Text preview for : D8MM02_Digital Camcorder.pdf part of SONY DCR-TRV120 Training Manual for D8MM02 DIGITAL CAMCORDER Circuit Description and Troubleshooting



Back to : D8MM02_Digital Camcorder. | Home

S

®

Training Manual

D8 Digital Camcorder
Models: DCR-TRV120 DCR-TRV320 DCR-TRV520 DCR-TRV525 DCR-TRV720 DCR-TRV820

Circuit Description and Troubleshooting Course: D8MM-02

Sony Service Company A Division of Sony Electronics Inc ©1999 All Rights Reserved Printed in U.S.A.

S is a trademark of Sony Electronics

Circuit Description and Troubleshooting:
Models:
DCR-TRV120 DCR-TRV320 DCR-TRV520 DCR-TRV525 DCR-TRV720 DCR-TRV820

Prepared by: National Training Department Sony Service Company A Division of Sony Electronics Inc. Course presented by _____________________________________ Date ___________________________________________________ Student Name ___________________________________________

Table of Contents
Introduction Features
Standard Features What's New Model Differences

1 2
2 2 3

Digital Mode Tape Path Alignment

16

Video Path
Camera Record Line In Record A/V DV Out "Media Converter" i.LINK Record D8 Playback A8 Playback

17
17 17 17 19 19 19

Tools Needed for D8 Servicing
Extender Cables and Jigs Soldering Equipment Alignment Tapes

3
4 4 4

Video Path Troubleshooting Still Picture and Printer Block
Still Picture Process Printer Print Control Sequence LED Indications

21 25
25 27 28 30

Boards Description and Location Flexible Boards Location Digital 8 Format Review
Tape Speed Sub Track Information Tape Wrap Angle

5 6 7
8 9 10

Audio Path Block
Camera Record Line In Record "Media Converter" i.LINK Record D8 Playback A8 Playback

31
31 31 31 31 31 31

RF Problem Symptoms
Entrance Guide Misadjusted Clockwise Entrance Misadjusted Counter-clockwise Exit Misadjusted Clockwise Exit Misadjusted Counter-clockwise Bad or Clogged Head

11
11 12 12 12 13

Tape Path Alignment

15

Human Interface Control Structure

33

Reset Key Inputs Remote Input Battery Control Lanc/Digital I/O Display Window OSD I/O Sync Bus

33 33 33 33 35 37 37

Troubleshooting

45

Getting Radar W
System Requirements Downloading Instructions: Installation Instructions Uninstalling the program Hardward Setup (Interface Unit)

47
47 47 47 48 48

D8Mechanism Control Structure
DRP Bus VSP Bus 8-bit Parallel Bus L Bus Servo

39
39 39 39 39 39

Radar W
Using Radar W Upload/Download

49
49 50

APPENDIX
Service Bulletin 542 Service Bulletin 546 i ii

Camera/Analog Mechanism Control
Camera Bus CH Bus VC Bus Servo Control

41
41 41 41 41

Servo Control
Analog Mode D8 Mode Mech Initialization Detemining Recording Type

43
43 43 45 45

1

Introduction
Overview
This course features the 2000 model year D8 camcorders, using the DCRTRV320 as the example. The DCR-TRV820 will be used as the example when discussing the built-in printer section. All circuits contained in the DCR-TRV320 are used in all models except the DCR-TRV120. The DCRTRV120 does not have the Digital Still Camera with Memory Stick feature. This year's models will continue to use the FRU repair system for the main (VC) board even though there are no TGA components on it. The same procedure used in the past will continue to be used for the FRU process. Therefore, most of the troubleshooting discussed during this course will be geared towards determining if the problem is occurring on the VC board or elsewhere. The course will identify test points and connectors that are accessible when troubleshooting.

Course Objectives
· · · · · · Learn the features of the 2000 model year D8 camcorders, as well as the tools needed for repair. Review the D8 format and some of the tape path symptoms seen in last year's models Show the Video paths and other electrical circuits to the block level so that when troubleshooting you can determine if the problem is occurring on the VC board or not. Show the Memory Stick operation from a block level. Discuss Printer operation in the DCR-TRV820. Learn how to download and install the RadarW software from http:// service.sel.sony.com.

Features
Overview
The following section discusses some of the features of the 2000 Digital 8 camcorder lineup. Listed below are the 2000 Digital 8 models:
DCR-TRV120 DCR-TRV320 DCR-TRV520 DCR-TRV525 DCR-TRV720 DCR-TRV820

Standard Features
The following are a list of standard features for the 2000 Digital 8 models. Digital Recording/Playback - The Digital 8 format uses technology that was developed for DV bit stream recording and playback. DV is the name of the standard that uses 6mm wide tape to record and play back digital images. Analog Playback - Digital 8 camcorders will play back your old 8mm recordings. This includes SP and LP recordings in Hi8 or standard 8mm. These cameras do not record in analog. Cassette Compatibility - The Digital 8 system uses Hi8 tapes. These tapes are the same as Hi8/D8 tapes. Standard 8mm tapes should not be used as they may cause compatibility issues between D8 camcorders because of the type of metal particulate material they use. Note: All compatibility issues related to making digital recordings using standard 8mm tapes are not to be recognized as servicing issues. InfoLithium Battery - The InfoLithium Battery is a smart lithium-ion battery pack that can exchange data with the camcorder about battery life remaining and charge time remaining. This results in increased battery life. Intelligent Shoe ­ Allows Sony's intelligent accessories to be used with these camcorders. Digital Stereo ­ Sound can be recorded in 12-bit or 16-bit digital PCM Stereo. 12 bit is lower quality, but allows for future dubbing.

PhotoMode - Allows you to capture a still image for seven seconds while the audio continues recording, allowing you to provide narration for the still image. SteadyShot ­ Stabilizes the image being recorded by reducing shaking. SteadyShot utilizes motion sensors located in the lens assembly area that are designed to sense camcorder motion i.LINK ­ Digital interface that allows you to edit, dub, archive or playback between two digital components with virtually no generation loss. These digital components include camcorders, computers, DTV set top boxes and more. Data Code ­ Stores the time and date of the recording on the tape. The user can access this information at any time. 16:9 Wide Mode ­ Allows you to record and playback in "wide screen" mode. During record, the camcorder takes advantage of the oversized imager used for SteadyShot to produce the wider image. You should note that SteadyShot does not function in 16:9 Wide Mode.

What's New
Each model contains the following new features unless otherwise noted: Analog In to i.LINK Out - All Y2K Digital 8 models feature analog audio/ video inputs that enable the camcorder to function as a "media converter". When this function is selected in the menu, you can connect a Digital 8 camcorder to an analog source (such as a VHS or VHS-C camcorder) and a PC via an i.LINK cable. This allows users to digitize their tape libraries and store the digital version on their hard drive. Digitizing analog tapes prevents old home movies from deteriorating further. Super LaserLink - Provides wireless A/V connectivity up to 26 feet with an optional IR Receiver. Super LaserLink provides higher quality audio and video, a wider transmission angle, and longer transmission distance. Longer Zoom Range ­ All models have 25X-optical/450X-digital zoom.

2

3
Super NightShot Infrared System ­ Uses an automatic slow-shutter control to deliver brighter, smoother video for shooting in the dark. LP Recording ­ Records at 1.5X the tape speed of the analog SP mode. The table below compares the digital record times versus analog record times on other products. It is recommended that LP recordings be played back on the unit on which the tape was recorded.
NTSC Analog SP D8 SP D8 LP P6-20 20 min. 10 min. 15 min. P6-30 30 min. 15 min. 22 min. P6-60 60 min. 30 min. 45 min. P6-120 120 min. 60 min. 90 min. P6-150 150 min. 75 min. 112 min P6-180 180 min. 90 min. 135 min.

allows camcorder users to upload images to a PC and perform a variety of image enhancements. Memory Mix Effects such as the Camera Chroma Key, Memory Chroma Key and Memory Luminance Key are available on the new Digital 8 camcorders with Memory Stick media. These combine digital still and video functions to create new and creative ways to enjoy digital imaging. For example, a motion video of your family can be superimposed on a still image of a beach scene. Play Back Zoom uses a 2x zoom to crop an image and create a new picture from a frame on the tape. For example, a group shot can be cropped and then saved on the Memory Stick media as a close-up of one person.

