Page 1: Table Of Contents
Using the center Jog Dial control ...20 Launcher mode ...21 Guide Mode ...22 Using the center Jog Dial control with Sony software ...22 Using the center Jog Dial control with other software ...23 Using a PC Card ...24 To insert a PC Card...24 To remove a PC Card...25...
Page 2 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting to a LAN ... 36 To set up your Ethernet connection ... 36 Connecting Peripheral Devices ...37 Connecting the Docking Station ... 38 Connecting the notebook to the docking station... 40 Disconnecting the notebook from the docking station...
Page 3 Battery icon descriptions ...79 Displaying detailed battery information ...80 Selecting the Display Mode ...82 To select the display mode...82 To change the window design of Sony software ...84 Adding Memory ...85 Precautions and Procedures...85 Typical expansion memory configuration ...86 Removing a Memory Module ...87 Installing a Memory Module...88...
Page 4 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using Your Recovery CDs ... 100 To use the Application Recovery CD(s) ... 100 To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) ... 101 To use the System Recovery CD(s) ... 104 Recovering Microsoft Word ... 105 Troubleshooting...107 Troubleshooting Your Notebook ...
Page 5 Troubleshooting the LCD Screen...114 My LCD screen is blank..114 My LCD screen continues to show the previous screen. .114 The image on my connected external display is not centered or sized properly..114 I want to change the video resolution of my display..114 Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad ...115 My mouse does not work...115 My touchpad does not work properly.
Page 6 Change text in this variable definition to document title. ers when using an i.LINK cable... 120 Troubleshooting the Modem... 120 My modem does not work..120 My modem connection is slow..121 Troubleshooting Audio ... 121 My speakers have no sound..121 My microphone does not work.
Page 7: Welcome
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® notebook, and welcome to the VAIO User Guide. This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software applications. In the left navigation window, click the topics you want to learn more about, and that information will be displayed in the main window.
Page 8 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 9: Using Your Vaio Notebook
Using Your VAIO Notebook This section describes the following aspects of your new computer: Using the Keyboard Using the Touchpad VAIO Action Setup Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using a PC Card Using Memory Stick Media Using Power Saving Modes Connecting a Phone Line Connecting to a LAN...
Page 10: Using The Keyboard
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to that of a typewriter, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Keyboard Shift Fn Key Alt Key Ctrl Key Windows Function Keys Numeric Keypad Area...
Page 11: Functions Of The Keyboard Keys
Functions of the keyboard keys Description Numeric keypad Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the area numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Note that you must press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad.
Page 12: Indicators
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Description Windows key The key with the Windows® logo displays the Windows Start menu; it is the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the task bar. See “Combinations and functions with the Windows key”...
Page 13: Indicator Lights
Indicator lights Light Hard disk Data is being read from or written to the hard drive. Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the notebook when this indicator light is on. Num Lock The number keys in the numeric keypad are active. Caps Lock Letters appear in uppercase as you type.
Page 14 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combination Function + Ctrl + F Displays the Search Results: Computers window where you can locate other computers. This is the equivalent of selecting Search and then Computers from the Start menu. Minimizes all displayed windows.
Page 15: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key
Combinations and functions with the Fn key If you switch user accounts during a computing session, the Fn+F7 and Fn+F8 key functionality (if available on your computer) will be interrupted. To switch to an external display or monitor, see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. Combination/ Feature Functions...
Page 16 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combination/ Feature Functions (F12) Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When Hibernate you execute this command, the state of the system and state of the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk and the system power is turned off.
Page 17: Using The Touchpad
Using the Touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Touchpad Touchpad Actions Descriptions Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item or object.
Page 18 Change text in this variable definition to document title. See Mouse Properties for information on touchpad features, such as clicking both buttons simultaneously, adjusting touchpad speed, and Easy Launcher functions. To access Mouse Properties, click Start, select Control Panel, then select Printers and other Hardware, and click the Mouse icon.
Page 19: Vaio Action Setup
VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your notebook’s center Jog Dial™ control and Timer. An overview of some of the functions controlled by VAIO Action Setup is provided below. For more information on changing the settings using VAIO Action Setup, right-click the Jog Dial Utility icon in the taskbar and click Help Topics.
