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Related Manuals for Sony VAIO VAIO MicroTower
Summary of Contents for Sony VAIO VAIO MicroTower
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Page 1: User Guide
VAIO MicroTower ® User Guide ®... - Page 2 Sony, VAIO, VAIO Smart, i.LINK, S-Link, and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony. Windows and the Windows logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation.
- Page 3 If trouble is experienced with this modem, for repair or warranty information, please contact 1-888-4SONY-PC, or write to the Sony Customer Information Center, One Sony Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656.
- Page 4 Connection to Party Line Service is subject to state tariffs. Repair of the modem should be made only by a Sony Service Center or Sony authorized agent. For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972).
- Page 5 About the User Guide ... 1 Choosing a Location for Your Computer... 3 Connecting the Sony Multimedia Computer Display... 5 Connecting a Display, Speakers, and a Microphone... 6 Connecting the Optional Palmrest ... 7 Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse ... 8 Connecting the Phone Line and Phone ...
- Page 6 Starting VAIO Space ...27 VAIO Space Centers...28 Navigating through VAIO Space...29 VAIO Space Controls Using the Software Center ...31 Using the Audio-Video Center...32 Using the Online Center...33 Using the Tool Center...34 Using Tool Center Tools Using the Help Center ...35 Exiting VAIO Space ...35 Calling SOS...39 Troubleshooting ...41...
- Page 7 Using the Keyboard... 71 Changing the Function of the Programmable Buttons Using the Mouse ... 74 Setting Up the Mouse for Left-Hand Use Using the DVD-ROM Drive ... 76 Using the Diskette Drive... 77 Notes on Use... 79 On the Power Source On Disposal of the Lithium Battery On Handling On Installation...
- Page 9 VAIO MicroTower. Getting Help explains the support options available to you, shows you how to use the Sony Online Support service, and offers basic troubleshooting tips. Upgrading and Maintaining Your VAIO MicroTower illustrates how to install an add-in card, add memory, install an internal hard disk drive, and replace the lithium battery.
- Page 11 Hold the mouse with a relaxed hand, and use your whole arm to move it. Take breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the mouse or a joystick may strain muscles or tendons. Sony VAIO User’s Guide...
- Page 12 Furniture and posture—Sit in a chair with good back support and armrests. 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—avoid slouching forward or leaning far backward. Viewing angle of the display—Position the display 18 to 26 inches directly in front of you, with the top of the screen at or a little below eye level.
- Page 13 The Sony Multimedia Computer Display (sold separately) is an integrated audio/video unit with built-in speakers and a microphone. Follow these steps to connect it to your computer. Use the blue symbol to locate the Plug the blue display cable into this connector, and then tighten the two screws to secure the cable.
- Page 14 If you did not purchase the Sony Multimedia Computer Display, you need speakers and a microphone to use the computer’s audio features. Use the blue symbol to locate the Plug the display cable into this connector, and then tighten the two screws to secure the cable.
- Page 15 The keyboard that comes with your computer is equipped with an optional palmrest that you can attach to your keyboard. Follow these steps to connect the palmrest. Place the keyboard and palmrest upside down on a flat surface. Insert the latching posts on the palmrest into the openings on the keyboard.
- Page 16 Follow these steps to connect the keyboard and mouse. Use the dark grey symbol to locate the connector. Plug the purple keyboard cable into this connector. Use the blue-green symbol to locate the connector and insert the blue-green mouse cable into this connector.
- Page 17 You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services, the Internet, and faxing. To use Sony Online Support (SOS), you must also connect a phone. There are two phone jacks on the back panel. Follow these steps to connect your phone line and phone.
- Page 18 Follow these steps to connect the power cords. Plug the power cord into the connector on the computer. If necessary, plug the display power cord into the display. Plug both the display and power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet, power strip, or Uninterruptible Power Supply.
- Page 19 You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of the following peripherals. Television Send audio and video from the computer to the TV. Allows you to play games and watch movies on a large screen. Also useful for business presentations.
