Sony Vaio PCG-F160 User Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for Vaio PCG-F160:

Advertisement

Quick Links

Sony Notebook Computer
User Guide
PCG-F160 / PCG-F190

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Summary of Contents for Sony Vaio PCG-F160

  • Page 1 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide PCG-F160 / PCG-F190...
  • Page 2: Notice To Users

    Safety Information Owner’s Record The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony Notebook Computer. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call VAIO Link.
  • Page 3: Regulatory Information

    CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Products Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper use and repairs can create a safety hazard. CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT TO EN 60825-1...
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Contents Welcome About the User Guides... 2 Unpacking Your Notebook Computer ... 3 Ergonomic Considerations ... 4 Using Your Notebook Computer Locating the Controls and Connectors ... 7 Connecting a Power Source ... 11 Starting Your Computer ... 15 Shutting Down Your Computer ... 16 Registering Windows Registering Your Computer ...
  • Page 5 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Printer...49 External Display ...50 Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device...53 Digital Video Camera Recorder ...55 MiniDisc deck with MD editor...56 External Mouse or Keyboard...58 External Speakers ...59 External Microphone ...60 Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device...61 Getting Help About Sony’s Support Options ...63...
  • Page 6: Welcome

    Here are just some of the features your Sony Notebook Computer has to offer (read the details and specifications in your Software guide). Exceptional performance –Your PC includes a fast Intel...
  • Page 7: About The User Guides

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide About the User Guides This User Guide offers a quick introduction and reference to your Sony Notebook computer. Using Your VAIO Notebook Computer shows you how to use the standard components of your system. Connecting Peripheral Devices explains how you can add functionality by connecting various peripherals.
  • Page 8: Unpacking Your Notebook Computer

    AC adapter PC card modem* *According to the type of Sony Notebook you purchased, the COM1 PC card modem (and accessories) are optional. However, you need to have these peripherals to enjoy some of the features described in this manual.
  • Page 9: Ergonomic Considerations

    Ergonomic Considerations You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to apply the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments. Arms at desk level Wrists relaxed and flat Position of your computer –...
  • Page 10 Welcome Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.
  • Page 11: Using Your Notebook Computer

    Using Your Notebook Computer This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal devices, such as the touchpad, floppy disk drive, and DVD-ROM / CD-ROM drive. Locating the Controls and Connectors Front LCD screen (pages 23, 75) Speakers (page 59) Keyboard (page 19) Touchpad (page 25)
  • Page 12 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Left Power switch (page 15) Infrared port (page 35) Microphone connector (page 60) Headphone connector AC adapter mains connector and power cord: hazardous voltage, according to EN 60950. All other connectors for this notebook are SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage), according to EN 60950.
  • Page 13 Right PPK buttons (page 34) DVD-ROM / CD-ROM drive (page 29) Back cover Mouse/Keyboard connector (page 58) Serial connector (page 53) Printer (page 49) Using Your Notebook Computer Multi-purpose bay (pages 26, 29) Internal microphone Monitor connector (page 50) USB connector (page 61) DC In (page 11)
  • Page 14 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Bottom Port replicator connector cover Release lever There is a ventilation slot located near the USB connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot when your computer is on. Tilt stands...
  • Page 15: Connecting A Power Source

    Connecting a Power Source You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC Adapter Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on the computer. Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter. Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
  • Page 16: Using Battery Power

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Using Battery Power You can use one or two battery packs as a source of power. The second battery pack inserts into the multi-purpose bay on the right side of the computer. (See “Using a Second Battery Pack” on page 39.) Additional battery packs are available as a separate option.
  • Page 17 To charge the battery pack Connect the AC adapter to the computer. Insert the battery pack. The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85 percent full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes approximately two hours.
  • Page 18: To Remove The Battery Pack

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter system hibernation mode when the battery life is low. To avoid loss of data when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as system suspend or system hibernation.
  • Page 19: Starting Your Computer

    Starting Your Computer Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover. LCD lock lever Slide the power switch on the left side toward the front of the computer until the green power indicator light turns on. Power switch If you hold the power switch in the on position for more than four seconds, the computer turns off.
  • Page 20: Shutting Down Your Computer

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Shutting Down Your Computer To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer. Click the Start button on the Windows Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.
  • Page 21: Registering Windows 98

    Registering Windows The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few steps to register and configure the Windows 98 software that is already installed on your computer. You must register Windows 98 before you can use the computer. The on-screen instructions guide you through the registration and configuration process.
  • Page 22: Registering Your Computer

    Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee Card for details. See your Customer Service Guide for guarantee conditions. Follow these steps to use the Sony Notebook Computer ’s online registration service. You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online registration service.
  • Page 23: Using The Keyboard

    Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Escape Key Shift key Ctrl key Fn key Windows 98 key Keys Descriptions Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the area numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and...
  • Page 24 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Keys Descriptions Escape key The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and places it in the Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the screen shot into a document and print it.
  • Page 25: Combinations And Functions With The Windows 98 Key

    Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key Combinations Functions + F1 Displays Windows Help. + Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays Windows Explorer. Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Files or Folders from the Start menu.
  • Page 26 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Indicators Indicators Functions Power Power on: lights green. System Idle mode: lights red. System suspend mode: flashes red. Battery 1 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the left side of the computer.
  • Page 27: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key

    Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key Combinations/Feature (ESC) System Suspend (F2) Display power status (F3) Speaker switch (F4) Speaker volume (F5) Brightness control (F6) Contrast control (F7) Switch to the external display (F8) (F12) System Hibernation Fn+S System Idle Using Your Notebook Computer Functions Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a...
  • Page 28 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Combinations/Feature Fn+D Video standby Fn+E Eject DVD- / CD-ROM Functions Turns off the LCD in order to save power. Ejects the DVD- / CD-ROM tray.
  • Page 29: Using The Touchpad

    Using the Touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Touchpad Left button Actions Descriptions Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object.
  • Page 30: Using The Floppy Disk Drive

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Floppy Disk Drive The computer comes with the floppy disk drive in the multi-purpose bay. To insert a diskette Hold the diskette with the label side facing up. Gently push the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.
  • Page 31 To remove the floppy disk drive Turn off the computer. There is a RELEASE lever on the bottom of the computer. Slide this lever in the direction of the arrow. Slide the drive out of the multi-purpose bay. Insert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” on page 41. Using Your Notebook Computer Drive RELEASE lever on bottom...
  • Page 32 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide To re-insert the floppy disk drive Turn off the computer. If another device is in the multi-purpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack” on page 40. Insert the floppy disk drive into the multi-purpose bay with the metallic part up.
  • Page 33: Using The Dvd-Rom / Cd-Rom Drive

    Using the DVD-ROM / CD-ROM Drive Your computer comes with a DVD-ROM or a CD-ROM drive. A DVD-ROM drive is available on the model PCG-F190, and a CD-ROM drive on the model PCG-F160. The DVD-ROM drive plays both DVD-ROM and CD-ROM discs. To insert a disc Turn on the computer.
  • Page 34 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Close the tray by pushing it gently. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the DVD- / CD-ROM drive hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your disk drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
  • Page 35: Using Pc Cards

    Type III PC card. These slots are compatible with Card Bus port. Some PC cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See "About the Software" guide, “Sony Notebook Setup” on page 13 for details.
  • Page 36 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Remove the PC card slot protector. When you use a Type III PC card, you need to remove both the top and bottom PC card slot protectors Insert the PC card into the PC card slot, front label facing up. Gently push the card into the slot until the card is fixed into the connector.
  • Page 37 To remove a PC card Close any applications that are using the PC card. Click the PC card icon in the taskbar and close the card. Pull the PC card release button up and press it in toward the computer. Gently grasp the card and pull it out.
  • Page 38: Using The Programmable Power Keys (Ppk)

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Programmable Power Keys (PPK) Press the programmable power keys on top of your keyboard to start your favorite software without having to click the shortcuts on the desktop. Default options of PPK Use any programmable keys by simply pressing it, or in combination with other keys on your keyboard: Shift + PPK, Ctrl + PPK or Alt + PPK.
  • Page 39: Using Infrared Communication Devices

    Using Infrared Communication Devices Your computer includes an infrared port, located on the left side. You can use this port to communicate with other infrared-equipped devices with compatible protocols, such as a digital still camera or other computers. When performing a data transfer with any software using infrared, enable the IrDA in the Control panel of Windows, as follows: In the Control panel, choose Infrared, then Options;...
  • Page 40 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide The active area of infrared transmission extends about 1m (39/8 inches) with a radius of 15 degrees. Check the Status tag of the Infrared Monitor in the Windows Control Panel to determine if the infrared device is detected.
  • Page 41: Using Power Saving Modes

    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 three distinct power saving modes: System Idle, System Suspend and System Hibernation.
  • Page 42: System Hibernation Mode

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide To activate System Suspend mode Press Fn+Esc, or slide the power switch forward quickly. You can also use the PowerPanel utility to enter System Suspend mode. If you slide the power switch forward and hold for more than four seconds, the computer switches off automatically.
  • Page 43: Using A Second Battery Pack

    Using a Second Battery Pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time that you use your computer with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first charges first.
  • Page 44 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide To charge the second battery pack Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator flashes while the battery is charging. See also “To charge the battery pack” on page 13 for more information.
  • Page 45: Using The Weight Saver

    Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multi-purpose bay when it is empty. To attach the Weight Saver If another device is in the multi-purpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the floppy disk drive” on page 27, or “To remove the second battery pack”...
  • Page 46: Pc Card Modem

    Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting or using any of these peripherals and enjoy the software described in the “About the Software” user guide: PC card modem (page 44) Port replicator (page 46) Printer (page 49) External display (pages 50, 51) Digital still camera or other serial device (page 53) Digital Mavica (page 54)
  • Page 47: Pc Card Modem

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide PC card modem Use your PC card modem to connect to a phone line and access the WWW. Connecting to a phone line You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services, the Internet and to register your computer and software online.
  • Page 48 Use the supplied communication tool which provides a full range of features: fax, data, telephone directory. See “About the Software” guide for details. In order to register your Sony Notebook Computer, register your software online, and use VAIO Link, you must connect to a phone line.
  • Page 49: Port Replicator

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Port Replicator Your notebook computer supports the use of an optional port replicator. Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer. Network (ethernet) Monitor (page 50) Serial (page 53) Mouse/Keyboard (page 58) The port replicator can be powered only with an AC power adapter.
  • Page 50 To attach your computer to the port replicator To supply power to your computer while it is connected to the port replicator, you must connect the AC adapter directly to the port replicator. Turn off your computer and disconnect all peripherals. On the bottom of the computer, lift the port replicator port cover.
  • Page 51: Turn On The Computer

    Power Port replicator connector Turn on the computer. Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony PCGA-AC71 adapter. To disconnect your port replicator completely from mains voltage unplug the AC adapter. When attaching your computer to the port replicator, do not attempt to insert or remove the battery pack.
  • Page 52: Printer

    See the manual that came with your printer for more information on installation and use. Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software. See "About the Software" guide,“Sony Notebook Setup” on page 13.
  • Page 53: External Display

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide External Display You can connect an external display to your notebook computer. For example, you can use the computer with any of the following: Computer display (monitor) (page 50) Multimedia computer display (page 51) Projector (page 52) Use your external display as second screen, or get a virtual desktop (See "About the Software"...
  • Page 54 To connect a multimedia computer display You can connect the notebook computer to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. Use the symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Plug the display cable into this connector. Use the symbol to locate the Headphone connector.
  • Page 55 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide To connect a projector You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD Projector. Monitor RGB signal cable (not supplied) See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and use.
  • Page 56: Digital Still Camera Or Other Serial Device

    Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device You can connect other computer peripherals, such as a digital still camera, to the Serial connector on your computer. To connect a digital still camera Use the symbol to locate the Serial connector. Plug the connecting cable into this port on the computer and into the Digital I/O connector on the digital still camera.
  • Page 57 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide To use the Digital Mavica with diskettes The Digital Mavica provides you still images you can copy and edit on your computer, using PictureGear software. See "About the Software" guide,“PictureGear” on page 5. Notebook Computer 3.5”...
  • Page 58: Digital Video Camera Recorder

    The Sony digital video camera recorder (DCR-PC7) is pictured; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled “DV Out”, “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are i.LINK-compatible. See the manual that came with your digital video camera recorder for more information on installation and use.
  • Page 59: Minidisc Deck With Md Editor

    VAIO computer to enjoy the high quality of sound and recordings through optical data transfer. When you connect a Sony MD deck equipped with a CONTROL A1 terminal to a Sony CD player (equipped with both digital optical output and CONTROL A1 connector), you can record and edit your MiniDiscs via your computer.
  • Page 60: Your Computer

    MD desk. Turn on all the devices. Launch MD Editor to edit the tracks on your MiniDisc. The Control A1 feature is working only with Sony devices. For further information, please refer to your Sony Dealer. Connecting Peripheral Devices A1 Controller...
  • Page 61: External Mouse Or Keyboard

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to your computer. To connect both a mouse and a keyboard, use the port replicator (see “Port Replicator” on page 46). The Mouse/Keyboard connector requires a ®...
  • Page 62: External Speakers

    External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on. Do not place diskettes on the speakers; the speaker’s magnetic field may damage the data on the diskettes.
  • Page 63: External Microphone

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. To connect an external microphone Use the to locate the Microphone connector. Plug the microphone cable into this connector.
  • Page 64: Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Device

    Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device You can connect a USB device to your computer. To connect a USB device Use the symbol to locate the USB connector. Plug one end of the USB cable into this port and the other end into the USB device. USB ports are included to provide state-of-the-art technology.
  • Page 65: Getting Help

    Getting Help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, as well as troubleshooting tips for your computer. About Sony’s Support Options Sony provides several support options for your computer. When you have questions about your computer and the pre-installed software,...
  • Page 66: Troubleshooting

