Sony PCG-FRV26 VAIO User Guide  (primary manual) User Manual
Sony PCG-FRV26 VAIO User Guide  (primary manual) User Manual

Sony PCG-FRV26 VAIO User Guide (primary manual) User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Sony PCG-FRV26 VAIO User Guide (primary manual)

  • Page 1 Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software programs. In the left navigation window, click the topics you want to learn more about, and that information will be displayed in this main window.
  • Page 2: Powering Your Computer

    Powering Your Computer Your VAIO computer comes with a battery and an AC adapter. This chapter explains how to install and use these supplied ® accessories to power your computer. It also describes ways you can efficiently utilize the battery as a power source. ...
  • Page 3: Using Ac Power

    Using AC Power The supplied battery is not charged when you receive your computer. To use your computer immediately, use the supplied AC adapter as the power source. While the computer uses AC power, it automatically charges the battery if it is inserted. Using the Battery for more information on installing and using your battery.
  • Page 4 Connecting the AC adapter To connect the AC adapter Plug the AC adapter cable into the DC IN port. Connecting the AC Adapter to the Com puter Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. Use only the supplied AC adapter with your computer. Page 4...
  • Page 5 Turning on the computer To turn on the computer Lift the lid of the computer by sliding the front switch to the right and lifting the lid. You may need to hold the bottom of the computer firmly to lift the lid. Opening the Com puter Press the power button until the power indicator turns on.
  • Page 6: Using The Battery

    Using the Battery Your computer comes equipped with one battery, which is not fully charged at the time of purchase. To use your computer immediately, use the supplied AC adapter as the power source. While the computer uses AC power, it automatically charges the battery if it is inserted.
  • Page 7 Inserting a battery To insert a battery Push the battery bay cover down to open it. The battery bay cover swings out but does not detach from the computer. Opening the Battery Bay Slide the battery into the battery bay. If the computer is on, it automatically detects the battery. Inserting a Battery Push the battery bay cover up until it clicks into place.
  • Page 8 Removing a battery If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery from the computer to avoid damaging the battery. You can remove the battery when the computer is on or off. If the computer is on, connect the AC adapter and exit a power saving mode before you remove the battery. To remove a battery Push the battery bay cover down to open it.
  • Page 9 Locating battery information You can display information for each of the batteries installed in your computer. To view battery information Click Start on the Windows ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click Power Options. The Power Options Properties window appears. Select the Power Meter tab.
  • Page 10 Charging a battery You will need to charge the battery if battery power drops below 10 percent or you have not used the battery for a long time. The lithium-ion battery supplied with your computer may be recharged at any time, whether you wait until the battery is completely or partially discharged.
  • Page 11 Notes on batteries  Never leave the battery in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as under direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun.  While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern. ...
  • Page 12 Frequently asked questions How do I know when the battery is charged? To determine the remaining battery charge, see When is the computer using AC power? When the computer is directly connected to the AC adapter, it uses AC power, even if a battery is installed. When should I recharge the battery? ...
  • Page 13: Conserving Battery Power

    Conserving Battery Power You may use the power saving modes and power schemes to conserve battery power. Conserving battery power may significantly extend your computing time, depending on how you use your computer.  Using power saving modes  Using power schemes ...
  • Page 14 Using power saving modes 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. Use the Standby and Hibernate power saving modes to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action.
  • Page 15 Using power schemes You can use the preset power schemes or you can customize the power profiles to conserve power. By using the power schemes and power profiles, you control the power supplied to different devices, such as the computer screen (LCD) and the hard disk drive, in your computer.
  • Page 16 power icon on the taskbar for more information. Select the Advanced tab, and select your changes from the drop-down menus in the Power buttons box. See Using power saving modes for information on how Standby and Hibernate modes affect power consumption. Click Apply.
  • Page 17 Frequently asked questions Can my computer enter Hibernate mode while using battery power? Your computer can enter Hibernate mode while using battery power, but some software programs and peripheral devices prevent the system from entering Hibernate mode at all. If you are using a program that prevents the system from entering Hibernate mode, save your data frequently.
  • Page 18: Internet And Network Connections

    Internet and Network Connections  Internet Connections  Network Connections  Connecting Another VAIO Computer Page 18...
  • Page 19: Internet Connections

