Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera

Instruction Manual

Getting Started

E-mount

NEX-7

4-299-175-12(1)

©2011 Sony Corporation Printed in Thailand

Checking the supplied items

The accessories supplied differ depending on the model. The number in parentheses indicates the number of pieces.

• Camera (1)

• Battery charger BC-VW1 (1)

• Power cord (mains lead) (1) (not supplied in the U.S.A. and Canada)

• Rechargeable battery pack NP-FW50 (1)

• USB cable (1)

• Shoulder strap (1)

• Eyepiece cup (1)

• Body cap (1) (attached to the camera)

• Accessory shoe cap (1) (attached to the camera)

• Cleaning Cloth (1)

• CD-ROM (1)

– Application Software for

α camera

–

α Handbook

• Instruction Manual (Getting Started: This manual) (1)

• Instruction Manual (Operations) (1)

NEX-7K only

• E18 – 55 mm zoom lens (1)/Front lens cap (1)/Rear lens cap (1) (The caps are attached to the lens.)

• Lens hood (1)

Attaching the shoulder strap is recommended not to drop the camera.

Charging the battery pack

When using the camera for the first time, be sure to charge the NP-FW50

“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (supplied).

The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack can be charged even when it has not been fully depleted. It can also be used when it has not been fully charged.

1

Insert the battery pack onto the battery charger, and charge it.

• The CHARGE lamp turns off when charging is finished.

For the U.S.A and Canada

Estimated charging time

250 minutes

CHARGE lamp

For countries/regions other than the U.S.A. and Canada

CHARGE lamp

Power cord (mains lead)

Notes

• The charging time differs depending on the remaining capacity of the battery pack or charging conditions. The above charging time is when charging a fully depleted battery pack at a temperature of 25 °C (77 °F).

• We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of between

10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F) to efficiently charge the battery pack.

• Connect the battery charger to the nearest wall outlet (wall socket).

• A charged battery discharges little by little even though you do not use your camera.

Charge the battery before using the camera to avoid missing an opportunity to shoot.

Inserting the charged battery pack

1

Open the cover, and insert the battery pack.

• Insert the battery pack while pressing the lock lever with the tip of the battery.

2

Close the cover.

x

Removing the battery pack

Turn off the camera, make sure that the access lamp is not lit, slide the lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and pull out the battery pack.

Lock lever

Lock lever Access lamp

Inserting a memory card (sold separately)

1

Insert a memory card with the direction as illustrated here.

• Insert the memory card until it clicks as illustrated.

Check on the direction of the notched corner.

x

Memory cards that you can use

You can use following types of memory cards with this camera. However, proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all types of the memory cards.

Movie Usable memory card Still image

“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media

“Memory Stick PRO-HG

Duo” media

SD memory card

SDHC memory card

SDXC memory card

You cannot use MultiMediaCard.

(Mark2)

Term in this manual

“Memory Stick

PRO Duo” media

(Class 4 or more) SD card

(Class 4 or more)

(Class 4 or more) x

Removing the memory card

Open the cover, make sure that the access lamp is not lit, and push the memory card once.

• When the access lamp is lit, do not remove the memory card or the battery pack, or turn off the power. The data may be corrupted.

Attaching/removing the lens

Set the power switch of the camera to OFF before you attach or remove the lens.

1

Mount the lens by aligning the white index marks on the lens and the camera.

• Hold the camera’s face downward to prevent the dust from entering into the camera.

White index marks

2

While pushing the lens lightly toward the camera, turn the lens clockwise until it clicks into the locked position.

Notes

• When attaching a lens, do not press the lens release button.

• Do not use force when attaching a lens.

• The Mount Adaptor (sold separately) is required to use an A-mount lens (sold separately). For details, refer to the operating manual supplied with the Mount

Adaptor.

x

Removing the lens

1

Press the lens release button all the way in and turn the lens counterclockwise until it stops.

Lens release button

Notes

• When changing the lens, if dust or debris gets inside the camera and adheres to the surface of the image sensor (the part that acts as the film), it may appear as dark spots on the image, depending on the shooting environment. The camera vibrates slightly when it is turned off, due to the anti-dust function, to prevent dust from adhering to the image sensor. However, attach or remove the lens quickly somewhere away from dusty locations.

Setting up the date

When you turn on the camera for the first time, the screen to set date and time appears.

1

Set the power switch to ON to turn on the camera.

The screen to set date and time appears.

2

Press the center of the control wheel to confirm [OK].

3

Select your area by pressing the right or left of the control wheel and press the center.

