N Sony notebook user guide PC G-FX800 series
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 1 Read this first Notice © 2002 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved. This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machinereadable form without prior written approval.
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 2 RealPlayer is a trademark or registered trademark of RealNetworks, inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Symantec Norton AntiVirus is a trademark of Symantec Corporation. WinDVD is a trademark or registered trademark of InterVideo Inc. All other names of systems, products and services are trademarks of their respective owners. In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 3 Safety information Owner's record The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number if you contact VAIO-Link.
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 4 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ TV sets Speakers Magnets Magnetic bracelets. Audio/video ❑ Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation. Connectivity ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations.
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 5 Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive). This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in following areas: residential, commercial and light-industrial.
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 6 Disposing of lithium ion batteries Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly. Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 7 Welcome Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO notebook. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing. Here are just some of the features your VAIO notebook has to offer. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast processor, a fast CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive* or DVD-ROM drive* and an internal modem.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 8 Documentation pack Your documentation pack contains printed information as well as online user guides on your computer's hard drive and on the application CD-ROM.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 9 2 Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications. About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system. ❑ Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart Capture. ❑ Managing audio files with SonicStage explains how to convert your existing MP3, WMA and WAV format audio files into ATRAC3 format.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 10 Your notebook and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: 1 main unit 6 weight saver 2 product recovery CD-ROMs 7 video cable 3 documentation pack 8 phone cable 4 AC adapter 9 power cord 5 rechargeable battery pack ✍ If you find an extra phone plug in the box, see Using the correct phone plug (page 58).
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 11 Ergonomic considerations You will be using your notebook as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments: ❑ Positioning your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1).
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 12 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards. Viewing angle of the computer’s display – Use the display’s tilting feature to find the best position.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 13 Using your notebook This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 14 Locating controls and connectors Right 1 power button (page 27) 2 DVD-ROM drive* or CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive* (page 35) 3 multi-purpose bay (page 20) (page 41) * Depending on your model. See the Specifications document for details.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 15 Left 1 TV Out connector (page 69) 4 i.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 16 Front 1 LCD screen (page 33) 2 speakers (page 71) 3 keyboard (page 29) 4 touchpad (page 34) 5 left/right buttons (page 34) 6 power indicators (page 32) 7 battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 32) 8 hard disk drive indicators (page 32) 9 Num Lock indicators (page 32) 10 Caps Lock indicators (page 32) 11 Scroll Lock indicators (page 32)
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 17 Back 1 phone line jack (page 57) 5 monitor(VGA) connector (page 66) 2 USB port (page 73) 6 Ethernet connector (page 78) 3 serial connector / 7 USB port (page 73) 4 printer connector (page 74) 8 DC In connector (page 19) ✍ There is a ventilation slot located near the second USB connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 18 Bottom 1 release lever (page 41) 2 tilt stands (page 11)
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 19 Connecting a power source You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC adapter To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer. Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter. Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet. ✍ Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 20 Using the battery pack You can use one or two batteries as a source of power. You can insert the second battery pack into the multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer. Additional battery packs are available as a separate option. The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase. Inserting the battery pack To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 Open the cover of the battery bay.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 21 Charging the battery pack To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 2 ✍ Connect the AC adapter to the computer. Insert the battery pack. The computer automatically charges the battery (1) (the battery indicator (2) light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85% full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes approximately 2.5 hours if your notebook is on.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 22 The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery does not affect battery life. The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When the battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts flashing.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 23 Removing the battery pack To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Turn off the computer. Open the cover of the battery bay. Pull out the battery pack. 4 Close the cover of the battery bay. ✍ You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer is in Standby mode.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 24 Using the second battery pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time you use your computer with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first, charges first. The battery pack you insert second, charges when the first battery pack is 85 percent full. You can monitor which battery pack is charging by observing the battery indicator lights.