Built in Color Printer (DCR-TRV820 only)
DCR-TRV820 is the first camcorder with a built-in color printer. Pictures can be printed from either a video scene on the tape or a digital still image saved on the Memory Stick media. Prints are 2 by 3 inches on standard paper. There is also a choice of standard-sized stickers or multi-picture stickers that have nine smaller stickers on one sheet. Twenty standard paper sheets and ten sticker sheets of each type along with two ink ribbons are packaged with the DCR-TRV820. Ink ribbons can be used to take 20 prints.Replacement printer packs will be available at Sony retailers. Standard print packs with 40 sheets and two ribbons (CPPM-NR40) are expected to sell for about $20. Sticker paper with 20 standard-sized sticker sheets and 20 mini-sticker sheets (CPPM-SC40), plus two ribbons, are expected to sell for about $30.

Digital Still Camera with Memory Stick
All models except the DCR-TRV120 come with Digital Still Camera (DSC) capability. The supplied 4 MB Memory Stick allows the user to instantly take digital still pictures or capture a still image from their videotape. The pictures can be transferred to selected printers, desktop, notebook PCs or other digital devices. The supplied Memory Stick can store up to 60 pictures in standard mode and 40 pictures in fine mode. Both modes save the picture as a 640x480 JPEG image. Pictures taken in the standard mode use a compression ratio of approximately 10:1. This results in a file size of about 60k. Pictures taken in the fine mode use a compression ratio of approximately 6:1. This results in a file size of about 100k. Memory Sticks are also available separately with larger memory size than the 4 MB one provided with the camcorder. Memory Stick media is designed to connect to a host of different digital products and virtually any notebook or desktop computer with Sony's line of adapters. Available now are a floppy disk adapter (MSAC-FD2M) for about $100, a PC card adapter (MSAC-PC2) for about $80, and a parallel port adapter (MSACPR1) for about $90. These models come with a serial cable for direct connection to virtually any PC. The Lanc input doubles as an RS-232C serial connection. This makes viewing digital still images fast and easy. Also included is Picture Gear Lite 4.1, which is a digital photo editing software. This software

Model Differences
The table below shows the differences between this year's models.
Model DCR-TRV120 DCR-TRV320 DCR-TRV520 DCR-TRV525 DCR-TRV720 DCR-TRV820 Viewfinder B/W B/W B/W Color Color Color LCD Size 2.5 2.5 3.5 3 4 4 Printer No No No No No Yes DSC No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Tools Needed for D8 Servicing
Overview
The following section lists equipment that you will need to service 2000 D8 models. All the equipment is not listed - only items related to D8. You need to keep in mind that you should have all the equipment necessary to service analog 8mm camcorders. This would include analog test tapes and items necessary to perform camera adjustments such as a light box, Seimens star, white balance adjustment filters, RM-95, etc. The items in bold italics are new for this year.

Alignment Tapes
The following alignment tapes are necessary for servicing a D8 camcorder. All of these items are also necessary for 1999 models.
WR5-9NS WR5-1NP WR5-2D WR5-5ND WR5-3ND Torque Tape Hi8/D8 blank Mixed tape 8-967-995-23 8-967-995-02 8-967-993-22 8-967-993-42 8-967-993-32 J-6080-824-A P6120HMPD1 Make your own A8 Check A8 Tracking (1 head) D8 Switching D8 Check D8 Audio Torque Tape Should contain a lot of motion All purpose Checking Mech Switching time

Extender Cables and Jigs
Name CPC-13 75 ohm resistor 80 pin extender *100 pin extender 12 pin extender 16 pin extender CPC-14 Part Number J-6082-443-A 1-247-804-11 J-6082-494-A J-6082-352-A J-6082-495-A J-6082-357-A J-6082-498-A Description Jig for checking RF 75 ohm resistor Extends PC-78 and PR33 (TRV820 only) Extends PC board Extends printer section Extends the lens Jig for adjusting printer

D8 playback tape Make your own

In addition you will also need the following software and interface cables:
Radar W Software J-6082-430-A Also downloadable from Sony Service and Support Website Adjustment Remote 4-pin to 4-pin Mini plug to RCA A/V Memory Stick Troubleshooting Memory Stick Troubleshooting

* Required to troubleshoot all models with DSC.

Soldering Equipment
D8 servicing requires the typical soldering equipment that would be needed to service very small items. This would include tip-controlled soldering irons and some type of magnifying lens to make it easier to work with the small components. No TGA components are used in this year's models; however, the main board (VC-235) is a FRU repair item.

Radar W Interface RM-95 i.LINK Cable A/V Cable Digital I/O Cable Picture Gear 4.1

J-6082-429-A J-6082-053-B VM-IL4415 1-765-080-11 1-792-451-11 3-060-476-01

4

5

Boards Description and Location

VC-235 (CAMERA PROCESSOR, Y/C PROCESSOR, LENS MOTOR DRIVE, VIDEO/AUDIO IN/OUT, BASE BAND INPUT, VIDEO/AUDIO DSP, OSD, A/D CONVERTER, REC/PB AMP, Hi8/Std8 PB AMP, HI/MECHANISM/CAMERA CONTROL, SERVO, D/A CONVERTER, DC/DC CONVERTER, DV INTERFACE)

VF-141 (RGB DRIVER, TIMING GENERATOR) CD-270 (TRV820) (CCD IMAGER) LB-62 (BACK LIGHT)

SE-114 (STEADY SHOT, AV IN/OUT, DV IN/OUT) PR-33 (PRINTER DRIVER)

KP-009 (USER CONTROL)
FU-141 (DC IN FUSES) MI-37 (STEREO MIC AMP, IR TRANSMITTER/ RECEIVER) PC-78 (DIGITAL STILL CONTROL, STILL PICTURE SIGNAL PROCESS)

CF-72 (USER CONTROL)

PD-118 (RGB/CG LCD DRIVER, TIMING GENERATOR BACK LIGHT)

DCR-TRV820

Flexible Boards Location
CONTROL SWITCH BLOCK (SS-10000)

FP-157
FP-156 FP-224

FP-162 FP-161

FP-151

CONTROL SWITCH BLOCK (BV-10000) (from LENS BLOCK)

PANEL REVERSE SWITCH BLOCK (PR-10000) CONTROL SWITCH BLOCK (MF-10000)

FP-160

CONTROL SWITCH BLOCK (FK-10000)

FP-227 (from PRINTER HEAD)

(from PRINTER MOTOR) FFC-257

(from S/T REEL SENSOR) (from CAPSTAN MOTOR) (from DRUM MOTOR) (from VIDEO FP-159 HEAD) (from LOADING MOTOR, MODE SWITCH)

FP-163

DCR-TRV820
6

7

Digital 8 Format Review
Overview
This section will review the format used to record digital information on a tape. This format will be compared to the analog 8mm format so that it easier to understand how Digital 8 was created to remain compatible with analog 8mm while giving us the benefits of digital recording.

Track Layout
In the analog 8mm system, the heads put two swipes or tracks on the tape for each frame of video. Two tracks on the tape are equivalent to one frame of analog video information. Each track represents one field of interlaced video. Consequently, the drum rotates at a frame rate of 30Hz or 30 complete revolutions per second. The result is a drum speed of 1800 revolutions per minute (rpm).

In the D8 system, the heads put five swipes or tracks on the tape for each frame of video. These swipes are broken down into sub tracks and there are two sub tracks for every track. The reason for this is to keep the technology similar to the DV format, which uses ten tracks per frame of video. Each of the tracks represents a band of picture area on the video that is eventually output. These bands are separated into even and odd bands. These even and odd bands correlate to the even and odd swipes or tracks that are laid on the tape. Each head creates two sub tracks on the tape, which when played back, create two bands of the picture. Since there are five tracks for each frame, the pattern alternates every frame. This is due to the fact that five is not an even number.
HEAD TRACK 1 1 *ODD 2 BAND

3 2 * EVEN 4

1 2 3 4

5 3 *ODD 6

5 6 7

7 4 * EVEN 8

8 9 10 1 FRAME OF VIDEO

9 5 *ODD 10 SWP RF * ALTERNATES ODD AND EVEN EVERY FRAME

RF VS. PICTURE

The drum speed needs to be increased in order for the system to use five tracks per frame. At a drum speed of 75 Hz or 75 revolutions per second, we can place five tracks on the tape for each frame of video using two heads. The result is 150 tracks of information placed on the tape with a drum speed of 4500 revolutions per minute (rpm). It is important to note here that the way the information is placed on the tracks will have a great impact on the symptoms that will be seen when the tape path is misaligned or a head is clogged or lost.

