Sony VAIO PCG-NV209 User Manual
Sony VAIO PCG-NV209 User Manual

Sony VAIO PCG-NV209 User Manual

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Sony notebook user guide
P C G - N V 2 0 9 / P C G - N V 3 0 9

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Summary of Contents for Sony VAIO PCG-NV209

  • Page 1 Sony notebook user guide P C G - N V 2 0 9 / P C G - N V 3 0 9...
  • 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 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 the European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunication 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 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. ❑...
  • Page 9: Documentation Pack

    ❑ A Modem Regulations leaflet. Online documentation The Sony Notebook User Guide: ❑ Using your 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 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 Phone cable * See the Specifications online document. Power cord Removable floppy disk drive Ten-Key (numeric keypad) Phone plug (country-specific)
  • 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 CD-RW/DVD-ROM station Multipurpose bay (for floppy disk drive, Net MD Bay unit*, Compact Woofer Bay unit (subwoofer)* or Ten-Key Bay unit**) Battery bay * With the introduction of Net MD™ High Speed Digital Music Recorders, it is easier than ever for digital music enthusiasts to take their digital music with them…...
  • Page 16 Using your notebook Left AV Out connector connector Ethernet connector (network) Modem connector i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) S400 port (page 70) PC Card slot (page 79) Microphone connector (page 79) Headphone connector (page 77) Volume control (page 42) (page 73) (page 72)
  • Page 17 Using your notebook Front ✍ Next to the Help button, you will find a deactivated switch. Please note that there is no functional purpose to this switch on your model. 1 Power indicator (page 29) 2 Battery indicator (page 29) 3 Hard disk drive indicator (page 29) 4 Memory Stick™...
  • Page 18 Using your notebook Back DC In (page 19) 3x USB ports (page 74) Serial port ✍ 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 75) Monitor / VGA connector...
  • Page 19 Using your notebook Bottom Hard reset hole Memory module cover Multipurpose bay release lever Tilt stands + tilt stands release buttons (page 97) (page 61) (page 63) (page 65) (page 65) (page 11)
  • 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 a battery as a source of power. 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. Inserting the battery pack To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows: Open the cover of the battery bay.
  • 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 Removing the battery pack To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. Open the cover of the battery bay. Pull out the battery pack. Close the cover of the battery bay. ✍ You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer is in Standby mode.
  • Page 24: 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 25: Shutting Down Your Notebook

    Using your notebook If necessary, press <Fn>+<F5> to adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To increase the brightness, hold down the <Fn> key and press <F5> repeatedly. To decrease the brightness, hold down the <Fn> and <Shift> keys and press <F5> repeatedly. You can see the brightness changing immediately on the screen.
  • Page 26 Using your notebook Press <Alt>+<F4> and select Turn Off from the screen that appears. If this does not work, you can press the power button for more than four seconds. This will shut down the computer. This operation may result in loss of data.
  • Page 27: 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 28 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 29 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 30 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Power Battery 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.
  • Page 31 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)* Functions Puts the system into Standby mode, a power management state. To return the system to the active state, press any key.
  • Page 32 Using your notebook <Fn> + (ESC) and <Fn> + (F12): Standby * This function can only be used by the first user to log in. It will not work if you have switched to another user account. Puts the system into Standby mode, a power management state. To return the system to the active state, press any key.
  • Page 33: Using The Touchpad

    Using your notebook Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object. Click Press the left button (3) once.
  • Page 34: Using Jog Dial

    Using your notebook Using Jog Dial™ Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ (1) with Back button on your computer, near the touchpad. You can turn (2) and/or press (3) the Jog Dial™ to scroll the window, select software, adjust the internal speaker volume, etc.
  • Page 35 Using your notebook To launch the Jog Dial Navigator software, click Start, All Programs, then Jog Dial Navigator, and choose the feature you want. The Jog Dial Navigator software includes the following features: Dial Up Tool Folder Browser Jog Dial Setting VAIO Setting Window Switcher From here you can dial up to a network and the Internet.
  • Page 36 Using your notebook Starting Jog Dial Navigator To launch Jog Dial Navigator, proceed as follows: ❑ Press the Jog Dial™. ❑ Double-click the Jog Dial Navigator icon The Jog Dial Indicator window appears at the top of the screen. ✍ Right-clicking the Jog Dial Navigator icon in the taskbar will give you additional options.
  • Page 37 Using your notebook LCD area Close button Jog Dial Navigator icon 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 38 Using your notebook Application mode To switch from Scroll mode to Application mode, proceed as follows: ❑ Press the Jog Dial™. ❑ Click APPS in the Indicator window. This mode is used for operations other than scrolling. Depending on the application you are working in, you will see either the Jog Dial Navigator or the Jog Dial Guide displayed on the right-hand side.
  • Page 39 Using your notebook Software not supporting Jog Dial Navigator Even if the software in use does not support the Jog Dial Navigator functions, you can scroll the window or adjust the window size. Action Turn the Jog Dial™ Press the Jog Dial™ Press <Alt>...
  • Page 40 Using your notebook Using the Jog Dial Launcher To start the Jog Dial Launcher, proceed as follows: ❑ In the Indicator window, click the arrow icon on the left ❑ Click the Jog Dial Navigator symbol on the right The Jog Dial Launcher window appears. Rotate the Jog Dial™...
  • Page 41: Changing Jog Dial Navigator Settings

