Sony PCV-RS310 - Vaio Desktop Computer User Manual

Vaio user guide (primary manual)
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Summary of Contents for Sony PCV-RS310 - Vaio Desktop Computer

  • Page 1 Welcome Thank you for purchasing your Sony VAIO computer! Your new computer is a superb blend of high technology and ® easy-to-use functionality. The information provided here is designed to help you to become familiar with the hardware and software applications included with your system.
  • Page 2: Getting Started

    Getting Started Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia computer combines ® state-of-the-art computer functionality with the latest audio, video and information technology features.  Unpacking Your Computer  Planning An Ergonomic Work Space...
  • Page 3: Unpacking Your Computer

    Unpacking Your Computer Your computer may not be supplied with all of the accessories shown, depending on the system configuration you purchased. For details on the accessories supplied with your computer, see the online Specifications sheet. Com puter and supplied accessories (See the online specifications sheet for details about supplied accessories.) Manuals ...
  • Page 4 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Help and Support. ® From the VAIO Help And Support Center menu, click VAIO Recovery Options. Other Software Library containing the Microsoft software license agreement and Sony end-user license agreement. Page 4...
  • Page 5: Planning An Ergonomic Work Space

    Planning An Ergonomic Work Space Before you set up your new computer, find the best location for your new computer and plan your work space. There are several ergonomic factors to consider when you arrange your work space:  Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral equipment.
  • Page 6: Locating Controls And Ports

    Locating Controls And Ports This section is intended to familiarize you with the controls, ports and jacks on your computer. Your computer may not be equipped with all of these hardware features and the location of the controls, ports, and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown in this section.
  • Page 7: About The Front Panel

    About the Front Panel The front panel of your VAIO Computer enables access to the optical and floppy disk drives. It also includes access to the ® Universal Serial Bus (USB) and i.LINK ports that enable you to connect compatible peripheral devices. ®...
  • Page 8 Connection for a compatible digital device. Optical drive 1 eject button Ejects a disc from Optical drive 1. Optical drive 2 eject button Ejects a disc from Optical drive 2. Floppy disk eject button Ejects a floppy disk. Power indicator (VAIO) Light is blue when the computer is on.
  • Page 9: About The Back Panel

    About the Back Panel The back panel of your computer contains the ports for supplied and optional accessories. The icons on the back panel locate and identify the ports and jacks on your computer. Your system may vary based on the configuration you purchased. Back panel (PCV- RS320 series m odel) AC Input port Connection for the supplied power cord.
  • Page 10 i.LINK 6-pin S400 port (IEEE 1394) Connection for a compatible digital device. Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) ports (4) Connections for compatible high/full/low-speed USB devices. Microphone jack Connection for a microphone (optional). Headphones jack Connection for the supplied speakers or optional headphones. Line In jack Connection for an audio device.
  • Page 11 Connection for a standard display. O n s ome models , this monitor port may have a c over and is not available for us e. A DV I monitor port is available on s elec ted models only. T he s peaker DC out jac k is us ed to provide power to audio s tereo s peakers . A udio s tereo s peakers whic h require a s peaker power c able may be purc has ed s eparately.
  • Page 12 Connection for the modem cable to the wall jack. 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, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
  • Page 13: About The Keyboard

    About the Keyboard Your VAIO keyboard uses a standard key arrangement with additional keys that perform specific functions. ® VAIO Keyboard DESCRIPTION Function The 12 function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform certain tasks. The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next.
  • Page 14 arrow and correction keys on the numeric keypad area are active. Caps Lock The Caps Lock indicator lights up to advise you that the keyboard is set to type letters in uppercase. When the indicator is off, the letters appear in lower case as you type. Scroll Lock The Scroll Lock indicator lights up to advise you that your screen's scrolling pattern has changed.
  • Page 15: Setting Up Your Computer

    Setting Up Your Computer Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features described in the section. The location of the controls, ports, and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown. See the online specifications sheet for your system's specific hardware configuration.
  • Page 16: Connecting A Display (Monitor)

    Connecting a Display (Monitor) Plug the display's cable into the monitor port. If necessary, plug the display's cable into the back of the display. To connect a display (PCV- RS310 series m odel) Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency. Page 16...
  • Page 17: Connecting The Speakers

    Connecting the Speakers The right and left speakers are attached. The right speaker has a speaker wire that ends in a jack connector and an AC power cord that supplies power to both speakers. From the right speaker, plug the jack connector into the Headphones jack located on the back panel of your computer.
  • Page 18: Connecting The Keyboard And Mouse

    Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse Plug the keyboard cable into the keyboard port on the back of the computer. Plug the mouse cable into the mouse port on the back of the computer. To connect the keyboard and m ouse (PCV- RS310 series m odel) To use an optical mouse An optical mouse requires an ideal surface texture in order to provide precision pointing and tracking.
  • Page 19: Connecting The Telephone And Modem Cables