Page 20: Using The Center Jog Dial Control
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Center Jog Dial Control Your notebook is equipped with a center Jog Dial™ control located below the touchpad and between the left and right buttons. The center Jog Dial control enables you to open an application, folder, or document from a predefined list by rotating and pressing the center Jog Dial control.
Page 21: Launcher Mode
Using the Center Jog Dial Control Launcher mode The Jog Dial control window is in launcher mode until a software application is launched or the Jog Dial control window becomes active. When you select an item in the Jog Dial window and it is displayed between orange bars, you can press the center Jog Dial control to view a submenu of that item.
Page 22: Guide Mode
The Jog Dial control window displays the function of the center Jog Dial control. Using the center Jog Dial control with Sony software If Sony software that supports the center Jog Dial control is active, you can use the functions of the center Jog Dial control that are allocated to that software. For more information on functions allocated to software, see the software application’s online Help.
Page 23: Using The Center Jog Dial Control With Other Software
Using the Center Jog Dial Control Using the center Jog Dial control with other software If the software you are using does not support the center Jog Dial control, you can still use the center Jog Dial control to scroll the window or adjust the window size.
Page 24: Using A Pc Card
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using a PC Card Your notebook includes one PC Card slot. A PC Card enables you to connect portable external devices, such as another hard disk drive, to your notebook. It also enables you to connect to a network using a PC Network Interface Card (NIC).
Page 25: To Remove A Pc Card
Push the the PC Card gently into the slot. The PC Card is automatically detected by your system. The the taskbar. Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are inserting the card with the correct orientation.
Page 26 Removing PC Card Gently grasp the PC Card and pull it out of the slot. Do not choose a USB disk or a Sony i.LINK optical drive in the Stop a Hardware device dialog box. If you removed a Sony i.LINK optical drive by mistake, disconnect the docking station and reconnect it.
Page 27 Using a PC Card are orienting the card correctly. See the manual that came with your PC Card for more information on its use.
Page 28: Using Memory Stick Media
MG Memory Stick media has the MG mark * MagicGate Memory Stick and † Memory Stick and media (hereafter called MG Memory media, which does not have the same copyright are trademarks of Sony Corporation. are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
Page 29 To insert a Memory Stick media Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing upward 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 in until it clicks in place. Inserting Memory Stick Media Insert Memory Stick media with arrow facing forward.
Page 30: Write-Protecting A Memory Stick Media
Change text in this variable definition to document title. When the Memory Stick media ejects, pull it out. Be careful when removing the Memory Stick media, as it may eject completely from the slot. Write-protecting a Memory Stick media Memory Stick media is designed with a write-protect tab to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.
Page 31: Notes On Memory Stick Media
Recorded music is limited to private use only. Using recorded music for any other purpose 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.
Page 32 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Do not use the media in locations that are subject to static electricity or electrical noise. Do not touch the media connector with your finger or metallic objects. Do not attach labels other than the supplied label to a media. Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the media.
Page 33: Using Power Saving Modes
Using Power Saving Modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your notebook, you can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your notebook has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.
Page 34: Notes On Power Saving Modes
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To activate Hibernate mode Press the key combination Fn + F12, or press the power button and release it immediately. The “Save to Disk Manager” window appears and the notebook enters Hibernate mode. Do not move the notebook until its power indicator turns off.
Page 35: Connecting A Phone Line
You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet. In order to register your Sony VAIO® notebook, register your software online, and use Sony Customer Support, you must connect the notebook to a phone line.
Page 36: Connecting To A Lan
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting to a LAN You can connect your notebook to 10Base-T and 100Base-TX-type Local Area Networks (LANs). For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, please ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Warning: Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the port.
Page 37: Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your notebook by connecting it to a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: Connecting the Docking Station Using the Floppy Disk Drive Using an Optical Disc Drive Connecting a Parallel Port Printer Connecting a USB Printer Connecting an External Display Connecting a USB Device...
Page 38: Connecting The Docking Station
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting the Docking Station Your notebook may come with a PCGA-DSD5 or PCGA-DSM5 docking station, depending on the model you purchased. Both Sony docking stations provide you with the following: A floppy disk drive.
Page 39 A back panel that enables you to connect additional peripherals to your notebook, as shown below. Back Panel USB ports Monitor port Serial port DC In port Left Left lever Air vent Connecting the Docking Station Ethernet port (10BaseT/100Base-TX) i.LINK® S400 port Printer port Floppy disk drive...
