In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential, or special damages, whether based on tort, contract, or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the software, or other information contained herein or the use thereof.
To view the online Specifications: • Connect to the Internet. • Go to the Sony VAIO-Link online support Web site at http://www.vaio- link.com • VAIO Recovery Guide — Provides information about restoring individual software programs, software drivers, and drive partition(s) or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings.
Click this icon and check out our most popular Sony and Club VAIO wallpapers. • Links Click this icon and check out our most popular Sony and Club VAIO web sites. Help and Support Center Help and Support Center is a comprehensive resource for practical advice, tutorials, and demonstrations to help you learn to use Microsoft Windows XP and your computer.
Ergonomic Considerations Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations: • Position of your computer – Place the display directly in front of you . Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the keyboard, pointing device, or external mouse.
VGX-XL100 lead you into the exciting world of Leverages the latest Intel components ® Uses the latest Microsoft ® Windows XP Media Center operating system Offers High Definition connectivity for Sony HD Camcorders Chapter 1: Getting Started...
Operating System Software The operating system for the VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment ® ® Computer is Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. VAIO value-added software provides you with additional features and capabilities and when teamed with Media Center, provides you with an even greater entertainment value.
Media Center Edition 2005 The following list contains a high-level overview of the features available to you in Media Center. For in-depth information about each feature, go to the specific topic in the VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Guide. Feature Online Spotlight My Pictures My TV My Music...
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Getting to know the VGX-XL100 Unpacking the VAIO VGX-XL100 Personal Computer Make sure you have the following items: VGX-XL100 PC WLAN Antenna HDMI Cable Remote Batteries (2) 8cm disc adapter Wireless Keyboard w/Integrated Pointing Device Power Cord Infrared Blaster Cable Optical S/PDIF Cable Keyboard Batteries (4) HDMI to DVI-D Adapter Remote Control...
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Setting up the Keyboard Insert the Batteries On the back of the Keyboard, remove the battery compartment cover and insert four (4) Alkaline AA batteries (Supplied) oriented as shown in the battery compartment. Replace the battery compartment cover. Activate Wireless Keyboard Communication Before using the keyboard, you must activate communications between the computer and the wireless keyboard w/integrated pointing device.
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VAIO Remote Control VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer...
Setting Up the Remote Control Start VIDEO in Media Center. Press place your computer in Standby mode. Control the playback for TV, MUSIC, VIDEOS, and ends a slide show. Buttons include: STOP, PAUSE, FWD, SKIP, REPLAY, REW, and RECORD. The right arrow button serves as a PLAY Use the arrow buttons to move to a specific...
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TV Preset for Europe PreNo Vendor ● ● ● ● ● ● ● VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●...
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Insert the Batteries On the back of the remote control, remove the battery compartment cover and insert two (2) Sony Super Mangan Alkaline AA batteries (Supplied) oriented as shown in the battery compartment. Replace the battery compartment cover. Note: When using the VAIO remote control, remember to point the remote at the VGX-XL100 personal computer, not at the TV or monitor.
The Front Inputs and Outputs Power Button Press to turn on the power to this device. If you press this button during the operation of this device, it will enter a hibernation state and the power lamp will be turned off. Power Lamp The power lamp blinks green when the electric power to this device is turned on.
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Secure Digital (SD) & MultiMediaCard™ (MMC) memory card reader Data from the SD memory card is read and written. USB Connector Connects to a device which supports the USB standard. The USB 2.0 is the standard for USB (Universal Serial Bus). The connector supports the USB 2.0 standard and can also be connected to a device which supports the USB 1.1 standard.
About Your Memory Card Reader Your VAIO computer is equipped with memory card readers that are compatible with many popular types of memory cards. You can use your computer’s memory card readers to transfer data between digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices. Supported Memory Card Readers and Compatible Media Smart Media™...
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MagicGate™ Memory Stick media, in a form that is 1/3 smaller in size. Compatibility between software programs and Memory Stick may vary. At this time, Sony suggests using only MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage™ software.
Inserting a Memory Card The memory card reader(s) are located behind a protective cover on the front of the computer. To access the Memory Card Readers, flip the front cover down. To insert Memory Cards From the front panel, locate the appropriate reader(s) for the memory card(s) you want to use.
Removing a Memory Card The correct way to remove a memory card from a memory card reader varies, depending upon the media, reader, or computer model. Use care when removing a memory card to avoid damage to the reader or card. Note: Do not remove a media card while the media access indicator light is on.
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Computer Back Panel HDMI Line IN (L/R) Audio/Video IN Line OUT (L/R) S-video IN Antenna/cable Antenna Component Video OUT VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer 13 14 Ethernet Headphone/Line-out volume S-video Optical S/PDIF OUT & coaxial S/PDIF OUT Wireless LAN antenna Infrared transmitter OUT...
Back Inputs and Output. Line IN (L/R) Connection for an external device. Audio/Video IN Connection for an Audio/Video cable to bring signal to the VGX-XL100 computer. S-Video IN Connection for an S Video cable. Antenna/Cable Connection for cable provider or external antenna. Line OUT (L/R) Connection for an external device.
Optical S/PDIF OUT & Coaxial S/PDIF OUT Connections for Audio Out. Wireless LAN Antenna Connection for Wireless LAN Antenna. Infrared Transmitter OUT (x2) Controls VCR, Setup box, and other devices in MCE. Component Video OUT (480i, Connections for Video Out. Power Cord Connection for supplied power cord.
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VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer...
Before You Begin Before setting up your VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer, consider the environment in which it will be placed. Listed below are some general guidelines. • The maximum distance between the computer and the keyboard can be up to 10 m. •...
