Sony Vaio PCG-631M User Manual

Sony Vaio PCG-631M User Manual

Sony notebook user guide

Advertisement

N
Sony Notebook User Guide
P C G - R 6 0 0 M F / P C G - R 6 0 0 H F P /
P C G - R 6 0 0 H F P K I T

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Summary of Contents for Sony Vaio PCG-631M

  • Page 1 Sony Notebook User Guide P C G - R 6 0 0 M F / P C G - R 6 0 0 H F P / P C G - R 6 0 0 H F P K I T...
  • 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 license agreement.
  • Page 3 All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. ® NERGY ® ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. NERGY NERGY TAR ® 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 in the space provided here. Refer to the model number and serial number if you call VAIO-Link.
  • Page 5 Read this first ❑ TV sets ❑ Speakers ❑ Magnets ❑ Magnetic bracelets. 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. ❑...
  • Page 6: Regulatory Information

    Read this first Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that the 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). This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in following areas: residential, commercial and light-industrial.
  • 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 ❑ 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

    ❑ A Modem Regulations flyer. Online documentation The Sony Notebook User Guide: ❑ Using your notebook shows you how to use the standard components of your system. In this part of the manual you will also find out what you can do with a Memory Stick™ and how to use Wireless LAN.
  • Page 10 Welcome Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications. ❑ About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system. ❑ Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart Capture.
  • Page 11 Welcome Your notebook and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: main unit rechargeable battery pack product recovery CD-ROMs documentation pack AC adapter power cord phone plug (country specific) phone cable docking station (only bundled with PCG-R600HFPKIT)
  • Page 12: Ergonomic Considerations

    Welcome Ergonomic considerations You will be using your notebook as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments. ❑ Position of 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 13 Welcome ❑ Viewing angle of the computer’s display – Use the display’s tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the display as well. ❑...
  • Page 14: 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 ❑ Connecting a power source ❑ Starting your notebook ❑ Shutting down your notebook ❑...
  • Page 15: Locating Controls And Connectors

    Using your notebook Locating controls and connectors Right USB connector (page 71) Headphone connector (page 70) Microphone connector (page 70) S400 i.LINK connector (page 74) DC Out Monitor connector (page 65) Ethernet network (page 79) connector Phone line jack (page 46)
  • Page 16 Using your notebook Left DC In USB connector Ventilation slot (page 18) MagicGate™ Memory Stick™ slot (page 71) PC Card slot (page 37) (page 34)
  • Page 17 Using your notebook Front Hard disk drive indicator Num Lock indicator Caps Lock indicator Scroll Lock indicator LCD screen Power switch Keyboard Touchpad Power indicator Battery indicator Memory Stick™ indicator Docking station indicator Wireless LAN indicator Wireless LAN switch OFF ON WIRELESS Left/right buttons Jog Dial™...
  • Page 18 Using your notebook Back battery connector Bottom battery lock lever battery release lever (page 19) (page 19) docking connector (page 19) reset switch (page 56)
  • Page 19: 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 20: Using The Battery Pack

    Using your notebook 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. Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
  • Page 21 Using your notebook Inserting the battery pack To insert the battery, proceed as follows: Move the lock lever (1) on the bottom of the computer to the Unlock position. Align the grooves (2) and tabs on the battery (3) with the tabs and notches on the back of the computer, and then slide the battery towards the computer until it clicks into place.
  • Page 22 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 23 Using your notebook Removing the battery pack To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer and close the cover. Slide the lock lever (1) to the Unlock position. Slide the release lever (2) to the Unlock position and slide the battery away from the computer. ✍...
  • Page 24: 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 switch (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on. If necessary, press <Fn>+<F5>...
  • Page 25: 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. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears.
  • Page 26: Using The Keyboard

