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Sony PCG-FR130 VAIO User Manual
Sony PCG-FR130 VAIO User Manual

Sony PCG-FR130 VAIO User Manual

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Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO
This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to
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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Sony PCG-FR130 VAIO

  • Page 1 Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software programs. In the left navigation window, click the topics you want to learn more about, and that information will be displayed in this main window.
  • 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 Press the power button 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 Lift the lid of the computer. Push the battery bay cover down to open it. The battery bay cover swings out but does not detach from the computer. Opening the Battery Bay 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.
  • 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 Push the battery bay cover down to open it.
  • Page 9 Locating battery information You can display information for each of the batteries installed in your computer. To view battery information Click Start on the Windows ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click Power Options. The Power Options Properties window appears. Select the Power Meter tab.
  • 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 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 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  Using power schemes ...
  • Page 14 Using power saving modes In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate. Use the Standby and Hibernate power saving modes to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action.
  • Page 15 Using power schemes You can use the preset power schemes or you can customize the power profiles to conserve power. By using the power schemes and power profiles, you control the power supplied to different devices, such as the computer screen (LCD) and the hard disk drive, in your computer.
  • Page 16 power icon on the taskbar for more information. Select the Advanced tab, and select your changes from the drop-down menus in the Power buttons box. See Using power saving modes for information on how Standby and Hibernate modes affect power consumption. Click Apply.
  • Page 17 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 18: Internet And Network Connections

    Internet and Network Connections  Internet Connections  Network Connections  Connecting Another VAIO Computer Page 18...
  • Page 19: 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 services, and gain access to Sony Computing Support. ...
  • Page 20 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 21 Follow the on-screen instructions. Page 21...
  • Page 22 Setting up an Ethernet Internet connection Your computer accommodates both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet connections, with data transfer speeds of between 10 and 100 Mbps. To connect an Ethernet cable Locate the Ethernet port on your computer. For location information, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the Setting Up chapter of your printed VAIO Connecting an Ethernet Cable Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your computer's Ethernet port...
  • Page 23 If it is not already selected, click to select Connect to the Internet, and click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions. Page 23...
  • Page 24 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 ®...
  • Page 25  Make sure the telephone number the program is dialing is correct.  Make sure the software you are using is compatible with the computer's modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.)  If you are still experiencing problems, use the supplied Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the modem driver software.
  • Page 26: 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 27 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 28 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 29 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 30 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 networks list box. If required, type the network key in the Network key box. (The key should be between 5 and 13 ASCII characters or 10 to 26 hexadecimal characters.) Retype the network key in the Confirm network key box.
  • Page 31 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 for more information.
  • Page 32 Click the Wireless Network Connection icon appears. Wireless Network Connection 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 on the taskbar. The Wireless Network Connection dialog box Page 32...
  • Page 33 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.) Click to select the Data encryption (WEP enabled) check box. 10. Click to select the Network Authentication (Shared mode) check box. 11.
  • Page 34 Checking your network connection status Whether you have a wireless, Ethernet, or dial-up connection, you can check the status of that connection by double-clicking the Wireless Network Connection icon on your taskbar. The Wireless Network Connection Status window appears. Wireless Network Connection Status Page 34...
  • Page 35 Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels. Third-party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices. If you are using a wireless LAN access point, refer to connectivity information contained in your access point instructions.
  • Page 36: Connecting Another Vaio Computer

    N K is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnec tion. T he i.LI...
  • Page 37 Connecting VAIO computers When you connect two VAIO computers, you can use one computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer. You can also print from a printer attached to either computer. To connect VAIO computers Plug one end of the i.LINK cable into the i.LINK port on each computer. Click Start on the Windows ®...
  • Page 38 Page 38...
  • Page 39 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. To disconnect VAIO computer when the computers are off ...
  • Page 40: 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 41: Cds And Dvds

