Sony PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM Super 35 Camera System User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of the Sony PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM Super 35 Camera System. The PXW-FS7M2 is a professional 4K camera system designed for a wide range of video productions, including documentaries, reality television, commercials, and corporate applications. It features a Super 35mm sized sensor, a robust locking E-mount, and an electronic variable ND filter system.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your dealer.

• Sony PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM Super 35 Camera System Body
• Body Cap
• Viewfinder Eyepiece
• Grip Remote Control
• Wireless Adaptor Bracket
• BC-U1 Battery Charger
• BP-U30 Lithium-Ion Battery
• 2 x Power Cords
• USB Cable
• LCD Viewfinder
• Lens Hood
• Sony 120GB G Series XQD Memory Card
• High Quality Dust Cleaner Blower
• SD Card USB Reader
• Memory Card Wallet
• Lens Cleaning Solution
• Blower Brush
• Microfiber Cloth
• Lens Tissue Paper
• 5pc Cotton Swabs
• 3-Piece LCD Screen Protector Kit

3. Camera Components and Controls

Familiarize yourself with the various parts and controls of the PXW-FS7M2 camera system.

3.1 Front View

Figure 3.1: Front view of the camera, highlighting the lens mount and ND filter controls.

The front of the camera features the locking Sony E-mount for attaching compatible lenses. To the left of the mount, you will find controls for the electronic variable ND filter, including a clear filter setting and user-definable presets.

3.2 Top and Side Controls

Figure 3.2: Top-down view of the camera's main control panel.

The top and side panels house the primary operational controls. These include the START/STOP recording button, audio level dials for CH-1 and CH-2, ISO/GAIN, WHT BAL (White Balance), and SHUTTER controls. A status display provides essential shooting information. Navigation buttons (CANCEL/BACK, MENU, THUMBNAIL, SEL/SET) are located for accessing camera settings.

3.3 Memory Card Slots and Grip

Figure 3.3: Side view showing XQD card slots and the grip.

The camera features dual XQD memory card slots for recording footage. The ergonomic grip remote control attaches to the side, providing convenient access to recording start/stop, zoom, and other functions.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation

1. Ensure the camera is powered off.
2. Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the camera.
3. Insert the BP-U30 Lithium-Ion Battery, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
4. To remove, press the battery release button and slide the battery out.

4.2 Memory Card Insertion

1. Open the XQD card slot cover on the side of the camera.
2. Insert the XQD memory card into one of the two available slots with the label facing the correct direction until it clicks.
3. Close the card slot cover securely.
4. To remove, press the card gently to eject it, then pull it out.

4.3 Attaching Viewfinder and Grip

1. Attach the viewfinder eyepiece to the LCD viewfinder.
2. Mount the LCD viewfinder assembly to the camera body using the designated mounting points.
3. Secure the grip remote control to the camera's rosette mount on the side. Adjust its angle for comfortable operation.

4.4 Lens Attachment

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear cap from the lens.
2. Align the white index mark on the lens with the white index mark on the camera's E-mount.
3. Insert the lens into the mount and rotate it clockwise until it locks into place.
4. To remove, press the lens release button on the camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.

4.5 Initial Power On

1. Ensure a charged battery is installed and a memory card is inserted.
2. Flip the POWER switch to the ON position.
3. The camera will boot up, and the LCD viewfinder will display the live image.

5. Basic Operation

5.1 Powering On/Off

Use the POWER switch located on the camera body to turn the camera on or off. Always power off the camera before removing the battery or memory card.

5.2 Recording Video

1. Press the START/STOP button on the camera body or grip to begin recording. The recording indicator will illuminate.
2. Press the START/STOP button again to stop recording.
3. The camera supports DCI 4K (4096 x 2160) and UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) resolutions up to 59.94 frames per second (fps), and HD up to 180 fps.