Tape Speed
Since the drum speed was increased, there became a need to also increase the tape speed. If the tape speed were not increased, 150 tracks would have to be squeezed into the same area on the tape as 60 tracks. The system could not function this way and use the same heads. Consequently, the tape speed has been roughly doubled from 14.35 mm/sec to 28.66 mm/sec. This causes Digital 8 to have a track pitch (width) that is close to that of analog 8 which allows the use of the same heads for analog playback and digital recording and playback. LP record mode has been added this year. The LP mode operates with a tape speed 1.5x that of analog 8 SP. See the adjacent table for further details.
ANALOG 8
2 TRACKS X 30 FRAMES = 60 TRACKS/SEC TRACK PITCH = 20 µM TAPE SPEED = 14.345mm/SEC

Analog 8mm Track Information Tracks per frame Tracks per second Drum rotation speed Track pitch (width) Tape speed Recording time P6-120 Analog 2 60 1800 rpm 20.5 um 14.35 mm/sec. 120 minutes

Digital 8 SP Digital 5 150 4500 rpm 16.34 um 28.66 mm/sec 60 minutes

Digital 8 LP Digital 5 150 4500 10.9 um 19.14 mm/sec 90 minutes

NTSC

60 TRACKS/SEC

TAPE SPEED X 2 5 TRACKS X 30 FRAMES = 150 TRACKS/SEC TRACK PITCH = 16.34 µM TAPE SPEED = 28.66mm/SEC

DIGITAL 8 SP

NTSC

150 TRACKS/SEC

TAPE SPEED X 1.5 5 TRACKS X 30 FRAMES = 150 TRACKS/SEC TRACK PITCH = 10.9 µmm TAPE SPEED = 19.142mm/SEC

DIGITAL 8 LP

NTSC

150 TRACKS/SEC 150 TRACKS/SEC

TAPE SPEED COMPARISON (ANALOG 8 VS. D8)

8

9

Sub Track Information
The sub track information can be broken down into four distinct sectors. These are called the ITI, Audio, Video and Subcode sectors, each of which is separated by a gap. The gaps are there to allow for small tracking errors that may occur when editing. Each sector has its own designated purpose: ITI Sector ­ ITI stands for Insert and Track Information. It is used to control the tracking for insert editing. It also contains data that identifies the track format. The ITI sector contains 3600 bits per sub track. Audio Sector ­ This contains the audio information and parity bits used for error correction. The audio sector contains 11,550 bits per sub track. Video sector ­ This contains the video information and parity bits used for error correction. The video sector contains 113,225 bits per sub track. Subcode Sector ­ This contains an ID block which contains an index ID, PP-ID (still picture search marker), Skip ID and absolute track number. The data block contains subcode data for time code, REC date and REC time. Parity information is also contained in this sector. The subcode sector contains 3725 bits per sub track. In addition to the sectors, there are three Gap areas between the four sectors. They are called Gap 1, 2 and 3 and contain a preset run of bits. These gaps contain 625, 700 and 1550 bits respectively. If we add up the total number of bits in a complete sub track, we will count 134,975 bits. Since there are ten sub tracks per frame, we have 1.35Mb per frame. Since the NTSC signal contains 30 frames per second, we will have a total of 40.5Mb per second.

Alternating Head Pattern
Since there is an odd number of tracks in one frame, it is important to note that the head pattern alternates every frame. This gives us two distinct head patterns for a frame - ODD/EVEN/ODD/EVEN/ODD and EVEN/ODD/ EVEN/ODD/EVEN. This is important since a bad head will cause a flickering of the picture in five distinct bands.

Tape Wrap Angle
The tape wrap angle for an analog 8mm system must be at least 180 degrees for video to be recorded. This means that one head is in contact with the tape for the full 180 degrees and lays down one field of video information. The physical tape wrap of the B mechanism is 211 degrees. This means the tape wraps around the drum for 211 out of a possible 360 degrees. The wrap is 211 degrees to make it compatible with 8mm PCM, even though this feature is no longer available in US camcorders and has not been so for several years. Camcorders that use a B mechanism use switching to limit the effective wrap of the tape to 180 degrees.

D8 uses the B mechanism and also does not need the entire 211 degree wrap. D8 uses switching to limit the effective wrap angle to 177 degrees. The first 87 degrees of this effective wrap are used to put down the first sub track. The next three degrees are used for ITG. ITG is the Inter Track Guard that separates two sub tracks. The remaining 87 degrees are used to place the second sub track on the tape. This process continues while the tape is recording. This effective wrap is also the same when reading the tape during playback.

10

11

RF Problem Symptoms
Overview
This section will discuss the symptoms seen by the technician when playing back units that have the guidepost misaligned or have a bad or clogged head. Remember you must always use a tape that contains motion when looking for picture defects in digital tape video.

Entrance Guide Misadjusted Clockwise
A B AB A HEAD ORIENTATION SUB CODE SECTOR ODD SUB TRACKS EVEN SUB TRACKS BABAB ON NEXT FRAME TAPE DIRECTION

VIDEO SECTOR

RF WAVEFORM

AUDIO SECTOR ITI SECTOR

ONE FRAME: 5 TRACKS (NTSC)

If the entrance guide were misadjusted in the clockwise direction, it would effect the RF as shown above. We can see that the front portion of the RF waveform is rolling off. If we relate this back to the track structure that is laid on the tape, we can see that the area effected would be the odd sub tracks. In other words, this part of the RF envelope corresponds to the bottom portion of the tracks on the tape. The areas most effected would be the ITI, Audio and Video sections. If you were to misalign a camcorder by turning the entrance guide clockwise while the tape is playing, you would begin to experience loss of audio followed by blocking on the left edge of the picture in ODD bands. This picture is shown below.

Although no symptom is apparent when playing back a tape, the ITI section of the Odd sub tracks is affected the most. Since the ITI section contains Insert and Track Information, a problem with editing could be expected. This is why it is very important to check the tape path on every D8 model that you see. Even though there appears to be no problem now, there may be in the future if the customer decides they want to edit their tapes using a PC or other device. An example of this seen in last year's models was lack of audio and video synchronization after copying to a PC, editing and then recording back to the unit.

Entrance Guide Misadjusted Counter-clockwise
If the entrance guide were misadjusted in the counter-clockwise direction, it would cause the RF waveform to fishtail. This would effect the sectors on the tape that are in the shaded area.
A B AB A HEAD ORIENTATION SUB CODE SECTOR ODD SUB TRACKS EVEN SUB TRACKS BABAB ON NEXT FRAME TAPE DIRECTION

Exit Guide misadjusted Clockwise
When the exit guide is misadjusted clockwise, there will be a noticeable tape curl before the picture or sound is affected. If the exit guide were misaligned this extreme, there would be blocking in the even bands of the picture.

Exit Guide misadjusted Counter-clockwise
If the exit guide were misadjusted in the counter-clockwise direction, it would cause the RF waveform to fishtail. This would effect the sectors on the tape that are in the shaded area.
A B AB A BABAB ON NEXT FRAME TAPE DIRECTION HEAD ORIENTATION SUB CODE SECTOR ODD SUB TRACKS EVEN SUB TRACKS

VIDEO SECTOR

RF WAVEFORM

AUDIO SECTOR ITI SECTOR

VIDEO SECTOR

ONE FRAME: 5 TRACKS (NTSC)

The result would be possible audio distortion and blocking in the middle of the picture in the odd bands. This is illustrated in the picture below.

RF WAVEFORM

AUDIO SECTOR ITI SECTOR

ONE FRAME: 5 TRACKS (NTSC)

The result would be blocking in the middle of the picture in the even bands. This is illustrated in the picture below. This type of misalignment would not effect the audio.

12

13

Bad or Clogged Head
In the event of a clogged head, the picture seen would look like the one below.

