Welcome.......................................................7 Using Your VAIO Notebook........................9 Using the Keyboard...................................................10 Functions of the keyboard keys .........................................11 Combinations and functions with the Windows key .........12 Indicators ...........................................................................13 Indicator lights ...................................................................
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Weight Saver ............................................ 37 To attach the weight saver ................................................ 37 To remove the weight saver .............................................. 38 Using Power Saving Modes...................................... 39 Normal mode..................................................................... 39 Standby mode..............................................................
Connecting a TV Display ..........................................56 To connect a TV ................................................................56 Changing the display resolution for TV Out .....................56 Notes on TV display ..........................................................57 Connecting a USB Device.........................................58 To connect a USB device...................................................58 Connecting an i.LINK Device...................................
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Displaying Battery Information ................................ 75 To activate the Battery Information toolbar...................... 75 Battery icon descriptions................................................... 75 To display detailed battery information ............................ 76 To customize the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system.....................................................................................
Troubleshooting ......................................105 Troubleshooting Your Notebook ............................106 My notebook does not start..............................................106 My notebook starts, but a BIOS error is displayed..........106 My notebook starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start....................107 My notebook stops responding or does not shut down....108 The Power Management setting is not responding. .........
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 115 My PC Card is not working. ........................................... 115 Troubleshooting Software....................................... 116 My software program stops responding or crashes......... 116 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............................................... 116 I cannot use the DVgate software. ...........
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the VAIO Notebook 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 Floppy Disk Drive ❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive ❑ Using PC Cards ❑ Using a Second Battery Pack ❑ Using the Weight Saver ❑ Using Power Saving Modes ❑ Connecting a Phone Line ❑ Connecting to a LAN 9
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the 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. 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.) Navigation keys Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the screen.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Key Description Windows key The key with the Windows® logo displays the Windows Start menu; it is the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the taskbar. See “Combinations and functions with the Windows key” for more information. Fn key The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to issue commands. See “Combinations and functions with the Fn key” for more information.
Using the Keyboard Combination Function Shift + Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. +M +R Fn + Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of selecting Run from the Start menu. + Insert Displays the System Properties window. This is the equivalent of selecting Control Panel and then System from the Start menu.
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+ (ESC) Standby Puts the system into Standby mode, a power management state. To return the system to the active state, press any key.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combinations/ Feature Fn+ LCD only/ (F8) Control TV 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 Right button Left button Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object. Click Press the left button once. Double-click Press the left button twice.
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.
Using the Floppy Disk Drive Using the Floppy Disk Drive Your notebook is supplied with the floppy disk drive in the multipurpose bay. 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To remove a floppy disk 1 After you finish using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator turns off. 2 Press the Eject button to remove the floppy disk. Removing a floppy disk Eject button LED indicator ✍ Do not push the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost. To remove the floppy disk drive 1 Turn off the notebook. 2 Locate the release lever on the bottom of the notebook.
Using the Floppy Disk Drive 3 Slide the lever in the direction of the arrow. Multipurpose bay release lever Multipurpose bay release lever 4 Slide the floppy disk drive out of the multipurpose bay. 5 Insert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” for more information. To reinsert the floppy disk drive 1 Turn off the notebook. 2 If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack” for more information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 4 Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the release lever locks into place.
Using the Optical Disc Drive Using the Optical Disc Drive Your notebook comes with an optical disc drive, either a CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive or DVD-ROM drive, depending on the model you purchased. Do not use adhesive labels to identify your discs. Adhesive labels may come off while the disc is in use in the optical drive, and may cause damage to the drive. To insert a disc When the notebook is in Standby or Hibernate mode, you cannot insert a disc.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 4 Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage the optical drive and you may not be able to open the tray. Inserting an optical disc Label side facing up 5 Close the tray by pushing it gently. To remove a disc When the notebook is in power saving modes, you cannot remove a disc.
