Sony PCG-GRZ615G User Manual
Sony PCG-GRZ615G User Manual

Sony PCG-GRZ615G User Manual

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Sony Notebook User Guide
P C G - G R Z s e r i e s

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Summary of Contents for Sony PCG-GRZ615G

  • Page 1 Sony Notebook User Guide P C G - G R Z s e r i e s...
  • 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. ® 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

    Read this first 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 and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. Warnings General Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee.
  • 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 lightning 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

    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). Declaration of Conformity The European Union is targeting the free movement of goods for the internal market and to prevent technical barriers to trade. This effort has resulted in several EU Directives asking that manufacturers make their products comply with essential standards.
  • 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 the 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 and video CDs.
  • Page 9: Documentation Pack

    The online documentation contains the following references guides: The Hardware 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 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 delivered with your system.
  • Page 11 Welcome Your notebook and its accessories The following items are in the box: Main unit Product recovery CD-ROMs Documentation pack AC adapter Rechargeable battery pack If you find an extra phone plug in the box, see Using the correct phone plug Weight saver 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 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: 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 CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive...
  • Page 15: Locating Controls And Connectors

    Using your notebook Locating controls and connectors Right Ventilation slot Hard disk Battery bay Do not cover the ventilation slot when the computer is on. (page 17) (page 20)
  • Page 16 Using your notebook Left S400 i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) S400 port MagicGate Memory Stick™ slot PC Card slots Multipurpose bay (for weight saver or second battery with weight saver or removable CD- RW/DVD-ROM drive) (page 75) (page 41) (page 38) (page 20) (page 37) (page 34)
  • Page 17 Using your notebook Front LCD screen Speakers Keyboard Touchpad Left/right buttons Power indicator Battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 101) Hard disk drive indicator (page 66) Memory Stick™ indicator (page 28) Num Lock indicator (page 33) Caps Lock indicator (page 33) Scroll Lock indicator (page 32) Power button...
  • Page 18 Using your notebook Back 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. Ventilation slot (page 17) DC In (page 19) Printer connector (page 73) Monitor/VGA connector (page 60) AV Out connector...
  • Page 19 Using your notebook Bottom Tilt stands Multi-purpose bay release lever Memory module cover Port replicator connector cover (page 11) (page 20) (page 96) (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: Removing The Battery Pack

    Using your notebook If the battery level falls below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery. You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPanel utility. The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged any time.
  • 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 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 26 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 27: 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.
  • Page 28: 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 29: 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 30 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 31 Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the Windows Combinations + <F1> + <Tab> + <E> + <F> + <Ctrl> + <F> + <M> <Shift> + + <M> + <R> <Fn> + + <Insert> Functions Displays Help and Support Center. Switches the selected button on the taskbar.
  • Page 32 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 33 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Power Battery 1 Battery 2 MagicGate Memory Stick™ 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.
  • Page 34: 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 35: 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 36 Using your notebook Using the CD-RW function* Your notebook is equipped with a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive. 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 37 Using your notebook Using the DVD function To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROMs, you should follow these recommendations. You can play DVDs using the DVD-ROM drive and the WinDVD for VAIO software. See the help file on the WinDVD for VAIO software for details. Your computer should not be connected to the port replicator while playing DVD movies or using DVD applications.
  • Page 38: 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 39: Using Pc Cards

    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. Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.
  • Page 40 Using your notebook 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. Do not force a PC Card into the slot.
  • Page 41: 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 Safely Remove Hardware icon in the system tray.
  • Page 42: Using Memory Stick

    Mobile phones. There are currently two different types of 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.
  • Page 43 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 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: 32, 64 and 128 MB 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 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 Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
  • Page 49: Inserting A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Inserting a Memory Stick™ There are 2 ways you can insert a Memory Stick™ in your notebook: Using the Memory Stick™ slot; Using one of the PC Card slots. To do this, you need an optional PC Card adapter. You can only insert one Memory Stick™...
  • Page 50: Removing A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™ using the Memory Stick™ slot, 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 51: 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 52 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 53: 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 54: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your notebook To return to Normal mode, proceed as follows: Press any key. 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.
  • Page 55 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 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.
  • Page 56: 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 57: 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 PS/2 mouse/keyboard connector Serial port...
  • Page 58 Connecting peripheral devices Attaching your computer to the port replicator To attach your computer to the port replicator, proceed as follows: Disconnect all peripherals from the computer. Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In port (2) on the port replicator (3). Plug the power cord (4) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
  • Page 59 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 60: 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: Stop the connected peripherals. Close the cover and pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to disconnect the computer from the port replicator.
  • Page 61: 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 62 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) If necessary, plug one end of the display’s power cord (3) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
  • Page 63 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) Plug the speaker cable (3) into the headphone connector (4) Plug the microphone cable (5) into the microphone connector (6) on the computer.
  • Page 64: 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 65 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 headphone connector (2) (green) and the other end into the Audio Left and Audio Right connectors on your TV. Plug one end of the S-video cable (3) (optional) into the S-Video out connector (4) and the other end into the S-video connector on your TV.
  • Page 66: 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/VGA 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 67: 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 68: 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 symbol.
  • Page 69: 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 70: 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 71: Connecting A Usb Mouse