- Page 20 Connecting a television to your computer enables you to send audio and video from the computer to the television. (You will be able to watch video and hear audio on both the computer and the television.) Use the yellow symbol to locate the composite on the computer.
- Page 21 Plug the green audio plug from the display cable into the connector on the audio splitter cable . Then use the red symbol to locate connector on the computer. Plug the red microphone cable from the display cable into this connector. Use the yellow symbol to locate the composite connector...
- Page 22 Plug the speaker cable into the connector on the audio splitter cable...
- Page 23 You can connect a printer to your computer to print documents from your computer. Use the dark grey printer cable into this connector. If necessary, plug one end of the printer power cord into the printer, and the other end into a grounded AC wall outlet, power strip, or Uninterrupted Power Supply.
- Page 24 You can connect a joystick or MIDI instrument to your computer. You can also purchase an adapter to connect additional devices. Use the dark grey the joystick or MIDI cable into this connector. symbol to locate the connector. Plug...
- Page 25 Some models of the VAIO MicroTower include i.LINK (IEEE-1394) connectors. See Read Me First for information on your specific model. i.LINK connectors may be located on the front, back, or both the front and back of your system. Use the symbol to locate the the i.LINK device into this connector.
- Page 26 Some models of the VAIO MicroTower include an S Digital Interface) Optical Digital Audio Output connector. See Read Me First for information on your specific model. Locate the S PDIF (Optical Digital Audio Output) connector. Plug the S PDIF device into this connector. PDIF (Sony Phillips...
- Page 27 Some models of the VAIO MicroTower include an S-Link (Control A1) connector. Control A1 connections provide a path for the transmission of control signals, thus enabling automatic operation and control features that are usually associated with integrated audio systems. See Read Me First for information on your specific model.
- Page 28 You can connect Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices to your computer. There is one USB connection on the front of your computer and another one on the back. Use the dark grey the USB cable into this connector. symbol to locate the connector.
- Page 29 You can connect other computer peripherals, such as Sony’s digital still camera, to the computer’s serial port. Plug the serial cable from the digital camera into the serial port.
- Page 30 After you connect all the cables and accessories to your computer, you are ready to turn on the computer. Press the power switch on the display to turn on the power. Press the power switch on the front panel of the computer to turn on the power.
- Page 31 The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few steps to register and configure the Windows software that is already installed on your computer. You do not need to repeat these steps each time you turn on your computer. The on-screen instructions guide you through the registration and configuration process.
- Page 32 Take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive these benefits by registering your computer: Sony Online Support—Talk to a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer. Limited warranty—Protect your investment. See “Limited Warranty Statement”...
- Page 33 When you are done using your computer, you can put it in standby mode rather than turn it off completely. Putting the computer in standby mode allows you to return quickly to normal computer use. Save your work and close any applications that are running. (You can leave Microsoft Windows running.) Press the (Standby) button on the top of the keyboard.
- Page 34 When you’re ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of time, use the following procedure to shut down the computer. Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar to open the Start menu. Click Shut Down to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box. Select Shut down to shut down the computer.
- Page 35 VAIO Space is Sony’s original utility that organizes the preinstalled applications on your VAIO MicroTower, making it easier for you to find and launch the applications on your computer, use the Sony audio and video players, connect to the Internet, and more.
- Page 36 DV Editing Adv. Audio See “Using the Audio-Video Center” on page 32 for details. Easy Internet Allows you to connect to the VAIO Direct Internet, go to selected Sony Club VAIO web sites, and manage ImageStation bookmarks. Internet VAIO Links See “Using the Online Center”...
- Page 37 Move the mouse pointer over an icon on the VAIO Launcher. Categories for each center appear. Click the category text (such as ) to open the VAIO screen.
