Page 1  Go to the Sony Online Support Web Site, to view the VAIO Computer Specifications which lists your computer's ® hardware specifications and preinstalled software information.  For Sony software information, click Start and Welcome to VAIO Life. Page 1...
Page 2: Getting Started
Getting Started Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia computer combines ® state-of-the-art computer functionality with the latest audio, video and information technology features.  Unpacking Your Computer  Planning an Ergonomic Work Space...
Page 3: Unpacking Your Computer
Unpacking Your Computer Your computer may not be supplied with all of the accessories shown, depending on the system configuration purchased. For details on the accessories supplied with your computer, see the online Specifications sheet. Your VAIO computer is not supplied with System or Application Recovery CDs. Use the VAIO Recovery utility to recover ®...
Page 4 For more information about hard disk drive recovery Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Help and Support. ® From the VAIO Help And Support Center menu, click VAIO Recovery Options. Other A Software Library, containing the Microsoft software and Sony end-user license agreements. Page 4...
Page 5: Planning An Ergonomic Work Space
Planning an Ergonomic Work Space Before you set up your new computer, find the best location for your new computer and plan your work space. There are several ergonomic factors to consider when you arrange your work space:  Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral equipment.
Page 6: Locating Controls And Ports
Locating Controls And Ports This section is intended to familiarize you with the controls, ports and jacks on your computer. Your computer may not be equipped with all of these hardware features, and the location of the controls, ports, and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown in this section.
Page 7: About The Front Panel
About the Front Panel The front panel of your VAIO computer enables access to the optical and floppy disk drives. On certain models, the front ® panel also provides access to a Memory Stick media slot, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder features, SmartMedia , ®...
Page 8 Standby indicator Light is amber when the computer is in Stand by mode. Memory Stick media slot and access indicator Reads and writes data from and to a Memory Stick media. The access indicator is amber when reading or writing data to a ®...
Page 9 CompactFlash/Microdrive media card slot Reads and writes data from and to CompactFlash or Microdrive media. SmartMedia card slot Reads and writes data from and to a SmartMedia media. Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) ports Connections for compatible high/full/low-speed USB devices. i.LINK 4-pin S400 port (IEEE 1394) Connection for a compatible digital device.
Page 10: About The Back Panel
About the Back Panel The back panel of your computer contains the ports for supplied and optional accessories. The icons on the back panel locate and identify the ports and jacks on your computer. Your configuration may vary based on the system you purchased. Back panel AC Input port Connection for the supplied power cord.
Page 11 Microphone jack Connection for a microphone (optional). Headphones jack Connection for the supplied speakers or optional headphones. Line In jack Connection for an audio device. Monitor port Connection for a standard display. Composite audio R In jack Connection for an audio or stereo dubbing cable (optional). Composite audio L In jack Connection for an audio or stereo dubbing cable (optional).
Page 12 Ethernet port Connection for a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet interface. (The port marked with (Network) is for LAN connections only.) Monitor (DVI) port Connection for a DVI monitor. TV Out (S-Video/video) jack Connection for an S-video cable (optional). VHF/UHF port Connection for a coaxial cable (supplied). N ot available on all models .
Page 13 Connection for a PS/2 mouse. ® Keyboard port Connection for a PS/2 keyboard. ® Ethernet port Connection for a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet interface. (The port marked with (Network) is for LAN connections only.) Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) ports (2) Connections for compatible high/full/low-speed USB devices. Monitor port Connection for a display.
Page 14 Connection for the modem cable to the wall jack. i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, operating system, and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
Page 15: About The Remote Control
About the Remote Control Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder features are controlled with the remote control. The remote control can start and stop video recording and playback, select channels, and set viewing preferences. This section describes the basic functions of your remote control. Rem ote control (for m odels equipped with Giga Pocket features) MUTE button Press to turn off the sound.
Page 16 ENTER button Press to activate channel selection. See Channel number buttons. REC STOP button Press to stop recording. (Note: The REC STOP function is available for Giga Pocket software only.) REC button Press to begin recording. (Note: The REC function is available for Giga Pocket software only.) TV button Press to change from the on-screen image to the TV/Recording deck.
