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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Welcome.......................................................1 Using Your VAIO Computer .....................11 Using the Keyboard...................................................12 Functions of the keyboard keys .........................................13 Combinations and functions with the Windows key .........14 Indicators ...........................................................................15 Combinations and functions with the Fn key ....................17 Using VAIO Action Setup ............
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting to a LAN ................................................ 36 To set up your ethernet connection ................................... 37 To connect to a network.................................................... 38 Connecting to a Wireless LAN ................................. 39 Turning On Wireless LAN................................................ 39 The Wireless LAN Access Point ......................................
Connecting an i.LINK Device...................................58 Connecting an External Display................................61 To connect a computer display ..........................................62 To connect a projector .......................................................62 To connect a TV ................................................................65 Connecting a USB Printer .........................................66 To connect a printer ....................................................
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Displaying Battery Information ................................ 81 Battery icon descriptions................................................... 81 Displaying detailed battery information ........................... 83 Changing the window design of Sony software................ 84 Selecting the Display Mode ...................................... 85 To select the display mode................................................ 85 Adding Memory ........
Troubleshooting ......................................115 Troubleshooting Your Computer ............................116 My computer does not start. ............................................116 My computer starts, but a BIOS error appears. ...............116 My computer starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start....................117 My computer stops responding or does not shut down. ..118 The Power Management setting is not responding. .........
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 124 My PC Card is not working. ........................................... 124 Troubleshooting i.LINK devices ............................ 125 I cannot establish a connection between two VAIO computers when using an i.LINK cable...................................... 125 Troubleshooting Software....................................... 126 My software program stops responding or crashes.........
Troubleshooting Memory Stick Media ...................133 Image files do not open even though I insert Memory Stick media into the slot............................................................133 Memory Stick media does not work. I cannot access the removable drive. .................................................................133 Getting Help .............................................135 Support Options.......................................................136 Software Support Information........
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Using Your VAIO Computer This section describes the following aspects of your new computer: ❑ Using the Keyboard ❑ Using VAIO Action Setup ❑ Using the Jog Dial Control ❑ Using Memory Stick Media ❑ Using PC Cards ❑ Using Power Saving Modes ❑ Connecting a Phone Line ❑ Connecting to a LAN ❑ Connecting to a Wireless LAN 11
VAIO® Computer Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but your computer keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks.
Using the Keyboard Functions of the keyboard keys Key Description Numeric keypad area Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of the numeric keys. Note that you must press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad. (When you do so, the Num Lock light will be on.
VAIO® Computer Key Description Operator keys (Shift, Several keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl, Alt keys) Ctrl, Alt, and Shift. When held down with another key, the Ctrl (Control) and Alt (Alternate) keys offer another way to give commands. For example, in many applications, instead of choosing the Save command from a menu, you can hold down Ctrl and press the S key (referred to as Ctrl+S).
Using the Keyboard Combination Function +F Displays the Search window to find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start menu. + Ctrl + F Displays the Search Results: Computers window where you can locate other computers. This is the equivalent of selecting Search and then Computers from the Start menu. +M Minimizes all displayed windows (with Num Lock off). Shift + +M Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. +R Fn + Displays the Run window.
VAIO® Computer Indicator Function Wireless LAN ****to add text**** Memory Stick® ****to edit: When indicator is lit, data is read from or written to the Memory Stick media. (Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator light is on.) When indicator is off, the Memory Stick media is not being accessed. Num Lock When indicator is lit, the number keys area in the numeric keypad are active. When indicator is off, the alphanumeric character keys in the keypad area are active.
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 Functions Fn+ (ESC) Standby Puts the system into Standby mode, a power management state. To return the system to the active state, press any key on your computer.
VAIO® Computer Combinations/ Feature Functions Fn+ (F12) Hibernate Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the state of the system and state of the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk and the system power is turned off. To return the system to the original state, press the power button briefly to turn on the power. Fn+B Bass Boost Toggles the bass-boost function off and on. This feature is available only while using headphones.
Using VAIO Action Setup Using VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer’s Jog Dial™ control, Memory Stick® media, and i.LINK® interface. An overview of some of the functions controlled by VAIO Action Setup is provided below. For more information on changing the settings using VAIO Action Setup, right-click the Jog Dial control icon or , in the task tray and click Help Topics.
VAIO® Computer Using the Jog Dial Control Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ control on the top right corner of the unit. The Jog Dial control enables you to open an application, folder, or document from a predefined list by rotating and pressing the Jog Dial control. In addition, when you press the Jog Dial control, you can turn on your computer automatically and start the selected application or document.
