N Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide P C V- R Z s er i e s / P C V- 11 2 6
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Read this first n N 1 Read this first Notice © 2003 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved. This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machinereadable form without prior written approval.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Read this first n N 2 ENERGY STAR® As an ENERGY ST AR ® Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the EN ERGY STAR ® guidelines for energy efficiency. The International Energy Star® Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use of computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that effectively reduce energy consumption.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Read this first n N 3 Safety information Owner's record The serial number and model number are located on the back of your Sony desktop. Record the serial number and the model number and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. See also the printed Specifications document. Warnings General ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Read this first n N 4 Audio/video ❑ Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation. Connectivity ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations. Be cautious when installing or modifying telephone lines.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Read this first n N 5 Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive). Declaration of Conformity The European Union is targeting the free movement of goods for the internal market and to prevent technical barriers to trade.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Read this first n N 6 Disposing of the internal memory backup battery Your Sony VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal back-up memory battery that should not have to be replaced during the lifetime of the product. If you want to replace the battery, please contact VAIO-Link: http://www.vaio-link.com ❑ ❑ ❑ Keep away from children. Dispose of the battery properly at its end-of-life.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 7 Welcome Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO desktop. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing. Here are the main features you will be able to enjoy: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast processor, an internal modem, and a fast Ethernet interface. Dual drives – Enjoy the freedom of two disc drives*.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 8 Documentation pack Your documentation pack contains printed information and user guides to read on your computer. The user guides are compiled in the VAIO Info Centre on the VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 9 Online documentation The online documentation includes the following guides: 1 2 The Hardware Guide (this guide): ❑ Using your VAIO Desktop shows you how to use the standard components of your system. ❑ Connecting peripheral devices explains how you can add functionality by connecting various peripherals. ❑ Getting help explains the support options available to you, and offers basic troubleshooting tips.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 10 ❑ 3 4 Installing and updating applications explains how to install, run or uninstall a software application. ❑ Managing drivers explains how to install, update or uninstall a driver. The Giga Pocket manual explains how to watch and record TV and video on your PC. In the VAIO-Link Customer Service Guide you will find all the VAIO-Link information you need, including specific contact numbers for each country.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 11 Your Sony VAIO desktop and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: 1 Main unit 7 Power cable 2 VAIO keyboard 8 Phone cable 3 Stereo speakers 9 Phone plug adapter (country-specific) 4 VAIO optical wheel mouse 10 TV-Out cable 5 Infrared receiver (for remote control) 11 Documentation pack 6 Remote control 12 VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc* ✍ *See the printed Guide to Troubleshooting and Using the VAIO Recovery a
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 12 Ergonomic considerations Whenever possible, try and take into account the following ergonomic considerations when using your new computer, whether at home or in the office:
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Welcome n N 13 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Position of the keyboard and mouse – Place the keyboard directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (2) while using the keyboard or mouse – not at an angle. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Place the mouse at the same level as the keyboard and use your whole arm to move it.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 14 Using your VAIO desktop This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 15 Locating connectors Please see the printed Specifications sheet to identify connectors on your model. Starting your computer Once you have all the components set up as described in the Getting Started guide, you can begin to use your computer. To start up your computer, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Press the power button on your monitor to turn the display on (1).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 16 Shutting down your computer It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data. To shut down your computer, proceed as follows: 1 2 4 Click the Start button. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears. Click Turn Off. Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator turns off. Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 17 Using the keyboard This section describes the features of the VAIO keyboard.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 18 Swiss keyboard If you purchased your VAIO in Switzerland, your keyboard will have the following layout: € < > \ Alt gr
