Welcome...7 Powering Your Computer ...9 Using AC Power...10 Connecting the AC adapter...10 Turning on the computer...11 Using the Battery...13 Inserting a battery ...13 Removing a battery ...14 Using a second battery ...15 Displaying battery information...17 Charging a battery...20 Notes on batteries...22 Frequently asked questions ...22 Conserving Battery Power ...23 Using power saving modes ...23...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting Another VAIO Computer ... 50 Connecting VAIO computers... 50 Disconnecting VAIO computers... 52 Frequently asked questions ... 52 CDs, DVDs, and Optical Drives...55 Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs ... 56 Copying and Playing CDs... 58 Playing CDs ...
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Removing Memory Stick media ...99 Frequently asked questions ...100 Using the Language Option...102 Changing Numbers, Currency, Time, and Date Formats 103 Changing the Window Design of Sony Programs ..104 Connecting Mice and Keyboards...105 Using External Mice and Keyboards ...106 Connecting a mouse or keyboard...106 Disconnecting a mouse or keyboard ...108...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Floppy Disk Drives and PC Cards ...111 Using Floppy Disk Drives ... 112 Connecting a floppy disk drive ... 112 Inserting and removing floppy disks... 113 Notes on handling floppy disks... 114 Disconnecting a floppy disk drive ... 115 Carrying the floppy disk drive ...
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Recording images to a digital video device ...150 Adjusting image resolution ...150 Saving to your hard disk drive ...150 Program Support Information ...152 Sony Service Center...153 Memory Upgrades ...155 Upgrading Your Computer’s Memory ...156 Precautions and procedures ...156 Typical expansion memory configuration ...157 Removing and installing memory modules ...157...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Port Replicators ...161 Connecting the Port Replicator... 162 Locating features and ports ... 162 Using the Recovery CDs ...165 Application and System Recovery CDs... 166 Using Your Recovery CDs ... 166 Using the Application Recovery CD(s) ... 166 Using the System Recovery CD(s) ...
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the online VAIO® Computer User Guide. This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software programs.
Powering Your Computer Your VAIO® computer comes with a battery and an AC adapter. This chapter explains how to install and use these supplied accessories to power your computer. It also describes ways you can efficiently utilize the battery as a power source. ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using AC Power The supplied battery is not charged when you receive your computer. To use your computer immediately, use the supplied AC adapter as the power source. While the computer uses AC power, it automatically charges the battery if it is inserted. See “Using the Battery”...
Turning on the computer To turn on the computer Slide the release lever to the right, and lift the cover while holding the bottom of the computer firmly. Opening the Computer R e l e a s e l e v e r Press the power button until the power indicator turns on.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start ❑ To increase light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then ❑ To decrease light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then...
Using the Battery A battery is an auxiliary power source you can use when your computer is not plugged into an AC outlet. Your computer may come equipped with one or two battery bays, depending on the model you purchased. If your computer comes with two battery bays, you can purchase a second rechargeable battery to extend your computing time.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Slide the battery into the battery bay. If the computer is on, it automatically detects the battery. Inserting a Battery Push the battery bay cover up until it clicks into place. ✍ If a port replicator is attached to your computer, do not insert or remove the battery. Lifting and turning the computer with the port replicator attached could cause a temporary loss of power.
To remove a battery Push the battery bay cover down to open it. Pull the battery out of the battery bay. Removing a Battery Push in and lift up the battery bay cover until it clicks into place. Using a second battery To insert a second battery If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove that device.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into place. The weight saver stabilizes the battery. Inserting the Weight Saver B a t t e r y W e i g h t s a v e r Make sure the Release lever is in the LOCK position.
Turn the computer over, and unlock the multipurpose bay release lever. Unlocking the Release Levers R e l e a s e l e v e r o n b o t t o m o f c o m p u t e r Pull the weight saver and battery gently from the multipurpose bay.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Battery Information Toolbar ❑ Percentage indicator — Displays the percentage of the remaining capacity. ❑ Time indicator — Displays estimated time (hours : minutes) remaining before the battery fully discharges, also known as the time-to-empty. To close the Battery Information toolbar Right-click the Battery Information toolbar.
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Battery Information Window ❑ Power Profile — Displays power management settings for various devices on your system. You can change the settings to conserve power. ❑ Battery tab — Displays the total charge remaining in the battery. You can click Advanced for specific information on the battery. ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Battery icon Battery status Charging Fully charged Discharging No battery Charging a battery You will need to charge the battery if battery power drops below 10 percent or you have not used the battery for a considerable amount of time. The lithium-ion battery supplied with your computer may be recharged at any time, whether you wait until the battery is completely or partially discharged.
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Insert the battery into the battery bay. If you want to charge more than one battery, insert the second battery into the computer. See “To insert a second battery” for more information. Connect the AC adapter to the computer. The computer automatically charges the battery as long as the computer is using AC power.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Notes on batteries ❑ Never leave the battery in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as under direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun. ❑ While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern.