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You cannot use HDMI™ and Component connections at the same time. • If a device driver other than the ones provided by Sony is used to update a device driver related to the video and audio, the image will not be displayed and the audio will not be heard.
required that display can support HDMI and XL100 is connected to display directly." Additional TV Connections Note: Your computer is supplied with certain video cables. Depending on your in home cable access, you may require extra cables, adapters or connection equipment not supplied with your computer. Connecting to standard cable access (CATV) Option 1 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service...
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Cable service (wall outlet) TV coaxial cable (optional) Splitter (optional) TV coaxial cable (optional) Connecting to a standard antenna (air) system You can connect your computer to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or 2 from the previous section, “Connecting to standard cable access (CATV).”...
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Connect both ends of the antenna’s twin lead cable to the screw-type grips on the combiner/transformer. Connect the TV coaxial cable (optional) from the combiner/transformer to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer. If you are connecting to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, you may need to re-orient the antenna for better reception.
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Connect a third TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer. Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter.
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Cable service (wall outlet) TV coaxial cable (optional) VHF/UVF port Splitter (optional) TV coaxial cable (optional) VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer TV coaxial cable (optional) TV coaxial cable (optional) VHF/UVF port Set-top-box (STB) VGX-XL100 computer...
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Option 2 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the In jack on the back panel of your set-top box. Connect a second TV coaxial cable (optional) to the Out jack on your set-top box.
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Composite audio R-in Composite audio L-in Composite video jack VGX-XL100 computer Audio OUT (L/R) Step 2: Connecting your Home Theater / Speakers Two-channel sound system If your sound system has two channels, use the LINE OUT (L) (R) on the back panel of the computer and the LINE IN composite audio connectors on your speakers/receiver.
More than two-channel sound system If your sound system has more than two channels, use the supplied optical S/ PDIF cable and connect one end to the S/PDIF OPTICAL OUT connector on the back panel of the computer and the other end to the OPTICAL IN connector on your sound system.
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Select Configuration. The Speaker Configuration screen displays. Verify that Analog - 5.1 Channel your system text box. Select Note: Even if you are using a S/PDIF connection, ALWAYS choose Channel. DO NOT SELECT S/PDIF. To complete Speaker Setup, go to the Windows Control Panel. Open the Control Panel.
From the S/PDIF group box: • Check the Enable Dolby Digital Live • Verify that • Verify that Enable Digital Output Note: If you are using an HDMI connection through a TV or an amplifier that supports 5.1 sound, do the following: •...
Wireless Network Connect the WLAN antenna (included) to the connector on the back panel of the VGX-XL100 computer. For better reception, if needed, you may mount the wireless LAN antenna to a wall using the included screws. Launch the Marvel Client Utility Application. Select Station as the operation mode.
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Step 4: Turning Power On Make sure all hardware is connected and that power cables are plugged into properly grounded electrical outlets. Turn on the power to the computer, TV, and speakers. Activate Wireless Keyboard Communication From the front of the keyboard, slide the From the back of the keyboard, slide the From the back of the keyboard, and the front panel of the computer, the Connect buttons simultaneously...
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Step 6: Resolution Setup To set the resolution for your TV or monitor, do the following: Using the pointing device on your wireless keyboard, right click anywhere on the Windows desktop. From the menu, point to or click The menu option name depends on what TV or monitor is connected to the computer.
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• Arrow • button: to jump to the selected link • CH +/- • More button: to display the toolbar Mouse Pointer • Arrow • button: to left-click • CH +/- • More button: to display the toolbar Scroll • UP &...
Setting Up a Local Area Network For detailed information on setting up your Wireless LAN, see Appendix A, “Setting up a Wireless LAN.” Wired Network Use an RJ-45 connector cable. Connect one end to the Ethernet connector on your computer and the other end to your cable or your modem. Wireless Network Wireless LAN removes all of the trouble of cable connections and helps to build a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) environment.
In a short time the power to the computer goes off automatically and the power lamp goes off. Note: If the power does not turn off by this procedure, you can turn the power off by holding down the Power button on the VGX-XL100 computer for more than four (4) seconds.
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The table below list the characteristics of each function: Power Lamp State Enter Standby Mode Return to normal operation Power Lamp State Enter Standby Mode Return to normal operation VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer Standby Mode Blinks in orange. Reduces power consumption because it turns off the components other than the minimum components necessary while maintaining the current working status.
Hardware Upgrades & Maintenance Adding PCI/Add-on Card A PCI standard based expansion card can be installed in this device. Check if the expansion card supports Windows XP and the PCI standard before purchasing the card. There is an open slot (place for an upgrade expansion card) to install one PCI expansion card in this device.
• Always follow the user's manual for this device when removing the expansion card. Forcefully removing the expansion card may cause failure of this device. • Do not get the expansion card wet. Warning: The entire repair cost will be charged if there is a failure or accident when installing an expansion card by yourself.
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Remove the inside support panel. Remove the screws from the inside support panel and remove the panel. Remove the clip. Remove the screw and remove the clip by pulling up. VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer...
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Remove the slot cover from the inside of this device. Be careful not to damage the circuit board and cables inside. Install the PCI card in the open slot. Refer to the card’s user's manual for details. Warning: Touching other parts when installing the expansion card may cause a failure.
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Install the inside support panel. Insert the inside support panel and tighten the screws. Install the cover and tighten the screws at the back of the unit. Note: Make sure all foreign objects have been removed before replacing the cover. Connect the power cord and the peripheral devices that were removed in Step 1 and turn on the power.
Follow the directions on the screen and in the PCI expansion card user's manual once the message "Windows has found new hardware and is installing the software for it." displays after starting Windows. Note: A driver is software that is necessary to properly operate the peripheral device, notifying the computer of what type of peripheral device is connected in what way.
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Contact customer support for questions about upgrading the memory. The Sony repair centers provide a service for charge for those who can't install the memory by themselves and for people who purchased or plan to purchase Sony memory.
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There are various types of memory modules. Make sure that the products purchased at a store have a written warranty for the device when installing. • Sony do not provide support for memory module purchased at stores. Consult with the dealer where you purchased the memory module with questions. Install Notes: Observe the following when installing a memory module in order to not damage the memory module with static.