Page 40: Connecting The Notebook To The Docking Station
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Right Optical drive UNDOCK switch Connecting the notebook to the docking station You may connect your notebook to the docking station as long as it is not in power saving mode, i.e., Standby or Hibernate. Connecting the notebook while it is in power saving mode may result in data loss or a computer malfunction.
Page 41 Plug one end of the AC adapter cable into the DC In port of the docking station and the other end into an AC outlet. The LED of the DC In port switches on. Holding the notebook with the front side facing you, insert the two holes on the front of the notebook into the two corresponding latches protruding from the front side of the docking station.
Page 42: Disconnecting The Notebook From The Docking Station
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Securing the Notebook to the Docking Station Disconnecting the notebook from the docking station You may disconnect the notebook from the docking station when the notebook is off or on. However, do not disconnect the notebook from the docking station while the docking indicator is on, while the notebook is in Standby or Hibernate mode, or while battery power is low.
Page 43 Pull out the two release levers on either side of the rear corners of the docking station, to release the notebook from the docking station. Releasing the Notebook from the Docking Station Pull release levers on either side of rear corners of docking station Remove the notebook from the docking station, while moving the notebook slightly back to disengage it from the two front latches of the docking station.
Page 44 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Disconnecting the docking station when the notebook is on You can use the Start Menu in the Windows® task tray or the UNDOCK switch on the docking station to disconnect your notebook from the docking station while the notebook is on.
Page 45 Using the UNDOCK switch Pull the UNDOCK switch on the right side of your notebook. The “Undock Complete” dialog box appears. Once the “Undock Complete” dialog box appears, continue on to step 2 to finish undocking the notebook. This prevents you from leaving the notebook on the docking station in this released state for too long.
Page 46: Using The Floppy Disk Drive
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Floppy Disk Drive If your notebook came with a docking station, you may use the built-in floppy disk drive. However, if your notebook did not come with a docking station or you chose not to utilize the docking station drive, you may connect an optional PCGA-UFD5 floppy disk drive to one of the two USB ports, identified by the symbol, on your notebook.
Page 47 To remove a floppy disk After you finish using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator turns off. Press the Eject button to remove the floppy disk. Removing Floppy Disk Do not push the Eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.
Page 48: Using An Optical Disc Drive
DSD5 DVD Docking Station if your notebook came with a docking station. Both Sony docking stations have a built-in optical drive. If your notebook did not come with a docking station or you chose not to utilize the docking station drive, you may connect an optional optical drive (such as PCGA-CD51/A) to the PCMCIA PC Card slot.
Page 49 Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks into place. Make sure you seat the disc firmly over the hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage the optical drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
Page 50 Change text in this variable definition to document title. To play a DVD To play a DVD, you may use the optical disc drive and the preinstalled WinDVD® software. For more information on WinDVD, see the Help menu in the WinDVD application. Before you use the optical disc drive to play a DVD, close any open applications.
Page 51 ROM device” check box if it is not already selected and then click OK. To write data to CD-R or CD-RW disc You can use Sony SonicStage and Microsoft® Windows® XP to write data to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. To create a CD-R disc that is readable in a CD-ROM drive, make sure you finish the writing process before ejecting it.
Page 52: Notes On Cd And Dvd Discs
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Notes on CD and DVD discs Do not drop or bend the disc. Do not touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause reading errors. For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out.
Page 53: Connecting A Parallel Port Printer
Locate the Printer port, identified by the Plug the printer cable (supplied with the printer) into this Printer port. Ensure that the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software is properly set. See “To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen:” for more information.
Page 54: Connecting A Usb Printer
Locate the USB ports, identified by the printer. Plug the optional USB printer cable into one of the two USB ports. Ensure that the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software is properly set. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information.
Page 55: Connecting An External Display
Connecting an External Display You can connect a computer display (such as a monitor or a projector) to your notebook or docking station. The docking station is supplied with selected models only. A 1400 x 1050 screen resolution and 16-bit color mode when using an external display may not be fully supported on some external displays.
Page 56 Change text in this variable definition to document title. See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on its installation and use. Connecting Monitor You cannot use the Monitor port on your notebook when the docking station is connected to the notebook.
Page 57: To Connect A Projector
Connecting Monitor Display cable (optional) To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. Using the notebook Locate the Monitor port, identified by the notebook.