    Connecting the Telephone and Modem Cables Unplug your telephone from the wall jack and plug its cable into the telephone jack located on the back panel of your computer. Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the modem line jack located on the back panel of your computer Plug the other end of the modem cable into the wall jack.
  • Page 20: Connecting The Power Cords

    Connecting the Power Cords Plug the power cord connector into the AC Input port, located on the back panel of the computer. Plug both the display and computer power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip. To connect the power cords (PCV- RS310 series m odel) Page 20...
  • Page 21: Turning On Your Computer

    Turning On Your Computer When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new equipment and display a dialog box that prompts you to restart your computer. Respond to this prompt immediately. Press the power button on the computer to turn on the power. Press the power button on the display to turn on the power.
  • Page 22: Registering Your Computer

    Registering your Computer Take advantage of Sony's commitment to quality customer support and receive these benefits by registering your computer:  Sony Customer Support — Communicate with a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.
  • Page 23 VAIO Software Tutorials Your new VAIO computer has audio and video software that makes it easy for you to create and edit videos, still images, ® and music files. This section describes your VAIO multimedia software. Depending on the system configuration purchased, your computer may not include all of the software described in this section.
  • Page 24 Multimedia Overview The preinstalled multimedia software give you a wide range of creative capability, such as:  Listening to music  Creating music CDs  Copying music from CDs and put them on your computer  Transferring music from your computer to different external devices ...
  • Page 25 About Recordable CD and DVD Media and Playback Equipment Selecting the appropriate CD or DVD media The following section is intended as general information for using your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive with appropriate CD or DVD media. You can find suggestions for selecting blank recording media, understanding different disc formats, and identifying compatible playback equipment.
  • Page 26  DVD-RAM  DVD-ROM Media compatibility with different equipment varies between manufacturers. If you experience difficulty with recording data or playing a disc, try a different disc or a different brand of media. Additional Information  CD and DVD format is Universal Disk Format (UDF) with Joliet. UDF is a file system standard. Joliet is an extension to the ISO 9660 standard, which enables CDs and DVDs to use long filenames and Unicode characters in a Windows operating system environment.
  • Page 27 About Recordable CD and DVD Media and Playback Equipment Selecting the appropriate CD or DVD media The following section is intended as general information for using your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive with appropriate CD or DVD media. You can find suggestions for selecting blank recording media, understanding different disc formats, and identifying compatible playback equipment.
  • Page 28  DVD-RAM  DVD-ROM Media compatibility with different equipment varies between manufacturers. If you experience difficulty with recording data or playing a disc, try a different disc or a different brand of media. Additional Information  CD and DVD format is Universal Disk Format (UDF) with Joliet. UDF is a file system standard. Joliet is an extension to the ISO 9660 standard, which enables CDs and DVDs to use long filenames and Unicode characters in a Windows operating system environment.
  • Page 29 About Compatible Playback Equipment Compatibility between CD or DVD media and playback equipment may vary.  Not all DVD players can play back video DVDs created on your computer.  Some DVD players can play back DVD-R(G) media, but are incompatible with DVD-RW media. ...
  • Page 30 Copying Data to Recordable CD and DVD media You can copy files to recordable media, using your computer's CD-RW, DVD-RW, or DVD±RW drive. For detailed information on your system's hardware configuration, see the specification sheet. Page 30...
  • Page 31 Adding data to a data DVD When creating a data DVD, you can choose to keep the writing session open and make a disc appendable, which means you can keep adding information to the disc.  Appendable writing — You can add more data to a disc as long as space is available on the disc. The recording session can stay open until the disc is full.
  • Page 32 Using Windows XP to create a CD or DVD Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into your CD-RW, DVD-RW, or DVD±RW drive. (If the CD Drive window appears, click Take no action.) Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then click My Computer. Locate the files and folders you want to copy ®...
  • Page 33 Using Drag'n Drop CD+DVD Software Drag'n Drop CD+DVD software easily creates data CDs and DVDs, as well as music CDs. Music, DISC Backup, and Data are the main features for Drag'n Drop software. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click All Programs. ®...
  • Page 34 To access Drag'n Drop CD+DVD software Help Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs ® Point to Drag'n Drop CD+DVD, and then click Drag'n Drop CD+DVD Help. Page 34...
  • Page 35 Using RecordNow Software If your VAIO computer is equipped with a DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive, you can copy files to DVD recordable media, using the ® preinstalled RecordNow software. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ®...
  • Page 36 To access RecordNow software Help Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ® Point to VERITAS Software, point to RecordNow, and then click RecordNow Help. Page 36...
  • Page 37 Using Click to DVD Software Use Click to DVD Automatic Mode software to quickly and easily make interactive DVDs. For more customized features, use Click to DVD software. To access Click to DVD software Help Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.
  • Page 38 Starting a video DVD project Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ® Point to Click to DVD, and then click to select Click to DVD. The Click to DVD - New Project (Start) window appears. Connect an i.LINK cable between the digital video device and the computer, and set the device to VCR/VTR ®...
  • Page 39 11. Select the Automatic Capture option and the Rewind tape check box. With these settings, the Click to DVD software rewinds the tape and then captures all the video clips on the tape. 12. Click Capture. To stop capturing at any time, click Stop Capture. The Click to DVD software rewinds the tape in your DV device and begins capturing all the video clips on the tape.
  • Page 40  Drag clips to a new position to change the playback order.  Divide a clip into two separate clips. Click to select a clip. Move the slider to the point where you want to divide the clip. Click Divide. ...
  • Page 41 From the Create Menu window, you can modify the automatically created windows.  Click Title Menu and Video Menu at the left of the window to move between the title window and the chapter windows.  Click Theme to change the background image for the windows. ...
  • Page 42 Creating a DVD can require several hours to complete. Interrupting the DVD creation process can result in an unusable DVD disc. Sony recommends that you do not use other software applications on your computer while Click to DVD software is burning your DVD.
  • Page 43 To save the DVD on your computer's hard drive Save your DVD project to your computer, so that you can edit its contents or create additional copies later. Click Menu. Select Save Project, type a name for your project in the File name field. Click Save.
  • Page 44 Additional Information For best results before capturing video clips:  Configure your computer so capturing is not interrupted.  Exit all other open applications, and disable screen savers.  On VAIO computers equipped with Giga Pocket features, cancel any scheduled timer recording sessions. ®...
  • Page 45 About Recording and Playing Music The Microsoft Windows XP operating system and the multimedia software preinstalled on your VAIO computer make it ® ® ® easy to import, export, organize, play back, and burn music CDs U nauthorized duplic ation of audio files is a violation of applic able laws . Page 45...
  • Page 46 Transferring music files to your VAIO computer You can transfer music to your VAIO computer from many different sources.  Audio CDs — Put your CD into your optical drive and check in songs to your computer's hard drive.  From external devices using a USB cable —...
  • Page 47 Using SonicStage Software SonicStage software is a digital music management system. You can play music on your computer, create custom audio , and much more.  Play and record music from audio CDs — Play your audio CDs and record audio tracks to your computer. Combine music tracks into Playlists and check them out to portable music devices.
