Sony PCV-RZ103 User Manual
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Sony VAIO Desktop
User Guide
P C V - R Z s e r i e s / P C V - 1 1 1 6

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Summary of Contents for Sony PCV-RZ103

  • Page 1 Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide P C V - R Z s e r i e s / P C V - 1 1 1 6...
  • Page 2: Read This First

    Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user licence agreement.
  • Page 3 Sony, DVgate, Giga Pocket, i.LINK and the i.LINK logo, MovieShaker, PictureGear Studio, PicoPlayer, Network Smart Capture, SonicStage, Sony Style Imaging, UI Design Selector, VAIO Action Setup, VAIO Edit Components, VAIO System Information, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
  • Page 4: Environmental Information

    Read this first ® NERGY ® ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. The NERGY NERGY ® International Energy Star Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use of computers and their office equipment.
  • Page 5: Safety Information

    Read this first Safety information Warnings General Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions. Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee. To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet.
  • Page 6 There is visible and invisible radiation when the optical disc drive is open: avoid direct exposure to the laser beam. The disc drives are classified as CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCTS and comply with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorised Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards. CLASS 1...
  • Page 7: Regulatory Information

    Read this first 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. This effort has resulted in several EU Directives asking that manufacturers make their products comply with essential standards.
  • Page 8 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...
  • Page 9 Giga Pocket - Take advantage of the new Giga Pocket technology, allowing you to watch TV and record your favourite programs digitally and by remote control. Sony Memory Stick™ slot – The next generation in digital storage allows you to easily transfer images, sounds, data and text between cameras, computers, and more.
  • Page 10 An Application CD Guide, which explains the purpose and use of the final system recovery CD. Use this when (re)installing bundled software. Your Sony Guarantee conditions; A Safety Regulations Guide for your information; A Modem Regulations leaflet applying to the modem.
  • Page 11: Online Documentation

    About the Software is a short description of the features of the software delivered with your system. Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Network Smart Capture. Managing audio files with SonicStage describes how to convert your existing MP3, WMA and WAV format audio files into ATRAC3 format.
  • Page 12 Welcome Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs explains how to perform a system and application recovery. The Giga Pocket manual explains how to watch and record TV and video on your PC. In the Customer Service Guide, you will find all the information you need relating to VAIO-Link, including contact numbers for each country.
  • Page 13 Welcome Your Sony VAIO desktop and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: Main unit VAIO keyboard with palmrest Stereo speakers VAIO optical wheel mouse Infrared receiver (for remote control) Remote control The phone cable and plug adapter are used to connect the internal modem.
  • Page 14: Ergonomic Considerations

    Welcome 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:...
  • Page 15 Welcome 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. Use the palm rest only briefly, to relax your wrists when you are not typing.
  • Page 16: Table Of Contents

    Using your VAIO desktop Using your VAIO desktop This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices. Locating connectors Starting your computer Shutting down your computer Using the keyboard Using the shortcut keys Setting up the monitor Using the TV function Using the remote control...
  • Page 17: Starting Your Computer

    Using your VAIO desktop 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: Press the power button on your monitor to turn the display on (1). Press the power button on the system unit until the blue power indicator light turns on (2).
  • Page 18: Shutting Down Your Computer

    Using your VAIO desktop 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: Click the Start button. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears.
  • Page 19: Using The Keyboard