Using the Jog Dial Control Using Launcher mode To use the Jog Dial control, click the Jog Dial control window or the Jog Dial control icon in the task tray. Alternatively, you can press the Jog Dial control while pressing the Ctrl key on the keyboard to switch to the launcher mode. 1 Turn the Jog Dial control to select the item you want, then press the Jog Dial control. The window switches to the guide mode, and shows the Jog Dial control’s function.
VAIO® Computer To use the Jog Dial control with Sony software If Sony software that supports the Jog Dial™ control is active, you can use the Jog Dial’s functions that are allocated to that software. For more information on functions allocated to software, see the software application’s online Help.
Using the Jog Dial Control Using a dialog box When a window such as Screen Properties is active, the Dialog box is displayed in the Jog Dial™ window. You can select an item in the window by rotating the Jog Dial control. Pressing the Jog Dial control is the equivalent of pressing Enter. Jog Dial Guide Dialog Box Internal timer You can use the internal timer to start an application at a specific time. The timer, when set, can launch applications even when the computer power is off.
VAIO® Computer Using Memory Stick Media This new compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. The media 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. Types of Memory Stick media Two types of Memory Stick® media are available.
Using Memory Stick Media 1 Insert with the arrow facing toward the Memory Stick® media slot and the label facing up. Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins. Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction and then turn it so the label side is down before inserting into the slot. To avoid damaging the computer or the Memory Stick Media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot.
VAIO® Computer 1 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, and select My Computer. 2 Under the heading “Devices with Removable Storage,” click Sony Memory Stick. To remove a Memory Stick media Make sure the access light is off. Push the media in toward the computer. When the media ejects, pull it out. When removing the Memory Stick media, be careful as it may eject completely from the slot.
Using Memory Stick Media 7 Movie files start playback when the view is enlarged. Click again on movie files to restore the view to normal. ✍ While an image is enlarged, the Launch toolbar appears on the bottom of the window. Any associated application can be activated from here. Notes on using Memory Stick media ❑ When the media’s write-protect tab is set to LOCK, data cannot be recorded or erased. ❑ Before using Memory Stick media, you should back up important data.
VAIO® Computer ❑ High humidity or places with corrosive substances. To prolong the life of the media, use the supplied storage case. See the instructions supplied with your media for more information on its use.
Using PC Cards Using PC Cards Your computer includes a PC Card slot. PC Cards enable you to connect portable external devices, such as an optical disc drive, or to connect to a network using a PC Network Interface Card (NIC). ✍ The PC Card slot can accommodate a Type I or Type II PC Card. This slot is compatible with Card Bus. Type III PC Cards are not supported. To insert PC card ✍ You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.
VAIO® Computer 2 Gently push the PC Card into the slot until it is firmly seated in the port and the release button pops out. Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. When a PC Card is inserted, do not place your computer in a bag or case. Pressure or shock to a PC Card may damage your computer.
Using PC Cards 6 Insert the PC Card slot protector into the empty slot. Notes on PC Cards ❑ For some PC Cards, if you alternate between normal power operation and the Standby or Hibernate power management modes while the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not recognized. Restart your system to correct the problem. ❑ Some PC Cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices.
VAIO® Computer 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 enables you to turn off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Using Power Saving Modes To activate Hibernate mode 1 To activate Hibernate mode, press the key combination Fn+F12, or press the power button and release it immediately. The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears and the computer enters Hibernate mode. ✍ Do not move the computer until its power indicator turns off. 2 Press the power button to return to normal mode.
VAIO® Computer Connecting a Phone Line You need to connect a phone cable (not supplied) to take advantage of online services and the Internet. ✍ In order to register your VAIO® computer, register your software online, and use Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line. How to connect a phone cable 1 Open the phone line jack cover, located on the left side of the computer near the front. Use care when opening the phone jack cover. Opening it too far may result in damage to the unit.
Connecting a Phone Line 2 Plug one end of the phone cable into the jack on the inside of the phone line jack cover. Make sure you insert the phone cable from the rear of the computer and that the modular jack clicks into place. 3 Plug the other end into the wall jack.
VAIO® Computer Connecting to a LAN You can connect your computer to 10Base-T and 100Base-TX-type Local Area Networks (LANs) by using the computer’s Ethernet port. For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Ethernet port Warning: Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the Ethernet port. Do not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line.
Connecting to a LAN To set up your ethernet connection Before you connect to a network, you must enter information about the country or region you are located in. This information allows your modem to operate according to the standards of the phone system in your area. In Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition, there are two places you must enter location information for your modem.
VAIO® Computer To set the Modem’s Country/region 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, click Control Panel, and click the Printers and Other Hardware category icon. The Printers and Other Hardware panel appears. 2 Click the Phone and Modem Options control panel icon. Phone and Modem Options appears. 3 Click the Modems tab. 4 Select your modem from the Modem list. 5 Click Properties. The Modem Properties dialog box appears. 6 Click the Advanced tab.
