Page 1 Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO computer, and welcome to the online VAIO Computer User Guide. ® ® This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software programs.
Page 2: Powering Your Computer
Powering Your Computer Your VAIO computer comes with a battery and an AC adapter. This chapter explains how to install and use these supplied ® accessories to power your computer. It also describes ways you can efficiently utilize the battery as a power source. ...
Page 3: Using Ac Power
Using AC Power The supplied battery is not charged when you receive your computer. To use your computer immediately, use the supplied AC adapter as the power source. While the computer uses AC power, it automatically charges the battery if it is inserted. Using the Battery for more information on installing and using your battery.
Page 4 Connecting the AC adapter To connect the AC adapter Plug the AC adapter cable into the DC IN port. Connecting the AC Adapter to the Com puter Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. Use only the supplied AC adapter with your computer. Page 4...
Page 5 Turning on the computer To turn on the computer Lift the lid of the computer by sliding the front switch to the right and lifting the lid. You may need to hold the bottom of the computer firmly to lift the lid. Opening the Com puter Slide the power switch to the right until the power indicator turns on.
Page 6: Using The Battery
Using the Battery Your computer, depending on the model you purchased, may come equipped with one battery bay and one multipurpose bay that supports a second battery. If your computer comes with two bays, you can purchase a second rechargeable battery to extend your computing time.
Page 7 Inserting a battery To insert a battery Turn the computer over, and slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position. Align the grooves on the battery with the tabs on the back of the computer. Inserting a Battery Slide the battery into the computer until it clicks into place.
Page 8 Removing a battery If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery from the computer to avoid damaging the battery. You can remove the battery when the computer is on or off. If the computer is on, connect the AC adapter and exit a power saving mode before you remove the battery. To remove a battery Turn the computer over, and slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position.
Page 9 Locating battery information You can display information for the battery installed in your computer. To view battery information Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and click Control Panel. ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click Power Options. The Power Options Properties window appears.
Page 10 Charging a battery You will need to charge the battery if battery power drops below 10 percent or you have not used the battery for a long time. The lithium-ion battery supplied with your computer may be recharged at any time, whether you wait until the battery is completely or partially discharged.
Page 11 Notes on batteries  Never leave the battery in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as under direct sunlight or in a car parked in the sun.  While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern. ...
Page 12 Frequently asked questions How do I know when the battery is charged? To determine the remaining battery charge, see Locating battery information. When is the computer using AC power? When the computer is directly connected to the AC adapter, it uses AC power, even if a battery is installed. When should I recharge the battery? ...
Page 13: Conserving Battery Power
Conserving Battery Power You may use the power saving modes and PowerPanel utility or power schemes to conserve battery power. Conserving battery power may significantly extend your computing time, depending on how you use your computer.  Using power saving modes ...
Page 14 Using power saving modes In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices to save power, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate. Use the Standby and Hibernate power saving modes to override a power profile setting and initiate immediate action.
Page 15 Using PowerPanel utility The PowerPanel utility enables you to select and customize a predefined power management profile to conserve battery life. The following table describes all the predefined power management profiles in PowerPanel. Your computer is set to Maximum Battery Life by default. You can customize the settings for all the following profiles, except the Disable Power Management profile.
Page 16 Do not choose the Automatic Profile Selection when connected to AC power. To select a profile Right-click the CPU icon on the Taskbar Notification area. Select Profiles, and click the profile name on the shortcut menu. The profile settings are implemented instantly. Using PowerPanel utility for descriptions of available profiles.
Page 17 one being the darkest setting. The darker you set the computer screen the more power you conserve. LCD Standby Timer Controls the time it takes the system to turn off power to the computer screen (LCD) when the system is idle. The system itself still functions on full power. HDD Standby Timer Controls the time it takes the system to turn off power to the hard disk drive when the system is idle.
Page 18 Frequently asked questions Can my computer enter Hibernate mode while using battery power? Your computer can enter Hibernate mode while using battery power, but some software programs and peripheral devices prevent the system from entering Hibernate mode at all. If you are using a program that prevents the system from entering Hibernate mode, save your data frequently.
Page 19: Internet And Network Connections
Internet and Network Connections  Internet Connections  Network Connections  Connecting Another VAIO Computer Page 19...
