Page 1 Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO computer, and welcome to the online VAIO Computer User Guide. ® ® This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software programs.
Page 2: Powering Your Computer
Powering Your Computer Your VAIO computer comes with a battery and an AC adapter. This chapter explains how to install and use these supplied ® accessories to power your computer. It also describes ways you can efficiently utilize the battery as a power source. ...
Page 3: Using Ac Power
Using AC Power The supplied battery is not charged when you receive your computer. To use your computer immediately, use the supplied AC adapter as the power source. While the computer uses AC power, it automatically charges the battery if it is inserted. Using the Battery for more information on installing and using your battery.
Page 4 Connecting the AC adapter To connect the AC adapter Plug the AC adapter cable into the DC IN port. Connecting the AC Adapter to the Com puter Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. Use only the supplied AC adapter with your computer. Page 4...
Page 5 Turning on the computer To turn on the computer Lift the lid of the computer by sliding the front switch to the right and lifting the lid. You may need to hold the bottom of the computer firmly to lift the lid. Opening the Com puter Slide the power switch to the right until the power indicator turns on.
Page 6: Using The Battery
Using the Battery Your computer, depending on the model you purchased, may come equipped with one battery bay and one multipurpose bay that supports a second battery. If your computer comes with two bays, you can purchase a second rechargeable battery to extend your computing time.
Page 7 Inserting a battery To insert a battery Turn the computer over, and slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position. Align the grooves and tabs on the battery with those on the back of the computer. Inserting a Battery Slide the battery into the computer until it clicks into place.
Page 8 Removing a battery If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery from the computer to avoid damaging the battery. You can remove the battery when the computer is on or off. If the computer is on, connect the AC adapter and exit a power saving mode before you remove the battery. To remove a battery Turn the computer over, and slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position.
Page 9 Locating battery information You can display information for the battery installed in your computer. To view battery information Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and click Control Panel. ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click Power Options. The Power Options Properties window appears.
Page 10 Charging a battery You will need to charge the battery if battery power drops below 10 percent or you have not used the battery for a long time. The lithium-ion battery supplied with your computer may be recharged at any time, whether you wait until the battery is completely or partially discharged.
Page 11 Notes on batteries  Never leave the battery in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as under direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun.  While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern. ...
Page 12 Frequently asked questions How do I know when the battery is charged? To determine the remaining battery charge, see Locating battery information. When is the computer using AC power? When the computer is directly connected to the AC adapter, it uses AC power, even if a battery is installed. When should I recharge the battery? ...
Page 13: Conserving Battery Power
Conserving Battery Power You may use the power saving modes and PowerPanel utility or power schemes to conserve battery power. Conserving battery power may significantly extend your computing time, depending on how you use your computer.  Using power saving modes ...
Page 14 Using power saving modes In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate. Use the Standby and Hibernate power saving modes to override a power profile setting and initiate immediate action.
Page 15 Using PowerPanel utility The PowerPanel utility enables you to select and customize a predefined power management profile to conserve battery life. The following table describes all the predefined power management profiles in PowerPanel. Your computer is set to Maximum Battery Life by default. You can customize the settings for all the following profiles, except the Disable Power Management profile.
Page 16 Do not choose the Automatic Profile Selection when connected to AC power. To select a profile Right-click the CPU icon on the Taskbar Notification area. Select Profiles, and click the profile name on the shortcut menu. The profile settings are implemented instantly. Using PowerPanel utility for descriptions of available profiles.
Page 17 HDD Standby Timer Controls the time it takes the system to turn off power to the hard disk drive when the system is idle. This setting only turns off power to the hard disk drive. i.LINK Port Controls power to the i.LINK port.
Page 18 Frequently asked questions Can my computer enter Hibernate mode while using battery power? Your computer can enter Hibernate mode while using battery power, but some software programs and peripheral devices prevent the system from entering Hibernate mode at all. If you are using a program that prevents the system from entering Hibernate mode, save your data frequently.
Page 19: Internet And Network Connections
Internet and Network Connections  Internet Connections  Network Connections  Connecting Another VAIO Computer Page 19...
Page 20: Internet Connections
Connection Wizard guides you through the process of connecting to the Internet and choosing an Internet service provider (ISP) or setting up an existing account. When you connect to the Internet, you can register your VAIO computer, use online ® services, and gain access to Sony Computing Support.  Setting up a dial-up Internet connection ...