Page 17 APPLICATION START button Press to launch the Giga Pocket software. VOLUME button Press to raise or lower the volume. STANDBY button Press to place the system into Stand by mode. (Note: You cannot place the computer into Stand by mode when certain Giga Pocket functions are running.) AUDIO button Press to view available sound mode options on the monitor/display.
Page 18 STOP button Press to stop playback. PLAY button Press to begin playback. PAUSE button Press to pause playback. MENU button Press to view a shortcut menu of available software applications. Press again to hide this menu. (Note: For Giga Pocket software, the Select Video Capsules window displays. Press the button again to hide this window.) TOOLS button The function of this button may vary between DVD media.
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Page 20: About The Keyboard
About the Keyboard Your VAIO keyboard uses a standard key arrangement with additional keys that perform specific functions. ® VAIO Keyboard DESCRIPTION Function The 12 function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform certain tasks. The task associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next.
Page 21 Caps Lock The Caps Lock indicator lights up to advise you that the keyboard is set to type letters in uppercase. When the indicator is off, the letters appear in lower case as you type. Scroll Lock The Scroll Lock indicator lights up to advise you that your screen's scrolling pattern has changed. When the indicator is off, the screen scrolls normally.
Page 22: Setting Up Your Computer
Setting Up Your Computer Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features described in the section. The location of the controls, ports, and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown. See the online specifications sheet for your system's specific hardware configuration.
Page 23: Connecting A Display (Monitor)
Connecting a Display (Monitor) Plug the display's cable into the appropriate monitor port. If necessary, plug the display's cable into the back of the display. To connect a display To connect a DVI display Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency. Page 23...
Page 24: Connecting The Speakers
Connecting the Speakers The right and left speakers are attached. The right speaker has a speaker wire with a jack connector and an AC power cord that supplies power to both speakers. From the right speaker, plug the jack connector into the Headphones jack located on the back panel of your computer.
Page 25: Connecting The Keyboard And Mouse
Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse Plug the keyboard cable into the keyboard port on the back of the computer. Plug the mouse cable into the mouse port on the back of the computer. To connect the keyboard and m ouse To use an optical mouse An optical mouse requires an ideal surface in order to provide proper pointing and tracking.
Page 26: Connecting The Telephone And Modem Cables
Connecting the Telephone and Modem Cables Unplug your telephone from the wall jack and plug its cable into the telephone jack located on the back panel of your computer. Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the modem line jack located on the back panel of your computer Plug the other end of the modem cable into the wall jack.
Page 27: Connecting The Power Cords
Connecting the Power Cords Plug the power cord into the AC Input port, located on the back panel of the computer. Plug both the display and computer power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip. To connect the power cords Page 27...
Page 28: Turning On Your Computer
Turning On your Computer When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new equipment and display a dialog box that prompts you to restart your computer. Respond to this prompt immediately. Press the power button on the computer to turn on the power. Press the power button on the display to turn on the power.
Page 29: Registering Your Computer
Registering your Computer Take advantage of Sony's commitment to quality customer support and receive these benefits by registering your computer:  Sony Customer Support — Communicate with a Support Representative to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.
Page 30 Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a suite of interactive Sony audio and video components that are designed to create, capture, and play back video files derived from television and your personal videos. Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder hardware and software applications are not available on all VAIO computers.
Page 31: About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a unique set of tools that enhance your VAIO computer's capabilities. Giga Pocket ® gives you a wide range of video viewing, recording, and playback capabilities, such as: ...
Page 32 You can change the format your Giga Pocket contents and transfer them onto a Memory Stick ® media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ Handheld. Accessing the Giga Pocket Help For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select All Programs.
Page 33 Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder This section illustrates how to set up the cables and connections for your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder system. The hardware configuration of your computer may vary from the illustrations shown. To view the specific hardware configuration for your computer, see the online specifications sheet.
Page 34 To set up TV connections The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type of cable connection available in your home. Your VAIO Computer is supplied with an antenna cable. Depending on your in-home cable access, you may require ®...
Page 35 You can connect your Giga Pocket system to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or 2 from the previous section, Connecting to standard cable access (CATV). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (optional) to connect your computer and the indoor/outdoor antenna system.
