VAIO® Notebook User Guide PCG-FX290/FX290K
VAIO Notebook User Guide Notice to Users © 2001 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights reserved. This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable form without prior written approval. SONY ELECTRONICS INC.
authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. i.LINK is a SONY trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connector. All products with an i.LINK connector may not communicate with each other. unless the telephone line has been disconnected at the network interface.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ Pour prévenir tout risque d’électrocution, ne pas ouvrir le châssis de cet appareil et ne confier son entretien qu’à une personne qualifiée. ! Pour changer la pile de rechange, veuillez contacter votre centre de service Sony le plus près. ! Avertissement - L'utilisation d'instruments optiques avec ce produit augmente les risques pour les yeux. Puisque le faisceau laser utilisé dans ce produit est dommageable pour les yeux, ne tentez pas de désassembler le boîtier.
Address: 680 Kinderkamack Rd. Oradell, NJ 07649 Telephone: (For FCC-related matters only.) 201-930-6972 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference. (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the Rules.
VAIO Notebook User Guide notify you in advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. But if advance notice is not practical, the telephone company will notify the customer as soon as possible. Also, you will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC if you believe it is necessary. The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations or procedures that could affect the operations of the equipment.
For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1888-476-6972 in the United States or 1-800961-7669 in Canada. ! Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. ! Ne pas manipuler les batteries au lithium-ion qui fuient ou sont endommagées. ! 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.
VAIO Notebook User Guide equipment may give the telecommunications company cause to request that the user disconnect the equipment. Users should ensure for their own protection that the electrical ground connections of the power utility, telephone lines and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas.
Notice to Users 2 Welcome 13 Features 13 Unpacking Your Notebook 14 Manuals 14 Software CDs 15 Recovery CDs 15 Other 15 Ergonomic Considerations 16 Notes on Setup 17 Handling Your Notebook 18 Cleaning Your Notebook 18 Handling the LCD Screen 18 Setting Up Your VAIO® Notebook 21 Locating Controls and Connectors 21 Connecting a Power Source 27 Starting Your Computer 33 Shutting Down Your Computer 34 Using Your VAIO® Notebook 35 Using the Keyboard 35 Combinations and Functions with the Windows Key 36 Indic
VAIO Notebook User Guide Using the Optical Drive 45 Playing a DVD 47 Notes on CD and DVD media 49 Writing data to CD-RW/CD-R media 49 Using PC Cards 51 To insert a PC card 51 To remove a PC card 52 Using a Second Battery Pack 54 To insert a second battery pack 54 To charge the second battery pack 55 To remove the second battery pack 56 Using the Weight Saver 57 To attach the weight saver 57 To remove the Weight Saver 58 Using Smart Connect 59 Windows Me™ 59 Windows 2000 59 Power Saving Modes 60 Normal
Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard 70 Connecting a Printer 71 Connecting an External Display 71 Connecting a TV Display 75 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device 76 Connecting an i.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Create a Movie using Shaker 105 Editing Clips and Scenes 106 Saving a Movie 106 PictureGear™ 107 Managing Your Pictures 107 Creating a Photo Album 107 Using Panorama Maker 108 Making Still Images and Panoramic from MPEG 108 Software Support Information 109 Sony Service Center 111 Application, System, and Driver Recovery CDs 111 Using Your Recovery CDs 112 Using the Application Recovery CD(s) 112 Using the System Recovery CD(s) 113 Using the Driver Recovery CD(s) 114 Troubleshoo
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of the 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. Features ✍ For a complete description of the specifications of your VAIO® Notebook, see “Specifications” ❑ Exceptional performance — Your notebook includes a mobile Intel® Pentium® III processor featuring Intel® SpeedStep™ technology* and a V.90 compatible K56flex modem.
VAIO Notebook User Guide CD-RW drive and DVD-ROM drive, providing increased storage capacity and a rich multimedia computing experience. The CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive plays DVD-ROM, CD-ROM, CD-RW, and CD-R discs. Unpacking Your Notebook Remove the following hardware items from the box: Main unit* Power cord AC adapter Video cable Rechargeable battery pack Weight saver * Removable floppy disk drive is in the multipurpose bay.
Unpacking Your Notebook Software CDs ❑ Microsoft® Word 2000 — Allows you to reinstall Microsoft Word to the VAIO notebook you purchased. Recovery CDs ❑ System Recovery CD(s) — Allows you to restore the software titles that shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased. It can only be used to restore the hard disk of the VAIO notebook you purchased. ❑ Application Recovery CD(s) — Allows you to reinstall individual applications or device drivers if they become corrupted or erased.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Ergonomic Considerations You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to apply the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments. Ergonomic Position Computer positioned directly in front of you Arms at desk level Wrists relaxed and flat ❑ Position of your computer — Place the computer directly in front of you as you work.