Page 21 Setting up a dial-up Internet connection Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line via a telephone cable (not supplied). Once you set up your telephone cable, you're ready to connect to the Internet. To connect a telephone cable Locate the Modem jack on your computer.
Page 22 Setting up an Ethernet Internet connection Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect an Ethernet cable Locate the Ethernet port on your computer. For location information, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the Setting Up chapter of your printed VAIO Computer Quick Start.
Page 23 Customizing your Internet connection The Internet Properties dialog box enables you to change the way you view the Internet. You can change your home page, fonts, language, and colors. You can also regulate content and set browsing preferences. To open the Internet Properties dialog box Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then Control Panel.
Page 24  Make sure the telephone number the program is dialing is correct.  Make sure the software you are using is compatible with the computer's modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.)  If you are still experiencing problems, use the supplied Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the modem driver software.
Page 25: Network Connections
Network Connections With a Sony computer, you can easily set up or connect to a variety of networks. The New Connection Wizard and Network Setup Wizard make it easy to gain access to remote and local area networks (LANs) using wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connections.
Page 26 Using Ethernet and dial-up connections For setting up local area networks (LANs), Ethernet is a widely installed technology. Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect to a local area network using a telephone or Ethernet cable Connect an Ethernet or telephone cable to your computer.
Page 27 dial-up Internet connection for more information. From the Start menu, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and click New Connection Wizard. Click Next. If you are prompted to the Local Information dialog box, follow the on-screen instructions. Click Connect to the network at my workplace, and then click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Page 28 A wireless local area network (LAN) is a network in which you can connect to a LAN through a wireless (radio) connection. You can opt to purchase a Sony Wireless LAN Access Point to set up a LAN. The wireless LAN access point is designed for building a wireless LAN environment. Because a wireless LAN configuration requires no wiring, you can operate multiple computers more freely than ever before.
Page 29 From the Available wireless networks list, select the name of the network (access point) in which you want to connect. If you do not see the network name, see If the network does not appear in the Available wireless networks list box. If required, type the network key in the Network key box.
Page 30 Type the name of the network (access point) you want to connect to in the Network name (SSID) box. (The name should be no more than 32 ASCII characters.) The following steps are for networks that require a network key. If you do not know the network key or are not sure a network key is required, see the network administrator or the guide that accompanied your access point for more information.
Page 31 Click Advanced. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears. Wireless Network Connection Properties Dialog Box Click Add. The Wireless network properties dialog box appears. Wireless Network Properties Dialog Box Page 31...
Page 32 Type the name of the network you want to connect to in the Network name (SSID) box. (The name should be no more than 32 ASCII characters.) Make sure the Data encryption (WEP enabled) check box is selected. Click to cancel the The key is provided for me automatically check box. Type a network key in the Network key box.
Page 33 To disconnect from a computer-to-computer (ad-hoc) network Click the Wireless Network Connection icon on the taskbar. The Wireless Network Connection dialog box appears. Click Advanced. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears. On the Wireless Network tab, click Advanced. The Advanced dialog box appears. Click to select Any available network (access point preferred), and click Close.
Page 34 Checking your network connection status Whether you have a wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connection, you can check the status of that connection. To check your network connection status Click Start on the taskbar, and click Control Panel, Network and Internet Connections, and Network Connections.
Page 35 Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels. Third-party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices. If you are using a wireless LAN access point, refer to connectivity information contained in your access point instructions.
Page 36: Connecting Another Vaio Computer
N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
Page 37 Connecting VAIO computers When you connect two VAIO computers, you can use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer. You can also print from a printer attached to either computer. To connect VAIO computers Plug one end of the i.LINK cable into the i.LINK port on each computer. Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and click Control Panel.
Page 38 Disconnecting VAIO computers You can disconnect two VAIO computers when the computers are on or off. ® To disconnect VAIO computers when the computers are on Close all open files that are shared with the connected computers. Unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on each computer.
Page 39: Frequently Asked Questions
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Page 40: Cds And Dvds
CDs and DVDs  Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs  Copying and Playing CDs  Playing DVDs Page 40...
Page 41: Inserting And Ejecting Cds Or Dvds
Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CDs or DVDs. Adhesive labels may damage the optical drive if they come off while the disc is in the drive. To insert a disc Turn on the computer or exit a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) if one is active. For more information, Using power saving modes.
Page 42 into the manual eject hole next to the Eject button. Lift the disc from the drive. Push the drive tray gently to close it. Page 42...