Page 36 Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display. To connect in STB m ode (Option 1) Option 2 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (supplied) to your cable service access.
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Page 38 To set up additional equipment This section illustrates how to set up additional equipment with the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder System. Connecting a VCR or camcorder with an audio cable Your VAIO computer has both audio and video connection capability. You can locate the connections behind the bottom ®...
Page 39 Connecting the infrared receiv er (back panel) Page 39...
Page 40 Setting Up Giga Pocket Software Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software features and functions are detailed in this section, enabling you to begin viewing or recording TV programs. Page 40...
Page 41 To set up TV viewing When you start Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for the first time, you are automatically prompted to set the video input source for watching TV or cable TV (CATV) programs on your computer. Starting Giga Pocket for TV Setup (For first time setup) Verify that the computer time and date settings as displayed in the taskbar are correct.
Page 42 Click Next. The wizard displays a dialog box that enables you to customize the channel listings. Click Auto Scan. You can view the channel reception in the pop-up TV Setup - Monitor window. TV Setup Wizard - Custom ize the channel listing If your computer is connected to the Internet, you can click Go to Web Site...
Page 43 Type in a password and click Finish. Setting up your display (monitor) When using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, set your display settings as follows:  Colors — Use the default factory settings (32-bit).  Screen area — Use the default video resolution. If you change the default settings, you may experience poor image quality on your display.
Page 44 Giga Pocket Giga Pocket enables you to watch a TV program on your computer display while recording it onto your hard disk drive. Using the Giga Pocket Slip Play feature, you can view a program from the beginning even while it is being recorded. Page 44...
Page 45 Starting Giga Pocket Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, then click Giga Pocket. The ® Giga Pocket window appears. Giga Pocket window The current television broadcast is displayed, based on the selected channel. Page 45...
Page 46 Using the TV/Recording deck and Playback deck Giga Pocket features two decks on the main interface window: the TV/Recording deck and the Playback deck. TV/Recording deck (detail) Use the TV/Recording deck to view programs and record Video Capsules. You can use the Playback deck of your Giga Pocket to play back a prerecorded Video Capsule.
Page 47 Recording a Video Capsule Giga Pocket stores recorded images as Video Capsules. The Video Capsules provide file recording information, which can be viewed through Giga Pocket Explorer. Manage your Video Capsules with Giga Pocket Explorer. You cannot record a program into a previously recorded Video Capsule. All new content is recorded into a new Video Capsule.
Page 48  You record a TV channel that has no broadcast content.  You record video content from an old video tape with poor signal quality.  The on-screen display may shift and split under some circumstances. If this occurs, switch the TV/Recording deck and the playback deck, or switch the channel.
Page 49 Using the TV Program Web site Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, and then select Zap2it. You can also go directly to the Web site at http://www.sony.com/vaiotv. Timer Recording requires an Internet connection. See the section, To set up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service, for information on setting up for first-time use.
Page 50: Timer Recording Wizard
Timer Recording Wizard With the Timer Recording Wizard, you can set, adjust, and cancel the timer recording settings. Page 50...
Page 51 Using the Timer Recording Wizard Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, then select Giga Pocket. Select Timer Recording Wizard. The Timer Recording Wizard dialog box appears. Tim er Recording Wizard Select the desired option from the Select Timer Recording Settings menu and click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Page 52 automatically programmed into the appropriate Timer Recording Wizard fields. You can set the stop time for your timer recording and select the recording mode. The stop time is automatically programmed into the Timer Recording Wizard. Verify the stop time, choose a recording mode, and then click Next Recording Mode Description Standard Play (SP)
Page 53 Select a date for the recorded program to be automatically deleted from your hard disk drive, using the Expiration date of Video Capsule drop-down list. To maintain adequate space on your hard disk drive, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder enables you to set an expiration date for your Video Capsules to be automatically deleted.
Page 54 Additional information about the Timer Recording Wizard  Timer recording requires approximately 30 seconds (pre-recording) preparation time prior to beginning each recording session. Please keep this in mind when setting up multiple, back-to-back recording sessions. Giga Pocket software stops the current timer recording, pauses to prepare, and then begins the next timer recording according to the set start time.
