Page 1: Table Of Contents
Launcher mode ...23 Guide mode...24 Center Jog Dial back button...24 Using the center Jog Dial control with Sony software ...25 Using the center Jog Dial control with other software ...25 Using the Removable Hard Disk Drive...26 Using the Optical Disc Drive ...27 To insert a disc ...27...
Page 2 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Memory Stick Media ... 36 Types of Memory Stick media... 36 Write-protecting Memory Stick media ... 38 Formatting Memory Stick media ... 38 Notes on using Memory Stick media... 39 Using a Second Battery Pack...
Page 3 Connecting a Port Replicator ...55 To attach your notebook to the port replicator ...55 To remove your notebook from the port replicator ...57 Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard...59 To connect an external mouse or keyboard ...59 Connecting an Audio Device ...60 Connecting a CD player, active speaker, or an amplifier ..60 Connecting an AV Device...62 Connecting a Parallel Port Printer ...66...
Page 4 Wireless LAN PC Card... 80 Customizing Your VAIO Notebook ...81 Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ... 82 To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: ... 82 Sony Notebook Setup tabs ... 83 Controlling Power Management ... 84 Viewing the Power Management status icons ... 84 Power Management profiles ...
Page 5 About the Software on Your Notebook .103 Software Overview...104 Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs...110 Using Your Recovery CDs...111 To use the Application Recovery CD(s)...111 To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) ...112 To use the System Recovery CD(s) ...115 Troubleshooting ...117 Troubleshooting Your Notebook ...118 My notebook does not start...118 My notebook starts but a BIOS error appears...118...
Page 6 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral De- vices ... 125 My floppy disk drive (optional) cannot write to a floppy disk. My optical disc drive is not playing my CD or DVD proper- ly...
Page 7 Getting Help ...133 Support Options...134 Software Support Information...136 Sony Service Center...137 Index ...139...
Page 8 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 9: Welcome
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO computer, and welcome to the VAIO User Guide. This User Guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software applications. In the left navigation window, click the topics you want to learn more...
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Page 11: Using Your Vaio Notebook
Using Your VAIO Notebook This section describes the following aspects of your new computer: Using the Keyboard Using the Touchpad Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using the Removable Hard Disk Drive Using the Optical Disc Drive Using PC Cards Using Memory Stick Media Using a Second Battery Pack Using the Weight Saver...
Page 12: Using The Keyboard
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Keyboard Your notebook keyboard is very similar to that of a typewriter, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Keyboard Escape key Shift key Ctrl key Fn key Windows key Description...
Page 13 Description Function keys The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, F1 is the Help key. The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next. Escape key The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Page 14: Combinations And Functions With The Windows Key
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function + F1 Displays VAIO® Help and Support Center. + Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays the desktop. Displays Windows Explorer. Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find a file or folder.
Page 15: Indicators
Indicators Indicator Function Power Light is green when the power to the notebook is turned on, flashes amber in Standby mode, and turns off when the notebook is in Hibernate mode or powered off. Battery 1 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery bay on the right side of the notebook.
Page 16: Indicator Lights
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Indicator lights Light The number keys in the numeric Lock keypad are active. Caps The letters appear in uppercase as you Lock type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on. Scroll The screen scrolls differently.
Page 17: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key
Combinations and functions with the Fn key If you switch user identities during a computing session, the Fn+F7 and Fn+F8 key functionality (if available on your computer) will be interrupted. To switch to an external display or monitor, see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. Combinations/ Feature Function...
Page 18 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combinations/ Feature Function only/ Toggles between LCD-only and dual LCD/TV display (F8) modes. Control AV out Connect the cable before you turn on the notebook, otherwise Fn + F8 will not work. (F12) Provides for the lowest level of power consumption.
Page 19: Using The Touchpad
Using the Touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Touchpad Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object.
Page 20 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Action Description Right-click Press the right button once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive choices. Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button. Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touchpad to scroll vertically.
Page 21: Vaio Action Setup
VAIO Action Setup, right-click the Jog Dial Utility icon * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 22: Using The Center Jog Dial Control
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Center Jog Dial Control Your notebook is equipped with a center Jog Dial control located below the left and right buttons. The center Jog Dial control enables you to open an application, folder, or document from a predefined list by rotating and pressing the center Jog Dial control.
Page 23: Launcher Mode
Using the Center Jog Dial Control Launcher mode The center Jog Dial control window is in launcher mode until a software application is launched or the Jog Dial control window becomes active. When you select an item in the Jog Dial control window and it is displayed between orange bars, you can press the center Jog Dial control to view a submenu of that item.