Page 43: Copying And Playing Cds
Copying and Playing CDs Your computer comes equipped with a CD-RW/DVD drive, which plays DVD and most DVD-R discs, and reads and writes data to CD-R and CD-RW discs.  Playing CDs  Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R Page 43...
Page 44 Playing CDs Before you play an audio CD, you may need to enable your computer's audio feature. To enable the audio feature Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then click Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, and System. ® The System Properties dialog box appears. As a shortcut, you can press Fn + the Windows key + Insert to open the System Properties dialog box.
Page 45 Page 45...
Page 46 Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R You can copy files to CD-R or CD-RW discs if your VAIO computer is equipped with a CD-RW/DVD drive or DVD-RW drive. ® Before you write data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc, read the following notes to avoid a computer malfunction and ensure the best writing results: ...
Page 47 Follow the instructions on the CD Writing Wizard. CD Writing Wizard Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc. T he read/write drive letter des ignation may vary, depending on your s ys tem's hardware c onfiguration. Page 47...
Page 48: Playing Dvds
Playing DVDs You can play DVDs in your computer's optical drive and view the video on a TV. The type of optical drive installed in or connected to your computer may vary, depending on the model you purchased. Playing DVDs on your computer ...
Page 49 Playing DVDs on your computer Your computer is equipped with an optical drive that enables you to watch DVDs and most DVD-R discs on your computer. To play a DVD while using AC power Close all open programs. Insert the DVD into the optical drive. Open a preinstalled DVD program, such as WinDVD, by following these steps: Click Start on the taskbar, and point to All Programs.
Page 50 Frequently asked questions How do I maintain CDs and DVDs?  Avoid touching the surface of the disc with your fingers. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of the disc may cause reading errors.  Try using canned compressed air to clean dusty discs. ...
Page 51 What do I do if the optical drive isn't playing my CD or DVD properly?  Make sure the disc was inserted into the drive with the label facing up.  Make sure the necessary program(s) is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. ...
Page 52  If the display mode is set to external display, use the Fn+F7 key combination. See Selecting a display for more information. Page 52...
Page 53: Printer Connections
Printer Connections  Printing With Your Computer Page 53...
Page 54: Printing With Your Computer
Printing With Your Computer Your computer is compatible with many popular printers. However, to ensure the best performance, printers must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your computer. ® ®  Connecting a printer  Disconnecting a printer ...
Page 55 Connecting a printer You can connect a universal serial bus (USB) printer or, depending on the model, a parallel port printer to your computer. The New Hardware Wizard enables you to easily install the printer software, but some printers require separate driver software installation.
Page 56 See the guide that accompanied the printer for more information on its installation and use. Page 56...
Page 57 Disconnecting a printer You can disconnect the printer cable when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting a printer when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a printer ...
Page 58  You may need to enable the computer's printer port settings. Click Start, and point to All Programs, Sony Notebook Setup, and click Sony Notebook Setup again. Click the Device tab. If it is not already selected, click to select the Printer Port check box. If it is already selected, click to highlight Printer Port.
Page 59: Computer Features
Computer Features  Using the Touch Pad  Using Memory Stick Media  Using the Multilingual User Interface Language Option  Changing the Window Design of Sony Programs Page 59...
Page 60: Using The Touchpad
Using the Touch Pad A pointing device called a touch pad is located in front of the keyboard. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touch pad.  Describing the touch pad ...
Page 61 Describing the touch pad Locating the Touch Pad Touch Pad Action Description Sliding one finger Equivalent to using a mouse to place the pointer on an item. Tapping once Equivalent to pressing the left button once. Tapping twice Equivalent to pressing the left button twice. Sliding one finger while pressing the left button Equivalent to using the mouse to drag an item.
Page 62 Customizing the touch pad Sony Notebook Setup lets you customize, enable, or disable the touch pad. Open the Mouse Properties dialog box to set your touch pad and mouse preferences, such as changing pointers, enabling or disabling the tapping feature, clicking both buttons simultaneously, and adjusting the touch pad speed.
Page 63 Frequently asked questions What do I do if the touch pad does not work?  Try restarting your computer. Follow these steps: Press the Windows key Press U. The Turn off computer window opens. Press R to restart the computer. ...