Page 20: Internet Connections
Connection Wizard guides you through the process of connecting to the Internet and choosing an Internet service provider (ISP) or setting up an existing account. When you connect to the Internet, you can register your VAIO computer, use online ® services, and gain access to Sony Computing Support.  Setting up a dial-up Internet connection ...
Page 21 Setting up a dial-up Internet connection Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line via a telephone cable (not supplied). Once you set up your telephone cable, you're ready to connect to the Internet. To connect a telephone cable Locate the Modem jack on your computer.
Page 22 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. Page 22...
Page 23 Setting up an Ethernet Internet connection Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect an Ethernet cable Locate the Ethernet port on your computer. For location information, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the Setting Up chapter of your printed VAIO Computer Quick Start.
Page 24 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. Page 24...
Page 25 Customizing your Internet connection The Internet Properties dialog box enables you to change the way you view the Internet. You can change your home page, fonts, language, and colors. You can also regulate content and set browsing preferences. To open the Internet Properties dialog box Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then Control Panel.
Page 26  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.) Why is my modem connection slow? Your computer is equipped with a V.90 compatible modem. Many factors may influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment, such as fax machines or other modems.
Page 27: Network Connections
Network Connections With a Sony computer, you can easily set up or connect to a variety of networks. The New Connection Wizard and Network Setup Wizard make it easy to gain access to remote and local area networks (LANs) using wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connections.
Page 28 Using Ethernet and dial-up connections For setting up local area networks (LANs), Ethernet is a widely installed technology. Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect to a local area network using a telephone or Ethernet cable Connect an Ethernet or telephone cable to your computer.
Page 29 Using Ethernet and dial-up connections or contact your network administrator. You can connect to your company network from a remote location and use data, programs, and network resources. See Microsoft Windows Help by clicking Help and Support from the Start menu, and then clicking Networking and the Web in ®...
Page 30 A wireless local area network (LAN) is a network in which you can connect to a LAN through a wireless (radio) connection. You can opt to purchase a Sony Wireless LAN Access Point to set up a LAN. The wireless LAN access point is designed for building a wireless LAN environment. Because a wireless LAN configuration requires no wiring, you can operate multiple computers more freely than ever before.
Page 31 From the Available wireless networks list, select the name of the network (access point) in which you want to connect. If you do not see the network name, see If the network does not appear in the Available wireless networks list box. If required, type the network key in the Network key box.
Page 32 Type the name of the network (access point) you want to connect to in the Network name (SSID) box. (The name should be no more than 32 ASCII characters.) The following steps are for networks that require a network key. If you do not know the network key or are not sure a network key is required, see the network administrator or the guide that accompanied your access point for more information.
Page 33 Click Advanced. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears. Wireless Network Connection Properties Click Add. The Wireless network properties dialog box appears. Wireless Network Properties Page 33...
Page 34 Type the name of the network you want to connect to in the Network name (SSID) box. (The name should be no more than 32 ASCII characters.) Make sure the Data encryption (WEP enabled) check box is selected. Click to cancel the The key is provided for me automatically check box. Type a network key in the Network key box.
Page 35 Click the Wireless Network Connection icon on the taskbar. The Wireless Network Connection Status dialog box appears. Click Properties. The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears. On the Wireless Network tab, click Advanced. The Advanced dialog box appears. Click to select Any available network (access point preferred), and click Close. Page 35...
Page 36 Checking your network connection status Whether you have a wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connection, you can check the status of that connection. To check your network connection status Click Start on the taskbar, and click Control Panel, Network and Internet Connections, and Network Connections.
Page 37 Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels. Third-party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices. If you are using a wireless LAN access point, refer to connectivity information contained in your access point instructions.
Page 38: Connecting Another Vaio Computer
N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
Page 39 Connecting VAIO computers When you connect two VAIO computers, you can use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer. You can also print from a printer attached to either computer. To connect VAIO computers Plug one end of the i.LINK cable into the i.LINK port on each computer. Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and click Control Panel.
Page 40 Disconnecting VAIO computers You can disconnect two VAIO computers when the computers are on or off. ® To disconnect VAIO computers when the computers are on Close all open files that are shared with the connected computers. Unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on each computer.