Page 24: Guide Mode
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Rotate the center Jog Dial control to select the item you want, and then press the center Jog Dial control. The Jog Dial Launcher window switches to guide mode and shows the function of the center Jog Dial control. Jog Dial Guide Rotate or press the center Jog Dial control to use the desired function.
Page 25: Using The Center Jog Dial Control With Sony Software
Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using the center Jog Dial control with Sony software If Sony software that supports the center Jog Dial control is active, you can use the functions of the center Jog Dial control that are allocated to that software. For more information on functions allocated to software, see the software application’s Help.
Page 26: Using The Removable Hard Disk Drive
The hard disk drive is preformatted and ready to let you take full advantage of all Sony VAIO® features. You can upgrade to a higher-capacity hard disk drive as your computing needs warrant. Sony does not guarantee interoperability with removable hard disk drives other than the one provided with your VAIO®...
Page 27: Using The Optical Disc Drive
Using the Optical Disc Drive Your notebook comes with a removable optical disc drive located in the multipurpose bay. Depending on the system you purchased, your optical disc drive is either a CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive or a DVD-ROM drive. The optical disc drive is removable when the power is on, but do not remove the drive when your notebook is in a power saving mode.
Page 28: To Eject A Disc
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Place an optical disc on the tray with the label side facing up. For DVDs that can played on both sides, the side of the disc facing up is the side that plays. Press the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place.
Page 29: To Play A Dvd
If the optical disc does not slide out when you press the Eject button, turn off the notebook and insert a thin, pointed object (such as a paper clip) into the manual eject hole. Make sure to seat the disc firmly over the hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your optical drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
Page 30: To Play An Audio Cd
Change text in this variable definition to document title. When playing a DVD on battery power, set the power management profile to DVD. You can also set the power management profile to Automatic Profile Selection if the display is not clear when using other profiles. Automatic Profile Selection sets the power management profile to DVD whenever a DVD is inserted.
Page 31: Notes On Cd And Dvd Discs
To write data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc You can use Sony SonicStage and Microsoft® Windows® XP to write data to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. To create a CD-R disc that is readable in a CD-ROM drive, make sure that you finish the writing process before ejecting the disc.
Page 32 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Your notebook does not support 1x writing speed. Memory-resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss. Deactivate these utilities before writing data to a disc. If your notebook computer has preinstalled Microsoft® Office applications, such as Excel, Word, and Outlook, turn off the FindFast application.
Page 33: Using Pc Cards
Using PC Cards Do not strike or shake the notebook while writing data to a disc. Always use the AC adapter as the power source for your notebook if you are writing data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc. Using battery power may result in data transfer failure.
Page 34: To Remove A Pc Card
Restart your system to correct the problem. Some PC Cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information.
Page 35 Using PC Cards If an exclamation mark (!) appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it. You may not be able to use some PC Cards or some functions of the PC Card with this notebook.
Page 36: Using Memory Stick Media
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Memory Stick Media This compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. The medium is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, the media can be used for external data storage.
Page 37 To insert Memory Stick media Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot. Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins. Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place. Inserting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media Insert Memory Stick media...
Page 38: Write-Protecting Memory Stick Media
Change text in this variable definition to document title. When the Memory Stick media ejects, pull it out. Be careful when removing the Memory Stick media, as it may eject completely from the slot. Write-protecting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
Page 39: Notes On Using Memory Stick Media
Recorded music is limited to private use only. Using recorded music for any other purpose requires permission of the copyright holders. Sony is not responsible for music files that cannot be recorded from a CD or downloaded from other sources.
Page 40 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Formatting Memory Stick media erases all data (including music data) previously saved to it. Before you format Memory Stick media, confirm that the media does not contain files you want to keep. Do not use the media in locations that are subject to static electricity or electrical noise.
Page 41: Using A Second Battery Pack
Using a Second Battery Pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time that you use your notebook with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first charges first. The battery pack you insert second begins charging when the first battery pack is 85 percent full.
Page 42: To Charge The Second Battery Pack
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using weight saver for second battery cover Battery pack Weight saver Keep the battery pack in the notebook while it is connected to AC power. The battery indicator flashes while the battery is charging. See also “To charge the battery pack”...