Therefore the result would be no information for bands 1,2, 5, 6, 9 and 10 during the first frame. During the next frame we will have video for the above mentioned bands and bands 3, 4, 7 and 8 will contain the video from the previous frame. This is because if no new data comes in for a particular block of picture, the data from the previous frame is used. This pattern repeats while a tape is being played.
SUB TRACK 1 1 *ODD 2

HEAD

BAND

3 2 * EVEN 4

1 2 3 4

5 3 *ODD 6

5 6 7

Although it is hard to tell from the still image, what you are actually seeing is the picture flickering in alternating bands of two. In order to understand this further, let us examine what happens when one head does not read information. If the Odd head (A head) is not functioning, we see that we will lose the 1st, 3rd and 5th track in the first frame. Since the head pattern will alternate every frame, the next frame will be missing the 2nd and 4th tracks. This pattern repeats as long as the tape is played.
A B AB A HEAD ORIENTATION TWO TRACKS SUB CODE SECTOR BABAB ON NEXT FRAME TAPE DIRECTION

7 4 * EVEN 8

8 9 10 1 FRAME OF VIDEO

9 5 *ODD 10 SWP RF * ALTERNATES ODD AND EVEN EVERY FRAME

RF VS. PICTURE

VIDEO SECTOR

ODD HEAD TRACKS

EVEN HEAD TRACKS

AUDIO SECTOR ITI SECTOR

RF WAVEFORM ONE FRAME: 5 TRACKS (NTSC)

BAD OR CLOGGED HEAD

NOTES

14

15

Tape Path Alignment
Overview
This section describes the correct procedure for performing a tape path alignment in 1999 and 2000 model year D8 camcorders. It is very important that the tape path be checked on every unit. Even though a problem may not be seen with a particular tape or unit, there are a number of compatibility issues. These issues mainly deal with playing tapes recorded by one machine in another and editing recorded tapes using a PC or editor.

3. Connect the CPC-13 jig to test connector with the contact side facing the mechanism. In the DCR-TRV820, the contact side of the jig should face the rear of the camcorder where the battery attaches.

Analog Mode Tape Path Alignment
Alignment of a D8 camcorder's tape path should always be done using an analog tape. Follow the procedure below for tape path alignment: 1. In all models except the DCR-TRV820, locate the cover hiding the test connector. This is located where the battery attaches to the camera. In the DCR-TRV820 locate the cover by opening the LCD door fully. You will find the cover between the function buttons and the printer. 2. Remove the cover by placing a small screwdriver into the slot underneath the cover and pressing the clip, which cannot be seen under the cover.

4. Place the WR5-1NP tape in the basket and close it. 5. Connect the oscilloscope as follows. Channel 1 to Pin 5 PB RF and Channel 2 to Pin 8 VC RF SWP. 6. Adjust the settings on the scope as follows: Display CH1, Trigger Internal Channel 2, Slope to (-), Timebase 2ms, CH1 to 20mV and CH2 to .2V (use 10x probes). 7. Reconnect power to the unit. Press Play. You should see an RF envelope that contains only one head. Adjust the entrance and exit tape guides so that the RF envelope is rectangular with no dips or curves. 8. Connect the RM-95 to the Lanc jack if it is not already connected. 9. Release the write protect by setting Page 0 Address 01 data 01.

10. Place the camcorder in ¼ Track Shift Mode by setting Page F Address 2C Data 4 in 1999 models. In 2000 models set Page F Address 22 Data 88. This will lower the amplitude of the RF waveform. Confirm that the envelope is still rectangular with no dips or fishtails. Adjust the guide to make the envelope rectangular if necessary.

Must be flat

4. Connect the scope probes as follows: Channel 1 to Pin 16 RF Mon on the CPC-13 and Channel 2 to Pin 13 DV RF SWP. The oscilloscope should still be set as follows: Display CH1, Trigger Internal Channel 2, Slope to -, Timebase 1ms, CH1 to 10mV and CH2 to .2V (use 10x probes). 5. Press Play. 6. Notice that you do not see an RF envelope at this point. In order to see one you must use the following steps. Using the RM-95 set Page 2 Address 2E Data 01, Page 3 Address 33 Data 08 and Page 3 Address 26 Data 31. You should now see a DV RF waveform on CH1 of the scope. This waveform should be flat. Also notice that there are gaps in the DV RF waveforms. These gaps separate each sub track. Therefore every 2 gaps represent RF from 1 head.
Must be flat

11. Set ¼ Track Shift Mode data back to its original setting. Confirm again that the RF envelope is rectangular. Repeat steps 9 and 10 if necessary. 12. Press Stop. Eject the tape and remove the WR5-1NP tape.

Digital Mode Tape Path Alignment
1. Place the WR5-5ND tape in the basket and close it. This tape is the D8 System Check tape. It can be used to check the overall camcorder performance. One drawback to this tape is that it contains color bars and grayscale scenes. Since there is only motion when there is a change of scene it can be more difficult to see blocking distortion. 2. Connect the CPC-13 jig to the appropriate test connector. 3. A 75 Ohm resistor should already be placed between Pin16 RF Mon and Pin 6 Gnd on the CPC-13 jig. If you have not added this 75-ohm resistor to your CPC-13 jig do so now.

Pin 16

Pin 13

7. Display CH2 on the scope. This confirms that the separations are sub tracks because you see only one SWP transition for every two gaps in the RF. 8. Press Stop. Press eject and remove the tape.

16

17

Video Path
Overview
Due to the many features of this year's D8 camcorders, there are six different video paths. These are for the different playback and record modes and do not include the paths for the Memory Stick playback and record. Note: There are four copies of the drawing on the facing page. Please use all four to highlight the different paths, as highlighting on just one will be too cluttered. These six modes are listed below: Camera Record D8 Playback
Line In Record i.LINK Record A8 Playback A/V DV Out Media Converter

Line In Record
During Line In record, the video path is as follows: Composite video or S video can be input to the camcorder through J201 on the SE-114 board. The signal is sent to the IC3701 Video In/Out on the VC-235 board. IC3701 Video In/Out is responsible for all input and output switching of video, and conversion of composite signals to Y and C, or Y and C signals to composite video. The signal input is output by IC3701 Video In/Out as analog Y and C to IC3603 BBI (Baseband Interface). The BBI IC is an A/D converter that outputs digital video in the 4:2:2 format. This means that there will be 8 bits of Y and 8 bits of C. The Y signals share the same 8-bit bus that IC2201 Y/C Processor uses in the camera record path. These lines are called IFI Y0-Y7. The first four lines of the C data bus are shared with those used by the IC2201 Y/C Processor during camera record. These lines are called IFI C0-C3. There are also four additional C lines used during line in record. They are called IFI C4-C7. This data is then sent to the PC board via CN1104 and is processed by IC108 Still Picture Signal Process. The data is split into two paths, one for the Still Image section and the other for the main video path. The main video data is converted to 4:1:1 format and output as VFI Y0-Y7 and VFI C0-C3. This data is output back to the VC-235 board via CN1104 to IC3301 Video DSP. This IC contains all of the compression and shuffling circuits, as well as the EE outputs for the EVF and LCD, and also Laserlink. There is no i.LINK, composite video or S video output during this mode. After all processing is complete, IC3301 Video DSP outputs a single record data line. This record data is input to IC3103 RP Amp, which amplifies the signal and applies it to the heads for recording on the tape.

Camera Record
The image received by the CCD is converted to electrical signals and output from the CD-270 board to IC1502 S/H, AGC, A/D Converter on the VC-235 board. This IC contains a sample and hold circuit, and AGC for the analog signal input from the CCD. This signal is then A/D converted and output on a 10-bit data bus. The data on this bus is input to IC2201 Y/ C Processor. This IC converts the CCD data to separate Y and C data. IC2201 Y/C Processor outputs the 8 bits of Y data and 4 bits of C data. This is due to the 4:1:1 video format. This means that for every four samples of Y, we use one sample of the R-Y color component (Cr) and one sample of the B-Y color component (Cb). These data lines are referred to as IFI Y0-Y7 and IFI C0-C3. This data is then sent to the PC board via CN1104. The data is processed by IC108 Still Picture Signal Process and is split into two paths. One path is for the Still Image section and the other is for the main video path. This data is now referred to as VFI Y0-Y7 and VFI C0-C3, and is output back to the VC-235 board via CN1104 to IC3301 Video DSP. This IC contains all of the compression and shuffling circuits that were contained in four ICs in last year's models, as well as the EE outputs for the EVF, LCD, i.LINK, and Y and C line outputs. After all processing is complete, IC3301 Video DSP outputs a single record data line. This record data is input to IC3103 RP Amp. This IC amplifies the signal, which is applied to the heads for recording on the tape.