  • Page 48 Starting SonicStage software Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and point to All Programs. Point to SonicStage, and then click SonicStage. SonicStage - Welcom e The CDDB registration window appears. Follow the on-screen instructions to register with the CDDB service. ®...
  • Page 49 Recording Assistant button Records or transfers audio files. Volume Control buttons Controls the volume for playing audio files. Source icons Changes the window depending on the selected feature. Equalizer button Adjusts the sound quality and registers new settings. Playback Area (Playlist view) Depending on the selected source, lets you do different things.
  • Page 50 Displays the playlists in the Categorized List you selected. Double-click a playlist to view its tracks. Internet button Displays or hides the Internet window where you can download or stream audio files via EMD services. Categorized List (Tree view) Displays the playlists stored in the Music Drive by artist name, genre, format, etc. Helps you locate your audio files. Internet address drop-down list (Playlist view) Displays Internet addresses associated with the currently selected song.
  • Page 51 Recording from a CD You can record songs from audio CDs and add them to playlists in SonicStage software. When you record from an audio CD from your optical drive for the first time, the CD Drive Optimization dialog box appears.
  • Page 52 When recording the audio tracks on a CD, you can: Click the Record All button to record all the tracks on a CD. Click the Rec Selection button to record the specific tracks you checked in the List Area. 10. When the Select Playlist window appears, select either Create a New Playlist or Add to Playlist, and then click Start Rec.
  • Page 53 Transferring songs (Check-In/Check-Out) Use SonicStage software to transfer audio files between the playlists stored in the Music Drive on your computer and external devices or media. Transferring files from the Music Drive to the external device or media is called "check-out," while transferring files from the external device or media to the Music Drive is called "check-in."...
  • Page 54 check in all of the tracks in the external device or media, click the Check-In All button. To cancel check-out, click Stop. To make a backup copy of an audio CD On computer models equipped with a CD recording device, you can use the Backing Up Audio CDs utility to make a backup copy of an audio CD.
  • Page 55 Additional features  SonicStage Backup Tool You can back up and restore music, graphics, and information data managed by SonicStage software. You must be connected to the Internet to use the SonicStage Backup Tool.  Import audio files in various formats You can import audio files in various formats, such as the ATRAC3 , ATRAC3plus , MP3, or WAV standards.
  • Page 56 Using SonicStage Mastering Studio Software SonicStage Mastering Studio software enables you to record songs from analog records or cassette tapes to save to your computer's hard drive. From your computer, you can burn the songs to CD-R or CD-RW discs, or create audio files in WAV format.
  • Page 57 To start SonicStage Mastering Studio software Click Start on the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs ® Point to SonicStage Mastering Studio and click SonicStage Mastering Studio. Page 57...
  • Page 58 To access the SonicStage Mastering Studio software Help Click Start on the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs Point to SonicStage Mastering Studio and click SonicStage Mastering Studio Help. Page 58...
  • Page 59 To access the SonicStage Mastering Studio Tutorial Click Start on the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs. Point to SonicStage Mastering Studio, and click Tutorial. Page 59...
  • Page 60 About Still Images (Photos) The Microsoft Windows XP operating system and the multimedia software preinstalled on your VAIO computer make it ® ® ® easy to import, edit, print, and customize your still images. Page 60...
  • Page 61 Transferring still images to your VAIO computer There are a variety of ways to bring still images into your computer using a digital camera or a traditional film camera.  Digital camera and Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable — Many digital cameras can connect directly to your computer using a USB cable.
  • Page 62 Editing still images You can use preinstalled software to perform traditional editing tasks such as resizing, cropping, and altering colors. You can add your own creative touch by customizing and combining multiple photos into albums, calendars or labels, using PictureGear Studio software.
  • Page 63 Using PictureGear Studio Software PictureGear Studio software has easy-to-use features that enable you to quickly load images from a digital camera or camcorder, print high-quality photos, create custom labels, and design personalized photo albums or binders to share with family and friends. Photo albums, binders, and photo collections can only be viewed or edited using PictureGear Studio software.
  • Page 64 Starting PictureGear Studio software Click Start on the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ® Point to PictureGear Studio and click PictureGear Studio. The PictureGear Studio main window appears. PictureGear Studio m ain window Page 64...
  • Page 65 Importing photos Capture and import the pictures from your digital camera or camcorder to your computer. You can select your favorite pictures and place them in folders for future use. When you initially connect your digital camera, camcorder or insert a Memory Stick media, Windows XP operating system ®...
  • Page 66 Click List to view all pictures that are located on the device or media. Make your selections and click Import Selected Photos. Specify Folder window Select a folder option. If you are importing to a new folder, type in the folder name before clicking Start Importing.
  • Page 67 Organizing your digital photo collections You can organize and manage your imported pictures on your computer's hard drive or from your ImageStation account. ® To organize your photos with the PhotoCollection feature Click PhotoCollection from the PictureGear Studio software's main window. A list of available photo sources is displayed on the left, with the selected source's contents displayed as thumbnail pictures on the right.
  • Page 68 Creating electronic binders You can add comments to your favorite photos, add custom backgrounds, clip art, and stamps, or showcase your own drawing talent. Add, remove, or change your designs to create your own unique photo art. Click Binder from the PictureGear Studio software's main window.
  • Page 69 Creating digital photo albums Organize your memorable photos in an electronic photo album. You can share your custom photo albums with friends and family Click PhotoAlbum from the PictureGear Studio software's main window. PhotoAlbum window Click New Album. The Select Photo area appears. To select the photos you want to include in your album from available folders, click List.
  • Page 70 Click to select a design layout for your album. Use the scroll bar to view all available album designs. Select Layout window Click to select a page layout for your album. Use the scroll bar to view all available layout designs. Scroll through your album using the book icons at the bottom of the window.
  • Page 71 Click Edit Album to make changes to your album. Customize your album by adding more pictures, pages, decorations, or comments, or by deleting pages. Click Edit Page to customize a page in your album. You can customize with your own drawing, stamps or other decorations.
  • Page 72 Sharing your digital albums To share your albums with friends and family, you can use three export formats:  Export the album as a Flash File. This creates a .swf file that you can view using Microsoft Internet Explorer. ® ...
  • Page 73 An export completion message window appears, displaying the file name and file size. Click Return to Edit Album Screen. Page 73...
  • Page 74 Designing Postcards and other customized products Use PrintStudio to design original postcards, calendars, art, and labels using your favorite still images. Click PrintStudio from the PictureGear Studio software's main window. PrintStudio window Select the item you want to create and click Start Creating. Make selections for the pictures, design layout, and custom decoration for the item you want to create.
  • Page 75 About Preinstalled Image-editing Software Your VAIO computer has other image-editing software preinstalled, depending on the system configuration purchased. For ® details on your preinstalled software titles, see the online or hardcopy specifications sheet. Page 75...
  • Page 76 Using Adobe Photoshop Elements software Adobe Photoshop Elements software is an image-editing software that is preinstalled on certain VAIO computers. It has ® ® ® a wide assortment of tools for enhancing your images and offers extensive online help to enable you to make the most of your still images.
  • Page 77 Using Microsoft Paint software Microsoft Paint software provides basic image-editing features. ® To start Microsoft Paint software Click Start on the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to Accessories and then click Paint. To access Microsoft Paint Help Start the Microsoft Paint software.
  • Page 78: About Video Editing