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Please be careful of the following when upgrading the memory as the memory slots for this device are separated into two banks. • There are two banks and four slots (two in each bank) available to install memory modules in this device. Each slot can hold a 512 MB memory module.
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Touch metal to discharge any static buildup in your body and then remove the memory module from of the package. Carefully install the memory module. (Please refer to the Install Notes listed above.) If you have any problems please contact your Sony Technical Support Representative. See VAIO Support Central. •...
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Connectors go down Locking cap Align the memory module notch as shown Make sure the locking caps are back and the notch is aligned. Press down the memory module until the locking caps pop up. Press in to secore Use both hands to place the memory module VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer...
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Make sure that the memory module is installed properly. Check the following after installing the memory module: • The clips on both sides are aligned with each other. • The clips on both sides fit into the notches of the memory module properly.
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Install the upper cover. Install the cover and tighten the screws on the back. Connect the power cord and the peripheral devices that were removed in Step 1 and turn on the power to this device. Click the Start Information and then click Make sure that memory capacity is correct, memory installation is complete.
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Press out and down VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer...
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Add a Hard Disk A total of 3 serial ATA hard disks (the pre-installed hard disk plus two additional) can be installed in the hard disk drive bay inside this device. Please read the following information before adding additional hard disks. •...
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To Add / Upgrade a Hard Disk Turn off the power to this device and all peripheral devices, and remove the power cord and all cables connecting peripheral devices. Some inside components may be hot. Wait approximately one hour before proceeding to work.
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Remove the inside panel. Remove the screws from the inside panel and remove the panel. Remove the hard disk bay. Remove the cables connected to the hard disk installed at the time of purchase and remove the hard disk drive bay. Note: Touching other parts can cause a failure when installing the hard disk drive bay.
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Install the hard disk upgrade in the hard disk drive bay. Secure the hard disk upgrade in the hard disk drive bay with the screws. Install in the lower bay when there is an open space in the lower bay. Connect the cables to both of the hard disks, the one installed at the time of purchasing and the upgraded hard disk.
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Below is the location of the main unit expansion connector. Cables may be pulled out to open/close the cover if serial ATA cables with a straight connectors are used. However, the use of serial ATA cables with a L shaped connector areas is recommended. Install the hard disk drive bay in the original location.
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Install the inside panel. Insert the inside panel and tighten the screws. Install the upper cover. Install the cover and tighten the screws on the back. Connect the power cord and the peripheral devices that were removed in Step 1 and turn on the power to this device. VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer...
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Remove a Hard Disk Remove a hard disk by doing the reverse of the installation procedures. Turn off the power to this device and any peripheral devices and remove the power cord and all cables connecting to peripheral devices before removing the hard disk.
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Enter the size of the partition you want to create in the click Next. The Partition Creation Click Complete. The Partition Creation hard disk display now shows the partition has changed from Open Space. Right click on the Open Space area and click Create New Partition Click Next.
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Overview The Wireless LAN removes all of the trouble of cable connections and helps to build a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) environment. This device is equipped with a 2.4 GHz wireless LAN (IEEE802.11b/g compliant). IEEE802.11g is capable of higher speed communication than IEEE802.11b.
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• Ad hoc mode Use the VGX-XL100 as an Access Point • You may need to enter into a contract with a wireless LAN connections service provider to use wireless LAN communications when your are away. • 5 GHz wireless LAN (IEEE802.11a) technology and 2.4 GHz wireless LAN (IEEE802.11b/g) technology do not work together due to different frequencies.
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Communicate Using Infrastructure Mode Wireless LAN Access Point Note: Before setting up your wireless LAN access point, make sure you have connected the Wireless LAN Antenna to the Wireless LAN Antenna connector located on the back panel of the VGX-XL100 computer. This device and a wireless LAN access point (sold separately) can be connected using the following procedure.
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The screen to enter the Network Key displays. Input the "Network key" as needed, and click Connect. For information about the network key, please refer to "About Network Keys". “Connected” displays on the line of the selected wireless LAN access point when it is connected.
• Enter Network name (SSID). You can enter a maximum of 32 characters (case-sensitive) for the Network name (SSID). • Network Authentication • WPA-PSK Key is Provided Automatically Click OK. If you successfully connect to the new wireless LAN access point, a message displays in the communication area saying you are connected.
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Communicate Using Ad Hoc Mode Wireless Ad Hoc Connection If Ad Hoc mode is used (connecting directly to another computer), the wireless LAN devices can directly connect to each other without a wireless LAN access point. Set the first computer to Ad hoc mode and then connect the other computers to the first computer.
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Enter Network Name (SSID). You can enter a maximum of 32 characters (case-sensitive) for the Network name (SSID). Click to remove the check on needed. Enter the Network key and again to confirm the entry. Click OK. Confirm that the of the list of Preferred Networks.
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Connecting to the Ad Hoc Network. • Select the Ad hoc network to connect to from the Network list and click Connect. If you can't find the Ad Hoc Network to connect to in the Network List The screen to input the network key displays. •...
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To quit Ad Hoc mode Quit the Ad Hoc Mode with the following procedure and return to Infrastructure Mode. Click Start from the Windows taskbar, and then click From the Control Panel, click the From anywhere on the Network Connections screen, right-click and select Properties.
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Use this device to function as an access point Set this device to function as an access point for other computers. To use this device as an access point Select Turn Radio On area on the lower right desktop screen. The wireless LAN turns on and the WLAN (wireless LAN) lamp turns green.
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This allows you to change various settings to use this device as an access point. AP Settings The AP Settings screen displays below. Basic Settings Setting SSID BSSID IEEE 802.11 mode Channel Security Settings VGX-XL1 Living Room Entertainment Computer Description Enter an access point name to be displayed to the clients.