Ergonomic Considerations fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the display also. ❑ Lighting — Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables; otherwise, problems may result. ❑ Do not use cut or damaged connection cables. ❑ If the telephone company makes a service call to your home or office and determines that your computer is responsible for a problem, the telephone company may bill you for the service call.
Ergonomic Considerations ❑ 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. ❑ The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. ❑ The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/or bright points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD.
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Setting Up Your VAIO® Notebook This section describes all the controls and connectors on your computer, how to connect your computer to a power source, and how to start and shut down your computer.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 4 Touchpad 10 Caps Lock indicator 5 Left/right buttons 11 Scroll Lock indicator 6 Power indicator 22
Locating Controls and Connectors Left 1 Video out 4 i.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Right 1 PPK buttons 2 Power button 3 Optical drive (CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive) 4 Multipurpose bay 24
Locating Controls and Connectors Back cover 1 2 Modem jack USB connectors 3 Serial connector 4 Printer connector 5 6 7 Monitor connector Ethernet connector DC In connector Warning: Only connect 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet network port. Do not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line. Connecting cables other than those listed above may result in an electric current overload and could cause a malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the connector.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Bottom 1 Multipurpose bay RELEASE lever 2 Reset switch 3 Tilt stands 26
Connecting a Power Source Connecting a Power Source You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC Adapter 1 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on the computer. 2 Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter. 3 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ Use only the AC adapter supplied. Do not use any other AC adapter. Using Battery Power You can use one or two battery packs as a source of power. The second battery pack inserts into the multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer. (See “Using a Second Battery Pack” ) Additional battery packs are available as a separate option. The battery pack that comes with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.
Connecting a Power Source 2 Insert the battery pack into the battery bay on the left side of the computer. Inserting battery pack Battery pack (supplied) Label side facing down 3 Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks. ✍ If the port replicator is attached to your computer, do not attempt to insert or remove the battery pack. Lifting and turning the computer with a port replicator attached could cause a temporary loss of power.
VAIO Notebook User Guide There are two battery indicator lights on the computer Battery indicator lights Battery indicator lights Battery Indicator Description 1 Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay on the left side of the computer. 2 Indicates the status of the battery pack in the multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer. Battery Indicator Light Status Description On The computer is using battery power. Single blink The battery is running out of power.
Connecting a Power Source To remove the battery pack 1 Open the battery bay cover. 2 Pull out the battery pack. Removing the battery pack 3 Close the cover of the battery bay.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ You can extend battery life by changing the power-management modes in the PowerPanel utility. See “Power Saving Modes” ❑ The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium-ion battery and can be recharged at 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 battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts flashing.
Starting Your Computer Starting Your Computer 1 Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover. Opening the computer LCD lock lever 2 Press the power button on top of the computer until the green power indicator light turns on. ✍ (Windows Me™ only) When starting your notebook for the first time, the VAIO InitManager dialog box will appear. Please select “OK” to begin initial setup.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 3 If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display as follows: ❑ To decrease brightness, press Fn+F5 then the down or left arrow key. ❑ To increase brightness, press Fn+F5 then the up or right arrow key. Shutting Down Your Computer To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer. 1 Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar. 2 Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.
Using Your VAIO® Notebook Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Keyboard Print Screen key Function keys Escape key Correction keys Shift key Ctrl key Applications key Fn key Navigation keys Alt key Windows key Numeric keypad area Key Description Numeric keypad area Contains the keys found on a typical calculator.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Key Description Function keys The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, F1 is the Help key. The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next. Escape key The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and places it in the Windows Clipboard.
Using the Keyboard Combination Function + Ctrl + F Displays the Windows Find: Computer window where you can locate other computers. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Computer from the Start menu. +M Minimizes all displayed windows. Shift + +M +R Fn + Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of selecting Run from the Start menu. + Insert Displays the Properties window.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Indicators (continued) Light On Off Num Lock The number keys in the numeric keypad are active. The alphanumeric character keys in the keypad area are active. Caps Lock The letters appear in uppercase as you type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on. Letters appear in lower case as you type (unless you hold down the Shift key). Scroll Lock The screen scrolls differently. (Exactly how it scrolls depends on the specific application.
Using the Keyboard Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key Function Fn+ (ESC) Standby Puts the system into Standby mode, a power- management state. To return the system to the active state, press any key or press the power button on your computer. Fn+ (F3) Mute On/Off Toggles the built-in speaker off and on. Fn+ (F4) Speaker volume Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Using the Touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Touchpad Pointer Touchpad Right button Left button Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object. Click Press the left button once. Double-click Press the left button twice. Right-click Press the right button once.
Using the Touchpad ✍ See Mouse Properties for information on touchpad features, such as clicking both buttons simultaneously, adjusting touchpad speed, and Easy Launcher functions. To access Mouse Properties, click the Start button, point to Settings, point to Control Panel, and then click the Mouse icon in the Control Panel.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Using the Floppy Disk Drive Your computer comes with the floppy disk drive in the multipurpose bay. To insert a diskette 1 Hold the diskette the label side facing up. 2 Gently push the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.