    About Video Editing The multimedia software preinstalled on your VAIO computer makes it easy to import and edit videos from compatible ® digital video (DV) devices or MICROMV cameras, that have an i.LINK connector. ® You can edit your video creations, export them back to your video camera, or save them as files on your computer or storage media.
  • Page 79 Transferring video content to your VAIO computer Before you can start creating your video on your VAIO computer, you need to transfer it from your DV device to your ® computer.  Digital Video device and i.LINK cable — Many digital video devices can connect directly to your computer using an ®...
  • Page 80 Using DVgate Plus Software DVgate Plus software enables you to transfer video content from your DV device to your VAIO computer. You can format ® your video into movies, and then save it on your computer's hard drive or record it back to your to your digital video camera.
  • Page 81 DVgate Plus software main features Capture and Output features Capture Modes (detail) Output feature (detail) For details on how to connect your digital video camera to your computer, refer to the documentation supplied with camera or the online VAIO Computer User Guide. ®...
  • Page 82 Starting DVgate Plus software Click Start on the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs ® Point to DVgate Plus and click DVgate Plus. To capture digital video (automatic mode) After starting DVgate Plus software, click Cancel to close the Mode Select Guide. Confirm that the Capture Mode is active.
  • Page 83 Click Output. 10. When the Confirm window appears, click OK. Page 83...
  • Page 84 Using DVgate Software DVgate Plus software provides complete control over all aspects of capturing, editing, and exporting digital video. To access the DVgate software's Help Click Start on the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ® Point to DVgate and click DVgate Help. Page 84...
  • Page 85 Starting DVgate software Click Start on the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ® Point to DVgate and click DVgate. To capture digital video Select IMPORT - Auto from the MODE list in the DVgate window, and click SCAN. The DVgate software scans your tape and creates a list of video clips for capture.
  • Page 86 Editing your digital video content DVgate software enables you to combine your captured video clips into a single movie. You can also trim the beginning and end of each clip, so you only include the scenes you want. Click Start and then click All Programs. Point to DVgate and click DVgate Assemble.
  • Page 87 Transferring a finished movie to your digital video camera After you have created a movie, you can export it back to your compatible DV device. Confirm your DV device is set to recording mode. On certain models this is called VCR or VTR mode. Turn on your DV device, and insert a tape.
  • Page 88 Additional Information  Connect the DV device to your VAIO computer using an i.LINK cable. Only one DV device can be connected to your ® computer at a time.  The Windows XP operating system (default settings), may display the Digital Video Device window each time you ®...
  • Page 89: About Networks