    Using your notebook Using the keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific notebook-related tasks.
  • Page 27 Using your notebook Keys Escape key (1) Function keys (2) Print Screen key (3) Correction keys (4) <Fn> key (5) Navigation keys (6) Application key (7) Numeric keypad area (8) Operator keys (9) ® Windows key (10) Descriptions The <Esc> (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks.
  • Page 28 Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the <Windows> key Combinations + F1 + Tab + Ctrl + F Shift + <Fn> + + Insert Functions Displays Help and Support Center. Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays My Computer. Displays the Search Results window to find a file or folder.
  • Page 29 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Power Battery Memory Stick™ Docking station Light Hard disk Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock Functions Power on: lights green. Standby mode: flashes umber. Hibernate mode: turns off. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the computer. Turns on when the Memory Stick™...
  • Page 30 Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key Combinations/ Feature <Fn> + (ESC): Standby <Fn> + (F3): speaker switch <Fn> + (F4): speaker volume <Fn> + (F5): brightness control <Fn> + (F7)*: switch to the external display <Fn> + (F12): Hibernate * First you need to connect your external display, then you turn on your notebook.
  • Page 31: Using The Touchpad

    Using your notebook Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad. 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 (1) to place the pointer (4) on an item or object. click Press the left button (2) once.
  • Page 32: Using The Jog Dial

    Using your notebook Using the Jog Dial™ Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ (1) between the right and left touchpad buttons of your computer. You can turn (2) or / and press (3) the Jog Dial™ to scroll the window, select a software, adjust the internal speaker volume, etc.
  • Page 33 Using your notebook The Jog Dial™ window is always displayed on the screen. This window has two modes: Launcher mode or Guide mode. The Jog Dial™ window is in Launcher mode until you start an application or the Jog Dial™ window becomes active. When an arrow appears next to an item in the Jog Dial™...
  • Page 34 To select another item, switch to Launcher mode and repeat this procedure. Software supporting Jog Dial™ If the Sony software supporting the Jog Dial™ control is active, you can use Jog Dial™ control functions allocated to each software. Software not supporting Jog Dial™...
  • Page 35: Using Pc Cards

    ✍ Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.
  • Page 36: Removing A Pc Card

    Using your notebook For some PC Cards, if you alternate between Normal power operation and Standby or Hibernate power management modes while the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not recognized. Reboot your system to correct the problem. The computer will return to its original state if you restart it.
  • Page 37 Do not select and stop a USB disc drive, a Sony i.LINK™ CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or a Sony i.LINK™ DVD-ROM drive. If you stopped a Sony i.LINK™ CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or a Sony i.LINK™ DVD-ROM drive by mistake, disconnect the docking station and connect...
  • Page 38: Using Memory Stick

    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. Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The Memory Stick™...
  • Page 39 Using your notebook The main advantages of the Memory Stick™ are its: ❑ Compactness: with dimensions of just 21.5 mm (W) x 2.8 mm (H) x 50 mm (D), compatible products can also be small, lightweight and attractive in their design. ❑...
  • Page 40 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 41 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: ❑...
  • Page 42 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 43 (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 44 Voice recorders Other: ❑ VAIO notebooks ❑ VAIO desktops ❑ 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 45: 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™ with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick™ slot. Carefully slide the Memory Stick™...
  • Page 46 Using your notebook 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 47: Using The Modem

    Using your notebook Using the modem Your notebook is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect to a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, but also 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.
  • Page 48: 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 49: 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: Press <Fn>+<F12>. The Save to Disk Manager screen appears and the notebooks enters Hibernate mode.
  • Page 50: Using Wireless Lan (Wlan)

