Page 1: Table Of Contents
Welcome...7 Using Your VAIO Notebook...9 Using the Keyboard...10 Functions of the keyboard keys ...11 Combinations and functions with the Windows key ...12 Indicators ...13 Indicator lights ...14 Combinations and functions with the Fn key ...15 Using the Touchpad ...17 Using the Floppy Disk Drive ...19 To insert a floppy disk ...19 To remove a floppy disk ...20 To remove the floppy disk drive...20...
Page 2 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Using the Weight Saver ... 37 To attach the weight saver ... 37 To remove the weight saver ... 38 Using Power Saving Modes... 39 Normal mode... 39 Standby mode... 39 Hibernate mode ...
Page 3 Wireless LAN Access Point ...65 Wireless LAN PC Card...66 Customizing Your VAIO Notebook ...67 Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ...68 To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen ...68 Sony Notebook Setup Tabs...69 Controlling Power Management ...70 To view the Power Management status icons...70 Power Management profiles ...71...
Page 4 77 Selecting the Display Mode ... 78 To select the display mode... 78 To change the Window Design of Sony software... 79 Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook 81 Precautions and Procedures ... 82 Typical expansion memory configuration ... 82 Removing a Memory Module...
Page 5 Troubleshooting ...105 Troubleshooting Your Notebook ...106 My notebook does not start...106 My notebook starts, but a BIOS error is displayed...106 My notebook starts, but the message “Operating system not found” appears and Windows does not start...107 My notebook stops responding or does not shut down...108 The Power Management setting is not responding.
Page 6 I cannot print..120 Troubleshooting i.LINK devices ... 121 I cannot establish a connection between two VAIO comput- ers when using an i.LINK cable... 121 Getting Help...123 Support Options ... 124 Software Support Information ... 126 Sony Service Center... 128 Index...129...
Page 7: Welcome
Welcome Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the VAIO Notebook User Guide. This User Guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software applications.
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 Using the Floppy Disk Drive Using the Optical Disc Drive Using PC Cards Using a Second Battery Pack Using the Weight Saver 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 a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks. Keyboard Escape key Shift Ctrl key Fn key Windows® key Function keys Applications key Alt key...
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: Combinations And Functions With The Windows Key
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 taskbar. See “Combinations and functions with the Windows key”...
Page 13: Indicators
Combination Function Shift + Returns all minimized windows to their previous size. Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of selecting Run from the Start menu. Fn + + Insert Displays the System Properties window. This is the equivalent of selecting Control Panel and then System from the Start menu.
Page 14: Indicator Lights
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Indicator lights Light The number keys in the numeric Lock keypad are active. Caps The letters appear in uppercase as you Lock type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is on. Scroll The screen scrolls differently.
Page 15: Combinations And Functions With The Fn Key
Combinations and functions with the Fn key If you switch user identities 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. Combinations/ Feature Function...
Page 16 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Combinations/ Feature Function only/ Toggles between LCD-only and dual LCD/TV display (F8) modes. Control TV Out Connect the cable before you turn on the notebook, otherwise Fn + F8 will not work. (F12) Provides for the lowest level of power consumption.
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 Action Description 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. Action Description Right-click Press the right button once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive choices. Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button. Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touchpad to scroll vertically.
Page 19: Using The Floppy Disk Drive
Using the Floppy Disk Drive Your notebook is supplied with the floppy disk drive in the multipurpose bay. To insert a floppy disk Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up. Gently push the floppy disk into the drive until it clicks into place. Inserting a floppy disk Floppy disk drive Using the Floppy Disk Drive...
Page 20: To Remove A Floppy Disk
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 a floppy disk Do not push the eject button when the LED indicator is turned on.
Page 21: To Reinsert The Floppy Disk Drive
Slide the lever in the direction of the arrow. Multipurpose bay release lever Slide the floppy disk drive out of the multipurpose bay. Insert the weight saver. See “Using the Weight Saver” for more information. To reinsert the floppy disk drive Turn off the notebook.
Page 22 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Continue pushing the drive into the bay until the release lever locks into place. Inserting the floppy disk drive Multipurpose bay Floppy disk drive...
Page 23: Using The Optical Disc Drive
Using the Optical Disc Drive Your notebook comes with an optical disc drive, either a CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive or DVD-ROM drive, depending on the model you purchased. Do not use adhesive labels to identify your discs. Adhesive labels may come off while the disc is in use in the optical drive, and may cause damage to the drive.
Page 24: To Remove A Disc
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks securely into place. Be sure to 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 25: To Play A Dvd
If the disc does not come out when you press the Eject button, turn off the notebook and insert a thin, straight object (such as a paper clip) into the manual eject hole. Manually removing a disc To play a DVD To play a DVD, you may use the optical disc drive and the preinstalled WinDVD®...
Page 26: To Play An Audio Cd
Change text in this variable definition to document title. to the proper dimensions. Also see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information. If the notebook is set to the default display setting, part of the video screen will not appear. To view the entire screen, adjust the display resolution to 640 x 480.