Using the Optical Disc Drive 3 If the disc does not come out when you press the Eject button, turn off the notebook and insert a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip) into the manual eject hole. Manually removing a disc To play a DVD To play a DVD, you may use the optical disc drive and the preinstalled WinDVD® software. For more information on WinDVD, see the Help menu in the WinDVD application. ✍ Before you use the optical disc drive to play a DVD, quit any open applications.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. to the proper dimensions. Also see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. ❑ If the notebook is set to the default display setting, part of the video screen will not appear. To view the entire screen, adjust the display resolution to 640 x 480. See “Connecting a TV Display” for more information. ❑ The screen resolution must be set to 640 x 480 dots in order to play a DVD while using the TV Out jack.
Using the Optical Disc Drive ❑ When playing DVD movies on battery power, set the power management profile to DVD. With other profiles, the movies are choppy. As an alternative, you can set the power management profile to Automatic Profile Selection, which will cause the DVD profile to be selected automatically whenever you insert a DVD. See “Controlling Power Management” for information on how to set the power management profile.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To write data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc* You can use Sony SonicStage and Microsoft® Windows® XP to write data to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. To create a CD-R disc that is readable in a CD-ROM drive, make sure you finish the writing process before ejecting it. For more information, see the instructions included with Windows® XP. ❑ For optimal writing speed, deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data to a disc.
Using PC Cards Using PC Cards Your notebook includes two PC Card slots. PC Cards enable you to connect portable external devices such as another hard disk drive, or to connect to a network. The PC Card slots can accommodate two Type I/II PC Cards, or one Type III PC Card. These slots are compatible with CardBus. Use the lower slot for Type III PC Cards. You do not need to shut down your notebook before inserting or removing a PC Card. To insert a PC card 1 Push the Release button.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 2 Press the Release button a second time. The PC Card slot protector pops out. ✍ When you use a Type III PC Card, you need to remove both the top and bottom PC Card slot protectors. PC Card slot protector 3 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot. 4 Verify that the front label of the PC Card is facing up.
Using PC Cards 5 Push the PC Card slot gently into the port. Your system automatically detects the PC Card. The Unplug or Eject Hardware icon appears in the taskbar. Inserting a PC Card Insert with the arrow facing toward the slot PC Card Do not force a PC Card into the slot as this may damage the connector pins.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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. Reboot 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.
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 second battery pack you insert charges 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. 5 Slide the lever toward the front of the notebook to lock the weight saver. See also “Using the Weight Saver” for more information. Using weight saver for second battery cover Battery pack Weight saver To charge the second battery pack Keep the battery pack in the notebook while it is connected to AC power. The battery automatically charges as long as the notebook is connected to AC power and turned on.
Using a Second Battery Pack 3 When the battery is 85 percent full, the battery indicator turns off. ✍ To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an additional hour. See “Displaying Battery Information” for more information. Charging the second battery Battery indicators ✍ To determine the amount of time the battery lasts, see “Displaying Battery Information” for more information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 4 Slide the lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the release lever on the bottom of the notebook in the direction of arrow 2. Multipurpose bay release levers Arrow 1: Weight saver release lever Arrow 2: Release lever 5 Remove the weight saver, and then pull out the battery pack. 6 Reinsert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” for more information.
Using the Weight Saver Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty. To attach the weight saver 1 If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack” for more information. 2 Fold out the hinged arm of the weight saver and then push on the hinged arm to lock it into place. Slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow until it clicks.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To remove the weight saver 1 Locate the release lever on the bottom of the weight saver. 2 Slide this lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the release lever on the bottom of the notebook in the direction of arrow 2. Multipurpose bay release levers Arrow 1: Weight saver release lever Arrow 2: Release lever 3 38 After removing the weight saver, pull out the weight saver’s hinged arm and fold it into the weight saver.
Using Power Saving Modes 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 notebook enters Hibernate mode. ✍ Do not move the notebook until its power indicator turns off. 2 Press on the power button to return to normal mode.
Connecting a Phone Line Connecting a Phone Line You need to connect a phone cable (supplied with selected models) 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 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 4 Follow the step-by-step instructions that appear on the screen.
