Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.
Read this first ® NERGY ® ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. The NERGY NERGY ® International Energy Star Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use of computers and their office equipment.
Safety information Owner's record The model number and serial number are located on the back panel of your Sony VAIO desktop. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call VAIO-Link.
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Read this first Audio/video Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation. Connectivity Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations. Be cautious when installing or modifying telephone lines.
Read this first Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive). This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in the following areas: residential, commercial, and light industrial.
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Read this first Disposing of batteries Your Sony VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal back-up memory battery that should not have to be replaced during the lifetime of the product. If you want to replace the battery, please contact VAIO-Link: http://www.vaio-link.com...
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Sony audio and video quality – The high-quality external stereo speakers enable you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software. Sony Memory Stick™ media slot – The next generation in digital storage allows you to easily transfer images, sounds, data and text between cameras, computers, and more.
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Online documentation The online documentation contains the following guides: The Sony VAIO Desktop User Guide: Using your VAIO desktop shows you how to use the standard components of your system. In this part of the manual you will also find out what you can do with a Memory Stick™.
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About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system. Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart Capture. Managing audio files with SonicStage describes how to convert your existing MP3, WMA and WAV format audio files into ATRAC3 format.
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Welcome Your Sony VAIO desktop and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box*: main unit VAIO keyboard with palmrest power cable phone cable** (country-specific) phone plug adapter** (country-specific) * See the Specifications online document. **Used to connect the internal modem. Please read the section Using the correct phone plug...
Welcome Ergonomic considerations Whenever possible, try and take into account the following ergonomic considerations when using your new computer, whether at home or in the office:...
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Welcome Position of the keyboard and mouse – Place the keyboard directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (2) while using the keyboard or mouse – not at an angle. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Use the palm rest only briefly, to relax your wrists when you are not typing.
Using your VAIO desktop Using your VAIO desktop This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices. Locating controls and connectors Starting your computer Shutting down your computer Using the keyboard Using the shortcut keys Using the mouse Using the CD and DVD drives...
Using your VAIO desktop Locating controls and connectors Front panel DRIVE while reading and writing data from DVD-ROM drive (page 25) CD-RW drive (page 25) floppy disk drive (page 27) floppy disk drive indicator (page 27) disc drive indicator (page 25) hard disk drive indicator (page 16) power button and indicator...
Using your VAIO desktop Starting your computer Once you have all the components set up as described in the Getting Started guide, you can begin to use your computer. To start up your computer, proceed as follows: Press the power button on the system unit until the blue power indicator light turns on (1). Press the power button on your monitor to turn the display on (2).
Using your VAIO desktop Shutting down your computer It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data. To shut down your computer, proceed as follows: Click the Start button. Click Turn Off Computer. The Turn off computer screen appears.
Using your VAIO desktop Using the keyboard This section describes the features of the VAIO keyboard. ¬ ¦ Caps Lock Ctrl MAIL INTERNET MUSIC PICTURE VIDEO " £ & € < Alt Gr HELP Num Lock Caps Lock Scroll Lock Delete Insert NumLk...
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Using your VAIO desktop Keys Escape key (1) Function keys (2) Correction keys (3) Lock keys (4) Print Screen key (5) Numeric keypad area (6) Navigation keys (7) Application key Operator keys (9) Descriptions The <Esc> (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks.
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Using your VAIO desktop Keys ® Windows ( 10) Shortcut keys (S Keys) (11) Indicator LEDs (12) Standby button (13) <Fn> combination keys (14) <Fn> key (15) Descriptions ® The key with the Windows logo displays the Windows is equivalent to clicking the Start button on the taskbar. You can use these buttons, numbered 1 to 6, to launch straight into assigned applications.
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Using your VAIO desktop Combinations and functions with the Windows Combinations + <F1> + <Tab> + <E> + <F> + <Ctrl> + <F> + <M> <Shift> + + <M> + <R> Function ® Displays Windows Help and Support Center. Switches the selected button on the taskbar.
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Using your VAIO desktop Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key Combinations/ Functions Feature Moves the view to the next page up. PgUp <Fn> + Moves the view to the next page down. PgDn <Fn> + Moves the cursor to the beginning of the line. Home <Fn>...
Using your VAIO desktop Using the shortcut keys Press a shortcut key (S Key) to start your favourite software without having to click the shortcut icon on the desktop. Use an S Key simply by pressing it. If you want to, you can use VAIO Action Setup to change the functions of the S Keys. All six buttons are reprogrammable.
Using your VAIO desktop Using the mouse The VAIO wheel mouse allows you to control the cursor in a number of ways. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the buttons and the wheel. Function Action point...
Using your VAIO desktop Using the CD and DVD drives Your computer is equipped with a CD-RW and a DVD-ROM drive. The DVD-ROM drive (top) reads data from a DVD or CD. The CD-RW drive (bottom) reads data from a CD and writes to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. Always use the upper drive for the recovery procedures (see the Software Guide).
