Sony Vaio PCG-GRX416SP User Manual
Sony Vaio PCG-GRX416SP User Manual

Sony Vaio PCG-GRX416SP User Manual

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P C G - G R X 4 1 6 S P

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Summary of Contents for Sony Vaio PCG-GRX416SP

  • Page 1 Sony notebook user guide P C G - G R X 4 1 6 S P...
  • Page 2: Read This First

    Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.
  • Page 3 All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. ® NERGY ® ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. NERGY NERGY ® The International E Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use NERGY of computers and their office equipment.
  • Page 4: Safety Information

    Owner's record The serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number and the model number in the spaces provided here. Refer to the model number and serial number if you call VAIO-Link.
  • Page 5 Read this first TV sets Speakers Magnets Magnetic bracelets. Audio/video Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation. Connectivity Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations.
  • Page 6: Regulatory Information

    The optical disc 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. Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated.
  • 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 and video CDs.
  • Page 9: Documentation Pack

    A Customer Guide, where you will find all the basic information you need to start using your notebook, as well as troubleshooting and VAIO-Link information; Your Sony Guarantee conditions; A Safety Regulations flyer; A Modem Regulations flyer.
  • Page 10 Welcome Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications. About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system. Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart Capture.
  • Page 11 Welcome Your notebook and its accessories The following hardware items* are in the box: Main unit Product recovery CD-ROMs Documentation pack AC adapter Rechargeable battery pack * See the Specifications online document. Weight saver Phone cable Power cord CD-RW/DVD-ROM...
  • 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 eyestrain 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: Table Of Contents

    Using your notebook Using your notebook This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices. Locating controls and connectors Connecting a power source Starting your notebook Shutting down your notebook Using the keyboard Using the touchpad Using the Jog Dial™...
  • Page 15: Locating Controls And Connectors

    Using your notebook Locating controls and connectors Right Battery bay (page 20) Hard disk drive Ventilation slot Headphone connector (page 67) Microphone connector (page 68) USB port (page 70) Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
  • Page 16 Using your notebook Left Memory Stick™ slot (page 41) USB port (page 70) i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) S400 port (page 76) PC Card slots (page 38) Multi-purpose bay (for weight (page 56) saver or second battery with (page 52) weight saver or removable (page 23) CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive)
  • Page 17 Using your notebook Front Memory Stick™ indicator (page 32) Num Lock indicator (page 32) Caps Lock indicator (page 32) Scroll Lock indicator (page 32) Power indicator (page 32) Battery 1 indicator (page 32) Battery 2 indicator (page 32) Hard disk drive indicator (page 32) LCD screen (page 33)
  • Page 18 Using your notebook Back Ventilation slot DC In Ethernet connector (network) Monitor/VGA connector There is a ventilation slot located on the left side of the back panel. Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on. Printer connector (page 19) USB port (page 78)
  • Page 19 Using your notebook Bottom Port replicator connector cover Memory module cover Multi-purpose bay release lever (page 58) (page 95) (page 56)
  • Page 20: 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 21: 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 left 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 22 Using your notebook Charging the battery pack To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows: Connect the AC adapter to the computer. Insert the battery pack. The computer automatically charges the battery (1) (the battery indicator (2) light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges).
  • Page 23 Using your notebook 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 24 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 25 Using your notebook Inserting the second battery pack To insert a second battery pack, proceed as follows: If the weight saver or the optical disc drive is in the multi-purpose bay (1), remove it. Insert the battery pack (2) into the multi-purpose bay. The battery 2-indicator light turns 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 85% charged.
  • Page 27 Using your notebook Removing the second battery pack To remove the second battery pack, proceed as follows: Slide the multi-purpose bay release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the arrow. Remove the weight saver. Pull out the battery pack. Reinsert 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. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears.
  • Page 30: 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.
  • Page 31 Using your notebook Keys Escape key (1) Function keys (2) 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 <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 Combinations and functions with the <Windows> key Combinations + F1 + Tab + Ctrl + F Shift + <Fn> + + Insert Functions Displays Help and Support Center. Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays My Computer. Displays the Search Results window to find a file or folder.
  • Page 33 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Power Battery 1 Battery 2 Memory Stick™ Light hard disk Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock Functions Power on: lights green. Standby mode: flashes umber. Hibernate mode: turns off. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the right side of the computer. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the left side of the computer.
  • Page 34 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)* <Fn>...
  • Page 35: 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.
  • Page 36: Using The Jog Dial

