Welcome.......................................................9 Using Your VAIO Notebook......................11 Using the Keyboard...................................................12 Combinations and functions with the Windows key .........14 Indicators ...........................................................................15 Indicator lights ...................................................................16 Combinations and functions with the Fn key ....................17 Using the Touchpad .....
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Memory Stick Media .................................... 36 Types of Memory Stick media.......................................... 36 Write-protecting Memory Stick media ............................. 38 Formatting Memory Stick media ...................................... 38 Notes on using Memory Stick media................................ 39 Using a Second Battery Pack.................................... 41 To insert a second battery pack.....
Connecting a Port Replicator ....................................55 To attach your notebook to the port replicator ..................55 To remove your notebook from the port replicator ...........57 Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard......59 To connect an external mouse or keyboard .......................59 Connecting an Audio Device ....................................60 Connecting a CD player, active speaker, or an amplifier ..60 Connecting an AV Device........................................
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities ................... 79 Personal Digital Assistant ................................................. 79 Wireless LAN Access Point.............................................. 79 Wireless LAN PC Card..................................................... 80 Customizing Your VAIO Notebook ..........81 Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ........... 82 To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: ...............
About the Software on Your Notebook .103 Software Overview..................................................104 Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs.....110 Using Your Recovery CDs......................................111 To use the Application Recovery CD(s)..........................111 To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) ..................................112 To use the System Recovery CD(s) .................................115 Troubleshooting ......................................
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices ........................................................................ 125 My floppy disk drive (optional) cannot write to a floppy disk. 125 My optical disc drive is not playing my CD or DVD properly...................................................................................... 125 My optical drive tray does not open................................
Getting Help .............................................133 Support Options.......................................................134 Software Support Information.................................136 Sony Service Center.........................................................137 Index .........................................................
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Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO computer, and welcome to the VAIO User Guide. This User Guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software applications. In the left navigation window, click the topics you want to learn more about, and that information will be displayed in this main window.
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Using Your VAIO Notebook This section describes the following aspects of your new computer: ❑ Using the Keyboard ❑ Using the Touchpad ❑ Using the Center Jog Dial Control ❑ Using the Removable Hard Disk Drive ❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive ❑ Using PC Cards ❑ Using Memory Stick Media ❑ Using a Second Battery Pack ❑ Using the Weight Saver ❑ Using Power Saving Modes ❑ Connecting a Phone Line ❑ Connecting to a LAN 11
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Keyboard Your notebook keyboard is very similar to that of a typewriter, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Keyboard Function keys Escape key Print Screen key Correction keys Shift key Ctrl key Fn key Alt key Windows key Applications key Navigation keys Numeric keypad Key Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator.
Using the Keyboard 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function + F1 Displays VAIO® Help and Support Center. + Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. +D Displays the desktop. +E Displays Windows Explorer. +F Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Files or Folders from the Start menu.
Using the Keyboard Indicators Indicator Function Power Light is green when the power to the notebook is turned on, flashes amber in Standby mode, and turns off when the notebook is in Hibernate mode or powered off. Battery 1 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the right side of the notebook. 1 Battery 2 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the multipurpose drive bay on the left side of the notebook.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Indicator lights 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 Letters appear in lower case as type. The Shift key lowers the case of you type (unless you hold down typed letters when Caps Lock is on. the Shift key). Scroll Lock Information moves across the The screen scrolls differently.
Using the Keyboard Combinations and functions with the Fn key ✍ If you switch user identities during a computing session, the Fn+F7 and Fn+F8 key functionality (if available on your computer) will be interrupted. To switch to an external display or monitor, see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. Combinations/ Feature Function Fn+ (F3) Mute On/Off Toggles the built-in speaker off and on. Fn+ (F4) Speaker volume Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combinations/ Feature Fn+ LCD only/ (F8) Control AV out Function Toggles between LCD-only and dual LCD/TV display modes. Only LCD LCD and external display Only external display Connect the cable before you turn on the notebook, otherwise Fn + F8 will not work. Fn+ (F12) Hibernate Provides for the lowest level of power consumption.
