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Sony VAIO PCG-FR215M User Manual

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Sony Notebook User Guide
P C G - F R S e r i e s

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Summary of Contents for Sony VAIO PCG-FR215M

  • Page 1 Sony Notebook User Guide P C G - F R S e r i e s...

  • Page 2: Read This First

    Macrovision Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user licence agreement.
  • Page 3 Read this first ® NERGY ® ® As an E Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the E guidelines for energy efficiency. NERGY NERGY TAR ® The International E Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use NERGY of computers and their office equipment.

  • Page 4: Safety Information

    Safety information Owner's record The serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number and the model number and refer to them if you call VAIO-Link. Read the printed Specifications document.
  • Page 5 Read this first Audio/video Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation. Connectivity Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations. Be cautious when installing or modifying telephone lines.

  • Page 6: Regulatory Information

    Read this first Regulatory information Sony hereby declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of European Directive 1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive). Declaration of Conformity The European Union is targeting the free movement of goods for the internal market and to prevent technical barriers to trade. This effort has resulted in several EU Directives asking that manufacturers make their products comply with essential standards.
  • Page 7 Read this first Disposing of lithium ion batteries Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life. Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Page 8 Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power. Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.

  • Page 9: Documentation Pack

    VAIO-Link information and an explanation of the purpose and use of the VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc. A Dual Language Operating System leaflet*; Your Sony Guarantee conditions; A Safety Regulations leaflet; A Modem Regulations leaflet. * Depending on your country. Dual Language Operating Systems are available in Belgium, the Netherlands and Switzerland.
  • Page 10 Precautions provides facts and advice about using your notebook. Glossary refers to terms used in this manual. Refer to your Software Guide for information on the software and the Sony applications. About the Software delivered with your computer is a short description of the features of the software delivered with your system.
  • Page 11 Welcome Installing and updating applications explains how to install, run or uninstall a software application. Managing drivers explains how to install, update or uninstall a driver. In the VAIO-Link Customer Service Guide you will find all the VAIO-Link information you need, including specific contact numbers for each country.
  • Page 12 Welcome Your notebook and its accessories The following hardware items are in the box: Main unit Phone cable VAIO Recovery and Documentation Disc* Power cord AC adapter Phone plug** Rechargeable battery pack Documentation pack If you find an extra phone plug in the box, see Using the correct phone plug (page 56).

  • Page 13: Ergonomic Considerations

    Welcome Ergonomic considerations You will be using your notebook as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments: Positioning your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse.
  • Page 14 Welcome Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.

  • Page 15: Table Of Contents

    Locating controls and connectors (page 15) Connecting a power source (page 20) Starting your notebook (page 24) Setting up your notebook with Sony Notebook Setup (page 25) Changing the video memory size (page 27) Shutting down your notebook (page 28)

  • Page 16: Locating Controls And Connectors

    Using your notebook Locating controls and connectors Right Power button (page 24) DC In connector (page 20) CD-RW/DVD-ROM or DVD-RW drive* (page 35) Battery bay (page 21) * Depending on your model. Read the printed Specifications document for more information.

  • Page 17: Ventilation Slot

    Using your notebook Left 2 USB 2.0 ports (High- (page 72) speed/Full-speed/Low- speed)* AV out jack (for TV and (page 63) line out) Microphone connector (page 71) Headphone connector (page 70) i.LINK™ connector (page 75) Ventilation slot (page 16) PC Card slots (page 41) Memory Stick slot (page 44)
  • Page 18 Using your notebook Front Power indicator (page 32) Battery indicator (page 32) Hard disk drive indicator (page 32) Num Lock indicator (page 32) Caps Lock indicator (page 32) Scroll Lock indicator (page 32) LCD screen (page 33) Speakers (page 33) Model name Memory Stick indicator (page 32)
  • Page 19 Using your notebook Back Ethernet connector (page 77) Modem connector (page 55) Monitor/VGA connector (page 61) Printer connector (page 73) Ventilation slot (page 16) 1 USB 2.0 port (page 72) (High-speed/Full-speed/Low-speed)
  • Page 20 Using your notebook Bottom Reset button Memory module cover (page 96) Modem module cover (page 55)

  • Page 21: Connecting A Power Source

    Using your notebook Connecting a power source You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source. Using the AC adapter To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows: Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer. Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter.