    Using your notebook Using the Jog Dial™ Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ with Back button on your computer, near the touchpad. You can turn and/or press the Jog Dial™ to scroll the window, select software, adjust the internal speaker volume, etc.
  • Page 37 Using your notebook The Jog Dial™ window is always displayed on the screen. This window has two modes: Launcher mode and Guide mode. The Jog Dial ™ window is in Launcher mode until you start an application or the Jog Dial ™ window becomes active. When an arrow appears next to an item in the Jog Dial ™...
  • Page 38 Use the Back button on the right of the Jog Dial™ to go back to the previous state of the Jog Dial ™ window. Software supporting the Jog Dial™ If the Sony software supporting the Jog Dial™ is active, you can use the Jog Dial™ functions allocated to each software. Software not supporting the Jog Dial™...
  • Page 39: Using Pc Cards

    The PC Card slots can accommodate (at the same time) two Types I, two Types II or one Type III PC Card. These slots are compatible with Card Bus ports. Use the lower slot for PC Type III cards. Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices.
  • Page 40: Removing A Pc Card

    Using your notebook Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer. If an “!” mark appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it. You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.
  • Page 41 Using your notebook Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card pops out. Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot. If you unplug the PC Card from the computer when it is still turned on, your system might crash and you might lose data that you did not save before. Before you remove the PC Card, click the PC Card icon in the taskbar and close the card.
  • Page 42: Using Memory Stick

    The generic Memory Stick™, coloured blue. The MagicGate Memory Stick™, coloured white. You can purchase Memory Sticks™ from the Sony Style website (http://www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer. Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The Memory Stick™...
  • Page 43 Using your notebook The main advantages of the Memory Stick™ are its: Compactness: with dimensions of just 21.5 mm (W) x 2.8 mm (H) x 50 mm (D), compatible products can also be small, lightweight and attractive in their design. Capacity: Its data capacity far exceeds that of a floppy disk.
  • Page 44 Using your notebook Generic Memory Stick™ The original Memory Stick™, blue in colour, can be used to record image data taken with digital still cameras, etc. or data from the PC. With it, you can record, play back and transfer various kinds of data at any given time.
  • Page 45 Using your notebook MagicGate Memory Stick™ The MagicGate Memory Stick™, white in colour, records PC and image data just like its blue counterpart; the difference is it uses the MagicGate copyright protection technology. With this type of Memory Stick™, also called the MG Memory Stick™, you can enjoy the following features: 32MB, 64MB and 128MB capacity versions.
  • Page 46 MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organization working to draw up industry standard specifications in order to protect copyrights of digital music). logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media. MagicGate MagicGate refers to the copyright protection technology used by the MagicGate Memory Stick™...
  • Page 47 (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 48: Inserting A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook 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 Inserting a Memory Stick™ To insert a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Once you have stored your data from your digital device, insert the Memory Stick™ with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick™...
  • Page 49: Removing A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™ proceed as follows: Check that the access light is off. Push the Memory Stick™ in towards the notebook. The Memory Stick™ ejects. Pull the Memory Stick™ out of the slot. Always remove the Memory Stick™...
  • Page 50: 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, as well as to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link. To connect a phone line, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the phone line jack on the computer.
  • Page 51: 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 52: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your notebook Using Hibernate mode The state of the system is saved on the hard disk and power is turned off. The power indicator light is off in this mode. To activate Hibernate mode, proceed as follows: Press <Fn>+<F12>. The Hibernating screen appears and the notebooks enters Hibernate mode.
  • Page 53: Using The Cd-Rw/Dvd-Rom Drive

    Using your notebook Using the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive Your computer is equipped with a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive. To insert a disc, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Press the eject button (1) to open the drive. The tray slides out. Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up until the disc clicks into place. Close the tray by pushing it gently.
  • Page 54 Using your notebook 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 55 Using your notebook Region codes indicators are labeled on the DVD discs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the disc. Unless a '2' (Europe belongs to region '2') or 'all' (this means that you can play this DVD everywhere in the world) is labeled on your DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player.
  • Page 56 Using your notebook Using the CD-RW function To burn CDs, you can use CD-RW and CD-R discs: The CD-RW (CD-ReWritable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write, erase and rewrite a program or other data. The CD-R (CD-Recordable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write a program or other data, but once only.
  • Page 57: Using The Weight Saver