    CDs and DVDs  Inserting and Ejecting CDs or DVDs  Copying and Playing CDs  Playing DVDs Page 41...
  • Page 42: 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 43 Lift the disc from the drive. Push the drive tray gently to close it. Page 43...
  • Page 44: 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 44...
  • Page 45 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 ® The System Properties dialog box appears. As a shortcut, you can press Fn + the Windows key Select the Hardware tab, and in the Device Manager box, click Device Manager.
  • Page 46 Page 46...
  • Page 47 Copying files to a CD-RW or CD-R You can copy files to CD-R or CD-RW discs if your VAIO 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 48 Follow the instructions on the CD Writing Wizard. CD Writing Wizard Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc. T he read/write drive letter des ignation may vary, depending on your s ys tem's hardware c onfiguration. Page 48...
  • Page 49: Playing Dvds

    Playing DVDs You can play DVDs in your computer's optical drive and view the video on a TV. The type of optical drive installed in or connected to your computer may vary, depending on the model you purchased.  Connecting your computer to a TV ...
  • Page 50 Connecting your computer to a TV Your computer is equipped with an A/V OUT jack, which enables you to connect your computer to a TV. To locate the A/V OUT jack on your computer, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the Setting Up chapter of your printed VAIO Quick Start.
  • Page 51 Playing DVDs on a TV To play a DVD Close all open programs. Disable the screen saver and the virus checker. Change the power schemes to Max Battery if it is not already selected. See information. Connect the TV to the computer. See Press the Fn+F8 keys to view the image on either the computer screen (LCD) or the TV.
  • Page 52 Disconnecting your computer from a TV Simply unplug the audio-video (AV) cable from the A/V OUT jack on the computer. Page 52...
  • Page 53 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 InterVideo WinDVD Click Start on the taskbar, and point to All Programs.
  • Page 54 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 55 between the speakers and the computer. Make sure the CD audio feature is enabled and the correct driver software is installed. Follow these steps: Click Start on the Windows System. The System Properties window appears. Select the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager in the Device Manager box. A window with a listing of the computer's hardware devices appears.
  • Page 56 resolution. Selecting a display for more information. How do I switch the computer screen (LCD) from LCD to TV? Press the Fn+F8 keys to view the image on either the computer screen (LCD) or the TV. See 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.
  • Page 57: Printer Connections

    Printer Connections  Printing With Your Computer Page 57...
  • Page 58: 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 ®  Connecting a printer  Disconnecting a printer  Frequently asked questions operating system installed on your computer. ®...
  • Page 59 Connecting a printer You can connect a universal serial bus (USB) printer or, depending on the model, a parallel port printer to your computer. The New Hardware Wizard enables you to easily install the printer software, but some printers require separate driver software installation.
  • Page 60 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. If the computer does not recognize the printer, you may need to install the printer driver software.
  • Page 61 Disconnecting a printer You can disconnect the printer cable when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting a printer when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction. To disconnect a printer ...
  • Page 62 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 ...
  • Page 63: Computer Features

    Computer Features  Using the Touch Pad  Changing the Window Design of Sony Programs Page 63...
  • Page 64: 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 65 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 Moving your finger along the right edge of the touch pad only with programs that support a touch pad scroll feature.)
  • Page 66 Customizing 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. To customize the touch pad and mouse ...
  • Page 67 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 68: 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 69 Mice and Keyboards  Using the Keyboard  Connecting Mice and Keyboards Page 69...
  • Page 70: 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 locations and descriptions  Combinations and functions with the Windows key  Indicator lights  Combinations and functions with the Fn key Page 70...
  • Page 71 Key locations and descriptions Keyboard 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 72 Page 72...
  • Page 73 Combinations and functions with the Windows key Combination Function Displays the VAIO Help and Support Center window. +Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays the desktop. Displays the My Computer window. Displays the Search Results window, where you can find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start menu.
  • Page 74 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 75 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. To increase volume, press Fn+F4. To decrease volume, press Fn+Shift+F4. Fn+F5 Adjusts the brightness of the computer screen (LCD). To increase and decrease brightness, press Fn+F5.
  • Page 76: Connecting Mice And Keyboards

