Sony VAIO PCG-R505JEK User Manual

Sony vaio pcg-r505jek: user guide
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Welcome.......................................................7
Using Your VAIO Notebook........................9
Using the Keyboard.....................................................9
The notebook keyboard keys .............................................11
Indicators ...........................................................................13
Indicator lights ...................................................................13
Using the Touchpad ..................................................17
Using PC Cards .........................................................19
Connecting VAIO Computers ...................................22
23
VAIO Action Setup ...................................................25
Using the Center Jog Dial Control ............................26
Using the center Jog Dial control ......................................26
Launcher mode ..................................................................27
Guide Mode .......................................................................28
Using Memory Stick Media ......................................30
Types of Memory Stick media...........................................30
Write-protecting a Memory Stick media ...........................32
Formatting a Memory Stick media ....................................32
Notes on Memory Stick media ..........................................33
Cautions on Memory Stick media .....................................33
Using Power Saving Modes ......................................35
Normal mode .....................................................................35
Standby mode ....................................................................35
Hibernate mode..................................................................35
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Summary of Contents for Sony VAIO PCG-R505JEK

  • Page 1: Table Of Contents

    Using the center Jog Dial control ...26 Launcher mode ...27 Guide Mode ...28 Using the center Jog Dial control with Sony software ...28 Using the center Jog Dial control with other software ...29 Using Memory Stick Media ...30 Types of Memory Stick media...30 Write-protecting a Memory Stick media ...32...
  • Page 2 Connecting a USB Device ... 62 To connect a USB device... 62 Connecting External Speakers ... 64 Connecting an External Microphone ... 65 Customizing Your VAIO Notebook ...67 Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ... 67 Sony Notebook Setup tabs ... 69...
  • Page 3 To activate the battery information toolbar ...75 Battery icon descriptions ...75 Displaying detailed battery information ...76 Selecting the Display Mode ...78 Changing the window design of Sony software ...80 Adding Memory ...81 Precautions and Procedures...81 Installing a Memory Module...83 Removing a Memory Module ...87 About the Software on Your Notebook ...89...
  • Page 4 Change text in this variable definition to document title. OpenMG Jukebox ... 100 Electronic Music Distribution (EMD) services ... 100 To start OpenMG Jukebox 2.0... 101 To record a CD... 102 To transfer songs (check-in/check-out)... 103 Additional OpenMG Jukebox features ... 105 Notes on using Portable Players...
  • Page 5 Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad ...136 Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards, and Peripheral De- vices...137 Troubleshooting the Software ...139 Troubleshooting the Modem ...140 Troubleshooting Audio ...141 Troubleshooting the Printer...142 Getting Help ...143 Support Options...143 VAIO Support Agent ...145 To use the Quick Fix Wizard ...145 To use Common Solutions...147 To use Support Central ...149 About automatic updates ...153...
  • Page 6 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
  • Page 7: 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 about, and that information will be displayed in the main window.
  • Page 8 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
  • Page 9: 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 PC Cards Connecting VAIO Computers VAIO Action Setup Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using Memory Stick Media Using Power Saving Modes Using a Phone Line Using the LAN Using the Keyboard...
  • Page 10 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Keyboard Print Screen Key Function Keys Correction Keys Backspace Shift Numeric Keypad Area Fn Key Alt Key Navigation Keys Ctrl Key Applications Key Windows Key...
  • Page 11: The Notebook Keyboard Keys

    The notebook keyboard keys Description Numeric keypad The numeric keypad area contains the keys found on a area typical calculator. Use this area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Note the following: To activate the numeric keypad, press the Num Lock key, which causes the Num Lock light to come on and remain on until the numeric keypad is deactivated.
  • Page 12 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Description Operator keys Several keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl, Alt, and Shift. When held down with another key, the Ctrl (Control) and Alt (Alternate) keys offer another way to give commands.
  • Page 13: Indicators

    Indicators Indicator Function Power Light is green when the notebook is powered on, flashes amber when the notebook is in Standby mode, and turns off when the notebook is in Hibernate mode or is powered off. Battery Indicates the status of the battery, which is attached at the rear of the notebook.
  • Page 14: The Windows Key In Combination With Other Keys

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Light Num Lock The number keys in the numeric keypad are active. Caps Lock Letters appear in uppercase as you type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on.
  • Page 15: The Fn Key In Combination With Other Keys