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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 a Port Replicator ❑ Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard ❑ Connecting a Parallel Port Printer ❑ Connecting a USB Printer ❑ Connecting an External Display ❑ Connecting a TV Display ❑ Connecting a USB Device ❑ Connecting an i.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a Port Replicator Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator (such as the Sony PCGA-PRFX1 model). Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your notebook.
Connecting a Port Replicator 1 Turn off your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices. 2 On the bottom of the notebook, slide the port replicator connector cover open. Port replicator connector Port replicator connector 3 Attach the bottom of the notebook to the port replicator connector until it clicks. Attaching notebook to port replicator Notebook Port replicator (not supplied) 4 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC IN jack on the port replicator.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 5 Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. The power indicator turns green. Connecting AC adapter to port replicator AC adapter Power cord ✍ Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook, or an optional Sony adapter. Power indicator Release lever Power Port replicator connector 6 48 Turn on the notebook.
Connecting a Port Replicator 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 disengage the notebook from the port replicator. Disengaging notebook from port replicator Lever 3 Lift the notebook away from the port replicator. Lifting notebook 4 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your notebook.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an 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. You can only connect one external device at a time. Therefore, you cannot connect both a PS/2 mouse and PS/2 keyboard simultaneously. ✍ Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or keyboard, turn off the notebook. To connect an external mouse or keyboard 1 Turn off your notebook.
Connecting a Parallel Port Printer Connecting a Parallel Port Printer You can connect a Windows® compatible printer to your notebook to print documents. To connect a printer 1 Locate the Printer port identified by the symbol. 2 Plug the printer cable (supplied with the printer) into this port on the notebook. 3 See the manual supplied with your printer for more information on its installation and use.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Printer You can connect a Windows® compatible Universal Serial Bus (USB) printer to either of your notebook’s two USB ports to print documents. ✍ To use a printer, first install the driver software supplied with your printer. To connect a USB printer 1 Plug the optional USB printer cable into one of the two USB ports on your notebook and the USB port on your printer.
Connecting an External Display Connecting an External Display You can connect external display devices such as a computer display (monitor), multimedia computer display, and projector to your notebook. ✍ A 1400 x 1050 screen resolution and 16-bit color mode when using an external display may not be fully supported on some external displays. To connect a computer display 1 Locate the Monitor jack identified by the notebook.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 1 Locate the Monitor jack identified by the symbol. 2 Plug the display cable into this jack. 3 Locate the Headphone jack identified by the 4 Plug the speaker cable into this jack. 5 Locate the Microphone jack identified by the 6 Plug the microphone cable into this jack. 7 See the manual that came with your multimedia computer display for more information on its installation and use. symbol. symbol.
Connecting an External Display To select a display When you connect an external display to the monitor jack, you can toggle the output between the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), the external monitor, or both devices. 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 jack, or both the LCD and external display.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a TV Display You can enjoy playing audio/video by connecting optional AV devices to your notebook. See also the manuals supplied with your AV devices for more information on their installation and use. To connect a TV 1 Connect the notebook to a TV using audio/video cables. 2 Switch the input channel of the TV to external input.
Connecting a TV Display 1 First ensure that your notebook has been started with the TV Out jack plugged in. 2 Click Start, select Control Panel, and then click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. 3 Click on the Settings tab, and click the Advanced button. The Sony Notebook LCD... dialog box appears. 4 Click on the Intel® Graphics Technology tab. 5 Click on the Graphics Properties... button. The Intel®... Controller Properties dialog box appears.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Device You can connect USB devices 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. Use the same procedure for connecting all USB devices. 1 Locate the USB device identified by the symbol. 2 Plug one end of the USB cable into this port and the other end into the USB device.
Connecting an i.LINK Device Connecting an i.LINK Device Your VAIO® Notebook 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://www.sonystyle.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To connect a digital video camera recorder 1 Plug one end of the i.LINK cable (not supplied) into the i.LINK port on the left side of the notebook 2 Next, plug 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 To DV In/Out i.LINK cable (optional) Notes on i.