    Connection Wizard guides you through the process of connecting to the Internet and choosing an Internet service provider (ISP) or setting up an existing account. When you connect to the Internet, you can register your VAIO services, and gain access to Sony Computing Support. ...
  • Page 20 Setting up a dial-up Internet connection Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line via a telephone cable (not supplied). Once you set up your telephone cable, you're ready to connect to the Internet. To connect a telephone cable Locate the Modem jack on your computer.
  • Page 21 Setting up an Ethernet Internet connection Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect an Ethernet cable Locate the Ethernet port on your computer. For location information, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the "Setting Up"...
  • Page 22 Customizing your Internet connection The Internet Properties dialog box enables you to change the way you view the Internet. You can change your home page, fonts, language, and colors. You can also regulate content and set browsing preferences. To open the Internet Properties dialog box Click Start on the Windows ®...
  • Page 23  Make sure the telephone number the program is dialing is correct.  Make sure the software you are using is compatible with the computer's modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) Why is my modem connection slow? Your computer is equipped with a V.90 compatible modem. Many factors may influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment, such as fax machines or other modems.
  • Page 24: Network Connections

    Network Connections With a Sony computer, you can easily set up or connect to a variety of networks. The New Connection Wizard and Network Setup Wizard make it easy to gain access to remote and local area networks (LANs) using wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connections.
  • Page 25 Using Ethernet and dial-up connections For setting up local area networks (LANs), Ethernet is a widely installed technology. Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect to a local area network using a telephone or Ethernet cable Connect an Ethernet or telephone cable to your computer.
  • Page 26 From the Start menu, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and click New Connection Wizard. Click Next. If you are prompted to the Local Information window, follow the on-screen instructions, and then close the window. Click Connect to the network at my workplace, and then click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions.
  • Page 27: Connecting Another Vaio Computer

    N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
  • Page 28 Connecting VAIO computers When you connect two VAIO computers, you can use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer. You can also print from a printer attached to either computer. To connect VAIO computers Plug one end of the i.LINK cable into the i.LINK port on each computer. Click Start on the Windows ®...
  • Page 29 Page 29...
  • Page 30 Disconnecting VAIO computers You can disconnect two VAIO computers when the computers are on or off. To disconnect VAIO computers when the computers are on Close all open files that are shared with the connected computers. Unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on each computer. To disconnect VAIO computer when the computers are off ...
  • Page 31: Frequently Asked Questions

    N K is a trademark of Sony us ed only to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
  • Page 32: Cds And Dvds

    CDs and DVDs  Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs  Copying and Playing CDs  Playing DVDs Page 32...
  • Page 33: Inserting And Ejecting Cds Or Dvds

    Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CDs or DVDs. Adhesive labels may damage the optical drive if they come off while the disc is in the drive. To insert a disc Turn on the computer or exit a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) if one is active. For more information, Using power saving modes.
  • Page 34 Lift the disc from the drive. Push the drive tray gently to close it. Page 34...
  • Page 35: Copying And Playing Cds

    Copying and Playing CDs Your computer comes equipped with a CD-RW/DVD drive, which plays DVD and most DVD-R discs, and reads and writes data to CD-R and CD-RW discs.  Playing CDs  Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R Page 35...
  • Page 36 Playing CDs Before you play an audio CD, you may need to enable your computer's audio feature. To enable the audio feature Click Start on the Windows ® The System Properties dialog box appears. As a shortcut, you can press Fn + the Windows key Select the Hardware tab, and in the Device Manager box, click Device Manager.
  • Page 37 Page 37...
  • Page 38 Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R You can copy files to CD-R or CD-RW discs if your VAIO Before you write data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc, read the following notes to avoid a computer malfunction and ensure the best writing results: ...
  • Page 39 Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc. T he read/write drive letter des ignation may vary, depending on your s ys tem's hardware c onfiguration. Page 39...
  • Page 40: Playing Dvds