    Combination Function Shift + Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of selecting Run from the Start menu. Fn + Displays the Properties window. This is the equivalent of Insert clicking the System icon in the Control Panel. The Fn key in combination with other keys Combination/ Feature...
  • Page 16 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combination/ Feature Functions Toggles through the LCD and external display. (F7) Switch to the external display (F12) Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When Hibernate you execute this command, the state of the system and state of the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk and the system power is turned off.
  • Page 17: 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 Touchpad Actions Descriptions Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object.
  • Page 18 Change text in this variable definition to document title. See Mouse Properties for information on touchpad features, such as clicking both buttons simultaneously, adjusting touchpad speed, and Easy Launcher functions. To access Mouse Properties, press the Start button, select Settings, and then select Control Panel.
  • Page 19: Using Pc Cards

    CardBus. 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. Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.
  • Page 20 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Note the following: Do not force a card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are inserting the card with the correct orientation.
  • Page 21 Gently grasp the card and pull it out. Do not choose a USB disk or a Sony i.LINK optical drive in the Stop a Hardware device dialog box. If you removed a Sony i.LINK optical drive by mistake, disconnect the docking station and reconnect it.
  • Page 22: Connecting Vaio Computers

    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 only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper- ating system, and i.LINK-compatible devices.
  • Page 23: If Your Notebook Is Connected To The Optional Docking Station

    If your notebook is connected to the optional docking station If you want to exchange data with another computer using the optional i.LINK cable and your notebook is connected to the docking station, perform the following: Disconnect your notebook from the docking station as described in the “Disconnecting the notebook from the docking station”...
  • Page 24 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Set the i.LINK network switch to the unmarked side.
  • Page 25: Vaio Action Setup

    VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your notebook’s center Jog Dial™ control, Memory Stick® media, and i.LINK® interface. An overview of some of the functions controlled by VAIO Action Setup is provided below. For more information on changing the settings using VAIO Action Setup, right-click the Jog Dial Utility icon in the task tray and click Help Topics.
  • Page 26: 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 touchpad and between 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 27: Launcher Mode

    Using the Center Jog Dial Control Launcher mode The 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 window and it is displayed between orange bars, you can press the center Jog Dial control to view a submenu of that item.
  • Page 28: Guide Mode

    The Jog Dial control window displays the function of 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 online Help.
  • Page 29: Using The Center Jog Dial Control With Other Software

    Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using the center Jog Dial control with other software If the software you are using does not support the center Jog Dial control, you can still use the center Jog Dial control to scroll the window or adjust the window size.
  • Page 30: 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 31 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media in until it clicks in place. Inserting Memory Stick Media Insert Memory Stick media with arrow facing forward. Memory Stick media At the default setting, Visual Flow™ application starts automatically when you insert a Memory Stick media.
  • Page 32: Write-Protecting A Memory Stick Media

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Write-protecting a Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab to the right or left to set or release write-protection.
  • Page 33: Notes On 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 34 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Do not allow the media to get wet. Do not use or store the media in a location that is subject to: Extremely high temperatures, such as in a car parked in the sun Direct sunlight High humidity or places with corrosive substances To prolong the life of the media, use the supplied storage case.
  • Page 35: Using Power Saving Modes

    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 36 Change text in this variable definition to document title. The “Save to Disk Manager” window appears, and then the notebook enters Hibernate mode. Do not move the notebook until its power indicator light turns off. To return to Normal mode To return to normal mode, turn on the notebook by pressing the power button.
  • Page 37: Using A Phone Line

    Internet, and Sony Customer Support. In order to register your Sony VAIO® notebook, register your software online, and use Sony Customer Support, you must connect the notebook to a phone line. Gently peel back the rubber phone jack cover. Pulling the phone jack cover too hard could damage it.
  • Page 38: Using The Lan

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the 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, please ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line.
  • Page 39: Connecting Peripheral Devices

    Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your notebook by connecting it to a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: Connecting the Optional Docking Station Connecting the Floppy Disk Drive Connecting an Optical Drive Connecting a Printer Connecting an i.LINK Device Connecting an External Display Connecting a USB Device...
  • Page 40 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Back Panel USB ports Monitor port Serial port DC In port Left Left lever Air vent Ethernet port (10BaseT/100Base-TX) ® i.LINK* S400 port Printer port Floppy disk drive (IEEE 1394)
  • Page 41: Connecting The Notebook To The Docking Station