    About Networks VAIO Media software brings networking capability to your preinstalled multimedia software. Depending on the software preinstalled on your system, you can share still images, music, video, and live television to other VAIO computers on your ® network For a lis ting on the preins talled s oftware on your c omputer, s ee the online or hard c opy s pec ific ations s heet. Page 89...
  • Page 90 Network media servers You can set up one or more computers to act as media servers to store and deliver your multimedia files across a wired or wireless network. VAIO Media software is available on certain VAIO computer models. ® Page 90...
  • Page 91 Using VAIO Media Software To share music, video, and photos with the VAIO Media system, set up one computer on your network as a media server, and install the VAIO Media client software on other computers. Computers on the network with the VAIO Media client software can then view the multimedia content stored on the VAIO Media server computer.
  • Page 92 System Requirements To begin sharing multimedia content through the network, activate the VAIO Media software on the server and register client computers to the server. Server system requirements  The VAIO Media server requires VAIO computers running Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition or Windows XP ®...
  • Page 93 Setting up the client computers From the server side, you must initialize the installer program and copy it to each client computer in the network. To distribute the installer program Click Start on the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. ®...
  • Page 94 Preparing your multimedia content Use preinstalled software to prepare your multimedia content for sharing across the network, using VAIO Media software. To prepare your multimedia content:  Music files — Use SonicStage software, ver. 1.5 or later, to create playlists of music files on your VAIO Media server computer.
  • Page 95 Starting VAIO Media Console Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then point to All Programs. Point to VAIO Media, point to Server Administration, and click Console. Your VAIO Media server computer is now available to serve multimedia content to the VAIO Media client computers on your network.
  • Page 96 Click the playlist, image folder, or video cabinet you want to view or listen to.  Playlists window — When you click a playlist on the Playlist window, it displays a list of the music files on the playlist, and the first music file on the playlist begins playing. ...
  • Page 97 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 98 Starting Network Smart Capture software Click Start on the Windows taskbar and then point to All Programs. Point to Network Smart Capture and then click Network Smart Capture. The Network Smart Capture main window appears. Network Smart Capture opens with a preinstalled video clip in the Finder Window, indicating there is no data input from a digital camera or camcorder.
  • Page 99 Opens captured images in the Finder window Web Camera Captures still images according to specified settings Save As Saves an image to your hard disk Movie Mode Captures video Send the selected images Enables you to send images or movies by e-mail, to ImageStation Web site, or to upload them to a photo server 13 ®...
  • Page 100 Capturing still images using Still mode The following information tells you how to set preferences and capture a still image. To set Still mode preferences Start Network Smart Capture software and connect your compatible i.LINK digital camera or camcorder to your ®...
  • Page 101 Click the thumbnail images or arrows to the right of the Finder Window to view the images. As you capture each image, it appears in the Finder Window. Page 101...
  • Page 102 Capturing video clips using Movie mode To set Movie mode preferences Start Network Smart Capture software and connect your compatible i.LINK digital camera or camcorder to your ® computer with an i.LINK cable (optional). Click Movie. Click Change Setting to view the available options for your movie capture. Mov ie Clip Setting window The Movie Clip Setting window has four tabs: ...
  • Page 103 Capturing Web camera images To set Web camera mode preferences Start Network Smart Capture software. Click Web camera. Click Change Setting to view the available options for your image capture. Web Cam era Setting window The Web Camera Setting window has six tabs: ...
  • Page 104 Applying effects to your still images and movies You can add effects to real-time images or movies displayed in the Finder Window. You can use a different effect for each picture. Effect Selection Click Select Effect near the bottom of the window to open the drop-down list of effects. Click to select digital zoom, effect, or no effect from the list.
  • Page 105 Using the ImageStation online service ImageStation is an online service that allows you to store your images and movies on the Internet to share with family and ® friends. The ImageStation service requires an Internet connection and registration for the Web-based service. You must be connected to the Internet before uploading your images or movies with Smart Capture and ImageStation programs.
  • Page 106: Configuring Your Vaio Computer

