Sony has made many models of camcorders, first the analog variety with cassette tapes, and now digital, which is the tapeless standard of 2010. The company's TRV99 Handycam analog camcorder, a Hi-8 model, is no longer manufactured, but don't panic if you own one, and it starts malfunctioning. Several troubleshooting tips might get your camcorder working again, without you having to buy a new piece of equipment.
Instructions
1. Turn on your Sony TRV99. If it does not power on, try recharging the battery pack. Also check that the battery pack is properly installed. Lift the viewfinder from the rear and slide the battery pack downward along its mounting grooves until the Batt Release lever clicks in place. If your TRV99 shuts off during operation, chances are you have a dead battery. Plug the battery into its AC power adapter until it is fully charged.
2. If your Sony TRV99 is powering on but is not functioning correctly, eject the cassette tape by sliding the Eject button downward. (The tape won't eject if you need to recharge the battery.) Rewind the tape and try using it again, or remove the tape and try using another one. Press the Start/Stop button while in VTR mode, which is set on the mode knob on the side of the camcorder. See if the tape plays on the camcorder's screen. If so, switch to the Camera mode, and press the Start/Stop button again. Determine if you are recording footage. If not, telephone Sony support at (239) 768-7547.
3. Set the auto-focus mode to Auto, if this function isn't working, or Manual, if your TRV99 isn't letting you focus manually. It may be set incorrectly.
4. Press Menu to display the main menu on the screen. Turn the control dial in the bottom-rear of your camcorder until you have reached Steadyshot. Press Menu again to select it, and then scroll to On to turn it on. Press Menu to set the volume and stereo functions if the sound isn't working correctly. You may have entered the Mono mode, which will lead to recordings not being made in stereo sound.
5. Check the upper-right corner of the display for a self-diagnosis code. If you have a code that starts with an E, you have a problem that requires service by calling (239) 768-7547. If the code starts with C,you may be able to fix the problem. C followed by 21 means condensation is inside your camcorder. Remove the tape and let it sit powered down for at least an hour. C followed by 22 means the video heads are dirty and should be cleaned with a head cleaner, available at most electronics outlets. C followed by a 23 means you have an incorrect battery installed and must switch to a compatible lithium-ion battery. C and then 31 or 32 means you must disconnect AC power and remove the battery and start again.
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