Page 58 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Press the key combination Fn + F7 to change the display to projector. Connecting projector Using the docking station Locate the Monitor port, identified by the the docking station. Plug the optional monitor adapter into this Monitor port. To Headphones Audio cable RGB signal cable...
Page 59 Plug the audio cable into the green Headphone jack on the right side of the notebook. Connecting projector Headphones See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and operation. You cannot use the Monitor port on your notebook when the docking station is connected to the notebook.
Page 60: Connecting A Usb Device
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Device You can connect a variety of Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices such as an external mouse, keyboard, speaker, and microphone to your notebook. To connect a USB device Using the notebook Locate a USB port, identified by the two USB ports on the notebook, one on the right side and one on the left...
Page 61 Connecting USB Device You can use an optional Sony USB mouse, such as a PCGA-UMS1 series, with this notebook. Since the USB mouse software driver is preinstalled in the notebook, you simply plug the USB mouse into the USB port to use it. One USB port supports one USB device.
Page 62: Connecting An I.link Device
Media” for more information on using Memory Stick media. Connecting Digital Video Camera Recorder * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper- ating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 63 Connecting an i.LINK Device Notes on i.LINK devices The above figure displays connection to a Sony digital video camera; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. Only Sony digital video cameras and ports labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK”...
Page 64: Connecting Vaio Computers
The computers can be identified by this unique name when the two computers are networked together. * i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper- ating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 65: If Your Notebook Is Connected To The Docking Station
If your notebook is connected to the docking station If you want to exchange data with another computer using the optional i.LINK cable and your notebook is connected to the docking station, perform the following: Disconnect your notebook from the docking station as described in the “Disconnecting the notebook from the docking station”...
Page 66 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Set the i.LINK network switch to the unmarked side.
Page 67: Connecting External Speakers
Connecting External Speakers You can connect external speakers to your notebook to enhance the sound quality of your notebook. See the manual that came with your speakers for more information on its installation and use. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers. The magnetic field of the speakers may damage the data on the floppy disks.
Page 68: Connecting An External Microphone
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Microphone You can use an external microphone to enhance the quality of the sound input. See the manual that came with your microphone for more information on its installation and use.
Page 69: Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities
A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) A Wireless LAN Access Point A Wireless LAN PC Card For information on available Sony products, go to http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio. Personal Digital Assistant A handheld PDA is the quintessential personal planner and entertainment center that fits in your pocket. With a PDA, you can easily perform the following...
Page 70: Wireless Lan Pc Card
Change text in this variable definition to document title. You can also connect your Access Point to a telephone line, Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) router, cable modem, or Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL) modem to share access to the Internet among multiple computers. Wireless LAN PC Card The Wireless LAN PC Card, which comes with the Wireless LAN Access Point, can be purchased separately and is designed for building a wireless LAN...
Page 71: Customizing Your Vaio Notebook
Customizing Your VAIO Notebook The following sections briefly describe how to change your notebook’s default settings: Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Controlling Power Management Displaying Battery Information Selecting the Display Mode...
Page 72: Displaying The Sony Notebook Setup Screen
Click Start on the Windows® taskbar. Point to VAIO and click Sony Notebook Setup. Sony Notebook Setup Screen Select the tab for the item you want to change. See “Sony Notebook Setup tabs” for more information. After you finish making your changes, click OK.
Page 73: Sony Notebook Setup Tabs
Initial Setting Touchpad Power On Password Enable Ports Basic/Advanced For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the Help file. Customizing Your VAIO Notebook Description Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.
Page 74: Controlling Power Management
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power settings of your notebook and provides key information about system activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your notebook’s battery power.
Page 75: Power Management Profiles
To customize Power Management settings You can customize power management settings, such as the system timer and the brightness of the screen. Click the Current Profile icon on the Power Management toolbar. Select Edit/Create Profiles from the menu. Click a profile whose setting you want to change, from the list in the left panel.
Page 76 Change text in this variable definition to document title. any of the predefined profiles (except for the Disable Power Management profile), or you can create your own profile to suit your portable computing needs. The predefined profiles are: Icon Description Maximum Performance Provides the best system performance while still conserving power.
Page 77 Controlling Power Management Icon Description Word Processing Optimizes power management with longer timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby to optimize power management for your system. Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications.