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Detailed Settings Settings Protocol Settings Access Control Wake on WLAN Wireless Disabled Security Settings screen Set the security for the access point in the Security Settings screen. Description Detailed settings of the access point can be modified. Normally, you don't need to change these. Use this setting when you want to limit the clients that can connect to the access point.
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Setting Invalid WPA-PSK VGX-XL1 Living Room Entertainment Computer Description Security settings can't be set. The transmitted packets are encrypted using WEP. Select the authentication method in Authentication] Open System: This does not authenticate when connecting to the access point. However, the network key is required to decode the communication data.
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Access control screen The Access control screen provides control over which computers are able to connect to the access point of this device. Setting Allow all stations Allow the list below Wake on wireless LAN settings screen The Wake on Wireless LAN Setting screen provides settings related to the Wake on Wireless LAN function.
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Setting Disable Wake On wireless LAN (WOW) Enable WOW and allow Wake On for all clients Enable WOW and allow Wake On for the following clients Important Note: If the setting of standby in Power Management in the “Marvell Livertas Wireless 802.11g/b Wireless (CB35) property"...
This section provides you with answers and additional information to questions and issues that may arise during the set up and operation of the VGX-XL100 Living Room Entertainment Computer. If the answers to your questions are not contained in this appendix, go to VAIO Control Central for additional help.
Power/Start Event: Power is not on and green power lamp is not lit. Comment: Confirm that the computer’s power cord is inserted firmly into an outlet. • Confirm that all of the cables are connected well. • Remove all the cables connected to this device, and connect them again after waiting five minutes, then turn the power on again.
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Event: Unable to shutdown the computer. Comment: Methods vary depending on the conditions when the power will not turn off. Confirm the following and follow the procedures below. • Quit all software you are using, then try to turn off the power again. •...
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Event: When the power is turned on a message is displayed and Windows does not load. Comment: • Remove any third-party USB devices including floppy drives and printers. • When "Bad CMOS Checksum" is displayed, the battery needs to be replaced due to the draining of the battery in this device.
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Event: Windows doesn't start after installing the upgraded drivers. Comment: Run in Safe mode by following the following steps and re-install the driver. Press the power button of this device, and when the VAIO logo is displayed on the screen press the F8 key on the keyboard. When "Windows extended options menu"...
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Event: Windows operation becomes unstable. Comment: Quit the software you are using and restart this VGX-XL100 computer. If this device doesn't restart, turn the power off by holding the power button of this device for at least four seconds. The power lamp turns off when the power is off.
Password Event: Unable to log on to Windows XP. Comment: • The password is case-sensitive. Confirm the password and re-enter. • If there is an account that was created by a user with administrative privileges, change the password from a "Computer Administrator" account other than that of the user who forgot the password.
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Event: Colors on the screen are not displayed clearly, Comment: • Turn off the power, and then restart the computer. • Check the other inputs on your display to make sure the display is working properly. Event: The screen is frozen Comment: •...
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Event: The screen is dark Comment: • Adjust the brightness of TV. Adjusting the brightness will vary depending on the type of TV. For details, please refer to the TV users manual. • Verify if other inputs on the TV are dark, if they are please refer to the TV user manual Event: When playing movies on the TV connected using a component video cable,...
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Event: Pictures on the TV screen are distorted Comment: • Confirm that this device and the display device are properly connected. • When the TV is connected using a component video cable, make sure to use an output format that matches the component terminal of the TV you are using.
Event: When the TV or display is connected to the HDMI OUT (HDMI output) connector, the image does not display. Comment: • Re-connect the HDMI cable. • It may be connected to a device that does not support HDCP. Connect to a device which supports HDCP. •...
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Event: Don't know how to enter text using the VAIO Remote Control. Comment: Refer to the Entertainment Guide. Event: Cannot enter text when I press the keys on the keyboard. Comment: Make sure that the "Num Lock" indicator on the LCD panel of the keyboard is not displayed.
Event: Cannot use the pointing device. Comment: Make sure your pointing device is not disabled. Refer to the Setting up the Keyboard topic in Chapter 1of this guide. Event: I Want to disable the pointing device. Comment: Turn the Pointing Device Switch on the back side of the keyboard to "OFF". Event: The “pointer”...
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The 8cm disc adapter (included) can be used to insert 8cm discs but the disc can only be read and not written to. Event: An error occurred in the initialization of the hard disk. Comment: • The files on the hard disk cannot be recovered. This device must be recovered by using the recovery function in the hard disk or your own recovery disk.
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Event: Cannot start-up from the hard disk. Comment: Please remove any media from the memory card reader and disconnect all third-party devices such as scanners, printers, floppy drivers, etc. and try again. • If the hard disk does not start-up with above process, you may need to perform hard disk drive recovery.
Software Limitations: Event: My software application does not launch. Comment: Some software applications require a minimum resolution higher than your current resolution setting. Please check back to our support website at http:// www.vaio-link.com. Event: Some of my shortcuts in the start menu are not visible. Comment: At 480i/480p resolution, the Start Menu gets cut off and some of the shortcuts are not visible.
DVD Playback Limitations Event: What resolution does my DVD playback? Comment: • You cannot view copy-protected DVD through component video connection • with a higher resolution than 480i/480p due to Content Scrambling System (CSS). Sound Issues: Event: The sound volume control does not work (except from the headphone jack output) from my XL100 computer.
Event: The sound coming from HDMI or S/PDIF does not work. Comment: Check the Sound Reality Control Panel. • Go to the Windows Control Panel, and then from the Category view, select Sounds, Speech and Audio Devices > Sound Reality Audio. Make sure the appropriate boxes (HDMI or S/PDIF) are checked.
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Event: This device can't communicate with the wireless LAN access point (can't access the Internet) Comment • Check the items in "Can't use the wireless LAN" above. • Make sure that the power is turned on to the wireless LAN access point. •...