Page 55: Timer Recording Manager
Timer Recording Manager The Timer Recording Manager keeps track of all scheduled TV recordings. Your computer settings, by default, are set to start Timer Recording Manager automatically when the computer is turned on. Timer recordings are being performed when the Timer Recording Manager icon (Timer Recording Manager) is visible in the Windows taskbar.
Page 56 Using the Timer Recording Manager Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, select Giga Pocket, and then click All Software. ® Click Timer Recording Manager. The Timer Recording Manager dialog box appears:  Windows Stand by button — Places the Windows operating system into Stand by mode when the preset timer recording is set to begin, or if a Video Capsule is set to expire.
Page 57 Viewing your selected program recording schedule You can easily view the programs you have selected to record, using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder. The Timer Recording Manager feature enables you to change or cancel your timer recording at any time. To view your scheduled timer recordings, follow these steps: Double-click on the Timer Recording Manager icon , located in the Windows...
Page 58 Cabinets. Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to play back Video Capsules using Giga Pocket. You can import MPEG files, that were created with compatible Sony applications, and export Video Capsules as AVI or MPEG files. Using Giga Pocket Explorer Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, point to Giga Pocket Explorer.
Page 59 Accessing the DVgate Plus software Help For additional information about using DVgate Plus software features, follow these steps to access the Help. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to DVgate Plus and click DVgate Plus Help. Page 59...
Page 60 Recording Video Capsules onto recordable DVD media You can record Video Capsules to DVD-R/DVD-RW media with the Make DVD feature. The Click to DVD software must be installed in order to burn Video Capsules to recordable DVD media. From the Giga Pocket Explorer main window, select the Video Capsules you want to burn onto a DVD. On the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar, click Make DVD.
Page 61 Exporting Video Capsules You can export your Video Capsules as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, or AVI file formats for viewing on external media. In the list area, right-click the Video Capsule you want to export. A shortcut menu appears. Select Export. The Export dialog box appears. Export dialog box Enter an output name for the file you want to export and specify the location for the exported file.
Page 62 Using Network Cabinets Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to connect to Video Capsules in network cabinets located on other computers in the network. These network cabinets can be accessed through the Giga Pocket Explorer main window when you are connected to the network.
Page 63: Clié Converter
Handheld personal entertainment organizers provide a rich and compelling handheld computing experience. Powered by the Palm operating system, the CLIÉ handheld is ready to deliver music and video with amazing clarity. For more information on this exciting device, go to the Sony Style Web site at http://sonystyle.com/vaio/clie. Page 63...
Page 64 Starting CLIÉ Converter Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to Giga Pocket, point to Plug-ins, and then click CLIÉ Converter. The Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box appears. Giga Pocket - > CLIÉ Conv erter m ain Page 64...
Page 65 Converting Video Capsules From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box, click the Setting... button. The Settings dialog box appears. Enter your desired settings and click OK. Start Giga Pocket Explorer as follows: Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select All Programs. Select Giga Pocket, and then click Giga Pocket Explorer.
Page 66 Transferring converted video files to a Memory Stick media Insert a Memory Stick media into the Memory Stick media slot on your computer. ® From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window, click to select the videos you want to transfer to the Memory Stick media.
Page 67 Glossary The most common terms for Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software are defined below. Cabinet A cabinet acts as a container for Video Capsules in Giga Pocket Explorer. A network cabinet is located on other computers in a network environment. CATV Refers to Community Access Television, otherwise known as cable television.
Page 68 Accessing the Giga Pocket Help For more information about Giga Pocket, follow these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs. Point to Giga Pocket, point to Help, and then select Giga Pocket Help. Page 68...
Page 69: Internet Electronic Program Guide Service
Internet Electronic Program Guide Service Internet Electronic Program Guide is a free, online service that enables quick and easy access to your local TV listings. You can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service with your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for a "one-click" set up of timer recordings and record your favorite TV programs Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder must be set up and configured correctly before you can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service.
Page 70 To set up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service You must be connected to the Internet, before setting up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service. Sony recommends using Microsoft Internet Explorer as your Web browser to access the Internet Electronic Program ®...