    Playing DVDs You can play DVDs in your computer's optical drive and view the video on a TV. The type of optical drive installed in or connected to your computer may vary, depending on the model you purchased.  Connecting your computer to a TV ...
  • Page 41 Connecting your computer to a TV Your computer is equipped with an A/V OUT jack, which enables you to connect your computer to a TV. To locate the A/V OUT jack on your computer, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the "Setting Up" chapter of your printed VAIO Quick Start.
  • Page 42 Playing DVDs on a TV To play a DVD Close all open programs. Disable the screen saver and the virus checker. Change the power schemes to Max Battery if it is not already selected. See information. Connect the TV to the computer. See Press the Fn+F7 keys to view the image on either the computer screen (LCD) or the TV.
  • Page 43 Disconnecting your computer from a TV Simply unplug the audio-video (AV) cable from the A/V OUT jack on the computer. Page 43...
  • Page 44 Playing DVDs on your computer Your computer is equipped with an optical drive that enables you to watch DVDs and most DVD-R discs on your computer. To play a DVD while using AC power Close all open programs. Insert the DVD into the optical drive. Open a preinstalled DVD program, such as InterVideo WinDVD Click Start on the taskbar, and point to All Programs.
  • Page 45 Frequently asked questions How do I maintain CDs and DVDs?  Avoid touching the surface of the disc with your fingers. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of the disc may cause reading errors.  Try using canned compressed air to clean dusty discs. ...
  • Page 46 between the speakers and the computer. Make sure the CD audio feature is enabled and the correct driver software is installed. Follow these steps: Click Start on the Windows System. The System Properties window appears. Select the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager in the Device Manager box. A window with a listing of the computer's hardware devices appears.
  • Page 47 resolution. Selecting a display for more information. How do I switch the computer screen (LCD) from LCD to TV? Press the Fn+F7 keys to view the image on either the computer screen (LCD) or the TV. See information. The Fn+F7 key combination will not work once a DVD is inserted into the optical drive. Switching the display while a DVD is playing may cause the computer to malfunction, and you may need to restart the DVD software.
  • Page 48: Printer Connections

    Printer Connections  Printing With Your Computer Page 48...
  • Page 49: Printing With Your Computer

    Printing With Your Computer Your computer is compatible with many popular printers. However, to ensure the best performance, printers must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows ®  Connecting a printer  Disconnecting a printer  Frequently asked questions operating system installed on your computer. ®...
  • Page 50 Connecting a printer You can connect a universal serial bus (USB) printer or, depending on the model, a parallel port printer to your computer. The New Hardware Wizard enables you to easily install the printer software, but some printers require separate driver software installation.
  • Page 51 Restart your computer by clicking Start, Turn Off Computer, and Restart. Make sure the computer recognizes the printer. Follow these steps:  Click Start, Control Panel, Printers and Other Hardware, and then Printers and Faxes. If the computer recognizes the printer, it will be listed in the Printers and Other Hardware window. If the computer does not recognize the printer, you may need to install the printer driver software.
  • Page 52 Disconnecting a printer You can disconnect the printer cable when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting a printer when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a printer ...
  • Page 53 Frequently asked questions Why can't I print a document?  Make sure the printer is on, and the printer cable is securely connected to the ports on your printer and computer. Connecting a printer for more information.  Make sure the printer is compatible with the Microsoft ...
  • Page 54: Computer Features

    Computer Features  Using the Touch Pad  Using Memory Stick Media  Changing the Window Design of Sony Programs Page 54...
  • Page 55: Using The Touchpad

    Using the Touch Pad A pointing device called a touch pad is located in front of the keyboard. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touch pad.  Describing the touch pad ...
  • Page 56 Describing the touch pad Locating the Touch Pad Touch Pad Action Description Sliding one finger Equivalent to using a mouse to place the pointer on an item. Tapping once Equivalent to pressing the left button once. Tapping twice Equivalent to pressing the left button twice. Sliding one finger while pressing the left button Moving your finger along the right edge of the touch pad only with programs that support a touch pad scroll feature.)
  • Page 57 Customizing the touch pad Open the Mouse Properties dialog box to set your touch pad and mouse preferences, such as changing pointers, enabling or disabling the tapping feature, clicking both buttons simultaneously, and adjusting the touch pad speed. To customize the touch pad and mouse ...
  • Page 58 Frequently asked questions What do I do if the touch pad does not work?  Try restarting your computer. Follow these steps: Press the Windows key Press U. The Turn off computer window opens. Press R to restart the computer. ...
  • Page 59: Using Memory Stick Media

