TM VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide PCV-R522DS/PCV-R526DS/PCV-R528DS
© 1999 Sony Electronics Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. All rights reserved. This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable form without prior written approval. NOTICE Updates and additions to software may require an additional charge. Subscriptions to online service providers may require a fee and credit card information.
Contents Welcome............................................................................................ 1 Features ............................................................................................. 1 Unpacking Your Computer............................................................ 3 Back Panel Overview ...................................................................... 5 Front Panel Overview .....................................................................
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Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO Digital Studio™ Computer. It is a high-performance multimedia computer that combines state-of-the-art computer functionality with the latest audio/video and information technology convergence features. Features ✍For a complete description of the specifications of your VAIO Digital Studio™ Computer, see page 32. ❑ i.LINK™ (IEEE-1394): Two built-in i.LINK ports provide you with front and rear digital connection capability. The i.
2 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide ❑ DVD drive: This new optical storage technology provides increased storage capacity and a rich multimedia computing experience. Your 6X DVD-ROM drive plays both DVDs and CDs. ❑ CD-RW drive: This drive is the ideal solution for making backups and archiving data, with the ability to store up to 650 MB* of removable, rewritable storage on a single rewritable CD. Save your movies to CD-R or CD-RW media and share videos and images with family and friends.
Unpacking Your Computer 3 Unpacking Your Computer Computer and Supplied Accessories System Unit Speakers Power Cord Phone Cable Keyboard Mouse Manuals ❑ Read Me First contains Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and supplementary information about your computer. It also includes information on how to contact software vendors. ❑ The VAIO Digital Studio™ Computer User Guide (this manual) contains features and specifications for your computer.
4 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Recovery CDs ❑ System Recovery CD(s) ❑ Application Recovery CD(s) Other ❑ Setting up your VAIO Digital Studio Computer (poster) ❑ Packet containing special product offers Software Library The Software Library contains the Microsoft software license agreement, Sony end-user license agreement, and the following CDs: ❑ VAIO® Digital Studio™ DV Tutorial ❑ Jedi Knight™: Pathways to the Force and Rogue Squadron™ 3D: Elite Missions™ ❑ Microsoft® Encarta® 99
Back Panel Overview 5 Back Panel Overview The back panel of your computer contains the connectors where you plug in supplied and optional accessories. The icons on the back panel serve as a map to help you locate the connectors on your computer. PS-2 Mouse Optional Keyboard USB Serial Power Printer/Parallel i.LINK Games/MIDI Headphones LINE IN Microphone Monitor Line Telephone ✍ For your convenience, your computer includes USB and i.
6 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Front Panel Overview The front panel of your VAIO Digital Studio Computer allows for access to the diskette, CD, DVD, and CD-RW drives. It also includes USB and i.LINK™ ports to connect USB devices, digital equipment, or other components.
Configuring Windows® 98 7 Configuring Windows® 98 The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few steps to configure the Windows 98 operating system that is already installed on your computer. You do not need to repeat these steps each time you turn on your computer. ✍ You must configure Windows 98 before you can use your computer. The on-screen instructions guide you through the configuration process. The following is an overview of the process.
8 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Registering Your Computer Take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive these benefits by registering your computer: ❑ Sony customer support—Talk to a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer. ❑ Limited warranty—Protect your investment. See “Limited Warranty Statement” in the VAIO Consumer Information Guide for details.
Using the VAIO Smart™ Keyboard and the Wheel Mouse Using the VAIO Smart™ Keyboard and the Wheel Mouse Connecting the Optional Palmrest The keyboard that comes with your computer is equipped with an optional palmrest that you can attach to your keyboard. Follow these steps to connect the palmrest. 1 2 Place the keyboard and palmrest upside down on a flat surface. 3 Move the palmrest to the right until you feel it snap into place.
10 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Changing the Function of the Programmable Buttons The six programmable buttons along the top of the keyboard are preprogrammed to perform specific functions. You can change the function of the programmable buttons as follows: 1 Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar to open the Start menu. 2 Point to Programs and click VAIO Smart™ Keyboard. ✍ Alternatively, you can click the VAIO Smart Keyboard icon in the Windows task tray.
Using the Standby Function 11 Using the Standby Function When you are done using your computer, you can put it in standby mode rather than turn it off completely. Putting the computer in standby mode allows you to return quickly to normal computer use. To put the computer in standby mode 1 Save your work and close any applications that are running. (You can leave Microsoft Windows running.