Using the Floppy Disk Drive To remove a diskette ❑ When you finish using the diskette, wait until the LED indicator light turns off and then press the Eject button to remove the diskette. Eject button LED indicator ✍ Do not push the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost. To remove the floppy disk drive 1 Turn off the computer. 2 There is a RELEASE lever on the bottom of the computer. Slide this lever in the direction of the arrow.
VAIO Notebook User Guide To reinsert the floppy disk drive 1 Turn off the computer. 2 If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack”. 3 Insert the floppy disk drive into the multipurpose bay with the VAIO label facing up. Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the RELEASE lever locks into place.
Using the Optical Drive Using the Optical Drive Your computer comes with an optical drive (CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive). To insert a disc 1 Turn on the computer. ✍ When the computer is in Standby or Hibernate mode, you cannot insert a disc. See “Controlling Power Management”for more information on Standby and Hibernate modes. 2 Press the Eject button to open the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive. The tray slides out. Ejecting the tray Eject button 3 Place an optical disc on the tray with the label side facing up.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 4 Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place.
Using the Optical Drive 5 Close the tray by pushing it gently. ✍ Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your optical drive and you may not be able to open the tray. When you finish using a disc, wait until the LED indicator light turns off, then press the Eject button to remove the disc. When the computer is in power saving modes, you cannot remove a disc. See “Controlling Power Management”for more information about power saving modes.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ You can play DVDs using the DVD-ROM drive and the WinDVD software. See the help file that comes with the WinDVD software for details. Some discs recorded at 20 or 24 bits may produce noise while playing. If you have audio devices connected, this may cause damage to your hearing and the speakers. Reduce the volume before playing such discs. You cannot switch between LCD and TV if you press Fn+F8 when a DVD is inserted in the optical drive.
Using the Optical Drive Notes on CD and DVD media ❑ Do not drop or bend the disc. ❑ Do not touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors. Proper care of the disc is essential to maintain its reliability. Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners or anti-static spray, as they may cause damage to the disc. ❑ For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ✍ For optimal writing speed, deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data to a disc. For best results, use CD-Rs that are compatible with 4x speed, as DirectCD™ and Easy CD Creator® are preset to that speed. Your notebook does not support 1x writing speed. If you use CD-RW or CD-R writing software other than DirectCD™, use PowerPanel to select the DVD Profile. When using Easy Creator® Standard, be sure to close and exit all other applications.
Using PC Cards Using PC Cards Your computer includes two PC card slots. PC cards allow you to connect portable external devices such as another hard disk drive, or to connect a network. ✍ The PC card slots can accommodate two Type I/II PC cards, or one Type III PC card. These slots are compatible with CardBus. Use the lower slot for Type III PC cards. You do not need to shut down your notebook before inserting or removing a PC card. To insert a PC card 1 Push the Release button once.
VAIO Notebook User Guide bottom PC card slot protectors. PC card slot protector 3 Insert the PC card into the PC card slot. Make sure the front label of the PC card is facing up. 4 Push the the PC card slot gently into the connector. The PC card is automatically detected by your system. The (Unplug or Eject Hardware icon) appears in the taskbar. Inserting a PC card Insert with the arrow facing toward the slot PC card Do not force a PC card into the slot as this may damage the connector pins.
Using PC Cards 1 Double-click box appears. in the taskbar. The “Unplug or Eject Hardware” dialog 2 Select the hardware device you wish to remove. 3 Click Stop. In the “Stop a Hardware device” dialog box, confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system. 4 Click OK. The message, “PC Card can now be safely removed from the system” appears. 5 Click OK again and click Close. 6 Push the Release button. The Release button pops out. 7 Push the Release button a second time.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Using a Second Battery Pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time that 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.
Using a Second Battery Pack To charge the second battery pack Using weight saver for second battery cover Battery pack Weight saver Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator flashes while the battery is charging. See also “To charge the battery pack” for more information.
VAIO Notebook User Guide To remove the second battery pack If you attach two battery packs, you can remove either of them without shutting down the computer. When removing one battery pack, make sure that the other battery pack’s indicator light is on. If the indicator light of the battery pack you are removing is on, right-click the battery icon on the task tray and click the “Switch discharge battery” option. 1 There is a Release lever on the bottom of the weight saver.
Using the Weight Saver Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty. To attach the weight saver 1 If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack”. 2 Fold out the hinged arm of the weight saver and then push on the hinged arm to lock it into place. Slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
VAIO Notebook User Guide To remove the Weight Saver 1 There is a release lever on the bottom of the weight saver. To remove the weight saver, slide this lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the Release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2. Multipurpose bay release levers Arrow 1: Weight saver Release lever Arrow 2: RELEASE lever 2 58 After removing the weight saver, pull out the weight saver’s hinged arm and fold it into the weight saver.