Page 64: Using Memory Stick Media
Using Memory Stick Media This compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. Memory Stick ® media 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 65 Selecting Memory Stick media The following two types of Memory Stick media can be used with your computer: ®  MagicGate Memory Stick media (hereafter called MG Memory Stick media), which is provided with copyright protection  Memory Stick media, which does not have the same copyright protection as MagicGate Memory Stick media Some music files with secure copyright protection may be stored on MG Memory Stick media but not on regular Memory Stick media.You can also use MagicGate media-compatible devices to record and playback music when they are connected to your computer.
Page 66 Inserting Memory Stick media Before using Memory Stick media, back up important data. The media slot accommodates only one Memory Stick media at a ® time. 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.
Page 67 ® media. From this window, you can choose to view, print, copy or organize your Memory Stick images or data. If the Sony Memory Stick window does not appear when you insert your Memory Stick media, then follow these steps: To view the contents From the Start menu, click My Computer.
Page 68 Write-protecting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the ® tab to the right or left to set or release write-protection. When the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick media is set to LOCK, data cannot be recorded or erased.
Page 69 From the Start menu, click My Computer. The My Computer window appears. Right-click Sony MemoryStick, and click Format from the menu. The Format Sony MemoryStick dialog box appears. Select Quick Format in the Format options box, and then click Start.
Page 70 Removing Memory Stick media If the Memory Stick media is removed prematurely, a blue screen with a message may appear prompting you to continue or ® exit. Reinsert the media into the slot and press Enter to continue. This enables the media to finish reading or writing data. To remove Memory Stick media Wait a minimum of 10 seconds after the Memory Stick media finishes reading or writing data before removing the media.
Page 71 Using recorded music 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. Can I copy images from a digital video camera using Memory Stick media? Yes, and you can view video clips that you have recorded with Memory Stick media-compatible video camera recorders.
Page 72: Using The Multilingual User Interface Language Option
Using the Multilingual User Interface Language Option (Microsoft Windows XP Professional only) After you have initially setup your new VAIO computer, you can change the ® ® ® language displayed in Microsoft Windows XP Professional operating system. The multilingual user interface (MUI) language ®...
Page 73 Changing Numbers, Currency, Time, and Date Formats You can change your operating system's number, currency, time, and date formats to coordinate with your chosen country or language settings. To change these formats Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then click Control Panel. Click Date, Time, Language and Regional Options, and click Regional and Language Options.
Page 74: Changing The Window Design Of Sony Programs
Click << or >> to view the designs. Click Apply to select a design that appears in the center window. The UI Design Selector window design changes. The window design for your Sony software will match the UI Design Selector window. Click OK.
Page 75 Mice and Keyboards  Using the Keyboard  Connecting External Mice and Keyboards Page 75...
Page 76: Using The Keyboard
Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter's, but your computer keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks.  Key descriptions  Combinations and functions with the Windows key  Indicator Lights  Combinations and functions with the Fn key Page 76...
Page 77 Key descriptions Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations, such as addition and subtraction. Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of the numeric keys.
Page 78 Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function Displays the VAIO Help and Support Center window. +Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays the desktop. Displays the My Computer window. Displays the Search Results window, where you can find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start menu.
Page 79 Indicator Lights Indicator Function Power Turns on when the power to the computer is on, blinks in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is in Hibernate mode or off. Battery Turns on when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery is running out of power, double-blinks when the battery is charging.
Page 80 Combinations and functions with the Fn key Combinations/ Feature Function Fn+F3 Toggles the built-in speakers off and on. Fn+F4 Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. An on-screen display appears notifying you when a change occurs. To increase volume, press Fn+F4 and then press To decrease volume, press Fn+F4 and then press Fn+F5 Adjusts the brightness of the computer screen (LCD).
Page 81 Connecting External Mice and Keyboards Your computer is compatible with many popular mice and keyboards. To function properly, the device you connect must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your computer. For information about your ® ®...
Page 82 Connecting a mouse or keyboard Your computer can be on or off when connecting a universal serial bus (USB) mouse or keyboard. If you connect the mouse or keyboard when the computer is on, you may need to restart the computer for it to recognize the device. See Frequently asked questions for more information.
Page 83 Disconnecting a mouse or keyboard You can disconnect a USB mouse or keyboard when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the mouse or keyboard when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a mouse or keyboard ...
Page 84 Frequently asked questions What do I do if the computer doesn't recognize the mouse?  Make sure the mouse is securely plugged into the port. See Connecting a mouse or keyboard for more information.  Restart the computer with the mouse connected to the computer. ...
