N Sony Notebook User Guide PCG-GR series
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 1 Read this first Notice © 2001 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 and RealJukebox are trademarks or registered trademarks of RealNetworks, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. PowerPanel is a trademark of Phoenix Technologies Corporation. Symantec Norton AntiVirus is a trademark of Symantec Corporation. 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 serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number and the model number in the spaces provided here. Refer to the model number and serial number if you call VAIO-Link.
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 4 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 This product conforms to the following 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. This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables not longer than 3 metres (9.8 feet).
Sony Notebook User Guide Read this first n N 6 Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For changing this battery, please contact VAIO-Link: http://www.vaio-link.com In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited. Use the public collection system.
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 DVDROM drive* and an internal modem.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 8 Documentation pack Your Documentation Pack contains printed information and online user guides on a Documentation CD-ROM.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 9 2 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. Customizing your notebook explains how to configure your system and power management. Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs explains how to perform a system and application recovery.
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 10 Your notebook and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: 1 main unit 7 phone plug (country-specific) 2 product recovery CD-ROMs 8 phone cable 3 documentation pack 9 power cord 4 AC adapter 10 DVD-ROM or CD-RW/DVD-ROM* 5 rechargeable battery pack 11 USB floppy disk drive** 6 weight saver * Depending on your model. See the Specifications chapter.
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: Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1).
Sony Notebook User Guide Welcome n N 12 Viewing angle of the computer’s display – Use the display’s tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the display as well. 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.
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 Left S400 1 i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) S400 port (page 77) 2 Memory Stick™ slot (page 46) 3 PC Card slots (page 43) 4 multi-purpose bay (for weight saver or second battery with weight saver or removable CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive* or DVD-ROM drive*) (page 19) * Depending on your model.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 15 Front 1 LCD screen (page 99) 9 battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 33) 2 speakers (page 69) 10 hard disk drive indicator (page 33) 3 keyboard (page 29) 11 Memory Stick™ indicator (page 33) 4 touchpad (page 34) 12 Num Lock indicator (page 33) 5 left/right buttons (page 34) 13 Caps Lock indicator (page 33) 6 Jog Dial™ (page 35) 14 Scroll Lock indicator (page 33) 7 Back button for Jog Dial™ (page 35) 15 power button (
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 16 Back 1 ventilation slot (page 11) 2 DC In (page 18) 3 printer connector (page 75) 4 monitor/VGA connector (page 62) 5 AV Out connector 6 Ethernet connector (network) 7 2 USB ports (page 72) 8 modem connector (page 55) 9 microphone connector (page 70) 10 headphone connector for headphone or external speakers (page 69) 11 USB port (page 72) There is a ventilation slot located on the left side of the back panel.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 17 Bottom 1 port replicator connector cover (page 59) 2 memory module cover (page 94) 3 multi-purpose bay release lever (page 19) 4 tilt stands (page 11)
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 18 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 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer. 2 Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter. 3 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 19 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 left 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 20 Charging the battery pack To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer. 2 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 three hours when the system is off / on.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 21 battery indicator light status meaning On The computer is using battery power. Single blink The battery is running out of power. Double blink The battery is charging. Off The computer is using AC power. When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink. Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 22 Removing the battery pack To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 Turn off the computer. 2 Open the cover of the battery bay. 3 Pull out the battery pack. Close the cover of the battery bay. 4 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 23 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 24 Charging the second battery pack To charge the second battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 Keep the battery pack (1-3) in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator (2) flashes while the battery is charging. 2 When the battery indicator stops flashing, the battery is fully charged.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 25 Removing the second battery pack To remove the second battery pack, proceed as follows: 1 Slide the multi-purpose bay release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the arrow. 2 Remove the weight saver. 3 Pull out the battery pack. 4 Reinsert the weight saver.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 26 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, press + to adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To increase the brightness, use the up or right arrow keys. To decrease, use the down or left arrow keys.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 27 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: 1 Click the Start button. 2 Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears. 3 Click Turn Off. Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator turns off. Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 28 VAIO-Link – If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, you can check the VAIO-Link website for a possible solution: http://www.vaio-link.com Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee sheet for the terms and conditions and refer to your Customer Service Guide for more information. To register your Sony VAIO desktop, proceed as follows: 1 Click on the VAIO Online Registration icon in the Start menu.
