Sony Support

Article ID : 00271898 / Last Modified : 17/11/2021Print

How to use a camcorder as a webcam using USB Streaming

    IMPORTANT: This article applies only to specific products and/or operating systems. Check Applicable Products and Categories for details.

    This article explains how you can use certain Sony camcorders as a webcam using USB Streaming.

    What is USB Streaming?

    USB Streaming is a feature found on some Sony camcorders that allows live video and audio to be transferred to a computer using a USB cable connection. This feature is especially useful when using a camcorder as a webcam for video conferencing.

    Before you start

    • Not all camcorders are equipped with a USB Streaming port. For compatibility information or details on any of the steps below, refer to the instruction manual of your camcorder. Manuals are posted on the support website.
    • 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 (e.g. Microsoft NetMeeting).

    How to set up live streaming

    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.