    Using your VAIO desktop Using the keyboard This section describes the features of the VAIO keyboard. Tip: Your keyboard has an ergonomic design. You can put it in an upward position on its backside to save space on your desk. ¬...
  • Page 20 Using your VAIO desktop Keys Escape key (1) Function keys (2) Correction keys (3) Lock keys (4) Print Screen key (5) Numeric keypad area (6) Navigation keys (7) Application key Operator keys (9) ® Windows (10) Shortcut keys (S Keys) (11) Descriptions The <Esc>...
  • Page 21 Using your VAIO desktop Keys Indicator LEDs (12) Standby button (13) <Fn> combination keys (14) <Fn> key (15) Descriptions A green light indicates whether the Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock functions are active. Press this button either to start up your computer, or to enter Standby mode, or to resume from a power saving mode.
  • Page 22 Using your VAIO desktop Combinations and functions with the Windows Combinations + <F1> + <Tab> + <D> + <E> + <F> + <Ctrl> + <F> + <L> + <M> <Shift> + + <M> + <R> + <U> ® Function ® Displays Windows Help and Support Center.
  • Page 23 Using your VAIO desktop Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key Combinations/ Feature PgDn <Fn> + PgUp <Fn> + Home <Fn> + <Fn> + <Fn> + ScrLk Functions Moves the view to the next page down. Moves the view to the previous page up. Moves the cursor to the beginning of the line.
  • Page 24: Using The Shortcut Keys

    Using your VAIO desktop Indicators Light Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock Using the shortcut keys Press a shortcut key (<S> Key) to start your favourite software without having to click the shortcut icon on the desktop. Use an <S> Key simply by pressing it. If you want to, you can use VAIO Action Setup to change the functions of the <S>...
  • Page 25: Setting Up The Monitor

    Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 26: Using The Tv Function

    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. In combination with Sony's Giga Pocket software, it allows you to: Watch, record and play back analogue broadcasted cable and terrestrial TV-programs, all by remote control;...
  • Page 27 Using your VAIO desktop Starting to use Giga Pocket The following ports are located on the back of your desktop: Right audio-in channel Left audio-in channel Video-in S-Video-In port Antenna-in port...
  • Page 28 Using your VAIO desktop To connect terrestrial or cable TV to your computer, proceed as follows: 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. To connect an external video/audio source (such as a video camera, VCR or DVD player), proceed as follows: Connect your video/audio device’s video cable to the S-Video (4) or Video-in port (3), depending on the type of cable supplied with the external device.
  • Page 29: Using The Remote Control

    Using your VAIO desktop Using the remote control Your VAIO comes with a remote control with which you can control Giga Pocket, SonicStage and PowerDVD for VAIO. Before you can use the remote control, you must insert two AA alkaline batteries and connect the infrared receiver.
  • Page 30 Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 31 Using your VAIO desktop Button MUTE STANDBY MODE switch Numbered buttons 1 - 0 Application buttons JUMP FUNCTION VOLUME and CHANNEL SIZE AUDIO ANGLE Function Temporarily mutes the sound. Pressing it again restores the sound. Puts your computer into Standby mode. See Using power saving modes computer into Standby mode while Giga Pocket or Giga Pocket Server is running;...
  • Page 32 Using your VAIO desktop Button SUBTITLE TV/VIDEO DISPLAY REC MODE REC STOP REW and FF PREV and NEXT PLAY STOP, PLAY and PAUSE TITLE MENU Up/Down/Left/ Right and ENTER Function 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.
  • Page 33 Using your VAIO desktop Button CANCEL RETURN Function Closes the error message dialog box. The window returns to its original size when displayed in full-screen mode. 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.
  • Page 34: Using The Optical Mouse

    Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 35: Using The Dvd Drives

    Using your VAIO desktop Using the DVD drives Your computer is equipped with both a DVD±RW and a DVD-ROM drive. The DVD±RW drive (top) reads data from and writes data onto DVD and CD. The DVD-ROM drive (bottom) reads data from DVDs and CDs. To insert a disc, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer.
  • Page 36 Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 37 Using your VAIO desktop Memory-resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss. Deactivate these utilities before writing data to a disc. When using a software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications. Never touch the surface of the disc.
  • Page 38 Using your VAIO desktop 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: Connect the TV to your computer as described in Connecting a TV Go to Control Panel.
  • Page 39: Using The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using your VAIO desktop 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: Open the cover showing the Memory Stick™ icon on the front. Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up.
  • Page 40 Using your VAIO desktop Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Wait until the LED indicator turns off. Press the eject button and pull the disk out gently. Close the cover flap. Do not press the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.
  • Page 41: Using The Modem

    Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 42: Expansion Capabilities

    The empty PCI slot allows you the choice of adding to the expansion capabilities of your computer. See Upgrading your VAIO computer You are strongly advised not to add hardware yourself. Please contact your local Sony dealer for advice on changing the internal hardware components.
  • Page 43: Using The Memory Stick

    Mobile phones. There are currently two different types of Memory Stick™: The generic Memory Stick™, coloured blue. The MagicGate Memory Stick™, coloured white. You can purchase Memory Sticks™ from the Sony Style website (http://www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer.
  • Page 44 Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 45 Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 46 Using your VAIO desktop MagicGate Memory Stick™ As the MagicGate Memory Stick™ is not supported on your RZ model, the following is for your information only. If you want to be able to use the MagicGate Memory Stick™ technology, you can buy our external accessory MSGC-US10.
  • Page 47 Since it is compatible with MagicGate, you can use OpenMG / Sonicstage to transfer music that you have downloaded onto your PC to your MG Memory Stick™, and playback on other MagicGate-equipped devices and media. logo printed on it logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility...
  • Page 48 (SDMI) to study technology for protecting copyrights during the electronic distribution of music. Sony offers the MagicGate Memory Stick™ and Memory Stick™ Walkman with a copyright protection function that complies with SDMI standards, thereby providing an environment where individuals can record and enjoy third-party music data without worrying about copyright infringement.
  • Page 49 There are nearly 80 Memory Stick™-enabled products on the market or announced for introduction world- wide, ranging from camcorders and portable music players to voice recorders and many other electronic devices. You can currently use Memory Sticks™ with the following Sony products: Visual: Cybershot digital camera...
  • Page 50 Using your VAIO desktop Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab to the right or left* to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can be saved on the Memory Stick™.
  • Page 51 Using your VAIO desktop Inserting a Memory Stick™ insert a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: 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™...
  • Page 52 Using your VAIO desktop Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Make sure the indicator light is not on. Push the Memory Stick™ in to release it, and then pull it out. Close the cover flap. Always remove the Memory Stick™...
  • Page 53: Using Pc Cards

    Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 54: Inserting A Pc Card

    Using your VAIO desktop Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card proceed as follows: 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.
  • Page 55 Using your VAIO desktop 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.
  • Page 56: Using Power Saving Modes

    Using your VAIO desktop 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...
  • Page 57: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your VAIO desktop 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. Press one of the <S>...
  • Page 58 Using your VAIO desktop To activate Hibernate mode manually, use one of these two methods: ® Use the Windows Save your work. From the Start menu on the Windows Alternatively, press <Alt>+<F4> until the Turn Off Computer screen is displayed. In the Turn Off Computer screen, hold down the <Shift>...
  • Page 59: Connecting Peripheral Devices

    Connecting peripheral devices 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.
  • Page 60: Notes On Connecting Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Devices

    Connecting peripheral devices 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.
  • Page 61: Connecting An External Display

    Connecting peripheral devices 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.
  • Page 62 Connecting peripheral devices Click the GeForce4 Ti 4600 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.
  • Page 63: Connecting A Projector

    Connecting peripheral devices 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: 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).
  • Page 64: Connecting A Tv

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV You can connect a TV directly to your computer. See also Using the TV function screens while watching a DVD film 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.
  • Page 65 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV that has a Video-S port To connect a TV to your VAIO desktop with an S-Video cable (not supplied), proceed as follows: Plug one end of the S-Video cable into the TV Out port on the back of your computer. Plug the other end of the S-Video cable into your TV’s S-Video port.
  • Page 66 Connecting peripheral devices Click Advanced. The ...NVIDIA GeForce4 Ti 4600 dialog box appears. Click the GeForce4 Ti 4600 tab. Click nView Display Mode on the left. Select Clone and click Apply. To watch a DVD with Giga Pocket, showing it in full-screen on TV, proceed as follows; Click Overlay Controls on the left.
  • Page 67: Connecting An External Microphone

    Connecting peripheral devices 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.
  • Page 68: Connecting A Printer