Connecting an i.LINK Device ❑ The i.LINK features available may vary depending on the software applications you use. See the documentation that accompanied your software for more information. ❑ The i.LINK cables compatible with your VAIO notebook include cables with the following part numbers: VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end), VMC-IL4615 (a 1.5 meter-cable with a 4-pin connector at one end and a 6-pin connector at the other), and VMC-IL4408A (a 0.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting VAIO computers Connecting with i.LINK You can use an optional i.LINK®* cable to connect your VAIO® notebook 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.
Connecting External Speakers Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your notebook by connecting external speakers. See the manual that accompanied your 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 your external speakers ❑ Verify your speakers are designed for computer use.
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 accompanied your microphone for more information on its installation and use. ✍ Verify that your microphone is designed for computer use. The microphone should be compliant with the plug-in power microphone. To connect an external microphone 1 Locate the Microphone jack identified by the notebook.
Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), Wireless LAN Access Point, and Wireless LAN PC Card peripheral device 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. Personal Digital Assistant A handheld PDA is the quintessential personal planner and entertainment center that fits in your pocket.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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. The Wireless LAN PC Card can be used with or without the Access Point. With the Access Point, you can build a wireless LAN between computers that are equipped with the Wireless LAN PC Card and gain access to the Internet.
Customizing Your VAIO Notebook The following sections briefly describe how to change your notebook’s default settings: ❑ Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ❑ Controlling Power Management ❑ Displaying Battery Information ❑ Selecting the Display Mode 67
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 Point to VAIO 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. 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 notebook.
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 notebook’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 The PowerPanel™ utility 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 on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. 2 Select Toolbars from the pop-up menu, then click Battery Information.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Battery icon Battery status Fully charged Discharging No battery To display 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.
Displaying Battery Information To customize 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 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 ✍ See “Connecting an External Display” for more information. 1 Click Start, then point to Control Panel.
Selecting the Display Mode 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.
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Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook 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 supplied with your notebook for the amount of memory pre-installed. Expansion memory modules are available as options. For memory upgrades, use only PC100 (CL2) SDRAM SO-DIMM (gold lead contacts).
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Precautions and Procedures The procedures described below assume 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. Observe the proper safety precautions when installing memory modules in your notebook. See the bulleted list below.
Precautions and Procedures 128 MB Memory Models Total System Memory (MB) Slot 1 (MB) 128 128 192 128 64 256 128 128 384* 256 128 512* 256 256 Slot 2 (MB) * The 384 MB and 512 MB memory configurations may require the removal and replacement of original factory-installed memory modules.
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 the notebook and remove the battery pack(s). 3 After the 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 arrows. The memory module is released. 2 Pull the memory module in the direction of the arrow. 6 Replace the memory bay cover. 7 Tighten the screw on the memory bay cover.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Installing a Memory Module 1 Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. 2 Unplug the notebook and remove the battery pack(s). 3 After the 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.
Installing a Memory Module 7 Press the module into place until it clicks. Installing memory module 1 Slide the memory module into the slot. 1 2 2 Press the module into place until it clicks. 8 Replace the memory bay cover. 9 Tighten the screw on the cover of the memory bay.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Viewing the Amount of Memory 1 Restart the notebook. 2 Click Start on the Windows® task bar, select Help and Support, and 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 “Viewing the Amount of Memory” section.
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 Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software listed below, depending on the configuration you purchased. 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.
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 (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 VAIO Support Agent Sony Electronics Inc. VAIO Support Agent provides immediate, interactive online support. 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs Your notebook comes 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. 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. 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.
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 Reboot your computer. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and click Turn Off Computer, then Restart.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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.
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 notebook to its original state, so user data and applications will be lost.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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. You may not need to reinstall the entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a problem with your notebook, 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 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. ❑ Make sure there is no floppy disk in the floppy disk drive.
Troubleshooting Your Notebook 7 Select Yes, and then press Enter. The notebook restarts. My notebook starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start. Make sure there is no floppy disk in the floppy disk drive (non-bootable). ❑ ❑ If a non-bootable floppy disk is in the drive, follow these steps: 1 Turn off the notebook, and then remove the floppy disk. 2 Restart the notebook and confirm that Windows starts properly.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. My notebook stops responding or does not shut down. It is best to shut down your notebook 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 notebook. On the Windows taskbar, click Start, select Turn Off Computer, and then click Turn Off.