Conserving Battery Power You may use the power saving modes and PowerPanel or power schemes to conserve battery power. Conserving battery power may significantly extend your computing time, depending on how you use your computer. ❑ Using power saving modes ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start ✍ If the computer does not activate Hibernate mode, see “Frequently asked questions” for more information. Using PowerPanel The PowerPanel utility enables you to select and customize a predefined power management profile to conserve battery life. The following table describes all the predefined power management profiles in PowerPanel.
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Profile Icon Description Presentation Keeps the display on at all times while it conserves power. This option is ideal for slide show presentations. You can establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby mode to optimize power management for your system. Camera Optimizes performance and power requirements for camera usage.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start To select a profile Right-click the CPU icon Select Profiles, and click the profile on the shortcut menu. The profile settings are implemented instantly. See “Using PowerPanel” for descriptions of available profiles. When you use the battery to power your computer, your system automatically selects the Maximum Battery Life power management profile by default.
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Power profile Description CPU Control Controls the processor speed. You can select either Performance, Adaptive, Battery Life, or More Battery Life. These selections are listed in order from the greatest to least amount of power consumed. System Standby Controls the time it takes the system to activate the Standby Timer mode when it is idle.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Power profile Description LCD Standby Controls the time it takes the system to switch the computer Timer screen (LCD) to Standby mode when the system is idle. This setting only turns off power to the computer screen. The system itself still functions on full power.
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Conserving Battery Power Why is the battery warm? While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern.
Internet and choosing an Internet service provider (ISP) or setting up an existing account. When you connect to the Internet, you can register your VAIO® computer, use online services, and gain access to Sony Computing Support.
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Connecting a Telephone Cable ✍ Your 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). Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem.
VAIO Computer Quick Start New Connection Wizard Click Next. If the Location Information dialog box appears, follow the on- screen instructions. If it is not already selected, click to select Connect to the Internet, and click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions. Setting up an Ethernet Internet connection Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps, depending...
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To connect an Ethernet cable Locate the Ethernet port on your computer. For location information, see Locating Ports and Controls in the Setting Up chapter of your printed VAIO® Computer Quick Start. Connecting an Ethernet Cable E t h e r n e t p o r t Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your computer’s Ethernet port and the other into the network connection.
VAIO Computer Quick Start New Connection Wizard Click Next. If the Location Information dialog box appears, follow the on- screen instructions. If it is not already selected, click to select Connect to the Internet, and click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions. Customizing your Internet connection The Internet Properties dialog box enables you to change the way you view the Internet.
Make sure the telephone number the program is dialing is correct. ❑ Make sure the software you are using is compatible with the computer’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) ❑ If you are still experiencing problems, use the supplied Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the modem driver software.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Network Connections With a Sony computer, you can easily set up or connect to a variety of networks. The New Connection Wizard and Network Setup Wizard make it easy to gain access to remote and local area networks (LANs) using wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connections.
Using Ethernet and dial-up connections Local area networks (LANs) comprise a group of computers and associated devices within a small geographic area, such as a home or office building. For setting up LANs, Ethernet is a widely installed technology. Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps, depending on the Ethernet cable.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start The Network Setup Wizard Click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions. Only connect 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet port not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone cable. Connecting cables other than those listed above may result in an electric current overload and could cause a malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the port.
Using wireless LAN connections A wireless local area network (LAN) is a network in which you can connect to a LAN through a wireless (radio) connection. You can opt to purchase a Sony Wireless LAN Access Point to set up a LAN.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start wireless LAN. The access point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range. ❑ A computer-to-computer (ad-hoc) network is one in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other central controller or access point.
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Connecting to a Wireless LAN Select a network from the Available networks list box. Type the network key of the available network in the Network key box. See your network administrator for this information. Click Connect. To set up a wireless network Move the Wireless LAN switch to ON or insert a Wireless LAN PC Card into the PC Card slot.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Setting Wireless Network Connection Properties Type up to 32 ASCII characters in the Network name (SSID) box. Click to select the Data encryption (WEP enabled) check box. Click to select the Network Authentication (Shared mode) check box. Click to cancel the The key is provided for me automatically check box.
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To set up a computer-to-computer (ad-hoc) network Move the Wireless LAN switch to ON or insert a Wireless LAN PC Card into the PC Card slot. See “Inserting PC Cards” for more information. The Wireless LAN indicator turns on. From the Start menu, click Control Panel, Network and Internet Connections, and then click Network Connections.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Click to select the Network Authentication (Shared mode) check box. Click to cancel the The key is provided for me automatically check box. Type between 5 to 13 ASCII characters or 10 to 26 hexadecimal characters in the Network key box.