Using the Touchpad 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 Left and Right buttons 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Action Description Right-click Press the right button once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive choices. Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button. Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touchpad to scroll vertically. Move your finger along the bottom to scroll horizontally. (The scroll function is available only with applications that support a touchpad scroll feature.
VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your notebook’s center Jog Dial™ control, Memory Stick® media, and i.LINK®* interface. An overview of some of the functions controlled by VAIO Action Setup is provided in this section. For more information on changing the settings using VAIO Action Setup, right-click the Jog Dial Utility icon or in the taskbar and click Help Topics. * i.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Center Jog Dial Control Your notebook is equipped with a center Jog Dial control located below the left and right buttons. The center Jog Dial control enables you to open an application, folder, or document from a predefined list by rotating and pressing the center Jog Dial control. In addition, when you press the center Jog Dial control, you can turn on your notebook automatically and start the selected application or document.
Using the Center Jog Dial Control Launcher mode The center Jog Dial control window is in launcher mode until a software application is launched or the Jog Dial control window becomes active. When you select an item in the Jog Dial control window and it is displayed between orange bars, you can press the center Jog Dial control to view a submenu of that item. Using Launcher mode To use the center Jog Dial control, click the Jog Dial control window or the Jog Dial Utility icon in the taskbar.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 1 Rotate the center Jog Dial control to select the item you want, and then press the center Jog Dial control. The Jog Dial Launcher window switches to guide mode and shows the function of the center Jog Dial control. Jog Dial Guide 2 Rotate or press the center Jog Dial control to use the desired function. 3 To select another item, repeat steps 1 through 3 above.
Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using the center Jog Dial control with Sony software If Sony software that supports the center Jog Dial control is active, you can use the functions of the center Jog Dial control that are allocated to that software. For more information on functions allocated to software, see the software application’s Help.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Removable Hard Disk Drive Your notebook is equipped with a removable hard disk drive, located on the right side next to the battery bay. The hard disk drive is preformatted and ready to let you take full advantage of all Sony VAIO® features. You can upgrade to a higher-capacity hard disk drive as your computing needs warrant.
Using the Optical Disc Drive Using the Optical Disc Drive Your notebook comes with a removable optical disc drive located in the multipurpose bay. Depending on the system you purchased, your optical disc drive is either a CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive or a DVD-ROM drive. The optical disc drive is removable when the power is on, but do not remove the drive when your notebook is in a power saving mode. Any attempt to do so may result in malfunction and/or data loss. To insert a disc 1 Turn on the notebook.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 3 Place an optical disc on the tray with the label side facing up. For DVDs that can played on both sides, the side of the disc facing up is the side that plays. 4 Press the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place. Inserting an optical disc Label side facing up 5 Close the tray by pushing it gently.
Using the Optical Disc Drive If the optical disc does not slide out when you press the Eject button, turn off the notebook and insert a thin, pointed object (such as a paper clip) into the manual eject hole. Make 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. Manual eject hole To play a DVD To play a DVD, you may use the optical disc drive and the preinstalled WinDVD® application.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. ❑ ✍ When playing a DVD on battery power, set the power management profile to DVD. You can also set the power management profile to Automatic Profile Selection if the display is not clear when using other profiles. Automatic Profile Selection sets the power management profile to DVD whenever a DVD is inserted. See “Controlling Power Management” for more information.
Using the Optical Disc Drive 1 Open the Start menu, point to Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, and then click System. The System Properties window appears. 2 Select the Hardware tab and then click Device Manager in the Device Manager box. A window appears, listing your notebook hardware devices. 3 Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives. From the drop-down list, double-click the drive name. A properties window appears. 4 Click the Properties tab.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. ❑ Your notebook does not support 1x writing speed. ❑ Memory-resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss. Deactivate these utilities before writing data to a disc. ❑ If your notebook computer has preinstalled Microsoft® Office applications, such as Excel, Word, and Outlook, turn off the FindFast application.
Using PC Cards Using PC Cards Do not strike or shake the notebook while writing data to a disc. Always use the AC adapter as the power source for your notebook if you are writing data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc. Using battery power may result in data transfer failure. Your notebook includes two PC Card slots. PC Cards enable you to connect portable external devices such as another hard disk drive, or a PC Network Interface Card (NIC) to connect to a network.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 2 Push the the PC Card gently into the slot. The PC Card is automatically detected by your system. The Unplug or Eject Hardware icon appears in the taskbar. Do not force a PC Card into the slot as this may damage the connector pins. Do not carry your notebook while touching the head of a PC Card (such as a wireless LAN card), as pressure or shock may damage the connector pins.