    Right Optical drive UNDOCK switch Connecting the notebook to the docking station You may connect your notebook to the docking station as long as it is not in power saving mode, i.e., Standby or Hibernate. Connecting the notebook while it is in power saving mode may result in data loss or a computer malfunction.
  • Page 42: Disconnecting The Notebook From The Docking Station

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Latching the Notebook to the Docking Station Latches Protruding from Docking Station Firmly press with your thumbs the two rear corners of the notebook, until your notebook clicks in place and is securely fastened to the docking station. Be careful not to press the top of the notebook too strongly;...
  • Page 43 Disconnecting the docking station when the notebook is off. Disconnecting the docking station when the notebook is on. Beware of the following to ensure proper operation of your notebook: Do not disconnect the notebook from the docking station while the docking indicator is on.
  • Page 44 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Pull out the two release levers on either side of the rear corners of the docking station, to release the notebook from the docking station. Releasing the Notebook from the Docking Station Pull release levers on either side of rear corners of docking station Remove the notebook from the docking station, while moving the notebook...
  • Page 45 From the Start menu Click the Start menu in the Windows task tray. Select Eject PC to access the “Undock Complete” dialog box. Wait for the docking indicator light to switch off before undocking the notebook. Once the “Undock Complete” dialog box appears, continue on to step 3 to finish undocking the notebook.
  • Page 46 Change text in this variable definition to document title. UNDOCK switch Release and remove your notebook as described in the “Disconnecting the docking station when the notebook is off” section. UNDOCK Switch...
  • Page 47: Connecting The Floppy Disk Drive

    Connecting the Floppy Disk Drive You can use the floppy disk drive in the optional docking station. If you do not utilize the docking station drive, you can connect an optional PCGA-UFD5 floppy disk drive to one of the two USB ports Do not use an optional PCGA-UFD5 floppy disk drive while your notebook is connected to the docking station.
  • Page 48 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Removing Floppy Disk Notes on handling floppy disks Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets. Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. Eject Button...
  • Page 49: Connecting An Optical Drive

    Connecting an Optical Drive You may use the optional PCGA-DSD5 CD-RW/DVD Docking Station or PCGA-DSD5 DVD Docking Station with your notebook. Both Sony optional docking stations come with a built-in optical drive. If you do not utilize the docking station drive, you can connect an optional optical drive, such as PCGA- CD51/A, to the PCMCIA PC Card slot.
  • Page 50: Playing A Dvd

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Inserting Disc Close the tray by pushing it gently. The BUSY indicator on the drive flashes while your notebook reads data from the disc. When the notebook is in power saving mode, the tray will not open. Playing a DVD To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, it is recommended that you close all open applications before playing a DVD movie.
  • Page 51: Handling And Cleaning Cd And Dvd Media

    Note the following for playing a DVD: Do not switch between LCD and external display while playing a DVD video. Do not put your notebook into power saving mode while playing a DVD video. Do not install the software that comes with DVD51/A drive. Some DVD videos may allow limited operations or functions, or present sound noise or dropped frames.
  • Page 52 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Note the following when using an optical drive to write to a CD-R/RW: For optimal writing speed, deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data to a disc. For best results, use CD-Rs that are compatible with 4x speed.
  • Page 53: Connecting A Printer

    Connecting a Printer You can connect a Windows 2000 compatible parallel port printer to the optional docking station. You can also connect a Windows 2000 compatible USB printer to either of your notebook’s two USB ports. Turn off the notebook before connecting peripherals. In normal use, you should turn on the peripherals before turning on your notebook.
  • Page 54 See the manuals that came with your printer for more information on printer installation and operation. Before operating the printer, ensure that the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software is properly set. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen”...
  • Page 55: Connecting An I.link Device

    Stick media slot on your notebook. See “Using Memory Stick Media” for more information on using Memory Stick media. * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper- ating system, and i.LINK-compatible devices.
  • Page 56 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting Digital Video Camera Recorder To DV In/Out To S400 i.LINK i.LINK cable (optional) Digital video camera recorder...
  • Page 57 Note the following: The above figure displays connection to a Sony digital video camera; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. Only Sony digital video cameras and ports labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are compatible i.LINK devices.
  • Page 58: Connecting An External Display

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Display You can connect a computer display (monitor) or projector to your notebook or docking station. To connect a monitor Using the notebook Locate the monitor port on the left side of the notebook. Plug the optional display cable into the monitor port.
  • Page 59: To Connect A Projector