    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. To display the Jog Dial Setting dialog box, proceed as follows: ❑ Right-click the Indicator window or the Jog Dial Navigator icon Setting from the menu.
  • Page 42 Using your notebook This sets the sound effects for the Jog Dial window display and Jog Dial functions. Display/Sound tab Enabling moving animation: This enables or disables the animation effects during Jog Dial window display. Transparency: You can drag the slider left or right to set the transparency of the Jog Dial window. Sound when pressing Jog Dial: This specifies the sound file that is played when the Jog Dial is pressed.
  • Page 43: 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 44: Removing A Pc Card

    Using your notebook 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. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a PC Card, check that you are inserting the PC Card in the correct direction.
  • Page 45 Using your notebook ✍ 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. Close any applications that use the PC Card before removing the card.
  • Page 46: 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 47 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 48 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 49 MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organization working to draw up industry standard specifications in order to protect copyrights of digital music). logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media.
  • Page 50 Using your notebook MagicGate MagicGate refers to the copyright protection technology used by the MagicGate Memory Stick™ and other MagicGate Memory Stick™ compatible devices. The Memory Stick™ Walkman and MagicGate Memory Stick™ work together to check the data and ensure it complies with copyright protection.
  • Page 51 Using your notebook 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 52 Using your notebook ❑ 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 53: 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 54: 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 55 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 56: 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 57: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your notebook To return to Normal mode, press any key. ✍ When the computer is in Standby mode, you cannot insert a disc. Standby requires less time than Hibernate. Standby uses more power than Hibernate. 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 58: 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. 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 59 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 60 Using your notebook ❑ Do not try to change the region code settings of the DVD-ROM drive. Any difficulties caused by changing the region code settings of DVD-ROM drive are out of warranty. ❑ When a DVD video disc is inserted in the DVD-ROM drive, you cannot toggle between LCD and TV by pressing <Fn>+<F8>.
  • Page 61 Using your notebook ❑ Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors. ❑ Do not put your VAIO notebook into a power saving mode while using the pre-installed software. ❑...
  • Page 62: Using The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using your notebook Using the floppy disk drive The computer is equipped with an internal removable floppy disk drive. Inserting the floppy disk drive To insert the floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. If the weight saver is in the multipurpose bay (1), remove the device.
  • Page 63: Removing The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using your notebook 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 64: Using The Net Md Bay Unit (Optional Accessory)

    Using your notebook Re-inserting the floppy disk drive To re-insert the floppy disk drive, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. Insert the floppy disk drive into the multipurpose bay with the metallic part up. Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the release lever locks into place.
  • Page 65 Using your notebook To remove the Net MD MiniDisc, proceed as follows: Slide the multipurpose bay release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of the arrow. Remove the Net MD MiniDisc. Warning: The recording and playback of copyright material may be unlawful if done without the permission of the copyright holders.
  • Page 66: Using The Ten-Key Bay Unit

    Using your notebook Using the Ten-Key Bay unit The Ten-Key bay unit is designed to work as an external numeric keypad. The external numeric keypad functions like the numeric keypad on the built-in keyboard. It is ideal for anyone using spreadsheet, accounting or financial applications.
  • Page 67: 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 68: 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 69 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a computer display You can connect a computer display (monitor) directly to your notebook. 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 70 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 Plug the speaker cable (3) into the headphone connector (4) Plug the microphone cable (5) into the microphone connector on the computer.
  • Page 71: Connecting A Tv