Page 85 Floppy Disks, PC Cards, and i.LINK Connections  Using a Floppy Disk Drive  Using PC Cards Page 85...
Page 86: Using A Floppy Disk Drive
Using a Floppy Disk Drive You can connect a floppy disk drive to your computer. The floppy disk drive enables you to read or write data to a floppy disk.  Connecting a floppy disk drive  Inserting and removing floppy disks ...
Page 87 Connecting a floppy disk drive You can connect a floppy disk drive when your computer is on or off. Connecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To connect a USB floppy disk drive Close any active programs to prevent data loss.
Page 88 Inserting and removing floppy disks To write data to a disk, use one that is not write-protected or disable the write-protect feature. The floppy disk drive cannot write data to a disk if it is inserted into the drive improperly. To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label facing up.
Page 89 Protecting floppy disks  Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk.  Keep floppy disks away from magnets, direct sunlight, and heat sources. Page 89...
Page 90 Disconnecting a floppy disk drive You can disconnect a USB floppy disk drive when the computer is on or off by simply disconnecting the USB cable from the computer. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
Page 91 Storing a floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk drive cable and connector into the side compartment on the floppy disk drive. Storing a Floppy Disk Driv e Page 91...
Page 92 Frequently asked questions Why doesn't the Safely Remove Hardware icon appear on the taskbar when the drive is connected? The computer does not recognize the floppy disk drive. First, make sure the USB cable is properly connected to the USB port.
Page 93: Using Pc Cards
Using PC Cards Your computer includes one or more PC Card slots. A PC Card enables you to connect devices such as an optical drive, floppy disk drive, or Network Interface Card (NIC). See your VAIO Computer Specifications for the type of PC Card that is compatible with your computer. These slots are ®...
Page 94 Your computer may contain PC Card slot protectors. Remove these protectors before you insert a PC Card into the slot. To remove slot protectors. Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable these devices.
Page 95 Removing PC Cards You can remove PC Cards while the computer is on or off. PC Cards draw power from the computer when they are inserted into the PC Card slot, whether or not you use the card. If you are not using your PC Card and you are using a battery as a power source, remove the PC Card from the PC Card slot to conserve battery power.
Page 96 The PC Card drive enables you to read data stored on a DVD or CD. Your computer may come with an external PC Card drive, depending on the model you purchased. If you wish to purchase a PC Card drive, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio...
Page 97 Windows operating system installed on your computer. ® ®  Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. See To open Sony Notebook Setup for more information.  See the instructions that accompanied your PC Card. You may need to install driver software if you are not using a Sony PC Card.
Page 98: Port Replicators
Port Replicators  Locating Ports and Jacks  Connecting a Port Replicator  Connecting a Flat-Panel Display  Disconnecting a Port Replicator Page 98...
Page 99 A port replicator is a device that attaches to your notebook and contains additional jacks and ports, such as USB and parallel ports. A port replicator may come with your computer, depending on the model you purchased. If you wish to purchase a port replicator, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 100: Connecting A Port Replicator
Connecting a Port Replicator You can connect a port replicator to the computer while the computer is on or off. Connecting a port replicator while the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may result in data loss or a computer malfunction. Use the AC adapter (not the battery) to power the computer while it is connected to a port replicator.
Page 101 Securing a Port Replicator Make sure the port replicator is securely fastened to the computer. Turn on the computer. Page 101...
Page 102: Connecting A Flat-Panel Display
The port replicator includes a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) port, which enables you to connect your computer to a flat-panel display. To connect to a flat panel display, you must use a DVI-D or DVI-D/I display cable. If you wish to purchase a cable, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 103 Disconnecting a Port Replicator Disconnecting a port replicator when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) or the battery power is low may result in data loss or a computer malfunction. You can disconnect a port replicator when the computer is on or off.
Page 104: Audio And Video Connections
Audio and Video Connections  Using i.LINK Digital-Video Recorders  Using Computer Monitors and Projectors  Using Speakers  Using Microphones Page 104...
Page 105: Using I.link Digital-Video Recorders
N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tor. T he i.LI...
Page 106 Connecting an i.LINK digital video recorder You can connect an i.LINK digital video (DV) recorder when the computer is on or off. Connecting the DV recorder when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. Before you connect an i.LINK digital video recorder ...
Page 107 Disconnecting the i.LINK digital video recorder You can disconnect the digital video recorder while the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on the computer. Disconnecting the cable when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
Page 108 Using a digital video camera recorder Your computer comes with preinstalled driver software that is compatible with most Sony digital video camera recorders. If you purchased a camera that comes with its own driver software, install these drivers before you use the camera.