Connecting to a Wireless LAN Connecting to a Wireless LAN Your computer is equipped with a built-in mini PCI card that allows for wireless connections. With Sony’s Wireless Local Area Network (LAN) functionality, all compatible digital devices can communicate freely without cable connections. A Wireless LAN is a network in which a mobile user can connect to a LAN through a wireless (radio) connection. You can opt to purchase a Wireless LAN Access Point to set up a LAN.
VAIO® Computer You can also connect an 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. ✍ For information on available Sony products, go to: http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan. Communicating with Access Point (infrastructure) An infrastructure network is one that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an Access Point.
Connecting to a Wireless LAN 3 Click View Available Wireless Networks. The Connect to Wireless Network dialog box appears. Connecting to a wireless LAN 4 Select the network you want to use. 5 Type the Network Key. See your network administrator for this information. 6 Click Connect.
VAIO® Computer Communicating via Wireless LAN Access Point Access Point (not supplied) Communicating without Access Point (ad-hoc) An ad-hoc network is one in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other central controller or Acess Point. Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network. You can set up an ad-hoc network easily at home.
Connecting to a Wireless LAN 4 Cick the Advanced button. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears. Setting Wireless Network Connection Properties 5 Select the Wireless Networks tab. 6 Click the Add... button. The Wireless Network Properties dialog box appears. 7 Enter a Network name (SSID). Choose a 6-digit name. 8 Check the box to select Data encryption (WEP enabled). 9 Check the box to select Network Authentication (Shared mode).
VAIO® Computer 11 Fill in the Network key. Choose a 5-digit name. 12 Click OK. Your new Network name appears in the Preferred networks window. 13 Click Advanced. The Advanced dialog box appears. 14 Select the option “Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only. 15 Click Close. 16 Click OK. Turning Off Wireless LAN To turn off Wireless LAN functionality, locate the Wireless LAN switch that is located on the left side of the computer, above the PC Card slot. Move the switch to the OFF position.
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: ❑ Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive ❑ Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive ❑ Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive ❑ Connecting a USB Mouse ❑ Connecting VAIO Computers ❑ Connecting an i.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive You can connect an optional floppy disk drive (FDD) to the USB computer. port on your To connect the floppy disk drive ✍ You do not need to shut down the computer before connecting or disconnecting the floppy disk drive. Before removing the FDD, see “To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is on” for more information. Plug the USB cable from the floppy disk drive into the USB port on the computer.
Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive To insert a floppy disk 1 Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up. 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 light turns off, and then press the Eject button to remove the disk.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 5 Confirm the correct device is selected in the “Stop a Hardware device” dialog box. 6 The message, “Floppy Disk Drive can now be safely removed from the system” appears. Click OK. 7 Unplug the floppy disk drive from the computer. To carry the floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk cable into the compartment on the right side. Notes on handling floppy disks ❑ Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the disk.
Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive You can use an optional optical drive, such as a Sony DVD-ROM or CD-ROM drive, with your computer. If you use an optional drive when your computer is running on battery power, the battery life will be shorter. The drive draws power from the computer through a PC Card. If you connect a non-Sony DVD drive to your VAIO® computer, the DVD playback may not function properly. The bundled DVD software must be installed to play a DVD.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 3 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the SONY logo facing up. See “Using PC Cards” for details. Inserting PC Card Make sure logo faces up ✍ A protective cover is attached to the lens of the optical drive at the factory. Before using the optical drive, remove the protective cover. To insert a disc 1 Press the Eject button. The disc tray slides out.
Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive 2 Place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up. 3 Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks into place. Inserting Disc Disc 4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently. The Busy indicator on the drive flashes while your computer is reading data from the disc. Flashing Busy Indicator Busy indicator To remove the drive Remove the PC Card from the computer. See “To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is on” for more information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Notes on CD and DVD discs Handling CD or DVD discs ❑ Do not touch the surface of the disc. ❑ Do not drop or bend the disc. ❑ Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your discs. Adhesive labels may come off while the disc is in use in your optical drive, and may cause damage to the unit. Cleaning CD or DVD discs ❑ Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause data reading errors.
Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive You can use an optional i.LINK®* optical disc drive, such as a Sony DVD-ROM or CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive, with your computer. This Sony VAIO® computer is preinstalled with software that enables you to create CDs and play DVD movies. The i.LINK optical disc drive draws power from the computer through the power cable that is integrated with the VAIO computer Peripheral Cable. This peripheral cable connects to both the i.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. drive. Secure the plug by turning the screw on the cable connector clockwise. Connecting i.LINK optical disc drive L-shaped cable connector i.LINK cable i.LINK port Peripheral device DC Out jack 2 Insert the straight-shaped, two-prong plug of the VAIO® computer peripheral cable into both the computer’s i.LINK port and peripheral device DC Out jack. 3 The i.
Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive Notes on using i.LINK optical disc drives ❑ You can use the supplied Application Recovery, Driver Recovery, and System Recovery CDs with an i.LINK optical disc drive. See “Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs” for more information. ❑ Do not use an optional i.LINK optical disc drive and an optional optical disc drive with PC Card at the same time. Connecting both drives may cause a system malfunction.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Mouse You can connect an optional USB mouse, such as the Sony PCGA-UMS1 series, to your computer. To connect a USB mouse Plug the mouse cable into the USB port. PCGA-UMS1 series drivers have already been installed. Connecting a USB Mouse USB Mouse (optional) To USB port ✍ A serial mouse or PS/2® mouse is not compatible with the VAIO® C1 PictureBook® computer.
Connecting VAIO Computers Connecting VAIO Computers Connecting with i.LINK You can use an optional i.LINK®* cable to connect your VAIO® computer to another VAIO computer that has the preinstalled Microsoft® Windows® operating system or the Sony Smart Connect software preinstalled. 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. You can also print from a printer that is attached to either computer.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an i.LINK Device Your VAIO® computer includes an i.LINK®* S400 (IEEE1394) port, which you can use to connect a compatible i.LINK device, such as an i.LINK enabled digital video camera recorder. See the manual supplied with your digital video camera recorder for more information on its installation and use. ✍ You can purchase compatible i.LINK cables from your local retailer, through the Sony VAIO® Direct Web site (http://vaio.
Connecting an i.LINK Device To connect a digital camcorder ❑ Plug one end of an i.LINK® cable into the S400 port on the left side of the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out port on the digital camcorder. Connecting a Digital Camcorder To S400 Digital camcorder To S400 to DV In/Out i.LINK cable (optional) Notes on connecting an i.LINK device ❑ A connection to a Sony digital camcorder is pictured above; your digital camcorder may need to be connected differently.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. ❑ Do not connect more than one digital video camera at a time. The software supplied with your computer will not recognize multiple cameras. ❑ The i.LINK port does not supply power to external devices. If the external device requires power from the i.LINK port, you cannot use the device with the computer.
Connecting an External Display Connecting an External Display You can connect an external display to your VAIO® computer.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To connect a computer display 1 First make sure the port replicator is connected to the computer. 2 Connect the computer display’s VGA adapter to the supplied port replicator’s Monitor port. Connecting a Display Computer display Display cable Power cord Display adapter ✍ See the manual supplied with your computer display for more information on its installation and use.
Connecting an External Display 1 First make sure the port replicator is connected to the computer. 2 Plug one end of the VGA signal cable (not supplied) into the port replicator’s Monitor port, and the other end into the projector’s corresponding port.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 3 Plug the audio cable into the Headphone jack. Connecting a Projector Computer to Headphone jack Projector Power cord Display adapter VGA signal cable (not supplied) Audio cable (not supplied) ✍ See the manual supplied with your projector for more information on its installation and use. You may not be able to display the computer’s LCD and the external display together, depending on the specific computer display or projector used.
Connecting an External Display To connect a TV Use the supplied AV cable to connect your TV monitor to your computer. 1 First make sure the port replicator is connected to the computer. 2 Plug the supplied AV cable into the port replicator’s AV/TV Out jack. 3 Plug the other ends of the AV cable into the TV, as shown below. Connecting a TV TV Monitor Computer Power cord Audio In Video In Audio R Audio L Video AV cable (note supplied) ✍ See “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Printer You can connect a Windows® compatible printer to your computer to print documents. ✍ To use a printer, first install the driver software supplied with your printer. To connect a printer Plug the optional USB printer cable into the USB port on your computer and the USB port on your printer. You can also connect the USB printer cable into the USB port on the supplied port replicator.
Connecting an External Microphone Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. ✍ Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. To connect an external microphone Use the symbol to locate the red-colored Microphone jack. Plug the microphone cable into this jack. Connecting a Microphone Microphone ✍ See the manual supplied with your microphone for more information on its installation and use.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 1 Double-click on the task tray located in the lower right corner of the Desktop window. The Volume Control window appears. 2 From the Options menu, click Properties. The Properties window appears. 3 In the Adjust Volume panel, select Recording, and then click OK. The Recording Control window appears. 4 Select either Microphone or Stereo Out. ✍ When you are recording using a microphone, select Microphone.