Checking your network connection status Whether you have a wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connection, you can check the status of that connection by double-clicking the Wireless Network Connection icon on your taskbar. The Wireless Network Connection Status window appears. Wireless Network Connection Status Window Frequently asked questions Why can’t my computer connect to a wireless LAN access point? ❑...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Right-click Wireless Network Connection, and select Properties. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears. Select the Wireless Networks tab, and make sure the access point is displayed in the Available networks box. If it is not displayed, see “To connect to an existing wireless network”...
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Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels. Third-party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices. If you are using a wireless LAN access point, refer to connectivity information contained in your access point instructions.
Click Network and Internet Connections, and click Set up or change your home or small office network. The Network Setup Wizard appears. 1 i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used 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.
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The Network Setup Wizard window Follow the on-screen Network Setup Wizard instructions. When you are prompted, type in a unique computer name for each computer. You will use this unique name to differentiate the two computers once they are networked together. ✍...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting Another Computer 1 The computers shown in this graphic are for illustration purposes and may not resemble your computer. Disconnecting VAIO computers You can disconnect two VAIO computers when the computers are on or off. To disconnect VAIO computers when the computers are on Close all open files that are shared with the connected computers.
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(Standby or Hibernate), restart both computers. For more information, see “Connecting VAIO computers.” 1 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.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs ✍ Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CDs or DVDs. Adhesive labels may damage the optical drive if they come off while the disc is in the drive. To insert a CD or DVD Turn on the computer or exit a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) if one is active.
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Inserting a Disc D i s c ( l a b e l f a c i n g u p ) Press the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place. If you do not seat the disc firmly over the hub, the disc may come loose while it is in the drive.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Copying and Playing CDs Your optical drive can read CDs and DVDs. The type of optical drive installed in or connected to your computer may vary, depending on the model you purchased. If you are using a CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive, you can write data to CD-Rs and CD-RWs.
Connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer. ❑ Use CD-Rs that are compatible with 16x speed. ❑ Insert the disc into the optical drive, and open the preinstalled Sony SonicStage™ program by clicking Start, All Programs, and then SonicStage. ❑...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Click SonicStage Software. ❑ Once you finish copying files to a CD-R that is readable in a CD-ROM drive, click Finish to complete the writing process before you eject the disc from the optical drive. Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc.
Playing DVDs You can play DVDs in your computer’s optical drive and view the video on a TV. The type of optical drive installed in or connected to your computer may vary, depending on the model you purchased. ❑ Connecting your computer to a TV ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting a TV A / V O U T j a c k Switch the TV input channel to external input. ✍ See the guide that came with your peripheral device for more information on its installation and use.
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❑ Press the Fn+F8 key combination to select either the computer screen (LCD) or an external display. See “Selecting a display mode” for more information. The Fn+F8 key combination will not work once a DVD is inserted into the optical drive. Switching the display while a DVD is playing may cause the computer to malfunction, and you may need to restart the DVD software.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Some discs recorded at 20 or 24 bits may produce noise while playing. If you have audio devices connected, this may damage your hearing and the speakers. Reduce the volume before playing a DVD. Do not switch the power saving modes while you are playing the DVD. Do not use memory-resident utility software to speed up disc access.
To play a DVD while using battery power Set the power management profile to DVD. Close all open programs. Right-click the CPU icon Select Profiles from the shortcut menu, and then select DVD from the submenu. You can also select Automatic Profile Selection, which sets the power management profile to DVD whenever a DVD is inserted into the optical drive.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start with water, wring it out well, and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the center out. Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry, soft cloth. ❑ Do not clean the disc with solvents (such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners, or anti-static spray), which may damage the disc.
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Restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete, and selecting Restart from the Shut Down menu of the Windows Task Manger dialog box. Remove the CD or DVD from the optical drive. Check the disc for dirt or damage. If you need to clean the disc, see “How do I maintain CDs and DVDs?”...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Why did the computer screen (LCD) go blank? ❑ Your computer screen may go blank if the computer has lost power or has entered a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate). If the computer is in LCD (Video) Standby mode, press any key to activate the computer screen.
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How do I switch the computer screen (LCD) from LCD to TV? Press Fn+F8 to select either the computer or TV display. See “Selecting a display mode” for more information. The Fn+F8 key combination will not work once a DVD is inserted into the optical drive.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Printing With Your Computer You can connect a universal serial bus (USB) printer or a parallel port printer to your computer. To print properly, the printer you connect must be compatible with the Microsoft® Windows® operating system installed on your computer. ❑...
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Connecting a USB Printer Cable U S B p o r t s ✍ See the guide that came with the USB printer for more information on its installation and use. To connect a parallel port printer Locate the Printer port Plug the printer cable into the Printer port Plug the other end of the printer cable into the port on the printer.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting a Parallel Port Printer p a r a l l e l p o r t P a r a l l e l c o n n e c t o r ✍ See the guide that came with the parallel port printer for more information on its installation and use.