    To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. Using the notebook Locate the monitor port on the left side of the notebook.
  • Page 60 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting projector Using the docking station Locate the monitor port on the rear panel of the docking station. Plug the optional monitor adapter into the monitor port. Plug the audio cable into the green Headphone jack on the right side of the notebook.
  • Page 61 Connecting projector Headphones Note the following: See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and operation. You cannot use the Monitor port on your notebook when the docking station is connected to the notebook. To select a display When you connect an external display to the monitor port, you can press Fn+F7 to toggle the output between the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), the external monitor, or both devices.
  • Page 62: Connecting A Usb Device

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Device You can connect a Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices such as an external mouse, keyboard, speaker, and microphone to your notebook. To connect a USB device Using the notebook Locate a USB port on the notebook.
  • Page 63 Connecting USB Device 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. One USB port supports one USB device.
  • Page 64: Connecting External Speakers

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting External Speakers You can connect external speakers to your notebook to enhance the sound quality of your computer. Note the following when connecting external speakers: Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.
  • Page 65: Connecting An External Microphone

    Connecting an External Microphone You can use an external microphone to enhance the quality of the sound input. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. The microphone should be compliant with the plug-in power microphone. To connect an external microphone Locate the red Microphone jack on the right side of your notebook.
  • Page 66 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
  • Page 67: Customizing Your Vaio Notebook

    Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Controlling Power Management Displaying Battery Information Selecting the Display Mode Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen: Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar. Point to VAIO and click Sony Notebook Setup.
  • Page 68 Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 69: 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. Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Description Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.
  • Page 70: Controlling Power Management

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power settings of your notebook and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your notebook’s battery power.
  • Page 71: Power Management Profiles

    Customizing Power Management settings You can customize power management settings, such as the system timer and the brightness of the screen. To customize a setting: 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 panel.
  • Page 72 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Icon Description Maximum Performance Provides the best system performance while still conserving power. Maximum Battery Life Provides power saving features to give you maximum battery life and good performance. It slows the notebook and puts it into Standby mode after a specified time period.
  • Page 73: Power Management Commands

    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 to optimize power management for your system. Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications.
  • Page 74: Conserving Battery Power

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Icon Description Standby Mode Puts the system into Standby mode, a power management state that saves the state of the system and peripheral devices in memory (RAM). Power consumption reduces to a minimum, and the system remains on.
  • Page 75: Displaying Battery Information

    Displaying Battery Information You can display detailed 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 on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
  • Page 76: 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 task tray to display the Battery Information window. The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.
  • Page 77 Displaying Battery Information Customizing the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system You can customize the Battery Information toolbar to suit your portable computing needs, including modifications to the alarm settings. Refer to PowerPanel help for more information.
  • Page 78: Selecting The Display Mode

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the Intel® video controller, which enables you to select the desired display 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 79 Click the Settings tab, then click the Advanced button to display the Intel® 82815 Graphics Controller Properties dialog box. Intel® 82815 Graphics Controller Properties Screen Click the Intel® 82815 Graphics Technology tab, then click the Graphics Properties button. Click the Driver Configuration tab. Ensure that the Synchronous Display Mode box is selected, then click Apply.
  • Page 80: Changing The Window Design Of Sony Software

    Sony software will match the “UI Design Selector” window. To try another selection, click << or >> then click OK. The UI Design Selector closes and the Sony software window design displays. This feature is available with UI Design Selector-compatible software only.
  • Page 81: Adding Memory

    Installing a Memory Module Removing a Memory Module Precautions and Procedures Sony recommends memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Make sure that you observe the proper safety precautions when you install a memory module in your notebook.
  • Page 82 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage disk drives and other components. Perform the procedures described below only at an ESD workstation. If such a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area, and do not handle materials that produce or hold static electricity (cellophane wrappers, for example).
  • Page 83: Installing A Memory Module

    Installing a Memory Module Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery packs. Wait until the notebook cools down. Then unscrew the two screws with the mark on the bottom of your notebook. Screws on Bottom of Notebook Slide the LCD lock lever and lift the cover.
  • Page 84 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side, then gently turn it over on the touchpad space. Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard. Turning the Keyboard Cable You must remove the existing memory module.
  • Page 85 Note the following: Be careful not to touch the other components on the motherboard. Be sure that both ends of the memory module click into place. Installing the Memory Module Gently replace the keyboard, then press it into your notebook. Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard.
  • Page 86 Change text in this variable definition to document title. 10 Close the notebook cover, then tighten the screws on the bottom of the computer.
  • Page 87: Removing A Memory Module

