Page 1: User Guide
VAIO Notebook Computer ® User Guide PCG-838 ®...
Page 2: Notice To Users
Their standards and logos are uniform among participating nations. NERGY This product contains software owned by Sony and licensed by third parties. Use of such software is subject to the terms and conditions of license agreements enclosed with this product. Some of the software may not be transported or used outside the United States.
Page 3: Regulatory Information
Safety Information Owner’s Record The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony VAIO Notebook Computer. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call your Sony Service Center.
Page 4 Repair of this equipment should be made only by a Sony Service Center or Sony authorized agent. For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972).
Page 5: Telephone Consumer Protection Act Of 1991
In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. For the Sony Service Center nearest you call 1-888-476-6972 in the United States or 1-800-961-7669 in Canada Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries.
Page 6: Industry Canada Notice
The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not disassemble, heat above 212 F (100 C) or incinerate. Dispose of used battery promptly. Keep away from children. La manutention incorrecte du module de batterie de cet appareil présente un risque d'incendie ou de brûlures chimiques.
Page 7 possible que la conformité aux conditions énoncées ci-dessus n’empêche pas la dégradation du service dans certaines situations. Les réparations de matériel homologué doivent être coordonnées par un représentant désigné par le fournisseur. L’entreprise de télécommunications peut demander à l’utilisateur de débrancher un appareil à...
Page 9: Table Of Contents
Contents Welcome Ergonomic Considerations ... 2 Using Your Notebook Computer Locating the Controls and Connectors ... 5 Connecting a Power Source ... 8 Starting Your Computer ... 12 Shutting Down Your Computer ... 13 Registering Windows Registering Your Computer ... 15 Using the Keyboard...
Page 10 Connecting a Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device ...60 Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder...61 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device ...62 Customizing Your Notebook Computer Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen...63 Controlling Power Management...66 Displaying Battery Information ...70 Selecting the Display Mode ...73 Using the Dual Display Function...77...
Page 11: Welcome
About the User Guide The User Guide offers a quick introduction and reference to your Sony Notebook computer. Using Your VAIO® Notebook Computer shows you how to use the standard components of your system.
Page 12: Ergonomic Considerations
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Ergonomic Considerations You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to apply the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments. Arms at desk level Wrists relaxed...
Page 13 Welcome Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.
Page 15: Using Your Notebook Computer
Using Your Notebook Computer This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices, such as the touchpad, floppy disk drive, and DVD-ROM drive. Locating the Controls and Connectors Front LCD screen (pages 20, 91) Speakers (page 58) Keyboard (page 16) Microphone (page 59)
Page 16 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Left Power switch (page 12) Hard disk drive Battery bay (pages 9, 48) There is a ventilation slot located directly above the headphone connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot when your computer is on. Headphone connector (pages 30, 58) Microphone connector (page 59) Line In connector...
Page 17 Right Phone line jack (page 44) PC card slots (page 33) Back cover DC In (page 8) Serial connector (page 60) Infrared port (page 36) USB connector (page 62) Mouse/Keyboard connector (page 57) Using Your Notebook Computer Drive bay (pages 23, 26) cover Monitor connector (page 54) Docking station port (page 45)
Page 18: Connecting A Power Source
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Connecting a Power Source You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC Adapter Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on the computer.
Page 19: Using Battery Power
Using Battery Power You can use one or two battery packs as a source of power. The second battery pack inserts into the drive bay on the right side of the computer. (See “Using Power Saving Modes” on page 38.) Additional battery packs are available as a separate option.
Page 20 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To charge the battery pack 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). When the battery is 85 percent full, the battery indicator light turns off.
Page 21: To Remove The Battery Pack
When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink. See “Using a Second Battery Pack” on page 40 for information on installing and charging a battery pack in the drive bay. Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the computer.
Page 22: Starting Your Computer
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Starting Your Computer Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover. LCD lock lever Slide the power switch on the left side toward the front of the computer until the green power indicator light turns on. Power switch If you hold the power switch in the on position for more than four seconds, the computer turns off.
Page 23: Shutting Down Your Computer
Shutting Down Your Computer To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer. Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar. Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.