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Select the Port Settings tab, and select a different LPT Port Number. ❑ You may need to enable the computer’s printer settings. Click Start, and point to All Programs, Sony Notebook Setup, and click Sony Notebook Setup again. Click the Device tab.
Computer Features ❑ Using the Keyboard ❑ Using the Touch Pad ❑ Using the Jog Dial Control ❑ Using Memory Stick Media ❑ Using the Language Option ❑ Changing the Window Design of Sony Programs...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but your computer keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. ❑ Key locations and descriptions ❑ Combinations and functions with the Windows key ❑...
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Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of the numeric keys. Press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Description Windows key The key with the Microsoft® Windows® operating system logo displays the Start menu; it is the equivalent of clicking Start on the taskbar. See “Combinations and functions with the Windows key” for more information. Fn key The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to issue commands.
Combination Function Shift + Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of selecting Run from the Start menu. Fn + + Insert Displays the System Properties window. This is the equivalent of selecting Control Panel, and then System from the Start menu.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Indicator Function Caps Lock Turns on when the letters appear in uppercase as you type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on. When the indicator is off, the letters appear in lower case as you type (unless you hold down the Shift key).
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Combinations/ Feature Function Fn + Toggles between the computer screen (LCD), a connected L C D (F7) external display, and both the LCD and external display. Switch to the external monitor/LCD Select one display at a time to playback DVDs. Connect the cable before you turn on the computer, otherwise Fn+F7 will not work.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start ✍ You can also carry out these functions using the Jog Dial™ Control. Some functions are not available until the Microsoft® Windows® operating system launches.
Using the Touch Pad The keyboard contains a pointing device called a touch pad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touch pad. ❑ Describing the touch pad ❑ Customizing the touch pad ❑...
Customizing the touch pad Sony Notebook Setup lets you customize your touch pad, such as enable or disable the touch pad. You can also open the Mouse Properties dialog box, which enables you to set your touch pad and mouse preferences, such as changing pointers, enabling or disabling the tapping feature, clicking both buttons simultaneously, and adjusting the touch pad speed.
Press the Right Arrow key Press the Tab key to select the Default button, and press Enter. A pop-up window appears. Press the Left Arrow key Touchpad option is automatically selected. Press the Tab key to select the Apply button, and press Enter. Click OK.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start ❑ You may need to use your Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the mouse drivers. See “Using the Application Recovery CD(s)” for more information. Why doesn’t the pointer move when I use the touch pad? ❑ Try restarting your computer.
Using the Jog Dial Control Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ Control and Jog Dial Navigator software, which enables you to scroll through programs, folders, and documents from a predefined list. The Jog Dial Control and Jog Dial Navigator are compatible with preinstalled software programs that support Jog Dial Navigator functions.
VAIO Computer Quick Start ❑ Press the Back button (on selected models) to return to the previous menu. ✍ If your computer does not come with a Back button, you can select Return on the Jog Dial Launcher to go back to the previous menu. Using the Jog Dial Navigator icon The Jog Dial™...
Features Launcher button Mode button Help button To move, hide, or close the Jog Dial bar ❑ Click and drag the Jog Dial Bar to another location on the desktop. ❑ Click the Close button ❑ Right-click the Jog Dial Bar, and select Hide Jog Dial Bar from the shortcut menu.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Jog Dial Launcher Press the Jog Dial Control. Using Application and Scroll modes Jog Dial Navigator operates in one of two modes: Scroll or Application. Once a program is open, you can easily switch modes. Mode Description Application Enables you to perform operations for specific...
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Jog Dial Navigator (Guide Display) Jog Dial Navigator windows Descriptions Guide Display Appears when a program that supports Jog Dial Navigator has audio features, such as volume control. This shows the operation guide for the Jog Dial Control. List Display Appears when a program that supports Jog Dial Navigator is active.
VAIO Computer Quick Start ❑ On the Jog Dial Navigator List Display, select SCROLL MODE and press the Jog Dial Control. Selecting Scroll Mode from Application Mode Changing Jog Dial Navigator settings You can change the Jog Dial Navigator settings to modify the Jog Dial Navigator functionality and appearance.
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To change settings Click the Jog Dial Setting button dialog box appears. Jog Dial Setting Dialog Box Click the tabs near the top of the dialog box to view options, and then make your changes. Click Apply, and then click OK. For information about Jog Dial settings, right-click the Jog Dial Navigator icon on the taskbar, and click Help.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using Memory Stick Media This compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. The medium is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, the media can be used for external data storage.
Memory Stick media. From this window, you can choose to view, print, copy or organize your Memory Stick images or data. If the Sony Memory Stick window does not appear when you insert your Memory Stick media, then follow these steps:...