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 19 Keys Descriptions Escape key (1) The (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. Function keys (2) The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, is the Help key. The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to another.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 20 Keys Descriptions Standby button (13) Press this button either to start up your computer, or to enter Standby mode, or to resume from a power saving mode. Indicator LEDs (14) A green light indicates whether the Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock functions are active. Combinations and functions with the Windows® key Combinations Function + Displays Windows® Help and Support Center.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 21 Indicators Light On Off Num Lock Turns on when the number keys in the numeric keypad Turns off when the alphanumeric character keys in the are active. keypad area are active. Caps Lock Turns on when the letters appear in uppercase as you Turns off when the letters appear in lowercase as you type. The key lowers the case of typed letters type (unless you hold down the key). when Caps Lock is on.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 22 Setting up the monitor If your VAIO desktop is delivered with a monitor, it may be delivered with a digital 15" or 17'' LCD (XGA TFT) monitor or with a common analogue CRT monitor, depending on your model and vendor. For more information on how to use your delivered monitor, refer to the user manual that came with it. You can also refer to the section Connecting an external display (page 59).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 23 Using the TV function For details on using Sony’s Giga Pocket software, please see the dedicated online guide. Your computer has been equipped with a TV-tuner board.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 24 Starting to use Giga Pocket The following ports are located on the back of your desktop: 1 Right audio-in channel 2 Left audio-in channel 3 Video-in 4 S-Video-In port 5 Antenna-in port
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 25 To connect terrestrial or cable TV to your computer, proceed as follows: 1 2 Plug one end of your antenna cable / cable-TV cable (not supplied) into the Antenna port (5) on the back of the computer. Plug the other end in the TV wall socket.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 26 Using the remote control Your VAIO comes with a remote control with which you can control Giga Pocket, VAIO Media, SonicStage and PowerDVD for VAIO. Before you can use the remote control, you must insert two AA alkaline batteries and connect the infrared receiver. Inserting the batteries and connecting the infrared receiver To insert the batteries, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Slide the battery cover in the direction of the arrow.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 27 The following illustration and table describe the remote control’s features. Please see Giga Pocket’s online Help files, within the software itself, for more details.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 28 Button Function 1 MUTE Temporarily mutes the sound. Pressing it again restores the sound. 2 STANDBY Puts your computer into Standby mode. See Using power saving modes (page 54). You cannot put your computer into Standby mode while Giga Pocket or Giga Pocket Server is running; approximately 5 minutes before timer recording starts; or just after the expiration date of a Video Capsule.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 29 Button Function 13 SUBTITLE This is a universal DVD playback function and is not used for Giga Pocket. Use it to turn on/off the subtitles or change the language of the subtitles while playing back DVDs, as long as this function is supported by the DVD movie.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 30 Button Function 25 CANCEL Closes the error message dialog box. The window returns to its original size when displayed in full-screen mode. 26 RETURN This is a universal DVD playback function and is not used for Giga Pocket. Use it to go back to a specified moment on the DVD, as long as the DVD supports this function.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 31 Using the optical mouse Your computer is delivered with a VAIO PS/2 optical mouse, which uses a light-emitting diode (LED) instead of a ball. Avoid using the mouse on a piece of glass or other transparent material, as this can interfere with smooth cursor movement on the screen. Function Action point Move the entire mouse across a flat surface to place the pointer on an item or object. click Press the left button (1) once.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 32 Using the disc drives Your computer is equipped with two separate drives. See the Specifications sheet for details on your model. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ The DVD±RW drive reads data from and writes data onto DVD and CD. The DVD-RW drive reads data from and writes data onto DVD and CD. The CD-RW drive reads data from and writes data onto CD. The DVD-ROM drive reads data from DVDs and CDs. The CD-ROM drive reads data from CDs.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 33 ✍ When the computer is in Standby or Hibernate mode, you cannot insert or remove a disc. Make sure you seat the disc firmly in the tray. Otherwise, you could damage your disc drive and you may not be able to open the tray. When you have finished using a disc, wait until the LED indicator turns off before pressing the eject button to remove the disc.