Using PC Cards ❑ If an exclamation mark (!) appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it. ❑ You may not be able to use some PC Cards or some functions of the PC Card with this notebook. If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are orienting the card correctly. See the manual that came with your PC Card for more information on its use.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Memory Stick Media This compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. The medium is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, the media can be used for external data storage.
Using Memory Stick Media To insert Memory Stick media 1 Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot. ✍ Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins. 2 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place. Inserting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media Insert Memory Stick media with the arrow facing toward the Memory Stick media slot.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 3 When the Memory Stick media ejects, pull it out. ✍ Be careful when removing the Memory Stick media, as it may eject completely from the slot. Write-protecting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab to the right or left to set or release write-protection. Write-protect off Data can be saved on the Memory Stick media.
Using Memory Stick Media 1 Insert the Memory Stick media into the notebook. See “To insert Memory Stick media” for more information. 2 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and then click My Computer. The My Computer window appears. 3 Under “Devices with Removable Storage,” right-click Sony Memory Stick MG, and then select “Format...” from the drop-down list. The Format Sony Memory Stick - MG dialog box appears. 4 Select the appropriate options, and then click Start to format the media.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. ❑ Formatting Memory Stick media erases all data (including music data) previously saved to it. Before you format Memory Stick media, confirm that the media does not contain files you want to keep. Do not use the media in locations that are subject to static electricity or electrical noise. Do not touch the media connector with your finger or metallic objects. Do not attach labels other than the supplied label to a media.
Using a Second Battery Pack 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 notebook with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first charges first. The battery pack you insert second begins charging when the first battery pack is 85 percent full. You can monitor which battery pack is charging by observing the battery indicators.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using weight saver for second battery cover Battery pack Weight saver Keep the battery pack in the notebook while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator flashes while the battery is charging. See also “To charge the battery pack” in the printed Quick Start for more information.
Using a Second Battery Pack To remove the second battery pack If you attach two battery packs, you can remove either of them without shutting down the notebook. When removing one battery pack, make sure that the other battery pack’s indicator is on. If the indicator of the battery pack you are removing is on, right-click the battery icon on the taskbar and click the “Switch discharge battery” option.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty, and secures the secondary battery when it is installed in the multipurpose bay. To attach the weight saver 1 If another device, such as a battery pack, is in the multipurpose bay, remove that device. See “To remove the second battery pack” for more information. 2 Slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into place.
Using the Weight Saver To remove the weight saver 1 To remove the weight saver, first slide the multipurpose bay Release lever in the direction of the arrow. Multipurpose bay Release lever Release lever 2 Remove the weight saver.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Power Saving Modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your notebook, 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 notebook has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Using Power Saving Modes To activate Hibernate mode To activate Hibernate mode, press the power button and release it immediately, or press the key combination Fn+F12. ✍ The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears, and then the notebook enters Hibernate mode. Do not move the notebook until its power indicator turns off. To return to normal mode To return to normal mode, turn on the notebook by pressing the power button. The notebook returns to its previous state.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 notebook.
Connecting to a LAN Connecting to a LAN You can connect your notebook to 10Base-T and 100Base-TX-type Local Area Networks (LANs). For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Ethernet jack Warning: Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the Ethernet jack. Do not connect any other type of network cable or phone cable.
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Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your notebook by connecting a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: ❑ Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive ❑ Connecting a Port Replicator ❑ Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard ❑ Connecting an Audio Device ❑ Connecting an AV Device ❑ Connecting a Parallel Port Printer ❑ Connecting a USB Printer ❑ Connecting an External Display ❑ Connecting a USB Device ❑ Connecting an i.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive You can connect a Sony USB floppy disk drive (not supplied) to the on your notebook. USB port To connect an external floppy disk drive ✍ You do not need to shut down your notebook before connecting or disconnecting a floppy disk drive. Plug the USB cable from the optional floppy disk drive into the USB port on the back panel of the notebook. The VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing upward.
Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive To insert a floppy disk 1 Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing upward. 2 Gently push the floppy disk into the drive until it clicks into place. Inserting a Floppy Disk Floppy disk Floppy disk drive To remove a floppy disk ❑ When you finish using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator turns off and then press the Eject button to remove the floppy disk.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 1 Double-click in the taskbar. The “Safely remove ...” dialog box appears. 2 Click the dialog box. The message, “Safe to Remove Hardware” appears. 3 Click to close the message. 4 You can now safely remove the external floppy disk drive. To carry an external floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk cable into the side compartment on the floppy disk drive.
Connecting a Port Replicator Connecting a Port Replicator Your notebook supports the use of the Sony PCGA-PRG1 port replicator (optional). Attaching the port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your notebook. Port replicator 1 2 3 4 5 DC In port 6 USB ports 7 / Mouse/Keyboard (PS/2) port 8 Serial port 9 Printer port 10 Network port (Ethernet 10Base-T/100BaseTX) VGA port S-Video out jack Video out jack Line-In jack ✍ The port replicator can be powered only with an AC adapter.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 1 Turn off the notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices. 2 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC IN port 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 The power indicator on top of the port replicator turns green. ✍ Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook or the optional Sony adapter.
Connecting a Port Replicator 4 Align the bottom connector of the notebook with the connectors on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into place. Attaching notebook to port replicator Notebook Port replicator 5 Turn on the notebook. To remove your notebook from the port replicator 1 Turn off your notebook and the connected peripherals. 2 Pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to release the notebook from the port replicator.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 3 Lift the notebook away from the port replicator.
Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using a similar type PS/2® plug or adapter. ✍ Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or keyboard, turn off the notebook. 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an Audio Device You can connect an audio device to the optional port replicator or the notebook. See the manual and online help that came with your audio device for detailed instructions. ✍ To connect an audio device, use mini-plug cables shorter than 2 meters and with no resistance .
Connecting an Audio Device Without the optional port replicator, simply connect an audio output device to the Headphone jack on the notebook. Connecting an Audio Device to the Notebook To Headphone jack Active speaker, amplifier, etc.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an AV Device You can connect an audio-video (AV) device, such as a TV or a video deck, to the optional port replicator or the notebook. ✍ Prior to attaching a video device, unplug the connecting cable from the Monitor jack. To connect an AV device to the optional port replicator, use the S-video jack and the Headphone jack, which require a S-video cable and an audio cable.
Connecting an AV Device audio-video cable. Remember to switch the TV input channel to external input and set up the TV configuration system. See “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. If you connect an AV device to the S-video jack, you must use the Audio (L) and the Audio (R). Also, the S-video jack and the AV out jack are not designed to be used simultaneously. If you connect cables to both jacks, only the S-video jack will function.
Connecting an AV Device 3 Toggle between your LCD and your TV with the Fn+F8 key combination. Your image is now displayed on both LCD and TV. Re-insert your DVD to launch your DVD software. ✍ A part of the image cannot be displayed on your TV display if the resolution of your notebook is more than 1024 x 768 dots.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a Parallel Port Printer You can connect a Windows XP operating system-compatible printer to your notebook to print documents. To connect a printer ❑ Locate the Printer port identified by the symbol. Plug the printer cable (supplied with the printer) into this port on the notebook.
Connecting a USB Printer Connecting a USB Printer You can connect a Windows XP operating system-compatible Universal Serial Bus (USB) printer to any of your notebook’s three USB ports to print documents. ✍ To use a printer, first install the driver software that came with your printer. To connect a USB printer Plug the optional USB printer cable into one of the three USB ports on your notebook and the USB port on your printer.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Display You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use the notebook with any of the following: ❑ Computer display (monitor) ❑ Multimedia computer display ❑ Projector ✍ Connect the external display before you turn on the notebook. To connect a computer display ❑ 68 Locate the Monitor jack identified by the symbol on the back of the notebook.