- Page 38 Goes to the previous screen or page in a sequence. Unavailable until you go to another screen. Goes to the next screen or page in a sequence. Unavailable on the last screen in a sequence. Stops loading the current page (used for web pages). Refreshes the current page (used for web pages).
- Page 39 Move the mouse pointer over the Software Center icon on the VAIO Launcher. Click the text of the category ( VAIO screen. To start an application, click the icon. Display information about a program. Display questions and answers about the highlighted program.
- Page 40 The Audio-Video Center includes the following programs: Video Plays MPEG (.mpg), MPEG2 (.vob, .mpg) and AVI (.avi) video files. Audio Includes the following players: Mixer, which controls the volume and balance for sound files, videos, audio tracks, etc. Media player, which plays WAV (.wav), MIDI (.mid), and the audio portion of MPEG (.mpg) files.
- Page 41 Internet access from GTE Internetworking. (No credit card needed.) VAIO Direct Save money by ordering products direct from Sony Online. Club VAIO Find out the latest developments in the world of VAIO; interact with other VAIO users.
- Page 42 Move the mouse pointer over the Tool Center icon on the VAIO Launcher. Click the text of the category as described below. VAIO Find One-button searches for picture files, movies, sound files, text documents, or Microsoft Works files. Desktop Displays the Windows Display Properties box, which lets you change the wallpaper, screen saver, and display resolution.
- Page 43 Move the mouse pointer over the Help Center icon on the VAIO Launcher. Click to open the VAIO screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to find the appropriate source of help for the problem you are having. Click the (Close) button.
- Page 45 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 MicroTower Read Me First V AIO MicroTower User Guide...
- Page 46 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 47 The SOS application enables you to exchange information with a Sony Customer Support Representative (CSR). Here’s how it works: Type your name, phone number, and the problem details in the SOS window. Dial the SOS hotline with a single click of the mouse.
- Page 48 Click the OK button. The Dialer screen appears. Pick up the handset and click the Dial button as instructed. Your modem dials the toll-free number and connects you to the Sony support center. You are asked whether you wish to test your system or talk to a support representative.
- Page 49 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 Online Support. For more advanced troubleshooting information, see the V AIO MicroTower Reference Manual. You can download this electronic document from Sony’s website at...
- Page 50 Make sure the computer is turned on. Press the Eject button on the drive. Double-click the My Computer icon on the Windows desktop. Right- click the CD-ROM icon. Select the Eject option from the pop-up menu. If the Eject button does not work, you can open the tray by inserting a straightened heavy-weight paper clip into the emergency eject hole.
- Page 51 Check that the speakers are plugged into the connector. See “Connecting the Sony Multimedia Computer Display” on page 5 or “Connecting a Display, Speakers, and a Microphone” on page 6 for details. If the speakers have a mute button, make sure it is off.
- Page 52 Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. Check that the software you are using is compatible with the Sony computer modem. (All preinstalled programs are compatible.) Call the software publisher or Sony Online Support.
- Page 53 If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound, you should adjust the microphone gain by following these steps: Right-click the speaker icon (Volume) in the lower right Windows task tray. Click Open Volume Controls. The Volume Control screen appears. In the Options menu, select Properties.
- Page 54 Check that the keyboard is plugged into the “Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse” on page 8 for details. Check that the taskbar is not hidden or shrunken. Use the mouse to point to the left, right, top, and bottom edges of the screen.
- Page 55 The System Recovery CD(s) contains a backup copy of the all the software originally installed on your hard disk drive. It can be used only to recover the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased. The System Recovery utility gives you three options:...
- Page 56 Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the DVD-ROM drive. Shut down your computer as described on “Shutting Down Your Computer” on page 26. Wait 30 seconds and turn on your computer. Click OK to signify you have read and accept the Microsoft End-User License Agreement.
- Page 57 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 Online Support (SOS). Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all applications.
- Page 59 For more information on upgrading your Sony computer, see the V AIO MicroTower Reference Manual. You can download this electronic document from the Sony website at http://www.