Using Smart Connect Using Smart Connect Windows Me™ You can connect your VAIO® notebook to another VAIO computer that has the preinstalled Windows Me operating system or the Sony Smart Connect 3.0 software preinstalled. You may use an i.LINK*® cable (optional) to connect the two systems and then use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer. You can also print from a printer that is attached to either computer. Select the STD mode in Smart Connect 3.
VAIO Notebook User Guide See Smart Connect online help for more information. ✍ When you connect two VAIO computers, you must assign each computer a unique name. The computers can be identified by this unique name when the two computers are networked together. ✍ If you have previously purchased a VAIO computer or notebook that does not have the Windows Me operating system or Smart Connect 3.0 software preinstalled, consult the Sony website for support options (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).
Power Saving Modes To return to normal mode Press any key to return to normal mode. Hibernate Mode In the Hibernate mode, the state of the system is saved on the hard drive and power is turned off. The power indicator light is off in this mode. To activate Hibernate mode To activate Hibernate mode, press the key combination Fn+F12. ✍ (Windows 2000) The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears, and then the computer enters Hibernate mode.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Connecting a Phone Line You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet. ✍ In order to register your Sony VAIO notebook, register your software online, and use Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line. 1 Plug one end of the phone cable into the modem jack on the computer. Connecting phone cable Modem jack Wall jack Phone cable (optional) 2 Plug the other end into the wall jack.
Connecting to the Local Area Network (LAN) Connecting to the Local Area Network (LAN) You can connect your computer to 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX-type networks. For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Ethernet adapter Warning: Only connect 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the (Ethernet network) port. Do not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 5 Click the Identification tab to set the computer name, workgroup, and computer description. 6 Click the Access Control tab to set the share level or user level access control. Windows 2000 models To connect to the network 1 Right-click My Network Places and select Properties. 2 Click Advanced and select Network Identification to set the computer name, domain, workgroup, and DNS suffix. You can also use the Network Identification Wizard.
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: ❑ “Connecting the Port Replicator” ❑ “Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard” ❑ “Connecting a Printer” ❑ “Connecting an External Display” ❑ “Connecting a TV Display” ❑ “Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device” ❑ “Connecting an i.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Connecting the Port Replicator Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator (PCGA-PRFX1). Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer. Port replicator 2 6 4 1 5 3 1 2 3 4 Serial Port 5 Printer Port 6 Monitor Port 7 7 USB Ports / Port) Mouse/Keyboard (PS/2 DC In Network (Ethernet 10BaseT) ✍ The port replicator can be powered only with an AC power adapter.
Connecting the Port Replicator 1 Turn off your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. 2 On the bottom of the computer, slide the port replicator connector cover open. Port replicator connector Port replicator connector 3 Attach the bottom of the computer to the port replicator connector until it clicks.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 4 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC IN connector on the port replicator. Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. Connecting AC adapter to port replicator AC adapter Power cord ✍ Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony AC adapter. The power indicator light turns green. Power indicator light Release lever Power Port replicator connector 5 68 Turn on the computer.
Connecting the Port Replicator To remove your computer from the port replicator when the power is off 1 Turn off your computer and the connected peripherals. 2 Pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to disengage the computer from the port replicator. Disengaging computer from port replicator Lever 3 Lift the computer away from the port replicator. Port replicator connector cover 4 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your computer.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using a PS/2®-style plug or adapter. ✍ Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or keyboard, turn off the computer. You can only connect one external device at a time. Therefore, it is impossible to connect both a PS/2 mouse and PS/2 keyboard simultaneously.
Connecting a Printer Connecting a Printer You can connect a Windows Me/Windows 2000-compatible printer to your computer to print documents. To connect a printer ❑ Locate the Printer connector identified by the symbol. Plug the printer cable (supplied with the printer) into this port on the computer. Printer connector Printer to Printer Power cord Printer cable (supplied with the printer) ✍ See the manual that came with your printer for more information on installation and use.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ Projector (See “To connect a projector”.) ✍ Connect an external display before you turn on the computer. To connect a computer display ❑ Locate the Monitor connector identified by the symbol on the back of the computer. Plug the display cable (not supplied) into this connector. ❑ If necessary, plug one end of the display power cord into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
Connecting an External Display ✍ See the manual that came with your multimedia computer display for more information on installation and use. To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. Connecting a projector Projector To headphone i To monitor RGB signal cable (optional) Power cord Audio cable (optional) ✍ See the manual that came with your projector for more information on its installation and use.
VAIO Notebook User Guide To Press Result Switch to an external display Fn+F7 Toggles between the LCD, the external display connected to the Monitor connector, or both the LCD and external display. Only LCD LCD and external display Only external display ✍ Connect the cable before you turn on the computer, otherwise Fn + 7 will not work.