Page 109 N K is a trademark of Sony us ed only to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
Page 110: Using Computer Monitors And Projectors
Using Computer Monitors and Projectors You can connect an external display (such as a computer monitor or a projector) to your computer.  Connecting a computer monitor  Connecting a projector  Selecting a display  Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector Page 110...
Page 111 Connecting a computer monitor Your computer can display images to the computer screen (LCD), to an external computer monitor, or to both the LCD and external monitor while your computer is on. If you purchased a port replicator, you can connect your computer to a flat-panel display. See Connecting a Flat-Panel Display for more information.
Page 112 Connecting a projector You can use a projector to display the actions and images on the computer screen (LCD). To connect a projector Plug the projector into an AC outlet. Plug the display cable into the Monitor (VGA) port on your computer. To locate the Monitor port, see "Locating Controls and Ports"...
Page 113 Selecting a display You can connect external displays to your computer while it is on. When you connect an external display (projector or computer monitor) to your computer, you can switch the display between the computer screen (LCD), the external display, or both, using shortcut keys or the Display Properties settings.
Page 114 Click the red button on the upper right corner of the display. Click Apply. Click OK. For more information, click Help. If you cannot see your movie or DVD on the external display, change the monitor or TV setting by clicking on the Primary icon on the display panel of your choice.
Page 115 Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector You can disconnect the external computer monitor or projector by unplugging the monitor (VGA) cable from your computer's port. Disconnecting the external display when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
Page 116: Using Speakers
Your computer comes with built-in stereo speakers. If you wish to enhance the sound quality of your computer, you can purchase and connect external speakers. If you want to purchase speakers, make sure the speakers are designed for computer use. You can shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 117 Connecting speakers You can connect speakers to your computer to enhance the sound quality of your computer. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers. The speakers' magnetic field may damage the data stored on the floppy disks. To connect speakers to your computer Turn down the volume of the speakers.
Page 118 Disconnecting speakers You can disconnect external speakers when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the speaker cable from the Headphone jack on the computer. Page 118...
Page 119 Adjusting the volume To adjust the volume for playing CDs and DVDs, use the Volume icon on the Windows taskbar. Adjusting the volume ® for playing CDs or DVDs does not adjust the volume for recording sound files. You can only adjust the recording volume in the Recording Control window. See Using a microphone to record sound for instructions on how to open this window.
Page 120 Enabling the audio feature If you do not hear sound when playing a CD or DVD, you may need to enable the audio feature. To enable the audio feature Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and click Control Panel. ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System.
Page 121 Frequently asked questions Why won't my speakers work?  Make sure the speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up loud enough to hear sound.  Your speakers may not be designed for computer use.  If the speakers have a mute button, set the button to off. ...
Page 122: Using Microphones
Using Microphones You can connect an external microphone to your computer to enhance the sound input to your computer. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. If you wish to purchase a microphone, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 123 Connecting a microphone Plug the microphone cable into the Microphone jack on the computer. Connecting a Microphone See the guide that accompanied your microphone for more information on its installation and use. A protruding dot loc ated next to the M ic rophone jac k dis tinguis hes this jac k from the H eadphone jac k. Page 123...
Page 124 Disconnecting a microphone You can disconnect an external microphone when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the microphone cable from the Microphone jack on the computer. Page 124...
Page 125 Using a microphone to record sound You can record messages, memos, etc. by connecting a microphone to the Microphone jack on your computer. To record from a microphone Double-click the Volume icon on the Windows taskbar. The Volume Control window appears. ®...
Page 126 Frequently asked questions Why doesn't my microphone work? If you are using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is turned on and is properly plugged into the Microphone jack on the computer. See Connecting a microphone for more information. Page 126...
Page 127: Preinstalled Programs
Preinstalled Programs  Programs On Your Computer  DVgate Program Notes  Program Support Information Page 127...
Page 128 Programs On Your Computer Your computer may not be supplied with all of the programs listed in the Programs overview section, depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled programs may not be identical to retail versions or include supporting documentation. ...
Page 129 Experience the Internet up to 100 times faster than dial-up, and enjoy being totally mobile. Click to DVD Sony Electronics Inc. At the touch of a button, Click to DVD software allows you to automatically burn DVDs from a digital video device. Create DVDs by capturing video content straight from a digital video (DV) device or by importing video from stored files —...
