Precautions

Internal memory and memory card back up

Do not turn off the camera, remove the battery pack, or remove the memory card while the access lamp is lit. Otherwise, the internal memory data or the memory card may be damaged. Be sure to make a backup copy to protect your data.

On database files

When you insert a memory card without a database file into the camera and turn on the power, part of the memory card capacity is used to automatically create a database file. It may take some time until you can perform the next operation.

Do not use/store the camera in the following places

  • In an extremely hot, cold or humid place
    In places such as in a car parked in the sun, the camera body may become deformed and this may cause a malfunction.

  • Storing under direct sunlight or near a heater
    The camera body may become discolored or deformed, and this may cause a malfunction.

  • In a location subject to rocking vibration

  • Near strong magnetic place

  • In sandy or dusty places
    Be careful not to let sand or dust get into the camera. This may cause the camera to malfunction, and in some cases this malfunction cannot be repaired.

On carrying

Do not sit down in a chair or other place with the camera in the back pocket of your trousers or skirt, as this may cause malfunction or damage the camera.

On operating temperatures

Your camera is designed for use under the temperatures between 0°C and 40°C (32°F to 104°F). Shooting in extremely cold or hot places that exceed this range is not recommended.

On moisture condensation

  • If the camera is brought directly from a cold to a warm location, moisture may condense inside or outside the camera. This moisture condensation may cause a malfunction of the camera.

  • If moisture condensation occurs, turn off the camera and wait about an hour for the moisture to evaporate. Note that if you attempt to shoot with moisture remaining inside the lens, you will be unable to record clear images.

Functions built into this camera

  • While aboard an airplane, set [Airplane Mode] to [On].

  • Do not watch 3D images shot with this camera for extended periods of time on 3D-compatible monitors.

  • When you view 3D images shot with this camera on 3D-compatible monitors, you may experience discomfort in the form of eye strain, fatigue, or nausea. To prevent these symptoms, we recommend that you take regular breaks.
    However, you need to determine for yourself the length and frequency of breaks you require, as they vary according to the individual. If you experience any type of discomfort, stop viewing the 3D images until you feel better, and consult a physician as necessary. Also refer to the operating instructions supplied with the device or software you have connected or are using with this camera. Note that a child’s eyesight is still at the development stage (particularly children below the age of 6). Consult a pediatrician or ophthalmologist before letting your child view 3D images, and make sure he/she observes the above precautions when viewing such images.

On image data compatibility

  • The camera conforms with DCF (Design rule for Camera File system) universal standard established by JEITA (Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association).

  • Sony does not guarantee that the camera will play back images recorded or edited with other equipment, or that other equipment will play back images recorded with the camera.

Notes when playing movies on other devices

  • This camera uses MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 High Profile for AVCHD format recording. Movies recorded in AVCHD format with this camera cannot be played by the following devices.

  • Other devices compatible with AVCHD format that does not support High Profile

  • Devices incompatible with the AVCHD format

This camera also uses MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 Main Profile for MP4 format recording. For this reason, movies recorded in MP4 format with this camera cannot be played on devices other than those that support MPEG-4 AVC/H.264.
  • You can play a high-definition image quality (HD) disc only on AVCHD format playback devices. A DVD player or DVD recorder cannot play back a disc recorded in high-definition image quality (HD) because they are not compatible with the AVCHD format. In addition, if you insert a high-definition image quality (HD) disc recorded in AVCHD format into a DVD player or DVD recorder, you may not be able to eject the disc.

Notes on the screen and lens

  • The screen is manufactured using extremely high-precision technology so over 99.99% of the pixels are operational for effective use. However, some tiny black and/or bright dots (white, red, blue or green) may appear on the screen. These dots are a normal result of the manufacturing process and do not affect the recording.

  • Exposing the screen or the lens to direct sunlight for long periods may cause malfunctions. Be careful when placing the camera near a window or outdoors.

  • Do not press against the screen. The screen may be discolored and that may cause a malfunction.

  • Images may trail across on the screen in a cold location. This is not a malfunction.

  • Be careful not to bump the lens, and be careful not to apply force to it.