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 34 Playing DVDs To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROMs, you should follow these recommendations: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Close all open applications before playing a DVD-ROM movie. You can play DVDs in both drives with the software PowerDVD for VAIO. If you want to play a DVD and use Giga Pocket at the same time, please launch Giga Pocket before PowerDVD for VAIO. Do not switch power saving modes while playing a DVD-ROM.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 35 Using two screens while watching a DVD film By connecting a TV to your computer, you can watch a DVD film while still working on your desktop as normal. To use the two screens and change the DVD playback settings, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Connect the TV to your computer as described in Connecting a TV (page 62). Go to Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes and then Display. The Display Properties dialog box appears.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 36 Using the floppy disk drive Your VAIO desktop is equipped with a floppy disk drive. Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Open the cover showing the Memory Stick™ icon on the front. Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up. Gently push the disk into the floppy disk drive until it clicks into place. 4 Close the cover flap.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 37 Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: 1 2 Wait until the LED indicator turns off. Press the eject button and pull the disk out gently. 3 Close the cover flap. ✍ Do not press the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 38 Using the modem Your VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link. To connect a phone line, proceed as follows: 1 2 ✍ Plug one end of the supplied phone cable into the LINE port on the back of the computer. Plug the other end into the wall jack.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 39 Expansion capabilities There are four expansion slots at the rear of your VAIO computer, as follows: 1 2 3 4 (bottom slot) CNR/PCI slot containing the modem card and PCI PCMCIA card. PCI slot containing the Giga Pocket ports. Empty PCI slot. (top slot) AGP slot containing the graphics card. The empty PCI slot allows you the choice of adding to the expansion capabilities of your computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 40 Using the Memory Stick™ Your VAIO computer is designed to support the Memory Stick™. The Memory Stick™ is a compact, portable, and versatile device especially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 41 Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The Memory Stick™ is the resulting medium, through which digital devices can be instantly connected. With it, you can download data from any compatible device, then transfer it to another in a single and instant transfer. The main advantages of the Memory Stick™ are its: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Compactness: with dimensions of just 21.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 42 Generic Memory Stick™ The original Memory Stick™, blue in colour, can be used to record image data taken with digital still cameras, etc. or data from the PC. With it, you can record, play back and transfer various kinds of data at any given time. Because it is easy to remove and transport safely, you can use Memory Stick™ anywhere by inserting it into any compatible device to transfer and share the information you have saved.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 43 MagicGate Memory Stick™ The MagicGate Memory Stick™, white in colour, records PC and image data just like its blue counterpart; the difference is it uses the MagicGate copyright protection technology. With this type of Memory Stick™, also called the MG Memory Stick™, you can enjoy the following features: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 32, 64 and 128 MB capacity versions. Storage of up to 120 minutes of audio data.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 44 ✍ MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organization working to draw up industry standard specifications in order to protect copyrights of digital music). The logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 45 particularly on the Internet, have recently been on the increase. That is why the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) took the initiative to organize a forum called Secure Music Digital Initiative (SDMI) to study technology for protecting copyrights during the electronic distribution of music.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 46 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ CLIE Handheld Entertainment Organiser Sony mobile phones Digital printers AIBO the Sony Entertainment Robot To find out more about the products available in your country, go to: http://www.sonystyle-europe.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 47 Memory Stick PRO™ The Memory Stick PRO™ records PC and image data just like its blue and white counterpart. However, the Memory Stick PRO™ provides you with a capacity of up to 1 GB. It also exists in 256MB and 512 MB. A 1 GB Memory Stick PRO™ card enables users to enjoy a staggering 6 hours of MPEG4 (384 Kbps) moving images or 24 minutes of DVD quality MPEG2 video.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 48 Devices that can be upgraded to accept the Memory Stick PRO™ media via a software patch are: ❑ ❑ Sony CLIÉ PEG-NX70V handheld. Detailed information will be available on www.clie-link.com. Some VAIO models.Detailed information will be available on www.vaio-link.com. Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 49 Inserting a Memory Stick™ To insert a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: 1 2 Open the cover showing the Memory Stick™ icon on the front. Insert the Memory Stick™ into the Memory Stick™ slot with the connectors pointing to the right. The Memory Stick™ is automatically detected by your system and appears in the My Computer window with its own drive. 3 Close the cover flap.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 50 Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: 1 2 Make sure the indicator light is not on. Push the Memory Stick™ in to release it, and then pull it out. 3 Close the cover flap. ✍ Always remove the Memory Stick™ gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly. You are recommended to remove the Memory Stick™ before shutting down the computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 51 Using PC Cards Your VAIO desktop has a PC Card slot on the front panel that supports Type I or Type II PC Cards. PC Cards allow you to interconnect with portable external devices.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 52 Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card proceed as follows: 1 2 Open the bottom panel on the front of your VAIO. Insert the PC Card gently into the PC Card slot with the label facing upwards. The PC Card is automatically detected by your system and the Safely Remove Hardware icon 3 ✍ appears in the taskbar. Close the cover flap (unless the PC Card peripheral prevents it). You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC Card.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 53 Removing a PC Card Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may crash and unsaved data may be lost. If you want to remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7. To remove a PC Card, proceed as follows: 1 2 Close any applications that are using the PC Card. Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 54 Using power saving modes The colour of the power indicator light on the main unit tells you which mode the computer is in. Colour Mode Blue Computer is in Normal mode Umber Computer is in Standby mode No colour Computer is turned off or in Hibernate mode Using Standby mode If you plan to stop using your computer for a short period of time (not overnight), you can put it into Standby mode instead of turning it off completely.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 55 3 Select Stand By. The computer goes into Standby mode, indicated by the umber light behind the System icon. To return to Normal mode, choose from the following: ❑ ❑ ❑ ✍ Press any key on the keyboard. Press the Standby button again. Quickly press the power button on your computer. You can leave Windows ® running when using Standby. If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off completely.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Using your VAIO desktop n N 56 To activate Hibernate mode manually, use one of these two methods: Use the Windows® taskbar: 1 2 3 4 Save your work. From the Start menu on the Windows® taskbar, select Turn Off Computer. Alternatively, press + until the Turn Off Computer screen is displayed. In the Turn Off Computer screen, hold down the key to reveal the Hibernate button. Click Hibernate. The computer goes into Hibernate mode, the computer turns off.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 57 Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of the following peripherals, and more. Before you connect a peripheral, turn off both the computer and the peripheral. Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables. Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 58 Notes on connecting Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices You can connect a USB device, for example, a scanner or a printer, to your VAIO desktop. Your computer features the latest USB technology, having been upgraded to USB Specification version 2.0. USB Specification version 2.0 increases device data throughput up to 480 Mbps, 40 times faster than USB 1.1 devices.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 59 Connecting an external display You can connect multiple displays to your desktop, each using a different port on the back of your computer: ❑ ❑ ❑ an LCD screen using the DVI connector, a CRT or LCD screen using the VGA connector, a TV using the TV-Out connector. See also Setting up the monitor (page 22) and Using two screens while watching a DVD film (page 35).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 60 6 7 8 9 10 Click on the GeForce FX tab. Click nView Display Mode on the left. Select the Device Settings button. Click Select Output Device... and select the required display. Click OK. If you reboot after changing the settings as above, the default setting returns and the image is shown on the VGA screen again. If you want the image to be shown on both the DVI and the TV after rebooting, please disconnect the VGA.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 61 Connecting a projector You can connect a projector (such as the Sony LCD projector) directly to your computer. To connect a projector to your VAIO desktop, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 ✍ Plug one end of the VGA cable (not supplied) into the VGA connector on the back of your computer, and the other end into the projector you want to use (1). Plug the audio cable (not supplied) into the headphones connector identified by the symbol (2).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 62 Connecting a TV You can connect a TV directly to your computer. See also Using the TV function (page 23) and Using two screens while watching a DVD film (page 35). In order to be able to use a TV screen, you also have to enable the TV-Out function. Your VAIO desktop is delivered with a TV-Out cable (or ’converter cable’), which is for use with TV sets without an S-Video port.