    Configuring Your VAIO Computer This section provides basic information about managing your computer's i.LINK devices. Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features described in this section, depending on the system configuration purchased. To view the specific hardware configuration for your computer, see the online specifications sheet.
  • Page 107 Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
  • Page 108 Connecting an i.LINK (IEEE 1394) device Use the symbol to locate the i.LINK port on your compatible i.LINK device and on your computer. Plug the i.LINK cable connector into this port. Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding 4- or 6-pin i.LINK port on your computer. See the instructions that came with your i.LINK device for more information on installation and use.
  • Page 109 In the future you may want to increase the functionality of your VAIO computer. This section describes how to perform basic upgrades and maintenance on your system. For more information on upgrading your computer, see your model's System Reference Manual. You can download the System Reference Manual from the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
  • Page 110 Overview The upgrading procedures described in this section assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Before upgrading your computer Disconnect the computer from its power source and from telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the unit or follow any procedures described in this section.
  • Page 111 About Opening the System Unit Removing the cover Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and disconnect any peripheral devices. Position the system unit so that the back panel is facing towards you. Unscrew the three cover release screws located on the edges of the back panel and set aside.
  • Page 112 Replacing the cover Carefully align the cover to the chassis frame. The cover should align evenly against the chassis. Slide the cover firmly onto the unit, sliding it forward until the cover snaps into place. Replace the release screws. Replacing the cov er Page 112...
  • Page 113 9.05 inches. Add-on card configuration varies by model. Some models, such as Configure-to-Order (CTO) systems, may contain preinstalled add-on cards. Observe the proper safety precautions when you add cards to your Sony computer. See Before upgrading your computer. Installing an add-on card Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer.
  • Page 114 Attach any internal cables that the card requires. See the instructions supplied with the add-on card. Replace the cover. See Replacing the cover. Reconnect the power cord and all peripheral devices. Turn on the computer. Page 114...
  • Page 115: About Installing Memory

    About Installing Memory The amount of preinstalled memory may vary, depending on the system configuration you purchased. Your computer may ship with all available memory slots filled. For memory replacement or upgrades, use the correct memory module for your computer's configuration. See the online Specifications sheet for details about the amount and type of memory installed in your computer.
  • Page 116 Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. Remove the cover. See Removing the cover. Gently place the unit on its side. If necessary, remove any cables, add-on cards, or other components to access the memory module slots.
  • Page 117: About The Lithium Battery