Page 130 ® Sony Electronics, Inc. Store, organize and share your photos and video clips with ImageStation Sony's online photo and video sharing service. ® Membership in ImageStation service is free (except for transactions) and includes unlimited storage of digital photos, storage for 15 minutes of video clips, tools to personalize the design and arrangement of your pictures in albums, and access to stories and tips about image handling in ImageStation Magazine.
Page 131 Sony VAIO PC or gain remote control of your system. ® McAfee.com Personal Firewall Plus is an online subscription service offering advanced protection for your Sony VAIO PC and ® your personal data. Personal Firewall Plus establishes a barrier between your Sony VAIO PC and the Internet, silently ®...
Page 132 Network Smart Capture Sony Electronics Inc. Network Smart Capture captures images and video from any Sony Digital Camcorder that supports a standard i.LINK ® connection. Send your video or still images through e-mail or upload them to the ImageStation(SM) service. You can use the Web camera function to automatically upload your captured images.
Page 133 (on computer models that include a CD recording device), and a parametric equalizer for fine-tuning audio playback. Sony on Yahoo! Yahoo! Inc. Personalize your own Web portal with Sony on Yahoo! Get a free Web mail account, customized news and local weather reports, comics, instant messaging, and more. Sony ScreenBlast...
Page 134 VAIO Product Registration is an integrated registration application for both Sony Electronics and Microsoft. By registering to Sony Electronics, the VAIO PC owners become eligible for the extended warranty offered by Sony depending on the machine purchased. Microsoft directs the data to Sony Electronics. Sony uses the registration data for warranty purposes and the analysis of customer feedback on Sony computer features.
Page 135 WordPerfect Office 2002 Corel Corp. WordPerfect Office 2002 software includes all the applications you need to create professional-looking documents, ® newsletters, reports, presentations, and brochures while incorporating graphics, spreadsheets, charts, and tables with ease. This comprehensive suite includes the popular WordPerfect 10 word processor, the Quattro Pro 10 spreadsheet ®...
Page 136 ® computer.  To write audio files to a CD-R or CD-RW, use the Sony SonicStage program preinstalled on your computer. Follow these steps to open Sony SonicStage: Click Start, and then click All Programs. Point to SonicStage, and then click SonicStage from the submenu.
Page 137: Dvgate Program Notes
DVgate Program Notes The DVgate program enables you to connect a compatible digital video camera to your computer's i.LINK port and ® capture video clips and still images. You can edit clips from your video, add new clips, and combine clips into new movie segments.
Page 138 Recording images to a digital video device If your system displays the message, "Failed to record to DV deck, please check deck's power status, cable connection...," while you are recording images to a digital video device using the DVgate program, close all open programs, and restart your computer.
Page 139 Adjusting image resolution If the images on the computer screen (LCD) do not display smoothly, the resolution may not be set correctly. To check the resolution From the DVgate Motion-Monitor window, click Setup. From the shortcut menu, point to Settings, and then select Low Resolution. The settings you change in this menu affect the images in the monitor window only.
Page 140 Saving to your hard disk In order to improve the performance of your computer's DVgate motion program, the hard disk on your computer was formatted with two partitions, C and D. The DVgate program saves files to the D partition. This prevents large video captures from consuming the available space on your C partition.
Page 141: Program Support Information
Program Support Information Your computer may not be supplied with all of the programs listed in the this section, depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled programs may not be identical to retail versions or include supporting documentation. Adobe programs ®...
Page 142 EverQuest ® Web site(s) http://www.everquest.com e-mail eqtech@soe.sony.com phone 858-831-9143 hours M-F, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM PST McAfee programs ® Web site(s) http://www.mcafee.com/support/default.asp phone (900) 733-8255 Phone support is $2.95 per minute. hours 5 AM-11 PM PST Men in Black II: Crossfire Trial version Web site(s) http://www.sonicfoundry.com/support...
Page 143 (online email form) phone 206-674-2680 206-674-3586 hours M-F, 8 AM-6 PM PST Sat-Sun, 7:30 AM-4 PM PST RecordNow Web site http://www.easy.co.jp/jrn45/sony Sony on Yahoo! Web site http://help.yahoo.com/ TurboTax for the Web ® Web site http://www.intuit.com/support phone 900-555-4932; 800-644-3193 hours M-F, 5 AM-5 PM PST Support from 9 0 0 -5 5 5 -4 9 3 2 is fee-bas ed.