To view the contents From the Start menu, click My Computer. The My Computer window appears. Click Sony MemoryStick. The Sony MemoryStick window appears, displaying the contents stored on the Memory Stick media. Write-protecting Memory Stick media Memory Stick® media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
From the Start menu, click My Computer. The My Computer window appears. Right-click Sony MemoryStick, and click Format from the menu. The Format Sony MemoryStick dialog box appears. Select Quick Format in the Format options box, and then click Start.
❑ Sony is not responsible for music files that cannot be recorded from a CD or downloaded from other sources. Can I copy images from a digital video camera using Memory Stick media? Yes, and you can view video clips that you have recorded with Memory Stick media-compatible video camera recorders.
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❑ Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the media. ❑ Do not disassemble or modify the media. ❑ Do not allow the media to get wet. How do I extend the life of the Memory Stick media? ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using the Language Option (Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional only) After you have initially setup your new VAIO® computer, you can change the language displayed by the Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional operating system. Menus, help files, and icons generated by Windows XP Professional are shown in your selected language.
Changing Numbers, Currency, Time, and Date Formats You can change your operating system’s number, currency, time, and date formats to coordinate with your chosen country or language settings. To change these formats Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then click Control Panel. Click Date, Time, Language and Regional Options, and click Regional and Language Options.
Click << or >> to view the designs. Click Apply to select a design that appears in the center window. The UI Design Selector window design changes. The window design for your Sony software will match the UI Design Selector window.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using External Mice and Keyboards You can connect a universal serial bus (USB) mouse or keyboard to your computer. To function properly, the device you connect must be compatible with the Microsoft® Windows® operating system installed on your computer. For information about your computer’s built-in keyboard and key functions, see “Using the Keyboard”...
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Connecting a USB Mouse or Keyboard U S B p o r t s ✍ See the guide that came with your mouse or keyboard for more information on its installation and use. To connect a PS/2® mouse or keyboard to your port replicator Locate the USB port station.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting a PS/2 Mouse or Keyboard to a Port Replicator U S B p o r t s Disconnecting a mouse or keyboard You can disconnect a USB mouse or keyboard when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the USB mouse or keyboard when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
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❑ You may need to install or reinstall the mouse driver software. Use the supplied Application Recovery CD(s). See “Using the Application Recovery CD(s)” for more information. ❑ If you are playing a disc, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously to stop playback and restart the computer.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using Floppy Disk Drives You can connect a floppy disk drive to your computer or port replicator. The floppy disk drive enables you to read data stored on a floppy disk. ❑ Connecting a floppy disk drive ❑...
Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive F l o p p y d i s k d r i v e Inserting and removing floppy disks Floppy disks are portable devices that store data. To protect your floppy disks, keep them away from magnets and direct sunlight or other heat sources. To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label facing up.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Inserting a Floppy Disk F l o p p y d i s k d r i v e ✍ Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the floppy disk. To remove a floppy disk Close all programs that were opened from the disk and wait for the LED indicator to turn off.
Disconnecting a floppy disk drive You can disconnect a floppy disk drive when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a floppy disk drive Close any active programs to prevent data loss.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Frequently asked questions Why doesn’t the Safety Remove Hardware icon the drive is connected? The computer does not recognize the floppy disk drive. First, make sure the USB cable is properly connected to the USB port. If you need to secure the connection, wait a few moments for the computer to recognize the drive.
You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. To open Sony Notebook Setup Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then click All Programs. Point to Sony Notebook Setup, and click Sony Notebook Setup. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. To insert a PC Card Make sure the front label of the PC Card is facing up.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. When a PC Card is inserted, do not place your computer in a bag or case. Pressure or shock to a PC Card may damage your computer. Touching the head of the PC Card will not damage the connector pins, but damage may occur if the head of the PC Card is sticking out of the PC Card slot while the computer is being transported.
The PC Card drive enables you to read data stored on a DVD or CD. Your computer may come with an external PC Card drive, depending on the model you purchased. If you wish to purchase an optional PC Card drive, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Remove the PC Card from the bottom of the optical drive. Removing a PC Card Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the arrow facing the slot. See “To insert a PC Card” for more information. Connecting a PC Card drive ✍...
Make sure the PC Card is compatible with the Microsoft® Windows® operating system installed on your computer. ❑ Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. See “To open Sony Notebook Setup” for more information. ❑...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start ❑ You may not be able to use some PC Cards or some functions of the PC Card with this computer. Check the guide that came with your PC Card for more information on its use. Why does an exclamation mark (!) appear on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties dialog box? You may not be using the most recent driver software provided by the PC Card...
The Found New Hardware window appears on the lower right corner of your screen. 1 i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connector. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software application, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Connecting an i.LINK Digital Video Camera Recorder D i g i t a l v i d e o c a m e r a r e c o r d e r ✍ See the guide that came with your digital video camera recorder for more information on its installation and use.
Using a digital video camera recorder Your computer comes with preinstalled driver software that is compatible with most Sony digital video camera recorders. If you purchased a camera that comes with its own driver software, install these drivers before you use the camera.