Page 41: Frequently Asked Questions
N K is a trademark of Sony us ed only to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
Page 42: Cds And Dvds
CDs and DVDs  Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs  Copying and Playing CDs  Playing DVDs Page 42...
Page 43: Inserting And Ejecting Cds Or Dvds
Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CDs or DVDs. Adhesive labels may damage the optical drive if they come off while the disc is in the drive. To insert a disc Turn on the computer or exit a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) if one is active. For more information, Using power saving modes.
Page 44 into the manual eject hole next to the Eject button. Lift the disc from the drive. Push the drive tray gently to close it. Page 44...
Page 45: Copying And Playing Cds
Copying and Playing CDs Your computer comes equipped with a CD-RW/DVD drive, which plays DVD and most DVD-R discs, and reads and writes data to CD-R and CD-RW discs.  Playing CDs  Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R Page 45...
Page 46 Playing CDs Before you play an audio CD, you may need to enable your computer's audio feature. To enable the audio feature Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then click Control Panel, Performance and Maintenance, and System. ® The System Properties dialog box appears. As a shortcut, you can press Fn + the Windows key + Insert to open the System Properties dialog box.
Page 47 O ptic al drive types vary, depending on the model you purc has ed. Page 47...
Page 48 Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R You can copy files to CD-R or CD-RW discs if your VAIO computer is equipped with a CD-RW/DVD drive or DVD-RW drive. ® Before you write data to a CD-RW or CD-R disc, read the following notes to avoid a computer malfunction and ensure the best writing results: ...
Page 49 Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc. T he read/write drive letter des ignation may vary, depending on your s ys tem's hardware c onfiguration. Page 49...
Page 50: Playing Dvds
Playing DVDs You can play DVDs in your computer's optical drive and view the video on the computer screen.  Playing DVDs on your computer  Frequently asked questions Page 50...
Page 51 Playing DVDs on your computer Your computer is equipped with an optical drive that enables you to watch DVDs and most DVD-R discs on your computer. To play a DVD while using AC power Close all open programs. Insert the DVD into the optical drive. Open a preinstalled DVD program, such as WinDVD, by following these steps: Click Start on the taskbar, and point to All Programs.
Page 52 Frequently asked questions How do I maintain CDs and DVDs?  Avoid touching the surface of the disc with your fingers. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of the disc may cause reading errors.  Try using canned compressed air to clean dusty discs. ...
Page 53 What do I do if the optical drive isn't playing my CD or DVD properly?  Make sure the disc was inserted into the drive with the label facing up.  Make sure the necessary program(s) is installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. ...
Page 54  If the display mode is set to external display, use the Fn+F7 key combination. See Selecting a display for more information. Page 54...
Page 55: Printer Connections
Printer Connections  Printing With Your Computer Page 55...
Page 56: Printing With Your Computer
Printing With Your Computer Your computer is compatible with many popular printers. However, to ensure the best performance, printers must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your computer. ® ®  Connecting a printer  Disconnecting a printer ...
Page 57 Connecting a printer You can easily connect a printer to your computer or port replicator (if applicable). The New Hardware Wizard enables you to easily install the printer software, but some printers require separate driver software installation. See the instructions that accompanied your printer for more information.
Page 58 Restart your computer by clicking Start, Turn Off Computer, and Restart. If the New Hardware Wizard appears, follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure the computer recognizes the printer. Follow these steps:  Click Start, Control Panel, Printers and Other Hardware, and then Printers and Faxes. If the computer recognizes the printer, it will be listed in the Printers and Other Hardware window.
Page 59 Disconnecting a printer You can disconnect the printer cable when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting a printer when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a printer Make sure all printing jobs are completed.
Page 60 Frequently asked questions Why can't I print a document?  Make sure the printer is on, and the printer cable is securely connected to the ports on your printer and computer. Connecting a printer for more information.  Make sure the printer is compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your computer.
Page 61: Computer Features
Computer Features  Using the Touch Pad  Using Memory Stick Media  Using the Multilingual User Interface Language Option  Changing the Window Design of Sony Programs Page 61...