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 25 Charging the second battery pack To charge the second battery pack, proceed as follows: Keep the battery pack (1/3) in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator stops flashing when the battery is 85% full.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 26 Removing the second battery pack To remove the second battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 2 Slide the eject lever on the bottom of the weight saver in the direction of arrow 1. Slide the release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2. 3 4 5 Remove the weight saver. Pull out the battery pack. Reinsert the weight saver.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 27 Starting your notebook To start your computer, proceed as follows: 1 Slide the LCD lock lever (1) in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover. 2 Press the power button (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on. 3 If necessary, adjust the brightness on the LCD display. To increase brightness, hold down the key and press repeatedly.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 28 Shutting down your notebook It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data. To shut down your computer, proceed as follows: 5 Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer dialog box appears. Select Turn Off. Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator turns off. Turn off any peripheral connected to your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 29 Using the keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but has additional keys that perform specific notebook-related tasks.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 30 Keys Descriptions Escape key (1) The (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. Function keys (2) The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, is the Help key. The tasks associated with each function key may vary from one application to the other.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 31 Combinations and functions with the Windows® key Combinations Functions + Displays the Windows® Help and Support Center. + Switches the selected button on the taskbar. + Displays My Computer. + Displays the Search Results window to find a file or folder. This is equivalent to selecting Search from the Start menu. + + Displays the Search Results - Computers window where you can locate other computers.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 32 Indicators Indicator Functions Power Power on: lights green. Standby mode: flashes umber. Battery 1 Battery 2 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the left side of the computer. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the right side of the computer. Light On Off Data is read from or written to the hard drive. The hard drive is not being accessed.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 33 Combinations and functions with the key Combinations/ Feature Functions Toggles the built-in speaker on and off. + (F3): speaker switch + (F4): speaker volume + (F5): brightness control + / (F7)*: switch to the external display Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. To increase volume, hold down the key and press repeatedly. To decrease volume, hold down the and keys and press repeatedly.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 34 Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Action Description point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object. click Press the left button (3) once. double-click Press the left button twice. right-click Press the right button (4) once.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 35 Using the CD-RW/DVD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive Depending on your model, your computer is equipped with either a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or a DVD-ROM drive. To insert a disc, proceed as follows: 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Press the eject button (1) to open the drive. The tray slides out. 3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up until the disc clicks into place.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 36 4 ✍ Close the tray by pushing it gently. When the computer is in Standby or Hibernate mode, you cannot insert or remove a disc. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the disc drive hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your disc drive and you may not be able to open the tray. When you finish using a disc, wait until the LED indicator turns off and then press the eject button to remove the disc.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 37 To achieve optimum performance when writing data on a CD-RW disc, follow these recommendations : ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ To make a CD-R’s data readable on a CD-ROM drive, you need to close the session when you eject it. To complete this process, follow the instructions included with your software. Only use circular discs. Do not use discs with any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage the CD-RW drive.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 38 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ When playing DVD movies on battery power, set the power management profile to DVD. With other profiles, the movies can be choppy. Do not switch power saving modes while playing a DVD video. Do not use resident disc utilities or resident utilities to speed up the access of discs, because they may cause the system to become unstable. Make sure that the screensaver is deactivated.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 39 Using the weight saver The weight saver protects the multi-purpose bay when it is empty. To attach the weight saver, proceed as follows: 1 2 If another device is in the multi-purpose bay, remove the device (see (page 41)). Pull out the guide (1) of the weight saver and slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow (2) until it clicks.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 40 To remove the weight saver, proceed as follows: 1 2 Slide the eject lever of the weight saver in the direction of arrow 1. Slide the release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 41 Using the floppy disk drive Your computer is equipped with a floppy disk drive which can be removed. When you are not using it, you can replace it with the bundled weight saver. Removing the floppy disk drive To remove the floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: 1 2 Turn off the computer. Slide the release lever (1) on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the arrow. 3 4 Slide the drive (2) out of the multi-purpose bay.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 42 Inserting the floppy disk drive To insert the floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 Turn off the computer. If the weight saver is in the multipurpose bay (1), remove the device. Insert the floppy disk drive (2) into the multipurpose bay with the metallic part up. Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the release lever locks into place.