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer To connect a printer, proceed as follows: Plug the printer cable into the printer connector on your computer. Plug the printer power cord into an AC outlet.
  • Page 69: Connecting A Usb Printer

    Connecting peripheral devices 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.
  • Page 70: Connecting An I.link™ Device

    An i.LINK™ connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices. The i.LINK™ connection varies depending on the software applications, operating system and i.LINK™ compatible devices you use. Refer to the documentation that came with your software for more information.
  • Page 71: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder

    On Sony digital video cameras, ports labelled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK™ are i.LINK™-compatible. The Sony digital video camera recorder is an example; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. If your digital video camera recorder includes a Memory Stick™ slot, you canuse it to copy images from the camera to your computer. To do so, simply...
  • Page 72: Connecting Two Vaio Computers

    Connecting peripheral devices 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 You can also print a document on a printer connected to another VAIO computer.
  • Page 73: Connecting To A Network

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network Your computer comes with a built-in Ethernet interface. To connect to a network, proceed as follows: 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).
  • Page 74 Connecting peripheral devices 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.
  • Page 75: Getting Help

    Getting help Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, as well as troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony provides several support options for your computer. Sony's support options Sony offers you many support options for your computer.
  • Page 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.
  • Page 77: About The Computer And Software

    Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn on the computer and press <F2> when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Use the keyboard’s arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
  • Page 78 Getting help Press <F10> to exit, or use the arrow keys to select Save and Exit.. The message Save configuration changes and exit now? appears. Make sure that Yes is selected and then press <Enter>. My computer does not shut down It is recommended that you shut down your computer using the Turn Off Computer command on the ®...
  • Page 79 Getting help My computer locks up If you suspect an application is locking your system, you can try to stop it. To do this, press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> once. If you have not changed the default settings, you will enter the Task Manager.
  • Page 80 Select Restart. Make sure the software you are using is compatible with your equipment and operating system. If these options fail, try re-installing the software. For bundled Sony software, see the printed Application CD Guide for installation details. If none of the above solves the problem, you can turn off the computer by pressing the power button for longer than 4 seconds. All unsaved data will be lost.
  • Page 81: About Giga Pocket

    Getting help About Giga Pocket The "Hardware Overlay Error" message appears If another application is using the hardware overlay, this means it is temporarily overriding your desktop settings and preventing Giga Pocket from launching. Close the relevant application and relaunch Giga Pocket.
  • Page 82: About The Display

    Getting help 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.
  • Page 83 Getting help I want to change the resolution of my display To change the resolution of your display, proceed as follows: From the Start menu, select Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes, then Display. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Select the Settings tab.
  • Page 84: About Discs And Floppy Disks

    Getting help About discs and floppy disks My disc drive tray does not open To open the disc drive, proceed as follows: With the eject button: Make sure the power is turned on. Press the eject button on the appropriate disc drive. Using My Computer: Click Start, and then My Computer.
  • Page 85 Getting help I cannot play a DVD If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD drive on your VAIO desktop. The region code is listed on the packaging of the disc.
  • Page 86 Getting help When I double-click an application icon, a message such as 'You must insert the application CD into your drive' appears and the software does not start Some titles require specific files that are located on the application CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program again.
  • Page 87: About Sound

    Getting help About sound My speakers are not producing any sound If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check that the volume is turned up. Check the volume controls in Windows Check that the speakers are connected correctly and turned on, and that the power cable is plugged into the mains (see the printed Getting Started brochure or the back of the Specifications sheet for connection details).
  • Page 88: About The Modem

    Getting help In the Options menu, select Advanced Controls, and then click the Advanced button under Microphone - Balance. The Advanced Controls for Microphone dialog box appears. Deselect the Microphone Boost check box, and then click Close. Close the Recording Control dialog box. The unwanted noise should now be cleared.
  • Page 89: About Peripherals