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 63 ✍ This illustration may not correspond entirely to the configuration of your model. Please check the section Back Panel of your printed Specifications sheet to see where the ports are exactly. ! If you start playing a DVD with PowerDVD or Windows ® Media Player and then try to change your display settings, you will experience major problems with the playback software.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 64 To enable TV-Out, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ✍ Go to Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes. Click Display. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Click the Settings tab. Click Advanced. The ...NVIDIA GeForce FX... dialog box appears. Click on the GeForce FX tab. Click nView Display Mode on the left. Select Clone and click Apply. This illustration may not correspond entirely to the configuration of your model.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 65 Connecting an external microphone Your VAIO desktop does not contain an internal microphone. If you need to use a sound input device, for example to chat on the Internet, you need to plug in an external microphone. To connect an external microphone, plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone port (2) identified by the symbol . ✍ Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 66 Connecting a printer To connect a printer, proceed as follows: 1 2 ✍ Plug the printer cable into the printer connector on your computer. Plug the printer power cord into an AC outlet. This illustration may not correspond entirely to the configuration of your model. Please check the section Back Panel of your printed Specifications sheet to see where the ports are exactly.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 67 Connecting a USB printer To connect a USB printer, simply plug the printer's USB cable into one of the USB ports on your VAIO desktop. There are USB ports at the front and at the back of your computer. ✍ Do not turn on the computer or the printer until all the connections are made. These procedures do not apply to all printers.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 68 Connecting an i.LINK™ device Your VAIO computer includes a 4-pin i.LINK™ port on the front of the system and a 6-pin i.LINK™ port on the back of the system. Use these ports to connect an i.LINK™ device such as a digital video camera recorder or to link up two VAIO computers so you can copy, delete or edit files. ❑ ❑ The 6-pin i.LINK™ port can supply power from the computer to the connected device. The 4-pin i.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 69 Connecting a digital video camera recorder To connect a digital video camera recorder, proceed as follows: 1 Plug one end of the i.LINK™ cable (not supplied) into the i.LINK™ port of the computer and the other end into the DV-Out port on your digital video camera recorder. 2 Launch the DVgate application (see your Software Guide for more information). ✍ On Sony digital video cameras, ports labelled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK are i.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 70 Connecting two VAIO computers If you have adminstrator rights on your computer, you can connect your VAIO desktop to another VAIO computer using an i.LINK™ cable (not supplied). With the software delivered with your VAIO desktop, you can copy, edit or delete files on another VAIO computer that also has Windows® XP installed. You can also print a document on a printer connected to another VAIO computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 71 Connecting to a network Your computer comes with a built-in Ethernet interface. To connect to a network, proceed as follows: 1 Connect your 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet cable (not supplied) to the Ethernet port on the back of the computer. If there is a sticker covering the Ethernet port, this is to remind customers in Germany not to insert an ISDN cable (see caution below).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Connecting peripheral devices n N 72 5 6 7 Click Properties. Under Device Usage, select Use this device (enable). Click OK to close the Properties window. The Ethernet connection is now enabled. ! Connect only 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet port. Using other cables or a telephone cable may cause a malfunction, excessive heat ✍ or even fire in the port. If using this computer in Germany, please make sure you do not use an ISDN cable.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 73 Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, as well as troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony's support options Sony offers you several support options for your computer. Sony documentation Please see the section Documentation pack (page 8) for details on the printed and online documentation delivered with your computer, as well as further sources of reference.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 74 e-Support What is e-Support? You have searched our user guides and website (www.vaio-link.com) but have not found an answer to your question/issue? e-Support is the ideal solution for you! Our e-Support Web Portal is an interactive website on which you can submit any technical query you may have regarding your VAIO and receive answers from our dedicated support team.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 75 Can I submit my questions at any time? Yes, you can submit your questions 24/7, but please keep in mind that our e-Support Team can only treat your queries from Monday till Friday between 8am and 6pm.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 76 Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your VAIO desktop. Many problems have simple solutions. Please try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link or your local Sony dealer. You are recommended to print out this section and keep it for future reference.