See “Connecting an i.LINK digital video recorder” for more information. 1 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.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Using Computer Monitors and Projectors You can connect an external display (such as a computer monitor or a projector) to your computer, port replicator, or docking station. ❑ Connecting a computer monitor ❑ Connecting a multimedia computer monitor ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting a multimedia computer monitor A multimedia computer monitor has built-in speakers and/or a microphone device. Before you can connect your computer to a multimedia computer monitor, it must have an A/V OUT jack. For more information, see “Locating Controls and Ports”...
Plug the other end of the audio cable into the projector. Turn on the projector (if it is not already on), and then turn on the computer. Press the Fn+F7 key combination to toggle the display between your computer and the projector. See “Selecting a display mode” for more information.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Shortcut keys Result Toggles between the computer screen (LCD), a connected L C D (F7) external display (projector or computer monitor), and both the LCD and external display. Select one display at a time. Connect the cable before you turn on the computer, otherwise Fn+F7 will not work.
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(Multiple Monitors) and Mobility Radeon Properties screen Click the Displays tab and select the display settings by clicking the icon on the panel of your display choice. For more information, click Help. ✍ If you cannot see your movie or DVD on the external display, change the monitor or TV setting by clicking on the Secondary ✍...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector You can disconnect the external computer monitor or projector by unplugging the display or Monitor (VGA) cable from your computer’s port. Disconnecting the external display when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
If you want to purchase speakers, make sure the speakers are designed for computer use. You can shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer. ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Connecting External Speakers H e a d p h o n e j a c k ✍ See the guide that came with your speakers for more information on its installation and use. Disconnecting external speakers You can disconnect external speakers when the computer is on or off.
Click to cancel any Mute check boxes that are selected. Sound device Volume Control Wave SW Synth CD Audio Microphone Telephony PC Beep Line 1 On selected models only. ✍ As a short-cut, you can press the Fn+F4 key combination and the arrow keys to change the volume setting.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Select the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager. The Device Manager window, which lists the hardware devices, appears. Double-click DVD/CD-ROM drives. Double-click the listed drive name, and click the Properties tab. Click the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device check box if it is not already selected.
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Why don’t the Fn+F3 or the Fn+F4 key combinations work? The computer may not recognize the Fn+F3 and Fn+F4 key combinations if the correct speakers are not selected. Follow these steps: Right-click the Volume icon Properties. Select the Audio tab, and click Advanced in the Sound Playback box. The Advanced Audio Properties window appears.
You can connect an external microphone to your computer to enhance the sound input to your computer. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. If you wish to purchase a microphone, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Using a microphone or other device to record You can record messages, memos, or other recordings in analog by connecting a microphone or other audio device to the Microphone jack port replicator, or docking station and switching the jack functionality. The Microphone jack is for MIC IN (monaural).
VAIO Computer Quick Start Frequently asked questions Why doesn’t my microphone work? If you are using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is properly plugged into the Microphone jack on the computer. See “Connecting a microphone” for more information.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Software Programs On Your Computer Your computer may not be supplied with all of the programs listed in “Program overview”, depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled software may not be identical to retail versions or include supporting documentation. ❑...
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DVgate™ Sony Electronics Inc. Connect a compatible digital video camera to your computer’s i.LINK® port and capture video clips and still images. You can edit clips from your video, add new clips, and combine clips into new movie segments.
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Sony Electronics Inc. PictureGear image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica® camera. The images appear in a convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder.
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Internet content. Sony on Yahoo! Yahoo! Inc. Personalize your own Web portal with Sony on Yahoo! Get a free Web mail account, customized news and local weather reports, comics, instant messaging, and more.
VAIO Computer Quick Start VAIO Support Agent Sony Electronics Inc. VAIO Support Agent provides immediate, interactive, online support with information about your preinstalled software and answers to frequently asked questions. WinDVD® InterVideo, Inc. WinDVD 2000 software is a simple-to-use DVD player that offers all the features...
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Which program do I use for CD-R/CD-RW functions? Use the preinstalled Sony SonicStage program and Windows® software to create CDs on your VAIO® computer, if the specific model you purchased is preconfigured with all of the necessary components for CD-R and CD-RW capability.
VAIO Computer Quick Start DVgate Program Notes ❑ Recording images to a digital video device ❑ Adjusting image resolution ❑ Saving to your hard disk drive Recording images to a digital video device If your system displays the message, “Failed to record to DV deck, please check deck’s power status, cable connection…,”...
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To defragment a partition Back up all files you want to save. From the Start menu on the Windows® taskbar, point to All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and then click Disk Defragmenter. The Disk Defragmenter dialog box appears. Select the drive you want to defragment from the list, and click Defragment. See the Microsoft®...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Program Support Information ❑ Sony Service Center Adobe® Acrobat® Reader®, Photoshop® Elements Trial Version (Adobe Systems Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ e-mail techdocs@adobe.com telephone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) 206-628-5737 hours M-F, 6 A.M.-5 P.M. (Pacific time) America Online® (America Online, Inc.) Web site http://www.aol.com/...