    The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities, but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming. You can still access information, internet/intranet and network resources, even in the middle of a meeting, or as you move from one place to another.
  • Page 51 Using your notebook Communicating without Access Point (ad-hoc) An ad-hoc network is a network in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other central controller or Access Point. Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network.
  • Page 52 Using your notebook Fill in the Network key*. The network key should be 5 digits. You can choose whatever you want. Click OK. Your Network name appears in the Preferred networks box. Click Advanced. The Advanced dialog box appears. Select the Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only check box. Click Close.
  • Page 53 An infrastructure network is a network that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an Access Point, for example the Sony PCWA-A200 Access Point. The Access Point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a central controller for the Wireless LAN. The Access Point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range.
  • Page 54 Using your notebook Type the Network Key. The network key has the same name as the network ID, but without the first digit. For example: - ID of the network: 09316a (6 digits) - Network key: 9316a (5 digits) Click Connect. After 30 seconds, the connection is established.
  • Page 55 When you change the channel number on one computer, you need to change the channel number manually on all other devices intended for wireless connection. If you use a non-Sony Access Point, read the manual of the Access Point to be sure which channel to use. For more information on Wireless LAN, read the Wireless LAN Regulations flyer.
  • Page 56: 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 57: Connecting A Docking Station

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a docking station You can use the PCGA-DSM5 CD-RW/DVD docking station* or the PCGA-DSD5 DVD docking station (both optional) to connect peripheral devices such as a printer or an external display or to use diskettes. Different ports are available when the main unit is docked and not docked. * Bundled with PCG-R600HFPKIT.
  • Page 58 Connecting peripheral devices Left & Bottom i.LINK™ network switch Release lever (page 74) Ventilation slot (page 60) Floppy disk drive (page 64)
  • Page 59 Connecting peripheral devices Back DC In Ethernet network connector USB connectors S400 i.LINK™ connector (page 18) Monitor connector (page 79) Printer connector (page 71) Serial port (page 74) (page 65) (page 72)
  • Page 60: Attaching Your Computer To The Docking Station

    Connecting peripheral devices Attaching your computer to the docking station To connect your computer to the docking station, proceed as follows: Plug the AC adapter cable into the DC In connector on the docking station and the other end to an AC outlet.
  • Page 61 Connecting peripheral devices Disconnecting your computer from the docking station To disconnect your computer from the docking station, proceed as follows: If the notebook is off, simply follow steps 3 to 5. If the notebook is on, click Start, then Eject PC or pull the UNDOCK switch towards you. Close the cover of your notebook.
  • Page 62 Connecting peripheral devices ✍ Do not undock the notebook when the docking station indicator is on. If you undock when the docking station indicator on the notebook is on, you may lose data or malfunction may occur. Make sure all cables and peripherals are removed before disconnecting the main unit from the docking station. Make sure the battery is connected when you undock the main unit while it is running.
  • Page 63 Connecting peripheral devices When you finish using a disc, wait until the LED indicator turns off and then press the Eject button to remove the disc. If the disc does not come out when you press the eject button, go to My Computer. Select the drive, click the right button of your mouse and select Eject.
  • Page 64 Connecting peripheral devices Using the CD-RW function To burn CDs, you can use CD-RW and CD-R discs: ❑ The CD-RW (CD-ReWritable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write, erase and rewrite a program or other data. ❑...
  • Page 65 Connecting peripheral devices ❑ Always use the AC adapter as the power source for your computer when you write data to a CD-RW or CD-R. It is not possible to burn CDs when the CD-RW/DVD-ROM docking station is not connected to AC power.
  • Page 66: 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) ❑ 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 67 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a computer display You can connect a computer display either directly to your notebook or via the docking station. You may not be able to display the computer's LCD and the external display together, depending on the type of computer display and projector used.
  • Page 68 Connecting peripheral devices To connect a computer display to the docking station, proceed as follows: Plug the monitor plug (1) into the docking station monitor connector (2). Plug the power cord (3) into an AC outlet. ✍ If the main unit is docked, you can only use the monitor connector on the docking station...
  • Page 69: Connecting A Projector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can connect a projector (such as the Sony LCD projector) directly to your notebook or via the docking station. To connect a projector to your notebook, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the notebook monitor connector identified by the monitor symbol.
  • Page 70 Connecting peripheral devices To connect a projector to your docking station, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the docking station monitor connector identified by the monitor symbol. Plug the audio cable (2) into the notebook earphone connector identified by the Connect the power cord (3) of the projector into an AC outlet.
  • Page 71: Microphone 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 into the notebook earphone connector identified by the Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on. ✍...
  • Page 72: Usb Connector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mouse You can connect a USB device (e.g. mouse, floppy disk drive, printer…) to your notebook or to your docking station. If the main unit is docked, you can only use the USB connectors on the docking station. To connect a USB mouse to the notebook, proceed as follows: Plug the USB cable (1) into one of the notebook USB connectors (2) identified by the symbol.
  • Page 73: Connecting A Printer