Page 62: Using The Touchpad
Using the Touch Pad A pointing device called a touch pad is located in front of the keyboard. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touch pad.  Describing the touch pad ...
Page 63 Describing the touch pad Locating the Touch Pad Touch Pad Action Description Sliding one finger Equivalent to using a mouse to place the pointer on an item. Tapping once Equivalent to pressing the left button once. Tapping twice Equivalent to pressing the left button twice. Sliding one finger while pressing the left button Equivalent to using the mouse to drag an item.
Page 64 Customizing the touch pad Sony Notebook Setup lets you customize, enable, or disable the touch pad. Open the Mouse Properties dialog box to set your touch pad and mouse preferences, such as changing pointers, enabling or disabling the tapping feature, clicking both buttons simultaneously, and adjusting the touch pad speed.
Page 65 Frequently asked questions What do I do if the touch pad does not work?  Try restarting your computer. Follow these steps: Press the Windows key Press U. The Turn off computer window opens. Press R to restart the computer. ...
Page 66: Using Memory Stick Media
Using Memory Stick Media This compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity exceeding that of a floppy disk. Memory Stick ® media is specially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, the media can be used for external data storage.
Page 67 Selecting Memory Stick media Your VAIO computer is equipped with a Memory Stick slot that supports certain types of Memory Stick media. ® ® ® Page 67...
Page 68 Currently, Sony SonicStage and OpenMG software are not compatible with the new Memory Stick PRO media. Sony ® suggests using only MG Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage or OpenMG software. Visit the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport...
Page 69 Inserting Memory Stick media The media slot accommodates only one Memory Stick media at a time. To insert Memory Stick media Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot. Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins. Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place.
Page 70 ® media. From this window, you can choose to view, print, copy or organize your Memory Stick images or data. If the Sony Memory Stick window does not appear when you insert your Memory Stick media, then follow these steps: To view the contents From the Start menu, click My Computer.
Page 71 Write-protecting Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the ® tab to the right or left to set or release write-protection. When the write-protect tab of the Memory Stick media is set to LOCK, data cannot be recorded or erased.
Page 72 From the Start menu, click My Computer. The My Computer window appears. Right-click Sony MemoryStick, and click Format from the menu. The Format Sony MemoryStick dialog box appears. Select Quick Format in the Format options box, and then click Start.
Page 73 Removing Memory Stick media If the Memory Stick media is removed prematurely, a blue screen with a message may appear prompting you to continue or ® exit. Reinsert the media into the slot and press Enter to continue. This enables the media to finish reading or writing data. To remove Memory Stick media Wait a minimum of 10 seconds after the Memory Stick media finishes reading or writing data before removing the media.
Page 74 Using recorded music requires permission of the copyright holders.  Sony is not responsible for music files that cannot be recorded from a CD or downloaded from other sources. Can I copy images from a digital video camera using Memory Stick media? Yes, and you can view video clips that you have recorded with Memory Stick media-compatible video camera recorders.
Page 75: Using The Multilingual User Interface Language Option
Using the Multilingual User Interface Language Option (Microsoft Windows XP Professional only) After you have initially setup your new VAIO computer, you can change the ® ® ® language displayed in Microsoft Windows XP Professional operating system. The multilingual user interface (MUI) language ®...
Page 76 Changing Numbers, Currency, Time, and Date Formats You can change your operating system's number, currency, time, and date formats to coordinate with your chosen country or language settings. To change these formats Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and then click Control Panel. Click Date, Time, Language and Regional Options, and click Regional and Language Options.
Page 77: Changing The Window Design Of Sony Programs
Click << or >> to view the designs. Click Apply to select a design that appears in the center window. The UI Design Selector window design changes. The window design for your Sony software will match the UI Design Selector window. Click OK.
Page 78 Mice and Keyboards  Using the Keyboard  Connecting External Mice and Keyboards Page 78...
Page 79: Using The Keyboard
Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter's, but your computer keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks.  Key descriptions  Combinations and functions with the Windows key  Indicator Lights  Combinations and functions with the Fn key Page 79...
Page 80 Key descriptions Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations, such as addition and subtraction. Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of the numeric keys.