  • Page 22: Battery Bay

    Using your notebook Using the battery pack You can use one battery as a source of power. The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase. Inserting the battery pack To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows: Open the cover of the battery bay.
  • Page 23 Using your notebook Charging the battery pack To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows: Connect the AC adapter to the computer. Insert the battery pack. The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges).

  • Page 24: Removing The Battery Pack

    Using your notebook The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery does not affect battery life. The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When the battery life is nearly depleted, both the battery and power indicators start flashing.

  • Page 25: Starting Your Notebook

    Using your notebook Starting your notebook To start your computer, proceed as follows: Slide the LCD lock lever (1) in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover. Press the power button (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on. If necessary, adjust the brightness on the LCD display.

  • Page 26: Setting Up Your Notebook With Sony Notebook Setup

    Using your notebook Setting up your notebook with Sony Notebook Setup The Sony Notebook Setup utility allows you to consult system information, specify preferences for system behaviour, and set up password protection for your VAIO notebook. To use Sony Notebook Setup, proceed as follows: ®...
  • Page 27 The item has been changed. For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the help file. If you open Sony Notebook Setup as a limited user, then only the About This Computer tab will be visible.

  • Page 28: Changing The Video Memory Size

    Turn on you computer. Make sure that no peripheral devices (apart from the AC adapter) are connected. When the Sony logo appears, press the <F2> key. The BIOS setup window appears. Choose the Advanced tab by using the right arrow key.

  • Page 29: Shutting Down Your Notebook

    Using your notebook Shutting down your notebook It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data. To shut down your computer, proceed as follows: ® Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar.

  • Page 30: Using The Keyboard

    Using your notebook Using the keyboard Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but has additional keys that perform specific notebook-related tasks.
  • Page 31 Using your notebook Keys Descriptions Escape key (1) The <Esc> (Escape) key is used to cancel commands. Function keys (2) The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, <F1> is the Help key. The tasks associated with each function key may vary from one application to the other.
  • Page 32 Using your notebook ® Combinations and functions with the Windows Combinations Functions ® + <F1> Displays the Windows Help and Support Center. + <Tab> Switches the selected button on the taskbar. Displays the desktop. + <D> + <E> Displays My Computer. + <F>...
  • Page 33 Using your notebook Indicators Indicator Functions Power on: lights green. Power Standby mode: flashes umber. Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the Battery battery bay on the left side of the computer. Memory Stick™ Turns on when the Memory Stick™ is in use. Turns off when the Memory Stick™...

  • Page 34: Speakers

    Using your notebook Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key Combinations/ Feature Functions Toggles the built-in speaker on and off. <Fn> + (F3): speaker switch Adjusts the built-in speaker volume. <Fn> + (F4): speaker volume To increase volume, press <Fn>+<F4> and then To decrease volume, press <Fn>+<F4>...

  • Page 35: Using The Touchpad

    Using your notebook Using the touchpad The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touchpad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in touchpad. Action Description Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.