    Removing a Memory Module Perform steps 1 to 5 in the “Installing a Memory Module” section. Touch a metal object (such as the port panel on the back of your notebook) to discharge static electricity. Remove the memory module. Perform steps 8 and 9 in the “Installing a Memory Module” section. Removing a Memory Module...
  • Page 88 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
  • Page 89: About The Software On Your Notebook

    About the Software on Your Notebook Your VAIO® notebook is ready to help you work, play, learn, and communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section provides you with the following information: Overview Using Your Recovery CDs Software Support Information Overview Adobe Acrobat Reader®...
  • Page 90 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 the click of a mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to share with family and friends.
  • Page 91 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 92 Internet. This custom RealJukebox for Sony allows seamless check-out capabilities to a wide range of Sony personal audio devices, and offers convenient links to Sony products and music service home pages.
  • Page 93 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 notebook 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 94 Change text in this variable definition to document title. VisualFlow™ Sony Electronics Inc. VisualFlow is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick media. It displays any still pictures, movie, or sound files stored in a Memory Stick media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner.
  • Page 95: Dvgate

    To install the plug-in for Adobe Premiere® 5.1 and 5.1LE, proceed as follows: Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select Run. Click Browse and, from your C: drive, select Program Files, and Sony, and Dvgate, and Premiere Plug-in, and then 5.1.
  • Page 96 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Click Browse and, from your C: drive, select Program Files, and Sony, and Dvgate, and Premiere Plug-in, and then 6.0. Select “Setup.exe” and click Open. Then click OK to install the plug-in.
  • Page 97: Movieshaker

    MovieShaker This application can be used to create fun and innovative movies without any knowledge of film editing. In a few simple steps, motion pictures can be combined with special effects, still images (pictures), and music files and then saved in a format most computers can play. Main Window Clip tray Product tray...
  • Page 98: Editing Clips And Scenes

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Shaker Tray Click . A 30-second scene is automatically generated and saved to the Product tray. To preview, switch the Work Panel to Product tray mode and press play. Scenes created with Shaker begin with black frame and after processing are placed in the first available slot on the Product tray.
  • Page 99: Saving A Movie

    Double-click the clip or scene to move it to the Working Panel. Select the Effects tab from the Editing tray. Drag and drop the Effect you want to add from the Effects tray to the Effects palette on the Working Panel. To preview an Effect, click on the clip in the Working panel monitor.
  • Page 100: Openmg Jukebox

    EMD services. An EMD service provider. Consult the provider for details regarding service. To protect your personal data, Sony uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), an encryption protocol for communication between your browser and Sony’s World Wide Web (WWW) server. If you are accessing the Internet from an enterprise Local Area Network (LAN), you may not be able to use SSL due to the proxy server of the LAN.
  • Page 101: To Start Openmg Jukebox 2.0

    To start OpenMG Jukebox 2.0 From the Start button on the Windows taskbar, select Programs, OpenMG Jukebox, and then click on OpenMG Jukebox. The CDDB Recognition Service Registration wizard appears. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete registration. To register with CDDB, you will need Internet access from your notebook. For more information regarding CDDB registration, click the Help button.
  • Page 102: To Record A Cd

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Menu bar Displays OpenMG Jukebox menus. Screen Tabs Change the operational sheet view according to function. Player control buttons Control playback (play, stop, pause, etc.). File Tree view Displays the folders on your notebook.
  • Page 103: To Transfer Songs (Check-In/Check-Out)

    CD tab screen To select certain tracks from your CD, uncheck any unwanted tracks. You can also click the empty checkbox next to Select All (clears all checkboxes), and then select the desired tracks. Click Rec to Jukebox to begin recording. When the recording is finished, the new playlist appears in the File Tree view of the Playlist screen tab.
  • Page 104 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Check-out Connect the external device/media to your notebook. Click the Check-in/Out tab to display the Check-in/Out screen. Your notebook recognizes the connected external device/media and lists the information on the right side of the screen. Check-In/Out tab screen Select the Playlist containing the song that you want to check out.
  • Page 105: Additional Openmg Jukebox Features

    Check-in You can only check-in songs recorded on external devices/media to the hard drive of the same notebook from which the songs were checked out. Connect the external device/media to your notebook. Click on the Check-in/Out tab to display the Check-in/Out screen. Your notebook recognizes the connected external device/media and lists the information on the right side of the screen.
  • Page 106: Notes On Using Portable Players