Page 43: To Remove The Second Battery Pack
To remove the second battery pack If you attach two battery packs, you can remove either of them without shutting down the notebook. When removing one battery pack, make sure that the other battery pack’s indicator is on. If the indicator of the battery pack you are removing is on, right-click the battery icon on the taskbar and click the “Switch discharge battery”...
Page 44: Using The Weight Saver
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty, and secures the secondary battery when it is installed in the multipurpose bay. To attach the weight saver If another device, such as a battery pack, is in the multipurpose bay, remove that device.
Page 45: To Remove The Weight Saver
To remove the weight saver To remove the weight saver, first slide the multipurpose bay Release lever in the direction of the arrow. Multipurpose bay Release lever Remove the weight saver. Using the Weight Saver Release lever...
Page 46: Using Power Saving Modes
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Power Saving Modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your notebook, 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 notebook has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Page 47 To activate Hibernate mode To activate Hibernate mode, press the power button and release it immediately, or press the key combination Fn+F12. The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears, and then the notebook enters Hibernate mode. Do not move the notebook until its power indicator turns off. To return to normal mode To return to normal mode, turn on the notebook by pressing the power button.
Page 48: Connecting A Phone Line
You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet. In order to register your Sony VAIO notebook, register your software online, and use Sony Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line.
Page 49: Connecting To A Lan
Connecting to a LAN You can connect your notebook to 10Base-T and 100Base-TX-type Local Area Networks (LANs). For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Warning: Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the jack.
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Page 51: Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your notebook by connecting a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive Connecting a Port Replicator Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard Connecting an Audio Device Connecting an AV Device Connecting a Parallel Port Printer Connecting a USB Printer...
Page 52: Connecting An External Floppy Disk Drive
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive You can connect a Sony USB floppy disk drive (not supplied) to the on your notebook. To connect an external floppy disk drive You do not need to shut down your notebook before connecting or disconnecting a floppy disk drive.
Page 53: To Insert A Floppy Disk
To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing upward. Gently push the floppy disk into the drive until it clicks into place. Inserting a Floppy Disk Floppy disk drive To remove a floppy disk When you finish using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator turns off and then press the Eject button to remove the floppy disk.
Page 54: To Carry An External Floppy Disk Drive
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Double-click in the taskbar. The “Safely remove ...” dialog box appears. Click the dialog box. The message, “Safe to Remove Hardware” appears. Click to close the message. You can now safely remove the external floppy disk drive. To carry an external floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk cable into the side compartment on the floppy disk drive.
Page 55: Connecting A Port Replicator
Connecting a Port Replicator Your notebook supports the use of the Sony PCGA-PRG1 port replicator (optional). Attaching the port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your notebook. Port replicator DC In port USB ports Mouse/Keyboard (PS/2) port 8...
Page 56 Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. Connecting AC adapter to port replicator The power indicator on top of the port replicator turns green. Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook or the optional Sony adapter. Power indicator Port replicator connector Power Close the tilt stands before attaching the notebook to the port replicator.
Page 57: To Remove Your Notebook From The Port Replicator
Align the bottom connector of the notebook with the connectors on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into place. Attaching notebook to port replicator Notebook Turn on the notebook. To remove your notebook from the port replicator Turn off your notebook and the connected peripherals.
Page 58 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Lift the notebook away from the port replicator. Removing notebook from port replicator...
Page 59: Connecting A Ps/2 External Mouse Or Keyboard
Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using a similar type PS/2® plug or adapter. Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or keyboard, turn off the notebook. You can only connect one external device at a time.
Page 60: Connecting An Audio Device
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an Audio Device You can connect an audio device to the optional port replicator or the notebook. See the manual and online help that came with your audio device for detailed instructions.
Page 61 Without the optional port replicator, simply connect an audio output device to the Headphone jack on the notebook. Connecting an Audio Device to the Notebook Connecting an Audio Device To Headphone jack Audio cable (optional) Active speaker, amplifier, etc.
Page 62: Connecting An Av Device
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an AV Device You can connect an audio-video (AV) device, such as a TV or a video deck, to the optional port replicator or the notebook. Prior to attaching a video device, unplug the connecting cable from the Monitor jack. To connect an AV device to the optional port replicator, use the S-video jack and the Headphone jack, which require a S-video cable and an audio cable.