- Page 60 You can add up to two additional PCI boards to the system. Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer, display, and speakers. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. Remove the left-side panel as described on page 63. Identify the expansion slot where you want to insert the add-in board.
- Page 61 Install the add-in board by plugging it into the expansion slot on the system board. Attach any internal cables that the board requires (see the manual for the add-in board). Replace the left-side panel as described on page 70.
- Page 62 SDRAM DIMM module Rev1.0 or 3.3V unbuffered 4-clock 72-bit 66 MHz SDRAM DIMM module Rev1.0. For more information on MicroTower compatible memory, call Sony at 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972). Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer, display, and speakers.
- Page 63 Align the DIMM over the socket. Firmly insert the bottom edge of the DIMM into the socket. Press evenly against the DIMM’s upper corners. The end latches snap into position automatically. Reinstall any add-in cards or components you removed. Replace the diskette drive and cover panels, as described on page 67 to 70.
- Page 64 After several years, when the lithium battery starts to weaken, the system settings stored in CMOS RAM, such as the date and time, may be wrong. When this occurs, you need to replace the lithium battery. To run the Setup utility, press F3 when your computer is starting up. Then press F1 to run the BIOS setup utility.
- Page 65 Replace the bottom and left-side panels, as described on pages 68 and 70, respectively. To run the Setup utility, press F3 when your computer is starting up. Then press F1 to run the BIOS setup utility. Change the default values to the values you wrote down in step 2. Save your Setup changes, and then exit the Setup utility.
- Page 66 Your VAIO MicroTower comes with an available bay to hold an additional hard disk drive. The drive you install must not require front panel access. The hard disk drive access light blinks when either internal drive is active. Configure the jumpers on the new drive as a secondary master (see your drive’s documentation for configuration instructions).
- Page 67 Slide the drive holder forward and then out. Place the drive holder upside down on top of the power supply.
- Page 68 Slide the new drive into the drive holder and align the holes on each side of the drive bay. Secure the drive to the drive holder using any two of the three holes on each side of the drive holder (screws are provided with the new drive).
- Page 69 Place the drive holder against the inside of the front chassis and slide it back. Be sure to align the slots on the drive holder with the tabs on the inside of the chassis. Be sure to slide the drive holder back so that the tabs slip into the notch at the bottom of the slot.
- Page 70 Your computer automatically recognizes the new drive and configures itself accordingly when you turn it on. Format and partition the new drive following the instructions provided with the drive.
- Page 71 Remove the two screws that secure the panel to the chassis. Slide the panel back until it stops. Pull the panel straight out to remove it.
- Page 72 Remove the screw that secures the bottom panel to the chassis. Pull the bottom panel straight out to remove it.
- Page 73 Open the CD tray by inserting a thin, pointed object into the emergency eject opening. Slide the CD tray forward. Remove the front cover of the CD tray by lifting it upwards. Press down on each of the two tabs on the bottom of the front panel to release the panel.
- Page 74 Remove the front panel, as described on page 65. Remove the two screws that secure the diskette drive to the front of the chassis. Pull the diskette drive forward.
- Page 75 Push the diskette drive straight into the drive slot. Replace the two screws that secure the diskette drive to the front of the chassis. Replace the front panel, as described on page 69.
- Page 76 Align the bottom panel with the screw hole on the bottom of the chassis. Replace the screw that secures the bottom panel to the chassis.
- Page 77 Push the front panel straight onto the front of the chassis until it clicks into place. Replace the front cover of the CD tray by sliding it down onto the front of the open tray. Close the CD tray.
- Page 78 Slide the panel forward until it stops. Replace the two screws that secure the panel to the chassis.
- Page 79 Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has additional buttons that perform specific computer-related tasks. Programmable The six programmable buttons along the top of the buttons keyboard are preprogrammed to perform specific functions. To change the function of these buttons, see “Changing the Function of the Programmable Buttons”...