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 43 Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: 1 2 Hold the disk (1) with the label side facing up. Gently push the disk into the floppy disk drive (2) until it clicks into place.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 44 Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: 1 2 Wait until the LED indicator (1) turns off. Press the eject button (2) to remove the floppy disk. ✍ Do not press the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 45 Using PC Cards This computer has a PC Card slot that supports Type I, II and III PC Cards. PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices. You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC Card. Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card, proceed as follows: 1 Insert the PC Card into one of the PC Card slots with the label facing upwards. 2 Gently push the PC Card slot into the connector.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 46 Use the lower slot for Type III PC Cards. Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer. If an “!” mark appears in the Device Manager dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it. You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card. Do not force a PC Card into the slot.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 47 Removing a PC Card Follow the steps below to remove the PC card while your computer is on. If it is not removed correctly, your system may not work properly. If you want to remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 6. To remove a PC Card, proceed as follows: 1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears. 2 Select the hardware you want to unplug. 3 Click Stop.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 48 Using the Memory Stick™ Your VAIO computer is designed to support the Memory Stick™. The Memory Stick™ is a compact, portable, and versatile device especially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 49 Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The Memory Stick™ is the resulting medium, through which digital devices can be instantly connected. With it, you can download data from any compatible device, then transfer it to another in a single and instant transfer. The main advantages of the Memory Stick™ are its: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Compactness: with dimensions of just 21.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 50 Generic Memory Stick™ The original Memory Stick™, blue in colour, can be used to record image data taken with digital still cameras, etc. or data from the PC. With it, you can record, play back and transfer various kinds of data at any given time. Because it is easy to remove and transport safely, you can use Memory Stick™ anywhere by inserting it into any compatible device to transfer and share the information you have saved.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 51 MagicGate Memory Stick™ The MagicGate Memory Stick™, white in colour, records PC and image data just like its blue counterpart; the difference is it uses the MagicGate copyright protection technology. With this type of Memory Stick™, also called the MG Memory Stick™, you can enjoy the following features: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 32MB, 64MB and 128MB capacity versions. Storage of up to 120 minutes of audio data.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 52 ✍ MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organization working to draw up industry standard specifications in order to protect copyrights of digital music). The logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 53 Association of America (RIAA) took the initiative to organize a forum called Secure Music Digital Initiative (SDMI) to study technology for protecting copyrights during the electronic distribution of music.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 54 ❑ ❑ ❑ Sony mobile phones Digital printers AIBO the Sony Entertainment Robot To find out more about the products available in your country, go to: http://www.sonystyle-europe.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 55 Inserting a Memory Stick™ To insert a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 Once you have stored your data from your digital device, insert the Memory Stick™ (1) into the optional PC Card adapter (2). Push the release button. The release button pops out. Push the release button once again. The PC Card comes out. Pull the PC Card out of the connector.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 56 Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: 1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears. 2 Select the hardware device you want to unplug. 3 Click Stop. 4 In the Stop a Hardware device dialog box, select the device that can be safely removed from the system. 5 Click OK. You get a message saying that it is safe to remove the device. 6 Click Close.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 57 Using the modem Your notebook is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link. To connect a phone line, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the phone line jack on the computer and plug the other end into the wall jack (2).
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 58 Using the correct phone plug If there are two phone plugs in the box, make sure you use the correct one for the country you are in, as follows: UK: The connector can be identified by its cuboid shape and flat pins. Netherlands: The connector can be identified by its protruding pins.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 59 Using power saving modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, you can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 60 Using Hibernate mode The state of the system is saved on the hard disk and power is turned off. The power indicator light is off in this mode. To activate Hibernate mode, proceed as follows: 1 2 Go to Start and click Turn Off Computer. Hold down the key and press Hibernate. To return to Normal mode, press the power button. The computer returns to its previous state.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 61 Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting or using any of these peripherals. Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals. Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables. Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 62 Connecting a port replicator Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator. Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer or an external display.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 63 Attaching your computer to the port replicator To attach your computer to the port replicator, proceed as follows: 1 2 Disconnect all peripherals attached to your computer. On the bottom of the computer, lift the port replicator port cover. 3 Press the bottom of the computer into the port replicator connector until it clicks. 4 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In (2) connector on the port replicator (3).