Page 63 audio-video cable. Remember to switch the TV input channel to external input and set up the TV configuration system. See “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. Connecting a TV to the Port Replicator S-video Jack To S-video jack Audio (R) Audio (L) To Headphone jack Audio cable (optional)
Page 64 Change text in this variable definition to document title. If you connect an AV device to the S-video jack, you must use the Audio (L) and the Audio (R). Also, the S-video jack and the AV out jack are not designed to be used simultaneously.
Page 65 Connecting an AV Device Toggle between your LCD and your TV with the Fn+F8 key combination. Your image is now displayed on both LCD and TV. Re-insert your DVD to launch your DVD software. A part of the image cannot be displayed on your TV display if the resolution of your notebook is more than 1024 x 768 dots.
Page 66: Connecting A Parallel Port Printer
If your printer stops functioning after resuming from a power saving mode, see “Troubleshooting the Printer” for more information. Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information.
Page 67: Connecting A Usb Printer
Connecting a USB Printer You can connect a Windows XP operating system-compatible Universal Serial Bus (USB) printer to any of your notebook’s three USB ports to print documents. To use a printer, first install the driver software that came with your printer. To connect a USB printer Plug the optional USB printer cable into one of the three USB ports on your notebook and the USB port on your printer.
Page 68: Connecting An External Display
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Display You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use the notebook with any of the following: Computer display (monitor) Multimedia computer display Projector Connect the external display before you turn on the notebook.
Page 69 If necessary, plug one end of the display power cord into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet. Connecting an external computer display Monitor port See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on its installation and use.
Page 70: To Connect A Multimedia Computer Display
See the manual that came with your multimedia computer display for more information on its installation and use. To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. Connecting a projector Monitor port...
Page 71 Use the keys to select a display. See also “Selecting the Display Mode” for Fn+F7 more information. Press Switch to an Fn+F7 external display Connect the cable before you turn on the notebook, otherwise Fn + F7 will not work. Connecting an External Display Result Toggles between the LCD, the external display...
Page 72: Connecting A Usb Device
USB device. Connecting USB device to USB port You can use an optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series (not supplied) with this notebook. Since the USB mouse software driver is preinstalled in the notebook, you simply plug the USB mouse into the USB port to use it.
Page 73: Connecting An I.link Device
VAIO® sonystyle Web site (http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio/), or by calling 1-888-315- 7669 (toll free). * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nector. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software application, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 74: To Connect A Digital Video Camera Recorder
To DV In/Out The above figure displays a connection to a Sony digital video camera recorder; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. Only Sony digital video camera ports labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are i.LINK- compatible.
Page 75 VMC-IL4615 (a 1.5 meter-cable with a 4-pin connector at one end and a 6-pin connector at the other). You can purchase these cables from your local retailer, through the Sony VAIO® sonystyle Web site (http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio/), or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).
Page 76: Connecting With Another Vaio Computer
Smart Connect 3.0 software preinstalled, consult the Sony Web site for support options (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 77: Connecting External Speakers
Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your notebook by connecting external speakers. See the manual that came with the speakers for more information on their installation and use. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; the speakers’ magnetic field may damage the data on the floppy disks.
Page 78: Connecting An External Microphone
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. See the manual that came with the microphone for more information on its installation and use. Make sure the microphone is designed for notebook use.
Page 79: Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities
A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) A Wireless LAN Access Point A Wireless LAN PC Card For more information on available Sony products, go to http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio. Personal Digital Assistant A handheld PDA is the quintessential personal planner and entertainment center that fits in your pocket. With a PDA, you can easily perform the following...
Page 80: Wireless Lan Pc Card
Point. With the Access Point, you can build a wireless LAN between computers that are equipped with the Wireless LAN PC Card and gain access to the Internet. Without the Access Point, you can achieve direct communication (Peer to Peer mode) between computers. For information on available Sony products, go to http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan.
Page 81: Customizing Your Vaio Notebook
Customizing Your VAIO Notebook The following sections briefly describe how to change your notebook’s default settings. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Controlling Power Management Displaying Battery Information Selecting the Display Mode...
Page 82: Displaying The Sony Notebook Setup Screen
Select Programs, Sony Notebook Setup, and then click Sony Notebook Setup. Sony Notebook Setup Screen Select the tab for the item you want to change. See “Sony Notebook Setup tabs” for more information. After you finish making your changes, click OK.
Page 83: Sony Notebook Setup Tabs