A/V DV Out "Media Converter"
This year's models contain a new feature that allows composite or S video to be converted to the digital format used by i.LINK. This allows the user to make digital copies of older analog recordings and store them on their PC's hard drive. This mode must be enabled in the menu. The path for this mode is identical to the Line In record path, except that the i.Link path is enabled.

IR VIDEO CD-XXX IC101 CCD IC3901 MI-XXX IR TRANSMITTER CV Y C IC3201 A8 PB AMP Y IC3603 BBI IC2201 Y/C PROCESSOR C PB YRF IC3701 VIDEO IN/OUT

Y

PBRF RECDT

IC3103 RP AMP

DRUM B700 MECH

C 8 BIT IC3101 PLL + A/D

J201 IC1502 S/H,AGC A/D CONVERTER 10 BIT SE-XXX 2/2 PB CRF

SE-XXX 1/2 Y C 4 BIT L BUS TPA +/IC3303 LIP TPB +/DV IN/OUT

CF-XX PANEL RGB VFO Y0 - Y7 IC3301 VIDEO DSP EVF RGB

PD-XXX IC5501 RGB DRIVE VF-XXX IC4501 RGB DRIVE EVF LCD

IFI Y0 - Y7

*

IFI - C0 - C7 VFIO C4 - C7 VFI Y0 - Y7

IC108 STILL PICTURE SIGNAL PROCESS

VFI C0 - C3 DATA TO/FROM MEMORY STICK CONTROL AND TO PRINTER CONTROL VC-235

PC-XX

*ONLY CO-C3 OUTPUT FROM IC2201
6D802 8/3/00

VIDEO SIGNAL PATH BLOCK

18

19

i.LINK Record
The i.LINK signal can be input and recorded on the tape. In addition, it is processed for use by the still picture section and the EE path. The i.LINK signal is input to the camcorder via the DV In/Out jack on the SE-114 board. This signal is then sent to IC3303 DV INTERFACE on the VC-235 board. IC3303 DV Interface contains the physical, link and transaction layers needed to process the i.LINK data. The digital video information is stripped from the i.LINK signal and sent to IC3301 Video DSP. The digital video information from the i.LINK input is already shuffled and compressed. It only needs to be converted to a single data stream and output to IC3103 RP Amp. The single data stream is amplified and applied to the heads for recording. IC3301 Video DSP also de-shuffles and decompresses the i.LINK data for digital still and EE. This data is output from IC3301 Video DSP as VFO Y0-Y7 and VFIO C4-C7. These signals are routed to the PC board by CN1104 and are processed by IC108 Still Picture Signal Process. They are output as VFI Y0-Y7 and VFI C0-C3. The VFI signals are returned to the VC board and input to IC3301 Video DSP. IC3301 Video DSP takes the VFI signals and converts them for use by the various EE paths.

Still Picture Signal Process and output as VFI Y0-Y7 and VFI C0-C3. The VFI signals are returned to the VC board and input to IC3301 Video DSP. IC3301 Video DSP takes the VFI signals and converts them for use by the various EE paths. This is confirmed by shorting a color line at VFI. When this is done, the EE picture becomes distorted but a picture stored on the memory stick is not distorted.

A8 Playback
IC3103 RP Amp amplifies the signal from the heads. IC3103 RP Amp outputs the PB RF signal to IC3201 A8 PB Amp. IC3201 separates the luminance and chroma portions of the RF. The PB C RF is sent to IC1502 S/H, AGC, and A/D Converter. This IC A/D converts the PB C RF to 10 bits of data. This data is input to IC2201 Y/C Processor. The PB Y RF signal is sent directly to IC2201 Y/C Processor. The Y/C Processor converts the 10 bits of C data to an analog C signal. It also demodulates the PB Y RF to a Y signal. These Y and C signals are output to IC3701 Video In/Out. IC3701 then switches these Y and C signals so they are input to IC3603 BBI. The BBI IC is an A/D converter that outputs digital video in the 4:2:2 format. This means that there will be 8 bits of Y and 8 bits of C. The Y signals share the same 8-bit bus that IC2201 Y/C Processor uses in the camera record path. These lines are called IFI Y0-Y7. The first four lines of the C data bus are shared with those used by the IC2201 Y/C Processor during camera record. These lines are called IFI C0-C3. There are also four additional C lines used during line in record. They are called IFI C4-C7. This data is then sent to the PC board via CN1104, where it is processed by IC108 Still Picture Signal Process. The data is split into two paths, one for the Still Image section and the other for the main video path. This data is now referred to as VFI Y0-Y7 and VFI C0-C3. It is output back to the VC-235 board via CN1104 to IC3301 Video DSP. This IC converts the Y and C data for the various EE paths.

D8 Playback
IC3103 RP Amp amplifies the signal from the heads. The RF signal is sent to IC3101 PLL and A/D Converter. The RF signal is used in a PLL circuit, which creates a stable clock for processing the playback data. IC3101 PLL and A/D Converter also convert the analog RF signal to an 8bit digital signal. The 8 bit digital signals are output to IC3301 Video DSP. IC3301 Video DSP performs all processing of the signal from the tape including error correction, de-shuffling and decompression. After error correction, the data is split into two paths. One is output to IC3303 DV INTERFACE. IC3303 DV INTERFACE converts the data that is still shuffled and compressed to packets used by i.LINK. The other remains internal to IC3301 Video DSP for de-shuffling and decompression. The signal is de-shuffled, decompressed and output as VFO Y0-Y7 and VFIO C4-C7. The VFO signals are routed to IC108 Still Picture Signal Process on the PC board. The VFO signals are processed by IC108

IR VIDEO CD-XXX IC101 CCD IC3901 MI-XXX IR TRANSMITTER CV Y C IC3201 A8 PB AMP Y IC3603 BBI IC2201 Y/C PROCESSOR C PB YRF IC3701 VIDEO IN/OUT

Y

PBRF RECDT

IC3103 RP AMP

DRUM B700 MECH

C 8 BIT IC3101 PLL + A/D

J201 IC1502 S/H,AGC A/D CONVERTER 10 BIT SE-XXX 2/2 PB CRF

SE-XXX 1/2 Y C 4 BIT L BUS TPA +/IC3303 LIP TPB +/DV IN/OUT

CF-XX PANEL RGB VFO Y0 - Y7 IC3301 VIDEO DSP EVF RGB

PD-XXX IC5501 RGB DRIVE VF-XXX IC4501 RGB DRIVE EVF LCD

IFI Y0 - Y7

*

IFI - C0 - C7 VFIO C4 - C7 VFI Y0 - Y7

IC108 STILL PICTURE SIGNAL PROCESS

VFI C0 - C3 DATA TO/FROM MEMORY STICK CONTROL AND TO PRINTER CONTROL VC-235

PC-XX

*ONLY CO-C3 OUTPUT FROM IC2201
6D802 8/3/00

VIDEO SIGNAL PATH BLOCK

20

21

Video Path Troubleshooting
Overview
There are several different ways to troubleshoot video problems. This section will discuss one possible method. The object is to first determine if the problem is with the VC board.

Does the problem occur in analog and digital PB modes?
If the problem occurs in both modes, first suspect something with the mechanism and then the mech drive circuits. If you suspect the mech drive circuits, replace the VC board since all mechanism drives are located there. If the problem is just analog be sure that the analog SWP and the capstan FG adjustment are correct. If they are OK, suspect the VC board. If the problem occurs in digital mode only, perform the critical adjustments.

Determine whether the problem is with video, sound or both.
Gather as much information as possible from the customer and your own observations. Check all modes and look for any clue as to what is wrong with the unit. If the problem is blocking in digital mode, check the tape path alignment and all critical digital adjustments. The critical D8 adjustments are Reel FG, PLL and LPF Pre, D8 SWP, AGC Center Level, APC and AEQ, and PLL Final. These adjustments can be done using the latest Radar W download and they will take approximately five minutes to perform. Note: This RadarW update is not available at the time this book was written. It should be on the Service and Support web site by the end of Summer 2000.

Does the problem appear on the viewfinder, LCD, line out, IR Out and i.LINK out? Is it intermittent?
If video is missing from one of the EE outputs then troubleshoot the path for that particular output. If blocking is seen on the EE outputs when in camera mode then replace the VC board. If blocking is seen in PB mode, suspect servo, tape path alignment or the VC board.