Page 24: Registering Windows 98
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Registering Windows The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few steps to register and configure the Windows 98 software that is already installed on your computer. You must register Windows 98 before you can use the computer. ®...
Page 25: Registering Your Computer
Registering Your Computer You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive the following benefits by registering your computer with Sony. Sony Customer Support – Talk to a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.
Page 26: Using The Keyboard
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Escape Key Shift key Ctrl key Fn key Windows 98 key Keys Descriptions Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator.
Page 27 Keys Descriptions Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and places it in the Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the screen shot into a document and print it. Operator keys Several keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl, Alt, and Shift.
Page 28: Combinations And Functions With The Windows 98 Key
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key Combinations + F1 + Tab + Ctrl + F Shift + Fn + + Insert Functions Displays Windows Help. Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays Windows Explorer. Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find a file or folder.
Page 29 Indicators Indicators Functions Power Lights when the power to the computer is turned on. Flashes in System Suspend mode. Turns off when the computer is in System Hibernation mode or powered off. Battery 1 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the left side of the computer.
Page 30: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key Combinations/ Feature (ESC) System Suspend (F2) Display power source status (F3) Mute on/off (F4) Speaker volume (F5) Brightness control Fn+F6 (F7) Switch to the external monitor/LCD Fn+F8 (F9) Functions Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a power management state.
Page 31 Combinations/ Feature (F12) System Hibernation Fn+F Change the display size Fn+D Video standby Using Your Notebook Computer Functions Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the state of the system and state of the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk and the system power is turned off.
Page 32: Using The Touchpad
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Touchpad Actions Descriptions Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object.
Page 33: Using The Floppy Disk Drive
If you connect the floppy disk drive externally while your computer is on, use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to select Floppy Disk Drive. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” on page 63 for details.
Page 34 To insert the floppy disk drive Turn off the computer. If you use the Drive Bay tab in Sony Notebook Setup, you do not need to turn off the power before exchanging devices in the drive bay. See page 65.
Page 35 To remove a diskette When you finish using the diskette, wait until the LED indicator turns off and then press the Eject button to remove the diskette. If you have difficulty removing a diskette from the floppy disk drive, remove the floppy disk drive from the drive bay.
Page 36: Using The Dvd-Rom Drive
System Suspend and System Hibernation modes. If you use the Drive Bay tab in Sony Notebook Setup, you do not need to turn off the power before exchanging devices in the drive bay. See “Changing Devices in the Drive Bay Using the Drive Bay Tab”...
Page 37 Close the tray by pushing it gently. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the DVD-ROM drive hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your DVD-ROM drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
Page 38 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To remove the DVD-ROM drive Turn off the computer before removing the DVD-ROM drive. There is an Eject lever on the bottom of the DVD-ROM drive. Slide this lever in the direction of the arrow. Slide the drive out of the drive bay.
Page 39 To play DVD-ROMs To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROMs, you should use the following recommendations: Your computer should not be connected to the docking station while playing DVD movies or using DVD applications. Close any open applications before playing a DVD-ROM movie.
Page 40: Using The Headphone With Remote Control
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Headphone with Remote Control Your notebook computer includes a headphone, which you can use to listen to audio and video CDs and DVDs. You can listen to audio CDs even when your computer is in System Suspend mode. To use the remote control when your computer is active, you must use the Digital Media Park software.
Page 41 While holding down the Fn key, press Esc. The computer enters System Suspend mode. Press the Stop button on the remote control. Press the Eject button to open the DVD-ROM drive. The tray slides out. Place the audio CD/DVD in the tray and close the tray by gently pushing the tray.
Page 42: Using The Hold Switch
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Remote Control to Play an Audio CD or DVD Hold (play) (forward) Volume Find the beginning of the current track (AMS*) Find the beginning of previous tracks (AMS) Find the beginning of the next track (AMS) Find the beginning of succeeding tracks (AMS) Go forward quickly...
Page 43: Using Pc Cards
III PC card. These slots are compatible with Card Bus and ZV (Zoomed Video) port. Some PC cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” on page 63 for details.
