the menu.
(3)Turn the control dial to select 
, then press the dial.
(4)Turn the control dial to select QUALITY, then press the dial.
(5)Turn the control dial to select desired image quality, then press the dial.
(6)Press MENU to erase the menu display.
Setting image quality
Setting Meaning
SUPER FINE (SFN) This is the highest image quality in this camcorder. The number of still
images you can record is less than FINE. The image is compressed to
about 1/4.
FINE (FIN) Use this mode when you want to record high quality images. The
image is compressed to about 1/6.
STANDARD (STD) This is the standard image quality. The image is compressed to about
1/10.
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QUALITY SUPER FINE
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T
[MENU ] : END
1
2,63
POWER
OFFCAMERA
MEMORY
VTR
MENU
4
5
1
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QUA L I T Y S T ANDARD
PROT ECT F I NE
S L I DE SHOW SUPER F I NE
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END 
						

							96
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction
The difference in image quality mode
A recorded image is compressed in JPEG format before stored into memory. The memory
capacity allotted to each image varies depending on the selected quality mode. Details are
shown in the table below. (The number of pixel is 640 x 480, regardless of image quality
mode. Data volume before compression is about 600 KB.)
Image quality mode Memory capacity
SUPER FINE About 150 KB
FINE About 100 KB
STANDARD About 60 KB
Approximate numbers of images you can record on a floppy disk
The number of images you can record is different depending on which image quality mode
you select and the complexity of the subject.
SUPER FINE (SFN) about 7 to 8 images
FINE (FIN) about 14 to 16 images
STANDARD (STD) about 23 to 27 images
Note
In some cases, changing image quality mode may not affect the image quality, depending on
the types of images you are shooting.
Formatting (initializing) a PC card or a floppy disk
(1)When you format a floppy disk, insert a disk into the floppy disk adapter. When
you format a PC card, insert the card into the memory card slot.
(2)Set the POWER switch to MEMORY. Make sure that the lock knob is set to the right
(unlock) position.
(3)Press MENU to display the menu.
(4)Turn the control dial to select 
, then press the dial.
(5)Turn the control dial to select FORMAT, then press the dial.
(6)Turn the control dial again to select OK, then press the dial. The display shows
ÒEXECUTE.Ó
(7)Press the control dial again. The display shows ÒFORMATTING,Ó and formatting
procedure begins. When formatting is finished, the display shows ÒCOMPLETE.Ó 
						

							97
Memory card slot operations
2
3
POWER
OFFCAMERA
MEMORY
VTR
MENU
2
1
4
5
7 6
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOUS O F F
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T READY
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T RE TURN
RE T URNOK
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMAT EXECUTE
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T FORMA T T I NG
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END
MEMOR Y S E T
CON T I NUOU S
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
SL I DE SHOW
DE L E T E A L L
FORMA T COMP L E T E
RE TURN
[MENU ] : END
Notes on formatting
¥ Formatting erases all information on the floppy disk or PC card, including the protected
image data. Check the contents of the disk or card before formatting.
¥ Be sure that the battery is fully charged when formatting a floppy disk or PC card.
Formatting takes about three minutes maximum.
¥ Do not turn the POWER switch or press any button while the display shows
ÒFORMATTING.Ó
Using the memory card slot Ð introduction 
						

							98
Recording an image from a mini DV tape as a
still image
This camcorder can read moving picture data recorded on a mini DV tape and record it as a
still image on a floppy disk or a PC card. The unit can also take in moving picture data
through the input connector and record it as a still image on a floppy disk or a PC card.
Before operation
¥ Insert a recorded mini DV tape.
¥ Connect the floppy disk adapter (with a disk inside) or a PC card into the unit.
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.
(2)Press á. The picture recorded on the mini DV tape is played back.
(3)Keep pressing PHOTO lightly until a picture from the mini DV tape freezes.
ÒCAPTUREÓ appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder. Recording does not
start yet.
(4)Press PHOTO deeper. The image displayed on the screen will be recorded on a
floppy disk or a PC card. The recording is complete when the bar scroll indicator
disappears.
When the access lamp is flashing
Never shake or strike the unit. As well do not turn the power off , eject a PC card/floppy
disk adapter or remove the battery pack. Otherwise, the image data breakdown may occur.
If ÒMEMORY FULLÓ appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder
The memory of the PC card or floppy disk is full.
If ÒCHECK MEMORYÓ appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder
An incompatible PC card or floppy disk is inserted. Be sure to use proper card or disk.
1
POWER
OFFCAMERA
MEMORY
VTR
2PLAY REW FF
3
PHOTO
4
PHOTO
CAP TURE 
						

							99
Memory card slot operations
Recording a still image from a mini DV tape right after turning on the power
Saving the data may take a little more time than usual. This is not a malfunction.
Sound recorded on a mini DV tape
You cannot record the audio from a mini DV tape.
About titles recorded on the mini DV tape
You cannot record titles. The title is not displayed during recording.
Recording a still image from other equipment
When recording the image through the  DV IN/OUT jack
When recording the image through the AUDIO/VIDEO jack
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR and set DISPLAY to LCD in the menu system.
(2)Play back the recorded tape, or turn the TV on to see the desired program.
(3)Follow the steps 3 and 4 on page 98.
Recording an image from a mini DV tape as a still image
S VIDEO
VIDEO OUT
i.LINK cable
(DV connecting cable)
(not supplied)
S video connecting cable
(not supplied)
A/V connecting cable 
						

							100
Copying still images from a mini DV tape
 Ð photo save
Using the search function, you can automatically take in only the still images from mini DV
tapes and record them on a floppy disk or a PC card in sequence.
Before operation
¥ Insert a recorded mini DV tape and rewind the tape.
¥ Connect the floppy disk adapter (with a disk inside) or insert a PC card to the unit.
(1)Set the POWER switch to VTR.
(2)Press MENU to display the menu.
(3)Turn the control dial to select 
, then press the dial.
(4)Turn the control dial to select PHOTO SAVE, then press the dial. ÒPHOTO
BUTTONÓ appears on the LCD screen or in the viewfinder.
(5)Press PHOTO deeper. The still image from the mini DV tape is recorded on a
floppy disk or PC card. The number of still images copied is displayed. ÒENDÓ is
displayed when copying is completed.
To cancel copyingPress MENU to stop copying.
When the memory of the floppy disk or PC card is fullÒMEMORY FULLÓ appears on the screen, and the copying stops. Insert another floppy disk
or PC card and repeat the procedure from step 1.
MEMOR Y S E T
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
PHOTO SAVE READY
RE T URN
[MENU ] : END
1
2
POWER
OFFCAMERA
MEMORY
VTR
MENU
35
4
PHOTO
MEMOR Y S E T
QU A L I T Y
PROT ECT
PHOTO SAVE
[MENU ] : END
PHOTO SAVE 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0
4/15
SFN
[ PHOTO ] : S TRA T [ MENU ] : END
PHOTO
PHOTO SAVE 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0
4/15
SFN
[MENU ] : END
SAV I NG
PHOTO SAVE 0 : 0 0 : 0 0 : 0 0
8/15
SFN
[MENU ] : END
END
BUT TON4 0