Page 27: Notes On Cd And Dvd Media
When playing DVD movies on battery power, set the power management profile to DVD. With other profiles, the movies are choppy. As an alternative, you can set the power management profile to Automatic Profile Selection, which will cause the DVD profile to be selected automatically whenever you insert a DVD.
Page 28: To Write Data To A Cd-Rw Or Cd-R Disc
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To write data to a CD-RW or CD-R 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 29: Using Pc Cards
Using PC Cards Your notebook includes two PC Card slots. PC Cards enable you to connect portable external devices such as another hard disk drive, or to connect to a network. The PC Card slots can accommodate two Type I/II PC Cards, or one Type III PC Card.
Page 30 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Press the Release button a second time. The PC Card slot protector pops out. When you use a Type III PC Card, you need to remove both the top and bottom PC Card slot protectors.
Page 31: To Remove A Pc Card
Push the PC Card slot gently into the port. Your system automatically detects the PC Card. The Inserting a PC Card Insert with the arrow facing toward the slot Do not force a PC Card into the slot as this may damage the connector pins. Touching the head of the PC Card will not cause damage to the connector pins, but damage can occur if the head of the PC Card is sticking out of the notebook while the unit is being transported.
Page 32: Notes On Pc Cards
Reboot your system to correct the problem. Some PC Cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information.
Page 33: Using A Second Battery Pack
Using a Second Battery Pack You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time that you use your notebook with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first charges first. The second battery pack you insert charges when the first battery pack is 85 percent full.
Page 34: To Charge The Second Battery Pack
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Slide the lever toward the front of the notebook to lock the weight saver. See also “Using the Weight Saver” for more information. Using weight saver for second battery cover To charge the second battery pack Keep the battery pack in the notebook while it is connected to AC power.
Page 35: To Remove The Second Battery Pack
When the battery is 85 percent full, the battery indicator turns off. To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an additional hour. See “Displaying Battery Information” for more information. Charging the second battery To determine the amount of time the battery lasts, see “Displaying Battery Information”...
Page 36 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Slide the lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the release lever on the bottom of the notebook in the direction of arrow 2. Multipurpose bay release levers Remove the weight saver, and then pull out the battery pack. Reinsert the weight saver.
Page 37: Using The Weight Saver
Using the Weight Saver The weight saver protects the multipurpose bay when it is empty. To attach the weight saver If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove the device. See “To remove the second battery pack” for more information. Fold out the hinged arm of the weight saver and then push on the hinged arm to lock it into place.
Page 38: To Remove The Weight Saver
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To remove the weight saver Locate the release lever on the bottom of the weight saver. Slide this lever in the direction of arrow 1, then slide the release lever on the bottom of the notebook in the direction of arrow 2.
Page 39: 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 40: Notes On Power Saving Modes
Change text in this variable definition to document title. To activate Hibernate mode To activate Hibernate mode, press the key combination Fn+F12, or press the power button and release it immediately. The “Save to Disk Manager” screen appears and the notebook enters Hibernate mode. Do not move the notebook until its power indicator turns off.
Page 41: Connecting A Phone Line
You need to connect a phone cable (supplied with selected models) 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 to a phone line.
Page 42: 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, ask your network administrator. Connecting to LAN Warning: Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the port.
Page 43 Connecting to a LAN Follow the step-by-step instructions that appear on the screen.
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Page 45: Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting Peripheral Devices You can add functionality to your notebook by connecting a variety of peripherals, as discussed in the following sections: Connecting a Port Replicator Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard Connecting a Parallel Port Printer Connecting a USB Printer Connecting an External Display Connecting a TV Display Connecting a USB Device...
Page 46: Connecting A Port Replicator
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a Port Replicator Your notebook supports the use of an optional port replicator (such as the Sony PCGA-PRFX1 model). Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your notebook.
Page 47 Turn off your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices. On the bottom of the notebook, slide the port replicator connector cover open. Port replicator connector Port replicator connector Attach the bottom of the notebook to the port replicator connector until it clicks.
Page 48 Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet. The power indicator turns green. Connecting AC adapter to port replicator Use the AC adapter that comes with your notebook, or an optional Sony adapter. Power indicator Power Port replicator connector Turn on the notebook.
Page 49: To Remove Your Notebook From The Port Replicator
To remove your notebook from the port replicator Turn off your notebook and the connected peripherals. Pull the levers on each side of the port replicator to disengage the notebook from the port replicator. Disengaging notebook from port replicator Lift the notebook away from the port replicator. Lifting notebook Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 50: Connecting An External Mouse Or Keyboard
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard You can connect an external mouse or keyboard to the optional port replicator using a similar type PS/2® plug or adapter. You can only connect one external device at a time.
Page 51: Connecting A Parallel Port Printer
Printer port Printer Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook Setup software. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information. If your printer stops functioning after resuming from a power-saving mode, see “Troubleshooting the Printer”...
Page 52: Connecting A Usb Printer
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a USB Printer You can connect a Windows® compatible Universal Serial Bus (USB) printer to either of your notebook’s two USB ports to print documents. To use a printer, first install the driver software supplied with your printer. To connect a USB printer Plug the optional USB printer cable into one of the two USB ports on your notebook and the USB port on your printer.