888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day 1 Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. Windows® Operating System, Word (Microsoft Corp.) Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport telephone...
Sony recommends that memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, go to: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
❑ Do not open the memory module package until you are ready to install the module. The package protects the module from ESD. ❑ Use the special protective package to store a memory module and prevent ESD, or use anti-static wrap. Typical expansion memory configuration Total System Memory (MB) Removing and installing memory modules...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Removing the Bottom Screws Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your computer) to discharge static electricity. Remove the memory module by pulling out the tabs (see arrows No. 1), and pulling out the module in the direction of arrow No.
To check your system’s memory Turn on the computer. Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, point to All Programs, and then point to Sony Notebook Setup. Upgrading Your Computer’s Memory M e m o r y m o d u l e...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Select Sony Notebook Setup from the submenu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. On the About This Computer tab, make sure the System Memory displayed in the System Information box matches the amount of memory installed.
(attached) devices. Your computer may come with a port replicator, depending on the model you purchased. If you wish to purchase an optional port replicator, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
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To connect a port replicator Close any active programs to prevent data loss. Turn off the computer, and disconnect all peripheral (attached) devices. Close the tilt stands before you attach the port replicator to the computer. Plug the AC adapter connector into the DC IN jack on the port replicator, and plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Align the connector on the bottom of the computer with the port replicator connector, and push the computer down until it clicks into place. Connecting a Port Replicator Turn on the computer. ✍ When attaching your computer to the port replicator, do not attempt to insert or remove the battery.
Recovery CDs. You will need an optical drive to use these recovery CDs. If your computer does not come with an optical drive, use an external optical drive. Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual software programs and device drivers if they become corrupted or are erased.
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Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all open programs. Logon to the Microsoft® Windows® desktop. Insert Sony Application Recovery CD No. 1 into your computer’s optical drive. The Application Recovery utility loads automatically. Click OK in the VAIO welcome window. The Sony Application Recovery Program window appears.
CD(s), depending on the application or driver you want to restore. If you have any questions about using the Application Recovery CD(s), visit http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support, or contact Sony Customer Support at 1- 888-4-SONY-PC. Using the System Recovery CD(s) The System Recovery CD(s) enables you to format your hard disk and to restore all original software programs.
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Your system may take a few minutes to load necessary files. A blue screen may appear during the downloading process. Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the optical drive. The first CD must be in the drive before you restart your computer.
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Press the power button and hold it for more than four seconds to turn off the computer. Turn on the computer. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS Setup Utility appears. Press the right arrow key Press the down arrow key The Setup Confirmation window appears.
Troubleshooting and Support This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). ❑ Troubleshooting Your Computer ❑ Troubleshooting Batteries ❑...
VAIO Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting Your Computer Why doesn’t my computer start? ❑ Make sure the computer is securely plugged into a power source and is on. Make sure the power indicator shows the power is on. See “Connecting the AC adapter”...
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Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts. ✍ If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). Why does the message, “Operating system not found” appear when my computer starts, and why won’t Windows start? ❑...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Press the Down Arrow key message Load default values for all SETUP items appears. Press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears. Select Yes, and press Enter. 10 Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears again.
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Why won’t the power management respond? Your computer’s operating system may become unstable if a lower power state, such as Hibernate, is initiated and changed before the computer completely enters the lower power state. To restore the computer to its normal operating stability Close all open programs.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting Batteries How do I know when the battery is charged? To determine the remaining battery charge, see “Displaying battery information.” When is the computer using AC power? When the computer is directly connected to the AC adapter, it uses AC power, even if a battery is installed.
Select the Port Settings tab, and select a different LPT Port Number. ❑ You may need to set or reset your computer’s printer settings. Click Start, and point to All Programs, Sony Notebook Setup, and click Sony Notebook Setup again. Click the Device tab.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start In the left panel, make sure the Printer Port check box is selected, and click Settings. In the Printer port mode box, click the ECP option. Click OK.
Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touch Pad Why doesn’t the computer recognize the USB mouse? ❑ Make sure the mouse is securely plugged into the USB port. See “Connecting a mouse or keyboard” for more information. ❑ You may need to install or reinstall the mouse driver software. Use the supplied Application Recovery CD to install the drivers.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Press the Windows appears. Click the Tools menu, and select Folder Options. The Folder Options dialog box appears. In the Click items as follows box, click to select Single-click to open an item (point to select). Click Apply.
Make sure the telephone number the program is dialing is correct. ❑ Make sure the program you are using is compatible with the computer’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) ❑ If you are still experiencing problems, use the supplied Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the modem driver software.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting Networks Why can’t my computer connect to a wireless LAN access point? ❑ Connection availability is affected by distance and obstructions. You may need to move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using.
