Page 1 Sony Notebook User Guide P C G - F R S e r i e s...
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 Read this first ® NERGY ® ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. NERGY NERGY ® The International E Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use NERGY of computers and their office equipment.
Page 4: Safety Information
Safety information Owner's record The serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number and the model number and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. See also the printed Specifications document.
Page 5 Read this first 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.
Page 6: 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 7 Read this first Disposing of lithium ion batteries Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life. Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
Page 8 Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast processor, a fast disc drive* and an internal modem. Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power. Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.
Page 9: Documentation Pack
VAIO-Link information and an explanation of the purpose and use of the VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc. A Dual Language Operating System leaflet*; Your Sony Guarantee conditions; A Safety Regulations leaflet; A Modem Regulations leaflet. * Depending on your country. Dual Language Operating Systems are available in Belgium (Dutch and French), the Netherlands...
Page 10 Precautions provides facts and advice about using your notebook. Glossary refers to terms used in this manual. Refer to your Software Guide for information on the software and the Sony applications. About the Software is a short description of the features of the software available with VAIO systems.
Page 11 Welcome 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. * Depending on your model. Read the printed Specifications document for more information. In the VAIO-Link Customer Service Guide you will find all the VAIO-Link information you need, including specific contact numbers for each country.
Page 12 Welcome Your notebook and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: Main unit Phone cable AC adapter Phone plug* Rechargeable battery pack VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc** Power cord Documentation pack * Not available with models sold in Belgium or Spain. **See the printed Guide to Troubleshooting and Using the VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc for details.
Page 13: Ergonomic Considerations
Welcome Ergonomic considerations You will be using your notebook as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments: Positioning your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse.
Page 14 Welcome Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.
Page 15: Table Of Contents
Using your notebook Using your notebook This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices. Locating controls and connectors (page 15) Connecting a power source (page 20) Starting your notebook (page 24) Shutting down your notebook (page 25)
Page 16: Locating Controls And Connectors
Using your notebook Locating controls and connectors Right Power button (page 24) Optical disc drive* (page 32) Battery bay (page 21) * See the printed Specifications sheet for details on the disc drive of your model.
Page 17 Using your notebook Left Ethernet (network) (page 74) connector Microphone connector (page 68) Headphone connector (page 67) i.LINK™ connector (page 72) PC Card slots (page 38) Floppy disk drive (page 36)
Page 18 Using your notebook Front LCD screen (page 30) Speakers (page 30) Keyboard (page 26) Touchpad (page 31) Left/right buttons (page 31) Power indicator (page 29) Battery indicator (page 29) Power button (page 24) Hard disk drive indicator (page 29) Num Lock indicator (page 29) Caps Lock indicator (page 29)
Page 19: Ventilation Slot
Using your notebook Back DC In connector (page 20) 3 x Hi-Speed USB 2.0 (page 69) ports* AV mini jack (for TV (page 60) (NTSC/PAL) and line out) Modem connector (page 52) Ventilation slot (page 18) Monitor/VGA connector (page 58) Printer connector (page 70) Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
Page 20 Using your notebook Bottom Modem module cover (page 52) Memory module cover (page 96)
Page 21: Connecting A Power Source
Using your notebook Connecting a power source You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC adapter To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows: Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer. Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter.
Page 22: Battery Bay
Using your notebook Using the battery pack You can use a battery as a source of power. The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase. Inserting the battery pack To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows: Open the cover of the battery bay.
Page 23 Using your notebook Charging the battery pack To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows: Connect the AC adapter to the computer. Insert the battery pack. The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges).
Page 24: Removing The Battery Pack
Using your notebook The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When the battery life is nearly depleted, both the battery and power indicators start flashing. For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when battery life is low. To avoid loss of data when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as Standby or Hibernate.
Page 25: Starting Your Notebook
Using your notebook Starting your notebook To start your computer, proceed as follows: Slide the LCD lock lever (1) in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover. Press the power button (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on. If necessary, adjust the brightness on the LCD display.
Page 26: Shutting Down Your Notebook
Using your notebook Shutting down your notebook 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 on the Windows taskbar.
Page 27: Using The Keyboard
Using your notebook Using the keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but has additional keys that perform specific notebook-related tasks.
Page 28 Using your notebook Keys Descriptions Escape key (1) The <Esc> (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, <F1> is the Help key. The tasks associated with each function key may vary from one application to the other.
Page 29 Using your notebook ® Combinations and functions with the Windows Combinations Functions ® + <F1> Displays the Windows Help and Support Center. + <Tab> Switches the selected button on the taskbar. + <D> Displays the desktop + <E> Displays My Computer. + <F>...
Page 30 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Functions Power on: lights green. Power Standby mode: flashes umber. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the Battery battery bay on the left side of the computer. Light Data is read from or written to the hard drive. The hard drive is not being accessed.