Page 71: Configuring Your Vaio Computer
Configuring Your VAIO Computer This section provides basic information about managing your computer's supplied hardware components. Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features described in this section, depending on the system configuration purchased. To view the specific hardware configuration for your computer, see the online Specifications sheet.
Page 72 You can store different data formats on a single Memory Stick media. Currently, Sony SonicStage and OpenMG software are not compatible with the new Memory Stick PRO media. Sony ® suggests using only MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage or OpenMG software.
Page 73 Additional information about Memory Stick media If your computer does not recognize your Memory Stick media, you may have removed the media from the Memory Stick ® slot before data access had completed. If this occurs, follow these steps: Remove the Memory Stick media from the slot. Shut down your computer by closing any open software programs, and then turn off your computer.
Page 74 About the SmartMedia Card Slot Your VAIO computer may be equipped with a SmartMedia card slot that supports SmartMedia cards. For details on the ® specific hardware configuration for your system, see the online Specifications sheet. Inserting a SmartMedia card Insert a SmartMedia card into the SmartMedia card slot.
Page 75 Do not remove the SmartMedia card while the media access indicator light is on. The media or its data may become damaged. Additonal information about SmartMedia cards If you plan to share your media card between your VAIO computer and devices such as a digital camera or music player, ®...
Page 76 About the CompactFlash/Microdrive Media Slot Your VAIO computer may be equipped with a CompactFlash /Microdrive media slot that supports CompactFlash and ® ® Microdrive media. For details on the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the online Specifications sheet. Inserting a CompactFlash or Microdrive media card Insert a CompactFlash or Microdrive media card into the media card slot.
Page 77  If your device does not recognize the media that has been formatted by your computer: Save the media contents to your hard disk drive. Reformat the media with the device. Page 77...
Page 78 Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software programs, operating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not communicate with each other.
Page 79 To view the specific connection capabilities for your system, see the online specifications sheet. For detailed information about upgrading your computer, see your model's System Reference Manual. You can download the System Reference Manual from the Sony Online Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 80 Overview The upgrading procedures described in this section assume that you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal computers, safety practices, required regulatory compliances, and the modification of electronic equipment. Before upgrading your computer Disconnect the computer from its power source and from telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the unit or follow any procedures described in this section.
Page 81 About Opening the System Unit Removing the cover Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and disconnect any peripheral devices. Position the system unit so that the back panel is facing towards you. Unscrew the three cover release screws located on the edges of the back panel and set aside.
Page 82 Replacing the cover Carefully align the cover to the chassis frame. The cover should align evenly against the chassis. Slide the cover firmly onto the unit, sliding it forward until the cover snaps into place. Replace the release screws. Replacing the cov er Page 82...
Page 83 9.05 inches. Add-on card configuration varies by model. Some models, such as Configure-to-Order (CTO) systems, may contain preinstalled add-on cards. Observe the proper safety precautions when you add cards to your Sony computer. See Before upgrading your computer. Installing an add-on card Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer.
Page 84 Attach any internal cables that the card requires. See the instructions supplied with the add-on card. Replace the cover. See Replacing the cover. Reconnect the power cord and all peripheral devices. Turn on the computer. Page 84...
Page 85: About Installing Memory
About Installing Memory The amount of preinstalled memory may vary, depending on the system configuration you purchased. Your computer may ship with all available memory slots filled. For memory replacement or upgrades, use the correct memory module for your computer's configuration. See the online Specifications sheet for details about the amount and type of memory installed in your computer.
Page 86 Shut down your computer and turn off all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug your computer and any peripheral devices. Remove the cover. See Removing the cover. Gently place the unit on its side. If necessary, remove any cables, add-on cards, or other components to access the memory module slots.
Page 87: About The Lithium Battery
About the Lithium Battery The lithium battery starts to weaken after several years and the system settings, such as the date and time stored in CMOS RAM, may become inaccurate. Replace the lithium battery when this occurs. There is danger of the battery exploding if it is replaced incorrectly. Replace the battery only with a CR2032-type lithium battery.
Page 88 Dispose of the lithium battery properly. In some areas, the disposal of lithium batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. You can return your unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service Center. To locate a Service Center near you, visit the Sony Online Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.