5.3 Adjusting Exposure

The PXW-FS7M2 offers multiple exposure control options:

• Electronic Variable ND Filter: Use the ND filter dial and presets to adjust light intensity from 2 to 7 stops. This allows for precise depth of field control without changing aperture.
• Shutter Speed: Adjust the shutter speed using the dedicated SHUTTER control to manage motion blur and exposure.
• ISO/Gain: Use the ISO/GAIN control to adjust the camera's sensitivity to light. Higher values increase brightness but may introduce noise.

5.4 Focus Control

The camera supports both auto and manual focus modes:

• Auto Focus (AF): Engage AF for automatic focusing. The camera features Continuous-Servo AF (AF-C) for tracking moving subjects.
• Manual Focus (MF): Switch to MF for precise manual control using the lens focus ring.

5.5 White Balance

Set the white balance using the WHT BAL controls to ensure accurate color reproduction under different lighting conditions. Custom white balance settings are available for precise adjustments.

5.6 Audio Recording

Adjust audio input levels for CH-1 and CH-2 using the dedicated dials. Monitor audio levels via the on-screen display or headphones connected to the camera's audio output.

5.7 Playback

Press the THUMBNAIL button to enter playback mode. Use the navigation controls to browse recorded clips. Press SEL/SET to play a selected clip.

6. Advanced Features

6.1 High Frame Rate (HFR) Shooting

The PXW-FS7M2 can record High Definition (HD) footage at up to 180 frames per second, enabling smooth slow-motion playback. Access HFR settings through the camera's menu system.

6.2 Recording Formats

The camera supports XAVC-I/L, MPEG-2, and XAVC formats, with a maximum data rate of up to 600 Megabits per second (Mb/s). Select the appropriate format based on your project requirements via the menu.

6.3 Color Gamut Support

The camera is compatible with Rec. 709 and BT-2020 color spaces, offering flexibility for various post-production workflows.

7. Connectivity

The PXW-FS7M2 offers several connectivity options:

• USB: For data transfer and connection to a computer.
• Wi-Fi: For wireless control and file transfer (requires compatible accessories or apps).
• HDMI: For video output to external monitors or recorders.

8. Maintenance

8.1 Cleaning the Camera

• Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to clean the camera body.
• For lenses and the LCD screen, use the provided lens cleaning solution, lens tissue paper, and microfiber cloth. Apply solution to the cloth, not directly to the lens or screen.
• Use the dust cleaner blower and blower brush to remove dust from the lens, sensor area (when lens is removed), and other crevices. Avoid touching the sensor directly.
• Use cotton swabs for delicate areas if necessary.

8.2 Battery Care and Storage

• Charge batteries using the BC-U1 Battery Charger.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• For long-term storage, charge batteries to approximately 50% capacity.

8.3 General Storage

When not in use, store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment. Use the body cap and lens caps to protect the sensor and lens elements.

9. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your PXW-FS7M2 camera. For more complex problems, refer to the Sony support website.

9.1 Camera Not Powering On

• Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Verify the power switch is in the ON position.
• If using an external power supply, ensure it is properly connected and functioning.

9.2 Recording Issues

• Check if an XQD memory card is inserted and has sufficient free space.
• Ensure the memory card is formatted correctly by the camera.
• Verify that the recording format and resolution settings are compatible with the inserted memory card's speed.

9.3 Focus Problems

• Confirm the lens is securely attached and the focus mode (AF/MF) is set appropriately for your shooting scenario.
• In manual focus, ensure the focus ring is being adjusted correctly.
• Clean the lens elements if smudges or dust are present.

9.4 Image Noise or Poor Quality

• Check the ISO/Gain setting; high ISO values can introduce noise.
• Ensure proper lighting conditions.
• Verify white balance settings are correct for the ambient light.

10. Specifications

11. Warranty and Support

11.1 Warranty Information

This Sony PXW-FS7M2 XDCAM Super 35 Camera System is a Sony USA Authorized Model and includes a full USA Sony warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package for specific terms and conditions. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

11.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, service, or additional information, please visit the official Sony support website or contact Sony customer service. You can find detailed support resources, FAQs, and contact options at www.sony.com/electronics/support.