the special cable that comes with the camera to hook up to tvs got left at home, and I was really hoping to view some stuff on the 50" HD tv at the inlaws. am I right to assume I have to special order that cable, and I cant just swing by a best buy and pick one up?

seeing how the cable that came with my Sony SR11 does not work on my EX3... I am guessing it's special.

the one I have from HC9 works on EX1

My friend's cable from his old Sony is the same... sorry I don't know the model of his camera.

Just guessing here,
But I reckon it should be a standard connection.

Not guessing here,
Try disabling the HDV(firewire) port,
if it is enabled, the component out will not work.

Amazon.com: Sony VMC15FS A/V Cable for most Sony MiniDV & DVD Camcorders: Camera & Photo (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-VMC15FS-Cable-MiniDV-Camcorders/dp/B00009RUFZ)
Pick up the cable at your local Sony Shop.
It is available at local Sony Store near me.
But very pricey:
$40 Can.

thanks for the replies, everyone.

I am home now, so I have my cable again, but its good to know I can most likely find a store that will carry one, in case I lose it.