Sony HDV VTR FAQ's Section

 Did you know...
Any plans to launch a HDV VTR for consumer?
No, the Sony HDV VTR will only be for professional customers.

Will the DSR-11, -25 and –45P DVCAM VTRs be discontinued?
No, we have no plans to discontinue these products.

Can the HDV VTR use a standard size DV cassette?
No, it has a very compact design and is optimised as uploading/downloading machine for an NLE.

Will the HDV VTR have backward compatibility with the DV/DVCAM format?
Yes, it will be able to playback or record using the DV/DVCAM format.

Is it compatible with both 50hz and 60hz?
Yes.

Does it support battery operation for field applications?
Yes. It can operate using NP-F Series batteries – which are the same as are used in the HVR-Z1U camcorder.

Is it possible to perform digital dubbing between two HDV VTRs using a single i.Link cable?
Yes. All HDV, DV and DVCAM signals can be handled using a single i.LINK cable.

What is MPEG?
I'm often asked what MPEG is, as it's an often used term in our industry. MPEG is an acronym which stands for Motion Picture Experts Group. However, the term applies to a form of video compression, and was simply named after the group that invented the format. MPEG is clever technology that allows video to be compressed to much smaller file sizes than the original, uncompressed video. There are different variations of MPEG compression - MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 for example. MPEG-2 is the format that all DVD's use. The audio format MP3 is also a derivative of the MPEG compression format.
--Andrew Lock

Q: Hi Andrew, I own a Sony DSR-PD150 and I have developed some problems with it. Lately, during playback, I am experiencing periodic audio drop out and some pixelization on the left side of the screen (both the camera monitor and editing screen). I also notice at times, a grinding noise and vibration that happens for a few seconds during filming. Remarkably, I don't have any visual or audio drop outs during the grinding noise.

I consulted the manual and the trouble shooting guide and it suggests that the heads might be dirty. I bought a mini dv head cleaner, but it really doesn't work that well. No, its not the recommended Sony head cleaner.

Can you give me any ideas on how to fix this problem?

A: Hi Chuck, camcorder repair is highly specialized, so I don't suggest that you attempt this yourself. It sounds like your camcorder is due for a service. Depending on the level of use, my recommendation is that everyone have their unit serviced annually by an authorized service center. It's important to use a reputable, authorized service center because they are they will guarantee the work.
--Andrew Lock

Q: Hi Andrew, I currently have 2 mini-dv SD cameras. I use the smaller one as a deck. I'd like to buy a real deck that can read and record both SD and HD tapes, so that it will work with an HD camera that I will buy in the future. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks, Linda

A: Hi Linda, Sony offer a couple of decks that would fit the bill nicely. The cheapest is the M15U which is selling for around $2200. You might be able to find an M10U which has been discontinued, but there are still quite a few of them around.
--Andrew Lock