Page 1 Sony notebook user guide P C G - G R X 5 1 6 M D...
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 licence agreement.
Page 3 All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. TAR ® NERGY ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E NERGY T AR The International E NERGY of computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that effectively reduce energy consumption.
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. ❑...
Page 6: Regulatory Information
Read this first Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive). This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in following areas: residential, commercial and light-industrial.
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.
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. ❑...
Page 9: Documentation Pack
❑ A Troubleshooting 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 on your computer 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 plug (country-specific) Phone cable Power cord...
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. ❑...
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 ❑...
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 78) Microphone connector (page 79) USB port (page 81) ✍ Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on.
Page 16 Using your notebook Left Memory Stick™ slot USB port i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) S400 port PC Card slots Multipurpose bay (for weight saver or second battery with weight saver or removable CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive) (page 49) (page 81) (page 87) (page 46) (page 67) (page 63) (page 24)
Page 17 Using your notebook Front Memory Stick™ indicator (page 34) Num Lock indicator (page 34) Caps Lock indicator (page 34) Scroll Lock indicator (page 34) Power indicator (page 34) Battery 1 indicator (page 34) Battery 2 indicator (page 34) Hard disk drive indicator (page 34) LCD screen (page 35)
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 89)
Page 19 Using your notebook Bottom Port replicator connector cover Memory module cover Multipurpose bay release lever (page 69) (page 108) (page 67)
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 multipurpose bay on the left side of the computer. Additional battery packs are available as a separate option.
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 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 26 Using your notebook Attach the weight saver (3) to the computer to stabilise the battery pack. 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 27 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 28 Using your notebook Removing the second battery pack To remove the second battery pack, proceed as follows: Slide the multipurpose 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 29: 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 30: 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 when your operating system is Windows follows: Click the Start button on the Windows Click Shut Down.
Page 31 Using your notebook To shut down your computer when your operating system is Windows Click the Start button. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears. Click Turn Off. Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator turns off. Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.
Page 32: 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 33 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 34 Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the <Windows> key Combinations + F1 + Tab + Ctrl + F Shift + <Fn> + + Insert Functions ® Professional Windows 2000 : Displays Windows 2000 Help. ® Professional Windows : Displays Windows Help and Support Centre. Switches the selected button on the taskbar.
Page 35 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 36 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 37: 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 38: Using The Jog Dial
Using your notebook Using the Jog Dial™ Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ (1). You can turn (2) and press (3) the Jog Dial™ to scroll the window, select software, adjust the internal speaker volume, and so on. Two operating system-specific applications are available to manage the Jog Dial™...
Page 39 Using your notebook Jog Dial™ Utility: Windows The Jog Dial™ window is always displayed on the screen. This window has two modes: Launcher mode and Guide mode. ® 2000 Professional The Jog Dial ™ window is in Launcher mode until you start an application or the Jog Dial ™...
Page 40 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 41 Using your notebook Jog Dial Navigator: Windows A Jog Dial Navigator folder was created on your notebook when you installed Windows is located in the Start, All Programs menu and contains the following items: Folder Browser Jog Dial Setting Window Switcher Starting Jog Dial Navigator To launch Jog Dial Navigator, proceed as follows: ❑...
Page 42 Using your notebook Using the Jog Dial Bar The Jog Dial bar is the initial state of Jog Dial Navigator and can be displayed on the desktop at all times. You can choose to display it on the taskbar or hide it altogether. Launcher button VAIO Setting Mode button...
Page 43 Using your notebook Switching modes When you are working in an application supporting the Jog Dial Navigator functions, you can use either Scroll mode or Application mode. By switching modes, you change the functions that can be performed using the Jog Dial™. ✍...
Page 44 Using your notebook Using the Jog Dial Launcher To start the Jog Dial Launcher, proceed as follows: ❑ In the Jog Dial Bar, click the arrow icon ❑ Hold down the <Ctrl> key and press the Jog Dial™. The Jog Dial Launcher bar appears. on the left.
Page 45 Using your notebook Rotate the Jog Dial™ wheel up and down to view the software applications and utilities on your computer. To launch an application, make sure it is selected and press the Jog Dial™. With some folders you will then get to a submenu.
Page 46 Using your notebook Changing Jog Dial Navigator settings You can change the operation and display of the Jog Dial Navigator with the options in Jog Dial Setting. display the Jog Dial Setting dialog box, proceed as follows: ❑ Click the Jog Dial Setting icon ❑...
Page 47: Using Pc Cards
Using your notebook Using PC Cards Your computer includes two PC Card slots. PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices. Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card, proceed as follows: Insert the PC Card into one of the PC Card slots with the front label facing up. Gently push the PC Card slot into the connector.
Page 48: Removing A Pc Card
Using your notebook Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.
Page 49 Using your notebook Eject the PC Card release button and then press it to eject the card. Gently press the card and pull it out. To remove a PC Card when your operating system is Windows Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the system tray. The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears.
Page 50: Using Memory Stick
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 51 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. ❑...
Page 52 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 53 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: ❑...
