From: bengt@fires1.uucp (Bengt A. Palsson)
Subject: New Sony TR200 camcorder
Organization: Svenska Popfabriken AB, USA div.
Date: Thu, 5 Nov 1992 15:34:48 GMT

                       SMALLEST HANDYCAM CAMCORDER EVER 

CCD-TR200 is 30 Percent Smaller Than Previous Hi8 Models; Handycam Station
Provides Simple Playback, Battery Charging 

PARK RIDGE, NJ, October 20, 1992 -- Sony today announced its smallest, most
advanced Handycam camcorder ever, offering a range of innovative new features for
unprecedented ease-of- use. Equipped with the Hi8 video system and hifi stereo
for lifelike picture and sound reproduction, the new CCD-TR200 is 30 percent
smaller than previous Hi8 Handycam models. 

It is also the first Sony camcorder to feature Handycam Station, a base unit that
offers easy playback as well as a newly-developed ReadyCharge system for
automatic battery charging. The TR200 is also the first camcorder to take
advantage of lithium ion battery technology. The new battery is 30 percent
smaller than a conventional camcorder battery of the same capacity, and can be
recharged at any time regardless of remaining capacity. 

For fast autofocusing -- the fastest ever from Sony -- the TR200 employs a new
linear focus motor that directly drives the lens without the use of gears. The
result is faster, smoother and quieter autofocusing that consumes less power. 
"With its new levels of convenience in recording, playback and battery handling,
the TR200 will help grow the camcorder market beyond the traditional male, family
market," said the senior vice president/general manager of Sony Consumer Video
Products Company. "Our pioneering use of a lithium ion battery and our new linear
focus motor are perfect examples of Sony's efforts to broaden the camcorder
market by using high technology to provide unprecedented simplicity for
consumers." 

One-Touch Control For Recording Ease-of-Use The TR200 features a newly developed
8:1 variable high speed zoom lens, with a convenient one-finger control that
allows the user to choose zoom speeds ranging from 1.5 to 16 seconds, from
close-up to infinity with a single touch. Focusing accuracy during zooming is
ensured through the use of a new Digital Auto Focus integrated circuit. For
sharp, clear images, the TR200 features a 410,000-pixel precision CCD. Ten-bit
digital camera signal processing minimizes signal loss and provides accurate
focus, exposure and white balance adjustments. Minimum illumination is rated at
3-1ux, providing high quality color reproduction in low light situations. 

Handycam Station: Playback and Recharging Simplicity A breakthrough in playback
convenience is provided by the TR200's Handycam Station, which can be easily
connected to any TV or VCR. For playback, the user simply slides the camcorder
into the Station -- all other connections are made automatically. During
playback, the Handycam Station's built-in ReadyCharge system automatically
recharges the lithium ion battery inside the TR200. The Station can automatically
charge a second optional battery after the battery inside the carncorder is fully
charged. For added convenience, the compact battery charger can be detached for
travel use while the Station remains connected to the TV.

Other convenience features include a supplied wireless travel remote control for
recording, playback and editing. For convenience from any angle, wireless remote
sensors are mounted on the front and rear of the camcorder body. For additional
operational ease, less frequently used functions can be chosen through an
on-screen menu, minimizing the number of buttons on the camcorder. The lens cover
automatically opens when the power switch is turned to "camera" position, and an
auto lock slide control locks camera functions in automatic mode for quick,
simple point-and-shoot operation. Viewfinder displays include a battery/tape
remaining indicator, zoom position and exposure meter, so there's no need to look
away from the action during recording. "The camcorder formats of choice are now
8mm and Hi8 because of their superior video and audio quality and the
ease-of-use offered by products such as our ultra-compact Handycam camcorders,"
said a spokesman. "The feature-packed TR200 goes a step further to enhance the
reputation of 8mm by delivering the most advanced and convenient features of any
carncorder on the market." The CCD-TR200 will be available in November for a
suggested retail price of $1,600.00. 

Handycam, Hi8 and ReadyCharge are registered Trademarks.
-- 
Bengt A. Palsson                         | "There is something out there,
FORD Scientific Research Labs            |  and we want to sink it !"
Internet   : bpalsson@smail.srl.ford.com | - General Bengt Gustafsson, on the
Compuserve : 70541,3431                  |   hunt for subs in Swedish waters.