Page 81 (Ctrl, Alt, Shift keys) Several keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl, Alt, and Shift. When held down with another key, the Ctrl (Control) and Alt (Alternate) keys offer another way to give commands. For example, in many programs, instead of choosing the Save command from a menu, you can hold down Ctrl and press S (referred to as Ctrl+S ).
Page 82 Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function Displays the VAIO Help and Support Center window. +Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays the desktop. Displays the Windows Explorer window. Displays the Search Results window, where you can find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start menu.
Page 83 Indicator Lights Indicator Function Power Turns on when the power to the computer is on, blinks in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is in Hibernate mode or off. Battery Turns on when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery is running out of power, double-blinks when the battery is charging.
Page 84 Combinations and functions with the Fn key Combinations/ Feature Function Fn+F3 Toggles the built-in speakers off and on. Fn+F4 Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. An on-screen display appears notifying you when a change occurs. To increase volume, press Fn+F4 and then press To decrease volume, press Fn+F4 and then press Fn+F5 Adjusts the brightness of the computer screen (LCD).
Page 85 Connecting External Mice and Keyboards Your computer is compatible with many popular mice and keyboards. To function properly, the device you connect must be compatible with the Microsoft Windows operating system installed on your computer. For information about your ® ®...
Page 86 Connecting a mouse or keyboard Your computer can be on or off when connecting a universal serial bus (USB) mouse or keyboard. If you connect the mouse or keyboard when the computer is on, you may need to restart the computer for it to recognize the device. See Frequently asked questions for more information.
Page 87 Disconnecting a mouse or keyboard You can disconnect a USB mouse or keyboard when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the mouse or keyboard when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a mouse or keyboard ...
Page 88 Frequently asked questions What do I do if the computer doesn't recognize the mouse?  Make sure the mouse is securely plugged into the port. See Connecting a mouse or keyboard for more information.  Restart the computer with the mouse connected to the computer. What do I do if the pointer doesn't move when I use the mouse? ...
Page 89 Floppy Disks and PC Cards  Using a Floppy Disk Drive  Using PC Cards Page 89...
Page 90: Using A Floppy Disk Drive
Using a Floppy Disk Drive You can connect a floppy disk drive to your computer. The floppy disk drive enables you to read or write data to a floppy disk.  Connecting a floppy disk drive  Inserting and removing floppy disks ...
Page 91 Connecting a floppy disk drive You can connect a floppy disk drive when your computer is on or off. Connecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To connect a USB floppy disk drive Close any active programs to prevent data loss.
Page 92 Inserting and removing floppy disks To write data to a disk, use one that is not write-protected or disable the write-protect feature. The floppy disk drive cannot write data to a disk if it is inserted into the drive improperly. To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label facing up.
Page 93 Protecting floppy disks  Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk.  Keep floppy disks away from magnets, direct sunlight, and heat sources. Page 93...
Page 94 Disconnecting a floppy disk drive You can disconnect a USB floppy drive when the computer is off by disconnecting the USB cable from the computer. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
Page 95 Storing a floppy disk drive Fold the floppy disk drive cable and connector into the side compartment on the floppy disk drive. Storing a Floppy Disk Driv e Page 95...
Page 96 Frequently asked questions Why doesn't the Safely Remove Hardware icon appear on the taskbar when the drive is connected? The computer does not recognize the floppy disk drive. First, make sure the USB cable is properly connected to the USB port.
Page 97: Using Pc Cards
Using PC Cards Your computer includes one or more PC Card slots. A PC Card enables you to connect devices such as an optical drive, floppy disk drive, or Network Interface Card (NIC). See your VAIO Computer Specifications for the type of PC Card that is compatible with your computer. These slots are ®...
Page 98 Your computer may contain PC Card slot protectors. Remove these protectors before you insert a PC Card into the slot. To remove slot protectors. Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable these devices.
Page 99 Removing PC Cards You can remove PC Cards while the computer is on or off. PC Cards draw power from the computer when they are inserted into the PC Card slot, whether or not you use the card. If you are not using your PC Card and you are using a battery as a power source, remove the PC Card from the PC Card slot to conserve battery power.
Page 100 The PC Card drive enables you to read data stored on a DVD or CD. Your computer may come with an external PC Card drive, depending on the model you purchased. If you wish to purchase a PC Card drive, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio...