    You do not need to shut down the computer before connecting or disconnecting a USB peripheral. You can connect the optional Sony USB mouse (PCGA-UMS1 series). As the driver for this mouse is preinstalled on your computer, you can use the mouse by just connecting it.
  • Page 74 Plug the printer cable (1) supplied with the printer into the docking station printer connector (2) identified by the Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet. ✍ Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer settings in the Sony Notebook Setup software. symbol.
  • Page 75: Connecting An I.link™ Device

    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 76 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a digital video camera recorder To connect a digital video camera recorder to your notebook, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the i.LINK™ cable (1) into the i.LINK™ connector (2) of the computer and the other end into the DV Out connector (3) on the digital video camera recorder.
  • Page 77 On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled 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 can copy images from it to your computer via a Memory Stick™. To do so,...
  • Page 78 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting two VAIO notebooks With Smart Connect you can copy, edit or delete files on another VAIO computer (equipped with Smart Connect) connected to your computer with an optional i.LINK™ cable (1). You can also print a document on a printer connected to another VAIO computer. If the notebook is connected to the optional docking station, proceed as follows to exchange data with another computer using an i.LINK™...
  • Page 79 Connecting peripheral devices Turn on the notebook. Connect your computer to another computer with the i.LINK™ cable. ✍ When you use Smart Connect to connect two VAIO computers, you must assign each computer a unique name by which it can be identified when the two computers are networked.
  • Page 80: Ethernet Network

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your notebook or your docking station 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. To connect your notebook to a LAN, proceed as follows: Connect the network cable to the Ethernet network connector (1) on the notebook.
  • Page 81 Connecting peripheral devices To connect your docking station to a LAN, proceed as follows: Connect the network cable to the Ethernet network connector (1) on the docking station. ✍ If the main unit is docked, you can only use the ethernet network connector on the docking station. 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 the Ethernet network connector on your notebook.
  • Page 82: Getting Help

    Getting help Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, and provides troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony support options Sony provides several support options for your computer. Printed documentation supplied with your notebook ❑...
  • Page 83 ❑ Glossary refers to terms used in this manual. Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications. ❑ About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system.
  • Page 84: Other Sources Of Information

    Getting help Other sources of information ❑ The Online help files that accompany your pre-installed software contain instructions on using the software. ❑ VAIO-Link website: if you have any problem with your computer, you can access the VAIO-Link web site. Go to: http://www.vaio-link.com ❑...
  • Page 85: 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 ❑ About the display ❑...
  • Page 86: About The Computer And Software

    If the floppy disk drive is empty, proceed as follows to initialize the BIOS: 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. Set the date (month/day/year).
  • Page 87 Getting help Press <Enter>. Press the arrow keys to select System Time. Set the time (hour:minute:second). Press <Enter>. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu. Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press <Enter>. The message Load default configuration now? appears.
  • Page 88 ❑ Check that the USB mouse is plugged into the USB connector. ❑ If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse, check that the appropriate driver and mouseware are properly installed. ® taskbar, click the Start button, click Turn Off Computer, and then...
  • Page 89: About The Display

    Getting help About the display My LCD does not display anything ❑ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. ❑ Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer is on. ❑...
  • Page 90 Getting help I cannot play a CD-ROM ❑ After inserting the CD, wait for a few seconds for the system to detect it before you try to access it. ❑ Make sure the label of the disc is facing up. ❑...
  • Page 91 Getting help ❑ A dirty or damaged disc may cause the computer to 'hang' while it tries to read the disc. If necessary, reboot the computer, remove the disc and then check that it is not dirty or damaged. ❑ Check your PG (Parental Guidance) in the DVD software as this might be preventing you from playing certain DVDs when it is activated.
  • Page 92 Getting help ❑ Make sure you place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up. The disc tray does not eject even when the eject button is pressed ❑ Check that the notebook is turned on. ❑ The CD-writing application software may be stopping the disc from being ejected.
  • Page 93: About Sound