    Using Memory Stick Media This compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. The medium is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, the media can be used for external data storage.
  • Page 60 MG Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage or OpenMG software. Visit the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport regularly for the latest information on the new memory Stick PRO media.
  • Page 61 Inserting Memory Stick media Before using Memory Stick media, back up important data. The media slot accommodates only one Memory Stick media at a time. To insert Memory Stick media Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot. Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins.
  • Page 62 Depending on the model you purchased, the Sony Memory Stick window may appear when you insert a Memory Stick media. From this window, you can choose to view, print, copy or organize your Memory Stick images or data. If the Sony...
  • Page 63 Write-protecting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the ® tab to the right or left to set or release write-protection. When the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick media is set to LOCK, data cannot be recorded or erased.
  • Page 64 From the Start menu, click My Computer. The My Computer window appears. Right-click Sony MemoryStick, and click Format from the menu. The Format MemoryStick dialog box appears. Select Quick Format in the Format options box, and then click Start.
  • Page 65 Removing Memory Stick media If the media is removed prematurely, a blue screen with a message may appear prompting you to continue or exit. Reinsert the media into the slot and press Enter to continue. This enables the media to finish reading or writing data. To remove Memory Stick media Wait a minimum of 10 seconds after the Memory Stick media finishes reading or writing data before removing the media.
  • Page 66 Using recorded music requires permission of the copyright holders.  Sony is not responsible for music files that cannot be recorded from a CD or downloaded from other sources. Can I copy images from a digital video camera using Memory Stick media? Yes, and you can view video clips that you have recorded with Memory Stick media-compatible video camera recorders.
  • Page 67: Changing The Window Design Of Sony Programs

    Click << or >> to view the designs. Click Apply to select a design that appears in the center window. The UI Design Selector window design changes. The window design of certain Sony programs will match the UI Design Selector window. Click OK.
  • Page 68 Mice and Keyboards  Using the Keyboard  Connecting Mice and Keyboards Page 68...
  • Page 69: Using The Keyboard

    Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter's, but your computer keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks.  Key locations and descriptions  Combinations and functions with the Windows key  Indicator lights  Combinations and functions with the Fn key Page 69...
  • Page 70 Key locations and descriptions Keyboard Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations, such as addition and subtraction. Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of the numeric keys.
  • Page 71 Page 71...
  • Page 72 Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function Displays the VAIO Help and Support Center window. +Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays the desktop. Displays the My Computer window. Displays the Search Results window, where you can find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start menu.
  • Page 73 Indicator lights Indicator Function Power Turns on when the power to the computer is on, blinks in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is in Hibernate mode or off. Battery Turns on when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery is running out of power, double-blinks when the battery is charging.
  • Page 74 Combinations and functions with the Fn key Combinations/ Feature Function Fn+F3 Toggles the built-in speakers off and on. Fn+F4 Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. To increase volume, press the Fn+F4 keys, plus the Up Arrow key To decrease volume, press the Fn+F4 keys, plus the Down Arrow Fn+F5 Adjusts the brightness of the computer screen (LCD).
  • Page 75: Connecting Mice And Keyboards

    Connecting Mice and Keyboards Your computer is compatible with many popular mice and keyboards. To function properly, the device you connect must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows ® computer's built-in keyboard and key functions, see  Connecting a mouse or keyboard ...
  • Page 76 Connecting a mouse or keyboard Your computer can be on or off when connecting a universal serial bus (USB) mouse or keyboard. If you connect the mouse or keyboard when the computer is on, you may need to restart the computer for it to recognize the device. See asked questions for more information.
  • Page 77 Disconnecting a mouse or keyboard You can disconnect a USB mouse or keyboard when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the mouse or keyboard when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a mouse or keyboard ...
  • Page 78 Frequently asked questions What do I do if the computer doesn't recognize the mouse?  Make sure the mouse is securely plugged into the port. See  Restart the computer with the mouse connected to the computer. What do I do if the pointer doesn't move when I use the mouse? ...
  • Page 79 Floppy Disk and PC Card Connections  Using a Floppy Disk Drive  Using PC Cards Page 79...
  • Page 80: Using A Floppy Disk Drive

    Using a Floppy Disk Drive You can connect a floppy disk drive to your computer. The floppy disk drive enables you to read or write data to a floppy disk.  Connecting a floppy disk drive  Inserting and removing floppy disks ...
  • Page 81 Connecting a floppy disk drive You can connect a floppy disk drive when your computer is on or off. Connecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To connect a USB floppy disk drive Close any active programs to prevent data loss.
  • Page 82 Inserting and removing floppy disks To write data to a disk, use one that is not write-protected or disable the write-protect feature. The floppy disk drive cannot write data to a disk if it is inserted into the drive improperly. To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label facing up.
  • Page 83 Protecting floppy disks  Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk.  Keep floppy disks away from magnets, direct sunlight, and heat sources. Page 83...
  • Page 84 Disconnecting a floppy disk drive You can disconnect a USB floppy disk drive when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect the drive while the computer is on Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon appears.
  • Page 85 Storing a floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk drive cable and connector into the side compartment on the floppy disk drive. Storing a Floppy Disk Driv e Page 85...
  • Page 86 Frequently asked questions Why doesn't the Safely Remove Hardware icon The computer does not recognize the floppy disk drive. First, make sure the USB cable is properly connected to the USB port. If you need to secure the connection, wait a few moments for the computer to recognize the drive. If the icon still does not appear, follow these steps: Close all programs that were accessing the floppy disk drive.
  • Page 87: Using Pc Cards

