Sony DSCW120

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Contents

Sony Cybershot DSCW120 Digital Camera User Manual

Model: DSCW120

Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Sony Cybershot DSCW120 digital camera. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the camera and retain it for future reference. The Sony Cybershot DSCW120 is a 7.2-megapixel digital camera featuring a Carl Zeiss 4x optical zoom lens and Super Steady Shot image stabilization, designed for capturing high-quality still images and video.

Safety Information

  • Battery Safety: Use only specified batteries. Do not expose batteries to excessive heat or direct sunlight. Do not attempt to disassemble, crush, or incinerate batteries.
  • Water Exposure: This camera is not waterproof. Avoid exposing the camera to rain, moisture, or high humidity.
  • Handling: Handle the camera with care. Avoid dropping or subjecting it to strong impacts.
  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. For the lens, use a lens cleaning cloth and solution specifically designed for camera lenses.
  • Operating Temperature: Operate the camera within the recommended temperature range specified in the specifications.

What's in the Box

Upon opening the package, ensure all items are present:

  • Sony Cybershot DSCW120 Digital Camera Body
  • Accessories (e.g., USB cable, wrist strap, software CD, instruction manual)
  • Note: Batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.

Setup

1. Installing the Battery

The Sony Cybershot DSCW120 uses a rechargeable InfoLITHIUM G-type battery. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.

  1. Locate the battery/memory card compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.
  2. Slide the cover release latch to open the compartment.
  3. Insert the battery with the correct orientation, matching the arrow on the battery to the indicator inside the compartment. Push until it clicks into place.
  4. Close the compartment cover securely until it latches.
Bottom view of Sony Cybershot DSCW120 camera showing the open battery and Memory Stick Pro Duo compartment.

Image: Bottom view of the camera with the battery/memory card compartment open.

2. Installing a Memory Card

The camera supports Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick PRO Duo media. A minimum of 15 MB internal memory is also available.

  1. Open the battery/memory card compartment cover as described above.
  2. Insert the Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo into the memory card slot with the correct orientation until it clicks.
  3. Close the compartment cover securely.

3. Initial Power On

After installing the battery and memory card:

  1. Press the POWER button located on the top of the camera.
  2. The camera will power on, and the LCD screen will display the shooting mode.
  3. If prompted, set the date and time using the camera's control buttons.
Top view of Sony Cybershot DSCW120 camera showing the illuminated power button.

Image: Top view of the camera with the power button illuminated.

Operating the Camera

1. Taking Still Pictures

The DSCW120 offers various shooting modes for different scenarios.

  1. Select a Shooting Mode: Rotate the mode dial on the back of the camera to select your desired mode (e.g., Auto, Program Auto, Scene Selection). Available scene modes include Beach, Fireworks, High sensitivity, Landscape, Smile shutter, Snow, Soft snap, Twilight mode, Twilight portrait.
  2. Frame Your Shot: Use the LCD monitor or the optical viewfinder to compose your image.
  3. Focus: Press the shutter button halfway down to activate autofocus. The camera will beep and focus indicators will appear.
  4. Capture: Press the shutter button fully down to take the picture.
Rear view of Sony Cybershot DSCW120 camera showing the LCD screen in live view mode with controls.

Image: Rear view of the camera displaying the live view on the LCD screen.

2. Using Zoom

The camera features a 4x optical zoom and a 2x digital zoom.

  • To zoom in, push the zoom lever (W/T) towards T (Telephoto).
  • To zoom out, push the zoom lever towards W (Wide-angle).
  • Optical zoom provides higher quality images than digital zoom.

3. Flash Modes

The built-in flash can be adjusted for different lighting conditions.

  • Press the flash button (usually indicated by a lightning bolt icon) to cycle through modes: Auto, Flash On, Slow Sync, Flash Off, Red Eye Reduction.
  • Select Auto for general use, where the camera decides if flash is needed.
  • Use Red Eye Reduction to minimize red-eye effect in portraits.

4. Recording Videos

The camera can record videos in MP4 format with 480p resolution.

  1. Rotate the mode dial to the movie recording mode (usually indicated by a film camera icon).
  2. Press the shutter button to start recording. Press it again to stop.
  3. Note: Zoom functionality may be limited or unavailable during video recording.

5. Reviewing Images and Videos

To view your captured media:

  1. Press the Playback button (usually indicated by a play icon).
  2. Use the directional buttons to navigate through your photos and videos.
  3. Press the MENU button for options like deleting, protecting, or starting a slideshow.
Rear view of Sony Cybershot DSCW120 camera showing the LCD screen in image playback mode.

Image: Rear view of the camera displaying an image in playback mode on the LCD screen.

6. Transferring Photos to a Computer

You can transfer your media using a USB connection.

  1. Ensure the camera is powered off.
  2. Connect the camera to your computer using the supplied USB cable.
  3. Turn on the camera. It should be recognized as a removable disk or a device by your computer.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts on your computer to import the images and videos.

Maintenance

  • Cleaning the Lens: Use a soft, lint-free lens cloth. For stubborn smudges, use a small amount of lens cleaning fluid applied to the cloth, not directly to the lens.
  • Cleaning the LCD Screen: Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.
  • Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use. Do not leave depleted batteries in the camera for extended periods.
  • Camera Storage: When storing the camera for long periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store in a dry, dust-free environment, ideally with a desiccant to prevent moisture buildup.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible Cause / Solution
Camera does not power on.
  • Ensure the battery is correctly inserted and fully charged.
  • Check if the battery contacts are clean.
Images are blurry.
  • Hold the camera steady when shooting.
  • Ensure the lens is clean.
  • Check if the camera focused correctly before taking the shot.
  • In low light, use flash or a higher ISO setting if available.
"Memory Card Error" message.
  • Reinsert the memory card.
  • Try a different, compatible Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo card.
  • Format the memory card (note: this will erase all data).
Flash does not fire.
  • Check the flash mode setting; ensure it is not set to "Flash Off".
  • The flash may be charging; wait a few seconds.

Specifications

Model NameSony Cybershot DSCW120
Effective Still Resolution7.2 MP
Photo Sensor TechnologyCCD
Optical Zoom4x
Digital Zoom2x
Image StabilizationOptical (Super Steady Shot)
Lens TypeCarl Zeiss Zoom lens
Screen Size2.5 Inches (LCD)
ViewfinderOptical
Supported File FormatJPEG (Stills), MP4 (Video)
Video Resolution480p
Internal Memory15 MB
Compatible Memory MediaMemory Stick Duo / Pro Duo
Connectivity TechnologyUSB
Item Weight5.44 ounces
Flash ModesAutomatic, Red Eye Reduction
Shooting ModesBeach, Fireworks, High sensitivity, Landscape, Smile shutter, Snow, Soft snap, Twilight mode, Twilight portrait

Warranty Information

This product is covered by a limited manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product for specific terms, conditions, and duration. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. Warranty terms may vary by region.

Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Sony customer support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official Sony website:

Sony Support Website

© 2023 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.

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