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. The illustration shows the 84-key keyboard for 14" screen models (PCG-GR214EP/MP) only. 15" screen models (PCG-GR215MP/SP) have 87 keys, but the functions are the same. Keys Descriptions Escape key (1) The (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 30 Keys Descriptions 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 task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the other. Print Screen key (3) The key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and moves it to the Windows® Clipboard.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 31 Combinations and functions with the Windows® key Combinations Functions + F1 Displays Windows Help and Support. + Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. +E Displays Windows Explorer. +F Displays the Search Results window to find a file or folder. This is equivalent to selecting Search and then For files or Folders from the Start menu. + Ctrl + F Displays the Search Results - Computers window where you can locate other computers.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 32 Combinations/ Feature Functions Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. + (F4): speaker volume To increase volume, press + and then or To decrease volume, press + and then or Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 33 Indicators Indicator Functions Power on: lights green. Power Standby mode: flashes umber. Battery 1 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the left side of the computer. Battery 2 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the right side of the computer. Memory Stick™ Turns on when the Memory Stick™ is in use. Turns off when the Memory Stick™ is no longer in use.
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 Jog Dial™ Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ with Back button on your computer, near the touchpad. You can turn and/or press the Jog Dial™ to scroll the window, select software, adjust the internal speaker volume, etc.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 36 The Jog Dial™ window is always displayed on the screen. This window has two modes: Launcher mode and Guide mode. The Jog Dial™ window is in Launcher mode until you start an application or the Jog Dial™ window becomes active. When an arrow appears next to an item in the Jog Dial™ window, you can display a submenu for that item by selecting it and pressing the Jog Dial™.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 37 To use the Jog Dial™ in Launcher mode, proceed as follows: 1 Click the Jog Dial™ window or press the Jog Dial™ while pressing the key to switch to Launcher mode. 2 Turn the Jog Dial™ to select an item, then press the Jog Dial™. The Jog Dial™ window switches to Guide mode, and shows the Jog Dial™ function. 3 Turn or press the Jog Dial™ to use the Jog Dial™ function.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 38 Software supporting Jog Dial™ If the Sony software supporting the Jog Dial™ control is active, you can use Jog Dial™ control functions allocated to each software. Software not supporting Jog Dial™ If the software in use does not support the Jog Dial™ control, you can scroll the window or adjust the window size. Using the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive Depending on your model, your computer is equipped with a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 39 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 40 Memory-resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss. Deactivate these utilities before writing data to a disc. When using a software application to burn CDs, be sure to exit and close all other applications. Exit anti-virus software before writing data to a disc. Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 41 Region codes indicators are labeled on the DVD discs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the disc. Unless a '2' (Europe belongs to region '2') or 'all' (this means that you can play this DVD everywhere in the world) is labeled on your DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player. Do not try to change the region code settings of the DVD-ROM drive.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 42 To remove the weight saver, proceed as follows: 1 Slide the multi-purpose bay release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the arrow. 2 Remove the weight saver.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 43 Using PC Cards Your computer includes two PC Card slots (1-2). PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices. 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 front label facing up. 2 Gently push the PC Card slot into the connector. The PC Card is automatically detected by your system. The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears in the system tray.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 44 Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a PC Card, check that you are inserting the PC Card in the correct direction. See the manual supplied with your PC Card for more information on use.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 45 If you unplug the PC Card from the computer when it is still turned on, your system might crash and you might lose data that you did not save before. Before you remove the PC Card, click the PC Card icon in the taskbar and close the card. Close any applications that use the PC Card before removing the card. Otherwise, data may be lost. While the card is inserted, your computer may not enter the Hibernate power management mode.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 46 Using the Memory Stick™ Your VAIO notebook 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 47 Compactness: with dimensions of just 21.5 mm (W) x 2.8 mm (H) x 50 mm (D), compatible products can also be small, lightweight and attractive in their design. Capacity: Its data capacity far exceeds that of a floppy disk. Security: its lock option means you can protect your data from accidental erasure. Versatility: memory capacity ranges from 4MB up to 128MB (the equivalent capacity of 88 floppy disks).
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 48 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 49 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 50 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 51 particularly on the Internet, have recently been on the increase. That is why the Recording Industry 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 52 VAIO notebooks VAIO desktops CLIE Handheld Entertainment Organiser 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.com Inserting a Memory Stick™ There are 2 ways you can insert a Memory Stick™ in your notebook: Using the Memory Stick™ slot; Using one of the PC Card slots.