Page 44 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Remove the PC card slot protector. When you use a Type III PC card, you need to remove both the top and bottom PC card slot protectors. Insert the PC card into the PC card slot, front label facing up. Gently push the card into the slot until the card is fixed into the connector.
Page 45 To remove a PC card Close any applications that are using the PC card. Click the PC card icon in the taskbar and close the card. Pull the PC card release button up and press it in toward the computer. Gently grasp the card and pull it out.
Page 46: Using Infrared Communication Devices
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Using Infrared Communication Devices Your computer includes an infrared port, located on the back panel. You can use this port to communicate with other infrared-equipped devices with compatible protocols, such as a digital still camera or other computers.
Page 47 Using Your Notebook Computer Infrared communication capability can be turned on and off. By default, it is not enabled when your system is shipped. To enable infrared use, click the infrared icon in the Windows Control Panel and select the Enable infrared communication checkbox on the Options tab. You can disable infrared communication when you are not using it to conserve battery life.
Page 48: Using Power Saving Modes
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide 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: System Suspend and System Hibernation.
Page 49: Power Consumption
To return to normal mode Turn on the computer by sliding the power switch forward. The computer returns to its previous state. When returning from System Hibernation mode, the system status stored on the hard disk is erased and the computer starts normally if you slide the power switch forward and hold for more than four seconds.
Page 50: Using A Second Battery Pack
25 or “To remove the DVD-ROM drive” on page 28. If you use the Drive Bay tab in Sony Notebook Setup, you do not need to turn off the power before exchanging devices in the drive bay. See page 65.
Page 51 To charge the second battery pack Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator flashes while the battery is charging. See also “To charge the battery pack” on page 10 for more information. Battery pack (supplied) To determine the amount of time the battery lasts, see “Displaying Battery Information”...
Page 52: Using The Weight Saver
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the drive bay when it is empty. To attach the Weight Saver If another device is in the drive bay, remove the device. See “To remove the floppy disk drive” on page 25, “To remove the DVD-ROM drive”...
Page 53: Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of these peripherals: Phone line (page 44) Docking station (page 45) Printer (page 53) External display (page 54) External mouse or keyboard (page 57) External speakers (page 58) External microphone (page 59) Digital still camera or other serial device (page 60) Digital video camera recorder (page 61)
Page 54: Connecting A Phone Line
Internet. In order to register your Sony VAIO Notebook Computer, register your software online, and use Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line. You must register your computer to receive the extended warranty. Pull the PC card release buttons away from the computer.
Page 55: Connecting The Docking Station
Connecting the Docking Station Your notebook computer supports the use of an optional docking station. Attaching a docking station enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer. There are two types of docking stations: the Personal Docking Station (PCGA-DH8) and the Network Docking Station (PCGA- DB8).
Page 56 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To attach your computer to the docking station To supply power to your computer while it is connected to the docking station, you can connect the AC adapter directly to the docking station. Turn off your computer and disconnect all peripherals. On the back of the computer, lift the docking station port cover.
Page 57 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the the docking station. Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony PCGA-AC7/ PCGA-AC71 adapters. power indicator light turns green.
Page 58 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To charge a battery pack using the docking station Open the cover of the battery charger bay. Insert the battery pack. Label side facing down Battery pack When the battery pack is fully inserted, close the cover. Connect the docking station to an AC outlet.
Page 59 The docking station automatically charges the battery. The charger indicator light is on while the battery is charging. When the battery is fully charged, the battery charger indicator light turns off. Make sure the docking station is in a horizontal position and do not move the docking station while the battery is in the docking station charger bay.
Page 60 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To insert the floppy disk drive into the docking station You can use the floppy disk drive in the docking station while you are using the DVD-ROM drive in the computer. By using the drive bays in both the computer and the docking station, you can use both drives at the same time.
Page 61 To remove your computer from the docking station when the power is on Insert a charged battery in the computer. On the Start menu, select Eject. Alternatively, press Fn+F9. indicator turns off. If you press Fn+F9, the computer beeps. IN USE Do not remove the computer before the computer before the light turns off may cause a malfunction.
Page 62 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To remove your computer from the docking station when the power is off Turn off your computer and the connected peripherals. Slide the docking lever forward into the the computer from the docking station. Lift the computer away from the docking station. Close the docking station port cover on the back of your computer.