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a USB mouse To connect a USB mouse, proceed as follows: Choose the USB connector you prefer to use (at the back of the notebook (1) or the optional port replicator). Plug the USB mouse cable (2) into the USB connector. You can use your USB mouse (3).
  • 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 into the USB connector.
  • Page 73 Connecting peripheral devices Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Hold the disk (1) with the label side facing up. Gently push the disk into the drive (2) until it clicks into place. 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 74: Connecting A Printer

    Plug the printer power cord into an 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 75 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 76: 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 77: 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, simply copy images on the Memory Stick™, then insert it into the Memory Stick™...
  • Page 78 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. You can also print a document on a printer connected to another VAIO computer.
  • Page 79: 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. The default settings make your computer able to connect to the network. If the main unit is docked, you can only use the Ethernet network connector on the port replicator.
  • 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 A Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box 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 delivered with your system.
  • Page 82: Other Sources Of Information

    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 software. Other sources of information The online help files that accompany your software contain instructions on using the 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. Please, try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link. About the computer and software About the display About CD-ROMs and floppy disks About sound About the modem About peripherals...
  • Page 84: 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 85 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 86 Getting help My computer locks up 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. Select the application or process that is locking your system, and then click End Task. If the above method does not work or you do not know which application is locking your system, restart the computer.
  • Page 87 If you are using an external serial PS/2 mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the mouse connector of your optional port replicator. If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse, check that the appropriate driver and software are properly installed.
  • Page 88: About The Display

    Getting help 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. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer is on. Check that the battery packs are inserted properly and that they are charged.
  • Page 89 Getting help If the disc does not come out when you press the eject button, go to Windows Explorer or My Computer. Select the drive, click the right button of your mouse and select Eject or press the <Fn>+<E> keys to open the disk tray. 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 90 Getting help 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. In the Device Manager, check that the correct drivers are installed properly. To display the Device Manager, click Start, and select Control Panel.
  • Page 91 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 92: About Sound

    Getting help There may be condensation in the drive. Remove the disc and leave the drive open for approximately one hour. The optional PCGA-UFD5/A (USB) floppy disk drive is not recognised as drive A To set the UFD5/A to A, proceed as follows : Turn the system power on.
  • Page 93: 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.
  • Page 94: About Peripherals

    Use manual import/export in DVgate Motion if problems occur with third party cameras. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices.
  • Page 95: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate

    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 96: About Power Management

    Getting help Your DV device will need to have DV In/Out in order to be able to transfer your files to the DV device. 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.
  • Page 97: 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 98 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 99 Precautions Changing or adding a memory module To change or add 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.
  • Page 100 Precautions Remove the new memory module from its packaging. Install the memory module by sliding it into the memory module slot, as shown. Press the module into place until it clicks. Close the computer cover. Tighten the screw on the bottom of the notebook. Turn on the computer.
  • Page 101 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 102: 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 103 Precautions A residual image may appear on the screen if the same image is displayed for a lengthy period of time. The residual image disappears in a while. You can use a screensaver to prevent residual images. The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction. The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology.
  • Page 104 Precautions Do not drop the computer or place heavy objects on top of the computer. Do not place your computer in a location subject to: 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 105 Precautions As you may lose important data once your computer is damaged, you should back up your data regularly. Restore the original application programs from the Product Recovery CD-ROM. On handling floppy disks Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets.
  • Page 106 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 107 Precautions On using headphones 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 108 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 CD-ROM Definition...
  • Page 109 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 110 Glossary Term L2 cache memory Lithium-ion battery MAPI maximum RAM Motherboard Definition Cache memory is RAM-like memory that enables quick access to data that has already been read by the computer. L1 and L2 are levels of cache memory in a computer. A LAN (Local Area Network) is a group of computers connected together within a limited geographical area.
  • Page 111 Glossary Term MPEG Operating system Partition PC Card PCMCIA Pixel Definition MPEG or Moving Pictures Experts Group is a standard for audio-visual compression of video sequences. MPEG achieves high compression rates by storing only the changes from one frame to another. The decrease in data is generally imperceptible to the human eye. MPEG-1 was developed for digital storage of video and audio data on CD-ROM.
  • Page 112 Glossary Term Port replicator Processor Product recovery CD-ROM PS/2 PSTN Resolution RGB signal cable SDRAM Standard RAM Definition An additional device that you can connect to your notebook. The port replicator contains ports that enable you to connect additional peripherals (such as a printer or a monitor) to your VAIO.
  • Page 113 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.

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