    Getting help My modem connection is slow Many factors influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other modems). If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service Provider, check the following: Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from any line noise.
  • Page 90 If this is the case, turn off all connected devices and disconnect unused devices. Check the connection and then turn on the power again. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices.
  • Page 91 Getting help How do I install a printer? Always check the printer manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers for Windows Service Pack 1 before proceeding. Some printers do not function properly without updated drivers. If the printer has a USB connection, the printer should be automatically installed. To install a local printer, proceed as follows: From the Control Panel, select Printers and Other Hardware, then Printers and Faxes.
  • Page 92 The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers, but you can try to change the printer port mode, as follows: Turn on the computer and press <F2> when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears.
  • Page 93: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate

    The connected i.LINK™ device is not recognised Disconnect the i.LINK™ device, then connect it again. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices. I cannot establish an i.LINK™ connection between two VAIO computers You must have administrator rights on your computer to be able to link the two.
  • Page 94: Upgrading Your Vaio Computer

    To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: You contact your local Sony dealer to install any new internal hardware components. You do not install memory modules yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.
  • Page 95 Upgrading your VAIO computer Opening the side cover To remove the side panel from the main unit, proceed as follows: 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.
  • Page 96: Inserting A Pci Add-On Board

    Upgrading your VAIO computer 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: Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer.
  • Page 97 Upgrading your VAIO computer Install the add-on board by plugging it into the expansion slot and secure it with the screw from the expansion slot, as shown: 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 Reconnect all peripheral devices and the power cord, and then turn on the computer.
  • Page 98: Upgrading Memory

    Upgrading your VAIO computer 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.
  • Page 99 Upgrading your VAIO computer 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 +5°C, - High humidity.
  • Page 100 Upgrading your VAIO computer 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: Shut down the computer, unplug it, and remove any peripheral devices. Wait for the computer to cool down.
  • Page 101 Upgrading your VAIO computer 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: Reinstall any add-on cards or components you removed.
  • Page 102: Closing The Side Cover

    Upgrading your VAIO computer Viewing the amount of memory To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: 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.
  • Page 103 Precautions 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. On handling the hard disk On using the power source On handling your computer On handling LCD screens On handling floppy disks On handling compact discs On handling Memory Sticks™...
  • Page 104: On Handling The Hard Disk

    Precautions 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.
  • Page 105: On Handling Your Computer

    Precautions 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.
  • Page 106: On Handling Lcd Screens

    Precautions 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.
  • Page 107: On Handling Floppy Disks

    Precautions 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.
  • Page 108 Precautions 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™.
  • Page 109 Glossary 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 <F1> key 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX ACPI Application recovery Application recovery CD-ROM BIOS...
  • Page 110 Glossary Term CardBus CD-ROM CD-RW DC In Driver DVD-ROM Definition CardBus is the commercial name for an advanced PC Card. The CardBus technology allows computer users to enjoy higher performances as far as data transfer and operating speed are concerned. See PCMCIA. Abbreviation for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory.
  • Page 111 They contain specific information on the software in use and can be used together with the descriptions in your online Sony Software Guide. 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.).
  • Page 112 Glossary Term L2 cache memory MAPI maximum RAM Motherboard Definition 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. Cache memory is RAM-like memory that enables quick access to data that has already been read by the computer.
  • Page 113 Glossary Term MPEG Operating system Optical mouse Partition PC Card Definition 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. MPEG-1 was developed for digital storage of video and audio data on CD-ROM.
  • Page 114 Glossary Term PCMCIA Pixel Processor Product recovery CD-ROM PS/2 PSTN Definition 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.
  • Page 115 Glossary Term Resolution RGB signal cable Service pack 1 S-video SDRAM Standard RAM System recovery System recovery CD-ROM Definition 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.
  • Page 116 You can connect up to 127 devices to a USB port. The USB standard is Hot Plug and Play. Short for Video Audio Integrated Operation. Brand name covering Sony's PC products, peripherals, accessories and software. VAIO-branded items are all designed to make the best use of Sony's Audio-Video (AV) and Information Technology (IT) skills.

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