Page 63: Connecting A Printer
See the manual that came with your printer for more information on installation and use. Before using the printer, you may need to change the FDD/Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” on page 63.
Page 64: Connecting An External Display
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Connecting an External Display You can connect an external display to your notebook computer. For example, you can use the computer with any of the following: Computer display (monitor) (page 54) Multimedia computer display (page 55) Projector (page 56) To connect a computer display Use the...
Page 65 To connect a multimedia computer display You can connect the notebook computer to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. Use the symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Plug the display cable into this connector. Use the symbol to locate the Headphone connector.
Page 66 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. Monitor RGB signal cable See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and use.
Page 67: Connecting An External Mouse Or Keyboard
Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to your computer. To connect both a mouse and a keyboard, use the docking station (see “Connecting the Docking Station” on page 45). The Mouse/Keyboard connector requires a PS/2 To connect an external mouse or keyboard Use the symbol to locate the Mouse/Keyboard connector.
Page 68: Connecting External Speakers
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on. Do not place diskettes on the speakers;...
Page 69: Connecting An External Microphone
Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. To connect an external microphone Use the to locate the Microphone connector. Plug the microphone cable into this connector.
Page 70: Connecting A Digital Still Camera Or Other Serial Device
Serial The Sony Digital Still Camera is pictured; you may need to connect your camera differently. See the manual that came with your digital camera or other serial device for more information on installation and use.
Page 71: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder
Digital video camera recorder to DV In/Out The Sony digital video camera recorder (DCR-PC7) is pictured; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are i.LINK- compatible.
Page 72: Connecting A Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Device
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device You can connect a USB device to your computer. To connect a USB device Use the symbol to locate the USB connector. Plug one end of the USB cable into this port and the other end into the USB device. See the manual that came with your USB device for more information on installation and use.
Page 73: Customizing Your Notebook Computer
You can customize the settings of your notebook computer. The following sections briefly describe how to change your computer’s default settings. You can also refer to the Sony Notebook Setup Help for more detailed information. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.
Page 74: Notebook Setup Tabs
Touchpad Drive Bay Power On Password Enable Ports Basic/Advanced For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the help file. Descriptions Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.
Page 75 CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or floppy disk. Doing so may cause loss of data. Be sure to close active applications, other than Sony Notebook Setup, before changing a device. When installing a hard disk drive to the drive bay for the first time, it may take several minutes before you are able to use your computer.
Page 76: Controlling Power Management
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel utility allows you to control the power management of your notebook computer and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your computer’s battery power. You can also refer to the PowerPanel Help for more detailed information.
Page 77: Power Management Commands
Icon Description Word Processing timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and System Suspend to optimize power management for your system. Communications timeout. The Internal modem remains powered. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and System Suspend to optimize power management for your system.
Page 78 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Icon Description CPU Speed Control - Controls the speed at which the CPU performs. Click this button to open the Speed Control dialog box. When you select the Autocheck box, the CPU performs at full speed while the system is active and at 25% of full speed during periods of inactivity.
Page 79 Changing the power management settings using the PowerPanel Profiles toolbar You can change power management settings, such as the settings for the System Suspend timer or the speed at which the CPU performs. Click the (atom) icon on the taskbar. The PowerPanel bar appears. (If the bar does not appear, click the Start button and point to Tool Center.
Page 80: Displaying Battery Information
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Displaying Battery Information You can display detailed information for each of the batteries in your computer and docking station. The following sections briefly describe how to display your computer’s general battery information. You can also refer to the BatteryScope Help for more detailed information. Activating BatteryScope To activate BatteryScope Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.
Page 81: Battery Icon Descriptions
Battery Icon Descriptions Battery icon Battery status Discharging Charging Not in use No battery Displaying Detailed Battery Information You can obtain detailed information about the batteries. Click the battery icon on the toolbar to display the BatteryScope window. The screen appears displaying the General tab, which contains information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.
Page 82 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To display information on individual batteries Click the Primary battery tab to display information for the battery in the bay on the left side. Click the Secondary battery tab to display information for the battery in the bay on the right side.