12 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Shutting Down Your Computer When you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of time, use the following procedure to shut down the computer. ! To avoid the potential loss of data, do not use the power switch to shut down the computer. To shut down your computer ✍ If you plan to shut down your computer for a short period of time, you may want to use standby mode instead. See “Using the Standby Function” on page 11.
Sony Digital Media Park Applications 13 Sony Digital Media Park Applications Media Bar™ Media Bar software is your all-in-one solution for audio/video playback. Media Bar software handles all common computer multimedia formats, and controls selected Sony devices. Media Bar software encompasses audio/video library cataloging and playlist management, in addition to digital video quality control and effects features.
14 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide i.LINK™ (IEEE-1394) Compatibility The VAIO Digital Studio computer includes i.LINK (IEEE-1394) connectors. They are located on the front and back of your system. To connect an i.LINK (IEEE-1394) device ❑ Use the symbol to locate the i.LINK connector. Plug the i.LINK device into this connector. ✍ See the manual that came with your i.LINK (IEEE-1394) equipped device for more information on setting it up and using it.
Troubleshooting 15 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 call Sony Customer Support. For more advanced troubleshooting information, see the VAIO Digital Studio Computer Reference Manual. You can download this electronic document from Sony’s website at http://www. sony.com/pcsupport.
16 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide My software program “locks up” or crashes ❑ Close the application that is currently locked up by pressing ALT+F4. ❑ Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on page 29 for a complete list of phone numbers. My CD-ROM/DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive tray does not open ❑ Make sure the computer is turned on. ❑ Press the Eject button on the drive.
Troubleshooting 17 ❑ If you see video but cannot hear audio, check all of the following: Make sure the mute setting is off in your DVD player. Check the master volume setting in the audio Mixer. Check the volume settings in your computer speakers. Check the connections between your speakers and the computer. Check the Windows Control Panel/ System/Device Manager to see that the drivers are installed properly. ❑ A dirty or damaged disc may cause the computer to “hang” while it tries to read the disc.
18 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide My modem connection is slow The computer’s modem uses K56flex™ technology/V.90. Many factors influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other modems).
Troubleshooting 19 My microphone is too sensitive to background noise If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound, you should adjust the microphone gain by following these steps: 1 Right-click the speaker icon (Volume) in the lower right Windows task tray. 2 3 Click Open Volume Controls. The Volume Control screen appears. 4 Change the setting for “Adjust volume for” from Playback to Recording, then click OK. 5 Click the Advanced button under Microphone Balance.
20 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide My mouse needs to be set up for left-hand use To set up the mouse for left-hand use: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Click the Start button to display the Start menu. Point to Settings. Click Control Panel. Double-click the Mouse icon. Click the Buttons tab. Under Buttons, select Left-handed. Click the OK button to close the Mouse Properties dialog box. My keyboard does not work Check that the keyboard is plugged into the USB connector.
Using the System Recovery CD(s) 21 Using the System Recovery CD(s) You can reinstall software titles that shipped with your computer if they are corrupted or accidentally erased. You may not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a problem with your computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may correct the problem. Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall individual applications or device drivers.
22 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide To use the System Recovery CD(s) ✍ You need to complete the Windows registration process when you use the System Recovery CD(s). Make sure you have the product ID number located on the cover of your Microsoft Windows manual. You will need this number to complete the recovery process. 1 Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive. ✍ The System Recovery utility boots from the CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drive.
Using the Application Recovery CD(s) 23 Using the Application Recovery CD(s) The Application Recovery CD(s) allows you to reinstall individual applications and device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally erased. Reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may correct a problem you are experiencing with your computer, and you may not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive.
24 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide About the Software on Your Computer Your VAIO Digital Studio computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you an overview of the activities you can perform with your software titles. For support information, see “For Answers to Your Software Questions” on page 29.
About the Software on Your Computer 25 CompuServe® 2000 CompuServe Interactive, Inc. The all new CompuServe 2000 delivers a powerful tool for Internet users who want serious and timely information, in-depth research, and professional communities backed by state-of-the-art technologies, including high-speed access and powerful e-mail messaging. Digital Media Park™ Sony Electronics An integrated suite of multimedia cataloging and playback programs including Media Bar, Media Library, and Media Showcase.
