Can I use my Handycam as a webcam?

Article ID : 00179752 / Last Modified : 21/10/2021

IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check the Applicable Products and Categories section of this article before starting these steps.

Certain legacy camcorders may support webcam operation (live streaming) through the composite, component, or S-Video connections.

Before you start

You will need the following items to setup live streaming.

Steps to setup live streaming

1. Plug the AC power adapter for the camcorder into a working electrical outlet and then connect it to the camcorder.
2. Connect a composite, component, or S-Video cable to the VIDEO or S-VIDEO jack on the camcorder.

   Notes:

   • Sony camcorders usually come packaged with composite Audio/Video cables; S-Video cables are sold separately.
   • To purchase either of these cables, check with your local electronics dealer or visit Sony Parts and Accessories Sales.

3. Connect the other end of the composite, component, or S-Video cable to the VIDEO IN or S-VIDEO IN jack on the computer or the video capture device.
4. If using a video capture device, connect the video capture device to the computer using the USB cable.
5. Remove the cassette tape from the camcorder.
6. Turn on the camera by moving the POWER switch to the CAMERA position.
7. Open the video/audio settings of the capture/streaming software on your computer.
8. The software should recognize the video capture device and therefore your camcorder as a webcam.
9. You should then see the live stream from the camera on your computer.

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Article ID : 00270606 / Last Modified : 10/29/2021

Follow these steps to use a Sony camcorder as a webcam using USB Streaming.

IMPORTANT:

• Not all Sony camcorders are equipped with a USB Streaming port. For compatibility information, or if you require further assistance with any of the steps below, consult the instruction manual of your camcorder. Manuals are posted on your model support page.
• The USB Streaming driver is not compatible with the Apple Mac OS operating system.
• The computer should have a factory installed USB port and compatible webcam software, such as Microsoft NetMeeting.

Note: This procedure cannot be performed when using the battery of the camcorder as a power source. If the camcorder is turned on, but not recording or playing a tape, it will automatically turn off after 5 minutes to conserve battery power. In addition, please be advised that this procedure may not work for all Sony camcorder models even when using the AC power adapter. Some models have an automatic demonstration mode that will activate after 5 minutes if the camera is turned on but not recording or playing a tape.

1. Install the USB Streaming driver on the computer from the CD provided with the camcorder.
2. Restart the computer.
3. Plug the AC power adapter for the camcorder into a working electrical outlet and then connect it to the camcorder.
4. Connect the supplied USB cable to the camcorder and computer.
5. Turn on the camcorder by moving the POWER switch to the CAMERA position.
6. In the camcorder menu, set the USB STREAMING option to ON.
7. On the computer, start the webcam software.

Note: Contact the software manufacturer for assistance with setting up or using the webcam software.

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Article ID : 00245672 / Last Modified : 15/11/2022

IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check the Applicable Products and Categories section of this article before starting these steps.

Certain camcorders will support webcam operation (live streaming) through the HDMI port. Manuals are posted on your model support page.

Note: For select cameras, the USB streaming feature is available and offers enhanced live-stream video and audio capabilities. Check your operation manuals to verify compatibility. If USB streaming is not available on your camera, consider using the USB port with Imaging Edge Webcam software or an HDMI connection.

The following example shows how to connect a camera equipped with an HDMI port to a computer for use as a webcam.

Before you start

Items needed to setup live streaming:

• A camcorder that has an Auto Shut Off (A.Shut Off) Power Save option in the menu and an HDMI output port. Check your camcorder's help guide to see if your camcorder has them.
  • Set the Auto Shut Off feature to either Off or Never to prevent it from automatically turning off while live streaming
  • If your camcorder does not have this option, then it may not function for live streaming as the unit may automatically shut down after a short period of time
• HDMI to USB video capture device (third-party product required)
• HDMI cable. The camcorder model and your video capture device will determine the type of HDMI cable needed for connectivity
• USB cable
• A computer with streaming software installed

Notes:

• Sony does make some video capture devices and software
• Make sure that you have an HDMI to USB video capture device and not a USB to HDMI adapter (for an external monitor)

Steps to setup live streaming

1. Connect one end of the HDMI cable to the camcorder HDMI Out port and the other end of the cable to the video capture device HDMI In port.
2. Connect the video capture device to the computer using the USB cable.
3. If the video capture device has a POWER switch, move it to the CAMERA position.
4. Open the video/audio settings of the capture/streaming software on your computer.
5. The software should recognize the video capture device and your camcorder as a webcam.
6. You should then see the live stream from the camcorder on your computer display.

Notes:

• If you use an external microphone, be sure to select the proper device in the audio settings of your computer.
• If the camcorder menu appears on the screen, then turn off the display: Navigate to HDMI Settings → HDMI Info. Display → Off.

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