Connecting a TV Display Connecting a TV Display You can enjoy playing audio/video by connecting AV devices to your computer. See also the manuals supplied with your AV devices. To Connect a TV ❑ Connect the computer to a TV using audio/video cables. Switch the input channel of the TV to external input. You also need to set up the TV configuration system.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ✍ See the manual that came with your peripheral device for more information on installation and use. ✍ If you insert a DVD in your DVD drive to watch a video on your TV, the Fn+F8 key combination might not activate the function to toggle between your LCD and TV. Take the following steps: 1. Connect the TV to the Computer. 2. Restart the computer and wait until it finishes. 3. Toggle between your LCD and your TV with the Fn+F8 key combination.
Connecting an i.LINK® Device To connect a USB device ✍ Before you connect or disconnect a mouse, turn off the computer. The following steps describe the procedure for connecting a USB mouse to your computer. Use the same procedure for connecting all USB devices. ❑ Locate the USB device identified by the symbol. Plug one end of the USB cable into this port and the other end into the USB device.
VAIO Notebook User Guide To connect a digital video camera recorder ❑ Plug one end of the i.LINK cable (not supplied) into the i.LINK connector on the left side of the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out connector on the digital video camera recorder. ✍ i.LINK cables compatible with your VAIO notebook include cables with the following part numbers: VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end), VMC-IL4615 (a 1.
Connecting an i.LINK® Device ✍ The Sony digital video camera recorder is pictured; you may need to connect your camera differently. On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are i.LINKcompatible. See the manual that came with your digital video camera recorder for more information on installation and use. Do not connect more than one digital video camera at a time. The software supplied with your computer will not recognize multiple cameras. The i.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. ✍ Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on. Do not place diskettes on the speakers; the speakers’ magnetic field may damage the data on the diskettes. To connect external speakers ❑ Locate the Headphone connector identified by the symbol on the side of the computer.
Connecting an External Microphone Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. ✍ Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. The microphone should be compliant with the plug-in power microphone. To connect an external microphone ❑ Locate the Microphone connector identified by the symbol on the side of the computer. Plug the microphone cable into this connector.
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Customizing Your VAIO® Notebook You can customize the settings of your notebook. The following sections briefly describe how to change your computer’s default settings. You can also refer to Sony Notebook Setup Help for more detailed information. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: 1 Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar. 2 Point to VAIO and click Sony Notebook Setup.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Sony Notebook Setup Tabs Tab Description About This Computer Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version. Select printer port mode settings. Change the volume of the sounds that play while the operating system is loading. Select the order of drives and devices from which you want to load the operating system. You can specify the hard drive as well as other drives inserted into your computer.
Controlling Power Management Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel utility allows you to control the power management of your notebook computer and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your computer’s battery power. You can also refer to PowerPanel Help for more detailed information. To activate a profile or command, see “Displaying Battery Information” .
VAIO Notebook User Guide You can change the power management settings, such as the system timer and the brightness of the screen. To customize power management settings 1 Click the Current Profile icon on the Power Management toolbar. 2 Select Edit/Create Profiles from the menu. 3 Click a profile whose setting you want to change from the list in the left field. 4 Double-click an item whose setting you want to change from the list in the right field. 5 Click the desired setting.
Controlling Power Management Icon Description AC Power The power management state when AC power is in use. Similar to the Power Management Off setting. Power Management automatically loads the AC profile unless you disable this feature. Games Disables the display and the Hard Disk Standby timer. Presentation Keeps the display on at all times while it conserves power. This option is ideal for slide show presentations.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Power Management Commands PowerPanel also provides power management commands that you can use to activate specific power management functions and to control power for a specific device. You can use these commands to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action. Icon Description Standby Puts the system into Standby mode, a power management state that saves the state of the system and peripheral devices in memory (RAM).
Displaying Battery Information Displaying Battery Information You can display information for each of the batteries in your computer. The following sections briefly describe how to display your computer’s general battery information. Refer to PowerPanel Help for more detailed information. To activate the Battery Information toolbar 1 Right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. 2 Select Toolbars from the pop-up menu, then click Battery Information.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Displaying Detailed Battery Information Double-click the battery icon on the task tray to display the Battery Information window. The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time. Battery Information Window Customizing the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system You can customize the Battery Information toolbar and modify the alarm settings, to suit your portable computing needs.
Selecting the Display Mode Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the Intel® video controller, which enables you to select the desired display when the notebook is connected to an external monitor. When you connect an external display, you can switch the display mode between your notebook’s LCD display and the external monitor. To select the display mode, proceed as follows: (See also “Connecting an External Display” .) ✍ Connect an external display before you turn on the computer.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 4 Click the Intel® 82815 Graphics Technology tab, then click the Graphics Properties button. If you are connecting only to TV, go to step 7. 5 Click the Driver Configuration tab. 6 Make sure that the Synchronous Display Mode box is selected, then click Apply. If you want to use the TV as a display, deselect the Synchronous Display Mode box, then click Apply. You cannot use the TV and another display simultaneously. 7 Click the Device tab. 8 Select the type of display.
