Sony Vaio PCG-FX301 User Manual
Sony Vaio PCG-FX301 User Manual

Sony Vaio PCG-FX301 User Manual

Hide thumbs Also See for Vaio PCG-FX301:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

N
Sony notebook
user guide
P C G - F X 3 0 1

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Summary of Contents for Sony Vaio PCG-FX301

  • Page 1 Sony notebook user guide P C G - F X 3 0 1...
  • 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: Energy Star

    Specifications are subject to change without notice. Energy Star As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. NERGY NERGY The International E Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use of NERGY computers and their office equipment.
  • Page 4: Safety Information

    Safety information Owner's record The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number if you call VAIO-Link. Serial number: ________________________...
  • Page 5 Read this first 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 storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations. Be cautious when installing or modifying telephone lines.
  • Page 6: Regulatory Information

    3 metres (9.8 feet). The DVD-ROM-drive is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards. CLASS 1...
  • 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 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. Multimedia features – Enjoy audio, video CDs and DVDs.
  • Page 9: Documentation Pack

    Online documentation The Sony Notebook User Guide: Using Your Sony 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™.
  • Page 10 Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting. Refer to the Microsoft Quick Start manual for more information on Windows. Go to http://www.club-vaio.sony-europe.com to find online tutorials about your favorite VAIO software.
  • Page 11 Welcome Your notebook and its accessories Following hardware items are in the box: main unit product recovery CD-ROMs documentation pack AC adapter rechargeable battery pack removable floppy disk drive (installed at factory) weight saver video cable phone plug (country specific) phone cable power cord CD/DVD-ROM drive...
  • 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. Lighting –...
  • Page 14: Using Your Notebook

    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 Right power button DVD-ROM drive multi-purpose bay for weight saver or second battery with weight saver or removable floppy disk drive) (page 28)
  • Page 15 Using your notebook Left TV Out connector microphone connector 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 65) i.LINK™...
  • Page 16 Using your notebook Front LCD screen speakers keyboard touchpad left/right buttons power indicator (page 35) battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 35) hard disk drive indicator (page 31) Num Lock indicator (page 36) Caps Lock indicator (page 36) Scroll Lock indicator (page 34) (page 34) (page 34)
  • Page 17 Using your notebook Back phone line jack USB connector serial connector printer There is a ventilation slot located near the USB connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on. (page 58) monitor connector (page 70) Ethernet connector (page 72) USB connector (page 72)
  • Page 18 Using your notebook Bottom release lever tilt stands (page 12) (page 12)
  • 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 Using the battery pack You can use one or two batteries as a source of power. You can insert the second battery pack into the multi- purpose bay on the right side of the computer. Additional battery packs are available as a separate option. The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.
  • Page 21 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 (1) (the battery indicator (2) light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges).
  • Page 22 Using your notebook battery indicator light status double blink When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink. Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the computer.
  • Page 23 Using your notebook Removing the battery pack To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. Open the cover of the battery bay. Pull out the battery pack. Close the cover of the battery bay. You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer is in Standby mode.
  • Page 24 Using your notebook Using the second battery pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time you use your computer with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first, charges first.
  • Page 25 Using your notebook Slide the eject lever on the bottom of the weight saver toward the front of the computer to lock it. If you attach two battery packs, you can remove one of them without shutting down the computer. When removing one battery pack, make sure that the other battery pack indicator is on.
  • Page 26 Using your notebook Charging the second battery pack To charge the second battery pack, proceed as follows: Keep the battery pack (1-3) in the computer while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator (2) flashes while the battery is charging. When the battery indicator stops flashing, the battery is fully charged.
  • Page 27 Using your notebook Removing the second battery pack To remove the second battery pack, proceed as follows: Slide the eject lever on the bottom of the weight saver, in the direction of arrow 1. Slide the release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2. Remove the weight saver.
  • Page 28: 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 button (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on. If necessary, press <Fn>+<F5>...
  • Page 29: 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 on the Windows Click Shut Down. The Shut Down Windows dialog box appears.
  • Page 30: Registering Your Notebook

    Using your notebook Registering your notebook You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive the following benefits by registering your computer: VAIO-Link – If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, you can check the VAIO-Link web site for a possible solution: http://www.vaio-link.com...
  • Page 31: Using The Keyboard

    Using your notebook Using the keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but has additional keys that perform specific notebook-related tasks. Keys Escape key (1) Function keys (2) 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 32 Using your notebook Keys Print Screen key (3) Correction keys (4) Navigation keys (5) Application key (6) Numeric keypad area (7) Operator keys (8-11-12) ® Windows key (9) Fn key (10) Descriptions The <Print Screen> key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and moves it to the Windows Clipboard.
  • Page 33: Combinations And Functions With The Windows Key

    Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combinations + F1 + Tab + Ctrl + F Shift + Fn + + Insert Functions Displays Windows Help. Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays Windows Explorer. Displays the Search Results window to find a file or folder. This is equivalent to selecting Search and then For files or Folders from the Start menu.
  • Page 34 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Power Battery 1 Battery 2 Light hard disk Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock Functions Power on: lights green. Standby mode: flashes umber. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the left side of the computer. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the right side of the computer.
  • Page 35: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key

    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 + (F8)* (F12): Hibernate * First you need to connect your external display, then you turn on your notebook.
  • Page 36: Using The Touchpad

    Using your notebook Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad (1). 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 to place the pointer (2) on an item or object. click Press the left button (3) once.
  • Page 37: Using The Dvd-Rom Drive

    Using your notebook Using the DVD-ROM drive Your computer is equipped with a DVD-ROM drive. To insert a disc, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Press the eject button (1) to open the DVD-ROM drive. The tray slides out. Place a CD/DVD-ROM disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up until the disc clicks into place.
  • Page 38 Using your notebook Close the tray by pushing it gently. When the computer is in Standby or Hibernate mode, you cannot insert or remove a disc. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the disc drive hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your disc drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
  • Page 39 Using your notebook To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROM discs, do the following: You can play DVDs using a DVD-ROM drive and the WinDVD software. See the help file on the WinDVD software for details. Your computer should not be connected to the port replicator while playing DVD movies or using DVD applications.
  • Page 40: Using The Weight Saver

    Using your notebook Using the weight saver The weight saver protects the second battery as well as the multi-purpose bay when it is empty. To attach the weight saver, proceed as follows: If another device is in the multi-purpose bay, remove the device. Pull out the guide (1) of the weight saver and slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow (2) until it clicks.
  • Page 41 Using your notebook To remove the weight saver, proceed as follows: Slide the eject lever of the weight saver in the direction of arrow 1. Slide the release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2.
  • Page 42: Using The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using your notebook Using the floppy disk drive The computer is equipped with a removable floppy disk drive. Inserting a diskette To insert a diskette, proceed as follows: Hold the diskette (1) with the label side facing up. Gently push the diskette into the floppy disk drive (2) until it clicks into place. Removing a diskette To remove a diskette, proceed as follows: Wait untill the LED indicator (1) turns off.
  • Page 43: Removing The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using your notebook Removing the floppy disk drive To remove the floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. Slide the release lever (1) on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the arrow. Slide the drive (2) out of the multi-purpose bay. Insert the weight saver.
  • Page 44 Using your notebook Re-inserting the floppy disk drive To insert the floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. If another device is in the multi-purpose bay (1), remove the device. Insert the floppy disk drive (2) into the multi-purpose bay with the metallic part up. Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the release lever locks into place.
  • Page 45: Using Pc Cards

    Using your notebook Using PC Cards This computer has a Card Bus PC Card slot that supports Type I, Type II or Type III PC Cards. PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices. You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC Card. Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card, proceed as follows: Push the release button.
  • Page 46 Using your notebook Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot front label facing up. Gently push the PC Card slot into the connector. The PC Card is automatically detected by your system. The Unplug or Eject Hardware icon appears in the system tray. Some devices may not function properly if you repeat Returning to Normal mode from Standby mode or Hibernate mode.
  • Page 47: Removing A Pc Card

    Using your notebook Removing a PC Card Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not work properly. If you want to remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7. To remove a PC Card, proceed as follows: Double-click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon in the taskbar.
  • Page 48: The Memory Stick

    ™ ™ , coloured blue or purple. ™ , coloured white. ™ from the Sony Style website (http://www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer. ™ ™ . The Memory Stick is a compact, portable, ™ can already be used with an...
  • Page 49 Using your notebook Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The ™ Memory Stick is the resulting medium, through which digital devices can be instantly connected. With it, you can download data from any compatible device, then transfer it to another in a single and instant transfer.
  • Page 50 Using your notebook The future of Memory Stick™ ™ Memory Stick's potential is virtually unlimited, with the number of compatible products increasing rapidly in both personal and professional spheres. ™ The introduction of the 256 MB and 512 MB Memory Stick is anticipated in 2002, and a 1 gigabyte capacity ™...
  • Page 51 Using your notebook Generic Memory Stick™ The original Memory Stick 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. Because it is easy to remove and transport safely, you can use Memory Stick any compatible device to transfer and share the information you have saved.
  • Page 52 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. ™...
  • Page 53: Copyright Protection