Page 78: Power Management Commands
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Power Management commands PowerPanel™ also provides power management commands that you can use to activate specific power management functions and to control power for a specific device. You can use these commands to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action.
Page 79: Displaying Battery Information
Displaying Battery Information You can display detailed information for each of the batteries in your notebook. The following sections briefly describe how to display your notebook’s general battery information. Refer to PowerPanel™ Help for more detailed information. To activate the battery information toolbar Right-click on the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.
Page 80: Displaying Detailed Battery Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Battery Icon Battery Status Fully charged Discharging No battery Displaying detailed battery information Double-click the battery icon on the task tray to display the Battery Information window. The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.
Page 81 Displaying Battery Information To customize the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system You can customize the Battery Information toolbar to suit your portable computing needs, including modifications to the alarm settings. Refer to PowerPanel™ Help for more information.
Page 82: Selecting The Display Mode
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Selecting the Display Mode This notebook uses the Intel® video controller, which enables you to select the desired display when the notebook is connected to an external monitor. When you connect an external display, you can switch the display mode between your notebook’s LCD display and the external monitor.
Page 83 Click the Settings tab, then click the Advanced button to display the Intel® 82815 Graphics Controller Properties dialog box. Intel® 82815 Graphics Controller Properties Screen Click the Intel® 82815 Graphics Technology tab, then click the Graphics Properties button. Click the Driver Configuration tab. Ensure that the Synchronous Display Mode box is selected, then click Apply.
Page 84: To Change The Window Design Of Sony Software
Click << or >> and select the desired design. Click Apply. The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The window design for your Sony software will match the “UI Design Selector” window. To try another selection, click << or >> and then click OK to close the UI Design Selector.
Page 85: Adding Memory
Personal injury or equipment damage may result from failure to take these precautions. Sony recommends memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, see http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 86: Typical Expansion Memory Configuration
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage disk drives and other components. Perform the procedures described below only at an ESD workstation. If such a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area, and do not handle materials that produce or hold static electricity (cellophane wrappers, for example).
Page 87: Removing A Memory Module
Removing a Memory Module Turn off your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery packs. After the notebook has cooled, loosed and remove the two screws with the mark located on the bottom of your notebook. Use an appropriate screwdriver.
Page 88: Installing A Memory Module
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Installing a Memory Module Turn off your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery packs. After the notebook has cooled, loosed and remove the two screws with the mark located on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 89 Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side, then gently turn it over on the touchpad space. Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard. Turning the Keyboard Cable You must remove the existing memory module before you can install a new module.
Page 90 Change text in this variable definition to document title. 10 Press the module into place until it clicks. Installing the Memory Module 11 Gently replace the keyboard, then press it into your notebook. Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard. Replacing the Keyboard...
Page 91 Installing a Memory Module 12 Close the notebook cover, then tighten the screws on the bottom of the computer.
Page 92: Viewing The Amount Of Memory
The amount of memory displayed in the Sony Notebook Setup screen is not always correct. The video adapter uses some system memory, and that amount of memory does not appear as part of the total memory shown in the Sony Notebook Setup screen.
Page 93: About The Software On Your Notebook
About the Software on Your Notebook Your VAIO® notebook is ready to help you work, play, learn, and communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section provides you the following information: Overview of the Software on Your Notebook Using Your Recovery CDs Overview of the Software on Your Notebook Your notebook may not be supplied with all the software listed below, depending...
Page 94 Digital Print Sony Electronics Inc. This image management software makes it fun and easy to edit, import, and organize your digital pictures in a photo album for rich digital printing to any standard color laser or inkjet printer.
Page 95 MovieShaker™ Sony Electronics Inc. Sony’s original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have transitions, background music, and text. Just import your video clips and “shake” with a click of the mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to...
Page 96 Sony Electronics Inc. This image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica® camera. The images appear in a convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder.
Page 97 Sony Electronics Inc. Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart Capture manages the i.LINK connection between your notebook and a Sony Digital Handycam Camcorder that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture compressed video or still images and save them to your hard disk drive or share via e-mail.
Page 98 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Sony on Yahoo! Yahoo! Inc. Personalize your own web portal with Sony on Yahoo! Get a free webmail account, customized news and local weather reports, comics, and more. SonyStyle Connect Sony Electronics Inc.