Is the problem playback, record or both?
In general it is easier to troubleshoot playback problems than it is record problems. You will need another unit to determine if the camcorder is recording correctly. Playback will also tell you if the mechanism is properly aligned and operating correctly. There is no simple way to check these things in record mode.

If it is a video problem, is it a color or solarization problem?
The pictures shown on the next page of text show the symptoms when some of the data lines contain no data. This symptom would occur no matter which set of data lines had the problem. This means that missing data on the IFI Y0 line would appear the same as a missing VFI Y0. Follow the explanation below to determine where to look at this data on a scope and isolate the fault to a board.

Is the problem related to video, audio or both?
If there is a problem with video and audio, it is more likely that there is a tape path alignment or servo problem.

Determine if the problem is on the VC or PC boards.
All video data runs through both of these boards. The EE path begins when VFI is input to IC3301 Video DSP. When determining which board contains the problem you can use the test points located on the VC board.

Is the problem blocking in digital mode?
If yes, check the tape path alignment.

Check the tape path alignment.
This can be done easily using Radar W or RM-95 and the CPC-13 jig. Refer to the tape path alignment section for more details.

IR VIDEO CD-XXX IC101 CCD IC3901 MI-XXX IR TRANSMITTER CV Y C IC3201 A8 PB AMP Y IC3603 BBI C PB YRF IC3701 VIDEO IN/OUT

Y

PBRF RECDT

IC3103 RP AMP

DRUM B700 MECH

C 8 BIT IC3101 PLL + A/D

J201 IC1502 S/H,AGC A/D CONVERTER 10 BIT SE-XXX 2/2 PB CRF

SE-XXX 1/2 Y C 4 BIT L BUS TPA +/IC3303 LIP TPB +/DV IN/OUT

*IC2201
Y/C PROCESSOR IFI Y0 - Y7 IC3301 VIDEO DSP VFO Y0 - Y7

CF-XX PANEL RGB

PD-XXX IC5501 RGB DRIVE VF-XXX LCD

*

IFI - C0 - C7 VFIO C4 - C7 VFI Y0 - Y7 EVF RGB

IC4501 RGB DRIVE

EVF

IC108 STILL PICTURE SIGNAL PROCESS

VFI C0 - C3 DATA TO/FROM MEMORY STICK CONTROL AND TO PRINTER CONTROL VC-235

PC-XX

*ONLY CO-C3 OUTPUT FROM IC2201
6D802 8/1/00

VIDEO SIGNAL PATH BLOCK

22

23
Start by checking the IFI lines in camera mode. Data should be present at the IFI test points, if it is not, suspect the VC board. If the PC board is disconnected to unload the VC board, signals will only be seen at the IFI Y0, Y4 and C0 test points. These signals will not react to motion changes in front of the lens when the PC board is not plugged in. Then check the VFI test points. If all the data is present and correct at all VFI test points and no EE and/or record is functioning, replace the VC board. If some or all of the VFI data were missing or incorrect, then the problem would be on the PC board. The PC board should be troubleshot to component level. The table on the following page shows when and where data should be present during all modes. Use it as your guide for troubleshooting when only one of the modes is not functioning correctly.

Test Points IFI Y0-Y7 IFI C0-C3 IFI C4-C7 VFI Y0-Y7 VFI C0-C3 VFIO C4-C7 Bottom

Camera Rec Data Data No Data Data Data No Data

Line In Rec Data Data Data Data Data No Data

i.LINK Rec No Data No Data No Data Data Data Data

D8 PB No Data No Data No Data Data Data Data

A8 PB Data Data Data Data Data No Data

Media Converter Data Data Data Data Data No Data

Y2

Y5

Y7

C0

C3

IR VIDEO CD-XXX IC101 CCD IC3901 MI-XXX IR TRANSMITTER CV Y C IC3201 A8 PB AMP Y IC3603 BBI C PB YRF IC3701 VIDEO IN/OUT

Y

PBRF RECDT

IC3103 RP AMP

DRUM B700 MECH

C 8 BIT IC3101 PLL + A/D

J201 IC1502 S/H,AGC A/D CONVERTER 10 BIT SE-XXX 2/2 PB CRF

SE-XXX 1/2 Y C 4 BIT L BUS TPA +/IC3303 LIP TPB +/DV IN/OUT

*IC2201
Y/C PROCESSOR IFI Y0 - Y7 IC3301 VIDEO DSP VFO Y0 - Y7

CF-XX PANEL RGB

PD-XXX IC5501 RGB DRIVE VF-XXX LCD

*

IFI - C0 - C7 VFIO C4 - C7 VFI Y0 - Y7 EVF RGB

IC4501 RGB DRIVE

EVF

IC108 STILL PICTURE SIGNAL PROCESS

VFI C0 - C3 DATA TO/FROM MEMORY STICK CONTROL AND TO PRINTER CONTROL VC-235

PC-XX

*ONLY CO-C3 OUTPUT FROM IC2201
6D802 8/1/00

VIDEO SIGNAL PATH BLOCK

24

25

Still Picture and Printer Block
Overview
This section will discuss the signal paths for the still picture and printer. The processing is done on the PC board. The still picture function is not available in the DCR-TRV120. The printer is only available in the DCRTRV820.

The encoded data is then output to IC105 DSC Memory Stick I/F. This IC controls the following: Memory Stick I/F ­ IC105 converts the parallel data to serial for use by the memory stick. It controls the clock and busy state lines during communication between the memory stick and itself. There is also a line that is used to detect the presence of the memory stick in the slot. RS-232 Interface ­ Transmits and receives data for the Digital I/ O jack. The Digital I/O jack is used with the supplied cable to transfer pictures to and from the memory stick to a PC.

Still Picture Process
Memory Stick Record
The IFI Y and C data is received from the VC board by IC108 Still Picture Signal Process on the PC board. IC108 Still Picture Signal Process is connected on a 16-bit bus with IC105 DSC Memory Stick I/F, IC107 16MB DRAM, and IC109 4MB Flash. This bus is also connected to IC601 and IC602 Data Latch for the printer section of the DCR-TRV820. Using IC107 16MB DRAM, IC108 Still Picture Signal Process does the following: Aspect Converter ­ The data from the VC board, which contains information for a picture that is 720X480 (NTSC), is converted for a picture that is 640X480 (VGA). JPEG Engine ­ Compression is performed to reduce the number of bits in the picture. There are two compression ratios, standard and fine. Standard mode produces a file size of approximately 60 kB while Fine mode produces a file size of approximately 100 kB. Shutter Sound Generator ­ When an image is captured, a camera shutter sound is heard. This can be used as an indication that IC108 Still Picture Signal Process is functioning. Feature Block ­ The feature block performs the Memory Mix operations. This would include Camera Chroma Key, Memory Chroma Key and Memory Luminance Key.

Memory Stick Playback
Images stored on the memory stick can be played back or output through the RS-232 port to a PC. During this process the reverse of record occurs. IC105 DSC Memory Stick I/F converts the image data from the memory stick from serial to parallel data. IC105 DSC Memory Stick I/F places the parallel data on the 16-bit bus. The JPEG data is decoded by IC108 Still Picture Signal Process. The data is then converted back to the original 720X480 NTSC picture aspect ratio and output on the VFI Y and C buses. The following test points on the VC board can be used to determine if the problem is occurring on the VC or the PC board:

Test Points IFI Y0-Y7 IFI C0-C3 IFI C4-C7 VFI Y0-Y7 VFI C0-C3 VFIO C4-C7

Mem Stick PB No Data No Data No Data Data Data No Data

Mem Rec. Data Data No Data Data Data No Data

Stick

VC-235 Y AND C DATA FROM IC2201 Y/C PROCESSOR OR IFI Y IC3603 BBI IFI C

VFO Y VFIO C

Y DATA FROM IC3301 VIDEO DSP C DATA TO/FROM IC3301 VIDEO DSP VFI Y VFI C Y AND C DATA TO IC3301 VIDEO DSP

IC108 STILL PICTURE SIGNAL PROCESS

IC105 DSC MEMORY STICK I/F IC107 16MB DRAM

MS FP-162

16 BIT DATA BUS

IC109 4MB FLASH IC601 DATA LATCH IC602 DATA LATCH IC501 HEAD DRIVE IC503 MOTOR DRIVE PRINT HEAD

8 BIT 8 BIT

IC603 PRINT CONTROL

M

PC-XX IC605 16MB DRAM PR-33 BOARD PRINT MECH

STILL PICTURE AND PRINTER SIGNAL PATH BLOCK

7/26/00 7D802

26

27

Printer
Signal path
The DCR-TRV820 is the only D8 model that contains a built-in printer. Due to this fact the TRV820 uses a different PC board, PC-78 versus PC77 used in other models. It also uses an additional board, PR-33, and contains the print mechanism itself. The data from the 16-bit still picture data bus is split into two groups of eight and applied to two data latches, IC601 and IC602. This data is then processed by IC603 Print Control using IC605 16MB DRAM for storage while operations are being performed. IC603 Print Control converts the RGB signals from the still picture bus to YMC for the printer. YMC stand for Yellow Magenta Cyan. These are the three colors of the print cartridge. IC603 Print Control then outputs to IC501 Head Drive on the PR33 board. IC603 Print Control also outputs signals for IC503 Motor Drive on the PR-33 board. This IC moves the printer motor. The printer motor controls all movement of the printer ribbon and the paper.

plane. During this operation the LCD is blanked. The LCD is blanked any time the print head voltage is ON. This cycle repeats itself for a total of four cycles. The four cycles are for printing the cyan, magenta, yellow and clear planes. This operation ends when the printer marker is sensed to indicate that cyan is the next plane. When this occurs, the paper is ejected from the exit side.
Thermistor Exit Side Paper Sensor Ribbon Market Sensor

Cassette Sensor Cassette Type Sensor

Operation
The flowchart on the following page shows the operation of the printer. It begins when the printer standby cover is moved and the printer section's DC-DC Converter turns ON. This causes the printer to initialize. During initialization the printer motor turns in both directions. After this, the printer checks the entrance side paper sensor for paper. If there is no paper present, the red Print Paper LED will flash. The unit will now wait for paper to be inserted. When paper is inserted, the Entrance side paper sensor senses it. This causes paper loading to occur. During paper loading, the paper is pulled slightly forward and then moved back to the start position. The printer is now waiting for the print command to be given. The print command is given when the print button is pushed. When the print command is given, the LCD screen turns blue with the word "preparing" written across it. The paper is pulled through the printer and returned to the paper exit side. During this time the ribbon marker sensor is looking for the beginning mark in the ribbon. The ribbon marker is a thick black line across the ribbon that occurs just before the cyan plane. Data is then forwarded to the print head and the paper is fed to print the first
Entrance Side Paper Sensor

Print Mechanism

Power ON

Initializes Mechanism

Paper Sensor Yes Paper

no Print one

Yes 4 planes no no Ribbon marker

Print Command come? Yes Ribbon top marker

Eject Paper

Paper Back feed

Paper Back

Data

Print Control Sequence
28

29 Adjusting the Printer Head Voltage
The printer mechanism is one part and should be changed as a unit. Anytime the printer mechanism is changed the printer head voltage must be adjusted. This is done using the CPC-14 jig and the RM-95. The optimum print head voltage is on the print cartridge. 1. With the LCD door open and the printer door open, connect the RM95 and the CPC-14 jig to the camcorder. 2. Connect your voltmeter to the terminals on the CPC-14 jig. 3. Release the write protect by setting Page 0 Address 1 Data 01. 4. Set Page 5 Address 01 Data 5A. Press Pause to write. 5. Set Page 5 Address 00 Data 01. Press pause to write. The LCD will blank and all of the printer indicator lights will illuminate. 6. Change the data at Page F Address 83 to obtain the optimum voltage reading within +/- .05 volts. Press pause to write this value. 7. The adjustment is done. Disconnect power, the RM-95 and the CPC14 jig.

LED Indications
The following page shows what the LED indications are from the camcorder's print section. Different LEDs will give different indications for various problems as shown.

Dirty Print Head
Sometimes the print head may become dirty. When this occurs, the customer can use the supplied print head cleaner to solve the problem. When the print head becomes dirty, the symptom appears as below. The same symptom could occur if the printer ribbon should become dirty or if there is dirt on the paper.

Indicates dirt on Head or Ribbon

Print If Print LED flickers early *DC-DC Converter abnormal *Thermistor abnormal Print Paper *Paper loading failure *Paper jamming *Paper sensor defective *Mechanism abnormal Print cartridge *Ribbon marker sensing failure *Ribbon winding failure *Ribbon sensor defective *Mechanism abnormal *(Ribbon end)

LED Indications

30

31

Audio Path Block
Overview
This section will explain the various record and playback audio paths. There are six different paths that can be used, depending upon which mode of operation you are in. They are camera record, line in record, "Media Converter", i.LINK record, D8 playback and A8 playback.

"Media Converter"
The "Media Converter" mode allows the line input to be used to produce an output from the i.LINK DV Interface. The signal will take the same path as line-in record up to IC3301 Video DSP. This IC will not output i.LINK data during line-in mode. It will output i.LINK data in "Media Converter" DV out mode.

i.LINK Record
When a signal is input on the i.LINK DV interface, it contains compressed and shuffled video, and digitized audio. These signals are interleaved. This signal is input to IC3301 Video DSP from IC3303 DV Interface via the L Bus. This signal is processed further and record data (RECDT) and record clock (RECCK) are input to IC3103 RP Amp. IC3103 RP Amp amplifies these signals and applies them to the head.

Camera Record
When in the camera record mode, the audio source can be the built-in microphones, an external microphone input to J156 on FP-156 or a mic from the Intelligent Accessory Shoe. All three sets of mic audio are input to IC5801 Stereo Mic Amp. This IC amplifies the chosen signal and outputs it to CN5804/9 and 11, which connect to CN1111/22 and 24. The signals are then input to IC5701 Audio In/Out. IC5701 is responsible for switching all incoming and outgoing audio signals to and from ICIC5702 A/D, D/A Converter. IC5701 Audio In/Out also outputs audio for SP003 Speaker. IC5702 A/D, D/A Converter then converts the analog mic signal into a digital signal. This data is input to IC3301 Video DSP where the digitized audio is interleaved with the shuffled and compressed video signal. This signal is processed further and record data (RECDT) and record clock (RECCK) are input to IC3103 TRW. TRW is the head amp, which amplifies these signals and applies them to the head.

D8 Playback
During D8 playback the RF signal is converted to data and output from IC3101 PLL to IC3301 Video DSP. This IC de-interleaves the audio from the video and outputs the audio data to IC5702 A/D, D/A Converter. This IC converts the digital audio signal to analog and outputs it to the speaker, line out and headphone jack.

A8 Playback
During A8 playback the RF signal is applied to IC3201 Hi/STD8 PB Amp where it is amplified and applied to IC5701 Audio In/Out. In addition to its switching capabilities, IC5701 Audio In/Out demodulates the PB RF. It produces left and right audio, which is then distributed to the appropriate outputs.

Line In Record
Audio for line in recording is input to J201A/V In/Out on the SE-114 board. It is input to the VC board at CN1103/19 and 21. The Left and Right signals are then input to IC5701 Audio In/Out. IC5701 Audio In/Out automatically determines by the presence of audio if it is an input or an output. If it detects audio, it will become an input. The signal then follows the same path as Camera record audio, except there is no i.LINK output in this mode. However, Line In audio is available at the speaker.

J201 23 21 19 J157 6 8

CN1103 VIDEO I/O 23 21 AUDIO L I/O 19 AUDIO R I/O

TO IC1307 VIDEO IN/OUT

23 24 CN1105

CN001 22 23

CN003 1 2 CF-XX SP903

CN5804

2 4

CN1111 2 HPL 4 HPR

FP-156

MI-XX

IC5701 AUDIO IN/OUT

IC5702 A/D, D/A CONVERTER

IC3301 VIDEO DSP

RECDT TO RP AMP RECCK IC3103

J156 21 19 MIC5802 MICL MICR MIC5803 VTR UNREG CN5802 1 1 CN5803 IC3901 IR TRANSMIT 9 7 24 26 L R IC5801 STEREO MIC AMP MICL MICR 11 22 9 24 12 21 MICL MICR TO/FROM IC3303 DV INTERFACE DV PB DATA FROM IC3101 PLL

D3904

ANALOG PBRF FROM IC3201 Hi8/STD8 PB AMP VC-235

INTELLIGENT ACCESSORY SHOE

7

4 CN1101

SHOE MIC

AUDIO PATH BLOCK DIAGRAM

17D802

7/31/00

32

33

Human Interface Control Structure
Overview
The human interface control is responsible for receiving all inputs that are external to the camcorder and relaying instructions to the circuits that are effected by the command. External inputs come from the reset circuit, remote input, Info Lithium battery interface, Memory Stick interface and Lanc /Digital I/O interface. The HI Control IC will then send commands to the appropriate circuits via its various data busses.