    Connecting 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 ® computer's built-in keyboard and key functions, see  Connecting a mouse or keyboard ...
  • Page 77 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 asked questions for more information.
  • Page 78 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 79 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  Restart the computer with the mouse connected to the computer.  You may need to install or reinstall the mouse driver software. Use the supplied Application Recovery CD to install the drivers.
  • Page 80 Floppy Disk and PC Card Connections  Using the Floppy Disk Drive  Using PC Cards Page 80...
  • Page 81: Using The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using the Floppy Disk Drive Your computer is equipped with a floppy disk drive. The floppy disk drive enables you to read or write data to a floppy disk.  Inserting and removing floppy disks  Protecting floppy disks  Frequently asked questions Page 81...
  • Page 82 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 83 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 83...
  • Page 84 Frequently asked questions Why is the drive unable to write data to a floppy disk? Make sure the floppy disk is properly inserted in the drive. See Inserting and removing floppy disks for instructions on how to insert the disk properly. If the disk is inserted properly and you are still unable to write data to it, the disk may be full or write-protected.
  • Page 85: 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 86 Inserting PC Cards To insert a PC Card Make sure the front label of the PC Card is facing up. Push the PC Card gently into the slot. The system automatically detects the PC Card. Do not force a PC Card into the slot; this may damage the connector pins. When a PC Card is inserted, do not place your computer in a bag or case.
  • Page 87 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 88  See the instructions that accompanied your PC Card. You may need to install driver software if you are not using a Sony PC Card. Why doesn't my computer recognize attached devices? For some PC Cards, if you alternate between normal power operation and the Standby or Hibernate modes while the card is inserted into the PC Card slot, the computer may not recognize the PC Card or the connected device.
  • Page 89: Audio And Video Connections

    Audio and Video Connections  Using i.LINK Digital-Video Recorders  Using Computer Monitors and Projectors  Using Speakers  Using Microphones Page 89...
  • Page 90: 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 91 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 92 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 93 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 94 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 95: 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 multimedia device  Selecting a display  Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector Page 95...
  • Page 96 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. To connect a computer monitor Make sure the computer monitor is plugged into an AC outlet. Plug the display cable into the Monitor (VGA) port If it is not already on, turn on the computer monitor.
  • Page 97 Connecting a multimedia device You can connect a multimedia device, such as a multimedia computer monitor or projector, to your computer. Connecting a multimedia device enables you to display images on your computer screen (LCD), the multimedia device, or both. For information on connecting a TV to your computer, see To connect a multimedia computer monitor or projector Plug the device into an AC outlet.
  • Page 98 Selecting a display You can connect external displays to your computer while it is on. When you connect an external display (projector, computer monitor, or TV) 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 99 Option Description Standard Enables you to view the image on your LCD display. Clone Enables you to view the image on both the LCD display and the external monitor. Horizontal span Extends the image horizontally across the LCD display and the external monitor. Vertical span Extends the image vertically across the LCD display and the external monitor.
  • Page 100 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.
  • Page 101: 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 ...
  • Page 102 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 103 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 103...
  • Page 104 Adjusting the volume To adjust the volume for playing CDs and DVDs, use the Volume icon for playing CDs or DVDs does not adjust the volume for recording to CDs or DVDs. You can only adjust the recording volume in the Recording Control window. See for instructions on how to open this window.
  • Page 105 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 ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System. The System Properties window appears. Select the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager.
  • Page 106 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 107: 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 108 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 108...
  • Page 109 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 109...
  • Page 110 Using a microphone to record sound You can record messages, memos, etc. by connecting a microphone to the Microphone jack To record from a microphone Double-click the Volume icon From the Options menu, click Properties. The Properties dialog box appears. Click to select the Recording option in the Adjust volume for box, and click OK.
  • Page 111 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 111...
  • Page 112: Preinstalled Programs