Using your VAIO desktop Writing CDs Your computer is equipped with a CD-RW drive, on which you can play audio CDs and CD-ROMs, as well as create your own CD-RWs and CD-Rs. To burn CDs, you can use CD-RW and CD-R discs: The CD-RW (ReWritable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write, erase and rewrite a program or other data.
Using your VAIO desktop Playing DVDs Your VAIO desktop includes a DVD drive, on which you can play audio CDs, CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROMs, you should follow these recommendations: Close all open applications before playing a DVD-ROM movie. Do not switch power saving modes while playing a DVD-ROM.
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Using your VAIO desktop Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Wait until the LED indicator turns off. Press the eject button to remove the floppy disk. Do not press the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.
Using your VAIO desktop Using the modem Your VAIO desktop is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link.
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Using your VAIO desktop Using the correct phone plug In the box you will find one of the following phone plugs. Make sure you use the correct one for the country you are in, as follows: UK: Use the plug whose connector can be identified by its cuboid shape and flat pins: Netherlands: Take the plug with the protruding pins:...
The empty slots allow you the choice of adding to the expansion capabilities of your computer. See Upgrading your VAIO computer You are strongly advised not to add hardware yourself. Please contact your local Sony dealer for advice on changing the internal hardware components.
The generic Memory Stick™, coloured blue. The MagicGate Memory Stick™, coloured white. You can purchase Memory Sticks™ from the Sony Style website (http://www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer. Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The Memory Stick™...
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Using your VAIO desktop The main advantages of the Memory Stick™ are its: Compactness: with dimensions of just 21.5 mm (W) x 2.8 mm (H) x 50 mm (D), compatible products can also be small, lightweight and attractive in their design. Capacity: Its data capacity far exceeds that of a floppy disk.
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Using your VAIO desktop Generic Memory Stick™ The original Memory Stick™, blue in colour, can be used to record image data taken with digital still cameras, etc. or data from the PC. With it, you can record, play back and transfer various kinds of data at any given time.
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Using your VAIO desktop MagicGate Memory Stick™ As the MagicGate Memory Stick™ is not supported on your RX3 model, the following is for your information only. The MagicGate Memory Stick™, white in colour, records PC and image data just like its blue counterpart; the difference is it uses the MagicGate copyright protection technology.
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MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organization working to draw up industry standard specifications in order to protect copyrights of digital music). logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media. MagicGate MagicGate refers to the copyright protection technology used by the MagicGate Memory Stick™...
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(SDMI) to study technology for protecting copyrights during the electronic distribution of music. Sony offers the MagicGate Memory Stick™ and Memory Stick™ Walkman with a copyright protection function that complies with SDMI standards, thereby providing an environment where individuals can record and enjoy third-party music data without worrying about copyright infringement.
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Using your VAIO desktop CLIE Handheld Entertainment Organiser Sony mobile phones Digital printers AIBO the Sony Entertainment Robot To find out more about the products available in your country, go to: http://www.sonystyle-europe.com Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
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Using your VAIO desktop Inserting a Memory Stick™ To insert a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Once you have stored your data from your digital device, insert the Memory Stick™ into the Memory Stick™ slot in the front panel. The Memory Stick™ is automatically detected by your system and appears in the My Computer window with its own drive.
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Using your VAIO desktop Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™, proceed as follows: Push the Memory Stick™ in to release it, and then pull it out. DRIVE while reading and writing data from Always remove the Memory Stick™ gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly. You are recommended to remove the Memory Stick™...
Using your VAIO desktop Using power saving modes The colour of the power indicator light on the main unit tells you which mode the computer is in. Colour Mode Blue Computer is in Normal mode Umber Computer is in Standby mode No colour Computer is turned off or in Hibernate mode Using Standby mode...
Using your VAIO desktop Select Stand By. The computer goes into Standby mode, indicated by the umber light. To return to Normal mode, choose from the following: Press any key on the keyboard. Press the Standby button again. Press one of the S Keys on the keyboard. Quickly press the power button on your computer.
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Using your VAIO desktop To activate Hibernate mode manually, use one of these two methods: ® Use the Windows Save your work. From the Start menu on the Windows Alternatively, press <Alt>+<F4>. In the Turn Off Computer screen, hold down the <Shift> key to reveal the Hibernate button. Click Hibernate.
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of these peripherals. Connecting a projector Connecting an external microphone Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device Connecting a printer Connecting an i.LINK™ device Connecting to a network Before you connect a peripheral, turn off both the computer and the peripheral.
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can connect a projector (such as the Sony LCD projector) directly to your computer. To connect a projector to your VAIO desktop, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the VGA cable into the VGA monitor connector on the back of your computer, and the other end into the projector you want to use (1).