    OpenMG Jukebox version 2.0 for VAIO computers may generate malfunctions. To connect your Portable Player to your VAIO for OpenMG Jukebox version 2.0. For details, refer to Sony Walkman Support on the Web at http://www.sony.com/walkmanproductsupport. Due to the incompatibility between Windows 2000 Professional software and NW- MS7 Portable Player hardware, connecting a NW-MS7 Portable Player to your VAIO notebook is not possible.
  • Page 107: Picturegear

    PictureGear PictureGear software is a digital image management application that allows you to see all the images stored in any directory on your notebook. Thumbnail views provide quick reminders of your pictures. Brighten, contrast, enhance, resize, crop, and color-correct your pictures. Create panoramic views, animations, screen savers, wallpaper, still pictures from MPEG, and even html photo albums.
  • Page 108: Making Still Images And Panoramic From Mpeg

    Gather the source images into the same folder or collection. Select the images you want to use. Sony recommends using 12 landscaped or 16 portrait pictures. From the Utilities menu select Panorama Maker. Select the correct lens and click OK. (If 35mm lens is selected, the prompt does not appear;...
  • Page 109: Smart Capture

    Displays the current mode (Still or Net Movie). * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper- ating system, and i.LINK-compatible devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
  • Page 110: Using Still Mode

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Mode dial Switches Smart Capture from Still mode to Net Movie mode with a single click of your mouse. Options button Displays the configuration options available for either Still or Net Movie mode.
  • Page 111 Still Image Options window The Still Image Options window has four tabs: Capturing Mode — You can choose between Normal, Self-timer or Panorama Capture modes. Image Size — Select the image size, horizontal by vertical in pixels. Image Quality — Set the quality of your pictures as they are being saved by selecting Fine, Standard or Economy image quality.
  • Page 112 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Effect Setting window You can use a different special effect for each picture, or you can remove all special effects by clicking on the No Effects button. Capturing a picture in Still mode Use your digital camera or camcorder to locate the image you want to capture.
  • Page 113 on the Capture button. The Still Viewer window appears. You can capture one picture or several pictures at a time. Still Viewer window Click on the arrows or drag the scroll bar to view the pictures. As each image is captured, it displays in the Still Viewer window with a balloon for your comments and an identifying number in the viewer’s queue.
  • Page 114: Using Net Movie Mode

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. Save — Click on the Save button to save your still image in a variety of formats, to a location of your choice. You must be connected to the Internet before attempting to upload or e-mail your still images or videos.
  • Page 115 Format — You can adjust the compression rate for your movies in MPEG1 format or choose the AVI option for no compression. You can also set the maximum recording time for your movie capture. Destination — Select a file destination for your movies when recording video clips.
  • Page 116 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Movie Player window You can review your movie from the Movie Player window by using the play, pause and stop buttons. Click on the arrows or drag the scroll bar to view your movie.
  • Page 117: Using Imagestation

    ImageStation Login window appears. See steps 2 to 4 in the next section, “Uploading with Still Viewer,” for further uploading information. Sony recommends that your movie file size not exceed 254 MB if compressed, or 2 GB if not compressed. Large movie files take longer to upload to the ImageStation Web site.
  • Page 118 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Uploading with Still Viewer Click on the Upload button in Still Viewer. The ImageStation Login window appears. ImageStation Login window For first time users, the ImageStation registration wizard guides you through the initial registration process.
  • Page 119 Smart Capture The ImageStation preview feature is available when you upload two or more pictures or a movie. No preview is shown if a single picture is being uploaded. Go to http://www.imagestation.com to view your uploaded pictures or movies. Follow the onscreen instructions to access your ImageStation account.
  • Page 120: Visualflow

    Change text in this variable definition to document title. VisualFlow VisualFlow software is a Sony state-of-the-art multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick media. It displays any still picture, movie, or sound files stored in a Memory Stick media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner.
  • Page 121: Application, Driver, And System Recovery Cds

    Your notebook comes with the following application, driver, and system recovery CDs. (See “Using Your Recovery CDs” for information on how to use your recovery CD(s).) Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or erased. Driver Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
  • Page 122: Using Your Recovery Cds

    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. To use the Application Recovery CD(s) Turn on your notebook. If your notebook is already on, close all applications.
  • Page 123: Using The Driver Recovery Cd(S)

    Using the Driver Recovery CD(s) The Driver Recovery CD utility allows you to reinstall individual drivers and repair software applications if they become corrupted or are accidentally erased. You can reinstall an individual driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with your computer, hardware, or software application.
  • Page 124 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 125: Recovering Microsoft Word