Page 144 Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport phone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Support from 1 -8 8 8 -4 -SO N Y -P C is free of c harge for 9 0 days after the original date of purc has e.
Page 145: Memory Upgrades
Memory Upgrades Before you upgrade your computer's memory, make sure you read the safety information in Precautions and procedures. For the type of module and amount of memory installed on your computer, see the Welcome page to view the VAIO ®...
Page 146: Precautions And Procedures
Precautions and procedures Sony recommends that memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, go to: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. The procedures described below assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.
Page 147: Removing And Installing Memory Modules
Removing and installing memory modules Make sure you read the safety information in Precautions and procedures before you remove or install a memory module. When installing a memory module, do not open the module package until you are ready to install it. The package protects the module from Electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Page 148 Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your computer) to discharge static electricity. Avoid touching any part of the motherboard or other components inside the computer. Remove the memory module by pulling out the tabs (see arrows No. 1). Pull out the module in the direction of arrow No.
Page 149: Confirming Added Memory Capacity
All Programs, and then point to Sony Notebook Setup. ® Select Sony Notebook Setup from the submenu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. On the About This Computer tab, make sure the System Memory displayed in the System Information box matches the amount of memory installed.
Page 150: Using The Application Recovery And System Recovery Cds
Using the Application Recovery and System Recovery CDs You can restore your system, individual programs, or drivers, using the Application Recovery and System Recovery CDs.  Application and System Recovery CDs  Using Your Recovery CDs Page 150...
Page 151: Application And System Recovery Cds
CDs. If your computer does not come with an optical drive, use an external optical drive. Application Recovery CDs Sony Electronics Inc. These CDs enable you to reinstall individual programs and device drivers if they become corrupted or are erased.
Page 152: Using Your Recovery Cds
Using Your Recovery CDs The following sections describe how to use the Application Recovery and System Recovery utilities.  Using the Application Recovery CDs  Using the System Recovery CDs Page 152...
Page 153 Insert Application Recovery CD No. 1 into your computer's optical drive. The VAIO welcome window appears. Click OK, then click Quit to close the Sony Application Recovery utility. (Leave the CD in the optical drive.) Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and right-click My Computer.
Page 154 17. Wait 30 seconds, and turn on your computer. If you have any questions about using the Application Recovery CD(s), visit http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. U nknown devic es are identified by a yellow ques tion mark. A devic e that has a driver problem is identified by a yellow exc lamation mark.
Page 155 Press the disc eject button to open the optical disc drive and extend the disc tray. Insert the Sony System Recovery CD No. 1 into the optical drive, and close the drive. The first CD must be in the drive before you restart your computer.
Page 156 Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the computer. Turn on the computer. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS Setup Utility appears. Press the right arrow key to select the Exit menu.
Page 157: Troubleshooting
This section describes how to solve some basic problems you may encounter when using your computer. For more troubleshooting topics refer to the VAIO Computer User Guide. Many problems have simple solutions, so refer to these ® sources before you contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).  Troubleshooting Your Computer (Windows XP) ...
Page 158: Troubleshooting Your Computer (Windows Xp)
Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears again. Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts. If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). What do I do if the message "Operating system not found" appears when my computer starts, and why won't Windows start? ...
Page 159 Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Restart the computer. Press F2 when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS Setup window appears. Press the Right Arrow key to select the Exit menu. Press the Down Arrow key to select Get Default Values.
Page 160 Press R to select restart. If the computer does not restart, follow these steps: Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously. The Windows Task Manager window appears. Press and release Alt to highlight the menu bar, and press the Right Arrow key to select Shut Down.
Page 161: Troubleshooting Your Computer (Windows 2000)
Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears again. Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts. If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). What do I do if the message, "Operating system not found" appears when my computer starts, and why won't Windows start? ...
Page 162 Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Restart the computer. Press F2 when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS Setup window appears. Press the Right Arrow key to select the Exit menu. Press the Down Arrow key to select Get Default Values.
Page 163 Press the Windows key Press U. Press R to select restart. Press Enter. If the computer does not restart, follow these steps: Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously. The Windows Security dialog box appears. Press the Right Arrow key to select Shut Down. Press Enter.
Page 164: Support Options
Sony Computing Support This service provides instant access to information on commonly encountered problems. Type a description of the problem and the Knowledge Database searches for the corresponding solutions online. You can visit Sony Computing Support at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Page 164...

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