Connecting an External Display ❑ If necessary, plug one end of the display power cord into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet. Connecting an external computer display Computer display Power cord Display cable (optional) To Monitor port ✍ See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on its installation and use.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To connect a multimedia computer display You can connect your notebook to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. ✍ See the manual that came with your multimedia computer display for more information on its installation and use. To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display.
Connecting an External Display Use the Fn+F7 keys to select a display. See also “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. To Press Switch to an Fn+F7 external display Result Toggles between the LCD, the external display connected to the Monitor port, or both the LCD and external display. Only LCD LCD and external display Only external display ✍ Connect the cable before you turn on the notebook, otherwise Fn + F7 will not work.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Device You can connect a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device such as an external mouse, keyboard, speaker, and microphone to your notebook. To connect a USB device ✍ The following steps describe the procedure for connecting a USB mouse to your notebook. Refer to the manual that came with your USB device for specific installation instructions. ❑ Locate the USB device identified by the symbol.
Connecting an i.LINK Device Connecting an i.LINK Device You can connect an i.LINK enabled digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK®* S400 (IEEE1394) port. ✍ You can purchase compatible i.LINK cables from your local retailer, from the Sony VAIO® sonystyle Web site (http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio/), or by calling 1-888-3157669 (toll free). * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connector. The i.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To connect a digital video camera recorder ❑ Plug one end of the i.LINK cable (not supplied) into the i.LINK port on the left side of the notebook and the other end into the DV In/Out port on the digital video camera recorder. Connecting digital video camera recorder to i.LINK port Digital video camera recorder To i.LINK port To DV In/Out i.
Connecting an i.LINK Device 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) and VMC-IL4615 (a 1.5 meter-cable with a 4-pin connector at one end and a 6-pin connector at the other). You can purchase these cables from your local retailer, through the Sony VAIO® sonystyle Web site (http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio/), or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting with another VAIO computer You can use an optional i.LINK®* cable to connect your VAIO® notebook to another VAIO computer that has the preinstalled Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system or the Sony Smart Connect software. You may use an i.LINK cable (not supplied) to connect the two systems and then use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer.
Connecting External Speakers Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your notebook by connecting external speakers. See the manual that came with the speakers for more information on their installation and use. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; the speakers’ magnetic field may damage the data on the floppy disks. Before connecting external speakers ❑ Verify that the speakers are designed for computer use. ❑ Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. See the manual that came with the microphone for more information on its installation and use. ✍ Make sure the microphone is designed for notebook use. The microphone should be compliant with the plug-in power microphone.
Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities The following peripheral devices can be connected to your notebook, to expand the capabilities of your computer and enhance its versatility to meet your various business or personal needs: ❑ A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) ❑ A Wireless LAN Access Point ❑ A Wireless LAN PC Card ✍ For more information on available Sony products, go to http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. You can also connect your Access Point to a telephone line, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) router, cable modem, or Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL) modem to share access to the Internet among multiple computers. Wireless LAN PC Card The Wireless LAN PC Card, which comes with the Wireless LAN Access Point, can be purchased separately and is designed for building a wireless LAN environment.
Customizing Your VAIO Notebook The following sections briefly describe how to change your notebook’s default settings.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: 1 Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar. 2 Select Programs, Sony Notebook Setup, and then click Sony Notebook Setup. Sony Notebook Setup Screen 3 Select the tab for the item you want to change. See “Sony Notebook Setup tabs” for more information. 4 After you finish making your changes, click OK.
Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Sony Notebook Setup tabs Tab Description About This Computer Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version. Printer Select printer port mode settings. Initial Setting 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power management of your notebook 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” for more information.
Controlling Power Management 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. 6 Click the File menu, and then click Save. 7 Click the File menu, and then click Exit.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. the predefined profiles (except for the Disable Power Management profile), or you can create your own profile to suit your portable computing needs. The predefined profiles are: Icon Description Maximum Performance Provides the best system performance while still conserving power. Maximum Battery Life Provides power saving features to give you maximum battery life and good performance.
Controlling Power Management Icon Description Word Processing Optimizes power management with longer timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby mode to optimize power management for your system. Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications. Communications Extends battery life by initiating a quick display timeout. The Internal modem remains powered.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 notebook. The following sections briefly describe how to display your notebook’s general battery information. Refer to PowerPanel Help for more detailed information. To activate the Battery Information toolbar 1 Right-click the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. 2 Select Toolbars from the pop-up menu, and then click Battery Information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Battery icon Battery status Fully charged Discharging No battery Displaying detailed battery information Double-click the battery icon on the taskbar to display the Battery Information window. The Battery tab contains information such as battery charging time and duration of the battery charge.