    Press the arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes) and then press the Enter key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears. Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key. The notebook restarts from the Recovery CD. Your system may include one or two System Recovery CDs.
  • Page 126: Software Support Information

    7 days a week, 24 hours a day CompuServe® 2000 Web site http://www.compuserve.com telephone 800-848-8990 Drag’n Drop CD® Web site http://www.easy.co.jp/dde/sony/tosupportne.html Netscape Communicator® Web site http://www.netscape.com telephone 888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Norton AntiVirus™...
  • Page 127 206-674-2681 206-674-3586 e-mail http://service.real.com (online form) hours M-F, 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. Pacific time Sony Applications Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport telephone 888-4SONYPC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.
  • Page 128 Change text in this variable definition to document title. WinDVD™ 2000 Web site http://www.intervideo.com/jsp/Support.jsp e-mail support@intervideo.com Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972) or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
  • Page 129: 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). Consult the following sections: Troubleshooting Your Notebook Troubleshooting the Docking Station...
  • Page 130 Select Exit (Save Changes), then press Enter. The message “Save Configuration changes and exit now?” appears. Select Yes, then press Enter. The notebook restarts. If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony PC Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport/). to select Get Default Values. The...
  • Page 131 Turn off the notebook. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the notebook. Turn on the notebook. Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears, to access the BIOS setup menu. Press the directional arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
  • Page 132 Change text in this variable definition to document title. My notebook stops responding or does not shut down. It is best to use the Shut Down command on the Windows Start menu to shut down your notebook. Using other methods, including those listed below, may result in loss of unsaved data.
  • Page 133: Troubleshooting The Docking Station

    Troubleshooting the Docking Station I cannot operate the optical drive in the docking station, when the docking station is connected to the notebook. Follow these steps to set the i.LINK network switch. Disconnect your notebook from the docking station. Disconnect the AC adapter and all cables from your docking station. Set the i.LINK network switch on the bottom of the docking station to the unmarked side, with a thin pen tip.
  • Page 134 Change text in this variable definition to document title. The disc tray does not eject even after I press the Eject button. Open the tray by inserting a sharp, pointed object (such as a paper clip) in the manual eject hole.
  • Page 135: Troubleshooting The Lcd Screen

    Troubleshooting the LCD Screen My LCD screen is blank. Verify that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned Verify that the power indicator on the notebook is on. Verify that the battery pack(s) is inserted properly and is charged. The notebook may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode.
  • Page 136: Troubleshooting The Mouse And Touchpad

    If you are using an external mouse, verify that the mouse is plugged into the mouse connector. See “Connecting a USB Device” for more information. If you are using an optional Sony USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 series, verify that the mouse is plugged into the USB port.
  • Page 137: 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 can not write to a floppy disk. If the floppy disk is write-protected, disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not write-protected. Verify that the floppy disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.
  • Page 138 Ensure that all other devises are properly connected. Restart your notebook. My PC Card does not work. Make sure the PC Card is compatible with Microsoft® Windows®. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using.
  • Page 139: Troubleshooting The Software

    I hear background “noise” while using Windows Media Player to play my music CDs. Sony suggests using the preinstalled Media Bar software to play audio CDs. The application cannot find a file while a PC Card is inserted. Some PC Cards when inserted in a notebook that is connected to the docking station may change the drive letters of the disk drives in the docking station.
  • Page 140: Troubleshooting The Modem

    Verify that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. Verify that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) My modem connection is slow. Your notebook is equipped with a V.90/K56flex-compatible modem. Many...
  • Page 141: Troubleshooting Audio

    Troubleshooting Audio My speakers have no sound. If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 or use the Jog Dial control to turn on the speakers. If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, then press to increase the volume, or you can use the Jog Dial control to control the volume.
  • Page 142: 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 the Sony Notebook Setup screen, select the Printer tab. If the printer port mode is set to ECP, change it to bi-directional;...
  • Page 143: Getting Help

    Getting Help Sony provides you with several support options to answer questions about your VAIO notebook or the preinstalled software. Refer to these resources in the order they are listed. Support Options VAIO® User Guide and VAIO® Quick Start The online VAIO® User Guide and printed VAIO® Quick Start provide you with information on how to maximize your notebook capabilities and solve common problems.
  • Page 144 To contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call: 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972). Calling Sony Customer Support Sony provides software support free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. You can speak with a Sony Customer Support Representative without using your notebook by calling:...
  • Page 145: Vaio Support Agent