    About the Lithium Battery The lithium battery starts to weaken after several years and the system settings, such as the date and time stored in CMOS RAM, may become inaccurate. Replace the lithium battery when this occurs. There is danger of the battery exploding if it is replaced incorrectly. Replace the battery only with a CR2032-type lithium battery.
  • Page 118 Dispose of the lithium battery properly. In some areas, the disposal of lithium batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. You can return your unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service Center. To locate a Service Center near you, visit the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
  • Page 119: About Hard Disk Drive Installation

    Configure-to-Order (CTO) systems, may already have a second hard disk drive installed. Your system can support ATA-33, ATA-66, or ATA-100 hard disk drives. Sony recommends using an ATA-100 hard disk drive to take full advantage of your system's features.
  • Page 120 From the list of accessories, locate the Partition Recovery ASSY and click the option, Add to Cart. Click Continue to Check Out, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete your purchase. If you are not able to access the Sony Direct Accessories and Parts Center Web site, contact a customer service representative at 1-800-488-7669.
  • Page 121 For detailed information about installing additional hard disk drives, see the System Reference Manual. You can download the System Reference Manual from the Sony Computing Support Web site at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Your computer must have an active Internet connection to access the Sony Computing Support Web site. From the Sony support Web site: Click on Computers &...
  • Page 122 Installing an additional hard disk drive Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. Remove the cover. See Removing the cover. Configure the jumpers on the new drive as a slave. See the configuration instructions supplied with your drive. Detach the power and drive cables from the original hard disk drive that is preinstalled in your computer.
  • Page 123 the new drive to the drive holder. 10. Realign the drive holder with the tracks on the inside of the chassis and slide the drive holder in completely. 11. Reinsert the drive holder screw and tighten to lock the drive holder back into position. 12.
  • Page 124 Identifying the additional hard disk space When you initialize the new hard disk, it must be configured as an extended partition in Windows NT file system (NTFS) format. Log on to Windows as Administrator. ® Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then right-click My Computer. A shortcut menu appears. Select Manage.
  • Page 125: Troubleshooting

    Troubleshooting This section describes how to troubleshoot common problems. You can also find helpful information on how to use your computer's hardware features and preinstalled software. Your computer may not be equipped with all of the features or software discussed in this section, depending on the system configuration purchased. ...
  • Page 126: About Vaio Computer Functions

    About VAIO Computer Functions My computer does not start.  Verify that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator is lit on the front panel of the computer. ...
  • Page 127 About VAIO Computer Functions My computer does not start.  Verify that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator is lit on the front panel of the computer. ...
  • Page 128 Why did my computer or software stop responding? You can try to locate and close the software application that has stopped responding. Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys. The Windows Task Manager window appears. From the Applications tab, locate the application that has the status message, "Not responding." Select the application that has a Not Responding status and click End Task.
  • Page 129 Why does the Windows operating system stop responding during shutdown? The Windows operating system may not shut down properly for many reasons, including incompatible or conflicting drivers, damaged files, or non-responsive hardware. For troubleshooting information, you can search Windows Help. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Help and Support.
  • Page 130 Why is my system running slowly?  The system responsiveness varies depending with the number of applications that are open and running. Close any applications that you are not currently using.  Increasing the system memory may also help. For information on installing memory, please see the online VAIO User Guide.
  • Page 131 How do I change the video resolution of my display? Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select Control Panel. Select Appearance and Themes, and then select Change the screen resolution. Click the Settings tab. Change the Screen resolution and Color quality to the desired levels. Click Apply and then click OK.
  • Page 132: About Using The Optical Disc Drive(S)

    About Using the Optical Disc Drive(s) Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this section. To view the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the online specifications sheet. Page 132...
  • Page 133 Why doesn't my optical drive tray open? To use the Eject button Make sure the computer is turned on. Press the Eject button on the drive. To use the My Computer icon Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select My Computer. Right-click the appropriate optical drive icon.
  • Page 134 Why can't I play a DVD or CD media?  After inserting your CD or DVD, wait a few seconds for the system to detect it before trying to access it.  Confirm that the disc is in the tray with the label side facing up. ...
  • Page 135 Why isn't my DVD playing properly?  If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player application, it may be that the region code of the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the region code setting of your optical drive. A region code is listed on the disc packaging.
  • Page 136: About The Mouse And Keyboard

    About the Mouse and Keyboard Why doesn't my mouse work properly?  Confirm that the mouse is plugged securely into the mouse port. If you are using a USB mouse, verify that the mouse is plugged securely into the appropriate USB port. ...
  • Page 137 About the Mouse and Keyboard Why doesn't my mouse work properly?  Confirm that the mouse is plugged securely into the mouse port. If you are using a USB mouse, verify that the mouse is plugged securely into the appropriate USB port. ...
  • Page 138 How do I set up my mouse for left-hand use? Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Mouse. The Mouse Properties dialog box appears. From the Buttons tab, select Switch primary and secondary buttons under the Button Configuration options. Click Apply, then click OK.
  • Page 139 Why doesn't my keyboard work properly?  Check that the keyboard is securely plugged into the keyboard port.  Save and close all open applications. Turn off your computer, wait approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer. T he V A I O "W" s eries c omputer has a built-in keyboard. Page 139...
  • Page 140: About The Modem