Displaying Battery Information 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. Refer to PowerPanel Help for more information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the ATI video controller. You can select which display is used 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. 1 Click the Start button and then point to Control Panel. 2 Click Display to access the Display Properties window.
Selecting the Display Mode 4 Click the Displays tab and select the display settings by clicking the icon on the panel of your display choice. For more information, click the Help button. ✍ If you cannot see your movie or DVD on the external display, change the monitor or TV setting by clicking on the Secondary icon and changing it to Primary .
Change text in this variable definition to document title. ✍ You may not be able to display the notebook LCD screen and an external display or projector at the same time, depending on the types of computer displays and projectors you are using. Turn on the notebook after you connect the external display. Changing the window design of Sony software To change the window design 1 Click the Start button, and then click Control Panel.
Adding Memory In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your notebook. The amount of memory on your notebook will vary depending on the model you purchased. See the Specifications flyer that came with your notebook for the amount of memory preinstalled. Expansion memory modules are available as options. For memory upgrades, use only PC133 (CL2) SDRAM SO-DIMMs (gold lead contacts).
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Precautions and Procedures The procedures described below assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal notebooks and with common safety practices required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Personal injury or equipment damage may result from failure to take these precautions. Make sure you observe the proper safety precautions when you install memory modules in your notebook.
Typical expansion memory configuration Typical expansion memory configuration Models with 256 MB Memory Total System Memory (MB)Slot 1 (MB) Slot 2 (MB) 256 256 384 256 128 512 256 256 97
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Removing a memory module 1 Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. 2 Unplug your notebook and remove the battery pack(s). 3 After your notebook has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your notebook. Use an appropriate screwdriver.
Removing a memory module 5 Remove the memory module. Removing memory module 1 2 1 1 Pull the tabs in the direction of the arrow 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 notebook comes with a memory module installed in the memory slot. To upgrade your memory, removal of this module may be necessary before installing your upgrade memory module(s).
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Installing a memory module 1 Follow steps 1 to 4 of “Removing a memory module” for removing the preinstalled memory. 2 Remove the new memory module from its packaging. 3 Install the memory module by sliding it into the memory module slot. Press the module into place until it clicks. Installing memory module 1 Slide the memory module into the slot. 4 100 2 Press the module into place until it clicks.
Viewing the amount of memory Viewing the amount of memory 1 Restart the notebook. 2 Click Start on the Windows taskbar, select Help and Support, and then click “Sony Notebook Setup.” The Sony Notebook Setup screen appears. 3 Click the “About This Computer” tab to view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory is not shown, repeat the steps described in the “Installing a memory module” section. ✍ The amount of memory displayed in the Sony Notebook Setup screen is not always correct.
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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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Overview ✍ Depending on the configuration of your notebook, all software listed below may not be supplied. Adobe Acrobat Reader™ Adobe Systems, Inc. Acrobat Reader software enables you to view, navigate, and print electronic documents in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF), an open file format that is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents created on all major computer platforms. Adobe® eBook Reader Adobe Systems Inc.
Software Overview Digital Print Sony Electronics Inc. This image management software makes it fun and easy to edit, import, and organize your digital pictures in a photo album for rich digital printing to any standard color laser or inkjet printer. Digital Print can also be used to make custom CD labels for your audio CDs. DVgate™ Sony Electronics Inc. Connect a compatible digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK®* connector and capture your own video clips and still images.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Microsoft Office XP Small Business/Microsoft Office XP Professional (on selected models) Microsoft Corp. With Microsoft Office XP you’ll find a powerful new technology that will help you get work done more quickly by providing real-time, context-sensitive options for important actions, from formatting to error correction.