    Using PC Cards Your computer includes one or more PC Card slots. A PC Card enables you to connect devices such as an optical drive, floppy disk drive, or Network Interface Card (NIC). See your VAIO Computer Specifications for the type of PC Card that is compatible with your computer. These slots are ®...
  • Page 88 Inserting PC Cards To insert a PC Card Make sure the front label of the PC Card is facing up. Push the PC Card gently into the slot. The system automatically detects the PC Card. Do not force a PC Card into the slot; this may damage the connector pins. When a PC Card is inserted, do not place your computer in a bag or case.
  • Page 89 Removing PC Cards You can remove PC Cards while the computer is on or off. PC Cards draw power from the computer when they are inserted into the PC Card slot, whether or not you use the card. If you are not using your PC Card and you are using a battery as a power source, remove the PC Card from the PC Card slot to conserve battery power.
  • Page 90  See the instructions that accompanied your PC Card. You may need to install driver software if you are not using a Sony PC Card. Why doesn't my computer recognize attached devices? For some PC Cards, if you alternate between normal power operation and the Standby or Hibernate modes while the card is inserted into the PC Card slot, the computer may not recognize the PC Card or the connected device.
  • Page 91: Audio And Video Connections

    Audio and Video Connections  Using i.LINK Digital-Video Recorders  Using Computer Monitors and Projectors  Using Speakers  Using Microphones Page 91...
  • Page 92: Using I.link Digital-Video Recorders

    N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tor. T he i.LI...
  • Page 93 Connecting an i.LINK digital video recorder You can connect an i.LINK digital video (DV) recorder when the computer is on or off. Connecting the DV recorder when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. Before you connect an i.LINK digital video recorder ...
  • Page 94 Disconnecting the i.LINK digital video recorder You can disconnect the digital video recorder while the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on the computer. Disconnecting the cable when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
  • Page 95 Using a digital video camera recorder Your computer comes with preinstalled driver software that is compatible with most Sony digital video camera recorders. If you purchased a camera that comes with its own driver software, install these drivers before you use the camera.
  • Page 96 N K is a trademark of Sony us ed only to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
  • Page 97: Using Computer Monitors And Projectors

    Using Computer Monitors and Projectors You can connect an external display (such as a computer monitor or a projector) to your computer.  Connecting a computer monitor  Connecting a multimedia device  Selecting a display  Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector Page 97...
  • Page 98 Connecting a computer monitor Your computer can display images to the computer screen (LCD), to an external computer monitor, or to both the LCD and external monitor while your computer is on. To connect a computer monitor Make sure the computer monitor is plugged into an AC outlet. Plug the display cable into the Monitor (VGA) port If it is not already on, turn on the computer monitor.
  • Page 99 Connecting a multimedia device You can connect a multimedia device, such as a multimedia computer monitor or projector, to your computer. Connecting a multimedia device enables you to display images on your computer screen (LCD), the multimedia device, or both. For information on connecting a TV to your computer, see To connect a multimedia computer monitor or projector Plug the device into an AC outlet.
  • Page 100 Click Display. The Display Properties window appears. Click the Settings tab, and then click the Advanced button. Click to the Displays tab. The Sony Notebook LCD and RADEON IGP Properties window appears. (Multiple Monitors) and RADEON IGP Properties taskbar, and then click Control Panel and Appearance and Themes.
  • Page 101 Click the Monitor, Panel, or TV button on the upper left corner of the display. Click Apply. Click OK. For more information, click Help. If you cannot see your movie or DVD on the external display, change the monitor or TV setting by clicking on the Primary icon on the display panel of your choice.
  • Page 102 Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector You can disconnect the external computer monitor or projector by unplugging the display or Monitor (VGA) cable from your computer's port. Disconnecting the external display when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
  • Page 103: Using Speakers