Using your notebook n N Sony Notebook User Guide 53 Hold the Memory Stick™ with the arrow pointing in the correct direction when you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging the computer or the Memory Stick™, do not force the Memory Stick™ into the slot if it does not insert smoothly. Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™ using the Memory Stick™ slot, proceed as follows: 1 Check that the access light is off. 2 Push the Memory Stick ™ in towards the notebook.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 54 Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab to the right or left to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can be saved on the Memory Stick™. When the erasure prevention switch is on, data can be read from but not saved on the Memory Stick™.
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 55 Using the modem Your notebook is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect to a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, as well as to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link. To connect a phone line, proceed as follows: 1 Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the phone line jack on the computer. 2 Plug the other end into the wall jack (2).
Sony Notebook User Guide Using your notebook n N 56 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 57 If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off automatically. When the computer is in Standby mode, you cannot insert a disc. Standby requires less time than Hibernate. Standby uses more power than Hibernate. If you do not work with your computer on AC power for 30 minutes, it will enter System Standby mode.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 58 Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting or using any of these peripherals. Connecting a port replicator (page 59) Connecting an external display (page 62) Connecting external speakers (page 69) Connecting an external microphone (page 70) Connecting an external mouse or keyboard (page 71) Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device (page 72) Connecting a printer (page 75) Connecting an i.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 59 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 60 Attaching your computer to the port replicator To attach your computer to the port replicator, proceed as follows: 1 Turn off the computer and disconnect all peripherals. 2 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In port (2) on the port replicator (3). 3 Plug the power cord (4) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. The power indicator DC IN (5) of the port replicator turns green.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 61 6 Turn on the notebook. 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. Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook or the optional Sony adapter.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 62 Connecting an external display You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use your notebook 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 63 Connecting a computer display To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: 1 Plug the display cable (1) (not supplied) into the monitor/VGA connector (2) on the notebook. 2 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 64 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/VGA 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 65 Connecting a TV You can connect a TV to the notebook or to the optional port replicator. To connect a TV to the notebook, proceed as follows: 1 Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) (optional) into the AV Out connector (2) (yellow) and the other end into the TV. 2 Plug the power cord of the TV (3) into an AC outlet. 3 Switch the input channel of the TV to external input. 4 Set up the TV configuration system.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 66 2. Once the DVD is ejected, toggle between your LCD and your TV with the combination +. Your image displays now on both LCD and TV. Re-insert your DVD to launch your DVD software. If the display resolution of your computer is more than 800 x 600 pixels, a part of the image cannot be displayed on your TV. The hidden area on your TV can be seen by moving the cursor on your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 67 To connect a TV to the port replicator, proceed as follows: 1 Attach the port replicator to your notebook. 2 Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) (optional) into the headphone connector (2) (green) and the other end into the Audio Left and Audio Right connectors on your TV. 3 Plug one end of the the S-video cable (3) (optional) into the S-Video out connector (4) and the other end into the S-video connector on your TV.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 68 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 Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor/VGA connector (2) identified by the 2 Plug the audio cable (3) (not supplied) into the earphone connector (4) identified by the 3 Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the connectors of the projector (5).