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Click the Wireless Networks tab. Select the item you want to confirm from the Preferred Networks list and click Properties. Enter the Network Key and click OK. Click OK in the Wireless Network Connection Properties screen and close the screen. If access to the internet is limited, communication may not be possible.
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• Change the channel setting for the access point. The effect of band interference may disappear and this may help to improve the communication speed. However, the communication speed for IEEE802.11g slows down auto- matically because IEEE802.11g retains compatibility with IEEE802.11b under mixed circumstances with IEEE802.11b.
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Event: I want to confirm a physical address (MAC address) for a built-in wireless LAN Comment: Check the physical address (MAC address) for the built-in wireless LAN of this device. Follow the instructions below. Click Start on the Windows taskbar and then select All Programs > Accessories and click Command Prompt.
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Please add the MAC address of the devices you want to connect via the Access Limitation this feature, please select Access Limitation • When you cannot connect your VAIO access point to other wireless LAN devices, please remove the AC cable from your VAIO computer, and leave it for 5 minutes at least.
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Welcome to the VGX-XL1: Sony’s Living Room Entertainment Computer Welcome What is VGX-XL1? Benefits of the VGX-XL1 VGX-XL1 Features Getting Started Using the Remote Control Using the Wireless Keyboard Getting Around Media Center Adding files to Media Center Using the Search Feature...
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More of the latest technology and excellence you have come to expect from Sony. • Leverages the latest Intel components ® ® • Uses the latest Microsoft Windows XP Media Center operating system • Offers High Definition connectivity for Sony HD Camcorders...
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Sony establishes new standards in video and audio home entertainment, and digital content management with the Playback and manage your media library using a remote control or wireless keyboard. View it all on your TV or monitor for the optimal entertainment experience.
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V G X - X L 1 F e a t u r e s is a technologically advanced and powerful computer that will be right at home in your living room or den. Surf the Internet, download music and movies, record TV, watch videos, make copies of media files, and more—...
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G e t t i n g S t a r t e d ® VGX-XL1 uses the Mircosoft (MCE). This version has all of the features and capabilities of other XP operating systems, with one major difference—Media takes you into the world of digital home entertainment, bringing all of your entertainment sources together in a single location, easily managed by the VAIO ®...
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U s i n g t h e R e m o t e C o n t r o l Press a Remote Control button to do the following: Start MY TV MY MUSIC MY PICTURES Center. Press to place your computer in Standby STANDBY mode.
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U s i n g t h e W i r e l e s s K e y b o a r d Before using the keyboard, you must activate communication between the computer and the keyboard. Please complete the following steps for keyboard installation. Step 1: Insert the batteries •...
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G e t t i n g A r o u n d M e d i a C e n t e r From inside Media Center: Select this... To do this... Start Media Center Close Media Center, Log Off, Shut Down, Restart, and Standby. Open Media Center Press an arrow to move to a specific command or option.
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A d d i n g f i l e s t o M e d i a C e n t e r In order to access your media files to view pictures, videos, music you must place the files in a folder recognized by Media Center. Media Center recognizes the following folders located in the Note: The Recorded TV folder may be located in a separate partition on your hard drive.
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U s i n g t h e S e a r c h F e a t u r e In Media Center, you can search through the TV listings or your media library to find just the right TV show or movie to watch, or just the right song to listen too—all by remote control.
This guide will assist you in setting up Media Center for your distinct entertainment needs, and then provide you with an overview of the major features. Welcome to Sony VAIO and Microsoft Windows XP Media Center CD/DVD Player, Internet— together in a...
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Start Menu | Settings Settings General Pictures Music Messenger and Caller ID Settings Help Once you have set up your computer and have connected any additional hardware devices, you are ready to set up your Media Center preferences. The first time you start Media Center, a setup “wizard”...
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General Start Up and Window Behavior Visual and Sound Effects More Programs Options Media Center Setup Parental Controls Automatic Download Options Optimization About Media Center Privacy Settings Start Menu | Settings | General General settings are a series of options that effect Media Center and some general preferences for your computer.
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S e t U p a n d W i n d o w B e h a v i o r Start Menu | Settings | General Start Up and Window Behavior You can decide how Media Center starts and reacts to your environment.
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V i s u a l a n d S o u n d E f f e c t s Visual and Sound Effects Adding visual and sound effects can add a new dimension to your entertainment enjoyment. Here you can add transition animations, play sounds when navigating Media Center, and even change your video...
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M o r e P r o g r a m s O p t i o n s Start Menu | Settings | General More Programs Options Media Center has teamed with other applications and Internet sites to not only make your entertainment experience better, but to also make it easier to create media, and to have...
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Media Center Setup Set Up Internet Connection Set Up TV Signal Set Up Your Speakers Configure Your TV or Monitor Settings Set Up The Remote Desktop Automatic Updates Join Wireless Network Run Media Center Setup Again Restore Start Page Defaults Start Menu | Settings | General Media Center Setup takes you to the basic level of settings that are required...
S e t U p I n t e r n e t C o n n e c t i o n Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup Set Up Internet Connection Media Center makes it easy to set up your Internet connection.
Set Up TV Signal Media Center makes it easy to set up your TV signal for viewing. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questions—Media Center does the rest! You will need to confirm the region that you live in and then decide if you want Media Center to automatically configure your TV signal (recommended) or if...
S e t U p Y o u r S p e a k e r s Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup Set Up Your Speakers Media Center makes it easy to set up your speakers for your listening pleasure.
C o n f i g u r e Y o u r T V o r M o n i t o r Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup Configure Your TV or Monitor Settings Media Center makes it easy to set up your TV or monitor for viewing.
S e t U p T h e R e m o t e Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup Set Up The Remote Desk- Media Center makes it easy to set up your Remote Desktop. For each step, read the on-screen information and answer a few questions—Media Center does the rest!