Page 31: Speakers
Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key Combinations/ Feature Functions Toggles the built-in speaker on and off. <Fn> + (F3): speaker switch Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. <Fn> + (F4): speaker volume To increase volume, hold down the <Fn> key and press <F4> repeatedly. To decrease volume, hold down the <Fn>...
Page 32: Using The Touchpad
Using your notebook Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.
Page 33: Using The Disc Drive
Using your notebook Using the disc drive Your computer is equipped with either DVD-RW drive or a CD-RW/DVD-ROM combined drive. Check the printed Specifications sheet for details on your model. See the glossary at the end of this guide for more information on CD-RW and DVD-RW.
Page 34 Using your notebook If the disc does not come out when you press the eject button, go to Windows Explorer or My Computer. Select the drive, click the right button of your mouse and select Eject to open the disk tray. If it still does not eject, turn off the computer and insert a thin, pointed object (e.g. a paper clip) into the manual eject hole.
Page 35 Using your notebook Using the disc recording function* To burn discs, you can use DVD/CD-RW and/or DVD/CD-Rs**: The -RW (ReWriteable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write, erase and rewrite a program or other data. The -R (Recordable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write a program or other data, but once only.
Page 36 Using your notebook Using the DVD function To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROMs, you should follow these recommendations. You can play DVDs using the DVD drive and the WinDVD for VAIO software. See the help file on the WinDVD for VAIO software for details. Close all open applications before playing a DVD-ROM movie.
Page 37: Using The Floppy Disk Drive
Using your notebook Using the floppy disk drive Your computer is equipped with a floppy disk drive. Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Hold the disk (1) with the label side facing up. Gently push the disk into the floppy disk drive (2) until it clicks into place.
Page 38 Using your notebook Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Wait until the LED indicator (1) turns off. Press the eject button (2) to remove the floppy disk. Do not press the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.
Page 39: Using Pc Cards
Using your notebook Using PC Cards This computer has a PC Card slot that supports Type I, II and III PC Cards. PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices and Memory Sticks™. You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC Card. Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card, proceed as follows: Insert the PC Card into one of the PC Card slots with the label facing upwards.
Page 40 Using your notebook Use the lower slot for Type III PC Cards. Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer. If an “!”...
Page 41: Removing A Pc Card
Using your notebook Removing a PC Card Follow the steps below to remove the PC card while your computer is on. If it is not removed correctly, your system may not work properly. 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: Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar.
Page 42: Using Memory Stick
There are currently three different types of Memory Stick™ supported by your VAIO: The generic Memory Stick™, coloured blue. The MagicGate Memory Stick™, coloured white. The Memory Stick PRO™. You can purchase Memory Sticks™ from the Sony Style website (http://www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer.
Page 43 Using your notebook 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 44 Using your notebook 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 45 Using your notebook 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.
Page 46 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). logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media. MagicGate MagicGate refers to the copyright protection technology used by the MagicGate Memory Stick™...
Page 47 (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 48 Using your notebook 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.com...
Page 49 MB per CD, or 360 JPEG images in 5.0 Megapixel quality, more than ten rolls of 24/36 film. Compatible devices You can currently use the Memory Stick PRO™ with the following Sony products: Visual: Cyber-shot DSC-F717, -F77 and FX77 digital camera...
Page 50 Using your notebook 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.
Page 51: Inserting A Memory Stick
Using your notebook Inserting a Memory Stick™ To insert a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Once you have stored your data from your digital device, insert the Memory Stick™ (1) into an optional PC Card adapter (2). Push the release button. The release button pops out.
Page 52: Removing A Memory Stick
Using your notebook Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears. Select the hardware device you want to unplug. Click Stop. In the Stop a Hardware device dialog box, select the device that can be safely removed from the system.
Page 53: Using The Modem
Using your notebook Using the modem Your notebook 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: Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the phone line jack on the computer and plug the other end into the wall jack (2).
Page 54 Using your notebook Using the correct phone plug If there are two phone plugs in the box, make sure you use the correct one for the country you are in, as follows: UK: The connector can be identified by its cuboid shape and flat pins.
Page 55: Using Power Saving Modes
Using your notebook Using power saving modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, you can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Page 56: Using Hibernate Mode
Using your notebook Using Hibernate mode The state of the system is saved on the hard disk and power is turned off. The power indicator light is off in this mode. To activate Hibernate mode, proceed as follows: Go to Start and click Turn Off Computer. Hold down the <Shift>...
Page 57: Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting or using any of these peripherals. Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals. Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables. Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.
Page 58: Connecting An External Display
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external display You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use your computer with the following devices: Computer display (monitor); Multimedia computer display; Projector. Turn off your computer and the peripherals, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the external display. Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.