Page 101 Windows operating system installed on your computer. ® ®  Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. See To open Sony Notebook Setup for more information.  See the instructions that accompanied your PC Card. You may need to install driver software if you are not using a Sony PC Card.
Page 102: Port Replicators
Port Replicators  Locating Ports and Jacks  Connecting a Port Replicator  Connecting a Flat-Panel Display  Disconnecting a Port Replicator Page 102...
Page 103 A port replicator is a device that attaches to your notebook and contains additional jacks and ports, such as USB ports. A port replicator may come with your computer, depending on the model you purchased. If you wish to purchase a port replicator, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 104: Connecting A Port Replicator
Connecting a Port Replicator You can connect a port replicator to the computer while the computer is on or off. Connecting a port replicator while the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may result in data loss or a computer malfunction. Use the AC adapter (not the battery) to power the computer while it is connected to a port replicator.
Page 105 Securing a Port Replicator Make sure the port replicator is securely fastened to the computer. Turn on the computer. Page 105...
Page 106: Connecting A Flat-Panel Display
Connecting a Flat-Panel Display The port replicator includes a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) port, which enables you to connect your computer to a flat-panel display. To connect to a flat panel display, you must use a DVI-D or DVI-D/I display cable. If you wish to purchase a cable, contact your local retailer.
Page 107 Disconnecting a Port Replicator Disconnecting a port replicator when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) or the battery power is low may result in data loss or a computer malfunction. You can disconnect a port replicator when the computer is on or off.
Page 108: Audio And Video Connections
Audio and Video Connections  Using i.LINK Digital-Video Recorders  Using Computer Monitors and Projectors  Using Speakers  Using Microphones Page 108...
Page 109: Using I.link Digital-Video Recorders
N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tor. T he i.LI...
Page 110 Connecting an i.LINK digital video recorder You can connect an i.LINK digital video (DV) recorder when the computer is on or off. Connecting the DV recorder when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. Before you connect an i.LINK digital video recorder ...
Page 111 Disconnecting the i.LINK digital video recorder You can disconnect the digital video recorder while the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on the computer. Disconnecting the cable when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
Page 112 Using a digital video camera recorder Your computer comes with preinstalled driver software that is compatible with most Sony digital video camera recorders. If you purchased a camera that comes with its own driver software, install these drivers before you use the camera.
Page 113 N K is a trademark of Sony us ed only to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
Page 114: Using Computer Monitors And Projectors
Using Computer Monitors and Projectors You can connect an external display (such as a computer monitor or a projector) to your computer.  Connecting a computer monitor  Connecting a projector  Selecting a display  Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector Page 114...
Page 115 Connecting a computer monitor Your computer can display images to the computer screen (LCD), to an external computer monitor, or to both the LCD and external monitor while your computer is on. If you purchased a port replicator, you can connect your computer to a flat-panel display. See Connecting a Flat-Panel Display for more information.
Page 116 Connecting a projector You can use a projector to display the actions and images on the computer screen (LCD). To connect a projector Plug the projector into an AC outlet. Plug the display cable into the Monitor (VGA) port on your computer. To locate the Monitor port, see "Locating Controls and Ports"...
Page 117 Selecting a display You can connect external displays to your computer while it is on. When you connect an external display (projector or computer monitor) to your computer, you can switch the display between the computer screen (LCD), the external display, or both, using shortcut keys or the Display Properties settings.
Page 118 Click the red button on the upper left corner of the display. Click Apply. Click OK. For more information, click Help. If you cannot see your movie or DVD on the external display, change the monitor or TV setting by clicking on the Primary icon on the display panel of your choice.
Page 119 Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector You can disconnect the external computer monitor or projector by unplugging the monitor (VGA) cable from your computer's port. Disconnecting the external display when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.
Page 120: Using Speakers
Your computer comes with built-in stereo speakers. If you wish to enhance the sound quality of your computer, you can purchase and connect external speakers. If you want to purchase speakers, make sure the speakers are designed for computer use. You can shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 121 Connecting speakers You can connect speakers to your computer to enhance the sound quality of your computer. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers. The speakers' magnetic field may damage the data stored on the floppy disks. To connect speakers to your computer Turn down the volume of the speakers.