Troubleshooting Your 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. Why does the System Properties dialog box display a slower CPU speed than advertised? This is normal.
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 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 LCD Screen 1 First ensure that your notebook has been started with the TV Out jack plugged in. 2 Click Start, select Control Panel, and then click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. 3 Click on the Settings tab, and click the Advanced button. The Sony Notebook LCD... dialog box appears. 4 Click on the Intel® Graphics Technology tab. 5 Click on the Graphics Properties... button. The Intel®... Controller Properties dialog box appears.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad My mouse does not work. ❑ If you are using an external PS/2® mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the mouse port. See “Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard” for more information. ❑ If you are using an optional, compatible Sony USB mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the USB port.
Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad 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, 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 on the Windows® dialog box.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive cannot write to a floppy disk. ❑ Check that the floppy disk drive is properly inserted into the multipurpose bay. See “Using the Floppy Disk Drive” for more information. ❑ Check that a formatted floppy disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.
Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My optical drive tray does not open. ❑ Make sure 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, straight 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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See “Software Support Information” 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.
Troubleshooting Software Verify that your AOL connection still functions satisfactorily with the WAN Network Driver disabled. If you need to reverse this setting, repeat the steps above and select Enable.
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” 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. ❑ Check that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s modem.
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 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 Jog Dial control to control the volume. ❑ If nothing is displayed when you press Fn+F3 or Fn+F4. ❑ 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. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for details on using Sony Notebook Setup.
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 options 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 1 VAIO® Notebook User Guide and VAIO® Notebook Quick Start The online VAIO® Notebook User Guide and printed VAIO® Notebook Quick Start provide you with information on how to maximize your notebook 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 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: 1-8884-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.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Support Information Adobe Acrobat® Reader, eBook Reader, Photoshop® Elements, Premiere (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 Apple QuickTime™ (Apple Computer Inc.) Web site http://www.apple.com phone 800-692-7753 hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Norton AntiVirus™ (Symantec Corporation) Web site http://www.symantec.
Software Support Information RealJukebox, RealPlayer (Real Networks, Inc.) Web site(s) http://service.real.com/rjoptions.html http://service.real.com/help/call.html phone 206-674-2680 fax M-F, 8 AM-6 PM PST; Sat-Sun, 7:30 AM-4 PM PST Sony Applications (Sony Electronics Inc.) Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport phone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972)* hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972) or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Index A About This Computer tab 69 AC power setting 72 Access Point, Wireless LAN 65 adding hardware 45 memory 81 peripherals 45 printers 51, 52 adjusting brightness 15 volume 15 Alt key 11 Application Recovery CD 97 Applications key 12 attaching port replicator 46 audio troubleshooting 119 Audio tab 69 B Basic/Advanced tab 69 battery information 75 battery pack inserting a second 33 battery packs charge status icons 75 charging 34 indicator lights 13, 33 removing 33, 35 brightness adjusting 15 built-in s
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Index Smart Connect 62 IEEE1394 60 indicator lights 13 battery 13, 33 Caps Lock 14 hard drive 13 Num Lock 14 Scroll Lock 14 Insert key 11 inserting CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs PC Cards 29 second battery pack 33 installing hard drives 29 hardware 45 memory module 86 peripherals 45 23 J jacks multimedia computer display port replicator 46 N 53 K keyboard connecting external keyboard, using 10 memory module expansion 82 installing 86 removing 84 microphone connecting 64 troubleshooting 119 modem connecting a ph
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Index Printer tab 69 Touchpad tab 69 setup tabs 69 Shift key 12 Smart Connect 62 software troubleshooting 116 Software list 89 Sony Fax-on-Demand service 125 Sony Notebook Setup screen 68 Sony Service Center 127 speakers external 63 switching 15 troubleshooting 119 volume 15 Standby mode 15, 39, 74 Start button 68 support options 123 switching display 15 monitor 15 T television connecting 56 touchpad troubleshooting Touchpad tab 69 touchpad, using using 112 touchpad 17 troubleshooting audio 119 drives,
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Index 135
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