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 77 About the computer and software My computer does not start ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Check that the computer is plugged directly into a power source (without an extension cord) and that it is turned on. Check that the monitor is properly connected to the main unit, plugged into a power source and turned on. Check that the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly. Check the power socket is working by testing it with another device (e.g.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 78 The message 'Press to continue, to enter setup' appears at startup This message is telling you to initialise the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). To do so, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn on the computer and press when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Use the keyboard’s arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 79 My computer does not shut down It is recommended that you 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. If the Turn Off Computer command does not work properly, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 Shut down the computer by pressing +. The Turn off computer box appears. Select Turn Off.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 80 My computer or software program is not responding If you suspect one application is locking your system, you can try to stop it, as follows: 1 2 3 4 Press ++ simultaneously. The Windows Task Manager screen appears. Scroll down until you see an application with the status Not responding. Select this application from the list and click End Task. Windows® tries to close the application. If it fails to do so, a second dialog box appears.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 81 Windows® locks up during shutdown There are many reasons why the Windows® operating system may not shut down properly, including incompatible or conflicting drivers, damaged files, or non-responsive hardware. To search Windows® Help for troubleshooting information, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 From the Start menu, select Help and Support. Click Fixing a problem. Use the browse and search functions to find a solution.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 82 About the display My monitor does not display anything ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the monitor is plugged into the computer and to a power source, and turned on. Check that the power indicators on the main unit and on the screen are on. Adjust the brightness of the monitor. The computer display may be in Standby mode. Press any key to activate the display.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 83 I want to change the resolution of my display To change the resolution of your display, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 From the Start menu, select Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes, then Display. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Select the Settings tab. Move the Screen resolution slider to change the resolution. Click OK.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 84 I cannot play a disc ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ After inserting the disc, wait for a few seconds for the system to detect it before you try to access it. Make sure the label of the disc is facing up. If the disc requires software, make sure the software is installed according to the instructions of the program. Check the volume of your speakers. Clean the disc with an appropriate cleaner. There may be condensation in the drive.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 85 ✍ On your computer, the default DVD region code is 2, which is the region code for European DVDs. Do not change this setting using the Region Code Change function in Windows® , or any other software application. System malfunctions originating from the user changing the DVD region code are beyond the scope of your warranty and will result in service charges for repair.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 86 ❑ ❑ ❑ Check www.vaio-link.com for the following: ❑ If your VAIO is updated to the latest BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). ❑ If a firmware update is available for your DVD recordable drive. Perform a system recovery on the VAIO. Make sure you aware of the consequences of this action beforehand. See the section Recovering the system of the guide Troubleshooting / Using the VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 87 About sound The sound is distorted after recording with the Giga Pocket software If you have problems with the sound while playing back a clip recorded with Giga Pocket, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 ✍ In the Control Panel, choose Sounds, Speech and Audio Devices. Select Advanced Volume Controls on the left-hand side. The Volume Control box appears. Click the Options menu and select Properties. Under Recording, select the Aux check box and click OK.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 88 My microphone is too sensitive to background noise If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound, you can adjust the microphone gain. To adjust the microphone settings, proceed as follows: 1 2 In the Control Panel, choose Sounds, Speech and Audio Devices. Click Sounds and Audio Devices. The Sounds and Audio Devices Properties box appears. 3 Click the Voice tab. 4 Under Voice recording, click Volume.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 89 About the modem My internal modem does not work or cannot establish a connection ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ✍ Check that the phone line is plugged into your computer. Make sure that the modem is the only device connected to your phone line. 