Page 54 MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organisation 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 55 (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 56 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 Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
Page 57: 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™ with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick™ slot. Carefully slide the Memory Stick™...
Page 58: 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. ✍...
Page 59: 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 60: Using The Correct Phone Plug
Using your notebook Using the correct phone plug If there are two phone plugs in the box, make sure you use the correct one for the country you are in, as follows: UK: The connector can be identified by its cuboid shape and flat pins.
Page 61: 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 62 Using your notebook Alternatively, Click Start and then Turn Off Computer. In the Turn off computer screen, press Standby. The computer enters Standby mode. To return to Normal mode, proceed as follows: Press any key. 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.
Page 63 Using your notebook ✍ When the computer is in Hibernate mode, you cannot insert a disc. Hibernate mode requires more time than Standby mode to be activated. It takes more time to return to normal mode from Hibernate mode than from Standby mode. Hibernate mode uses less power than Standby mode.
Page 64: 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 65 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 66 Using your notebook ❑ Region codes indicators are labelled 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 labelled on your DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player.
Page 67 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. ❑...
Page 68: Using The Weight Saver
Using your notebook Using the weight saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty, and secures the second battery or the CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive when they are installed in the multipurpose bay. To attach the weight saver, proceed as follows: If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device.
Page 69: 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 70: 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 71: 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 72: 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 73: 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 74 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 75 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 76: 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 77 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 78: Connecting A Projector
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can connect a projector (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 79: 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 80: 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 ✍...
Page 81: 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 82: Connecting A Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Device
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 83 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 84 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 85 Connecting peripheral devices Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: When you have finished using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator (1) turns off and then press the eject button (2) to remove the disk. ✍...
Page 86: Connecting A Printer
AC outlet. ✍ 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 87 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 88: 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 89: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder
On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labelled 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 90: Connecting To A Network (Lan)
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting two VAIO notebooks You can copy, edit or delete files on another VAIO computer to your computer with an optional i.LINK™ cable. If the second computer has the Windows the second computer has a different operating system (e.g., Windows application such as Smart Connect.
Page 91: 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: ❑...
Page 92 ❑ 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 on your computer is a short description of the features of the software pre- installed on your system.
Page 93: 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 ❑...
Page 94: 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 ❑ About the display ❑...
Page 95: About The Computer And Software
If the floppy disk drive is empty, proceed as follows to initialise 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 96 Getting help Press Enter. Press the arrow keys to select System Time. Set the time (hour:minute:second). Press Enter. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu. Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press <Enter>. The message Load default configuration now? appears.
Page 97 Getting help My computer does not shut down (Windows It is recommended that you shut down your computer using the Turn Off command on the Windows menu. Using other methods, including those listed here, may result in loss of unsaved data. If the Turn Off command does not work properly, proceed as follows: ❑...
Page 98 Getting help My computer locks up (Windows ❑ If you suspect one application is locking your system, you can try to stop it. To do this, press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously. If you have not changed the default settings, you will enter the Task Manager.
Page 99: About The Display
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 ❑...
Page 100: About Cd-Roms And Floppy Disks
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 disc does not come out when you press the eject button, go to Windows Explorer or My Computer.
Page 101 Getting help ❑ If you hear sound but cannot see a picture, your computer's video resolution may be set too high. Change the resolution in the Windows ❑ If you see a picture but cannot hear any sound, check all of the following: ❑...
Page 102 Getting help Why does my CD-RW drive not record at the highest speed? You must use 8x CD-R or 4x CD-RW media or higher to achieve optimum performance. If you want to use other media and are having difficulty formatting non-4x CD-RW discs, change the writing speed from 4x to a lower setting.
Page 103 Getting help The disc tray ejects even when it has been locked into place ❑ Ensure that the disc is placed with the label side facing up. ❑ The disc may be scratched. Place another disc to see if that is the reason. ❑...
Page 104: About Sound
Getting help About sound My speakers are not producing sound ❑ The built-in speakers may be turned off. Press <Fn>+<F3> to turn on the speakers. ❑ The speaker volume may be turned to the minimum. Press <Fn>+<F4>, and then press the volume.
Page 105: About The Modem
Getting help About the modem My internal modem does not work ❑ Check that the phone line is plugged into your computer. ❑ Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone.
Page 106: About Peripherals
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. I cannot print ❑...
Page 107: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate
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. ❑...
Page 108: About I.link™ Devices
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 109: 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: ❑...
Page 110 Precautions ❑ Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) can damage memory modules and other components. Install the memory module only at an ESD workstation. If such a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area, and do not handle materials that produce or hold static electricity (cellophane wrappers, for example). Ground yourself by maintaining contact with an unpainted metal portion of the chassis while performing the procedure.
Page 111 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 112 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 113 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 window appears. In the About this Computer tab you can view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory...
Page 114: 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 115 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 116 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, ❑...
Page 117 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. ❑...
Page 118 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 119 Precautions On using earphones ❑ Road safety – Do not use headphones while driving, cycling, or operating any motorised 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 120 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 121 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 122 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 123 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 124 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 125 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 126 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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