Connecting an External Microphone To adjust sound device volume You can adjust the sound device volume for playing or recording. To adjust the volume when playing, double-click in the task tray located in the bottom right corner of the Desktop window. The Volume Control window is displayed. To adjust the sound of other devices, do the following: 1 Select Options and click Properties. 2 In the Volume Adjust window, select Playback. 3 Click the check box of the item you want to display in Control.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. To connect external speakers ❑ Use the symbol to locate the Headphone jack. Plug the speaker cable into this jack. Connecting external speakers Speakers Computer Notes on using external speakers ❑ Make sure that the speakers you purchased are designed for computer use. ❑ Before you turn on the speakers, turn down the volume.
Expanding Your Computer’s Capabilities Expanding Your Computer’s Capabilities The following peripheral devices can be connected to your computer, to expand the capabilities of your computer and enhance its versatility to meet your various business or personal needs: ❑ A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) ❑ The Wireless LAN Access Point ✍ For 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. ✍ For information on available Sony products, go to: http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan.
Customizing Your VAIO Computer You can customize the settings of your computer. The following sections briefly describe how to change your computer’s default settings. You can also refer to Sony Notebook Setup Help for more detailed information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ✍ See the manual supplied with your computer display for more information on its installation and use. To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: 1 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar. 2 Point to All Programs and 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.
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. 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 computer and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your computer’s battery power. You can also refer to PowerPanel Help for more detailed information. To activate a profile or command, see “Displaying Battery Information” for details.
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. any of 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 Camera Optimizes performance and power requirements for camera usage. 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 to optimize power management for your system. Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications.
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 the battery on your computer. The following sections briefly describe how to display your computer’s general battery information. You can also 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.
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Displaying Battery Information Displaying detailed battery information Double-click the battery icon on the task tray to display the Battery Information window. The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Changing the window design of Sony software To change the window design 1 Click the Start button, then select Control Panel. 2 In the left window pane of Control Panel, click “Switch to Classic View.” 3 Double-click UI Design Selector. 4 Click << or >> and select the desired design. 5 Click Apply. The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The window design for your Sony software will match the "UI Design Selector" window.
Selecting the Display Mode Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the Intel® video controller, which enables you to select the desired display when the notebook is connected to an external monitor. When you connect an external display, you can switch the display mode between your notebook’s LCD display and the external monitor. To select the display mode 1 Click Start, then point to Control Panel. 2 Click Display to access the Display Properties window.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 4 Click the Intel® Graphics Technology tab, then click the Graphics Properties button. If you want to use the TV as a display, deselect the Synchronous Display Mode box and click Apply. You cannot use the TV and another display simultaneously. 5 Click the Device tab. 6 Select the type of display.
Adding Memory In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your computer. See the Specifications flyer supplied with your computer for the amount of memory preinstalled on your computer. Expansion memory modules are available as options. For memory upgrades, use only PC100 (CL2) SDRAM SP-DIMM modules.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Precautions and Procedures The procedures described below assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Sony recommends that memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, go to: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Removing a Memory Module Removing a Memory Module 1 Turn off the computer and all peripheral devices. 2 Disconnect the power cord and all cables from the computer, and remove the battery. 3 Wait for the computer to cool down. ✍ The interior of the computer becomes extremely hot during operation. Wait at least one hour for the computer to cool down before you remove the screws. 4 Use an appropriate screwdriver to loosen and remove the four screws at the bottom of the computer.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start 6 Slide the keyboard toward the LCD display, then lift it away slightly. Lifting the Keyboard 7 Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side. 8 Gently turn the keyboard over the touchpad. Take care not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard. 9 Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your computer) to discharge static electricity. 10 Remove the memory module by pulling out the tabs (see arrows No.
Removing a Memory Module 12 Close the computer cover and replace the four (4) fastening screws on the bottom of the computer.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Installing a Memory Module To add a memory module, proceed as follows: 1 Turn off the computer and all peripheral devices. 2 Disconnect the power cord and all cables from the computer, and remove the battery. 3 Wait for the computer to cool down. ✍ The interior of the computer becomes extremely hot during operation. Wait at least one hour for the computer to cool down before you remove the screws.
Installing a Memory Module 6 Slide the keyboard toward the LCD display, then lift it away slightly. Lifting the Keyboard 7 Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side. 8 Gently turn the keyboard over the touchpad. Take care not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard. 9 Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your computer) to discharge static electricity. 10 Remove the existing memory module. 11 Remove the new memory module from its packaging.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start 12 Install the memory module by sliding the module into the open slot. Do not touch any part of the motherboard or the other components inside the computer. Installing New Memory Module 13 Snap the connectors into place when the board is correctly seated. 14 Close the computer cover and replace the four (4) fastening screws on the bottom of the computer.
Confirming Added Memory Capacity Confirming Added Memory Capacity 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, point to All Programs, and then click Sony Notebook Setup. 3 Click the About This Notebook tab. Verify that the System Memory displayed in the left panel matches the amount of memory installed. ✍ If the amount of memory is not correct, shut down the computer, and reinstall the memory module. See “Removing a Memory Module” and “Installing a Memory Module” for instructions.