Page 83: Selecting The Display Mode
Selecting the Display Mode When you connect an external display, you can toggle the display mode between the LCD on your computer and external displays. Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar. Point to Settings and click Control Panel. Click Display.
Page 84 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Select the type of external display: CRT/Projector If you select CRT/Projector, you can turn off the computer's LCD display by removing the checkmark from the LCD option under Internal Display. If you select CRT/Projector and turn off the LCD, you can use the Refresh Rate slider to change the display's horizontal frequency.
Page 85 Using a CRT or Projector When you select CRT/Projector as the display mode, you can make additional settings, described as follows: After selecting CRT/Projector as the type of external display (step 6 on page 74), click Advanced Settings. Click the External Display Options tab. Select the following options: External Display Device: Projector...
Page 86 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Display Specifications LCD Display Mode Resolution 1024 x 768 800 x 600 640 x 480 * Achieved by graphic accelerator's dithering function External Display Mode Resolution 1280 x 1024 1024 x 768 800 x 600 640 x 480 Number of colors 16,770,000*...
Page 87: Using The Dual Display Function
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. You can move the cursor off one display and onto the other.
Page 88: Setting The Colors And Resolution For Each Display
Check the Set Dual-Display option and click OK. The System Settings Change dialog box appears. Click Yes to restart your system. Repeat steps 1 to 3 to display the Display Properties screen. Click the display icon number 2. Click Yes. Click OK.
Page 89: Getting Help
Getting Help Sony provides several support options for your Sony computer. When you have questions about your computer and the preinstalled software, check these sources for answers, in the following sequence: V AIO Notebook Computer Read Me First V AIO Notebook...
Page 90 You can use this automated service to request a list of available topics and then select the topics that you want to receive. To contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972). (Requires a fax machine or your fax software.)
Page 91: Troubleshooting
This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer Support. When you reconnect devices be sure to turn off the computer as described in “Shutting Down Your Computer”...
Page 92 Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn the computer off and then turn it on again. Turn on the computer and press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 93 The screen image on my external display is not centered or sized properly Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. See the manual supplied with your display for more information. The video image on my screen is too dark If an external display is connected to the Monitor connector, disconnect the display.
Page 94 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide I cannot play a DVD-ROM If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD-ROM you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD-ROM drive in your notebook computer. The region code is listed on the disc’s packaging.
Page 95 Check that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook computer modem. (All preinstalled programs are compatible.) Call the software publisher or Sony Customer Support. My modem connection is slow The computer’s modem uses K56flex™ technology and V.90 capability.
Page 96 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide If you are having a problem connecting with your Internet Service Provider, check that the ISP is not experiencing technical problems. If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem to that line. My microphone does not work If you are using an external microphone, check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone connector.
Page 97 My PC card is not working Make sure the PC card is compatible with Windows 98. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. The sound of my computer’s fan is too loud Use the PowerPanel utility to change the Thermal Control Strategy setting to Quiet.
Page 98: Using The System And Application Recovery Cds
If you choose the Full Restore without Format option, you may need to reinstall applications that were not included with the computer when you purchased it. If you have any questions on using the System Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support.
Page 99 Slide the power switch forward and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the computer. Turn on the computer. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 100: Using The Application Recovery Cd(S)
Workstation 4.0 drivers on your computer. You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD(s). The application will not run from DOS. If you have any questions on using the Application Recovery CD(s), contact Sony Customer Support. To use the Application Recovery CD(s) Turn on your computer.
Page 101: Notes On Use
Notes on Use This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help protect your computer from potential damage. On Handling the LCD Screen Do not leave the LCD facing the sun as it can damage the LCD. Be careful when using the computer near a window. Do not scratch the LCD or exert pressure on it.
Page 102 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself. Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you will not be using the computer for a long time. When the AC adapter is not used, unplug it from the AC outlet. Use only the AC adapter supplied.
Page 103 In this case, allow at least an hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your computer, and contact your Sony Service Center. On Upgrading the System The procedures described in “Adding Memory” on page 96 assume...
Page 104 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide On Handling Diskettes Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the diskette. Keep diskettes away from magnets. Keep diskettes away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. On Handling CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs Do not touch the surface of the disc.