Page 89: About Hard Disk Drive Installation
Configure-to-Order (CTO) systems, may already have a second hard disk drive installed. Your system can support ATA-33, ATA-66, or ATA-100 hard disk drives. Sony recommends using an ATA-100 hard disk drive to take full advantage of your system's features.
Page 90 Detach the power and drive cables from the original hard disk drive that is preinstalled in your computer. Release the drive holder from the chassis by removing the drive holder screw. Slide the drive holder out. Rem ov ing the driv e holder Slide the new drive into the drive holder and align the holes on each side of the drive to the holes in the Drive holder.
Page 91 14. Connect the second power connector to the new drive, following the instructions supplied with the drive. Replacing the driv e holder 15. Replace the cover. See Replacing the cover. 16. Reconnect the power cord to your computer. Identifying the additional hard disk space When you initialize the new hard disk, it must be configured as an extended partition in Windows NT file system (NTFS) format.
Page 92: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting This section describes how to troubleshoot common problems. You can also find helpful information on how to use your computer's hardware features and preinstalled software. Your computer may not be equipped with all of the features or software discussed in this section, depending on the system configuration purchased. ...
Page 93: About Vaio Computer Functions
About VAIO Computer Functions My computer does not start.  Verify that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator is lit on the front panel of the computer. ...
Page 94 About VAIO Computer Functions My computer does not start.  Verify that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator is lit on the front panel of the computer. ...
Page 95 Why did my computer or software stop responding? You can try to locate and close the software application that has stopped responding. Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys. The Windows Task Manager window appears. From the Applications tab, locate the application that has the status message, "Not responding." Select the application that has a Not Responding status and click End Task.
Page 96 Why does the Windows operating system stop responding during shutdown? The Windows operating system may not shut down properly for many reasons, including incompatible or conflicting drivers, damaged files, or non-responsive hardware. For troubleshooting information, you can search Windows Help. Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Help and Support.
Page 97 Why is my system running slowly?  The system responsiveness varies depending with the number of applications that are open and running. Close any applications that you are not currently using.  Increasing the system memory may also help. For information on installing memory, please see the online VAIO User Guide.
Page 98 How do I change the video resolution of my display? Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select Control Panel. Select Appearance and Themes, and then select Change the screen resolution. Click the Settings tab. Change the Screen resolution and Color quality to the desired levels. Click Apply and then click OK.
Page 99: About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder This section describes how to troubleshoot common problems you may encounter when using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder functions. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions before you contact Sony Customer Support. Page 99...
Page 100 Why can't I see an image or an image that is displayed properly when I am using a VCR? Some images from an externally-connected video player device or a video game console, may not display or are not displayed correctly. These images include: ...
Page 101 Why does my Giga Pocket viewing window or the images played back from a Video Capsule, appear distorted or corrupted? There are some situations where screen or image distortion may occur, such as:  When you change the channel on the video player device. ...
Page 102 Why does my system seem to slow down when I play a Video Capsule? Your computer may respond slower if you try to play back a Video Capsule while recording a TV program with Giga Pocket. During a timer recording, Giga Pocket may interrupt or stop your Video Capsule playback to prioritize your computer's resources for the timer recording.
Page 103 Why did I get the error message, "Event buffer of audio overflow?" The timer recording may fail in certain situations, such as:  The coaxial cable (input) is disconnected after recording has started.  The TV channel has lost broadcast signal during the recording session. ...
Page 104 Why did my on-screen display shift or split? Your on-screen display may shift or split in rare instances. If this should occur, switch the TV/Recording deck and the playback deck, or try switching the channel. Your timer recording continues even if the on-screen display has shifted or split.
Page 105 Why did Giga Pocket stop allowing me to create new Video Capsules? You cannot create a new Video Capsule when the remaining free space on your hard disk drive reaches approximately 100 MB. Delete any unnecessary Video Capsules or files to increase the free space on your hard drive. Page 105...
Page 106: About Using The Optical Disc Drive(S)
About Using the Optical Disc Drive(s) Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this section. To view the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the online Specifications sheet. Page 106...
