Page 1 Welcome Thank you for purchasing a 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 programs 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 purchased. For details on the accessories supplied with your computer, see the online Specifications sheet. Your VAIO computer is not supplied with System or Application Recovery CDs. Use the VAIO Recovery utility to recover ®...
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 A software library, containing the Microsoft software and Sony end-user license agreements. ® ® 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. On certain models, the front ® panel also provides access to a Memory Stick media slot, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder features, SmartMedia , ®...
Page 8 Standby indicator Light is amber when the computer is in Stand by mode. Memory Stick media slot and access indicator Reads and writes data from and to a Memory Stick media. The access indicator is amber when reading or writing data to a ®...
Page 9 CompactFlash/Microdrive media card slot Reads and writes data from and to CompactFlash or Microdrive media. SmartMedia card slot Reads and writes data from and to a SmartMedia media. Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) ports Connections for compatible high/full/low-speed USB devices. i.LINK 4-pin S400 port (IEEE 1394) Connection for a compatible digital device.
Page 10: 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 configuration may vary based on the system you purchased. Back panel AC Input port Connection for the supplied power cord.
Page 11 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. Monitor port Connection for a standard display.
Page 12 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 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. When the indicator is off, the screen scrolls normally.
Page 15: About The Remote Control
About the Remote Control The remote control is supplied with VAIO computers that are equipped with Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder features ® ® . The remote control can start and stop video recording and playback, select channels, and set viewing preferences. This section describes the basic functions of your remote control.
Page 16 REC STOP button Press to stop recording. (Note: The REC STOP function is only available for the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software program.) ® REC button Press to begin recording. (Note: The REC function is only available for the Giga Pocket software program.) TV button Press to change from the on-screen image to the TV/Recording deck.
Page 17 VOLUME button Press to raise or lower the volume. STANDBY button Press to place the system into Stand by mode. (Note: You cannot place the computer into Stand by mode when certain Giga Pocket software program functions are running.) AUDIO button Press to view available sound mode options on the monitor/display.
Page 18 PLAY button Press to begin playback. PAUSE button Press to pause playback. MENU button Press to view a shortcut menu of available software programs. Press again to hide this menu. (Note: For the Giga Pocket software program, the Select Video Capsules window displays. Press the button again to hide ®...
Page 19: 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 20: Connecting A Display (Monitor)
Connecting a Display (Monitor) Plug the display's cable into the appropriate monitor port. If necessary, plug the display's cable into the back of the display. The location and availability of the monitor ports may vary, depending on the model purchased. For details about your computer's hardware configuration, see the online specifications sheet.
Page 21: Connecting The Speakers
Connecting the Speakers The right and left speakers are attached. The right speaker has a speaker wire with 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 22: 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 To use an optical mouse An optical mouse requires an ideal surface in order to provide proper pointing and tracking.
Page 23: Connecting The Telephone And Modem Cables
Connecting the Telephone and Modem Cables Your computer is equipped with a single modem line jack to connect the supplied modem cable to your telephone wall jack. To use your wall jack for your telephone and modem lines, purchase a "1-to-2" jack adapter device (splitter). To connect the modem cable Unplug your telephone from the wall jack.
Page 24 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet port. Using other cables or a telephone cable may result in an electric current overload that can cause a malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the Ethernet port. For help on connecting to a network, see your network administrator. Page 24...
Page 25: Connecting The Power Cords
Connecting the Power Cords Plug the power cord 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 Page 25...
Page 26: 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 27: 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 28: Turning Off Your Computer
Turning Off your Computer Follow these steps when you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of time. To avoid loss of data, do not use the Power button to turn off the computer. To turn off your computer Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Turn Off Computer.
Page 29 Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a suite of interactive Sony audio and video components that are designed to ® create, capture, and play back video files derived from television and your personal videos. Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder hardware and software applications are not available on all VAIO computers.
Page 30: About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a unique set of tools that enhance your VAIO computer's capabilities. Giga Pocket ® gives you a wide range of video viewing, recording, and playback capabilities, such as: ...
Page 31 Memory Stick ® ® media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ Handheld. Accessing the Giga Pocket Help For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select All Programs.
Page 32 Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder This section illustrates how to set up the cables and connections for your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder system. ® The hardware configuration of your computer may vary from the illustrations shown. To view the specific hardware configuration for your computer, see the online specifications sheet.