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 dialling is correct.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 90 About peripherals My mouse does not work ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ If you are using the supplied PS/2 mouse, you must connect it before you turn on your computer. If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse, check that the appropriate driver and software are properly installed. Check that the mouse is plugged into the mouse connector. Note that the scrolling features work only with programs that use scroll bars.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 91 My keyboard does not work properly ❑ ❑ If using the keyboard delivered with your computer, check that it is plugged into the PS/2 keyboard port on the back of the unit. PS/2 connections are not ’plug and play’, which means that if you connect the PS/2 keyboard after starting your computer, it does not work. Shut down the computer and connect the keyboard before restarting the system. I cannot use digital (DV) devices.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 92 I cannot print ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Check that all the cables of the printer are properly connected. Check the cable to see if the pins/connectors are not bent or missing completely. Check the manual supplied with your printer for troubleshooting solutions. Try a printer self test (if available) to see if the printer itself is still working properly. For more information, please consult the manual supplied with your printer. Try reinstalling the printer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 93 If you still cannot print, try resetting the printer connection, as follows: 1 2 3 4 Click the icon of the printer installed on your computer. In the Printer Tasks menu, which has now expanded, click Set printer properties. Have a look through the different tabs and check for abnormalities that you may be aware of. If you are unsure, check with the printer manufacturer's support service about the correct installation for the printer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Getting help n N 94 About digital video captures and DVgate When I record images to a digital video device using DVgate, my system displays the message 'Recording to DV device failed. Check the power and cable connections to the devices and try again' Close all open applications and restart your computer. Frequently recording images to a digital video device while using DVgate sometimes causes this error. About i.LINK™ devices My i.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 95 Upgrading your VAIO computer The following procedures assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with PCs and with the regulatory compliance required for modifying electronic equipment. Observe proper safety precautions at all times. Your VAIO desktop and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connector technology.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 96 Opening the side cover To remove the side panel from the main unit, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. Unplug the computer from the mains. Wait until the computer cools down. The inside of the main unit becomes very hot during operation. Wait for about one hour for the computer to cool down before opening the unit.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 97 Inserting a PCI add-on board Your computer has an open PCI expansion slot. This slot enables you to install an add-on board to expand the functionality of your system. Add-on board configuration can vary. To insert an add-on board, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 98 6 Install the add-on board by plugging it into the expansion slot and secure it with the screw from the expansion slot, as shown: 7 8 9 Attach any internal cables that the board requires (see the manual that came with the add-on board). Replace the side cover as described in Closing the side cover (page 103). Reconnect all peripheral devices and the power cord, and then turn on the computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 99 Upgrading memory In the future, you may want to upgrade the memory installed on your VAIO by replacing / adding memory modules. However, we recommend that you do not install them yourself unless you are familiar with upgrading memory on a computer. For memory upgrades, use only PC2700 (DDR333) DDR-SDRAM DIMM modules. Be careful when adding memory yourself. Mistakes on installation or removal of the memory module may cause a malfunction.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 100 ✍ Do not place the memory module in places subject to: - Heat sources such as radiators or air ducts, - Direct sunlight, - Excessive dust, - Mechanical vibration or shock, - Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, - Ambient temperature of more than +35°C or less than +10°C, - High humidity.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 101 Adding / replacing a memory module If you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer, we highly recommend that you contact your dealer. To add or change a memory module, proceed as follows: 1 2 3 Shut down the computer, unplug it, and remove any peripheral devices. Wait for the computer to cool down. Open the unit (see Opening the side cover (page 96)).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 102 5 6 7 Locate the notch on the bottom edge of the memory module. Align the memory module over the slot, making sure the module is facing the correct way. Press evenly against the memory module's upper corners. The end latches snap into position automatically, as shown: 8 9 Reinstall any add-on cards or components you removed. Replace the side cover as described in Closing the side cover (page 103).