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the data transfer speed, move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using. ❑ If you are using a wireless LAN access point, the device may be temporarily overloaded depending on the number of other devices communicating via the access point.
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(Standby or Hibernate), restart both computers. For more information, see “Connecting VAIO computers.” 1 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.
Troubleshooting DVDs and CDs How do I maintain DVDs? ❑ Avoid touching the surface of the disc with your fingers. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of the disc may cause reading errors. ❑ To clean the disc, hold the edge of the disc, and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Why isn’t the optical drive playing my CD or DVD properly? ❑ Make sure the disc label is facing up. ❑ If the disc requires software, make sure the software is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. ❑...
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Click the Properties tab, and click to select the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device check box. Why did the computer screen (LCD) go blank? ❑ Your computer screen may go blank if the computer has lost power or is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate).
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VAIO Computer Quick Start Move the screen resolution slider to the left to reduce the size and to the right to increase the size of the video resolution. How do I switch the computer screen (LCD) from LCD to TV? Press Fn+F8 to select either the computer or TV display.
Troubleshooting Floppy Disk Drives Why doesn’t the Safety Remove Hardware icon the drive is connected? The computer does not recognize that the floppy disk drive is connected to the computer. First, make sure the USB connector is properly inserted into the USB port.
Make sure the PC Card is compatible with the Microsoft® Windows® operating system installed on your computer. ❑ Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. See “To open Sony Notebook Setup” for more information. ❑...
See that program’s help file for more information. 1 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.
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VAIO Computer Quick Start ❑ Your speakers may be set to mute, the volume setting may be too low, or the audio option may be disabled. See “Adjusting the volume” and “Enabling the audio feature” for more information. Why don’t the Fn+F3 or the Fn+F4 key combinations work? The computer may not recognize the Fn+F3 and Fn+F4 key combinations if the correct speakers are not selected.
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Troubleshooting Audio-Video Connections Close the Profile Editor window. Why doesn’t my microphone work? If you are using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is properly plugged into the Microphone jack on the computer. See “Connecting a microphone” for more information.
VAIO Computer Quick Start Troubleshooting the Computer Screen (LCD) Why did the computer screen (LCD) go blank? ❑ Your computer screen may go blank if the computer has lost power or is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate). ❑...
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Troubleshooting the Computer Screen (LCD) How do I switch the computer screen (LCD) from LCD to TV? See “Selecting a display mode” for instructions on how to switch the display mode to LCD and TV.
❑ Sony is not responsible for music files that cannot be recorded from a CD or downloaded from other sources. Can I copy images from a digital video camera using Memory Stick media? Yes, and you can view video clips that you have recorded with Memory Stick media-compatible video camera recorders.
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❑ Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the media. ❑ Do not disassemble or modify the media. ❑ Do not allow the media to get wet. How do I extend the life of the Memory Stick media? ❑...
Which program do I use for CD-R/CD-RW functions? Use the preinstalled Sony SonicStage software and Windows® software to create CDs on your VAIO® computer, if the specific model you purchased is preconfigured with all of the necessary components for CD-R and CD-RW...
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Troubleshooting Programs You can also download the RealJukebox CD-burning component to create CDs, but it may interfere with your computer’s normal system operations. Why can’t I use the DVgate program? If your computer is using the Ultimate Battery Life profile as a power saving mode, you cannot use DVgate™...
VAIO Support Agent You can find VAIO Support Agent by clicking Start and selecting Help and Support. Using advanced diagnostic technology, Sony’s VAIO Support Agent runs scheduled protections of your programs, network settings, and other important program settings. When your program is protected, you can use VAIO Support Agent to repair program problems by restoring the program to any of the previously protected states.
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AC adapter connecting AC Profile power setting adding memory Application Recovery CD Applications key arrow keys audio connecting microphone connecting speakers audio-video (AV) connecting connecting i.LINK bass boost battery power saving modes battery pack inserting second pack notes battery packs charge status icons charging indicator lights...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start coin-operated telephones Computer online support computer connecting computers online support troubleshooting connecting coin-operated telephones computers dial-up digital video recorder Ethernet floppy disk drive hard drives i.LINK device Internet microphone multimedia computer display multiple phone lines network party phone lines port replicator printer...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start 56, 57 opening tray party phone lines PC Card inserting using port replicator AC adapter connecting ports printer Serial port power power button Power Management Off power setting power saving modes 23, 83 Hibernate Standby power setting AC Profile Maximum Battery Life Maximum Performance...
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Scroll Lock indicator light search second battery pack inserting removing Serial port software changing window design DVgate support information Software list Sony Service Center speakers built-in connecting off and on volume Standby mode support software System Recovery CD telephone connecting line...
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VAIO Computer Quick Start connecting printer using PC Card video camera volume speakers window design of Sony software Windows Find window help Windows key combinations and functions Wireless LAN indicator light...