Selecting the Display Mode ✍ This feature is available with UI Design Selector-compatible software only.
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Adding Memory In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your computer. You can increase memory up to 512 MB (256 MB x 2), by installing optional memory modules. 256 MB of memory is pre-installed (256 MB x 1). You can add an expansion memory module (64 MB, 128 MB, or 256 MB) in the memory module bay. Expansion memory modules are available as options. For memory upgrades, use only PC100 (CL2) SDRAM SO-DIMM (gold lead contacts).
VAIO Notebook User Guide Typical expansion memory configuration Total System Memory (MB) Slot 1 (MB) Slot 2 (MB) 320 256 64 384 256 128 512 256 256 To remove a memory module 1 Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. 2 Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack(s). 3 After the computer has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your computer. Use an appropriate screwdriver.
Adding Memory 5 Remove the memory module. Removing memory module 1 2 1 1 Pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows. The memory module is released. 6 2 Pull the memory module in the direction of the arrow. Tighten the screw on the memory bay cover. ✍ Your computer comes with a memory module installed in the memory slot. To upgrade your memory, remove this module from the slot before installing your upgrade memory module.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 3 Install the memory module. Installing memory module 1 Slide the memory module into the slot. 4 2 Press the module into place until it clicks. Tighten the screw on the cover of the memory bay. To view the amount of memory 1 Restart the computer. 2 Click the Start button on the Windows status bar, point to VAIO option, and click “Sony Notebook Setup.” The Sony Notebook Setup screen appears. 3 98 Click the “About This Computer” tab to view the amount of system memory.
About the Software on Your Notebook Your VAIO notebook is ready to help you work, play, learn, and communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you the following: ❑ An overview of the various software that come with your computer and the activities you can perform with your software ❑ Software support information ❑ Details on your Sony application and system recovery CDs Overview Adaptec Easy CD Creator® and DirectCD™ Adaptec, Inc.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Adobe Premiere® LE Adobe Systems Incorporated Adobe Premiere LE offers an interface and editing tool for producing movies for video, multimedia, or the Web. View source clips and edited footage simultaneously on the monitor window. Create video clips up to three hours long with complete audio-video synchronization. America Online® (Windows Me only) America Online America Online is a popular Internet online service.
Overview EarthLink Network TotalAccess® (Windows Me only) EarthLink Network, Inc. An Internet Service Provider that supplies access, information, and assistance to its customers, introducing them to the Internet. Member benefits include e-mail, newsgroups, a personal start page, a free 6 MB web site, a member newsletter, and 24-hour technical support. McAfee® VirusScan® Network Associates, Inc. Protect your computer from viruses.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Netscape Communicator® Netscape Communications Netscape Communicator is an all-in-one Internet tool that makes it easy to browse the web, send Internet e-mail, chat, read newsgroups, and compose great web documents. PictureGear™ Sony Electronics This image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica® camera. The images appear in a convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder.
MovieShaker™ Sound Forge® XP Sonic Foundry Sound Forge XP allows you to put powerful audio processing tools and effects to work on your notebook. Simply cut, copy, and paste your way to striking multimedia files for use in everything from Web pages to desktop presentations. WinDVD® InterVideo, Inc. WinDVD is a simple-to-use DVD player combining all the features you would expect to find in a standard consumer DVD player, in addition to some very advanced functionality, such as full VCD 2.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 4 ✍ 104 Click Open. The file is added to the Clip tray. Importing files over 75 seconds in length may cause MovieShaker Software to stop responding.
MovieShaker™ Create a Movie using Shaker After adding clip(s) to the Clip tray, you can create a short movie using the Shaker feature. Shaker randomly select clips from the Clip tray to create a 30second scene. 1 Click the Shake tab. 2 Select a mood by clicking a face in the Shaker tray. Shaker Tray 3 Click . A thirty second scene is automatically generated and saved to the Product tray. 4 To preview, switch the Work Panel to Product tray mode and press play.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Editing Clips and Scenes You can edit your movie by adding effects and text, adjusting the color and contrast, and modifying the length of clips. Working Panel Sound Color Monitor Speed Effect Palette Trim Palette Effect Knobs Adding effects to a scene or a clip: 1 Double-click the clip or scene to move it to the Working Panel. 2 Select the Effects tab from the Editing tray.
PictureGear™ 3 Select the format in which you want the document to be saved. 4 Click Next. 5 Locate the folder to which you want the file saved. 6 Name the file. 7 Click Save. ! Exporting movies may take a long time to complete—Save movie as DV (Digital Video) takes the longest and Quick-Save is the fastest. MovieShaker Software can play video files up to 65 MB in length. ✍ For DV playback and smooth video playback, we recommend the following resolution/ refresh rates: 1024 x 768/75 Hz or lower.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 4 Now add more pictures, frames, text, and effects. 5 When you are finished, select Create Album in File menu or click the Create Album icon on the toolbar. 6 Designate the folder you where want to save the Album. 7 Enter the Target Album name, select Thumbnails and click Okay. 8 The new album can be viewed using most internet browsers. Using Panorama Maker Panorama Maker stitches a group of still images into a 360 degree panoramic picture.
