Power Issues
The Sony Hi8 TRV138 can be operated by battery and with the use of an AC adapter. If the camera does not power on, one of two things could be in play. The battery pack could be dead or detached from the camera. If the camera works when the AC adapter is plugged in, then the battery needs to be recharged. If not, then the battery needs to be reseated. To do this, remove the battery then reattach it by firmly lining it up with the leads and snapping it to the lock.
It is also possible that the internal computer is operating in a panic mode. Resolve this by disconnecting all power sources for one minute and reattaching them. This will draw down the internal battery and cause a "soft reset." If that fails, a hard reset is necessary. Using an unfolded paper clip or other narrow, pointed object, press the RESET button. The button will be recessed behind a small hole near the AC adapter input. This will reset all functions and settings of the camera.
Sony recommends that the TRV138 and all of its cameras be operated on a fully charged battery.
Viewfinder/LCD issues
The viewfinder of the TRV138 can only be operated when the LCD window is closed. If the window is open, the viewfinder cannot be used. If the window is closed and the viewfinder is blurry, adjust the focus with the dial underneath the viewfinder.
If the LCD screen is displaying an unknown picture, the camera is in DEMO mode. The TRV138 will slip into DEMO mode when it has been set to CAMERA for more than 10 minutes without loading a cassette. Once a tape is loaded, the DEMO mode will go away.
Recording issues
If the camera does not start recording when pressing the record, it is likely that the tape has reached the end. Either rewind or replace the tape. If during recording the auto focus is not working, it has likely been turned off and needs to be reactivated. Color issues are usually attributed to the use of NightShot plus setting or operation in an area with high levels of fluorescent, sodium or mercury light. The first can be changed by pressing the auto focus button. The latter can only be remedied by adjusting the light source or recording location.
Tags: DEMO mode, auto focus, battery needs, camera does, then battery