    (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 54: Compatible Devices

    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 ™ -enabled products on the market or announced for introduction world- ™...
  • Page 55: Using The Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Using the Memory Stick™ The Memory Stick™ is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage. You need an optional PC Card adapter to use this function and one PC Card slot. Only insert one Memory Stick™...
  • Page 56: 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™ (1) into the optional PC Card adapter (2). Push the release button. The release button pops out.
  • Page 57: Removing A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Double-click the Unplug or Eject Hardware icon in the taskbar. The Unplug or Eject hardware dialog box appears. Select the hardware you want to unplug. Click Stop.
  • Page 58: 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.
  • Page 59: 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 60: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your notebook If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off automatically. When the computer is in Standby mode, you cannot insert a disc. Standby requires less time than Hibernate. Standby uses more power than Hibernate. If you do not work with your computer on AC power for 30 minutes, it will enter System Standby mode.
  • Page 61: 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. Connecting an external display Connecting external speakers Connecting an external microphone...
  • Page 62: 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); Multimedia computer display; 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 63 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a computer display To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) in the monitor connector (2) If necessary, plug one end of the display’s power cord (3) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
  • Page 64 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a multimedia computer display You can connect the notebook to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. To connect a multimedia computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) in the monitor connector (2) Plug the speaker cable (3) in the headphone connector (4) Plug the microphone cable (5) in the microphone connector (6) on the computer.
  • Page 65 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV To connect a TV, proceed as follows: Shut down the notebook. Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) into the TV Out connector (2) (yellow) and the other end into the TV. Plug one end of the sound cable (3) into the headphone connector (4) and the other end into the TV. Plug the power cord of the TV (5) into an AC outlet.
  • Page 66 Connecting peripheral devices See the manual supplied with your peripheral for more information on installation and use. If you insert a DVD in your DVD-ROM drive to watch a video on your TV, the <Fn>+<F8> key combination might not activate the function to toggle between your LCD and TV.
  • Page 67: Connecting A Projector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD Projector. To connect a projector, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) identified by the Plug the audio cable (3) (not supplied) into the earphone connector (4) identified by the Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the connectors of the projector (5).
  • Page 68: Connecting External Speakers

    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 (1) into the earphone connector (2). Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the external speaker. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.
  • Page 69: Connecting An External Microphone

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external microphone Your VAIO notebook does not contain an internal microphone. If you need to use a sound input device, for example to chat on the Internet, you need to plug in an external microphone. To connect an external microphone, proceed as follows: Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone connector identified by the symbol.
  • Page 70 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mouse You can connect a USB device (e.g., mouse, keyboard…) to your computer. To connect a USB mouse, proceed as follows: You can find 2 USB connectors (1) at the back of your notebook. Plug the USB mouse cable (2) into the USB connector.
  • Page 71: Connecting A Printer

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer You can connect a Windows-compatible printer to your computer to print documents. Connecting a printer using the USB connector You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to your computer. To connect a printer using the USB connector, proceed as follows: Plug an optional USB printer cable (1) into the USB connector (2) identified by the computer and printer.
  • Page 72 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer using the printer connector To connect a printer using the printer connector, proceed as follows: Plug the printer cable (1) supplied with the printer into the printer connector (2) identified by the symbol. Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet.
  • Page 73: 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 74: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder

    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™.
  • Page 75: Connecting Two Vaio Notebooks

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting two VAIO notebooks You can connect your notebook to another VAIO notebook using an i.LINK™ cable (1) (not supplied). With Smart Connect* on your notebook, you can copy, edit or delete files on another VAIO notebook that has ®...
  • Page 76: Connecting To A Network (Lan)

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your computer 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. 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 your computer network jack.
  • Page 77: 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 A Getting Started brochure, where you find a brief description of the items in your box, some specifications of your notebook, and how to setup your notebook;...
  • Page 78: 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 VAIO-Link Response Centre: Before contacting VAIO-Link Response Centre, try to solve the problem by reading the User Guides and help files for the peripherals or software.
  • Page 79 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 80 Getting help Press the arrow keys to select Exit (save changes) and then press <Enter>. The message Save configuration changes and exit now? appears. Make sure that Yes is selected and then press <Enter>. My computer does not shut down It is recommended to shut down your computer using the Shut Down command on the Windows menu.
  • Page 81: About The Display

    Getting help My software program locks up or crashes Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. My touchpad interprets a single tap as a double-click Open the Mouse icon in the Control Panel and change the button assignments in the Mouse Properties dialog box.
  • Page 82 Getting help About CD/DVD-ROMs and diskettes My DVD-ROM drive tray does not open Make sure the computer is turned on. Press the eject button on the DVD-ROM drive. If the eject button does not work, you can open the tray by inserting a sharp, pointed object into the hole to the right of the eject button.
  • Page 83: About Sound

    Getting help When I double-click an application icon a message such as ’You must insert the application CD into your DVD- ROM drive’ appears and the software does not start. Some titles require specific files that are located on the application CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program again.
  • Page 84: About The Modem

    Getting help If you use external speakers, check that the speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up. If the speakers have a mute button, make sure it is off. If batteries power the speakers, check that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged. If you have connected an audio cable to the headphone connector, disconnect the cable.
  • Page 85: About Peripherals