Page 99: Application, Driver, And System Recovery Cds
Your notebook comes with the following application, driver, and system recovery CDs. See “Using Your Recovery CDs” for information. Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are erased.
Page 100: Using Your Recovery Cds
CD(s)” for more information. You must be in Windows® to run the Application Recovery CD. If you have any questions on using the Application Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. Turn on your notebook. If your notebook is already on, close all applications.
Page 101: To Use The Driver Recovery Cd(S)
To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) The Driver Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual drivers if they become corrupted or are erased. You can reinstall an individual driver to correct a problem that you are experiencing with your notebook, hardware, or software application.
Page 102 Change text in this variable definition to document title. From the Action menu, click Uninstall. This will remove the device driver from your system. Click OK to confirm this action. Repeat as necessary. Reboot your computer. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and click Turn Off Computer, then Restart.
Page 103 Click Performance and Maintenance, then click System. The System Properties dialog box appears. From the Hardware tab, click Device Manager. Click to highlight the device for which you wish to reinstall the driver. From the Actions menu, choose Properties. The Properties dialog box for that device appears Properties dialog box Click Reinstall Driver.
Page 104: To Use The System Recovery Cd(S)
If you have any questions on using the System Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the optical drive. Shut down your notebook as described in the “Shutting Down Your Notebook” section of your printed Quick Start.
Page 105: Recovering Microsoft Word
Press the power button and hold it for more than 4 seconds to turn off the notebook. Turn on the notebook. When the Sony logo is displayed, press the F2 key. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 106 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 107: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony PC Support (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). Consult the following sections: Troubleshooting Your Notebook Troubleshooting the Docking Station...
Page 108: Troubleshooting Your Notebook
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Your Notebook My notebook does not start. Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the notebook indicates that the power is on.
Page 109: My Notebook Starts, But The Message "Operating System Not Found" Appears And Windows Does Not Start
Turn off the notebook. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the notebook. Turn on the notebook. Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu window appears. Press the directional arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 110: My Notebook Stops Responding Or Does Not Turn Off
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Use the directional arrow keys to select “Exit” (Save Changes), then press Enter. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?” appears. 10 Select Yes, then press Enter. The notebook restarts. If your notebook continues to display the message “Operating system not found,”...
Page 111: My Notebook Is Unstable
My notebook is unstable. Your notebook’s operating system may become unstable if a lower power state, such as Hibernate, is initiated then changed before the notebook completely enters the lower power state. To restore the notebook to its normal operating stability: Close all open applications.
Page 112: Troubleshooting The Docking Station
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the Docking Station I cannot operate the optical drive in the docking station, when the docking station is connected to the notebook. Follow these steps to set the i.LINK network switch. Disconnect your notebook from the docking station.
Page 113: I Cannot Remove The Disc
Troubleshooting the Docking Station I cannot remove the disc. You cannot remove the disc when the notebook is in power saving mode. Return to normal mode, then press the Eject button. The disc tray does not eject even after I press the Eject button. Open the tray by inserting a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip) in the manual eject hole.
Page 114: Troubleshooting The Lcd Screen
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the LCD Screen My LCD screen is blank. Verify that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned Verify that the power indicator on the notebook is on. Verify that the battery pack(s) is inserted properly and is charged.
Page 115: Troubleshooting The Mouse And Touchpad
Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad My mouse does not work. If you are using an optional Sony PCGA-UMS1 series USB mouse, verify that the mouse is plugged into the USB port. See “Connecting a USB Device” for more information. If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Driver Recovery CD to reinstall the mouse drivers.
Page 116: The Pointer Does Not Move (While Using The Touchpad Or Mouse)
Change text in this variable definition to document title. The pointer does not move (while using the Touchpad or Mouse). Press the Windows key, then press the “u” key to select Turn Off Computer, and press “u” again to turn off the computer. If you cannot turn off your notebook as described in the step above, press Ctrl+Alt+Delete simultaneously and click Turn Off Computer on the Windows Security window to restart the notebook.
Page 117: Troubleshooting Drives, Pc Cards, And Peripheral Devices
Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards, and Peripheral Devices Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards, and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive cannot write to a floppy disk. If the floppy disk is write-protected, disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not write-protected. Verify that the floppy disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.