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About the Software on Your Computer Your VAIO® computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and communicate as soon as you turn it on.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Overview Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software listed below, depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled software may not be identical to retail versions, or include supporting documentation. Adobe Acrobat® Reader™ Adobe Systems Inc.
About the Software on Your Computer ArcSoft PhotoPrinter® 2000 Pro ArcSoft, Inc. ArcSoft PhotoPrinter 2000 is an easy-to-use, advanced printing program that lets you quickly lay out multiple images in multiple sizes on a single sheet of paper. PhotoPrinter Pro offers a wide selection of templates including landscape, portrait, free style, mixed sizes, custom templates and more.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Microsoft® Internet Explorer Microsoft Corp. Internet Explorer delivers the Web the way you want it. It is safe, easy to use, and you can personalize how you access the Web. Outlook Express and other tools in Internet Explorer also help you have a great experience when you are on the Web. Microsoft® Word Microsoft Corp. Microsoft Word makes it easy to create shared Web, e-mail, and print documents for use around the world.
About the Software on Your Computer Real Jukebox® RealNetworks Inc. RealJukebox is one of the world’s most widely used personal music management systems. Using RealJukebox,you can capture the contents of a music CD, manage and play back your music, and view various music-related information via the Internet. This Custom RealJukebox for Sony allows seamless check-out capabilities to a wide range of Sony personal audio devices, and offers convenient links to Sony product and music service home pages.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Smart Capture Premium Sony Electronics Inc. Sony’s Smart Capture Premium application supports still image and video capture from the built-in Sony MOTION EYE™ camera, an analog Video In device such as a VCR, TV, or Playstation®, or a digital video device connected to the PC through an i.LINK or USB interface. Transfer your compressed video or still images through e-mail, upload them to the ImageStationSM service, or export to MovieShaker™ software for further video editing fun.
About the Software on Your Computer WinDVD® InterVideo Inc. WinDVD is a simple-to-use DVD player including all the features you would expect to find in a standard consumer DVD player, while also offering advanced display and navigation features such as zoom, pan, bookmark, and time search.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start DVgate application notes Digital video captures If your system displays the message, “Failed to record to DV deck, please check deck’s power status, cable connection…,” while you are recording images to a digital video device using DVgate software, close all open applications, and restart your computer. Frequent recording of images to a digital video device while using DVgate may cause this situation to occur. For more information on DVgate software, see the DVgate online help.
DVgate application notes Select the drive you want to defragment from the list, and click the Defragment button. See Windows® Help for more information on defragmenting.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs Your computer is supplied with the following application, driver, 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. You must connect an optional optical disc drive to use the Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs. 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.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start your computer, hardware, or software application. VAIO Support Agent, an application repair utility, uses a vault feature on the Driver Recovery CD during its software healing process. ✍ If you need to reinstall all of the software applications that shipped with your computer, use the System Recovery CD. You must be in Windows® to run the Driver Recovery CD utility. Reinstalling specific drivers with the Driver Recovery CD 1 Turn on your computer.
Using Your Recovery CDs 6 Click with the left mouse button to highlight the unknown device (identified by a yellow question mark) or the device for which you wish to reinstall the driver. Device Manager screen 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. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and click Turn Off Computer, then Restart.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Reinstalling all drivers with the Driver Recovery CD 1 Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all applications. 2 When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Driver Recovery CD into the optical disc drive. 3 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then Control Panel. The Control Panel window appears. 4 Click Performance and Maintenance, then System. The System Properties dialog box appears. 5 From the Hardware tab, click Device Manager.
Using Your Recovery CDs Properties dialog box 8 Click Reinstall Driver. The Hardware Update Wizard appears. 9 Click Next. The wizard will search for the correct driver on your Driver Recovery CD. 10 When the recovery process is complete, click Finish. Some drivers will require that you reboot the computer to complete installation. To use the System Recovery CD(s) This CD restores your computer to its original state, so user data and applications will be lost.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start You can use the System Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the operating system and software titles that shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or erased. You may not need to reinstall the entire contents of your hard disk drive. If you experience a problem with your computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may correct the problem.
Using Your Recovery CDs 3 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu. 4 Press the arrow keys to select “Get Default Values” and then press the Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears. 5 Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key. 6 Press the arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes) and then press the Enter key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears. 7 Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key.
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Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). ❑ Troubleshooting Your Computer ❑ Troubleshooting the LCD Screen ❑ Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad ❑ Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices ❑ Troubleshooting i.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting Your Computer My computer does not start. ❑ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer indicates that the power is on. ❑ Check that the battery pack is inserted properly and is charged. ❑ If you have connected an external floppy disk drive, make sure there is no floppy disk in the floppy disk drive.