Page 33 To set up TV connections The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type of cable connection available in your home. Your VAIO Computer is supplied with an antenna cable. Depending on your in-home cable access, you may require ®...
Page 34 You can connect your Giga Pocket system to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or 2 from the previous section, Connecting to standard cable access (CATV). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (optional) to connect your computer and the indoor/outdoor antenna system.
Page 35 Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display. To connect in STB m ode (Option 1) Option 2 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (supplied) to your cable service access.
Page 36 Page 36...
Page 37 To set up additional equipment This section illustrates how to set up additional equipment with the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder System. Your VAIO computer has both audio and video connection capability. The connections are located behind the bottom panel ®...
Page 38 Connecting the infrared receiv er (back panel) Page 38...
Page 39 Setting Up Giga Pocket Software Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software features and functions are detailed in this section, enabling you to begin ® viewing or recording TV programs. Page 39...
Page 40 To set up TV viewing When you start Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for the first time, you are automatically prompted to set the video input source for watching TV or cable TV (CATV) programs on your computer. Starting Giga Pocket for TV Setup (For first time setup) Verify that the computer time and date settings as displayed in the taskbar are correct.
Page 41 Click Next. The wizard displays a dialog box that enables you to customize the channel listings. Click Auto Scan. You can view the channel reception in the pop-up TV Setup - Monitor window. TV Setup Wizard - Custom ize the channel listing If your computer is connected to the Internet, you can click Go to Web Site...
Page 42 Type in a password and click Finish. Setting up your display (monitor) When using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, set your display settings as follows: ®  Colors — Use the default factory settings (32-bit).  Screen area — Use the default video resolution. If you change the default settings, you may experience poor image quality on your display.
Page 43 Giga Pocket Giga Pocket enables you to watch a TV program on your computer display while recording it onto your hard disk drive. ® Using the Giga Pocket Slip Play feature, you can view a program from the beginning even while it is being recorded. Page 43...
Page 44 Starting Giga Pocket Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, then click Giga Pocket. The ® Giga Pocket window appears. Giga Pocket window The current television broadcast is displayed, based on the selected channel. Page 44...
Page 45 Using the TV/Recording deck and Playback deck Giga Pocket features two decks on the main interface window: the TV/Recording deck and the Playback deck. ® TV/Recording deck (detail) Use the TV/Recording deck to view programs and record Video Capsules. You can use the Playback deck of your Giga Pocket to play back a prerecorded Video Capsule.
Page 46 Recording a Video Capsule Giga Pocket stores recorded images as Video Capsules. The Video Capsules provide file recording information, which can be viewed through Giga Pocket Explorer. Manage your Video Capsules with Giga Pocket Explorer. You cannot record a program into a previously recorded Video Capsule. All new content is recorded into a new Video Capsule.
Page 47  You record a TV channel that has no broadcast content.  You record video content from an old video tape with poor signal quality.  The on-screen display may shift and split under some circumstances. If this occurs, switch the TV/Recording deck and the playback deck, or switch the channel.
Page 48 Using the TV Program Web site Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, and then select Zap2it. You can also go directly to the Web site at http://www.sony.com/vaiotv. Timer Recording requires an Internet connection. See the section, Setting up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service, for information on setting up for first-time use.
Page 49: Timer Recording Wizard
Timer Recording Wizard With the Timer Recording Wizard, you can set, adjust, and cancel the timer recording settings. Page 49...
Page 50 Using the Timer Recording Wizard Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, then select Giga Pocket. Select Timer Recording Wizard. The Timer Recording Wizard dialog box appears. Tim er Recording Wizard Select the desired option from the Select Timer Recording Settings menu and click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Page 51 automatically programmed into the appropriate Timer Recording Wizard fields. You can set the stop time for your timer recording and select the recording mode. The stop time is automatically programmed into the Timer Recording Wizard. Verify the stop time, choose a recording mode, and then click Next Recording Mode Description Standard Play (SP)
Page 52 Select a date for the recorded program to be automatically deleted from your hard disk drive, using the Expiration date of Video Capsule drop-down list. To maintain adequate space on your hard disk drive, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder enables you to set ®...
Page 53 Additional information about the Timer Recording Wizard  Timer recording requires approximately 30 seconds (pre-recording) preparation time prior to beginning each recording session. Please keep this in mind when setting up multiple, back-to-back recording sessions. Giga Pocket software stops the current timer recording, pauses to prepare, and then begins the next timer recording according to the set start time.