    Using your notebook Using the weight saver The weight saver protects the multi-purpose bay when it is empty, and secures the second battery or the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive when they are installed in the multi-purpose bay. To attach the weight saver, proceed as follows: If another device is in the multi-purpose bay, remove the device.
  • Page 58: Connecting Peripheral Devices

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting or using any of these peripherals. Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals. Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables. Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.
  • Page 59: Connecting A Port Replicator

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a port replicator Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator. Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer or an external display. DC In port USB port Serial port Right line-in and left line-in connectors...
  • Page 60: Attaching Your Computer To The Port Replicator

    When attaching your computer to the port replicator, do not attempt to insert or remove the battery pack. Lifting and turning the computer with the attached port replicator may cause a temporary loss of power. Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook or the optional Sony adapter.
  • Page 61: Disconnecting Your Computer From The Port Replicator

    Connecting peripheral devices Disconnecting your computer from the port replicator To disconnect your computer from the port replicator, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals. Pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to disconnect the computer from the port replicator. Lift the notebook away from the port replicator.
  • 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 notebook 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 You can connect a computer display (monitor) either directly to your notebook or via the (optional) port replicator. To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) (not supplied) into the monitor/VGA connector (2) port replicator.
  • 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) into the monitor/VGA connector (2) replicator.
  • Page 65: Connecting A Tv

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV You can connect a TV to the notebook or to the optional port replicator. To connect a TV to the notebook, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) (optional) into the AV Out connector (2) (yellow) and the other end into the TV.
  • Page 66 Connecting peripheral devices To connect a TV to the port replicator, proceed as follows: Attach the port replicator to your notebook. Plug one end of the audio/video cable (1) (optional) into the right and left line-out and the Video out connector (2) and the other end into the Audio Left and Audio Right connectors and the Video connector on your TV.
  • Page 67: Connecting A Projector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can connect a project (such as the Sony LCD projector) directly to your notebook or via the port replicator. To connect a projector, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor/...
  • 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 headphone 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 (2) identified by the Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.
  • Page 70: Connecting An External Mouse Or Keyboard

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external mouse or keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using the PS/2 mouse/ keyboard connector. There is only one PS/2 connector, so you can only connect one external device at the same time.
  • Page 71 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device You can connect a USB device (for example, a mouse, floppy disk drive, keyboard, printer) to your computer. Before connecting or disconnecting a USB peripheral, you do not need to shut down the computer. You may need to install software (device drivers) supplied with your USB device before using the USB device.
  • Page 72 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a USB floppy disk drive As an optional extra, you can purchase a USB floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer. To connect a USB floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: Choose the USB connector you prefer to use. Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable (1) into the USB connector (2).
  • Page 73 Connecting peripheral devices To remove a USB floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: If your computer is on, wait until the floppy drive LED indicator turns off and then unplug the USB cable. If the floppy disk drive is not removed properly, your system may crash and you may lose any unsaved data.
  • Page 74: Connecting A Printer

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer You can connect a Windows Connecting a printer using the USB connector You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows To connect a printer using the USB connector, proceed as follows: Plug an optional USB printer cable into one of the USB connectors on your notebook or your optional port replicator.
  • Page 75 Connecting peripheral devices Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer settings in the Sony Notebook Setup software. Turn off your computer and the printer, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the printer.
  • Page 76 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. Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer settings in the Sony Notebook Setup software.
  • Page 77 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 78: 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™. To do so,...
  • Page 79: Connecting To A Network (Lan)

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your computer or port replicator 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. The default settings make your computer able to connect to the network.
  • Page 80: 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 The printed part of your documentation contains: A Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box, some specifications of your notebook, and how to setup your notebook;...
  • Page 81 Precautions provides facts and advice about using your notebook. Glossary refers to terms used in this manual. Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications. About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system.
  • Page 82: 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 83: Troubleshooting