Page 122 Disconnecting speakers You can disconnect external speakers when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the speaker cable from the Headphone jack on the computer. Page 122...
Page 123 Adjusting the volume To adjust the volume for playing CDs and DVDs, use the Volume icon on the Windows taskbar. Adjusting the volume ® for playing CDs or DVDs does not adjust the volume for recording sound files. You can only adjust the recording volume in the Recording Control window. See Using a microphone to record sound for instructions on how to open this window.
Page 124 Enabling the audio feature If you do not hear sound when playing a CD or DVD, you may need to enable the audio feature. To enable the audio feature Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and click Control Panel. ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System.
Page 125 Frequently asked questions Why won't my speakers work?  Make sure the speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up loud enough to hear sound.  Your speakers may not be designed for computer use.  If the speakers have a mute button, set the button to off. ...
Page 126: Using Microphones
Using Microphones You can connect an external microphone to your computer to enhance the sound input to your computer. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. If you wish to purchase a microphone, shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.
Page 127 Connecting a microphone Plug the microphone cable into the Microphone jack on the computer. Connecting a Microphone See the guide that accompanied your microphone for more information on its installation and use. A protruding dot loc ated next to the M ic rophone jac k dis tinguis hes this jac k from the H eadphone jac k. Page 127...
Page 128 Disconnecting a microphone You can disconnect an external microphone when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the microphone cable from the Microphone jack on the computer. Page 128...
Page 129 Using a microphone to record sound You can record messages, memos, etc. by connecting a microphone to the Microphone jack on your computer. To record from a microphone Double-click the Volume icon on the Windows taskbar. The Volume Control window appears. ®...
Page 130 Frequently asked questions Why doesn't my microphone work? If you are using an external microphone, make sure the microphone is turned on and is properly plugged into the Microphone jack on the computer. See Connecting a microphone for more information. Page 130...
Page 131: Memory Upgrades
Memory Upgrades Before you upgrade your computer's memory, make sure you read the safety information in Precautions and procedures. For the type of module and amount of memory installed on your computer, see the Welcome page to view the VAIO ®...
Page 132: Precautions And Procedures
Precautions and procedures Sony recommends that memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, go to: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. The procedures described below assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.
Page 133: Removing And Installing Memory Modules
Removing and installing memory modules Make sure you read the safety information in Precautions and procedures before you remove or install a memory module. When installing a memory module, do not open the module package until you are ready to install it. The package protects the module from Electrostatic discharge (ESD).
Page 134 Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your computer) to discharge static electricity. Avoid touching any part of the motherboard or other components inside the computer. Remove the memory module by pulling out the tabs (see arrows No. 1). Pull out the module in the direction of arrow No.
Page 135 information. Page 135...
Page 136: Confirming Added Memory Capacity
All Programs, and then point to Sony Notebook Setup. ® Select Sony Notebook Setup from the submenu. The Sony Notebook Setup dialog box appears. On the About This Computer tab, make sure the System Memory displayed in the System Information box matches the amount of memory installed.
Page 137: Troubleshooting
This section describes how to solve some basic problems you may encounter when using your computer. For more troubleshooting topics refer to the VAIO Computer User Guide. Many problems have simple solutions, so refer to these ® sources before you contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).  Troubleshooting Your Computer ...
Page 138: Troubleshooting Your Computer
Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears again. Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts. If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). What do I do if the message "Operating system not found" appears when my computer starts, and why won't Windows start? ...
Page 139 Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Restart the computer. Press F2 when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS Setup window appears. Press the Right Arrow key to select the Exit menu. Press the Down Arrow key to select Get Default Values.
Page 140 Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys simultaneously. The Windows Task Manager window appears. Press and release Alt to highlight the menu bar, and press the Right Arrow key to select Shut Down. Press Enter. Press R to select restart. If this procedure does not work, press and hold the power button or slide and hold the power switch until the computer turns off.
Page 141: Support Options
Sony Computing Support This service provides instant access to information on commonly encountered problems. Type a description of the problem and the Knowledge Database searches for the corresponding solutions online. You can visit Sony Computing Support at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Page 141...

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