Page 54: Timer Recording Manager
Timer Recording Manager The Timer Recording Manager keeps track of all scheduled TV recordings. Your computer settings, by default, are set to start Timer Recording Manager automatically when the computer is turned on. Timer recordings are being performed when the Timer Recording Manager icon (Timer Recording Manager) is visible in the Windows taskbar.
Page 55 Using the Timer Recording Manager Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, select Giga Pocket, and then click All Software. ® Click Timer Recording Manager. The Timer Recording Manager window appears. Tim er Recording Manager  Windows Stand by — Places the Windows operating system into Stand by mode when the preset timer recording is set to begin, or if a Video Capsule is set to expire.
Page 56 Viewing your selected program recording schedule You can easily view the programs you have selected to record, using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder. The Timer ® Recording Manager feature enables you to change or cancel your timer recording at any time. To view your scheduled timer recordings, follow these steps: Double-click on the Timer Recording Manager icon , located in the Windows...
Page 57 Cabinets. Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to play back Video Capsules using Giga Pocket. You can import MPEG files, that were created with compatible Sony applications, and export Video Capsules as AVI or MPEG files. Using Giga Pocket Explorer Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, point to Giga Pocket Explorer.
Page 58 Accessing DVgate Plus Help For additional information about using DVgate Plus software features, follow these steps to access the Help. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to DVgate Plus and click DVgate Plus Help. Page 58...
Page 59 Recording Video Capsules onto recordable DVD media You can record Video Capsules to DVD-R/DVD-RW media with the Make DVD feature. The Click to DVD software must be installed in order to burn Video Capsules to recordable DVD media. From the Giga Pocket Explorer main window, select the Video Capsules you want to burn onto a DVD. On the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar, click Make DVD.
Page 60 Exporting Video Capsules You can export your Video Capsules as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, or AVI file formats for viewing on external media. In the list area, right-click the Video Capsule you want to export. A shortcut menu appears. Select Export. The Export dialog box appears. Export Enter an output name for the file you want to export and specify the location for the exported file.
Page 61 Using Network Cabinets Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to connect to Video Capsules in network cabinets located on other computers in a network. These network cabinets can be accessed through the Giga Pocket Explorer main window when you are connected to the network.
Page 62: Clié Converter
The Sony CLIÉ Handheld personal entertainment organizers provide a rich and compelling handheld computing experience. Powered by the Palm operating system, the CLIÉ handheld is ready to deliver music and video with amazing clarity. For more information on this exciting device, go to the Sony Style Web site at http://sonystyle.com/vaio/clie. Page 62...
Page 63 Starting CLIÉ Converter Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to Giga Pocket, point to Plug-ins, and then click CLIÉ Converter. The Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window appears. Giga Pocket - > CLIÉ Conv erter Page 63...
Page 64 Converting Video Capsules From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter window, click the Setting... button. The Settings dialog box appears. Enter your desired settings and click OK. Start Giga Pocket Explorer as follows: Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select All Programs. Select Giga Pocket, and then click Giga Pocket Explorer.
Page 65 Transferring converted video files to a Memory Stick media Insert a Memory Stick media into the Memory Stick media slot on your computer. ® From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window, click to select the videos you want to transfer to the Memory Stick media.
Page 66 Glossary The most common terms for Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software are defined below. Cabinet A cabinet acts as a container for Video Capsules in Giga Pocket Explorer. A network cabinet is located on other computers in a network environment. CATV Refers to Community Access Television, otherwise known as cable television.
Page 67 Accessing Giga Pocket Help For more information about Giga Pocket, follow these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to Giga Pocket, point to Help, and then select Giga Pocket Help. Page 67...
Page 68: Internet Electronic Program Guide Service
Internet Electronic Program Guide Service Internet Electronic Program Guide is a free, online service that enables quick and easy access to your local TV listings. You can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service with your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for a "one-click" set ®...
Page 69 Setting up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service You must be connected to the Internet, before setting up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service. Sony recommends using Microsoft Internet Explorer as your Web browser to access the Internet Electronic Program ®...
Page 70: Configuring Your Vaio Computer
Configuring Your VAIO Computer This section provides basic information about managing your computer's supplied hardware components. 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 71 You can store different data formats on a single Memory Stick media. Currently, Sony SonicStage and OpenMG software are not compatible with the new Memory Stick PRO media. Sony ® suggests using only MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage or OpenMG software.