Page 59: Monitor/Vga Connector
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a computer display To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) in the monitor (VGA) connector (2) on the computer. If necessary, plug one end of the display’s power cord (3) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
Page 60 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a multimedia computer display You can connect the notebook to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. To connect a multimedia computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) on the computer.
Page 61: Av Mini Jack (For Tv
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV To connect a TV, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the audio/ video cable (1) (optional) into the AV mini jack (for TV (NTSC/PAL) and line out) (2) and the other end into the TV. Plug the power cord of the TV (3) into an AC outlet.
Page 62: Connecting A Projector
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD Projector. To connect a projector, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) identified by the symbol.
Page 63: Selecting Display Modes
Connecting peripheral devices Selecting display modes This notebook uses the NVIDIA GeForce4™ 420 Go video controller. You can select which display is used when the computer is connected to an external display. To select a display, proceed as follows: Click the Start button, and then Control Panel. The Control Panel appears.
Page 64: Using The Dual Display Function
Connecting peripheral devices Using the Dual Display function The dual display function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you have an external monitor attached to the monitor connector, your LCD display and the monitor can function as a single desktop.
Page 65 Connecting peripheral devices Selecting the Dual Display mode To select the Dual Display mode, proceed as follows: ® Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar. Click Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes. Click the Display icon. Select the Settings tab. Click the display marked 2.
Page 66: Customizing The Virtual Desktop
Connecting peripheral devices Customizing the virtual desktop You can customize the Dual Display mode by changing the position of the two monitors comprising the virtual desktop. To customize Dual Display mode, proceed as follows: ® Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar.
Page 67 Connecting peripheral devices Deactivating the Dual Display function To deactivate the Dual Display function, proceed as follows: ® Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar. Click Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes. Click the Display icon. Click the Settings tab. Click the display 2.
Page 68: Headphone Connector
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting external speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. To connect external speakers, proceed as follows: Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphone connector (2). Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the external speaker. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.
Page 69: Connecting An External Microphone
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external microphone Your VAIO notebook 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, proceed as follows: Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone connector (2) identified by the symbol.
Page 70: Connecting A Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Mouse
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mouse You can connect a USB device (e.g. mouse, floppy disk drive, keyboard, printer, …) to your computer. Before connecting or disconnecting a USB peripheral, you do not need to shut down the computer. You may need to install software (device drivers) supplied with your USB device before using the USB device.
Page 71: Connecting A Printer
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer ® You can connect a Windows -compatible printer to your computer to print documents. Connecting a printer using the USB connector ® You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to your computer.
Page 72: Printer Connector
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer using the printer connector To connect a printer using the printer connector, proceed as follows: Plug the printer cable (1) supplied with the printer into the printer connector (2) identified by symbol. Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet. Turn off your computer and the printer, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the printer.
Page 73: I.link™ Connector
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an i.LINK™ device Your computer includes an i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) connector, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK™ device such as a digital video camera recorder or to connect two VAIO notebooks in order to copy, delete or edit files.
Page 74: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder
(3) on the digital video camera recorder. Launch the DVgate application. On Sony digital video cameras, connectors 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.
Page 75: Ethernet (Network)
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your computer to 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX-type networks via an Ethernet network cable. For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, consult your Network Administrator. The default settings make your computer able to connect to the network. For more information about connecting your notebook to the network, please consult the Hardware troubleshooting section of the VAIO-Link website: How to troubleshoot network problems Do not plug a phone cable into your computer network jack.
Page 76: 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 support options Sony provides several support options for your computer. Please see the section Documentation pack...
Page 77 Getting help 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.
Page 78 Getting help 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. Is there a cost involved for using e-Support? No, this is a complete free of charge service offered to all registered VAIO customers! How do I know when the e-Support Team has handled my query/case? As soon as your case has been dealt with by our e-Support Team, you will receive an email, notifying you...
Page 79: Troubleshooting
Getting help Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions. Please try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link. About the computer and software (page 79) About the display (page 83) About discs and floppy disks (page 84)
Page 80: About The Computer And Software
Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer indicates that the power is on. Check that you are using the supplied Sony AC adapter. Check cables for signs of wear and tear (which can occur if the cable is twisted around the AC adapter during transport).
Page 81 Check that the floppy disk drive is empty and proceed as follows: 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. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 82 Getting help 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 command does not work properly, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer by pressing <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete>...
Page 83 Getting help If the above method does not work, press the power button and hold it for at least four seconds. This turns off the power, risking the loss of unsaved data. Then unplug the notebook from the mains. If your computer locks up while playing a disc, stop the disc by pressing the eject button on the disc drive, then restart your computer.
Page 84: About The Display
Getting help About the display My screen does not display anything Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer is on. Check that the battery pack(s) are inserted properly and that they are charged. If using AC power, check that the connection to the mains is secure.