    Preinstalled Programs  Programs On Your Computer  DVgate Program Notes  Program Support Information Page 112...
  • Page 113 Programs On Your Computer Your computer may not be supplied with all of the programs listed in the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled programs may not be identical to retail versions or include supporting documentation.  Program overview  Frequently asked questions Program overview section, depending on the Page 113...
  • Page 114 Experience the Internet up to 100 times faster than dial-up, and enjoy being totally mobile. Click to DVD Sony Electronics Inc. At the touch of a button, Click to DVD software allows you to automatically burn DVDs from a digital video device. Create DVDs by capturing video content straight from a digital video (DV) device or by importing video from stored files —...
  • Page 115 ® Sony Electronics, Inc. Store, organize and share your photos and video clips with ImageStation(SM) Sony's online photo and video sharing service. Membership in ImageStation is free (except for transactions) and includes unlimited storage of digital photos, storage for 15 minutes of video clips, tools to personalize the design and arrangement of your pictures in albums, and access to stories and tips about image handling in ImageStation Magazine.
  • Page 116 Sony VAIO that expose your private data, disable your Sony VAIO McAfee.com Personal Firewall Plus is an online subscription service offering advanced protection for your Sony VAIO your personal data. Personal Firewall Plus establishes a barrier between your Sony VAIO monitoring Internet traffic for suspicious activities.
  • Page 117 Sony Electronics Inc. Network Smart Capture captures images and video from any Sony Digital Camcorder that supports a standard i.LINK connection. Send your video or still images through e-mail or upload them to the ImageStation(SM) service. You can use the Web camera function to automatically upload your captured images.
  • Page 118 (on computer models that include a CD recording device), and a parametric equalizer for fine-tuning audio playback. Sony on Yahoo! Yahoo! Inc. Personalize your own Web portal with Sony on Yahoo! Get a free Web mail account, customized news and local weather reports, comics, instant messaging, and more. Sony ScreenBlast...
  • Page 119 VAIO Product Registration is an integrated registration application for both Sony Electronics and Microsoft. By registering to Sony Electronics, the VAIO owners become eligible for the extended warranty offered by Sony depending on the machine purchased. Microsoft directs the data to Sony Electronics. Sony uses the registration data for warranty purposes and the analysis of customer feedback on Sony computer features.
  • Page 120 Corel Corp. WordPerfect Office 2002 software includes all the applications you need to create professional-looking documents, ® newsletters, reports, presentations, and brochures while incorporating graphics, spreadsheets, charts, and tables with ease. This comprehensive suite includes the popular WordPerfect 10 word processor, the Quattro Pro 10 spreadsheet ®...
  • Page 121 To write data files to a CD-R or CD-RW disc, use the Microsoft computer.  To write audio files to a CD-R or CD-RW, use the Sony SonicStage program preinstalled on your computer. Follow these steps to open Sony SonicStage: Click Start, and then click All Programs.
  • Page 122: Dvgate Program Notes

    DVgate Program Notes The DVgate program enables you to connect a compatible digital video camera to your computer's i.LINK video clips and still images. You can edit clips from your video, add new clips, and combine clips into new movie segments. You can also save your images in a variety of popular file formats.
  • Page 123 Recording images to a digital video device If your system displays the message, "Failed to record to DV deck, please check deck's power status, cable connection...," while you are recording images to a digital video device using the DVgate program, close all open programs, and restart your computer.
  • Page 124 Adjusting image resolution If the images on the computer screen (LCD) do not display smoothly, the resolution may not be set correctly. To check the resolution From the DVgate Motion-Monitor window, click Setup. From the shortcut menu, point to Settings, and then select Low Resolution. The settings you change in this menu affect the images in the monitor window only.
  • Page 125 Saving to your hard disk In order to improve the performance of your computer's DVgate formatted with two partitions, C and D. The DVgate program saves files to the D partition. This prevents large video captures from consuming the available space on your C partition. To maintain optimum DVgate program performance, defragment the D partition regularly.
  • Page 126: Program Support Information

    Program Support Information Your computer may not be supplied with all of the programs listed in the this section, depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled programs may not be identical to retail versions or include supporting documentation. Adobe programs ®...
  • Page 127 EarthLinkSM Total Access 2003 (DSL or Dial-Up) ® Web site http://support.earthlink.net/ EverQuest ® Web site(s) http://www.everquest.com e-mail eqtech@soe.sony.com phone 858-831-9143 hours M-F, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM PST McAfee programs Web site(s) http://www.mcafee.com/support/default.asp phone (900) 733-8255 Phone support is $2.95 per minute.
  • Page 128 Web site(s) http://service.real.com/rjoptions.html e-mail http://service.real.com/help/call.html phone 206-674-2680 206-674-3586 hours M-F, 8 AM-6 PM PST Sat-Sun, 7:30 AM-4 PM PST RecordNow Web site http://www.easy.co.jp/jrn45/sony Sony on Yahoo! Web site http://help.yahoo.com/ (online email form) Web site http: phone 900- hours M-F, Page 128...
  • Page 129 Support from 9 0 0 -5 5 5 -4 9 3 2 is fee-bas ed. Support from 8 0 0 -6 4 4 -3 1 9 3 is automated and free of c harge. Sony programs Support from 1 -8 8 8 -4 -SO N Y -P C is free of c harge for 9 0 days after the original date of purc has e.
  • Page 130: Memory Upgrades