  • Page 36: Using The Disc Drive

    Using your notebook Using the disc drive Your computer is equipped with either a DVD-RW drive or a CD-RW/DVD-ROM combined drive. Check the printed Specifications sheet for details on your model. See the glossary at the end of this guide for more information on CD-RW and DVD-RW. To insert a disc, proceed as follows: Turn on the computer.
  • Page 37 Using your notebook Close the tray by pushing it gently. When the computer is in Standby or Hibernate mode, you cannot insert or remove a disc. Be sure to seat the disc firmly over the disc drive hub fingers. If you do not seat the disc firmly, you could damage your disc drive and you may not be able to open the tray.
  • Page 38 Using your notebook Using the disc recording function* Your notebook is equipped with a CD-RW/DVD-ROM or a DVD-RW drive. To burn CDs, you can use DVD/CD-RW and/or DVD/CD-Rs**: The -RW (-ReWriteable) disc is a data memory medium that can be used to write, erase and rewrite a program or other data.
  • Page 39 Using your notebook Using the DVD function To achieve optimum performance when playing DVD-ROM discs, you should follow these recommendations. You can play DVDs using the DVD-ROM or DVD-RW* drive and the WinDVD for VAIO software. See the help file on the WinDVD for VAIO software for details. Close all open applications before playing a DVD-ROM movie.

  • Page 40: Using The Floppy Disk Drive

    Using your notebook Using the floppy disk drive Your computer is equipped with a floppy disk drive. Inserting a floppy disk To insert a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Hold the disk (1) with the label side facing up. Gently push the disk into the floppy disk drive (2) until it clicks into place.
  • Page 41 Using your notebook Removing a floppy disk To remove a floppy disk, proceed as follows: Wait until the LED indicator (1) turns off. Press the eject button (2) to remove the floppy disk. Do not press the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on. Otherwise, data may be lost.

  • Page 42: Using Pc Cards

    Using your notebook Using PC Cards This computer has a PC Card slot that supports Type I, II and III PC Cards. PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices. You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC Card. Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card, proceed as follows: Insert the PC Card into one of the PC Card slots with the label facing upwards.
  • Page 43 Using your notebook Some PC Cards may require you to disable idle devices when using the PC Card. Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer. If an “!” mark appears in the Device Manager dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it. You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.

  • Page 44: Removing A Pc Card

    Using your notebook Removing a PC Card Follow the steps below to remove the PC card while your computer is on. If it is not removed correctly, your system may not work properly. If you want to remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7. To remove a PC Card, proceed as follows: Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar.

  • Page 45: Using Memory Stick

    There are currently three different types of Memory Stick™ supported by your VAIO: The generic Memory Stick™, coloured blue. The MagicGate Memory Stick™, coloured white. The Memory Stick PRO™. You can purchase Memory Sticks™ from the Sony Style website (http://www.sonystyle-europe.com), or from your local Sony dealer.
  • Page 46 Using your notebook Why Memory Stick™? Sony's vision is to expand the world of communication, promoting the portability of digital data. The Memory Stick™ is the resulting medium, through which digital devices can be instantly connected. With it, you can download data from any compatible device, then transfer it to another in a single and instant transfer.
  • Page 47 Using your notebook Generic Memory Stick™ The original Memory Stick™, blue in colour, can be used to record image data taken with digital still cameras, etc. or data from the PC. With it, you can record, play back and transfer various kinds of data at any given time.
  • Page 48 Using your notebook MagicGate Memory Stick™ The MagicGate Memory Stick™, white in colour, records PC and image data just like its blue counterpart; the difference is it uses the MagicGate copyright protection technology. With this type of Memory Stick™, also called the MG Memory Stick™, you can enjoy the following features: 32, 64 and 128 MB capacity versions.
  • Page 49 MagicGate is a copyright protection technology that complies with the standards set by SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative, an organization working to draw up industry standard specifications in order to protect copyrights of digital music). logo indicates the copyright protection system devised by Sony. It is not meant to guarantee compatibility with other media. MagicGate MagicGate refers to the copyright protection technology used by the MagicGate Memory Stick™...
  • Page 50 (SDMI) to study technology for protecting copyrights during the electronic distribution of music. Sony offers the MagicGate Memory Stick™ and Memory Stick™ Walkman with a copyright protection function that complies with SDMI standards, thereby providing an environment where individuals can record and enjoy third-party music data without worrying about copyright infringement.
  • Page 51 Using your notebook Other: VAIO notebooks VAIO desktops CLIE Handheld Entertainment Organiser Sony mobile phones Digital printers AIBO the Sony Entertainment Robot To find out more about the products available in your country, go to: http://www.sonystyle-europe.com...
  • Page 52 MB per CD, or 360 JPEG images in 5.0 Megapixel quality, more than ten rolls of 24/36 film. Compatible devices You can currently use the Memory Stick PRO™ with the following Sony products: Visual: Cyber-shot DSC-F717, -F77 and FX77 digital camera...
  • Page 53 Using your notebook Write-protecting a Memory Stick™ Memory Sticks™ are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting. Move the tab to the right or left* to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can be saved on the Memory Stick™.

