SONY HDCAM-SR SRW5800 Manual

The SONY HDCAM-SR SRW5800 is a high-definition digital videocassette recorder designed for professional broadcast and production environments. It supports HDCAM-SR and HDCAM formats, features 4:4:4 RGB and 4:2:2 component recording, 12-channel digital audio, extensive input/output interfaces including HD-SDI and analog component, and advanced editing capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Recording and Playback 8. Menu Configuration 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: HDCAM-SR/HDCAM format support, 12-bit A/D and D/A conversion, 12-channel AES/EBU audio, HD-SDI input/output, analog component I/O, RS-422A remote control, built-in test signal generator, and front panel LCD display.

FeatureDescription
Recording FormatHDCAM-SR (4:4:4/4:2:2), HDCAM
Video Signal1080/59.94i, 1080/50i, 1080/23.98PsF, 720/59.94P, 720/50P
Audio Channels12 channels (AES/EBU), 48 kHz/24-bit
Input/OutputHD-SDI x4, analog component, composite, AES/EBU, analog audio
Remote ControlRS-422A 9-pin interface
MonitoringHD-SDI monitor output, analog composite output
Power RequirementsAC 100-240V, 50/60Hz
DimensionsStandard 19-inch rack mount (approx. 5U height)
WeightApprox. 25 kg (55.1 lbs)
Operating Temperature5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure proper rack space and ventilation.

  1. Rack mounting: Use provided brackets and screws to secure in 19-inch rack.
  2. Connect power: Use supplied AC power cord to appropriate outlet.
  3. Connect video sources: Use HD-SDI or analog component cables as needed.
  4. Connect audio: Use AES/EBU or analog XLR cables for audio input/output.
  5. Connect control: Attach RS-422A cable for remote control operation.

WARNING! Unit is heavy; use two people for installation. Ensure proper grounding and ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; initialize system settings.

  1. System reset: Hold SETUP button during power-on to restore factory defaults.
  2. Format selection: In SYSTEM menu, choose HDCAM-SR or HDCAM recording format.
  3. Video standard: Set to 1080i, 720p, or other supported standard.
  4. Audio configuration: Assign audio channels and set reference levels.
  5. Time code: Set time code generator to free run or record run.

CAUTION! Allow unit to reach operating temperature before critical recording.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front panel: POWER, EJECT, PLAY, STOP, REC, FF, REW, PAUSE, SHUTTLE/JOG dial, LCD display, menu navigation buttons.

Remote Control: Full transport control, numeric entry, menu access, assignable function buttons.

Menu System: SYSTEM (format, reference, setup), AUDIO (channel assign, level, phase), VIDEO (setup, test signal, calibration), MAINTENANCE (head cleaning, diagnostics, log). Settings: Recording mode (SR/HD), audio reference level (+4/+24 dBu), time code preset, user bits, remote protocol selection.

Connecting Devices

Video: HD-SDI inputs 1-4, analog component Y/Pb/Pr. Audio: AES/EBU inputs 1-6 (12 channels), analog XLR. Control: RS-422A for edit controller.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
  2. Use 75-ohm coaxial cables for HD-SDI connections.
  3. Terminate unused outputs with 75-ohm terminators.
  4. Set input selection via INPUT button or menu.

Tip: Use high-quality cables and maintain proper cable lengths for signal integrity.

Recording and Playback

Supports HDCAM-SR and HDCAM tape playback/recording.

  1. Insert tape: Press EJECT, insert cassette label side out.
  2. Record: Press REC and PLAY simultaneously; use REC INHIBIT switch on tape.
  3. Playback: Press PLAY; use SHUTTLE for variable speed, JOG for frame-by-frame.
  4. Edit: Use RS-422A interface with edit controller for insert/assemble edits.
  5. Audio dub: Enable in menu for channel-specific audio recording.
  6. Time code: Display and regenerate via TIME CODE menu.
  7. Slow motion: Available in playback with variable speed control.
  8. Preroll: Set in menu for stable edit points.

WARNING! Do not expose tapes to magnetic fields. Store in proper environment.

Menu Configuration

System Menu: Format selection, reference signal, interface setup. Audio Menu: Channel assignment, level adjustment, phase control, delay settings. Video Menu: Setup level, colorimetry, test signal output, calibration. Maintenance Menu: Head cleaning, error log, system diagnostics, firmware update.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning of tape path and heads. Use Sony-approved cleaning cassette as needed.

CAUTION! Power off before cleaning. Use only Sony-approved supplies. Avoid static discharge.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for commercial use. CE marked for European compliance. Copyright © Sony Corporation. For support, visit pro.sony.com or contact Sony Professional Solutions at 1-800-686-7669.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower cord/outletCheck power connection; verify outlet function; check circuit breaker.
Tape not loadingTape damage/mechanismEject and inspect tape; clean tape path; check for obstructions.
No video outputCables/settingsVerify cable connections; check input selection; confirm format compatibility.
Audio distortionLevels/connectionsAdjust audio reference levels; check XLR connections; verify sample rate.
Time code errorsGenerator/batteryCheck time code generator setting; replace internal battery if needed.
Dropouts in playbackDirty heads/tapeClean video heads; use high-quality tape; inspect tape for damage.

Reset: SYSTEM menu > Initialize > Factory Reset (requires password).

Service: 1-800-686-7669; pro.sony.com

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