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 64 5 ✍ Plug the power cord (4) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. The power indicator light turns green. When you use the port replicator for the first time, the installation of the network drivers starts automatically. When attaching your computer to the port replicator, do not attempt to insert or remove the battery pack. Lifting and turning the computer with the attached port replicator may cause a temporary loss of power.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 65 Disconnecting your computer from the port replicator To disconnect your computer from the port replicator, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 ✍ Turn off the peripherals connected to your computer. Pull the levers on each side of the port replicator (1) to disconnect the computer from the port replicator. Lift the computer away from the port replicator. Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 66 Connecting an external display You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use your computer with the following devices: ❑ Computer display (monitor); Multimedia computer display; TV; Projector. ✍ Turn off your computer and the peripherals, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the external display. ❑ ❑ ❑ Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 67 Connecting a computer display To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: 1 2 Plug the display cable (1) in the monitor (VGA) connector (2) on the computer. If necessary, plug one end of the display’s power cord (3) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 68 Connecting a multimedia computer display You can connect the notebook to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. To connect a multimedia computer display, proceed as follows: 1 Plug the display cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) on the computer. 2 Plug the speaker cable (3) into the headphone connector (4) on the computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 69 Connecting a TV To connect a TV, proceed as follows: 1 Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) into the TV Out connector (2) (yellow) and the other end into the TV. 2 Plug one end of the sound cable (3) into the headphone connector (4) and the other end into the TV. 3 Plug the power cord of the TV (5) into an AC outlet. 4 Switch the input channel of the TV to external input. 5 Set up the TV configuration system.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 70 Connecting a projector You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD Projector. To connect a projector, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) identified by the symbol. Plug the audio cable (3) (not supplied) into the headphone connector (4) identified by the Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the connector of the projector (5).
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 71 Connecting external speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. To connect external speakers, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphone connector (2). Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the external speaker. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on. ✍ Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 72 Connecting an external microphone Your VAIO notebook does not contain an internal microphone. If you need to use a sound input device, for example to chat on the Internet, you need to plug in an external microphone. To connect an external microphone, proceed as follows: Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone connector (2) identified by the ✍ Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. symbol.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 73 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mouse You can connect a USB device (e.g. mouse, floppy disk drive, keyboard, printer, …) to your computer. Before connecting or disconnecting a USB peripheral, you do not need to shut down the computer. You may need to install software (device drivers) supplied with your USB device before using the USB device.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 74 Connecting a printer You can connect a Windows® -compatible printer to your computer to print documents. Connecting a printer using the USB connector You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows® to your computer. To connect a printer using the USB connector, proceed as follows: 1 2 Plug an optional USB printer cable (1) into the USB connector (2) identified by the computer and printer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 75 Connecting a printer using the printer connector To connect a printer using the printer connector, proceed as follows: 1 2 Plug the printer cable (1) supplied with the printer into the printer connector (2) identified by the symbol. Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 76 Connecting an i.LINK™ device Your computer includes an i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) connector, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK™ device such as a digital video camera recorder or to connect two VAIO notebooks in order to copy, delete or edit files. The i.LINK™ connector of your notebook does not supply power to external devices generally powered by i.LINK™ connectors. The i.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 77 Connecting a digital video camera recorder To connect a digital video camera recorder, proceed as follows: 1 Plug one end of the optional i.LINK™ cable (1) into the i.LINK™ connector (2) of the computer and the other end into the DV Out connector (3) on the digital video camera recorder. 2 Launch the DVgate application. ✍ On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK™ are i.LINK™-compatible.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 78 Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your computer to 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX-type networks via an Ethernet network cable. For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, consult your Network Administrator.