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external microphone Your VAIO desktop does not contain an internal microphone. If you need to use a sound input device, for example to chat on the Internet, you need to plug in an external microphone. To connect an external microphone, proceed as follows: Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone connector (2) identified by the symbol Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device You can connect a USB device, for example, a scanner or a printer, to your VAIO desktop. There are two USB ports on the front of your VAIO desktop, and two at the back. To connect a USB device, simply plug in the USB cable of the device into one of the ports on your computer.
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer To connect a printer, proceed as follows: Plug the printer cable into the printer connector on your computer (1). Plug the printer power cord into an AC outlet (2). To connect a USB printer, simply plug the printer's USB cable into one of the USB ports on your VAIO desktop.
An i.LINK™ connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices. The i.LINK™ connection varies depending on the software applications, operating system and i.LINK™ compatible devices you use. Refer to the documentation that came with your software for more information.
On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labelled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK™ are i.LINK™-compatible. The Sony digital video camera recorder is an example; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. If your digital video camera recorder includes a Memory Stick™ slot, you can copy images from it to your computer via a Memory Stick™. To do so,...
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Connecting peripheral devices Connecting two VAIO computers You can copy, edit or delete files on another VAIO computer to your desktop with an optional i.LINK™ cable. ® If the second computer has the Windows XP operating system, you just need the i.LINK™ cable. If the ®...
Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network Your computer comes with a preinstalled Ethernet interface. To connect to a network, proceed as follows: Go to Start, right-click on My Computer and select Properties. Click the Hardware tab and select Device Manager. The Device Manager screen appears with the list of devices.
Getting help Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, as well as troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony's support options Sony provides several support options for your computer. Printed documentation The printed part of your documentation pack contains the following: A Getting Started brochure, where you will find a brief description of the items in your box, some specifications of your VAIO desktop, and how to set up your computer;...
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About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system. Using Video software explains how to use Sony video software: DVgate, MovieShaker and Smart Capture. Managing audio files with SonicStage describes how to convert your existing MP3, WMA and WAV format audio files into ATRAC3 format.
This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your VAIO desktop. Many problems have simple solutions. Please try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link or your local Sony dealer. You are recommended to print out this section and keep it for future reference. About the computer and software...
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To initialize the BIOS, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn on the computer and press <F2> when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Use the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
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Getting help Press <F10> to exit, or use the arrow keys to select Exit (Save Changes). The message Save configuration changes and exit now? appears. Make sure that Yes is selected and then press <Enter>. My computer does not shut down It is recommended that you shut down your computer using the Turn Off Computer command on the ®...
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Getting help My computer locks up If you suspect an application is locking your system, you can try to stop it. To do this, press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> once. If you have not changed the default settings, you will enter the Task Manager.
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Getting help If this still fails, proceed as follows: If possible, save any unsaved work. Press <Alt>+<F4>. The Turn off computer box appears. Select Restart. Make sure the software you are using is compatible with your equipment and operating system. If these options fail, try re-installing the software.
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Getting help To clean the mouse, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer and turn the mouse upside down. Remove the mouse ball cover by turning the ring clockwise as indicated by the arrows. Turn the mouse upright and drop the mouse ball into your hand. Using a piece of sticky tape, remove any dirt or dust on the mouse ball and inside the ball socket.
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Getting help About the display My monitor does not display anything Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the main unit is on. Adjust the brightness of the monitor. The computer display may be in Standby mode.
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Getting help Click Appearance and Themes, then the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Select the Settings tab. Move the Screen Resolution slider to change the resolution. Click OK. About CDs and floppy disks My CD/DVD tray does not open To open the disc drive, proceed as follows: With the eject button: Make sure the power is turned on.
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Getting help If the disc requires software, make sure the software is installed according to the instructions of the program. Check the volume of your speakers. Clean the disc with an appropriate cleaner. Moisture condensation may have occurred. Leave the computer for at least 1 hour before turning it on. I cannot play a DVD-ROM If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD-ROM you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD drive on your VAIO desktop.
Getting help My floppy disk drive cannot write to a disk The floppy disk may be write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or use a disk that is not write- protected. Check that the disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive. When I double-click an application icon, a message such as 'You must insert the application CD into your drive' appears and the software does not start Some titles require specific files that are located on the application CD-ROM.
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Getting help The reading speed of CD-RWs is slow Generally, the reading speed of a CD-RW is slower than that of a CD-ROM or CD-R. The reading speed can also vary depending on the type of format. About sound My speakers are not producing any sound If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check that the volume is turned up.
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Getting help In the Options menu, select Advanced Controls, and then click the Advanced button under Microphone - Balance. The Advanced Controls for Microphone dialog box appears. Deselect the Microphone Boost check box, and then click Close. Close the Recording Control dialog box. The unwanted noise should now be cleared.