    Your computer comes with built-in stereo speakers. If you wish to enhance the sound quality of your computer, you can purchase and connect external speakers. If you want to purchase speakers, make sure the speakers are designed for computer use. You can shop Sony online at ...
  • Page 104 Connecting speakers You can connect speakers to your computer to enhance the sound quality of your computer. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers. The speakers' magnetic field may damage the data stored on the floppy disks. To connect speakers to your computer Turn down the volume of the speakers.
  • Page 105 Disconnecting speakers You can disconnect external speakers when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the speaker cable from the Headphone jack on the computer. Page 105...
  • Page 106 Adjusting the volume To adjust the volume for playing CDs and DVDs, use the Volume icon playing CDs or DVDs does not adjust the volume for recording to CDs or DVDs. You can only adjust the recording volume in the Recording Control window. See for instructions on how to open this window.
  • Page 107 Enabling the audio feature If you do not hear sound when playing a CD or DVD, you may need to enable the audio feature. To enable the audio feature Click Start on the Windows ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System. The System Properties window appears. Select the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager.
  • Page 108 Frequently asked questions Why won't my speakers work?  Make sure the speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up loud enough to hear sound.  Your speakers may not be designed for computer use.  If the speakers have a mute button, set the button to off. ...
  • Page 109: Using Microphones

    Using Microphones You can connect an external microphone to your computer to enhance the sound input to your computer. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. If you wish to purchase a microphone, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
  • Page 110 Connecting a microphone Plug the microphone cable into the Microphone jack on the computer. Connecting a Microphone See the guide that accompanied your microphone for more information on its installation and use. A protruding dot loc ated next to the M ic rophone jac k dis tinguis hes this jac k from the H eadphone jac k. Page 110...
  • Page 111 Disconnecting a microphone You can disconnect an external microphone when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the microphone cable from the Microphone jack on the computer. Page 111...
  • Page 112 Using a microphone to record sound You can record messages, memos, etc. by connecting a microphone to the Microphone jack To record from a microphone Double-click the Volume icon From the Options menu, click Properties. The Properties dialog box appears. Click to select the Recording option in the Adjust volume for box.
  • Page 113 Frequently asked questions Why doesn't my microphone work? If you are using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is turned on and is properly plugged into the Microphone jack on the computer. See Connecting a microphone for more information. Page 113...
  • Page 114: Memory Upgrades

    Memory Upgrades Before you upgrade your computer's memory, make sure you read the safety information in For the type of module and amount of memory installed on your computer, see the Computer Specifications.  Precautions and Procedures  Removing and Installing Memory Modules ...
  • Page 115: Precautions And Procedures

    Precautions and Procedures Sony recommends that memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, go to: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. The procedures described below assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.
  • Page 116: Removing And Installing Memory Modules

    Removing and Installing Memory Modules Make sure you read the safety information in When installing a memory module, do not open the module package until you are ready to install it. The package protects the module from Electrostatic discharge (ESD). For memory upgrades and information about which memory modules to use, refer to your VAIO Welcome page.
  • Page 117 Push the module down until it snaps into place. When the module is correctly seated, close the memory bay. Replace the fastening screw(s) on the memory bay. Make sure the system recognizes the new memory module. See information. Confirming Added Memory Capacity for more Page 117...
  • Page 118: Confirming Added Memory Capacity

    Confirming Added Memory Capacity After you've installed a new memory module, make sure the operating system recognizes it. To check your system's memory Turn on or restart the computer. Click Start on the Windows ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System. The System Properties window appears. On the General tab, you can view the amount of system memory.
  • Page 119: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve some basic problems you may encounter when using your computer. For more troubleshooting topics refer to the VAIO sources before you contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).  Troubleshooting Your Computer  Support Options Computer User Guide.
  • Page 120: Troubleshooting Your Computer

    Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears again. Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts. If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). What do I do if the message "Operating system not found" appears when my computer starts, and why won't Windows start? ...
  • Page 121 Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Restart the computer. Press F2 when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS Setup window appears. Press the Right Arrow key Press the Down Arrow key SETUP items appears.
  • Page 122 To write data files to a CD-R or CD-RW disc, use the Microsoft computer.  To write audio files to a CD-R or CD-RW, use the Sony SonicStage program preinstalled on your computer. Follow these steps to open Sony SonicStage: Click Start, and then click All Programs.
  • Page 123 A vailable on s elec ted models . Page 123...
  • Page 124: Support Options

    Sony Computing Support This service provides instant access to information on commonly encountered problems. Type a description of the problem and the Knowledge Database searches for the corresponding solutions online. You can visit Sony Computing Support at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Computer Quick Start provide information on how to ®...

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