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 79 Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, as well as troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony support options Sony provides several support options for your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 80 Glossary refers to terms used in this manual. Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications. ❑ About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system. ❑ Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart Capture.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 81 Other sources of information ❑ ❑ ❑ ✍ The online help files that accompany your pre-installed software contain instructions on using the software. VAIO-Link website: if you have any problem with your computer, you can access the VAIO-Link website. Go to: http://www.vaio-link.com VAIO-Link Response Centre: Before contacting VAIO-Link Response Centre, try to solve the problem by reading the User Guides and help files for the peripherals or software.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 82 Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions. Please try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 83 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ If you are using an external display, check that it is plugged into a power source and turned on. Check that you have switched to the external display and that the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly. Moisture condensation may have occurred. Do not use the computer for at least one hour and then turn it on. If the message Press to resume, to set up appears at the bottom of the display, you need to initialize the BIOS.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 84 12 Press the arrow keys to select Exit (save changes) and then press . The Save configuration changes and exit now? message appears. 13 Make sure that Yes is selected and then press . My computer does not shut down It is recommended that you shut down your computer using the Turn Off Computer command on the Windows® Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed here, may result in loss of unsaved data.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 85 My software program locks up or crashes Make sure the software is compatible with your equipment and operating system and/or try re-installing the software. If it still does not work, contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. My touchpad interprets a single tap as a double-click Open the Mouse icon in the Control Panel and change the button assignments in the Mouse Properties dialog box.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 86 The screen image on my external display is not centered or sized properly Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. About CDs and floppy disks My disc drive tray does not open ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Make sure the computer is turned on. Press the eject button on the drive. If the eject button does not work, you can open the tray by inserting a sharp, pointed object into the hole to the right of the eject button (depending on your model).
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 87 I cannot play a DVD-ROM ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ✍ If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD-ROM you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD-ROM drive on your notebook. The region code is listed on the packaging of the disc. Change the resolution under Control Panel - Display to a lower resolution.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 88 My floppy disk drive cannot write to a disk ❑ ❑ ❑ The disk may be write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not writeprotected. Check that the disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive. Your floppy disk may be corrupt. Try to insert another disk. When I double-click an application icon a message such as You must insert the application CD into your CD-ROM drive appears and the software does not start.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 89 The reading speed of CD-RWs is very slow Generally, the reading speed of a CD-RW is slower than that of a CD-ROM or CD-R. The reading speed can also vary depending on the type of format. The disc tray ejects even when it has been locked into place ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Ensure that the disc is placed with the label side facing up. Clean the disc and the CD-ROM drive lens. The disc may be scratched. Place another disc to see if that is the reason.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 90 My microphone does not work Check that the external microphone (optional) is plugged into the microphone connector. About the modem My internal modem does not work ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ✍ Check that the phone line is plugged into your computer. Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone. Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 91 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from any line noise. If your problem is fax-related, check that there are no problems with the fax machine you are calling and that it is compatible with fax modems. If you are having a problem connecting with your Internet Service Provider, check that the ISP is not experiencing technical problems. If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem to that line.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 92 I cannot print ❑ ❑ ❑ Check that the printer cables are correctly connected. Check that your printer is correctly configured and that you have up-to-date drivers. If needed, contact your dealer. The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode. To change the printer port mode, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 ❑ ❑ Restart your computer. When you see the Sony logo, press .