Troubleshooting Your Computer 5 Select Yes and press Enter. 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 computer restarts. My computer starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start. ❑ If you have connected an external floppy disk drive, make sure there is no floppy disk in the floppy disk drive (non-bootable).
VAIO® Computer Quick Start My computer stops responding or does not shut down. It is best to shut down your computer using the Turn Off Computer command on the Windows Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed here, may result in loss of unsaved data. ❑ Try restarting the computer. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, click Turn Off Computer, and then click Restart.
Troubleshooting Your Computer The sound of my computer’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. Why does the System Properties dialog box display a slower CPU speed than advertised? This is normal.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting the LCD Screen My LCD screen is blank. ❑ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. ❑ Check that the power indicator on the computer is on. ❑ Check that the battery pack is inserted properly and that it is charged. ❑ The computer may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode. Press any key to activate the screen. ❑ The display mode may be set to external display mode. Press and hold the Fn key while pressing F7 several times.
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 cable is plugged into the USB port. See “Connecting a USB Mouse” for details. Note that a serial mouse or PS/2® mouse is not compatible with this computer. ❑ If you connect an external mouse while your computer is on, you must restart your computer.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start The pointer does not move while I am using the Touchpad or Mouse. ❑ The computer should be restarted. Follow these steps: 1 Press the Windows key. 2 Press the “U” key to select Turn Off Computer / Shut Down, and wait at least four seconds. 3 Press the “R” key to restart your computer. ❑ If you cannot turn off your notebook as described in the step above, press Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously and click Turn Off Computer / Shut Down on the Windows® dialog box.
Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive icon doesn’t appear even though it is connected. ❑ Make sure that the floppy disk drive is properly connected. Wait a few moments to allow the computer to recognize the drive. ❑ Close all open applications and restart your computer with the connected floppy disk drive.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start 2 Select the Hardware tab and then click the Device Manager button. The Device Manager window appears. 3 Double-click the DVD/CD-ROM drive name. The Properties window appears. 4 Click the Properties tab, and then select the “Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device” check box. ❑ Do not use adhesive labels to identify the CD. The label may come off while the disc is in use in the optical drive and cause the drive to malfunction.
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).
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See the “About the Software on Your Computer”section for more information. When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application CD into your CD-ROM (DVD-ROM) drive” appears, and the software does not start. ❑ Make sure that your optical drive is connected to your computer.
Troubleshooting Software What software do I use for CD-R/CD-RW software functions? Sony recommends using the preinstalled SonicStage software’s Record function to create any CDs on your VAIO® computer, if the specific model you purchased is preconfigured with all necessary components for CD-R and CD-RW capability. Downloading the optional RealJukebox CD-burning component to create any CDs on your computer may interfere with normal system operations.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting the Modem My modem does not work. ❑ Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See “Connecting a Phone Line” for details. ❑ Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone. ❑ Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. ❑ Check that the software you are using is compatible with the computer’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.
Troubleshooting Wireless LAN functions Troubleshooting Wireless LAN functions I cannot use the Wireless LAN functionality. Check if the Wireless LAN switch on the left side of the computer is in the ON position. The computer cannot connect to a Wireless LAN Access Point. ❑ Check if the Wireless LAN switch on the left side of the computer is in the ON position. ❑ Check if power to the Access Point is on. ❑ Check if the Access Point is displayed in the “Available networks” window.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start configurations, radio conditions, and software compatibility. To maximize the data transfer speed, move your computer away from obstructions or nearer to any Access Point you may be using. ❑ If you are using a Wireless LAN Access Point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on the number of other devices communicating via the access point. The communication speed is interrupted or slowed down when MPEG2 data is transferred.
Troubleshooting Audio Troubleshooting Audio My speakers have no sound. ❑ If the built-in speakers are turned off, press the Fn+F3 keys to turn on the speakers. You can also turn on the speakers using the Jog Dial control. ❑ If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press the Fn+F4 keys, and then press to increase the volume or you can use the Jog Dial or control to control the volume.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start 1 Right-click the CPU icon on the bottom right of the taskbar, and click “Edit/create profiles. The Profile editor window appears. 2 In the left portion of the window, click the power management profile you want to set. Maximum Battery Life is the default selection when your computer runs on battery power. 3 In the right portion of the window, double-click CPU Control. The list of CPU control options appears. 4 Click Performance. 5 Click the File menu and select Save.
Troubleshooting Memory Stick Media Troubleshooting Memory Stick Media Image files do not open even though I insert Memory Stick media into the slot. ❑ By the default setting, VisualFlow™ software starts automatically when you insert Memory Stick® media into the slot. ❑ If VisualFlow software is active and the image files in Memory Stick media are not displayed, the format type of the Memory Stick media can be different.