4

Press the left or right of the control wheel to select each item, and press the top or bottom, or turn it to select the numeric value.

• Midnight is indicated as 12:00 AM, and noon as 12:00 PM.

5

When you have set all items, press the center of the control wheel.

Adjusting the viewfinder (diopter adjustment)

Adjust the viewfinder so that you can see the screen displays clearly.

1

Turn the diopter-adjustment dial.

Attaching/removing the eyepiece cup

It is recommended that you attach the eyepiece cup when you intend to use the viewfinder.

1

Align the top of the eyepiece cup with the viewfinder, and snap it onto the bottom of the viewfinder.

• To remove the eyepiece cup, push on the sides and pull the eyepiece cup off the viewfinder.

Note

• Remove the eyepiece cup when you attach an accessory (sold separately) to the accessory shoe.

Installing the software

To utilize images recorded with the camera, the following software is provided:

• “Image Data Converter”

You can edit RAW images, etc.

• “PMB” (Picture Motion Browser) (Windows only)

You can import images to the computer, edit them, such as displaying them on a calender.

Note

• If “PMB” has already been installed on the computer, and the version number of the previously installed “PMB” is lower than that of the “PMB” on the CD-ROM

(supplied), install “PMB” also from the CD-ROM (supplied).

x

Windows

The following computer environment is recommended when using the supplied software and importing images via a USB connection.

OS (pre-installed) Microsoft Windows XP* SP3/Windows Vista** SP2/

Windows 7 SP1

“PMB” CPU: Intel Pentium III 800 MHz or faster

(For playing/editing the HD movies: Intel Core Duo

1.66 GHz or faster, Intel Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or faster,

Intel Core 2 Duo 2.26 GHz or faster (HD FX/HD FH), Intel

Core 2 Duo 2.40 GHz or faster (HD PS))

Memory: 512 MB or more (For playing/editing the HD movies: 1 GB or more)

Hard Disk: Disk space required for installation— approximately 500 MB

Display: Screen resolution—1024 × 768 dots or more

“Image Data

Converter Ver.4”

CPU/Memory: Pentium 4 or faster/1 GB or more

Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more

* 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported.

Windows Image Mastering

API (IMAPI) Ver. 2.0 or later is required to use the function for creating discs.

** Starter (Edition) is not supported.

1

Insert the CD-ROM (supplied) into the CD-ROM drive, and install the software following the instructions on the screen.

x

Macintosh

The following computer environment is recommended when using the supplied software and importing images via a USB connection.

OS (pre-installed) USB Connection: Mac OS X (v10.3 to v10.6)

“Image Data Converter Ver.4”: Mac OS X v10.5/

Mac OS X v10.6 (Snow Leopard)

“Image Data

Converter Ver.4”

CPU: Intel processors, such as Intel Core Solo/Core Duo/

Core 2 Duo

Memory: 1 GB or more is recommended.

Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more

1

Insert the CD-ROM (supplied) into the CD-ROM drive, and double-click the CD-ROM icon.

2

Copy the [IDC_INST.pkg] file in the [MAC] folder to the hard disk icon.

3

Double-click the [IDC_INST.pkg] file in the copy-to folder.

• Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

Precautions

The Cleaning Cloth

Remove large specks of dirt from the Cleaning Cloth before using it.

On the functions available with the camera

You may feel uncomfortable symptoms such as eyestrain, nausea, or a tired feeling while watching 3D images recorded with the camera on 3D compatible monitors. When you watch 3D images, we recommend that you take a break at regular time intervals. Since the need for or frequency of break times varies between individuals, please set your own standards. If you feel sick, stop watching 3D images, and consult a doctor as needed. Also, refer to the operating instructions of the connected device or the software used with the camera. A child's vision is always vulnerable (especially for children under six years of age). Before allowing them to watch 3D images, please consult with an expert, such as a pediatric or ophthalmic doctor. Make sure your children follow the precautions above.

On the LCD monitor and lens

• The LCD monitor is manufactured using extremely high-precision technology so over 99.99 % of the pixels are operational for effective use.

However, there may be some tiny black points and/or bright points (white, red, blue or green in color) that constantly appear on the LCD monitor. These points are normal in the manufacturing process and do not affect the images in any way.

• A magnet is attached to the back of the LCD monitor. Do not put objects that are affected by magnetic fields, such as a floppy disk or a credit card, between the LCD monitor and the camera body.

Magnet

• Images may trail across on the LCD monitor in a cold location. This is not a malfunction. When turning on the camera in a cold location, the LCD monitor may become temporarily dark.