    Getting help My modem cannot establish a connection The modem dialing mode may be incompatible with your telephone line. My modem connection is slow Many factors influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other modems). If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service Provider, check the following: Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from any line noise.
  • Page 86: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate

    To change the printer port mode, proceed as follows: Restart your computer. When you see the Sony-logo, press <F2>. You are in the BIOS. Go to the Advanced tab. Use the minus-sign on the numeric keyboard to change the printer port mode.
  • Page 87: About Power Management

    Getting help About power management The Power Management setting is not responding Your notebook’s operating system may become unstable if a lower power state, such as Hibernate is initiated, and then changed before the notebook completely enters the lower power state. To restore the notebook to its normal operating stability, proceed as follows: Close all open applications.
  • Page 88 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: You contact your dealer to install a new memory module.
  • Page 89: Adding Memory

    Precautions Adding memory In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your computer. You can increase the memory by installing optional memory modules. Be careful when adding memory. Mistakes on installation or removal of the memory module may cause a malfunction.
  • Page 90 Precautions - Excessive dust, - Mechanical vibration or shock, - Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, - Ambient temperature of more than +35°C or less than +5°C, - High humidity.
  • Page 91: Removing A Memory Module

    Precautions Removing a memory module To remove a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer. Disconnect all peripheral devices. Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack. Wait until the computer cools down. Turn your computer upside down. Open the cover on the bottom by unscrewing the screws (turn counter clockwise).
  • Page 92 Precautions Wait until the computer cools down. Turn your computer upside down. Open the cover on the bottom by unscrewing the screw (turn counter clockwise). Remove the memory module from its packaging. Install the memory module.
  • Page 93 Precautions Close the computer cover. Tighten the screws on the bottom of the computer. Turn on the computer.
  • Page 94: Other Precautions

    Precautions Other precautions On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. On the other hand, it may be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust. 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.
  • Page 95 Precautions The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. 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 96 Precautions Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts, Direct sunlight, Excessive dust, Moisture or rain, Mechanical vibration or shock, 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.
  • Page 97: On Using The Battery Pack

    Precautions On handling diskettes Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the diskette. Keep diskettes away from magnets. Keep diskettes away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. On handling CD/DVD-ROM discs Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc.
  • Page 98 Precautions Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat. Keep the battery pack dry. Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack. Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock. If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery.
  • Page 99 Precautions Do not use or store Memory Sticks™ in a location subject to: Extremely high temperatures, such as in a car parked in the sun, Direct sunlight, High humidity or near corrosive substances. Use the storage case supplied with the Memory Stick™.
  • Page 100 Specifications PCG-FX301 Specifications PCG-FX301 Model Number PCG-FX301 ® ® Operating system Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition Processor 800 MHz Mobile AMD Duron™ processor Hard disk drive 10 GB Standard RAM 128 MB SDRAM (in slot) Maximum RAM 256 MB LCD screen 14.1"...
  • Page 101 Specifications PCG-FX301 Model Number Internal modem Telecommunication capabilities Expansion capabilities Built-in capabilities Connection capabilities on notebook Supplied accessories Service Guarantee Power source Power management Battery Dimensions Width Height Depth Weight - with 1 battery and weight saver PCG-FX301 built-in modem V.90/K56flex (56kbps) data/fax modem Ethernet network, PSTN data connectivity two PCMCIA type I and type II or one type III Cards and Cardbus support stereo speakers, touchpad...
  • Page 102 Specifications PCG-FX301 Model Number Operating temperature Storage temperature Operating humidity Storage humidity ‡ See our special Guarantee extension conditions. Specifications are subject to change without notice. PCG-FX301 +5°C to +35°C (temperature gradient less than 10°C/hour) -20°C to +60°C (temperature gradient less than 10°C/hour) 20% to 80% (not condensed), provided that humidity is less than 65% at +35°C (hygrometer reading of less than 29°C) 10% to 90% (not condensed), provided that humidity is less than 20%...
  • Page 103 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 104 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 105 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 106 Glossary Term MAPI maximum RAM Motherboard MPEG Operating system Partition PC Card 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 107 Glossary Term PCMCIA Pixel Port replicator Processor Product recovery CD-ROM PS/2 PSTN Definition 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 108 Glossary Term Resolution RGB signal cable SDRAM SELV Standard RAM System recovery System recovery CD-ROM Definition The degree of sharpness and clarity of an image. Resolution is expressed in pixels. Frequent computer screen resolutions are 640 x 480 pixels (VGA resolution; appropriate for a 14-inch screen), 800 x 600 (appropriate for a 15-inch screen), 1024 by 768 (appropriate for a 17-inch screen), and 1280 by 1024.
  • Page 109 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.

This manual is also suitable for:

Pcg-962c

Table of Contents