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 69 Connecting external speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. To connect external speakers, proceed as follows: 1 Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphone connector (2). 2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the external speaker. 3 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 70 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: 1 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 71 Connecting an external mouse or keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using the PS/2 mouse/ keyboard connector. There is only one PS/2 connector, so you can only connect one external device at the same time. Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or the keyboard, turn off the computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 72 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device You can connect a USB device (for example, a 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 73 Connecting a USB floppy disk drive As an optional extra, you can purchase a USB floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer. To connect a USB floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: 1 Choose the USB connector you prefer to use. 2 Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable (1) into the USB connector (2). The VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing up. Your USB floppy disk drive is now ready for use.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 74 Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: 1 Hold the disk (1) with the label side facing up. 2 Gently push the disk into the drive (2) until it clicks into place. Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: When you have finished using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator (1) turns off and then press the eject button (2) to remove the disk.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 75 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 Plug a USB printer cable into one of the USB connectors on your notebook.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 76 Connecting a printer using the printer connector To connect a printer using the printer connector, proceed as follows: 1 Plug the printer cable (1) supplied with the printer into the printer connector (2) identified by the symbol. 2 Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet. Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer settings in the Sony Notebook Setup software.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 77 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 78 Connecting a digital video camera recorder To connect a digital video camera recorder, proceed as follows: 1 Plug one end of the 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. Launch the DVgate application. 2 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 79 Connecting two VAIO notebooks You can connect your notebook to another VAIO notebook using an i.LINK™ cable (1) (not supplied). In this way, you can copy, edit or delete files on another VAIO notebook. You can also print a document on a printer connected to another VAIO computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 80 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. The default settings make your computer able to connect to the network.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 81 Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, and provides troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony support options Sony provides several support options for your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 82 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 web site. 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 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. Leave the computer off for at least one hour and then turn it on. If the message Press to resume, to setup 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 You are recommended to shut down your computer using the Turn Off 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 If your computer locks up while playing a CD-ROM, stop the CD-ROM, and shut down the computer by pressing + and clicking Turn Off in the Turn off computer screen. My software program locks up or crashes 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 display mode may be set to external display mode. Press and hold the key while pressing several times. The screen image on my external display is not centered or sized properly Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. The window I have just closed continues to appear on my LCD Press the key and key twice to refresh the screen.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 87 Clean the disc with an appropriate cleaner. Moisture condensation may have occurred. Do not use the computer for at least 1 hour before turning it on. 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.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 88 My USB floppy disk drive cannot write to a floppy disk The floppy disk is 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 disk may be corrupt. Try to insert another floppy disk.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 89 The disc tray does not eject even when the eject button is pressed Check that the notebook is turned on. The CD-writing application software may be stopping the disk from being ejected. The disc tray ejects even when it has been locked into place Ensure that the disc is placed with the label side facing up. The disc may be scratched. Place another disc to see if that is the reason. There may be condensation in the drive.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 90 The sound of my notebook's fan is too loud Use the PowerPanel utility to change the Thermal Control Strategy setting to Quiet. This setting slows down the CPU speed. See PowerPanel Help for more information. My microphone does not work If you are using an external microphone, check that the microphone is plugged into the microphone connector correctly.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 91 My modem connection is slow Many factors influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other modems). If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service Provider, check the following: Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from any line noise.
Sony Notebook User Guide Getting help n N 92 You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices. My PC Card is not working Make sure the PC Card is compatible with your version of Windows®. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. If you are using two PC Cards, use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable the devices you are not currently using.
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 Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can damage memory modules and other components. Install the memory module only at an ESD workstation. If such a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area, and do not handle materials that produce or hold static electricity (cellophane wrappers, for example). Ground yourself by maintaining contact with an unpainted metal portion of the chassis while performing the procedure.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 96 6 Open the cover on the bottom by unscrewing the screw (turn counter clockwise). 7 To remove the memory module, pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows 1. The memory module is released. 8 Pull the memory module in the direction of arrow 2. 9 Close the cover. 10 Gently tighten the screw.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 97 Installing a memory module To install a memory module, proceed as follows: 1 Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. 2 Unplug the computer and remove the battery packs. 3 Wait until the computer cools down. 4 Turn your computer upside down. 5 Open the cover on the bottom by unscrewing the screw (turn counter clockwise). 6 Remove the new memory module from its packaging.
Precautions n N Sony Notebook User Guide 98 9 Close the computer cover. 10 Tighten the screw on the bottom of the notebook. 11 Turn on the computer. Viewing the amount of memory To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Go to Sony Notebook Setup via the Start menu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. 3 In the About this Computer tab you can view the amount of system memory.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 99 Other precautions On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. On the other hand, it may be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust. Although the hard disk has the safety device in itself to prevent losing data due to mechanical vibration, shock or dust, you should be careful when handling your computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 100 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. This is a normal result of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction. Avoid rubbing the LCD screen, as this can damage the screen.
Precautions n N Sony Notebook User Guide 101 Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts, Direct sunlight, Excessive dust, Moisture or rain, Mechanical vibration or shock, Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, Ambient temperature of more than 35°C or less than 10°C, High humidity. Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The electromagnetic field of your computer may cause a malfunction.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 102 On handling floppy disks Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets. Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. On handling CD-ROMs Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors.