Page 72 Additional information about Memory Stick media If your computer does not recognize your Memory Stick media, you may have removed the media from the Memory Stick ® slot before data access had completed. If this occurs, follow these steps: Remove the Memory Stick media from the slot. Shut down your computer by closing any open software programs, and then turn off your computer.
Page 73 About the SmartMedia Card Slot Your VAIO computer may be equipped with a SmartMedia card slot that supports SmartMedia cards. For details on the ® specific hardware configuration for your system, see the online Specifications sheet. Inserting a SmartMedia card Insert a SmartMedia card into the SmartMedia card slot.
Page 74 may become damaged. Additional information about SmartMedia cards If you plan to share your media card between your VAIO computer and devices such as a digital camera or music player, ® the media must be formatted properly.  Format the media card by using it in the device first. See the information supplied with the device for details on formatting media.
Page 75 About the CompactFlash/Microdrive Media Slot Your VAIO computer may be equipped with a CompactFlash /Microdrive media slot that supports CompactFlash and ® ® Microdrive media. For details on the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the online Specifications sheet. Inserting a CompactFlash or Microdrive media card Insert a CompactFlash or Microdrive media card into the media card slot.
Page 76 formatting media.  If your device does not recognize the media that has been formatted by your computer: Save the media contents to your hard disk drive. Reformat the media with the device. Page 76...
Page 77 Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software programs, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
Page 78 To view the specific connection capabilities for your system, see the online specifications sheet. For detailed information about upgrading your computer, see your model's System Reference Manual. You can download the System Reference Manual from the Sony Online Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 79 Overview The upgrading procedures described in this section assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal computers, safety practices, required regulatory compliances, and the modification of 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 80 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 you. Unscrew the three cover release screws located on the edges of the back panel and set aside.
Page 81 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 81...
Page 82 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 83 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 83...
Page 84: 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 85 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 86: About The Lithium Battery
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 Online Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 87 Resetting the computer's date and time Double-click on the time readout displayed in the Windows tasktray. The Date and Time Properties window ® appears. From the Date & Time tab, change the settings as desired. Click Apply, then click OK. Page 87...
Page 88: 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 89 Slide the new drive into the drive holder and align the holes on each side of the drive to the holes in the drive holder. Secure the drive to the drive holder with screws, through the holes on each side of the drive holder. Attaching the driv e screws Your new hard disk drive is supplied with the necessary screws.
Page 90 15. Replace the cover. See Replacing the cover. 16. Reconnect the power cord to your computer. 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.
Page 91: 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 92: 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 93 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 94 What can I do if my computer or software stop responding? You can try to locate and close the software program that has stopped responding. Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys. The Windows Task Manager window appears. From the Applications tab, locate the software program that has the status message, "Not responding." Select the software program that has a Not Responding status and click End Task.
Page 95 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 96 Why is my system running slowly?  The system responsiveness varies depending with the number of software programs that are open and running. Close any programs 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 97 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 98 Why doesn't my computer resume normal operation from Stand by mode?  If your keyboard has a Stand by key , press it briefly to resume normal operation.  If your keyboard is not equipped with a Stand by key, press any key to resume normal operation. ...
Page 99: About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Why can't I see an image or an image that is displayed properly when I am using a VCR? Some images from an externally-connected video player device or a video game console, may not display or are not displayed correctly.
Page 100 About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Why can't I see an image or an image that is displayed properly when I am using a VCR? Some images from an externally-connected video player device or a video game console, may not display or are not displayed correctly.
Page 101 Why does my Giga Pocket viewing window or the images played back from a Video Capsule, appear distorted or corrupted? There are some situations where screen or image distortion may occur, such as:  When you change the channel on the video player device. ...
Page 102 Why does my system seem to slow down when I play a Video Capsule? Your computer may respond slower if you try to play back a Video Capsule while recording a TV program with Giga Pocket. During a timer recording, Giga Pocket may interrupt or stop your Video Capsule playback to prioritize your computer's resources for the timer recording.
Page 103 Why did I get the error message, "Event buffer of audio overflow?" The timer recording may fail in certain situations, such as:  The coaxial cable (input) is disconnected after recording has started.  The TV channel has lost broadcast signal during the recording session. ...
Page 104 Why did my on-screen display shift or split? Your on-screen display may shift or split in rare instances. If this should occur, switch the TV/Recording deck and the playback deck, or try switching the channel. Your timer recording continues even if the on-screen display has shifted or split.