• Do not expose the camera to direct sunlight. If sunlight is focused on a nearby object, it may cause a fire. When you must place the camera under direct sunlight, attach the front lens cap.

On using the lenses and accessories

It is recommended that you use Sony lenses/accessories designed to suit the characteristics of this camera. Using the products of other manufacturers may cause the camera not to operate to its capability, or result in accidents and malfunctions of the camera.

Do not use/store the camera in the following places

• In an extremely hot, dry or humid place

In places such as in a car parked in the sun, the camera body may become deformed and this may cause a malfunction.

• Storing under direct sunlight or near a heater

The camera body may become discolored or deformed, and this may cause a malfunction.

• In a location subject to rocking vibration

• Near strong magnetic place

• In sandy or dusty places

Be careful not to let sand or dust get into the camera. This may cause the camera to malfunction, and in some cases this malfunction cannot be repaired.

On the temperature of the camera

Your camera and battery may get hot due to continuous use, but it is not a malfunction.

On moisture condensation

If the camera is brought directly from a cold to a warm location, moisture may condense inside or outside the camera. This moisture condensation may cause a malfunction of the camera.

How to prevent moisture condensation

When bringing the camera from a cold place to a warm place, seal the camera in a plastic bag and allow it to adapt to conditions at the new location over about an hour.

If moisture condensation occurs

Turn off the camera and wait about an hour for the moisture to evaporate. Note that if you attempt to shoot with moisture remaining inside the lens, you will be unable to record clear images.

On the internal rechargeable battery

This camera has an internal rechargeable battery for maintaining the date and time and other settings regardless of whether the power is on or off, or the battery is installed or not. This rechargeable battery is continually charged as long as you are using the camera. However, if you use the camera for only short periods, it discharges gradually, and if you do not use the camera at all for about 3 months it becomes completely discharged. In this case, be sure to charge this rechargeable battery before using the camera. However, even if this rechargeable battery is not charged, you can still use the camera as long as you do not record the date and time. If the camera resets the settings to the defaults each time you charge the battery, the internal rechargeable battery may be dead. Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service facility.

Charging method of the internal rechargeable battery

Insert a charged battery pack into the camera, or connect the camera to a wall outlet (wall socket) using the AC Adaptor (sold separately), and leave the camera for 24 hours or more with the power off.

On recording/playback

• When you use a memory card with this camera for the first time, it is recommended that you format the card using the camera for stable performance of the memory card before shooting. Note that formatting permanently erases all data on the memory card, and is unrecoverable. Save precious data on a computer, etc.

• If you repeatedly record/delete images, fragmentation of data may occur on the memory card. Movies may not be able to be saved or recorded. In such a case, save your images to a computer or other storage location, then format the memory card.

• The recorded contents cannot be compensated for even if recording or playback is not possible due to a malfunction of the camera or memory card, etc.

• To avoid the potential risk of data loss, always copy (back up) data to other medium.

• Before you record one-time events, make a trial recording to make sure that the camera is working correctly.

• This camera is neither dust-proof, nor splash-proof, nor water-proof.

• Do not aim the camera at the sun or other bright light. It may cause the malfunction of the camera.

• Do not look at the sun or a strong light through a removed lens. This may cause irrecoverable damage to your eyes. Or it may cause a malfunction of the lens.

• Do not use the camera near a location that generates strong radio waves or emits radiation. The camera may not be able to record or play back properly.

• Using the camera in sandy or dusty locations may cause malfunctions.

• Do not shake or strike the camera. In addition to malfunctions and an inability to record images, this may render the memory card unusable, or cause image data breakdown, damage or loss.

• Clean the flash surface with a soft cloth. The heat of flash emission may cause dirt to adhere on the flash surface, resulting in smoking or scorching.

• Keep the camera, supplied accessories, etc., out of the reach of children. A memory card, etc., may be swallowed. If such problem occurs, consult a doctor immediately.

Warning on copyright

Television programs, films, videotapes, and other materials may be copyrighted. Unauthorized recording of such materials may be contrary to the provisions of the copyright laws.

On the data specifications described in this manual

The data on performance and specifications is defined under the following conditions, except as described in this manual: at an ordinary ambient temperature of 25ºC (77°F), and using a battery pack that is charged for an hour after the CHARGE lamp goes out.