Page 105 If, after fully charging the battery pack, the battery power is still low, the battery pack may be reaching the end of its life and should be replaced. You do not need to discharge the battery before recharging. If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time, recharge the battery.
Page 106: Adding Memory
VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Adding Memory In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your computer. You can increase memory to 192 MB by installing optional memory modules. A 64 MB memory module is already installed on your computer.
Page 107 Wait until the computer cools down. Then turn your computer upside down and open the cover on the bottom. Remove the memory module from its packaging. Install the memory module. Connectors Slide the memory module into the slot. The connectors snap into place when the board is correctly seated. Close the cover and tighten the screws.
Page 108 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide If the additional memory is not shown, repeat steps 1-9. Performance tab To remove a memory module Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. Unplug your computer and remove the battery packs. Turn your computer upside down and open the cover on the bottom. Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your computer) to discharge static electricity.
Page 109: Limited Warranty Statement
SONY warrants this computer hardware product (“the Product”) against defects in material or workmanship as follows: 1. Labor: For a period of ninety (90) calendar days from the original date of purchase from SONY or a SONY authorized reseller, SONY will repair defects in material or workmanship in the Product at no charge, or pay the associated labor charges to a SONY authorized personal computer service facility.
Page 110 SONY with a credit card authorization to bill your credit card in the event you fail to return the original parts in the postage-paid envelope we provide. The credit card will only be charged for SONY’s list price for the part if the original part has not been returned within thirty (30) days.
Page 111: Garantie Restreinte
Seul le prix courant de SONY pour cette pièce sera porté à votre carte de crédit si la pièce ne lui est pas retournée dans un délai de trente (30) jours.
Page 112 Soutien technique : Bien que le soutien technique ne soit pas offert gratuitement au titre de cette garantie restreinte, SONY a prévu une ligne téléphonique à cet effet. Des frais peuvent être exigés à moins que le soutien technique gratuit et temporaire ne soit expressément indiqué par écrit comme caractéristique de votre Produit.
Page 113: Battery Limited Warranty
Product against defects in material or workmanship for thirty (30) days from your purchase date. If this Product is determined to be defective, SONY will replace the Product at no charge to you. This Limited Warranty contains your exclusive remedy. SONY shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages for breach of any express or implied warranty on this product.
Page 115: Index
Finish left Play right Start (Windows 98) cables floppy disk drive phone power cord video cameras digital video recorder Sony Digital Still canceling commands Caps Lock indicator light CD player remote control volume CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs cleaning ejecting handling inserting playing...
Page 116 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide opening tray using changing display size charge status indicator light charging battery packs using docking station choosing power source cleaning computer coin-operated telephones computer cleaning condensation customizing lithium ion battery setting up online support setup screen starting troubleshooting upgrading...
Page 117 selecting disposal of lithium ion battery docking station connecting disconnecting inserting battery packs lever network personal using to charge batteries Double-click the (atom) icon on the taskbar. drive bay weight saver Drive Bay tab drives DVD-ROM floppy disk installing additional hard disk dual display function DV In/Out DVD-ROM discs...
Page 118 VAIO Notebook Computer User Guide Caps Lock charge status hard drive Num Lock power Scroll Lock infrared communication devices other computers infrared port infrared transmission active distance troubleshooting input devices Insert key inserting battery pack CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs diskettes into drive installing hard drives hardware...
Page 119 navigation keys network connecting connector docking station Notebook Computer Notebook Setup tabs Notebook Setup utility Num Lock indicator light numeric keypad area online help support options opening CD_ROM/DVD-ROM drive tray operator keys output devices adding party phone lines PC card inserting release button removing...
Page 120 Power On Device Sequence tab Power On Password tab Printer tab Touchpad tab setup tabs Shift key Shut Down Windows dialog box Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Notebook Setup screen Sony Notebook Setup utility speakers built-in external troubleshooting volume Start button...
Page 121 warranty weight saver attaching connecting removing Windows 98 Certificate of Authenticity Control Panel Explorer Find window Finish button help key combinations License Agreement registering setup Setup Wizard screen Start button taskbar Index...

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