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If this is the case, turn off all connected devices and disconnect unused devices. Check the connection and then turn on the power again. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices.
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Getting help To install a local printer, proceed as follows: From the Control Panel, select Printers and Other Hardware, then Printers and Faxes. Under Printer Tasks, click Add a printer. Let the Add Printer Wizard guide you through the installation process. Click Finish.
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The connected i.LINK™ device is not recognised Disconnect the i.LINK™ device, then connect it again. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices. I cannot establish an i.LINK™ connection between two VAIO computers Disconnect then reconnect the i.LINK™...
To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: You contact your local Sony dealer to install any new internal hardware components. You do not install memory modules yourself, if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer.
Upgrading your VAIO computer Position the main unit so the back panel is facing you. Locate the tab on the upper right side of the rear panel, and pull it back until the side cover releases. Lift the side cover away from the unit and set it aside. Always wait for the internal parts of the system unit to cool down before removing the side panel.
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Upgrading your VAIO computer To insert an add-on board, proceed as follows: Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. Remove the side cover as described in Opening the side cover Locate one of the two available expansion slots.
Upgrading your VAIO computer Attach any internal cables that the board requires (see the manual that came with the add-on board). Replace the side cover as described in Closing the side cover Reconnect all peripheral devices and the power cord, and then turn on the computer. Make sure you observe the proper safety precautions when you add boards to your VAIO computer.
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Upgrading your VAIO computer Handle the memory module gently. The procedures described in this document 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. Disconnect the system from its power source and from any telecommunication links, networks, or modems before you open the system.
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Upgrading your VAIO computer Installing a new memory module If you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer, we highly recommend that you contact your dealer. To add or change a memory module, proceed as follows: Shut down the computer, unplug it, and remove any peripheral devices. Wait for the computer to cool down.
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Upgrading your VAIO computer Press evenly against the memory module's upper corners. The end latches snap into position automatically, as shown (3): Reinstall the power supply and any add-on cards or components you removed. Reinstall the power supply by following these steps: Rotate the power supply to its original position and slide it into the chassis until the tab snaps into position.
Upgrading your VAIO computer Viewing the amount of memory To view the amount of memory, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer. Click the Start button, point to All Programs, then VAIO System Information, and click VAIO System Information again. You can view the amount of installed memory here.
Precautions Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Please contact VAIO-Link if you need assistance. On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. However, it can be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust.
Precautions You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device prevents damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges, in an electrical storm, for example. Do not place heavy objects on the power cord. To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself. Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you are planning to not use the computer for a long time.
Precautions Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The electromagnetic field of your computer may cause a malfunction. Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat from building up. Do not place your computer on porous surfaces such as rugs or blankets, or near material such as curtains or draperies that may block its ventilation slots.
Precautions Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause reading errors. Always hold the disc by its edge and central hole, as shown. Proper care of the disc is essential to its continuous reliability. Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinning agents, commercially available cleaners or anti-static spray, as they may cause damage to the disc.
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Glossary Glossary This section refers to terms used in this manual and elsewhere in the VAIO world. These terms and definitions have been compiled to provide you with a better understanding of your VAIO computer. Term <F1> key 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX ACPI Application recovery Application recovery CD-ROM BIOS...
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Glossary Term CD-RW DC In DDR SDRAM Driver DVD-ROM Ethernet EULA Definition Short for Compact Disc-ReWriteable. Compact Disc that can be used to write or rewrite data to it. A CD-RW can be written to several times, a CD-R can only be written to once. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brains of the computer;...
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Motherboard Definition i.LINK™ is Sony’s version of the IEEE 1394 standard for high-speed digital serial interface. The standard is regarded in the audio/video and IT industries as the most suitable interface for connecting computers and digital audio/video devices (such as digital cameras etc.).
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Glossary Term MPEG Operating system Partition Pixel Processor Product recovery CD-ROM Definition MPEG or Moving Pictures Experts Group is a standard for audio-visual compression of video sequences. MPEG achieves high compression rates by storing only the changes from one frame to another. The decrease in data is generally imperceptible to the human eye. MPEG-1 was developed for digital storage of video and audio data on CD-ROM.
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Glossary Term PS/2 PSTN Resolution RGB signal cable SDRAM Standard RAM System recovery System recovery CD-ROM Definition A type of mouse or keyboard port. PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) refers to the plain old telephone service, the national telecommunication networks implementing voice transmission by using analog signals.
You can connect up to 127 devices to a USB port. The USB standard is Hot Plug and Play. Short for Video Audio Integrated Operation. Brand name covering Sony's PC products, peripherals, accessories and software. VAIO-branded items are all designed to make the best use of Sony's Audio-Video (AV) and Information Technology (IT) skills.