26 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Microsoft® Encarta® 99 Encyclopedia Microsoft Corporation Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia combines current, comprehensive content with up-to-date multimedia technology, providing users with unique, engaging learning experiences. With the 1999 edition, Encarta provides a wealth of information resources and unique interactive features. Microsoft® Internet Explorer for Windows® 98 Microsoft Corporation Internet Explorer delivers the web the way you want it.
About the Software on Your Computer 27 Prodigy Internet™ Prodigy Communications Corporation An Internet service that helps you find what you need online faster and smarter. Prodigy delivers powerful online content, such as sports scores, stock quotes, news, and easy access to Excite™, plus a personal e-mail account and quality customer service, all at a competitive price. Quicken® Basic 99 Intuit, Inc. Quicken is the fastest, easiest way to organize your finances.
28 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide WinFax® Basic Edition Symantec Corporation WinFax Basic Edition incorporates an easy-to-use interface that allows you to send and receive faxes easily. Upgrade to WinFax Pro to receive additional features. About Your Recovery CDs Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics The Application Recovery CD program allows you to reinstall individual applications and device drivers. Use it to restore corrupted or accidentally erased files.
For Answers to Your Software Questions 29 For Answers to Your Software Questions Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972). Acrobat® Reader, Adobe PhotoDeluxe® Home Edition, Adobe Premiere®LE (Adobe Systems Incorporated) website http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-628-2746 (fee-based support) fax 206-628-5737 e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M - F, 6 AM - 5 PM PT America Online® (America Online) website http://www.aol.
30 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Easy Internet Access (Encompass, Inc.) website http://www.encmpss.com/ phone 800-927-3000 hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day McAfee’s VirusScan (McAfee, Inc.) website http://support.mcafee.com phone 408-988-3832 e-mail cybr@nai.com hours M - F 9 AM - 5 PM CT Netscape Communicator® (Netscape Communications Corporation) website http://www.netscape.
For Answers to Your Software Questions 31 SurfMonkey™ (MediaLive, Inc.) website http://www.surfmonkey.com/support/ Sub_support.html phone 408-556-2060 e-mail support@surfmonkey.com hours 9 AM - 10 PM PT every day WinFax® Basic Edition (Symantec Corporation.) website http://www.symantec.
32 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide Specifications Model Processor PCV-R522DS PCV-R526DS 466 MHz Celeron® 450 MHz Pentium® III PCV-R528DS 500 MHz Pentium® III Hard Disk Drive 10 GB 10 GB 13 GB Standard SDRAM 64 MB PC-66 SDRAM, expandable to 256 MB 128 MB PC-66 SDRAM, expandable to 256 MB 128 MB PC-100 SDRAM, expandable to 256 MB Video RAM 8 MB SDRAM 8 MB SDRAM 16 MB SDRAM MPEG MPEG 1 Digital Video supports full-screen video playback “Sony Tuned” MPEG Digital Video supports full-sc
Specifications Model 33 PCV-R522DS PCV-R526DS PCV-R528DS Connection Capabilities (Rear) USB port PS/2® (2) VGA Monitor port Serial port Parallel (printer) Game/MIDI Headphones Line In Microphone i.LINK (6-pin) Modem line (RJ-11) Phone line (RJ-11) USB port PS/2 (2) VGA Monitor port Serial port Parallel (printer) Game/MIDI Headphones Line In Microphone i.
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Index A accessing online support 8 adding additional software problems with 16 adjusting speaker volume 17 Application Recovery CD 23 applications launching problems with 17 C CD tray opening problems with 16 CD-ROM drives troubleshooting 16 cleaning mouse 19 computer locking up 15 protecting your investment 8 registering 8 shutting down 12 starting problems with 15 unpacking 3 customer assistance 8 DVD-ROM drive, troubleshooting 16 DVgate Motion 13 DVgate Still 13 E electronic registration 8 H hardwar
36 VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide mouse cleaning 19 troubleshooting 19 mouse buttons reassigning 20 system rebooting 15 troubleshooting 15 System Recovery CD 21 T O online registration service 8 support 8 opening applications problems with 17 CD tray problems with 16 taskbar problems viewing 20 technical support 8 troubleshooting 15 turning off your computer 12 turning on your computer problems with 15 U unpacking the computer 3 P palmrest connecting 9 PictureGear 13 problem solving 15 progr