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 93 About digital video captures and DVgate While I am recording images to a digital video device using DVgate, my system displays the message Recording to DV device failed. Check the power and cable connections to the DV device and try the operation again... ❑ ❑ Close all open applications and restart your computer. Frequent recording of images to a digital video device while using DVgate sometimes causes this error.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 94 Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Your notebook and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: ❑ ❑ ❑ You contact your dealer to install a new memory module.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 95 Changing or adding memory In the future you may want to change or add memory modules in order to expand the functionality of your computer. You can increase the memory by installing optional memory modules. Be careful when changing memory. Mistakes on installation or removal of the memory module may cause a malfunction. For memory upgrades, use only PC133 (CL2) SDRAM SO-DIMM (gold leaf contacts). Electrostatic discharge can damage electronic components.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 96 ! Do not place the memory module in places subject to: - Heat sources such as radiators or air ducts, - Direct sunlight, - Excessive dust, - Mechanical vibration or shock, - Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, - Ambient temperature of more than +35°C or less than +5°C, - High humidity.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 97 6 7 8 9 To remove the memory module, pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows numbered 1. The memory module is released. Pull the memory module out in the direction of arrow 2. To replace or add memory, remove the new memory module from its packaging. Place the memory module carefully into the slots, as shown, making sure the notches are aligned properly. 10 Close the memory compartment cover and tighten the screw.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 98 Other precautions ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ On handling the hard disk (page 98) On handling the LCD screen (page 99) On using power source (page 99) On handling your notebook (page 100) On handling floppy disks (page 101) On handling CDs (page 101) On using the battery pack (page 102) On using headphones (page 103) On handling the Memory Stick™ (optional accessory) (page 103) On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 99 On handling the LCD screen ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Do not leave the LCD facing the sun as it can damage the LCD. Be careful when using the computer near a window. Do not scratch the LCD or exert pressure on it. This could cause malfunction. Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the screen. This is not a malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 100 On handling your notebook ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Clean the cabinet with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the finish of your computer. Should any solid object or liquid fall into the computer, shut down your computer and then unplug it.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 101 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Do not use cut or damaged connection cables. Your computer cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with a private branch exchange (PBX). If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one, moisture may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least one hour before turning on your computer. If any problem occurs, unplug your computer and contact VAIO-Link.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 102 On using the battery pack ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 60°C, such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight. Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery efficiency at low temperatures. Charge the batteries at temperatures between 10°C to 30°C. Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 103 On using headphones ❑ ❑ Road safety – Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It may create a traffic hazard and is illegal in some areas. It can also be potentially dangerous to play loud music while walking, especially at pedestrian crossings. Preventing hearing damage – Avoid using headphones at high volume. Hearing experts advise against continuous, loud and extended play.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 104 Glossary This section refers to terms used in this manual and elsewhere in the VAIO world. These terms and definitions have been compiled to provide you with a better understanding of your VAIO computer. Term Definition key The key gives you access to the online help of most software. 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet system providing data transfer rates of 10 Mbps (megabits per second) and 100 Mbps.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 105 Term Definition CD-ROM Abbreviation for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. A high-capacity optical disc, usually 650 MB in size, capable of being read from but not written to. CD-RW Short for Compact Disc-ReWriteable. Compact Disc that can be used to write or rewrite data to it. A CD-RW can be written to several times, a CD-R can only be written to once.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 106 Term Definition i.LINK™ i.LINK™ is Sony’s version of the IEEE 1394 standard for high-speed digital serial interface. The standard is regarded in the audio/video and IT industries as the most suitable interface for connecting computers and digital audio/video devices (such as digital cameras etc.). ISP An ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a company which provides you with a user name, password and telephone number in order to connect to the Internet.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 107 Term Definition maximum RAM The maximum amount of RAM that your computer can contain. Once this amount is reached, you can no longer add additional RAM to your computer. Motherboard The motherboard is the main circuit board inside your computer. It holds the CPU, the BIOS, the memory and so on. MPEG MPEG or Moving Pictures Experts Group is a standard for audio-visual compression of video sequences.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 108 Term Definition PCMCIA PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) is the name of the group that produced the specification for the credit card-sized plug-in boards for laptop computers. The cards used to be called PCMCIA cards, but as this was rather unpronounceable, these cards are now termed PC cards. An example of a PC card is a credit card-sized modem. Pixel A pixel (Picture Element) is a part of your screen.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 109 Term Definition Resolution The degree of sharpness and clarity of an image. Resolution is expressed in pixels. Frequent computer screen resolutions are 640 x 480 pixels (VGA resolution; appropriate for a 14-inch screen), 800 x 600 (appropriate for a 15-inch screen), 1,024 by 768 (appropriate for a 17-inch screen), and 1,280 by 1,024. LCD displays usually use a higher resolution than a CRT of the same size. RGB signal cable RGB stands for Red, Green, Blue.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 110 Term Definition VAIO Short for Video Audio Integrated Operation. Brand name covering Sony's PC products, peripherals, accessories and software. VAIO-branded items are all designed to make the best use of Sony's Audio-Video (AV) and Information Technology (IT) skills. WAN WAN (Wide Area Network) is a computer network connected together and covering a relatively large geographical area.