  • Page 54: Inserting A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Inserting a Memory Stick™ There are 2 ways you can insert a Memory Stick™ in your notebook: Using the Memory Stick™ slot; Using one of the PC Card slots. To do this, you need an optional PC Card adapter. You can only insert one Memory Stick™...

  • Page 55: Removing A Memory Stick

    Using your notebook Removing a Memory Stick™ To remove a Memory Stick™ using the Memory Stick™ slot, proceed as follows: Check that the access light is off. Push the Memory Stick™ in towards the notebook. The Memory Stick™ ejects. Pull the Memory Stick™ out of the slot. Always remove the Memory Stick™...

  • Page 56: Using The Modem

    Using your notebook Using the modem Your notebook is equipped with an internal modem. You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and the Internet, to register your computer and software online, and to contact VAIO-Link. To connect a phone line, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the phone line jack on the computer and plug the other end into the wall jack (2).

  • Page 57: Using The Correct Phone Plug

    Using your notebook Using the correct phone plug If there are two phone plugs in the box, make sure you use the correct one for the country you are in, as follows: UK: The connector can be identified by its cuboid shape and flat pins.

  • Page 58: Using Power Saving Modes

    Using your notebook Using power saving modes When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, 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 computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate.

  • Page 59: Using Hibernate Mode

    Using your notebook Using Hibernate mode The state of the system is saved on the hard disk and power is turned off. The power indicator light is off in this mode. To activate Hibernate mode, proceed as follows: Go to Start and click Turn Off Computer. Hold down the <Shift>...

  • Page 60: Connecting Peripheral Devices

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting peripheral devices You can add functionality to your computer by connecting or using any of these peripherals. Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals. Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables. Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.

  • Page 61: Connecting An External Display

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external display You can connect an external display to your notebook. For example, you can use your computer with the following devices: Computer display (monitor); Multimedia computer display; Projector. Turn off your computer and the peripherals, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the external display. Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.

  • Page 62: Monitor/Vga Connector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a computer display To connect a computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) in the monitor (VGA) connector (2) on the computer. If necessary, plug one end of the display’s power cord (3) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
  • Page 63 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a multimedia computer display You can connect the notebook to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone. To connect a multimedia computer display, proceed as follows: Plug the display cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) on the computer.

  • Page 64: Connecting A Tv

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a TV To connect a TV, proceed as follows: Plug one end of the audio/ video cable (1) (optional) into the AV out jack (for TV (NTSC/PAL) and line out) (2) and the other end into the TV. Plug the power cord of the TV (3) into an AC outlet.
  • Page 65 Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a projector You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD Projector. To connect a projector, proceed as follows: Plug the RGB signal cable (1) into the monitor connector (2) identified by the symbol.
  • Page 66 Connecting peripheral devices Under certain circumstances, you may not be able to display the notebook LCD screen and an external display or a projector at the same time. You can toggle the output between the notebook LCD screen and the external monitor by pressing the <Fn>+<F7> key combination.

  • Page 67: Selecting Display Modes

    Connecting peripheral devices Selecting display modes This notebook uses the ATI RADEON™ IGP 345M Chipset. You can select which display is used when the computer is connected to an external display. To select a display, proceed as follows: Click the Start button, and then Control Panel. The Control Panel appears.