    Getting help Select the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager. Select Universal Serial Bus controllers, then Y-E Data USB Floppy. From the Action menu, click Uninstall. Keep clicking OK until the Confirmation of deletion of device message appears. Select Scan for hardware changes from the Action menu. The UFD5 is recognized as drive A.
  • Page 94: Headphone Connector

    Getting help ❑ The speaker volume may be turned to the minimum. Press <Fn>+<F4>, and then press the volume. ❑ If your computer is powered by battery, check that the battery is inserted properly and that it is charged. ❑ If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check that the volume is turned up.
  • Page 95: About The Modem

    Getting help Turn on your notebook. You can now operate the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or the DVD-ROM drive. ✍ Do not set the i.LINK™ network switch when the notebook is on. It causes malfunction. Set the i.LINK™ network switch after removing all cables connected to the docking station. I cannot operate the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive or the DVD-ROM in the docking station connected to the notebook when the notebook is connected to another computer by means of an i.LINK™...
  • Page 96: About Peripherals

    Getting help ❑ Check that the phone number the program is dialing, is correct. ❑ In the Phone and Modem Options dialog box (Control Panel / Phone and Modem Options), check that your modem is listed on the Modems tab, and that the location information is correct on the Dialing Rules tab.
  • Page 97 ❑ Use manual import/export in DVGate motion if 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. I cannot print ❑...
  • Page 98: 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 99 Getting help ❑ Check if the Access Point is displayed in the Available networks window. ❑ To check this, click Start and then Control Panel. ❑ Double-click the Network Connections icon. ❑ Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon and select Properties. ❑...
  • Page 100 Getting help The maximum communication speed is not reached The maximum communication speed is 11 Mbps, but this can never be reached. The normal speed is 4 to 5 Mbps. The communication speed slows down when transferring MPEG2 data. The file transfer is interrupted This can happen when the file size is too big.
  • Page 101: Adding And Removing Memory

    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: ❑...
  • Page 102: Removing A Memory Module

    Precautions ❑ Disconnect the system from its power source and from any telecommunication links, networks, or modems before you open the system. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or equipment damage. ❑ Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can damage memory modules and other components. Install the memory Module only at an ESD workstation.
  • Page 103 Precautions Unscrew the two screws at the bottom of your computer. Slide the LCD lock lever and lift the cover. Slide the keyboard toward the LCD display, then lift it away slightly. Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side. Gently turn it over the touchpad.
  • Page 104 Precautions Gently replace the keyboard, then press it into your computer. Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard. Close the computer cover, then tighten the screws on the bottom of the computer. * Only possible on PCG-R600HFP and PCG-R600HFPKIT. Adding a memory module To add a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices.
  • Page 105 Precautions Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side, then gently turn it over the touchpad. Be careful not to detach the cable (1) when lifting the keyboard. Remove the existing memory module. Remove the new memory module from its packaging. Install the memory module.
  • Page 106 Precautions ❑ Snap the connectors into place when the board is correctly seated. Gently replace the keyboard, then press it into your computer. Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard.
  • Page 107: Other Precautions

    To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Go to Sony Notebook Setup via the Start menu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. In the About this Computer tab you can view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory does not appear, repeat the whole procedure and restart the notebook.
  • Page 108 Precautions 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. To avoid damaging your hard disk: ❑ Do not give a shock to your computer. ❑...
  • Page 109 Precautions On using power source ❑ Your computer operates on 100V-240V AC 50/60 Hz. ❑ Do not share the AC outlet with other power-consuming equipment, such as a photocopier or shredder. ❑ You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device prevents damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges such as those that may occur during an electrical storm.
  • Page 110 Precautions ❑ 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. The electromagnetic field of your computer may cause a malfunction.
  • Page 111 Precautions On handling CD-ROMs ❑ Do not touch the surface of the disc. ❑ Do not drop or bend the disc. ❑ Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors. Always hold the disc by its edge and its central hole, as shown: ❑...
  • Page 112 Precautions ❑ While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery pack heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern. ❑ Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat. ❑ Keep the battery pack dry. ❑...
  • Page 113 Precautions ❑ Do not disassemble or modify Memory Sticks™. ❑ 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, ❑...
  • Page 114: Notebook Specifications