If you receive a complaint that the remote does not work, first check to see if the Commander setting in the ETC section of the menu is not set to OFF. This disables the remote input. If the Commander setting is ON, check for the Sircs signal like the one below at CN1111/18 on the VC board. This signal should be present when you point a remote at the camcorder and press a button. If the signal is present then replace the VC board; if it is not then replace IC3900 Remote Receiver on the MI-37 board.

Reset
Reset occurs when the BH001 Lithium Battery is installed. When power is applied to IC4801 Reset, it outputs an Ever 3.3-volt line to power circuits that always require power. IC4801 Reset also outputs a LOW pulse to IC4803 HI Control. This LOW pulse resets the HI Control IC. Reset will also occur if the CF-72 board is disconnected and reconnected, and every time power is applied if BH001 is dead. If power is being applied to IC4801 Reset and reset is not occurring, replace the VC-235 board.

1v 5ms Sircs Data

Battery Control
All D8 camcorders use the Info Lithium battery system. This system allows the battery and camcorder to communicate to obtain maximum battery life. This is possible because this system uses an extra terminal for two-way data communication. This data is sent from the battery to PR-33 board in the TRV820 only. In all other models the data is sent to the FU board. Eventually, in all models, the signal enters the VC board at CN1113/ 11. This data is input to a dual FET, Q4804, which separates incoming serial data from outgoing serial data. The serial out line of the IB bus is steered to the battery and the serial in line is steered to IC4803 HI Control. If the data from the battery is not being received by IC4803 HI Control, the camcorder will display a blue screen with "For Info Lithium Battery Only" written instead of "Sony InfoLithium System" and then shut OFF. You can check for the signal shown on the next page of text at CN1113/11 (pictured). If there is no signal at all, replace the VC board. If a signal is seen but the unit still shuts OFF, try a different battery. This will most likely fix the problem.

Key Inputs
This unit contains various sets of key inputs. These include the VTR and photo buttons located on FK-10000 switch block, Standby/Mode Switch (SS-10000), the Camera Control Switches on the KP board located in the back near the battery terminals, and the User Control buttons located on the CF-62 board which is behind the LCD door. Typically, problems in this area are the result of bad switches or switch blocks. The key check function of Radar W can be used to check for functioning keys.

Remote Input
IC3900 Remote Receiver on the MI-37 board receives the IR signal from the remote control. This signal is converted to Sircs data and output from IC3900 Remote Receiver to CN5804/15 on the MI-37 board. CN5804/15 is connected by a flex cable to CN1111/18 on the VC board.

VDD FROM VTR/ CAM UNREG VDD CF-XX 1/2 BH001 LI BATTERY IC4801 RESET RESET VDD RESET I/O SYNC BUS

VC-235

8 BIT PARALLEL SI01 DRP IC4501 D8 MECH. CONTROL DRP SI00 VSP MECH DRIVE SI01 VC IC4902 CAMERA ANALOG SI02 CAMERA MECH CAMCORDER BUS CONTROL

KEY INPUTS FROM VARIOUS BOARDS

IC4803 HI CONTROL

CN1111 IC3900 15 18 REMOTE CN5804 RECEIVER MI-XX

SIRCS IN IB BUS LANC OSD BUS IC3302 OSD 16 17 25 26 CN1105 20 21 29 30 CN001 IC4801 LANC
1-4 1-4

CN707 CN705 CN252
7 6 7

BT901 BATTERY TERMINAL

PR-33

CN1113 Q4804 BATTERY 11 SIGNAL CN254
11

IC3603 BBI 65 65 67 69 67 69 CN1104 CN801 PC-XX

(TRV820 FU-XXX ONLY) CN202 CN1103
6 5 4 3 6 5 4 3

CF-72 2/2 CN005 CN5704 PD-118

LANC/ DIGITAL I/O JACK SE-XXX

Q4811+ Q4812 TD RD

IC5701 LCD DRIVE

IC105 DS CONTROL MS I/F

STILL IMAGE BUS

FROM IC104 RS232 ON PC BOARD

HUMAN INTERFACE CONTROL STRUCTURE

14D802 1239

8/1/00

34

35
The table below shows the state of the four lines connected to the CN202 from the Lanc/Digital I/O jack. Use this table to aid in troubleshooting.
Lanc DC CN202/6 Lanc In Jack Lanc Signal /RS232 RD CN202/5 CN202/4 Lanc (RM-95)
1v 5ms Battery Signal

RS232 TD CN202/3

5 volts 0 volts

0 volts 0 volts

Lanc data RS232 data*

RS232 data* RS232 data*

Digital I/O

Lanc/Digital I/O
The Lanc jack now doubles as a Digital I/O port. It still functions as it has in the past as far as Lanc is concerned but when it is connected to a PC with the supplied adapter cable, it can be used to transfer still pictures back and forth between the memory stick and the PC's RS-232C (Serial) port. Switching is done automatically if the camcorder is in Memory mode and the Digital I/O cable is plugged in. This is due to an extra separation on the plug that will cause the Lanc DC line to remain LOW.

* Present only when a program is accessing the memory stick.

When the Lanc cable is plugged in, a data signal like the one shown below is always present.

1v 5ms Lanc Signal

VDD FROM VTR/ CAM UNREG VDD CF-XX 1/2 BH001 LI BATTERY IC4801 RESET RESET VDD RESET I/O SYNC BUS

VC-235

8 BIT PARALLEL SI01 DRP IC4501 D8 MECH. CONTROL DRP SI00 VSP MECH DRIVE SI01 VC IC4902 CAMERA ANALOG SI02 CAMERA MECH CAMCORDER BUS CONTROL

KEY INPUTS FROM VARIOUS BOARDS

IC4803 HI CONTROL

CN1111 IC3900 15 18 REMOTE CN5804 RECEIVER MI-XX

SIRCS IN IB BUS LANC OSD BUS IC3302 OSD 16 17 25 26 CN1105 20 21 29 30 CN001 IC4801 LANC
1-4 1-4

CN707 CN705 CN252
7 6 7

BT901 BATTERY TERMINAL

PR-33

CN1113 Q4804 BATTERY 11 SIGNAL CN254
11

IC3603 BBI 65 65 67 69 67 69 CN1104 CN801 PC-XX

(TRV820 FU-XXX ONLY) CN202 CN1103
6 5 4 3 6 5 4 3

CF-72 2/2 CN005 CN5704 PD-118

LANC/ DIGITAL I/O JACK SE-XXX

Q4811+ Q4812 TD RD

IC5701 LCD DRIVE

IC105 DS CONTROL MS I/F

STILL IMAGE BUS

FROM IC104 RS232 ON PC BOARD

HUMAN INTERFACE CONTROL STRUCTURE

14D802 1239

8/1/00

36

37
When the I/O cable is connected and the camcorder is in Memory mode, the Vision LCD screen will become blue with the words "PC Mode" across the middle. No data will be present until the program used to access the images tries to access the Memory Stick. When data is present it will look like the waveform shown below on both of the RS232 lines.

Display Window OSD
The Display Window LCD is located on the backside of the Vision LCD. It is used to indicate record mode, playback mode, tape counter, self-timer status, tape detect and battery indicator. IC5701 LCD DRIVE on the PD board drives the display. The signals that control the drive arrive through the CF board from the VC board. IC4803 HI Control and IC3302 OSD create these drive signals. Check the pins on the connectors listed in the drawing in the event of a problem. Typically, problems in this area are physical damage to the LCD caused by abuse.

I/O Sync Bus
The I/O Sync bus is used by IC4803 HI Control as a two way communications bus between IC4501 D8Mech Control, IC4902 Camera/Analog Mech Control and IC105 Digital Still Control and IC3603 BBI. These ICs control all of