Page 105 Why did Giga Pocket stop allowing me to create new Video Capsules? You cannot create a new Video Capsule when the remaining free space on your hard disk drive reaches approximately 100 MB. Delete any unnecessary Video Capsules or files to increase the free space on your hard drive. Page 105...
Page 106: 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 specifications sheet for your computer on the Sony Online Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 107 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 specifications sheet for your computer on the Sony Online Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 108 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 109 Why isn't my DVD playing properly?  If a region code warning appears when you are using a DVD player software program, 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 110: 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 111 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 112 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 113 Why doesn't my keyboard work properly?  Check that the keyboard is securely plugged into the keyboard port.  Save and close all open software programs. Turn off your computer, wait approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer.  If you are using a wireless keyboard: ...
Page 114: 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 115 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 116 Check that the access telephone number (POP) is correct.  All software programs 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 117 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 118 How do I set up a dial-up connection? After you have connected your computer's modem cable, follow these steps to set up your dial-up connection to the Internet: Click Start from the Windows taskbar and select All Programs. Point to Accessories, point to Communications, and then click New Connection Wizard. The New Connection Wizard appears.
Page 119: About The Speakers
About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any software program?  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 120 About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any software program?  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 121 Why can't I hear sound when using the SP/DIF option for digital output? If your computer has a preinstalled Sound Blaster Audigy ES sound card , the Play Control settings must be changed to support digital sound. Follow these steps to change the settings: From the Windows taskbar notification area, double-click on The Play Control dialog box appears.
Page 122 About Using a Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Page 122...
Page 123 About Using a Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Page 123...
Page 124 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 125: 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 126 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 127 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 127...
Page 128: 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 129: 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 130 About Using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder The information in this section provides guidelines to follow when using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder. ® Display setup Always set up your display as follows when you use Giga Pocket:  Color quality: Use factory default settings (32-bit). ...
Page 131: 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 132: 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 133 the equipment.  Avoid using radio-controlled toys or equipment, CB radios, and other wireless devices in the area near your wireless keyboard. These other devices may cause interference, causing your wireless keyboard or mouse to stop working properly.  Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wireless device, as this may create interference, causing your wireless device to stop working properly.
Page 134: 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 135 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 may not support all of the high-speed data transfer or access ®...
Page 136: 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 137: Immediate Help And Support
Click Welcome to VAIO life. Y ou c an loc ate the online H elp for Sony s oftware programs by pointing to the individual s oftware program's ic on and s elec ting H elp from the s ubmenu.
Page 138: Software Help And Support
Software Help and Support Support information for the preinstalled software on your system is located in this section. Sony software support is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software discussed in this section, depending on the computer purchased.
Page 139 Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder ® Sony Electronics Inc. Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a unique set of hardware and software components that provide you with excellent ® TV viewing, recording, and playback experiences. You can watch and record your favorite TV programs from your computer, create custom playlists, and play your Video Capsules on other compatible computers.
Page 140 VAIO Product Registration is an integrated registration software program for both Sony Electronics Inc. and Microsoft Corporation. By registering with Sony, you enable Sony to notify you of software and hardware issues that may affect your user experience. Microsoft directs the data to Sony Electronics Inc. Sony uses the registration data for warranty and product support purposes and the analysis of customer feedback on Sony computer features.
Page 141 800-275-2273 DigiOn, Inc., and Easy Systems Ltd., Japan web site (For Drag'n Drop CD+DVD) http://www.ddcd.jp/dd3e/sony/cd (For RecordNow) http://www.easy.co.jp/jrn45/sony Everquest (Sony Online Entertainment Inc.) web site http://www.everquest.com telephone 858-537-0898 e-mail eqtech@soe.sony.com hours M - F, 9 AM - 6 PM PST InterVideo, Inc.
Page 142 MoodLogic, Inc. web site http://www.moodlogic.com/support e-mail help@moodlogic.com RealNetworks, Inc. web site(s) http://service.real.com/rjoptions.html telephone 206-674-2680 Sony Pictures Digital Networks web site http://mediasoftware.sonypictures.com/support/default.asp Sony Electronics Inc. web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport telephone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Symantec Corp.
Page 143: Resources For Additional Help And Support
Sony Online Support Web site Online help and support are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, when you visit the Sony Online Support Web site. You can access the Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

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