•

Trademarks

is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

• “Memory Stick,”

Stick Duo,”

, “Memory Stick PRO,”

, “Memory Stick PRO Duo,”

, “Memory

, “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo,”

, “Memory Stick Micro,” “MagicGate,” and

are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

• “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

• “PhotoTV HD” is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

• DVDirect is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

• Blu-ray Disc™ and Blu-ray™ are trademarks of the Blu-ray Disc Association.

• “AVCHD Progressive” and “AVCHD Progressive” logotype are trademarks of

Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.

• Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

• Microsoft, Windows, and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

• HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

• Macintosh and Mac OS are trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

• PowerPC is a registered trademark of IBM Corporation in the United States.

• Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel

Corporation.

• SDXC logo is trademarks of SD-3C, LLC.

• Eye-Fi is a trademark of Eye-Fi Inc.

• MultiMediaCard is a trademark of MultiMediaCard Association.

• “ ” and “PlayStation” are registered trademarks of Sony Computer

Entertainment Inc.

• Adobe is a registered trademark or a trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.

• In addition, system and product names used in this manual are, in general, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective developers or manufacturers. However, the ™ or ® marks are not used in all cases in this manual.

• Add further enjoyment with your PlayStation 3 by downloading the application for PlayStation 3 from PlayStation Store (where available.)

• The application for PlayStation 3 requires PlayStation Network account and application download. Accessible in areas where the PlayStation Store is available.

Owner’s Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product.

Model No. NEX-7

Serial No. _____________________________

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

-SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

DANGER

-TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR

ELECTRIC SHOCK, CAREFULLY FOLLOW

THESE INSTRUCTIONS

If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the proper configuration for the power outlet.

CAUTION

[ Battery pack

If the battery pack is mishandled, the battery pack can burst, cause a fire or even chemical burns. Observe the following cautions.

• Do not disassemble.

• Do not crush and do not expose the battery pack to any shock or force such as hammering, dropping or stepping on it.

• Do not short circuit and do not allow metal objects to come into contact with the battery terminals.

• Do not expose to high temperature above 60°C (140°F) such as in direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun.

• Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire.

• Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries.

• Be sure to charge the battery pack using a genuine Sony battery charger or a device that can charge the battery pack.

• Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small children.

• Keep the battery pack dry.

• Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by Sony.

• Dispose of used battery packs promptly as described in the instructions.

[ Battery charger

Even if the CHARGE lamp is not lit, the battery charger is not disconnected from the AC power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket). If some trouble occurs while using the battery charger, immediately shut off the power by disconnecting the plug from the wall outlet (wall socket).

The power cord (mains lead), if supplied, is designed specifically for use with this camera only, and should not be used with other electrical equipment.

For Customers in the U.S.A. and Canada

[ RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable.

You can help preserve our environment by returning your used rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest you.

For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries, call toll free

1-800-822-8837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.

[ Battery pack and lens

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

For Customers in the U.S.A.

UL is an internationally recognized safety organization.

The UL Mark on the product means it has been UL Listed.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call:

Sony Customer Information Center

1-800-222-SONY (7669)

The number below is for the FCC related matters only.

[ Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY

Model No.: NEX-7

Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.

Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A.

Telephone No.: 858-942-2230

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

[ CAUTION

You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

[ Note:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

For Customers in Europe

[ Notice for the customers in the countries applying EU Directives

The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku Tokyo,

108-0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for EMC and product safety is Sony

Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For any service or guarantee matters please refer to the addresses given in separate service or guarantee documents.

This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC

Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

[ Attention

The electromagnetic fields at the specific frequencies may influence the picture and sound of this unit.

[ Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail), restart the application or disconnect and connect the communication cable (USB, etc.) again.

[ Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

[ Disposal of waste batteries (applicable in the European Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the battery or on the packaging indicates that the battery provided with this product shall not be treated as household waste.

On certain batteries this symbol might be used in combination with a chemical symbol. The chemical symbols for mercury (Hg) or lead (Pb) are added if the battery contains more than 0.0005% mercury or 0.004% lead.

By ensuring these batteries are disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potentially negative consequences for the environment and human health which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of the battery. The recycling of the materials will help to conserve natural resources.

In case of products that for safety, performance or data integrity reasons require a permanent connection with an incorporated battery, this battery should be replaced by qualified service staff only. To ensure that the battery will be treated properly, hand over the product at end-of-life to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment.

For all other batteries, please view the section on how to remove the battery from the product safely.

Hand the battery over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of waste batteries.

For more detailed information about recycling of this product or battery, please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

Notice for customers in the United Kingdom

A moulded plug complying with BS 1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and convenience.

Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the supplied one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS 1362, (i.e., marked with an or mark) must be used.

If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.