    Getting help Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions. Pleas try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link. About the computer and software My computer does not start Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on.
  • Page 84 Getting help 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). Press Enter. Press the arrow keys to select System Time.
  • Page 85 Getting help If this does not work, press the power button and hold it for at least four seconds. This turns off the power. Unplug the computer from the AC adapter and remove the battery pack from your computer. My computer locks up If you suspect one application is locking your system, you can try to stop it.
  • Page 86 Getting help If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse, check that the appropriate driver and software are properly installed. Check that the USB mouse is plugged into the USB connector. About the display My LCD does not display anything Check that the computer and display are both plugged into a power source and that they are turned on.
  • Page 87 Getting help About CD-ROMs and floppy disks My CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive tray does not open Make sure the computer is turned on. Press the eject button on the disc 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 88 Getting help Make sure the mute setting is off on your DVD player. Check the master volume setting of the Volume Control. If you have connected speakers externally, check the volume settings of your computer speakers and check the connections between your speakers and the computer.
  • Page 89 Getting help Click OK. The VAIO notebook has a maximum recording rate of 8x for CD-R and 4x for CD-RW discs. When I double-click an application icon a message such as 'You must insert the application CD into your CD-ROM drive' appears and the software does not start. Some titles require specific files that are located on the application CD-ROM.
  • Page 90 Getting help The optional PCGA-UFD5 (USB) floppy disk drive is not recognized as drive A To set the UFD5 to A, proceed as follows : Turn the system power on. Connect the UFD5. Select Control Panel from the Start menu. Double-click System.
  • Page 91 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 or a set of headphones to the headphone connector, disconnect the cable.
  • Page 92 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 93 Make sure the PC Card is compatible with your version of Windows Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. If you are using two PC Cards, use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable the devices you are not currently using.
  • Page 94 Getting help Check the cable to see if you do not have missing of bend pins. Try a printer self test (if available) to see if the printer itself is still functioning properly. For more information, please consult the manual supplied with your printer. Some printers have a specific installation procedure.
  • Page 95 Getting help About i.LINK™ devices I cannot establish an i.LINK™ connection between two VAIO computers Disconnect then reconnect the i.LINK™ cable. If you still have no connection after waiting for a while, restart both computers. If either computer has just returned from a power saving mode, the connection may be affected. In this case, make sure you perform a full restart before connecting them.
  • Page 96: Adding And Removing Memory

    Precautions Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Your notebook and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: You contact your dealer to install a new memory module.
  • Page 97 Precautions Disconnect the system from its power source and from any telecommunication links, networks, or modems before you open the system. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or equipment damage. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can damage memory modules and other components. Install the memory module only at an ESD workstation.
  • Page 98 Precautions Removing a memory module To remove a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer and 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 screw (turn counter clockwise).
  • Page 99 Precautions Adding a memory module To install a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer and disconnect all peripheral devices. Unplug the computer and remove the battery packs. Wait until the computer cools down. Turn your computer upside down. Open the cover on the bottom by unscrewing the screw (turn counter clockwise).
  • Page 100 To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Go to Sony Notebook Setup via the Start menu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. In the About this Computer tab you can view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory...
  • Page 101: 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 102 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 103 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 35°C or less than 10°C, High humidity. Do not place electronic equipment near your computer.
  • Page 104 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-ROMs Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc.
  • Page 105 Precautions On using the battery pack Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 60°C, such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight. Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery efficiency at low temperatures.
  • Page 106 Precautions On using earphones Road safety – Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorized vehicle. It may create a traffic hazard and is illegal in some areas. It can also be potentially dangerous to play loud music while walking, especially at pedestrian crossings.
  • Page 107 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 108 Glossary Term CD-ROM CD-RW DC In Docking station Driver DVD-ROM Ethernet EULA 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 109 MAPI Definition 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 110 Glossary Term maximum RAM Motherboard MPEG Operating system Partition PC Card Definition The maximum amount of RAM that your computer can contain. Once this amount is reached, you can no longer add additional RAM to your computer. The motherboard is the main circuit board inside your computer. It holds the CPU, the BIOS, the memory and so on.
  • Page 111 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 112 Glossary Term Resolution RGB signal cable SDRAM 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), 1,024 by 768 (appropriate for a 17-inch screen), and 1,280 by 1,024.
  • Page 113 Term VAIO Definition 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. WAN (Wide Area Network) is a computer network connected together and covering a relatively large geographical area.

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