  • Page 68: Using The Dual Display Function

    Connecting peripheral devices Using the Dual Display function The dual display function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you have an external monitor attached to the monitor connector, your LCD display and the monitor can function as a single desktop.
  • Page 69 Connecting peripheral devices Selecting the Dual Display mode To select the Dual Display mode, proceed as follows: ® Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar. Click Control Panel. Click Appearance and Themes. Click the Display icon. Select the Settings tab. Click the display marked 2.
  • Page 70 Connecting peripheral devices Customizing the virtual desktop You can customize the Dual Display mode by changing the position of the two monitors comprising the virtual desktop. To customize Dual Display mode, proceed as follows: ® Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar.

  • Page 71: Headphone Connector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting external speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers. To connect external speakers, proceed as follows: Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphone connector (2). Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the external speaker. Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.

  • Page 72: Connecting An External Microphone

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an external microphone Your VAIO notebook does not contain an internal microphone. If you need to use a sound input device, for example to chat on the Internet, you need to plug in an external microphone. To connect an external microphone, proceed as follows: Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone connector (2) identified by the symbol.

  • Page 73: Usb 2.0 Port

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) mouse You can connect a USB device (e.g. mouse, floppy disk drive, keyboard, printer, …) to your computer. Before connecting or disconnecting a USB peripheral, you do not need to shut down the computer. You may need to install software (device drivers) supplied with your USB device before using the USB device.

  • Page 74: Connecting A Printer

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting a printer ® You can connect a Windows -compatible printer to your computer to print documents. Connecting a printer using the USB connector ® You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to your computer.

  • Page 75: Printer Connector

    Plug the printer power cord (3) into an AC outlet. Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer settings in the Sony Notebook Setup software. This does not apply for USB printers. Turn off your computer and the printer, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the printer.

  • Page 76: I.link™ Connector

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting an i.LINK™ device Your computer includes an i.LINK™ (IEEE1394) connector, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK™ device such as a digital video camera recorder or to connect two VAIO notebooks in order to copy, delete or edit files.

  • Page 77: Connecting A Digital Video Camera Recorder

    (3) on the digital video camera recorder. Launch the DVgate application. On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labelled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK™ are i.LINK™-compatible. The Sony digital video camera recorder is an example; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently.

  • Page 78: Connecting To A Network (Lan)

    Connecting peripheral devices Connecting to a network (LAN) You can connect your computer to 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX-type networks via an Ethernet network cable. For the detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, consult your Network Administrator. The default settings make your computer able to connect to the network. For more information about connecting your notebook to the network, please consult the Hardware troubleshooting section of the VAIO-Link website: How to troubleshoot network problems Do not plug a phone cable into your computer network jack.

  • Page 79: Getting Help

    Getting help Getting help This section describes how to get help and support from Sony, as well as troubleshooting tips for your computer. Sony support options Sony provides several support options for your computer. Please see the section Documentation pack...
  • Page 80 Getting help e-Support What is e-Support? You have searched our user guides and website (www.vaio-link.com) but have not found an answer to your question/issue? e-Support is the ideal solution for you! Our e-Support Web Portal is an interactive website on which you can submit any technical query you may have regarding your VAIO and receive answers from our dedicated support team.
  • Page 81 Getting help Can I submit questions in my native language? Since you are interacting with our e-Support Team through a portal, which connects you directly to our central database, e-Support will only accept and deal with queries submitted in English. Can I submit my questions at any time? Yes, you can submit your questions 24/7, but please keep in mind that our e-Support Team can only treat your queries from Monday till Friday between 8am and 6pm.