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Upgrading your VAIO computer n N 103 Viewing the amount of memory To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: 1 2 Turn on the computer. Click the Start button, point to All Programs, then VAIO System Information, and click VAIO System Information again. You can view the amount of installed memory here. Closing the side cover To replace the side cover, proceed as follows: 1 2 Align the tabs on the side cover to the rim of the unit.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Precautions n N 104 Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Please contact VAIO-Link if you need assistance.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Precautions n N 105 On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. However, it can be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust. Although the hard disk has the internal safety device to prevent losing data due to mechanical vibration, shock or dust, you should be careful when handling your computer. To avoid damaging your hard disk: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ✍ Do not subject your computer to sudden movements.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Precautions n N 106 On handling your computer ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Clean the unit with a soft cloth, which is either dry or lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the finish of your computer. Should you drop a solid object or any liquid onto the computer, shut down your computer and then unplug it.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Precautions n N 107 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Do not use cut or damaged connection cables. If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one, moisture may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least one hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your computer and contact VAIO-Link. Make sure you disconnect the power cord before cleaning the computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Precautions n N 108 On handling floppy disks ❑ ❑ ❑ Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets. Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat. On handling compact discs ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause reading errors. Always hold the disc by its edge and central hole, as shown.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Precautions n N 109 ❑ ❑ ❑ Do not let Memory Sticks™ get wet. Do not use or store Memory Sticks™ in a location subject to: ❑ Extremely high temperatures, such as in a car parked in the sun ❑ Direct sunlight ❑ High humidity or ❑ Corrosive substances. Use the storage case supplied with the Memory Stick™.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 110 Glossary This section refers to terms used in this manual and elsewhere in the VAIO world. These terms and definitions have been compiled to provide you with a better understanding of your VAIO computer. Term Definition 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet system providing data transfer rates of 10 Mbps (megabits per second) and 100 Mbps. The 100BASE-TX is a very direct derivative of 10BASE-T.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 111 Term Definition CNR Short for Communication and Networking Riser. A hardware device that plugs into a motherboard and holds chips for functions like modems and audio devices. CPU The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brains of the computer; it processes the instructions of your system’s programs. The CPU is also known as the processor or microprocessor and can be found on the motherboard of your computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 112 Term Definition DVD+RW The DVD+RW is a slightly different rewritable DVD format, backed by a group of companies known as the DVD+RW Consortium, which includes Sony. Its advantages include highcompatibility, high capacity and easy-to-use functionality. Like the DVD-RW, it can be rewritten about 1,000 times. However, a DVD+RW drive writes at a higher speed than a DVD-RW drive. See http://www.dvdplusrw.org for more information on the DVD+RW.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 113 Term Definition i.LINK™ i.LINK™ is Sony’s version of the IEEE 1394 standard for high-speed digital serial interface. The standard is regarded in the audio/video and IT industries as the most suitable interface for connecting computers and digital audio/video devices (such as digital cameras etc.). ISP An ISP (Internet Service Provider) is a company which provides you with a user name, password and telephone number in order to connect to the Internet.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 114 Term Definition Motherboard The motherboard is the main circuit board inside your computer. It holds the CPU, the BIOS, the memory and so on. MPEG MPEG or Moving Pictures Experts Group is a standard for audio-visual compression of video sequences. MPEG achieves high compression rates by storing only the changes from one frame to another. The decrease in data is generally imperceptible to the human eye.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 115 Term Definition PC Card A PCMCIA card. The term PC Card is more widely used than PCMCIA. See PCMCIA. PCMCIA PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) is the name of the group that produced the specification for the credit card-sized plug-in boards for laptop computers. The cards used to be called PCMCIA cards, but as this was rather unpronounceable, these cards are now termed PC cards.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 116 Term Definition Resolution The degree of sharpness and clarity of an image. Resolution is expressed in pixels. Frequent computer screen resolutions are 640 x 480 pixels (VGA resolution; appropriate for a 14-inch screen), 800 x 600 (appropriate for a 15-inch screen), 1,024 by 768 (appropriate for a 17-inch screen), and 1,280 by 1,024. LCD displays usually use a higher resolution than a CRT of the same size. RGB signal cable RGB stands for Red, Green, Blue.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 117 Term Definition UPS A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device including a battery that protects your computer from data loss in the event of a power failure. The battery takes over as soon as a power interruption is detected. If you are using the computer when the power failure occurs, you have time to save all unsaved data and to shut down your computer.
Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide Glossary n N 118 Trademarks Sony, BlueSpace NE, DVgate, Giga Pocket, HotKey Utility, Memory Stick Formatter, PicoPlayer, PictureGear Studio, Network Smart Capture, SonicStage, Sony Notebook Setup, Sony Style Imaging, UI Design Selector, VAIO Action Setup, VAIO Edit Components, VAIO Media, VAIO System Information, VAIO Web Phone, Memory Stick, the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