Automatic Updates Media Center can help you keep your computer secure and running efficiently by automatically downloading and installing critical updates from Microsoft. You should also continue to check for additional software and driver updates on a regular basis by selecting Windows Update from the Start | All Programs...
J o i n W i r e l e s s N e t w o r k Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Join Wireless Network The advanced features of Media Center and the Living Room Entertainment Computer personal computer let you easily connect to an existing wireless local area network.
R u n M e d i a C e n t e r S e t u p A g a i n Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup Run Media Center Setup Again The first time you started Media Center, you were guided through a series of screens that helped you set up Media Center.
R e s t o r e S t a r t P a g e D e f a u l t s Start Menu | Settings | Media Center Setup Restore Start Page Defaults During the course of working with various software programs and many different types of entertainment components, you...
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Parental Controls Media Center provides a process by which selected programs can be blocked from viewing. The first time you enter Parental Control, you will be asked to enter, and then confirm a new four digit access code. Once complete, you will be given access to the following parental controls: If you turn on TV blocking, you can then select allowable TV ratings for viewing, and by selecting Advanced, you...
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A u t o m a t i c D o w n l o a d O p t i o n s Start Menu | Settings | General Automatic Download Options With Media Center and your Internet connection, you can view media information for your CDs, DVDs, and movies.
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Optimization Optimization feature is designed to help you keep your system running efficiently and smoothly. Select the Perform Optimization ) options to set a schedule time. You might want to set the Optimization not need to access Media Center. For additional information, go to Media Center help. O p t i m i z a t i o n Start Menu | Settings | General check box and then select the plus (+) or minus...
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A b o u t M e d i a C e n t e r Start Menu | Settings | General About Media Center About Media Center provides you with information concerning the version of Media Center that you are currently using, and Internet connections to the Guide Terms of Service from your TV signal provider, and Data...
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Privacy Settings Your privacy is very important to us. You can view Media Center and Guide privacy statements in detail directly from the vendor with your Internet connection. You can also use the Guide and an Internet connection to anonymously send information to Microsoft for the purpose of improving the quality and accuracy of services.
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Start | Menu | Settings | TV Recorder Guide Set Up the TV Signal Configure Your TV or Monitor Audio You can control your TV entertainment experience. Each of these options allow you to set up TV viewing preferences to make sure you get the most out of your TV viewing.
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— History — Recorder Storage — Recording Defaults Please note the following: IMPORTANT: Sony supports the lawful use of technology and does not endorse or encourage the use of our products for purposes other than those permitted by copyright law.
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H i s t o r y Start Menu | Settings | TV | Recorder History Media Center stores a complete history of all recorded programing. Information such as the recording date, name of the program and the current status is stored.
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Recorder Storage Media Center provides you with complete information about where and how your recorded programs are stored. You also have the ability to manage that information and make changes, if necessary. Available recording time graph moves in relation to the Maximum TV limit selection.
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R e c o r d i n g D e f a u l t s Start Menu | Settings | TV | Recorder Recording Defaults Media Center lets you create a list of defaults or conditions that determine the actions Media Center takes with your recorded programs.
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Guide Edit Channels Add Missing Channels Set Up Guide Listings Additional Guide Information Start Menu | Settings | TV The Media Center Guide gives you the control you need to manage your TV channels and your TV guide listing. View a channel listing from your TV signal provider where you can add, remove, and even rename channels.
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E d i t C h a n n e l s Start Menu | Settings | TV | Guide Edit Channels With Media Center, you can control what channels you and your family can access. Once you select Edit Channels, a list of channels from your TV signal provider displays on your screen.
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Add Missing Channels If for any reason you need to add a channel to your list of available channels, you can do so through Add Missing Channels. For example, you previously deleted a channel and now want to add it back.
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S e t U p G u i d e L i s t i n g s Start Menu | Settings | TV | Guide Set Up Guide Listings Media Center makes it easy to set up to download and view your TV Program Guide.
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A d d i t i o n a l G u i d e I n f o r m a t i o n To immediately download Program Guide listings, select To download and view Guide Terms of Service, select Use the arrow key on your remote control to move to a menu option and press the button to select the option.
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S e t U p t h e T V Start Menu | Settings | TV Set Up the TV Signal Media Center makes it easy to set up your TV Signal for viewing. Just read the on-screen information and answer a few questions—Media Center does the rest! As you answer the questions and...
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C o n f i g u r e Y o u r T V o r M o n i t o r Configure Your TV or Monitor Media Center makes it easy to set up your TV or monitor for viewing.
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A u d i o Start Menu | Settings | TV Audio With Media Center, you can set up options, such as Audio (Stereo,SAP), Captioning (CC1, CC2) and Caption Display (On, Off, On when muted) that affect your TV viewing. Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to the Audio, Captioning, or Caption Display (+) or (-) buttons.
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Pictures Gain complete control over how you view your digital pictures. • Choose to view your pictures in order or randomly. • Choose to show pictures in sub folders or the main folder. • Choose to view picture captions. • Choose a slide transition type. •...
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Start Menu | Settings Music Visualizations Visualizations Options To enjoy Visualizations while you are listening to your favorite music, select one or more viewing samples from the from the Visualization Options With Media Center, you can add a visual component to your listening pleasure with Visualizations.
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V i s u a l i z a t i o n s Start Menu | Settings | Music Visualizations To enhance your music enjoyment, Media Center provides eight different visual interpretations of the musical performance. Alchemy Ambience Bars and Waves Battery Particle Plenoptic...
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V i s u a l i z a t i o n s O p t i o n s Start Menu | Settings | Music Visualizations Options Media Center “Visualizations” are visual interpretations of an artist’s music that play on your TV or computer screen while you listen to the music.
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DVD Language DVD Audio Close Captioning Remote Control Options Start Menu | Settings | DVD Media Center gives you the control to determine how best to create your cinematic experience. Enhance your experience by selecting from these four topics that allow you to choose and define how to view your DVD movies.