Page 85: Optical Disc Drive
Getting help About discs and floppy disks My disc drive tray does not open Make sure the computer is turned on and press the eject button on the drive. If this does not work, click Start, and select My Computer. Right-click the optical disc drive and select Eject.
Page 86 Getting help Make sure your computer is running on AC power supply only and try the disc again. There may be condensation in the drive. Remove the disc and leave the drive open for approximately one hour. Remove the battery while you wait for the condensation to disappear. 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 notebook.
Page 87 Getting help I cannot play a DVD when using two screens When you use two screens at the same time (LCD and TV / LCD and CRT), the following errors will occur: For models with Click to DVD: You will see a Hardware Overlay error message if you attempt to launch Click to DVD.
Page 88 Getting help Are you using the correct DVD recordable media? Please check which DVD recordable format is compatible with your VAIO built-in DVD recorder: DVD-R / DVD-RW / DVD+R / DVD+RW. Please note the possibility that some brands of DVD recordable media do not work.
Page 89 Getting help My floppy disk drive cannot write to a disk The disk may be write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not write- protected. Check that the disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive. Your floppy disk may be corrupt.
Page 90: About Sound
Getting help About sound My speakers are not producing sound The built-in speakers may be turned off. Press <Fn>+<F3> to turn on the speakers. The speaker volume may be turned to the minimum. Press <Fn> and then press <F4> repeatedly to increase the volume.
Page 91: About The Modem
Getting help 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.
Page 92: About Peripherals
My mouse does not work If you are using a 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.
Page 93 Use the manual import/export in DVgate Motion if the problems occur with third party cameras. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices.
Page 94 The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode, as follows: Restart your computer. When you see the Sony logo, press <F2>. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Use the keyboard’s arrow keys to select the Advanced menu.
Page 95: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate
Getting help About digital video captures and DVgate While I am recording 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 DV device and try the operation again...
Page 96 Precautions Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Your notebook and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: You contact your dealer to install a new memory module.
Page 97 Precautions Changing or adding memory In the future you may want to change or add memory modules in order to expand the functionality of your computer. You can increase the memory by installing optional memory modules. Be careful when changing memory. Mistakes on installation or removal of the memory module may cause a malfunction.
Page 98 Precautions 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 99 Precautions Removing and installing a memory module To change or add a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack(s). Wait until the computer cools down. Turn the computer upside down.
Page 100 Precautions Place the memory module carefully into the slots, as shown, making sure the notches are aligned properly. Close the memory compartment cover and tighten the screw. Reinsert the battery pack(s) and turn on the computer.
Page 101: Other Precautions
Precautions Other precautions On handling the hard disk (page 101) On handling the LCD screen (page 101) On using power source (page 102) On handling your notebook (page 102) On handling floppy disks (page 104) On handling discs (page 104) On using the battery pack (page 104) On using headphones...
Page 102: 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. On the other hand, it may be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust. Although the hard disk has the safety device in itself to prevent losing data due to mechanical vibration, shock or dust, you should be careful when handling your computer.
Page 103: On Using Power Source
Precautions The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/ or bright points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction. Avoid rubbing the LCD screen, as this can damage the screen.
Page 104 Precautions Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts, Direct sunlight, Excessive dust, Moisture or rain, Mechanical vibration or shock, Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, Ambient temperature of more than 35ºC or less than 10ºC, High humidity. Do not place electronic equipment near your computer.
Page 105: 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 heat sources. On handling discs Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc.
Page 106: On Using Headphones
Precautions Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat. Keep the battery pack dry. Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack. Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock. If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery.
Page 107: On Handling The Memory Stick™ (Optional Accessory)
Precautions On handling the Memory Stick™ (optional accessory) Do not touch the connector with your finger or metallic objects. Use only the label supplied with the Memory Stick™ as a label. Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the Memory Stick™. Do not disassemble or modify Memory Sticks™.
Page 108 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 Definition <F1> key The <F1> key gives you access to the online help of most software. 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet system providing data transfer rates of 10 Mbps (megabits per second) and 100 Mbps.
Page 109 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 high- compatibility, high capacity and easy-to-use functionality. Like the DVD-RW, it can be rewritten about 1,000 times.
Page 110 VAIO desktop. 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.).
Page 111 Glossary Term Definition MAPI Short for Messaging Application Program Interface. A Microsoft Windows interface enabling you to send e-mail messages. It allows e-mail access and distribution among applications. MAPI-compatible applications include a Send Mail or Send in the File menu of the application.
Page 112 Glossary 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.
Page 113 Glossary 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.
Page 114 USB standard is Hot Plug and Play. VAIO 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.
Page 115 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.

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