How to Troubleshoot a Sony Handycam Camcorder

By Chyrene Pendleton

Updated February 10, 2017

Sony created the compact Handycam camcorder with touch-screen LCD to make effortless recordings for almost any occasion. Like any complex piece of electronic equipment, camcorders can sometimes stop working correctly. Troubleshooting your Sony Handycam camcorder should help you fix any errors or problems without having to send the device away for service or repair.

Attach a charged battery pack to the Sony Handycam if it won't power on. Turn the power switch counterclockwise to the Off position, then slide the battery pack up, underneath the eyecup, until you hear it click into place. Turn the power switch clockwise to the On position. Use only the recommended lithium battery pack for the Sony Handycam.

Wait a few seconds after turning on your camcorder if it will not operate after you turn it on -- this is normal. If your Sony Handycam still won't operate while in the "On" position, remove the battery pack or unplug the AC adapter from the electrical wall outlet, wait one minute, then reconnect the AC adapter or reattach the battery pack.

Press the Reset button with a sharp object, such as a ballpoint pen, if your camcorder continues not to function. Locate the Reset button by opening the LCD screen, then looking inside the camcorder just to the lower right of the LCD screen.

Close the LCD panel if you don't see an image in the viewfinder. The viewfinder will not display an image with the LCD panel open. Pull out the viewfinder, located directly above the battery pack, and adjust the lens until you get a clear image by moving the adjustment lever up or down on the left side of the viewfinder.

Turn your camcorder off if the recording stops abruptly. This means the camcorder is too hot or has been affected by condensation. Moisture condensation can occur when you take the camcorder from a warm place to a cold area or vice versa, causing moisture to appear inside the camcorder. Place the device in a cool, dry location for about one hour.

Open the LCD screen and turn up the volume, if necessary, if you do not hear a sound during playback of your recording or if you hear a low sound. A closed LCD screen cuts off sound output.

Tips

Clean the exterior of the Sony Handycam by disconnecting the unit from the wall outlet, and using only a cloth dampened with water. Do not use spray or liquid cleaners, since these cleaners can damage the exterior.

The reset procedure wipes all custom settings.

Warnings

Do not let your Sony Handycam get wet, whether you have it at the beach or out on a rainy day. The camcorder may malfunction if it gets wet.

Do not use the camcorder in any extremely hot, humid or cold location. For example, leaving the camcorder inside your car while it's parked in the sun may cause permanent damage.

×