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV You can connect a TV to your notebook. To connect a TV to the notebook, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the audio/video out cable (1) (optional) into the AV Out connector (2) (yellow) and the other end into the TV.
  • Page 72: Connecting A Projector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can connect a project (such as the Sony LCD projector) directly to your notebook. 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 headphone connector (4) identified by the Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the connectors of the projector (5).
  • Page 73: 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 74: Connecting An External Microphone

    Connecting peripheral devices ✍ Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use. Do not place diskettes on the speakers; their magnetic field may damage the data on the diskettes. Do not connect an external speaker to the AV Out connector but to the headphone connector. It will not damage the speaker, the sound will only come out from one speaker.
  • Page 75 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 76: 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.
  • Page 77 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer using the printer connector The notebook is equipped with a printer connector. To connect a printer using the printer connector, proceed as follows: Plug the printer cable (1) supplied with the printer into the printer connector (2) identified by the symbol.
  • Page 78 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 79: 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 80: Connecting Two Vaio Notebooks

    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 81: 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 82 ❑ 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 83: 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 84: 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 ❑...
  • Page 85: About The Computer And Software

    If the floppy disk drive is empty, proceed as follows to initialize the BIOS: Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn on the computer and press <F2> when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Set the date (month/day/year).
  • Page 86 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 87 One of the buttons is assigned to the double-click action. My mouse does not work ❑ 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.
  • 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. ❑...
  • Page 89 Getting help ❑ 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. I cannot play a CD-ROM ❑ After inserting the CD, wait for a few seconds for the system to detect it before you try to access it. ❑...
  • Page 90 Getting help ❑ In the Device Manager, check that the correct drivers are installed properly. To display the Device Manager, click Start, and select Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. On the Hardware tab, click the Device Manager button. ❑ A dirty or damaged disc may cause the computer to 'hang' while it tries to read the disc.
  • Page 91 Getting help The reading speed of CD-RWs is very slow Generally, the reading speed of a CD-RW is slower than that of a CD-ROM or CD-R. The reading speed can also vary depending on the type of format. 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.
  • Page 92: 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> and hold it down and press <F4> repeatedly to increase the volume.
  • Page 93: About Peripherals

    Getting help ❑ In the Phone and Modem Options dialog box (Control Panel / Phone and Modem Options), check that your modem is listed on the Modems tab, and that the location information is correct on the Dialing Rules tab. ❑...
  • Page 94 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. My PC Card is not working ❑...
  • Page 95: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate

    Getting help About digital video captures and DVgate While I am recording images to a digital video device using DVgate, my system displays the message 'Recording to DV device failed. Check the power and cable connections to the DV device and try the operation again...' ❑...
  • Page 96: 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 97 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 98: Adding And Removing Memory

    Precautions Adding and removing memory* In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your notebook. 256 MB of memory is preinstalled in one of the two available memory module bays (256 MB x 1). When only 256 MB of memory is preinstalled, you can add PCGE-MMDDR128 or PCGE-MMDDR256 MB memory modules to increase memory up to 1 GB.
  • Page 99 Precautions - Mechanical vibration or shock, - Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, - Ambient temperature of more than +35°C or less than +5°C, - High humidity. Be careful when adding memory. Mistakes on installation or removal of the memory module may cause a malfunction. * Depending on the configuration of your notebook, the number of slots can vary.
  • Page 100 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 101 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 102: Other Precautions

    Precautions Viewing the amount of memory To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Go to VAIO System Information via the Start menu. The VAIO System Information window appears. In the System Information area you can view the amount of system memory. If the additional memory does not appear, repeat the whole procedure and restart the notebook.
  • Page 103 Precautions On handling the LCD screen ❑ Do not leave the LCD facing the sun as it can damage the LCD. Be careful when using the computer near a window. ❑ Do not scratch the LCD or exert pressure on it. This could cause malfunction. ❑...
  • Page 104 Precautions On handling your notebook ❑ Clean with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the finish of your computer.
  • Page 105 Precautions ❑ Do not use cut or damaged connection cables. ❑ Your computer cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with a private branch exchange (PBX). ❑ If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one, moisture may condense inside your computer.
  • Page 106 Precautions ❑ Proper care of the disc is essential to its continuous reliability. Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinning agents, commercially available cleaners or anti-static spray, as they may cause damage to the disc. ❑ For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the centre out.
  • Page 107 Precautions ❑ You do not need to discharge the battery before recharging. ❑ If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time, recharge the battery. 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.
  • 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 Definition The <F1>...
  • Page 109 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 110 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 111 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 112 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 113 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 114 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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