- Page 80 Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Note that you must press NUM LOCK to activate the numeric keypad. (When you do so, the Num Lock light will be on.) Navigation keys Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the...
- Page 81 The keyboard also has three lights: Num Lock The number keys on the numeric keypad are active. Cap Lock Letters appear in uppercase as you type. The SHIFT key lowers the case of typed letters when Cap Lock is on. Scroll Lock The screen scrolls differently.
- Page 82 Using a mouse may be difficult at first, but after you become comfortable using it, you can save a lot of time. The following terms are commonly used to describe actions you perform with a mouse. Point Place the mouse pointer on an item or object. Click Press and release the left mouse button, without moving the mouse.
- Page 83 You can control the mouse with your right or left hand. When you use the mouse with your left-hand, you may find it easier to reverse the button functions. When the functions are reversed, the right mouse button is used for normal clicking and dragging, and the left button is for displaying shortcut menus (right-clicking).
- Page 84 Press the Eject button on the front panel of the computer. The tray slides out. Place the disc in the tray. Close the tray by pushing it gently or by pressing the Eject button on the front panel.
- Page 85 Most diskettes contain a write-protect tab. The write-protect tab prevents accidental changes to a diskette. When the hole is open, the diskette is write-protected—you can’t delete, copy, or save information on the diskette. When the hole is closed, you may write to or modify the diskette contents.
- Page 87 Your computer operates on 100–120 V AC 50/60 Hz for North American countries. The total power draw of installed add-in cards must not exceed the specifications for the power supply. Do not overload the system by installing add-in cards that draw excessive current. The system is designed to provide 2 amps (average) of 5V power for each card in the system not to exceed a total of 12 amps.
- Page 88 Dispose of the lithium battery properly. In some areas, the disposal of lithium batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. You can return your unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service Center. For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972).
- Page 89 You may want to have the computer checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further. Do not place your Sony computer in a location subject to: Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts Direct sunlight...
- Page 90 Do not drop them or bump them against other objects. Your Sony computer will not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX).
- Page 91 When removing a slot cover, be careful not to damage components on the system board or add-in cards. You may need to temporarily remove add-in cards that are next to the slot cover you want to remove. Do not place the computer in a location that is subject to vibration or shock.
- Page 93 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 the Product at no charge, or pay the associated labor charges to a SONY authorized personal computer service facility.
- Page 94 It is likely that the contents of your hard drive will be lost or reformatted in the course of service and SONY will not be responsible for any damage to or loss of any programs, data or other information stored on any media or any part of any Product serviced hereunder.
- Page 95 accessing online support add-in boards adding additional hardware add-in boards precaution adding additional software problems with adding memory adding printers adjusting speaker volume adjusting voltage settings air circulation Alt keys Application Recovery CD applications launching problems with audio splitter cable, connecting Audio-Video Center,using battery disposing...
- Page 96 shutting down starting problems with upgrading connectors additional components keyboard mouse Multimedia Computer Display nonstandard equipment phone power cords precautions Control A1 devices, connecting correction keys (described) Ctrl keys cursor-movement keys (described) customer assistance support options data preventing loss saving DELETE key digital still camera, connecting disconnecting power cords...
- Page 97 indicator lights keyboard input devices setting up INSERT key inserting diskettes into drive installing additional hardware add-in boards precaution installing additional memory installing an internal hard disk drive installing additional software problems with interference Internet joystick joysticks connecting keyboard connecting indicator lights programmable keys programming...
- Page 98 Shift keys shutting down your computer S-Link devices, connecting software adding problems with Software Center, using Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Multimedia Computer Display connecting setting up turning on problems with Sony Online Support call instructions Call SOS button options...
- Page 99 Tool Center,using troubleshooting turning off your computer turning on your computer problems with TV interference Universal Serial Bus devices, connecting upgrading your computer UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) VAIO MicroTower online registration VAIO MicroTower Reference Manual VAIO Space Audio-Video Center exiting Help Center Online Center Software Center...