Software Support Information Software Support Information Adaptec, Inc. Web site http://www.adaptec.com/ phone 408-945-8600 fax 408-262-2533 Acrobat® Reader, Adobe PhotoDeluxe® Business Edition, Adobe Premiere® LE (Adobe Systems Incorporated) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PT America Online® (America Online) Web site http://www.aol.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Netscape Communicator® (Netscape Communications Corporation) Web site http://www.netscape.com/ phone 888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972)* hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day PhotoPrinter™ 2000 Pro (ArcSoft, Inc.) Web site(s) http://www.arcsoft.com http://www.photoisland.com phone 510-440-9901 fax 510-440-1270 e-mail techsupport@arcsoft.com hours M-F, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM PT Prodigy Internet® (Prodigy Communications Corporation) Web site http://www.prodigy.
Application, System, and Driver Recovery CDs Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-4766972) or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at http://www.sony.com/ pcsupport. Application, System, and Driver Recovery CDs Your computer comes with the following application and system recovery CDs. (To use your recovery CDs, see “Using Your Recovery CDs” .
VAIO Notebook User Guide Using Your Recovery CDs The following sections describe how to use the Application Recovery and System Recovery utilities. Using the Application Recovery CD(s) The Application Recovery CD(s) allows you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are accidentally erased.
Using Your Recovery CDs Using the System Recovery CD(s) You can reinstall software titles that shipped with your computer if they are corrupted or erased. You may not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a problem with your computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may correct the problem. Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall individual applications or device drivers. See “Using the Application Recovery CD(s)” .
VAIO Notebook User Guide 3 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu. 4 Press the arrow keys to select “Get Default Values” and then press the Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears. 5 Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key. 6 Press the arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes) and then press the Enter key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears. 7 Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key.
Using Your Recovery CDs 3 When the Driver Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the recovery process. To repair software applications using VAIO Support Agent The Driver Recovery CD utility has an information vault that contains the original characteristics for the preinstalled software applications that are protected by VAIO Support Agent.
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Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony PC Support (http://www.sony.com/ pcsupport). Troubleshooting your notebook (Windows Me only) When starting your notebook for the first time, the VAIO InitManager dialog box will appear. Please select “OK” to begin initial setup.
VAIO Notebook User Guide My notebook starts, but my system doesn’t start properly ❑ When the internal backup battery is low on power, it may not start your system properly. The message “Press to resume, to setup” appears at the bottom of the screen. Follow these steps: 1 Press F2. The BIOS Setup menu appears. 2 Set the date (month/day/year). Press Enter. 3 Press Ð to select System Time, then set the time (hour: minute: second). Press Enter.
Troubleshooting 7 Press the arrow keys to select “Get Default Values” and then press Enter. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears. 8 Select Yes, then press Enter. 9 Use the directional arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes), and then press Enter. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears. 10 Select Yes, then press Enter. The notebook restarts.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ✍ Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete (at the same time) or turning off the notebook with the power switch may result in data loss in files that are currently open. My notebook does not enter the power saving mode I selected. (Windows Me only) ❑ Click Start, point to Program, point to Accessories, point to System Tools, and then click System Information. The Help and Support window appears. ❑ Click System Configuration Utility under the Tools menu.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting the LCD screen My LCD screen is blank ❑ Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. ❑ Check that the power indicator on the notebook is on. ❑ Check that the battery pack(s) is inserted properly and that they are charged. ❑ The notebook may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode. Press any key to activate the screen. ❑ The display mode may be set to external display mode. Press and hold the Fn key while pressing F7 several times.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Troubleshooting the mouse and touchpad My mouse does not work ❑ If you are using an external mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the mouse connector. See “Connecting an External Display” for details. ❑ If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series, check that the mouse is plugged into the USB connector. My touchpad does not work properly ❑ You may have disabled the touchpad without a mouse being connected to the notebook.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting drives, PC cards and peripheral devices My floppy disk drive can not write to a diskette ❑ If the diskette is write-protected, disable the write-protect feature or use a diskette that is not write-protected. ❑ Check that the diskette is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive. My optical drive is not playing my CD or DVD properly ❑ Make sure the label of the disc is facing up.
VAIO Notebook User Guide ❑ If the Eject button does not work, open the tray by inserting a sharp, pointed object in the hole to the right of the Eject button. I cannot use digital video (DV) devices. The message “DV equipment seems to be disconnected or turned off” appears. ❑ Check that the DV device is turned on and that the cables are properly connected. ❑ If you are using multiple i.LINK devices, the combination of the connected devices may cause unstable operation.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting the modem My modem does not work ❑ Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See “Connecting a Phone Line” for details. ❑ 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. ❑ Check that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.