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact VAIO Link. Table of troubleshooting About the computer and software, see page 65...
  • Page 67: About The Computer And Software

    Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn the computer off and then turn it on again. Turn on the computer and press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
  • Page 68 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press the Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears. Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key. Press the arrow keys to select Exit (Save Changes) and then press the Enter The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?”...
  • Page 69: About The Display

    My software program “locks up” or crashes Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See the About Your Sony Notebook Computer guide on how to contact them. My mouse doesn’t work If you are using an external mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the mouse connector.
  • Page 70: About Cd-Roms And Diskettes

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide The video image on my screen is too dark If an external display is connected to the Monitor connector, disconnect the display. About CD-ROMs and diskettes My DVD- / CD-ROM drive tray does not open Make sure the computer is turned on.
  • Page 71: About Sound

    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. For cleaning instructions, see “On Cleaning CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Discs” on page 78.
  • Page 72: About Modem

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide My microphone doesn’t work If you are using an external microphone, check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone connector. See “External Microphone” on page 60 for details. About modem My modem (PC card) doesn’t work Check that your PC card is properly inserted in your computer (label side facing up).
  • Page 73: About Peripherals

    Check the connection, then turn on the power again. My PC card is not working Make sure the PC card is compatible with Windows 98. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. I cannot print.
  • Page 74: Using The Product Recovery Cd-Roms

    Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs The following sections describe how to use the Recovery CD-ROMs. You will find a set of two Recovery CD-ROMs in your Product Recovery Pack: The System Recovery CD-ROM (vol. 1 of 2) allows you to perform a full system recovery;...
  • Page 75 You can only use these Recovery CD-ROMs on the Sony notebook you purchased and not on any other Sony PC or other manufacturer's PC! To perform a system recovery, the notebook should not be docked (port replicator). You need to complete the Windows recovery.
  • Page 76 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Performing an Application Recovery. The application recovery utility allows you to reinstall individual applications. Reinstalling a program can fix the problems encountered if it does not run cor- rectly any more. You must run the Application Recovery CD (vol. 2 of 2) from Windows The application will not run from DOS.
  • Page 77: Notes On Use

    Due to the use of high precision components and the technology of the electronic connectors of your Notebook computer and memory modules, to avoid the invalidation of your Guarantee by mishandling, Sony Corporation recommends that: you contact your dealer to install a new memory module, you do not install it yourself, you do not open the unit or touch the connectors .
  • Page 78 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/or bright points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.
  • Page 79 In this case, allow at least an hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your computer, and contact your Sony Service Center. On Handling Diskettes Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the...
  • Page 80 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide Keep diskettes away from magnets. Keep diskettes away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. On Handling CD-ROM and DVD-ROM Discs Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc.
  • Page 81 If, after fully charging the battery pack, the battery power is still low, the battery pack may be reaching the end of its life and should be replaced. You do not need to discharge the battery before recharging. If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time, recharge the battery.
  • Page 82: Index

    63 63 63 63 right Start (Windows 98) cables floppy disk drive phone power cord video cameras digital video recorder Sony Digital Still canceling commands Caps Lock 47 47 47 47 indicator light CD drive tray troubleshooting CD-ROM discs troubleshooting CD-ROM drive...
  • Page 83 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide power source 12 12 12 12 cleaning computer 76 76 76 76 computer cleaning 76 76 76 76 condensation 77 77 77 77 lithium ion battery iv iv iv iv setting up 7 7 7 7...
  • Page 84 speakers 23 23 23 23 59 59 59 59 Finish button 17 17 17 17 floppy disk drive 7 7 7 7 9 9 9 9 cable 7 7 7 7 disconnecting 27 27 27 27 troubleshooting 69 69 69 69 Fn key 20 20 20 20 combination commands...
  • Page 85 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide maintenance 76 76 76 76 79 79 79 79 microphone 8 8 8 8 connecting 60 60 60 60 connector 51 51 51 51 troubleshooting 70 70 70 70 modem troubleshooting 70 70 70 70...
  • Page 86 53 53 53 53 setting up Windows 98 17 17 17 17 Shift key 20 20 20 20 Shut Down Windows dialog box Sony e-mail support service Speakers volume 23 23 23 23 speakers 7 7 7 7 built-in 7 7 7 7...
  • Page 87 Sony Notebook Computer User Guide License Agreement 17 17 17 17 registering 17 17 17 17 setup 17 17 17 17 Setup Wizard screen 17 17 17 17 Start button 16 16 16 16 taskbar 16 16 16 16 66 66 66 66...

This manual is also suitable for:

Vaio pcg-f190

Table of Contents