Software Overview PictureGear™ Sony Electronics Inc. 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. Quicken® Intuit Inc. Quicken is a fast, easy way to organize your finances. Quicken works just like your checkbook, so it is easy to learn and use.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Smart Capture Sony Electronics Inc. Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart Capture manages the i.LINK® connection between your computer and a Sony Digital Handycam® Camcorder that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture compressed video or still images that you can save or share via e-mail. A smart solution to computer, digital audio/video and network convergence.
Software Overview VisualFlow™ Sony Electronics Inc. VisualFlow software is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick® media. It displays any still picture, movie, or sound file stored in a Memory Stick media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner. VisualFlow software not only plays a selected movie or sound file, but also enables playback of files by other applications such as PictureGear, Memory Stick Slideshow, and Windows Explorer. WinDVD® InterVideo Inc.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs Your notebook comes with the following application and system recovery CDs. To use your recovery CDs, see “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information. Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are erased. Driver Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
Using Your Recovery CDs Using Your Recovery CDs The following sections describe how to use the Application Recovery, Driver Recovery, and System Recovery utilities. To use the Application Recovery CD(s) The Application Recovery CD(s) allows you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are accidentally erased.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) The Driver Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual drivers if they become corrupted or are erased. You can reinstall an individual driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with your notebook, hardware, or software application. VAIO Support Agent, an application repair utility, uses a vault feature on the Driver Recovery CD(s) to repair software applications.
Using Your Recovery CDs 7 From the Action menu, click Uninstall. This will remove the device driver from your system. Click OK to confirm this action. Repeat as necessary. 8 Restart your computer. To restart, click Start in the Windows taskbar, Turn Off Computer, and then click Restart. 9 When the Windows desktop reappears, Windows will automatically reinstall the device drivers from the Driver Recovery CD. Reinstalling all drivers with the Driver Recovery CD 1 Turn on your computer.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 4 Click Performance and Maintenance, then System. The System Properties dialog box appears. 5 From the Hardware tab, click Device Manager. 6 Click to highlight the device for which you wish to reinstall the driver. 7 From the Actions menu, choose Properties. The Properties dialog box for that device appears Properties dialog box 8 .Click Reinstall Driver. The Hardware Update Wizard appears. 9 Click next.
Using Your Recovery CDs 10 When the recovery process is complete, click Finish. Some drivers will require that you restart the computer to complete installation. To use the System Recovery CD(s) This CD restores your notebook to its original state, therefore user data and applications will be lost. You can use the System Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the operating system and software titles that shipped with your notebook if they become corrupted or erased.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 5 When the System Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the recovery process. If your notebook does not start from the Recovery CD 1 Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the notebook. 2 Turn on the notebook. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. 3 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
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).
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Your Notebook My notebook does not start. ❑ Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the notebook indicates that the power is on. ❑ Check that the battery packs are inserted properly and that they are charged. ❑ If you have connected an external, optional floppy disk drive, make sure there is no floppy disk in the floppy disk drive.
Troubleshooting Your Notebook 6 Select Exit (Save Changes), and then press Enter. The message “Save Configuration changes and exit now?” appears. 7 Select Yes, and then press Enter. The notebook restarts. ✍ If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony PC Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). My notebook starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. If your notebook continues to display the message “Operating system not found,” and Windows does not start, use your supplied System Recovery CD to restore the software titles shipped with your notebook. See “To use the System Recovery CD(s)” for more information. The System Recovery CD restores your notebook to its original state, therefore user data and applications will be lost. My notebook stops responding or does not shut down.
Troubleshooting Your Notebook 2 Restart the notebook by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously and then selecting Restart from the drop-down list. ✍ If this procedure does not work, press and hold the power button for four seconds or longer to shut down the notebook. 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 is inserted properly and that it is 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.
Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad 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 a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard” for more information. ❑ If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series, check that the mouse is plugged into the USB port. ❑ If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Driver Recovery CD to reinstall the mouse drivers.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. The pointer does not move while using the Touchpad or Mouse. ❑ Press the Windows key and use the arrow keys to select Shut Down. When the Shut Down Windows dialog box appears, press Enter. ❑ If you cannot turn off your notebook as described in the step above, press Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously and then click Shut Down on the Windows® Security screen to restart the notebook.
Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive (optional) cannot write to a floppy disk. ❑ Check that the optional, external floppy disk drive is properly connected to your notebook. See “Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive” for more information. ❑ If the floppy disk is write-protected, disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not write-protected.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. My optical drive tray does not open. ❑ Check that the notebook is turned on. ❑ Press the Eject button on the optical drive. ❑ If the Eject button does not work, open the tray by inserting a thin, pointed object (such as a paper clip) 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.
Troubleshooting Software Troubleshooting Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. Refer to “Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs” for more information. When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application CD into your optical drive” appears and the software does not start. ❑ Some titles require specific files that are located on the application CD.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the Modem My modem does not work. ❑ Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See “Connecting a Phone Line” in the online user guide for more information. ❑ 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.
Troubleshooting Audio Troubleshooting Audio My speakers make no sound. ❑ If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 to turn on the speakers. You can also turn on the speakers using the center Jog Dial™ control. ❑ If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, and then press or to increase the volume or you can use the center Jog Dial control to adjust the volume. ❑ If nothing is displayed when you press Fn+F3 or Fn+F4. 1 Double-click System in Control Panel.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the Printer I cannot print. ❑ The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode. In Sony Notebook Setup, select the Printer tab. If the printer port mode is set to ECP, change it to bi-directional. If the printer port mode is set to bi-directional, change it to ECP.
Troubleshooting i.LINK devices Troubleshooting i.LINK devices I cannot establish a connection between two VAIO computers when using an i.LINK cable. 1 Disconnect the i.LINK® * cable from both computers and reconnect it. 2 Wait for the computers to respond. If neither computer responds after a few moments, restart both computers. ✍ The computers may not recognize an i.LINK connection after returning from a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate).
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Getting Help Sony provides you with several support resources to answer questions about your VAIO® notebook or the preinstalled software. Refer to these resources in the order they are listed.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Support Options If you have questions about your notebook or the preinstalled software, refer to the following sources for answers in the sequence listed below. 1 VAIO® Notebook User Guide This online VAIO® Notebook User Guide and the printed VAIO® Notebook Quick Start provide you with information on how to maximize your notebook capabilities and solve common problems. The quick start is supplied with your notebook.
Support Options 6 Sony Fax-on-Demand This service, which requires a fax machine or your fax software, provides answers to commonly asked questions. You can use this automated service to request a list of available topics, then select the topics that you want to receive. To contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call: 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). 7 Sony Customer Support Software support is available free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Support Information Adobe® Acrobat Reader™, eBook Reader, Photoshop Elements®, Premiere LE® (Adobe Systems, Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) fax 206-628-5737 e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M-F, 6 AM - 5 PM (PT) America Online® (America Online, Inc.) Web site http://www.aol.
Software Support Information QuickTime™ (Apple Computer Inc.) Web site http://www.apple.com/ phone 512-674-8700 hours 7 days a week, 6 AM - 6 PM (PT) Real Entertainment Suite (RealNetworks Inc.) Web site http://service.real.com/rjoptions.html e-mail http://service.real.com/help/call.html (online form) Sony Applications (Sony Electronics Inc.) Web site http://www.sony.
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Index A About This Computer tab 83 AC Profile power setting 86 Access Point, Wireless LAN 79 adding hardware 51 memory 95 peripherals 51 printers 66–67 Alt key 13 Application Recovery CD 111 Applications key 13 attaching port replicator 55 audio connecting 60 connecting external speakers 77 external microphone 78 troubleshooting 129 Audio tab 83 audio-video (AV) connecting 62 B Basic/Advanced tab 83 Battery Information toolbar 89 battery pack Battery Information toolbar 89 power management settings 84 powe
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Index help 133 Hibernate mode M 18, 46 I i.
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Index memory module 98 replacing battery packs 41 restoring data 111 S Scroll Lock indicator light 16 second battery pack 41 using 41 selecting display 70 LCD 70 monitor 70 Serial port 55 setting up your PC support 134 setup screen About This Computer tab 83 Audio tab 83 Basic/Advanced tab 83 displaying 82 Power On Password tab 83 Printer tab 83 Touchpad tab 83 setup tabs 83 Shift key 13 Smart Connect 76 software changing window design 94 Smart Connect 76 support information 136 troubleshooting 127 Softwa
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