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D V D L a n g u a g e Start Menu | Settings | DVD DVD Language When viewing a DVD, Media Center give you the option of changing the language for subtitles, the audio track, and menus. Choose from a list of 70 different languages, or select Title Default to play the DVD in...
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Imagine yourself fully immersed ® in rich Dolby Digital surround sound—not in a theatre, but in your home. Sony, InterVideo, and your Dolby Digital sources for sound bring the theatre experience to your living room. Media Center and InterVideo helps you set up your speakers and environment to fully create the cinematic experience.
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C l o s e C a p t i o n i n g Start Menu | Settings | DVD Close Captioning Media Center gives you the option of adding closed captioning to your DVD viewing. Enjoy DVD movies with those who are hearing impaired, or when sound in your environment becomes a viewing factor.
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Remote Control Options When watching your favorite DVD’s, you might want to watch only certain parts of a movie or skip forward or backward to locate a specific scene. Media Center makes this easy. You can set your remote control to skip chapters and skip forward and back, giving you the control and flexibility to watch exactly what...
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Start Menu | Settings Messenger and Caller ID Settings Enjoy Media Center and keep in contact with friends and family. You can sign in or sign out of Messenger at any time while in Media Center. You can also: • Turn on and off the Do Not Disturb mode.
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Help Windows Media Center is very easy to use when you follow the on-screen instructions. However, when you do need additional information, Media Center provides you with four areas of assistance. Media Center Help Community Forums Latest Tips Help with your Hardware Please visit each of these areas and experience the quality assistance Media Center provides to you and your family.
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A d d i t i o n a l H e l p Start Menu | Settings | Help You can access Media’s Center’s Help areas by the following methods: Remote Control - Press the More button, select Settings, then Help. Remote Mouse - Move the Mouse to activate the Media Center tool bar, which appears at top of the screen.
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® VAIO Updates Sony Support provides updates designed specifically for your computer. All you need to do is go to Sony’s Internet support site and enter the model number of your computer. Contact Sony Support Internet Support https://e-support.vaio-link.com/eSupport/ PortalJSP/Portal.jsp Customer Support http://www.vaio-link.com/contacts/con-...
Media Center Features Experience Media Center My DVDs Online Spotlight My Videos My Pictures My TV My Music Create DVD More Programs VAIO personal computers equipped ® with Microsoft Windows Center Edition 2005 lets you experience the new and exciting world of digital home entertainment.
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E x p e r i e n c e M e d i a C e n t e r Review the following list for a high-level overview of the exciting features in Media Center. For in-depth information about each feature, go to the specific topic in this book or to the Media Center help file.
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You can categorize your pictures in as many folders as you wish. Then, select a group to view a single picture or a slide of all pictures in the folder. Take control of your TV viewing experience. Watch live TV or record your favorite show for later viewing. Enjoy access to all the music stored on your hard drive.
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Start Menu | My DVD My DVDs DVD Movie Controls Helpful Hints Watching DVD movies in Media Center lets you take control of your movie experience. Sit back and use the remote control to play, pause, rewind, fast forward, stop, and even eject your DVD movie.
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D V D M o v i e C o n t r o l s Start Menu | My DVD Media Center offers you the flexibility of using the remote control, or keyboard and mouse commands to simplify your DVD movie watching experience. If you are enjoying the TV, Video, or Music options in Media Center and wish to view a DVD movie, simply insert the DVD and the following image appears.
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Resize the Viewing Screen You can watch your DVD movie in a small viewport screen, which allows you access to other areas of Media Center, by pressing the Windows button on your remote control. If you want to work and watch your DVD movie and the same time, move your mouse for the Windows resize buttons to appear.
Start Menu | Online Spotlight Online Spotlight Media Center and Online Spotlight provide you direct access to various Internet entertainment sites. You can view the sites by category by selecting a menu option. Use the arrows on your remote control to move to a site button. Information about the site displays below the list.
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My Videos Organize Your Videos Play Your Videos More Information Create a DVD/CD Import/Edit Video Helpful Hints Start Menu | My Videos Watch your home movies and digital videos stored on your hard disk drive using the Media Center remote control or your keyboard and mouse.
O r g a n i z e Y o u r V i d e o s Start Menu | My Videos With Media Center, it is easy to store and organize videos that you have created with your digital camera, digital recorder, or downloaded from the Internet. For you to view your videos in Media Center, the files must be stored in a location that Media Center looks in.
With Media Center, it is easy to select and play a video stored anywhere on your hard drive. You can view your videos in full screen, windowed, or in a viewport window. Viewing from a viewport window gives you access to your computer or the Internet outside of Media Center.
M o r e I n f o r m a t i o n Start Menu | My Videos In Media Center, it’s easy to find out more information about any digital video in your library. It doesn’t matter if you just want to see the information before you watch it, or if you’re already watching the video.
With Media Center, it is easy to copy your digital videos to a CD or DVD for safe keeping or to share with family and friends. Select a video, and then select CD / DVD. Media Center will then take you through a series of screens, which contain simple instructions to assist you in performing such tasks as: Select your disc format.
Resize the Viewing Screen You can watch your DVD movie in a viewport screen, which allows you access to other areas of Media Cen- ter, by pressing the Windows button on your remote control. If you want to work and watch your DVD movie at the same time, move your mouse for the Windows resize buttons to appear.
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Start Menu | My Pictures My Pictures Organize Your Pictures View Your Pictures Edit Your Pictures Play a Slide Show Create a CD/DVD Picture Details Helpful Hints Media Center makes it easy and fun to look at your digital photos. From Photos you can: •...
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Using My Pictures in Media Center, it is easy to store and organize pictures that you have created with your digital camera or downloaded from the Internet. For you to view your pictures in Media Center, the files must be stored in a location that Media Center looks in.