Sony Notebook User Guide Precautions n N 103 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 104 Preventing hearing damage – Avoid using headphones at high volume. Hearing experts advise against continuous, loud and extended play. If you experience a ringing in your ears, reduce the volume or discontinue use. On handling the Memory Stick™ Do not touch the Memory Stick™ connector with your finger or metallic objects. Use only the label supplied with the Memory Stick™ as a label.
Sony Notebook User Guide Specifications n N 105 Specifications Product name PCG-GR214EP PCG-GR214MP PCG-GR215MP PCG-GR215SP Model number PCG-884M PCG-883M PCG-882M PCG-881M Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional Operating system Processor Hard disk drive Mobile Intel® Pentium® III processor 866 MHz-M Mobile Intel® Pentium® III processor 1 GHz-M Mobile Intel® Pentium® III processor 1 GHz-M Mobile Intel® Pentium® III processor 1.
Sony Notebook User Guide Specifications n N 106 Product name PCG-GR214EP PCG-GR214MP PCG-GR215MP PCG-GR215SP Floppy disk drive (optional) 3.5” 1.44 MB CD-ROM drive DVD-ROM drive CD-RW drive Removable DVD-ROM Removable CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive: up to 24x max. CD-ROM reading speed / drive: up to 24x max. CD- up to 8x max. CD-R writing speed / up to 4x max. CR-RW writing speed / up to ROM reading speed / up 8x max. DVD-ROM reading speed / laser diode properties: /wave length: DVD to 8x max.
Sony Notebook User Guide Specifications n N 107 Product name Supplied accessories PCG-GR214EP PCG-GR214MP PCG-GR215MP PCG-GR215SP rechargeable battery, AC adapter, AC power cord, phone cable, phone plug, weight saver Service 1 year free VAIO-Link Service Power requirement DC 16V / AC 100- 240V Power management ACPI (Advanced Configuration & Power Interface) Battery Dimensions Width Height Depth Weight - with 1 battery and weight saver - with 1 battery and disc drive Lithium ion 312 mm 325 m
Sony Notebook User Guide Specifications n N 108 Product name Storage humidity PCG-GR214EP PCG-GR214MP PCG-GR215MP PCG-GR215SP 10% to 90% (not condensed), provided that humidity is less than 20% at +60°C (hygrometer reading of less than 35°C) Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 109 Glossary This section refers to terms used in this manual or 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 110 Term Definition CardBus CardBus is the commercial name for an advanced PC Card. The CardBus technology allows computer users to enjoy higher performances as far as data transfer and operating speed are concerned. See PCMCIA. 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.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 111 Term Definition Ethernet Ethernet is the most widely implemented local area network (LAN) technology. The Ethernet system called 10BASE-T provides data transfer rates of 10 Mbps (megabits per second). A more recent version of Ethernet, called 100BASE-T, provides data transfer rates of 100 Mbps. Gigabit Ethernet supports data rates of 1 gigabit (1,000 megabits) per second.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 112 Term Definition Lithium-ion battery A lithium-ion battery uses lithium cobalt oxide and carbon as electrodes and ions move from one electrode to the other during charge and discharge. Lithium-ion batteries are the first choice for notebooks because of their light weight, high energy density and because they have no memory effect. In addition they do not use heavy metals like lead, mercury or cadmium. MAPI Short for Messaging Application Program Interface.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 113 Term Definition PBX A PBX (Private Branch Exchange) is a private telephone network within an enterprise. Under this system, the calls between the enterprise members are local and the phone numbers are made up of 3 or 4 digits. Companies generally choose this phone system for internal communication because it is less expensive than the regular network. The users can still share a number of outside lines for making calls external to the PBX.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 114 Term Definition PSTN PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) refers to the plain old telephone service, the national telecommunication networks implementing voice transmission by using analog signals. RAM Short for Random Access Memory, the memory used to run programs and store data in current use. RAM is the fastest kind of memory to read from and write to. Information stored in RAM is lost when you turn off the computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide Glossary n N 115 Term Definition System recovery CD-ROM CD-ROM that is supplied with your computer and that enables a VAIO computer user to recover the hard disk image that was available when the computer was purchased. TFT Short for Thin Film Transistor. Top-of-the-range notebook display for excellent picture quality. The TFT technology offers the sharpest resolution for flat displays; each pixel is supported by one to four transistors.