  • Page 82: Troubleshooting

    Getting help Troubleshooting This section describes how to solve common problems you might encounter when using your notebook. Many problems have simple solutions. Please try these suggestions before contacting VAIO-Link. About the computer and software (page 82) About the display (page 86) About discs and floppy disks (page 87)

  • Page 83: About The Computer And Software

    Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer indicates that the power is on. Check that you are using the supplied Sony AC adapter. Check cables for signs of wear and tear (which can occur if the cable is twisted around the AC adapter during transport).
  • Page 84 If the floppy disk drive is empty, proceed as follows to initialise the BIOS: Turn off the computer. Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer. Turn on the computer and press <F2> when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Set the date (month/day/year).
  • Page 85 Getting help My computer does not shut down It is recommended that you shut down your computer using the Turn Off Computer command on the ® Windows Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed here, may result in loss of unsaved data. If the Turn Off command does not work properly, proceed as follows: Turn off the computer by pressing <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete>.
  • Page 86 Getting help If the above method does not work, press the power button and hold it for at least four seconds. This turns off the power, risking the loss of unsaved data. Then unplug the notebook from the mains. If your computer locks up while playing a disc, stop the disc by pressing the eject button on the disc drive, then restart your computer.

  • Page 87: About The Display

    Getting help About the display My screen does not display anything Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the computer is on. Check that the battery pack(s) are inserted properly and that they are charged. If using AC power, check that the connection to the mains is secure.

  • Page 88: About Discs And Floppy Disks

    Getting help About discs and floppy disks My disc drive tray does not open Make sure the computer is turned on and press the eject button on the drive. Click Start, and select My Computer. Right-click the optical disc drive and select Eject. If this does not work, try the following: When the computer is OFF, open the tray by inserting a sharp, pointed object (for example a paperclip) into the hole next to the eject button.
  • Page 89 Getting help I cannot play a DVD If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the DVD drive on your notebook. The region code is listed on the packaging of the disc.
  • Page 90 Getting help My floppy disk drive cannot write to a disk The disk may be write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or use a floppy disk that is not write- protected. Check that the disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive. Your floppy disk may be corrupt.

  • Page 91: About Sound

    Getting help About sound My speakers are not producing sound The built-in speakers may be turned off. Press <Fn>+<F3> to turn on the speakers. The speaker volume may be turned to the minimum. Press <Fn>+<F4> and then to increase the volume.

  • Page 92: About The Modem

    Getting help About the modem My internal modem does not work or cannot establish a connection Check that the phone line is plugged into your computer. Make sure that the modem is the only device connected to your phone line. Check that the phone line is working.

  • Page 93: About Peripherals

    Use the manual import/export in DVgate Motion if the problems occur with third party cameras. You are strongly advised to use only Sony i.LINK™ cables, as using other brands may cause problems with the i.LINK™ devices.
  • Page 94 The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode, as follows: Restart your computer. When you see the Sony logo, press <F2>. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Use the keyboard’s arrow keys to select the Advanced menu.

  • Page 95: About Digital Video Captures And Dvgate

    Getting help About digital video captures and DVgate While I am recording images to a digital video device using DVgate, my system displays the message Recording to DV device failed. Check the power and cable connections to the DV device and try the operation again...
  • Page 96 Precautions Precautions This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help you protect your computer from potential damage. Your notebook and memory modules use high precision components and electronic connectors technology. To avoid the invalidation of your guarantee by mishandling, it is recommended that: You contact your dealer to install a new memory module.
  • Page 97 Precautions Changing or adding memory In the future you may want to change or add memory modules in order to expand the functionality of your computer. You can increase the memory by installing optional memory modules. Be careful when changing memory. Mistakes on installation or removal of the memory module may cause a malfunction.

  • Page 98: Removing And Installing A Memory Module

    Precautions Do not place the memory module in places subject to: - Heat sources such as radiators or air ducts, - Direct sunlight, - Excessive dust, - Mechanical vibration or shock, - Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, - Ambient temperature of more than +35°C or less than +5°C, - High humidity.
  • Page 99 Precautions To remove the memory module, pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows numbered 1. The memory module is released. Pull the memory module out in the direction of arrow 2. To replace or add memory, remove the new memory module from its packaging.

  • Page 100: Other Precautions

    Precautions Other precautions On handling the hard disk (page 100) On handling the LCD screen (page 100) On using power source (page 101) On handling your notebook (page 101) On handling floppy disks (page 103) On handling discs (page 103) On using the battery pack (page 103) On using headphones...