    About the Modem Why is my modem connection slow? Many factors can influence modem connection speed, such as:  Telephone line noise.  Incompatibility with other telephone equipment such as fax machines or other modems.  Internet Service Providers (ISP) connection capability may vary. If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your ISP, check the following: ...
  • Page 141 About the Modem Why is my modem connection slow? Many factors can influence modem connection speed, such as:  Telephone line noise.  Incompatibility with other telephone equipment such as fax machines or other modems.  Internet Service Providers (ISP) connection capability may vary. If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your ISP, check the following: ...
  • Page 142 Check that the access telephone number (POP) is correct.  All software applications that are preinstalled by Sony are compatible with your computer's modem. If you have installed other software, contact the software publisher for information on how to configure the software in order to recognize the modem.
  • Page 143 How do I change my modem to rotary or Touch-tone dialing? Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Phone and Modem options. From the Dialing Rules tab, click Edit. The Edit Location dialog box appears. Select the Tone or Pulse option.
  • Page 144: About The Speakers

    About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any application?  Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack.  If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off.  If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged.
  • Page 145 About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any application?  Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack.  If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off.  If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged.
  • Page 146 About Using a Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Page 146...
  • Page 147 About Using a Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Page 147...
  • Page 148 Why is my microphone so sensitive to background noise? If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound, you should adjust the microphone by following these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click Sounds and Audio Devices.
  • Page 149: About Using Peripheral Equipment

    About Using Peripheral Equipment How do I install a printer?  Connect your USB or IEEE 1394 printer to the appropriate port on your computer's front, back or side panels . If your printer has a USB, IEEE 1394, or infrared connection, contact the printer manufacturer for information or updates that may be required for proper installation.
  • Page 150 About Using Peripheral Equipment How do I install a printer?  Connect your USB or IEEE 1394 printer to the appropriate port on your computer's front, back or side panels . If your printer has a USB, IEEE 1394, or infrared connection, contact the printer manufacturer for information or updates that may be required for proper installation.
  • Page 151 The connected printer does not function properly when the computer resumes from a power saving mode.  Clear the printer memory by turning the printer off for approximately 10 seconds, and then turning it back on.  If your printer does not resume normal operations, try restarting your computer. Page 151...
  • Page 152: Notes On Use

    Notes On Use The information in this section provides basic procedures for handling your system and common peripheral devices, using storage media, and locating upgrade procedures. A support resource listing is also provided to help you locate the appropriate support options. ...
  • Page 153: About The Power Source

    About the Power Source Before opening your computer, turn the system off and let it cool down for 10 minutes. This protects you against internal components that may be too hot to handle.  Your computer operates on 100-120 V AC 50/60 Hz only. ...
  • Page 154: About Disposing Of The Lithium Battery

    Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium batteries. The lithium battery may explode if mistreated. Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire. Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Using a type of battery other than a CR2032 may present a risk of fire or explosion.
  • Page 155: About Handling The Computer System

    Your computer, keyboard, and mouse consist of high-precision electronic parts. Do not drop them or bump them against other objects.  Your Sony computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX). ...
  • Page 156: About Handling A Monitor (Display)

    About Handling a Monitor (Display)  DVD playback and certain video-related software may not function correctly when your monitor is set to a high refresh rate. If your monitor does not play back video content properly, try setting the display to a lower refresh rate.
  • Page 157 OpenMG software are not compatible with the new Memory Stick PRO media. ® Sony suggests using only the MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage and OpenMG software.  Currently, the Memory Stick slot on VAIO computers does not support the high-speed data transfer or access ®...
  • Page 158: Support Options

    Support Options Sony provides several options to help solve common problems or to locate support for your VAIO computer. This section ® describes all available resources and offers suggestions on how to access this information for maximum results.  Immediate Help and Support ...
  • Page 159: Immediate Help And Support

    From the menu bar, click Help. The Help file appears. Y ou c an loc ate the online H elp for Sony s oftware applic ations by pointing to the individual applic ation's ic on and s elec ting H elp from the s ubmenu.
  • Page 160: Help And Support Resources

    Sony Computing Support Web site Online help and support are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, when you visit the Sony Computing Support Web site. You can access the Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. The Sony Computing Support Web site provides: ...
  • Page 161 Brief description of the issue. For VAIO computers purchased in the U.S. and Canada, contact a Sony Support representative at 1-888-476-6972. ® T he s erial number is loc ated on the bac k panel of your c omputer. T he s erial number is on a white barc ode label.

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