Page 107 Why doesn't my optical drive tray open? To use the Eject button Make sure the computer is turned on. Press the Eject button on the drive. To use the My Computer icon Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select My Computer. Right-click the appropriate optical drive icon.
Page 108 Why can't I play a DVD or CD media?  After inserting your CD or DVD, wait a few seconds for the system to detect it before trying to access it.  Confirm that the disc is in the tray with the label side facing up. ...
Page 109 Why isn't my DVD playing properly?  If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player application, it may be that the region code of the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the region code setting of your optical drive. A region code is listed on the disc packaging.
Page 110: About The Mouse And Keyboard
About the Mouse and Keyboard Why doesn't my mouse work properly?  Confirm that the mouse is plugged securely into the mouse port. If you are using a USB mouse, verify that the mouse is plugged securely into the appropriate USB port. ...
Page 111 About the Mouse and Keyboard Why doesn't my mouse work properly?  Confirm that the mouse is plugged securely into the mouse port. If you are using a USB mouse, verify that the mouse is plugged securely into the appropriate USB port. ...
Page 112 How do I set up my mouse for left-hand use? Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Mouse. The Mouse Properties dialog box appears. From the Buttons tab, select Switch primary and secondary buttons under the Button Configuration options. Click Apply, then click OK.
Page 113 Why doesn't my keyboard work properly?  Check that the keyboard is securely plugged into the keyboard port.  Save and close all open applications. Turn off your computer, wait approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer.  If you are using a wireless keyboard: Confirm that the supplied AA batteries are properly installed.
Page 114: About The Modem
About the Modem Why is my modem connection slow? Many factors can influence modem connection speed, such as:  Telephone line noise.  Incompatibility with other telephone equipment such as fax machines or other modems.  Internet Service Providers (ISP) connection capability may vary. If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your ISP, check the following: ...
Page 115 About the Modem Why is my modem connection slow? Many factors can influence modem connection speed, such as:  Telephone line noise.  Incompatibility with other telephone equipment such as fax machines or other modems.  Internet Service Providers (ISP) connection capability may vary. If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax machines, or your ISP, check the following: ...
Page 116 Check that the access telephone number (POP) is correct.  All software programs that are preinstalled by Sony are compatible with your computer's modem. If you have installed other software, contact the software publisher for information on how to configure the software in order to recognize the modem.
Page 117 How do I change my modem to rotary or Touch-tone dialing? Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Phone and Modem options. From the Dialing Rules tab, click Edit. The Edit Location dialog box appears. Select the Tone or Pulse option.
Page 118: About The Speakers
About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any application?  Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack.  If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off.  If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged.
Page 119 About the Speakers Why is there no sound in any application?  Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack.  If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off.  If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged.
Page 120 Why can't I hear sound when using the SP/DIF option for digital output? If your computer has a preinstalled Sound Blaster Audigy ES sound card , the Play Control settings must be changed to support digital sound. Follow these steps to change the settings: From the Windows taskbar notification area, double-click on The Play Control dialog box appears.
Page 121 About Using a Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Page 121...
Page 122 About Using a Microphone Why doesn't my microphone work properly? Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack. Page 122...
Page 123 Why is my microphone so sensitive to background noise? If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound, you should adjust the microphone by following these steps: Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click Sounds and Audio Devices.
Page 124: About Using Peripheral Equipment
About Using Peripheral Equipment How do I install a printer?  Connect your USB or IEEE 1394 printer to the appropriate port on your computer's front, back or side panels . If your printer has a USB, IEEE 1394, or infrared connection, contact the printer manufacturer for information or updates that may be required for proper installation.
Page 125 About Using Peripheral Equipment How do I install a printer?  Connect your USB or IEEE 1394 printer to the appropriate port on your computer's front, back or side panels . If your printer has a USB, IEEE 1394, or infrared connection, contact the printer manufacturer for information or updates that may be required for proper installation.
Page 126 The connected printer does not function properly when the computer resumes from a power saving mode.  Clear the printer memory by turning the printer off for approximately 10 seconds, and then turning it back on.  If your printer does not resume normal operations, try restarting your computer. Page 126...