    Notebook specifications: PCG-R600MF / PCG-R600HFP / PCG-R600HFPKIT Notebook specifications: PCG-R600MF / PCG-R600HFP / PCG-R600HFPKIT Model name Model number Operating system Processor Hard disk drive Standard RAM Maximum RAM LCD screen L2 cache memory MPEG Graphics Sound capabilities Internal modem PCG-R600MF PCG-633M ®...
  • Page 115 Notebook specifications: PCG-R600MF / PCG-R600HFP / PCG-R600HFPKIT Model name Telecommunication capabilities Expansion capabilities Built-in capabilities Special buttons Connection capabilities on notebook Supplied accessories Docking station (PCGA-DSM5 / PCGA-DSD5) Power source Power management Battery Dimensions Width Height Depth PCG-R600MF Ethernet network, PSTN data connectivity One PCMCIA type II Card and Cardbus support Stereo speakers, touchpad, Jog Dial™, Memory Stick™...
  • Page 116 Notebook specifications: PCG-R600MF / PCG-R600HFP / PCG-R600HFPKIT Model name Weight With battery With battery & optional docking station Operating temperature Storage temperature Operating humidity Storage humidity Wireless communication: Method of communication: Wireless LAN Usable frequency band Maximum communication speed (1) Communication distance (2) Wireless channels Modulation method...
  • Page 117 Notebook specifications: PCG-R600MF / PCG-R600HFP / PCG-R600HFPKIT Model name PCG-R600MF PCG-R600HFP / PCG-R600HFPKIT Length of network key (3) 64, 128 bit ‡ See our special Guarantee extension conditions. Specifications are subject to change without notice. (1) The maximum communication speed of the IEEE802.11b standard can vary depending on the obstacles or the distance between the communication devices, the radio waves, the operating system or the software you use.
  • Page 118 (optional) Docking station specifications (optional) Docking station specifications Model name Optical drive Floppy disk drive Connectors Dimensions Weight * PCG-DSM5 is bundled with PCG-R600HFPKIT. Specifications are subject to change without notice. CD-RW/DVD Docking station (PCGA-DSM5)* up to 24x max. CD-ROM reading speed up to 8x max.
  • Page 119 Glossary Glossary This section refers to terms used in this manual. 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 CardBus Definition The <F1>...
  • Page 120 Glossary Term CD-ROM CD-RW DC In Docking station Driver DVD-ROM Ethernet Definition Abbreviation for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. A high-capacity optical disc, usually 650 MB in size, capable of being read from but not written to. Short for Compact Disc-ReWriteable. Compact Disc that can be used to write or rewrite data to it.
  • Page 121 The EULA can be found in the Read this first section at the beginning of the software guide or directly on the VAIO desktop. 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 122 Glossary Term MAPI maximum RAM Motherboard MPEG Operating system Partition Definition 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 123 A PCMCIA card. The term PC Card is more widely used than PCMCIA. See PCMCIA. PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) is the name of the group that produced the specification for the credit card-sized plug-in boards for laptop computers. The cards used to be called PCMCIA cards, but as this was rather unpronounceable, these cards are now termed PC cards.
  • Page 124 Glossary Term Resolution RGB signal cable SDRAM Standard RAM System recovery System recovery CD-ROM Definition Short for Random Access Memory, the memory used to run programs and store data in current use. RAM is the fastest kind of memory to read from and write to. Information stored in RAM is lost when you turn off the computer.
  • Page 125 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.

Table of Contents