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Getting Help Sony provides you with several support options to answer questions about your VAIO® computer or the preinstalled software. Refer to these resources in the order they are listed.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Support Options 1 VAIO® User Guide and VAIO® Quick Start The online VAIO® Computer User Guide and printed VAIO® Computer Quick Start provide you with information on how to maximize your computer capabilities and solve common problems. To access the online user guide, click Start on the Windows® taskbar, select Help and Support, and click on VAIO User Guide. The Quick Start is supplied in the box with your computer.
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: 1-8884-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.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Software Support Information Adobe Acrobat® Reader™, Photoshop® Elements (Adobe Systems, Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PST America Online® (America Online, Inc.) Web site http://www.aol.com phone 800-827-3338 hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Apple QuickTime™ (Apple Computer Inc.) Web site http://www.apple.
Software Support Information Web site http://www.antivirus.com/pc-cillin/ phone 949-387-7800 e-mail support@trendmicro.com hours M - F 8 AM - 5 PM (PST) Quicken® (Intuit Inc.) Web site http://www.intuit.com/support phone 800-644-3193 hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day RealJukebox®, RealPlayer (Real Networks, Inc.) Web site(s) http://service.real.com/rjoptions.html http://service.real.com/help/call.html Sony Applications (Sony Electronics Inc.) Web site http://www.sony.
VAIO® Computer Quick Start Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972) or find Sony Computing Service on the Web at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
A About This Computer tab 75 AC power setting 78 adding hardware 45 memory 87 peripherals 45 printers 66 adjusting brightness 17 volume 17 Alt key 14 Application Recovery CD 107 Applications key 14 audio adjusting volume 17 troubleshooting 131 Audio tab 75 B battery packs charge status icons 81 conserving battery power 80 BatteryScope utility 81 brightness adjusting 17 built-in speaker 17 volume 17 buttons Start (Windows) 74 C camera digital video camcorder canceling commands 13 Caps Lock indicator light
Change text in this variable definition to document title. inserting 50 CD-ROM drive closing lid 51 connecting 29, 49 using 49 cleaning CD or DVD discs 52 coin-operated telephones 35 computer connecting to another 57 expanding capabilities 71 setup screen 74 Connecting Ethernet 36 LAN 36 connecting another VAIO computer 57 CD-ROM drive 29, 49 coin-operated telephones 35 digital video recorder 59 external display 61 external mouse 56 external speakers 70 floppy disk drive 46 i.LINK device 58 i.
Ctrl key 14 cursor-movement keys 13 D digital video camera 59 display connecting an external mode 85 Driver Recovery CD 107 drives 49 CD-ROM 49 floppy disk 46 optical 49 troubleshooting 123 DV In/Out 59 DVD-ROM drive tray troubleshooting 124 DVgate applications 104 61 E Eject button 47 ejecting floppy disks 47 Escape key 13 expanding notebook capabilities external display 61 microphone 67 mouse 56 speakers 70 71 F floppy disk drive connecting 46 disconnecting 30, 47 floppy disks ejecting 47 handling 4
Change text in this variable definition to document title. function keys 13, 14 G Guide mode 21 H handling CD or DVD discs 52 floppy disks 48 hardware online support 136 headphone connector 64 help getting 135 Hibernate mode 18, 32 I i.LINK 59 connecting an i.LINK device notes on 59 i.
L LAN connecting to 36 Launcher mode 20 LCD troubleshooting 120 M MagicGate 24 Maximum Battery Life power setting 78 Maximum Performance power setting 78 memory adding 87 confirming added capacity 95 removing 89 memory module installing 29 Memory Stick notes on 27 troubleshooting 133 using 24 VisualFlow 26 Memory Stick card slot 24 Memory Stick media displaying contents 25 microphone external 67 troubleshooting 132 modem troubleshooting 128 monitor connecting 61 switching among 17 mouse connecting 56 troub
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Standby 17, 32 power setting AC 78 Maximum Battery Life 78 Maximum Performance 78 Power Management Off 78 Standby 80 Video Standby 80 PowerPanel activating 76 customizing toolbar 78, 80 Print Screen key 13 printer connecting 66 port 66 projector 62 R Recovery CD 107 removing floppy disk drive 30, floppy disks 47 memory module 89 restoring data 107 47 S Scroll Lock indicator light 16 setting up your PC support 136 setup screen About This Computer tab 75 Audio tab 75 displaying 74 Power On Password tab 75
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V VAIO Action Setup 19 VAIO® Action Setup 20 video camera 59 VisualFlow 26 volume adjusting 17 W window design of Sony software Windows Explorer 14 Find window 15 help 14 key 14 key combinations 14 taskbar 118 Wireless LAN 39, 71 84 149
