Sony Mini DV camcorders capture and playback video and audio on Mini DV cassettes, a step up from the standard 8mm tapes. Most can also take and store still photos if equipped with a memory stick, and can connect to a computer to transfer the video and pictures. Sony products are designed for a long shelf life under proper conditions, but when problems arise, go back and check the little things before assuming your camera needs to be shipped off for repair.
Power Issues
Always check the battery first if the camera will not power up; make sure it has a charge and is connected securely. Remove the battery and connect it to the charger to see if the indicator light shows it as charged. Plug the camera into the AC adapter to see if it powers up that way. Turn it off and then back on again. If it turns on, check the display to see the remaining battery life and monitor how long it lasts; the battery may not hold a charge as long as it gets older. If it's on and in Camera mode, but not in use for 5 minutes, it will go into standby mode; turn it off and back on again.
Recording Issues
If the camcorder is on and in Camera mode but won't record, eject the Mini DV cassette and see that it's not at the end of the tape and the safety switch is in the correct position (not showing red). You should see an icon of a cassette flashing in the LCD display if either is the problem. Re-insert the tape and try again. If the camera won't record still photos, see that you have the memory stick installed, and in the menu, set Photo Rec to the Memory setting. To have it record images from a tape, set it back to Tape.
Playback Issues
If nothing happens when you press Play, double check to see that the camcorder is on and in VCR mode, and that a fresh battery is connected or the camera is plugged into the AC adapter. Rewind the tape if necessary. Eject the tape to to see that the tape itself hasn't gotten wound up in the tape heads; re-insert and press Play again. If the video is fuzzy on playback or has lines running through the image, run the tape back a bit, or stop the playback and try again. The heads may also need cleaning--an icon will flash in the display if so; use a head-cleaning cassette. Check the volume control near the display if no sound is heard or the sound is very low.
Secondary Issues
Other glitches or problems can occur during normal use that can affect performance. Double-check the settings for auto-focus, lighting, Steadyshot and Nightshot to see that they are set the way you want them. Don't put the camera in an environment that is too hot or too cold for long periods of time, and keep it away from excessive moisture. Transfer still photos to a computer to enable you to keep space open on your memory stick for new photos. Turn the write-protect tab from the Lock setting if it won't let you delete photos. Consult the owner's manual for further operating instructions, tips and reasons for warning indicators, and visit Sony's website for updated information and technical support.
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