    These diagnostics protect and store information in a retrievable format that enables you to restore your software to a previous working state. Sony has identified the software items that are protected by the VAIO Support Agent utility.
  • Page 146 Change text in this variable definition to document title. retrieve the date/time (snapshot) that was recorded when the application worked correctly. The Quick Fix Wizard repairs the protected application files without altering the data files you have created using the application. To use the Quick Fix Wizard, follow these steps: From the VAIO Support Agent main window, click the Quick Fix Wizard button.
  • Page 147: To Use Common Solutions

    Double-click on the desired category to expand and view available SupportActions. VAIO Support Local Server (C:/program files/support.com...) provides a list of SupportActions available on your notebook’s hard disk drive. VAIO Support Local Server (http://sdcglobal4.sel.sony.com...) provides a list of SupportActions available from the Internet. VAIO Support Agent...
  • Page 148 Common Solutions dialog box (1st level) Connect to the Internet before attempting to view the category, “Vaio Support Local Server (http://sdcglobal4.sel.sony.com...).” This category is unavailable without an Internet connection. Click the resize arrows next to the SupportAction categories to expand or...
  • Page 149: To Use Support Central

    Common Solutions dialog box (2nd level) Select the appropriate SupportAction from the list. Click Run or double-click the desired SupportAction. The available SupportActions are shown in bold type. You cannot undo One-Click Fixes. To use Support Central The Support Central feature uses Internet resources to help you fix your software. Support Central searches the Internet for answers to your questions, additional information from knowledge base systems, and the latest software updates for your protected software.
  • Page 150 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connect to the Internet. From the VAIO Support Agent main window, click Support Central. The Support Central Welcome page appears. You must have Internet access to use Support Central. Support Central: Welcome page Click Enter Portal to begin using Support Central.
  • Page 151 VAIO Support Agent Support Central: Registration page...
  • Page 152 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Support Central: Current Issues page When you log on to Support Central, the Current Issues page displays, enabling you to continue working on your open issues or to close them if you are finished. Support Central has a tracking feature that stores your current issues, enabling you to return and work on them later.
  • Page 153: About Automatic Updates

    About automatic updates The VAIO Support Agent is dormant as a background process. Every 24 hours, the Agent self-activates to contact the Sony Support Server to check for new updates or fixes needed for your system. This updating action only occurs while you are connected to the Internet and when more than 24 hours has passed since the last update.
  • Page 154 Agent Status Update You can choose from four response options: Give the Agent your permission to contact the Sony Support Server for any updates or fixes that are available specifically for your notebook. The Agent continues to prompt you for your permission to retrieve updates.
  • Page 155 window with an explanation and instructions to follow. Others will cause the ambulance icon on your task tray to blink. You should always check the ambulance icon in the task tray after the system checks for updates. If the icon is blinking, double-click the ambulance icon to view the update.
  • Page 156 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
  • Page 157: Index

    Index About This Computer tab AC Profile power setting adjusting brightness Alt key Application Recovery CD Applications key audio troubleshooting Basic/Advanced tab battery pack charge status icons indicator lights power management settings power saving modes BatteryScope utility brightness adjusting built-in speaker volume buttons Start...
  • Page 158 Change text in this variable definition to document title. USB device connectors network Serial port 11, 12 correction keys Ctrl key cursor-movement keys digital video camera recorder diskettes ejecting handling inserting into drive troubleshooting display connecting external connecting projector mode options selecting docking station...
  • Page 159 indicators 11, 12 Insert key inserting diskettes into drive Jog Dial 9–15 keyboard Fn key using Windows key Launcher Mode selecting to display output troubleshooting MagicGate Maximum Battery Life power setting Maximum Performance power setting memory adding Memory Stick card slot Memory Stick media displaying contents microphone...
  • Page 160 Smart Capture software DVGate ImageStation MovieShaker overview PictureGear Smart Capture 71, 74 troubleshooting VisualFlow Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Notebook Setup screen speakers external troubleshooting Start button support VAIO Support Agent Support Central support options switching display monitor System Hibernation mode...
  • Page 161 Memory Stick PC Cards phone line touchpad VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup VAIO Support Agent Support Central VAIO® Action Setup video camera recorder VisualFlow window design of Sony software Windows Explorer Find window Help key combinations taskbar Index...

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