Page 118: I Cannot Use Digital Video (Dv) Devices. The Message "Dv
Check that the PC Card is installed properly. Check that the PC Card is compatible with Microsoft® Windows®. Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not currently using. Check that any necessary drivers were installed properly. See “To use the Driver Recovery CD(s)”...
Page 119: Troubleshooting The Software
Troubleshooting the Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See “Software Support Information” for contact information. When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application CD into your optical drive” appears and the software does not start.
Page 120: Troubleshooting I.link Devices
Check that the phone line is working by plugging the line in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone. i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product con- tains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depend- ing on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK...
Page 121: My Modem Connection Is Slow
Verify that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. Verify that the software you are using is compatible with the notebook’s modem. (All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible.) If you are still experiencing problems, use your the Driver Recovery CD to reinstall the modem drivers.
Page 122: My Microphone Does Not Work
The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode. In the Sony Notebook Setup screen, select the Printer tab. If the printer port mode is set to ECP, change it to bi-directional.
Page 123 Your connected printer may not function after the notebook resumes from a power saving mode. If this occurs, proceed as follows to reset the printer connection: Click Start and select Control Panel. Click the Printers folder. Right-click on the icon of the printer that is malfunctioning, and select Properties to access the Properties window.
Page 124: Troubleshooting I.link Devices
(Standby or Hibernate). If that happens, restart the computers to establish a connection. * i.LINK is a Sony trademark used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 con- nection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 125: Getting Help
Getting Help Sony provides you with several support options to answer questions about your VAIO notebook or the preinstalled software. Refer to these resources in the order listed. Support Options VAIO® Notebook User Guide and VAIO® Notebook Quick Start The online VAIO® User Guide and printed VAIO® Quick Start provide you with information on how to maximize your notebook capabilities and solve common problems.
Page 126 To contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call: 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). Calling Sony Customer Support Sony provides software support free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. You can speak with a Sony Customer Support Representative without using your notebook by calling:...
Page 127: Software Support Information
Microsoft Office XP Pro, XP Small Business, Word (Microsoft Corp.) Web site http://www.microsoft.com/support telephone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. PC-Cillin® Web site http://www.antivirus.com/pc-cillin telephone 949-387-7800 hours M-F 8 A.M - 5 P.M.
Page 128 M-F, 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. Pacific time Sony Applications (Sony Electronics Inc.) Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport telephone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972) hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day * Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of pur- chase.
Page 129 WinDVD® (InterVideo Inc.) Web site http://www.intervideo.com/jsp/Support.jsp e-mail support@intervideo.com Sony Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972) or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport. Software Support Information...
Page 130 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 131: Index
Index About This Computer tab AC Profile power setting Access Point, Wireless LAN adjusting brightness Alt key Application Recovery CD Applications key audio troubleshooting Basic/Advanced tab battery pack charge status icons indicator lights power management settings power saving modes BatteryScope utility brightness adjusting built-in speaker...
Page 132 Change text in this variable definition to document title. correction keys Ctrl key cursor-movement keys digital video camera recorder diskettes ejecting handling inserting into drive troubleshooting display connecting external connecting projector mode options selecting docking station troubleshooting Driver Recovery CD drives installing additional hard disk troubleshooting...
Page 133 Jog Dial 9–?? keyboard Fn key using Windows key Launcher Mode selecting to display output troubleshooting MagicGate Maximum Battery Life power setting Maximum Performance power setting memory adding viewing the amount of memory module expansion Memory Stick card slot Memory Stick media displaying contents microphone connecting...
Page 134 Basic/Advanced tab displaying Power On Password tab Printer tab 16, 33 Touchpad tab setup tabs Shift key software troubleshooting Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Notebook Setup screen speakers external troubleshooting Start button 76, 78 support options switching display monitor System Hibernation mode...
Page 135 Memory Stick phone line touchpad VAIO Action Setup using PC Card 19, 98 VAIO Action Setup VAIO® Action Setup video camera recorder viewing the amount of memory window design of Sony software Windows key combinations Wireless LAN Access Point Index...

Sony VAIO PCG-R505JL User Manual

Welcome

Using Your VAIO Notebook

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Customizing Your VAIO Notebook

Adding Memory

About the Software on Your Notebook

Troubleshooting

Getting Help

Index

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for Sony VAIO PCG-R505JL

Summary of Contents for Sony VAIO PCG-R505JL

Table of Contents