    Memory Upgrades Before you upgrade your computer's memory, make sure you read the safety information in For the type of module and amount of memory installed on your computer, see the Computer Specifications. See also  Precautions and procedures  Typical expansion memory configuration ...
  • Page 131: 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 132: Typical Expansion Memory Configuration

    Typical expansion memory configuration Total System Memory (MB) Slot 1 (MB) Slot 2 (MB) 1024 Page 132...
  • Page 133: Removing And Installing Memory Modules

    Removing and installing memory modules Make sure you read the safety information in 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). For memory upgrades and information about which memory modules to use, refer to your VAIO Welcome page.
  • Page 134 Push the module down until it snaps into place. When the module is correctly seated, close the memory bay. Replace the fastening screw(s) on the memory bay. Make sure the system recognizes the new memory module. See information. Confirming added memory capacity for more Page 134...
  • Page 135: Confirming Added Memory Capacity

    Confirming added memory capacity After you've installed a new memory module, make sure the operating system recognizes it. To check your system's memory Turn on or restart the computer. Click Start on the Windows ® Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System. The System Properties window appears. On the General tab, you can view the amount of system memory.
  • Page 136: Using The Application Recovery And System Recovery Cds

    Using the Application Recovery and System Recovery CDs You can restore your system, individual programs, or drivers, using the Application Recovery and System Recovery CDs.  Application and System Recovery CDs  Using Your Recovery CDs Page 136...
  • Page 137: Application And System Recovery Cds

    CDs. If your computer does not come with an optical drive, use an external optical drive. Application Recovery CDs Sony Electronics Inc. These CDs enable you to reinstall individual programs and device drivers if they become corrupted or are erased.
  • Page 138: Using Your Recovery Cds

    Using Your Recovery CDs The following sections describe how to use the Application Recovery and System Recovery utilities.  Using the Application Recovery CDs  Using the System Recovery CDs Page 138...
  • Page 139 Insert Application Recovery CD No. 1 into your computer's optical drive. The VAIO welcome window appears. Click OK, then click Quit to close the Sony Application Recovery utility. (Leave the CD in the optical drive.) Click Start on the Windows ®...
  • Page 140 17. Wait 30 seconds, and turn on your computer. If you have any questions about using the Application Recovery CD(s), visit http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. U nknown devic es are identified by a yellow ques tion mark. A devic e that has a driver problem is identified by a yellow exc lamation mark.
  • Page 141 Press the disc eject button to open the optical disc drive and extend the disc tray. Insert the Sony System Recovery CD No. 1 into the optical drive, and close the drive. The first CD must be in the drive before you restart your computer.
  • Page 142 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 appears.
  • Page 143: Troubleshooting

    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 sources before you contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).  Troubleshooting Your Computer (Windows XP) ...
  • Page 144: Troubleshooting Your Computer (Windows Xp)

    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" appear when my computer starts, and why won't Windows start? ...
  • Page 145 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 Press the Down Arrow key SETUP items appears.
  • Page 146 Press U. Press R to select restart. If the computer does not restart, follow these steps: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously. The Windows Task Manager window appears. Press and release Alt to highlight the menu bar, and press the Right Arrow Down. Press Enter.
  • Page 147: Troubleshooting Your Computer (Windows 2000)

    Select Exit (Save Changes), and press Enter. The Setup Confirmation window appears again. Select Yes, and press Enter. The computer restarts. If this occurs on a regular basis, contact Sony Computing Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). What do I do if the message, "Operating system not found" appears when my computer starts, and why won't Windows start? ...
  • Page 148 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 Press the Down Arrow key SETUP items appears.
  • Page 149 Press the Windows key Press U. Press R to select restart. Press Enter. If the computer does not restart, follow these steps: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously. The Windows Security dialog box appears. Press the Right Arrow Press Enter. Press R to select restart. Press Enter.
  • Page 150: 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. Computer Quick Start provide information on how to ®...

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