VAIO Notebook User Guide 1 Double click System in Control Panel. 2 Set the sound device to enable in Device Manager. ❑ If your notebook is powered by batteries, check that the battery packs are inserted properly and that they are charged. ❑ If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check that the volume is turned up. ❑ Check the volume controls in Windows®. ❑ If you connect external speakers, check that the speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up.
Troubleshooting ❑ Select Refresh, then click OK. The printer should function properly. Windows 2000 Only ❑ Double-click My Computer icon on the desktop, then double-click on the Control Panel folder. ❑ Double-click on the Printers folder. ❑ Right-click on the icon of the printer that is not functioning, and select Properties to access the Properties window. ❑ Click OK to close the Properties window. The printer should function properly.
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Specifications Specifications The following table details the hardware specifications for your computer. Model PCG-FX290/290K Processor Mobile® Intel® Pentium® III 1 GHz* featuring Intel® SpeedStep™ Technology† L2 Cache Memory 256 KB (CPU Integrated) Hard Disk Drive C/D Partition (Approximate) 30 GB‡ 40% and 60% Standard RAM 256 MB SDRAM (Expandable to 512 MB) LCD Screen 15.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Model PCG-FX290/290K Drive Bay • Supports floppy disk drive (included) • Supports second rechargeable battery (optional) Expansion Capabilities Type I/II PC cards and Type III PC card with CardBus support Connection Capabilities • • • • • • • • • • • Supplied Accessories • Floppy disk drive • Rechargeable battery • AC adapter and power cord • Weight saver • Video cable Power Source 19.
Specifications Model PCG-FX290/290K Operating Temperature 40º F to 95º F (+5º C to 35º C) temperature gradient less than 50º F (10º C) per hour Operating Humidity 20% to 80% (not condensed), provided that humidity is less than 65% at 95º F (35º C), hygrometer reading of less than 84º F (29º C) Storage Temperature -4º F to 140º F (-20º C to 60º C), temperature gradient less than 18º F (10º C) per hour Storage Humidity 10% to 90% (not condensed) provided that humidity is less than 20% at 140º F (60º
VAIO Notebook User Guide †† Maximum speed for faxing is 14.4 kbps. Your 56K/V.90 compatible modem is capable of downloading at 53 kbps. Your online service or Internet Service Provider, however, may not support this technology or operate at this speed. ‡‡ i.LINK is a SONY trademark used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connector. All products with an i.LINK connector may not communicate with each other. ***Height measured at thickest point. The thinnest height for PCG-FX290/290K is 1.
A About This Computer tab 84 AC adapter 21, 27 AC power 27 AC Profile power setting 87 adding hardware 65 memory 95 peripherals 65 printers 71 adjusting brightness 34, 39 Alt key 36 Application Recovery CD 112 Applications key 36 attaching port replicator 66 Audio tab 84 B Basic/Advanced tab 84 battery packs 21, 28 charge status icons 89 charging 29, 55 indicator lights 30, 37, 54 inserting 28 inserting into battery bay 28 loading 28 rechargeable 27 removing 31, 54, 56 BatteryScope utility 89 brightness a
VAIO Notebook User Guide monitor 71 multimedia computer display 72 multiple phone lines 62 network 51, 66 party phone lines 62 PBX 62 phone line 62 port replicator 66 power source 27 printer 71 projector 73 USB device 76 weight saver 57 connectors DC In 27 network 66 printer 71 Serial port 66 correction keys 36 Ctrl key 36 cursor-movement keys 36 customizing your computer 83 D DC In 27 digital video camera 78 disconnecting port replicator 69 diskettes troubleshooting 123 display mode 91 options 73 selecti
Help Mouseware safety precautions loading battery pack 28 41 I i.
VAIO Notebook User Guide Notebook Computer 21 Notebook Setup tabs 84 Num Lock indicator light 38 O opening DVD-ROM drive tray 45 operator keys 36 output devices 5 adding 71 P party phone lines 62 PBX 62 PC card inserting 51 slots 51 troubleshooting 124 phone cable 21 connecting line 62 jack 62 laws governing 6 PictureGear 107 port replicator connecting 66 disconnecting 69 lever 69 network 66 power 37 cord 27 switch 33 power management settings 85 Power Management Off power setting 86 Power On Password t
indicator light 38 second battery pack 28, 54 selecting display 73 LCD 73 monitor 73 power source 28 Serial connector 66 setup screen About This Computer tab 84 Audio tab 84 Basic/Advanced tab 84 displaying 83 Power On Password tab 84 Printer tab 84 Touchpad tab 84 setup tabs 84 Shift key 36 Shut Down Windows dialog box 34 shutting down 34 Software list 99 Sony Notebook Setup screen 83 Sony Service Center 111 speakers external 80 switching 39 troubleshooting 125 volume 39 Specifications 129 Start button 83
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