Initial Setting Touchpad Power On Password Enable Ports Basic/Advanced For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the Help file. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Description Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.
Page 84: Controlling Power Management
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power management of your notebook and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your computer’s battery power.
Page 85: Power Management Profiles
To customize Power Management settings Click the Current Profile icon on the Power Management toolbar. Select Edit/Create Profiles from the menu. Click a profile whose setting you want to change from the list in the left field. Double-click an item whose setting you want to change from the list in the right field.
Page 86 Change text in this variable definition to document title. the predefined profiles (except for the Disable Power Management profile), or you can create your own profile to suit your portable computing needs. The predefined profiles are: Icon Description Maximum Performance Provides the best system performance while still conserving power.
Page 87 Controlling Power Management Icon Description Word Processing Optimizes power management with longer timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby mode to optimize power management for your system. Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications.
Page 88: Power Management Commands
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Power Management commands PowerPanel also provides power management commands that you can use to activate specific power management functions and to control power for a specific device. You can use these commands to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action.
Page 89: Displaying Battery Information
Displaying Battery Information You can display information for each of the batteries in your notebook. The following sections briefly describe how to display your notebook’s general battery information. Refer to PowerPanel Help for more detailed information. To activate the Battery Information toolbar Right-click the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
Page 90: Displaying Detailed Battery Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Battery icon Battery status Fully charged Discharging No battery Displaying detailed battery information Double-click the battery icon on the taskbar to display the Battery Information window. The Battery tab contains information such as battery charging time and duration of the battery charge.
Page 91 Displaying Battery Information Customizing the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system You can customize the Battery Information toolbar and modify the alarm settings, to suit your portable computing needs. Refer to PowerPanel Help for more information.
Page 92: Selecting The Display Mode
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the ATI video controller. You can select which display is used when the notebook is connected to an external monitor. When you connect an external display, you can switch the display mode between your notebook’s LCD display and the external monitor.
Page 93 Selecting the Display Mode Click the Displays tab and select the display settings by clicking the icon on the panel of your display choice. For more information, click the Help button. If you cannot see your movie or DVD on the external display, change the monitor or TV setting by clicking on the Secondary icon and changing it to Primary...
Page 94: Changing The Window Design Of Sony Software
Click << or >> and select the desired design. Click Apply. The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The window design for your Sony software will match the “UI Design Selector” window. To try another selection, click << or >> and then click OK to close the UI Design Selector.
Page 95: Adding Memory
Adding Memory In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your notebook. The amount of memory on your notebook will vary depending on the model you purchased. See the Specifications flyer that came with your notebook for the amount of memory pre- installed.
Page 96: Precautions And Procedures
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Precautions and Procedures The procedures described below assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal notebooks and with common safety practices required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Personal injury or equipment damage may result from failure to take these precautions.
Page 97: Typical Expansion Memory Configuration
Typical expansion memory configuration Models with 256 MB Memory Total System Memory (MB)Slot 1 (MB) Typical expansion memory configuration Slot 2 (MB)
Page 98: Removing A Memory Module
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Removing a memory module Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your notebook and remove the battery pack(s). After your notebook has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 99 Remove the memory module. Removing memory module 1 Pull the tabs in the direction of the arrow The memory module is released . Tighten the screw on the memory bay cover. Your notebook comes with a memory module installed in the memory slot. To upgrade your memory, removal of this module may be necessary before installing your upgrade memory module(s).
Page 100: Installing A Memory Module
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Installing a memory module Follow steps 1 to 4 of “Removing a memory module” for removing the preinstalled memory. Remove the new memory module from its packaging. Install the memory module by sliding it into the memory module slot. Press the module into place until it clicks.
Page 101: Viewing The Amount Of Memory
The amount of memory displayed in the Sony Notebook Setup screen is not always correct. The video adapter uses some system memory, and that amount of memory does not appear as part of the total memory shown in the Sony Notebook Setup screen.
Page 102 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 103: About The Software On Your Notebook