Page 127: Notes On Use
Notes On Use The information in this section provides basic procedures for handling your system and common peripheral devices, using storage media, and locating upgrade procedures. A support resource listing is also provided to help you locate the appropriate support options. ...
Page 128: About The Power Source
About the Power Source Before opening your computer, turn the system off and let it cool down for 10 minutes. This protects you against internal components that may be too hot to handle.  Your computer operates on 100-120 V AC 50/60 Hz only. ...
Page 129 About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder The information in this section provides guidelines to follow when using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder. Display setup Always set up your display as follows when you use Giga Pocket:  Color quality: Use factory default settings (32-bit). ...
Page 130: About Disposing Of The Lithium Battery
Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium batteries. The lithium battery may explode if mistreated. Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire. Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Using a type of battery other than a CR2032 may present a risk of fire or explosion.
Page 131: About Handling The Computer System
Your computer, keyboard, and mouse consist of high-precision electronic parts. Do not drop them or bump them against other objects.  Your Sony computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX). ...
Page 132: About Handling A Monitor (Display)
About Handling a Monitor (Display)  DVD playback and certain video-related software may not function correctly when your monitor is set to a high refresh rate. If your monitor does not play back video content properly, try setting the display to a lower refresh rate.
Page 133 OpenMG software are not compatible with the new Memory Stick PRO media. ® Sony suggests using only the MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage and OpenMG software.  Currently, the Memory Stick slot on VAIO computers does not support the high-speed data transfer or access ®...
Page 134: Support Options
Support Options Sony provides several options to help solve common problems or to locate support for your VAIO computer. This section ® describes all available resources and offers suggestions on how to access this information for maximum results.  Immediate Help and Support ...
Page 135: Immediate Help And Support
Click Welcome to VAIO Life. Y ou c an loc ate the online H elp for Sony s oftware programs by pointing to the individual applic ation's ic on and s elec ting H elp from the s ubmenu. Page 135...
Page 136: Software Help And Support
Software Help and Support The contact and support information for the preinstalled software on your system is located in this section. Sony software support is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software discussed in this section, depending on the computer purchased.
Page 137 What's more, you can easily give a professional look to your DVDs by adding chapter menus, backgrounds, and menu screens. You're only a few clicks away from your own DVDs! Help and support information for Sony software programs: ®...
Page 138 Member benefits include e-mail, newsgroups, an EarthLink Personal Start PageSM, free storage space for your personal Web site, a member magazine, and 24-hour technical support. Help and support information for EarthLink software program: ® web site http://support.earthlink.net EverQuest ® Page 138 Sony Online Entertainment Inc.
Page 139 M - F, 9 AM - 6 PM PST Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder ® Sony Electronics Inc. Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a unique set of hardware and software components that provide you with excellent ® TV viewing, recording, and playback experiences. You can watch and record your favorite TV programs from your computer, create custom playlists, and play your Video Capsules on other compatible computers.
Page 140 , PowerPoint , and Access software. ® ® For support information, see Click to DVD (Sony Electronics Inc.). Microsoft Office XP Small Business Edition ® Microsoft Corp. Microsoft Office XP Small Business Edition helps you get work done more quickly by providing real-time, context-sensitive options for important actions, from formatting to error correction.
Page 141 Network Smart Capture 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 service.
Page 142 Sony Electronics Inc. PictureGear Studio still image management software displays still images from your hard drive or a Sony digital still camera. The still images appear in a convenient light-table format so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder, create your own photo albums and make prints.
Page 143 (Sony Electronics Inc.). 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. Help and support information for Yahoo! Web site programs: ®...
Page 144 By registering with Sony, you enable Sony to notify you of software and hardware issues that may affect your user experience. Microsoft directs the data to Sony Electronics Inc. Sony uses the registration data for warranty and product support purposes and the analysis of customer feedback on Sony computer features.
Page 145 Sony Electronics Inc. Download music from the web, create your own albums, or have CDs sent straight to your house with VAIO Music Services. The ultimate place on the Web for music lovers to find out information about their favorite artist and get all of the latest music news.
Page 146: Resources For Additional Help And Support
Sony Online Support Web site Online help and support are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, when you visit the Sony Online Support Web site. You can access the Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

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