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V i e w Y o u r P i c t u r e s Start Menu | My Pictures With Media Center, it is easy to select and view digital images stored in My Pictures anywhere else on your hard drive.
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Picture Details: Edit Your Pictures It’s easy to edit your pictures directly in Media Center’s My Pictures. Use the arrow keys on the remote control and move to a picture. Press Picture Details. From here you can: Rotates picture 45 degrees. If you select Automatically removes red eye from people and pets.
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P l a y a S l i d e S h o w Start Menu | My Pictures Instead of viewing your digital pictures individually, why not add some fun. It’s easy to create a slide show and even add background music.
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With Media Center, its easy to copy your digital pictures to a CD or DVD for safe keeping or to share with family and friends. Simply select or open a picture folder, and then select Create CD / DVD. Media Center will then take you through a series of screens, which contain simple instructions to assist you in performing such tasks as: Select disc format.
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P i c t u r e D e t a i l s Start Menu | My Pictures In Media Center, it’s easy to find out more information about any digital picture in your library. Use the arrow keys on your remote control to move to a picture icon button.
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Picture Zooming and Panning Select a picture from My Pictures. Press once to magnify 150%. Press again to magnify 225%. Now you can use the arrows to pan around the picture. Press again to return the picture to its original size Printing Pictures in Media Center Start Media Center and from My Pictures, select the pictures you want...
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Start Menu | My TV My TV Watch Live TV View the Guide Guide Helpful Hints Record and Schedule Programs 86 Record and Schedule Helpful Hints Watch Recorded Programs Search for a Program Search for a Feature Movie Watching your favorite TV program or movie in Media Center puts you in complete control of your viewing experience.
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Live TV Watch your favorite TV show or movie Center buffer feature to pause, rewind, fast forward, or continue viewing your live program in progress. Use the button on the remote control to display TV show information. Recorded TV Record any TV show or program for later a list of recorded programs by date or title, a list of programs scheduled to be recorded, play a recorded program, find out why a program wasn’t recorded, or add a TV recording.
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W a t c h L i v e T V Start | My TV Watch live TV or record your favorite shows to view later. Use the Guide to find the show you want to watch or record. When you watch live TV, Media Center continuously captures 30 minute increments of the program.
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The Guide displays TV channel and program information, including titles, descriptions, categories, ratings, and program times. You can view and scroll through the list of current and future TV shows in the Guide. When you select a program, information about the program displays below the program listings.
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G u i d e H e l p f u l H i n t s Important Information Guide data may not be available in all countries or regions. Please consult your local TV signal provider. Make sure you are connected to the Internet and check your TV signal and guide settings in the Settings menu.
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R e c o r d a n d S c h e d u l e P r o g r a m s Media Center lets you record the program you are watching, one scheduled to broadcast later, or a recurring program series.
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R e c o r d a n d S c h e d u l e H e l p f u l H i n t s Standby Mode and Scheduled Recordings Media Center will continue to record your scheduled TV shows even if you place the computer in standby or in hibernation state.
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W a t c h R e c o r d e d P r o g r a m s Recorded TV is the storage place for all your recorded programs. In Recorded TV window, you can sort your programs by name, date, or category.
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S e a r c h f o r a P r o g r a m Start Menu | My TV Media Center My TV has an easy to use search feature that lets you quickly locate the program you want to watch or record.
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S e a r c h f o r a F e a t u r e M o v i e Start | My TV | Movies When you select the Movies menu option, Media Center searches your entire TV Guide listing for movies based on your input for what you want to see.
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Note: You can also use the Windows Media Player to play music and add, delete, categorize, and organize your music files. However, if you use Windows Media Center’s My Music for your listening entertainment needs, you will have the added benefits of Sony’s VAIO enhanced features. Please see Windows Media Player Help for additional information.
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O r g a n i z e Y o u r M u s i c F i l e s With Media Center, it is easy to store and organize music files that you have added from your favorite CD’s or have downloaded from the Internet. For you to listen to music in Media Center, the files must be stored in a location that Media Center looks in.
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Start | My Music Once you’ve placed your music files in the My Music library, you are ready to listen to your favorite song, album (CD), or playlist. Media Center provides you with several categories in which to sort your music files for easy locating. Albums (CDs) Shows thumbnail of cover and title, if connected to the Internet.
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In Media Center’s Music, you can “line up” or queue the music you want to hear. The simply a temporary list of music. By using this feature, you don’t have to keep selecting new songs or albums. There can be several pieces of music lined up to play one after the other.
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A d d M u s i c Start | My Music From a CD Press the Media Center Start on the remote control, and then select Music. Insert a CD into the CD drive of the personal computer. Select the Albums category.
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C r e a t e a n d O r g a n i z e P l a y l i s t s A Playlist is a customized list of songs you can keep to play at a later time or record to CD.
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H e l p f u l H i n t s Selecting a Visualization From Media Center, select Settings, and then Music. Go to Visualizations Options to choose when and how the visualizations display. Then go to Visualizations from eight different graphical patterns. Create a CD/DVD From Media Center, select and then select the music you want to...
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Create DVD Main Screen IMPORTANT: Sony supports the lawful use of technology and does not endorse or encourage the use of our products for purposes other than those permitted by copyright law. Start Menu | Create DVDPlease note the following:...
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M a i n S c r e e n Start Menu | Create DVD Create DVD main screen shows you a list of all of your TV show recordings. To create a DVD, select the desired recordings from the list. With each recording selected, information about the recording and the DVD displays.
More Programs From More Programs, Sony’s advanced features offers you direct access to various programs that can enhance your entertainment experience. Create CD/DVD Burn pictures for slide shows, video files, and recorded TV. Create DVD VAIO added value program to archive recorded TV shows.
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MORE button on the remote control to access a toolbar that contains several functions button, including how to exit Internet Explorer. Thank you for purchasing the Sony More Programs offers you access to, contains a Tools > Remote Control Option ...
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