This section provides the following information: An overview of the various software titles that come with your notebook and the activities you can perform with your software Details on your Sony application, driver, and system recovery CDs...
Page 104: Software Overview
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Overview Depending on the configuration of your notebook, all software listed below may not be supplied. Adobe Acrobat Reader™ Adobe Systems, Inc. Acrobat Reader software enables you to view, navigate, and print electronic documents in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF), an open file format that is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents created on all major computer platforms.
Page 105 Internet Explorer also help you have a great experience when you are on the Web. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 106 MovieShaker™ Sony Electronics Inc. Sony’s original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have transitions, background music and text. Just import your video clips and “shake” with a click of the mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to share with family and friends.
Page 107 Sony Electronics Inc. This image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica® camera. The images appear in a convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder.
Page 108 Sony Electronics Inc. Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart Capture manages the i.LINK® connection between your computer and a Sony Digital Handycam® Camcorder that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture compressed video or still images that you can save or share via e-mail.
Page 109 Software Overview VisualFlow™ Sony Electronics Inc. VisualFlow software is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick® media. It displays any still picture, movie, or sound file stored in a Memory Stick media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner.
Page 110: Application, Driver, And System Recovery Cds
Your notebook comes with the following application and system recovery CDs. To use your recovery CDs, see “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information. Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are erased. Driver Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
Page 111: Using Your Recovery Cds
Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD. If you have any questions on using the Application Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. Turn on your notebook. If your notebook is already on, close all applications.
Page 112: To Use The Driver Recovery Cd(S)
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) The Driver Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual drivers if they become corrupted or are erased. You can reinstall an individual driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with your notebook, hardware, or software application.
Page 113 From the Action menu, click Uninstall. This will remove the device driver from your system. Click OK to confirm this action. Repeat as necessary. Restart your computer. To restart, click Start in the Windows taskbar, Turn Off Computer, and then click Restart. When the Windows desktop reappears, Windows will automatically reinstall the device drivers from the Driver Recovery CD.
Page 114 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Click Performance and Maintenance, then System. The System Properties dialog box appears. From the Hardware tab, click Device Manager. Click to highlight the device for which you wish to reinstall the driver. From the Actions menu, choose Properties.
Page 115: To Use The System Recovery Cd(S)
If you have any questions on using the System Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the optical drive. Shut down your notebook as described in the “Shutting Down Your Notebook” section of your printed Quick Start.
Page 116 Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the notebook. Turn on the notebook. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 117: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony PC Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). Troubleshooting Your Notebook Troubleshooting the LCD Screen Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad...
Page 118: Troubleshooting Your Notebook
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Your Notebook My notebook does not start. Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the notebook indicates that the power is on.
Page 119: My Notebook Starts, But The Message "Operating System Not Found" Appears And Windows Does Not Start
Turn off the notebook. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the notebook. Turn the notebook on again. Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 120: My Notebook Stops Responding Or Does Not Shut Down
Change text in this variable definition to document title. If your notebook continues to display the message “Operating system not found,” and Windows does not start, use your supplied System Recovery CD to restore the software titles shipped with your notebook. See “To use the System Recovery CD(s)”...
Page 121: The Sound Of My Notebook's Fan Is Too Loud
Restart the notebook by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously and then selecting Restart from the drop-down list. If this procedure does not work, press and hold the power button for four seconds or longer to shut down the notebook. The sound of my notebook’s fan is too loud. Use the PowerPanel utility to change the Thermal Control Strategy setting to Quiet.
Page 122: Troubleshooting The Lcd Screen
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the LCD Screen My LCD screen is blank. Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the notebook is on. Check that the battery pack is inserted properly and that it is charged.
Page 123: Troubleshooting The Mouse And Touchpad
See “Connecting a PS/2 External Mouse or Keyboard” for more information. If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series, check that the mouse is plugged into the USB port. If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Driver Recovery CD to reinstall the mouse drivers.
Page 124: The Pointer Does Not Move While Using The Touchpad Or Mouse