  • Page 101: On Handling The Hard Disk

    Precautions On handling the hard disk The hard disk has a high storage density and reads or writes data in a short time. On the other hand, it may be easily damaged by mechanical vibration, shock or dust. Although the hard disk has the safety device in itself to prevent losing data due to mechanical vibration, shock or dust, you should be careful when handling your computer.

  • Page 102: On Using Power Source

    Precautions The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/ or bright points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction. Avoid rubbing the LCD screen, as this can damage the screen.
  • Page 103 Precautions Do not place your computer in a location subject to: Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts, Direct sunlight, Excessive dust, Moisture or rain, Mechanical vibration or shock, Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded, Ambient temperature of more than 35ºC or less than 10ºC, High humidity.

  • Page 104: On Handling Floppy Disks

    Precautions On handling floppy disks Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk. Keep floppy disks away from magnets. Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. On handling discs Do not touch the surface of the disc. Do not drop or bend the disc.

  • Page 105: On Using Headphones

    Precautions Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat. Keep the battery pack dry. Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack. Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock. If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery.

  • Page 106: On Handling The Memory Stick™ (Optional Accessory)

    Precautions On handling the Memory Stick™ (optional accessory) Do not touch the connector with your finger or metallic objects. Use only the label supplied with the Memory Stick™ as a label. Do not bend, drop, or apply strong shock to the Memory Stick™. Do not disassemble or modify Memory Sticks™.
  • Page 107 Glossary Glossary This section refers to terms used in this manual and elsewhere in the VAIO world. These terms and definitions have been compiled to provide you with a better understanding of your VAIO computer. Term Definition <F1> key The <F1> key gives you access to the online help of most software. 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Ethernet system providing data transfer rates of 10 Mbps (megabits per second) and 100 Mbps.
  • Page 108 DVD+RW The DVD+RW is a slightly different rewritable DVD format, backed by a group of companies known as the DVD+RW Consortium, which includes Sony. Its advantages include high- compatibility, high capacity and easy-to-use functionality. Like the DVD-RW, it can be rewritten about 1,000 times.
  • Page 109 VAIO desktop. i.LINK™ i.LINK™ is Sony’s version of the IEEE 1394 standard for high-speed digital serial interface. The standard is regarded in the audio/video and IT industries as the most suitable interface for connecting computers and digital audio/video devices (such as digital cameras etc.).
  • Page 110 Glossary Term Definition Lithium-ion battery A lithium-ion battery uses lithium cobalt oxide and carbon as electrodes and ions move from one electrode to the other during charge and discharge. Lithium-ion batteries are the first choice for notebooks because of their light weight, high energy density and because they have no memory effect.
  • Page 111 Glossary Term Definition A PBX (Private Branch Exchange) is a private telephone network within an enterprise. Under this system, the calls between the enterprise members are local and the phone numbers are made up of 3 or 4 digits. Companies generally choose this phone system for internal communication because it is less expensive than the regular network.
  • Page 112 Glossary Term Definition Short for Random Access Memory, the memory used to run programs and store data in current use. RAM is the fastest kind of memory to read from and write to. Information stored in RAM is lost when you turn off the computer. The higher the RAM capacity, the faster your current data can be processed.
  • Page 113 USB standard is Hot Plug and Play. VAIO Short for Video Audio Integrated Operation. Brand name covering Sony's PC products, peripherals, accessories and software. VAIO-branded items are all designed to make the best use of Sony's Audio-Video (AV) and Information Technology (IT) skills.
  • Page 114 Sony, BlueSpace NE, DVgate, Giga Pocket, HotKey Utility, Memory Stick Formatter, PicoPlayer, PictureGear Studio, Network Smart Capture, SonicStage, Sony Notebook Setup, Sony Style Imaging, UI Design Selector, VAIO Action Setup, VAIO Edit Components, VAIO Media, VAIO System Information, VAIO Web Phone, Memory Stick, the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

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