Change text in this variable definition to document title. The pointer does not move while using the Touchpad or Mouse. Press the Windows key and use the arrow keys to select Shut Down. When the Shut Down Windows dialog box appears, press Enter. If you cannot turn off your notebook as described in the step above, press Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously and then click Shut Down on the Windows®...
Page 125: Troubleshooting Drives, Pc Cards And Peripheral Devices
Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive (optional) cannot write to a floppy disk. Check that the optional, external floppy disk drive is properly connected to your notebook. See “Connecting an External Floppy Disk Drive” for more information.
Page 126: My Optical Drive Tray Does Not Open
Check that any necessary drivers were installed properly. See “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information on installing the drivers. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connec- tion. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 127: Troubleshooting Software
Troubleshooting Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. Refer to “Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs” for more information. When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application CD into your optical drive”...
Page 128: Troubleshooting The Modem
Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. Check that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Driver Recovery CD to reinstall the modem drivers.
Page 129: Troubleshooting Audio
Troubleshooting Audio My speakers make no sound. If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 to turn on the speakers. You can also turn on the speakers using the center Jog Dial™ control. If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, and then press to increase the volume or you can use the center Jog Dial control to adjust the volume.
Page 130: Troubleshooting The Printer
The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode. In Sony Notebook Setup, select the Printer tab. If the printer port mode is set to ECP, change it to bi-directional.
Page 131: Troubleshooting I.link Devices
(Standby or Hibernate). If that happens, restart the computers to establish a connection. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 132 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 133: Getting Help
Getting Help Sony provides you with several support resources to answer questions about your VAIO® notebook or the preinstalled software. Refer to these resources in the order they are listed.
Page 134: Support Options
You can find VAIO Support Agent by clicking the Start button and then selecting Help and Support. Using advanced diagnostic technology, Sony’s VAIO Support Agent runs scheduled protections of your applications, network settings, and other important software settings. When your software is protected, you can use VAIO Support Agent to repair software problems by restoring your software to any of the previously protected states.
Page 135 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). Sony Customer Support Software support is available free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. You can call and speak with a Sony Customer Support Representative without using your notebook by calling: 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972).
Page 136: Software Support Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Support Information Adobe® Acrobat Reader™, eBook Reader, Photoshop Elements®, Premiere LE® (Adobe Systems, Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) 206-628-5737 e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M-F, 6 AM - 5 PM (PT) America Online®...
Page 137: Sony Service Center
888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. Windows® Operating System, Word (Microsoft Corporation) Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport/ phone...
Page 138 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 139: Index
Index About This Computer tab AC Profile power setting Access Point, Wireless LAN adding hardware memory peripherals 66–67 printers Alt key Application Recovery CD Applications key attaching port replicator audio connecting connecting external speakers external microphone troubleshooting Audio tab audio-video (AV) connecting Basic/Advanced tab Battery Information toolbar...
Page 140 Change text in this variable definition to document title. i.LINK device Local Area Network (LAN) microphone monitor multimedia computer display multiple phone lines network party phone lines phone line port replicator 66–67 printer projector PS/2 keyboard PS/2 mouse TV/VCR USB device weight saver correction keys Ctrl key...
Page 141 help 18, 46 Hibernate mode i.LINK connecting VAIO Action Setup IEEE-1394 indicator lights 15, 41 battery Caps Lock hard disk Num Lock Scroll Lock 15–16 indicators Insert key installing hard drives hardware memory module peripherals Jog Dial using VAIO Action Setup keyboard 14, 17 key combinations...
Page 142 Change text in this variable definition to document title. navigation keys network connecting Notebook Setup tabs Num Lock indicator light operator keys optical disc drive closing tray opening tray optical discs ejecting optical drive using optical drive tray troubleshooting output devices 66–67 adding party phone lines...
Page 143 Touchpad tab setup tabs Shift key Smart Connect software changing window design Smart Connect support information troubleshooting Software list Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Notebook Setup screen Sony Service Center speakers external switching troubleshooting volume Standby mode support software support, technical...
Page 144 Using the Jog Dial Control VAIO help VAIO Action Setup video camera viewing the amount of memory volume control weight saver attaching connecting removing using window design of Sony software Windows Explorer Find window key combinations taskbar Wireless LAN Access Point...

Sony VAIO PCG-GR250 User Manual

Welcome

Using Your VAIO Notebook

Using Memory Stick Media

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Customizing Your VAIO Notebook

Adding Memory

About the Software on Your Notebook

Troubleshooting

Getting Help

Index

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for Sony VAIO PCG-GR250

Summary of Contents for Sony VAIO PCG-GR250

Table of Contents