Page 53: Connecting An External Display
Connecting an External Display You can connect external display devices such as a computer display (monitor), multimedia computer display, and projector to your notebook. 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. To connect a computer display Locate the Monitor jack identified by the notebook.
Page 54: To Connect A Projector
To connect a projector You can use a projector, such as the Sony LCD Projector, as an external display. See the manual that came with your projector for more information on its installation and use.
Page 55: To Select A Display
To select a display When you connect an external display to the monitor jack, you can toggle the output between the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), the external monitor, or both devices. Use the Fn+F7 keys to select a display. See also “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.
Page 56: Connecting A Tv Display
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting a TV Display You can enjoy playing audio/video by connecting optional AV devices to your notebook. See also the manuals supplied with your AV devices for more information on their installation and use. To connect a TV Connect the notebook to a TV using audio/video cables.
Page 57: Notes On Tv Display
Click Start, select Control Panel, and then click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Click on the Settings tab, and click the Advanced button. The Sony Notebook LCD... dialog box appears. Click on the Intel® Graphics Technology tab.
Page 58: Connecting A Usb Device
Connecting USB device to USB port You can use an optional Sony USB mouse such as the PCGA-UMS1 series (not supplied) 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.
Page 59: Connecting An I.link Device
VAIO® Direct Web site (http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio), or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free). * 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 60: To Connect A Digital Video Camera Recorder
To DV In/Out Notes on i.LINK devices The above figure displays a connection to a Sony digital video camera recorder; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently. Only Sony digital video camera ports labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are compatible i.LINK devices.
Page 61 6-pin connector at the other), and VMC-IL4408A (a 0.8-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end). You can purchase these cables from your local retailer, through the Sony VAIO® Direct Web site (http://www.sonydirect.com), or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).
Page 62: Connecting Vaio Computers
Smart Connect software may be necessary. Consult the Sony Web site for support options (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport). * 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 63: Connecting External Speakers
Connecting External Speakers You can enhance the sound quality of your notebook by connecting external speakers. See the manual that accompanied your speakers for more information on their installation and use. Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; the speakers’ magnetic field may damage the data on the floppy disks.
Page 64: Connecting An External Microphone
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Connecting an External Microphone You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone. See the manual that accompanied your microphone for more information on its installation and use. Verify that your microphone is designed for computer use.
Page 65: Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities
Expanding Your Notebook Capabilities A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), Wireless LAN Access Point, and Wireless LAN PC Card peripheral device can be connected to your notebook, to expand the capabilities of your computer and enhance its versatility to meet your various business or personal needs.
Page 66: Wireless Lan Pc Card
Point. With the Access Point, you can build a wireless LAN between computers that are equipped with the Wireless LAN PC Card and gain access to the Internet. Without the Access Point, you can achieve direct communication (Peer to Peer mode) between computers. For information on available Sony products, go to: http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan.
Page 67: 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 68: Displaying The Sony Notebook Setup Screen
Click the Start button 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 69: 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. Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen Description Display system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.
Page 70: Controlling Power Management
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Controlling Power Management The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power management 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 71: Power Management Profiles
To customize Power Management settings 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 field. Double-click an item whose setting you want to change from the list in the right field.
Page 72 Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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 73 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 mode to optimize power management for your system. Spreadsheet Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet applications.
Page 74: Power Management Commands
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Power management commands The PowerPanel™ utility 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 75: Displaying Battery Information
Displaying Battery Information You can display 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 76: To Display Detailed Battery Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Battery icon Battery status Fully charged Discharging No battery To display 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 77: To Customize The Battery Information Toolbar And Alarm System
Displaying Battery Information To customize the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system You can customize the Battery Information toolbar and modify the alarm settings, to suit your portable computing needs. Refer to PowerPanel™ Help for more information.
Page 78: 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 79: 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 80 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 81: Adding Memory To Your Vaio Notebook
Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the functionality of your notebook. The amount of memory on your notebook will vary depending on the model you purchased. See the Specifications flyer supplied with your notebook for the amount of memory pre-installed.
Page 82: Precautions And Procedures
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Precautions and Procedures The procedures described below assume you are familiar with the general terminology associated with personal notebooks and with common safety practices required for using and modifying electronic equipment. Personal injury or equipment damage may result from failure to take these precautions.
Page 83 128 MB Memory Models Total System Memory (MB) * The 384 MB and 512 MB memory configurations may require the removal and replacement of original factory-installed memory modules. 256 MB Memory Models Total System Memory (MB) * The 384 MB and 512 MB memory configurations may require the removal and replacement of original factory-installed memory modules.
Page 84: Removing A Memory Module
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Removing a Memory Module Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery pack(s). After the notebook has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 85 Remove the memory module. Removing memory module 1 Pull the tabs in the direction of the arrows. The memory module is released. Replace the memory bay cover. Tighten the screw on the memory bay cover. Removing a Memory Module 2 Pull the memory module in the direction of the arrow.
Page 86: Installing A Memory Module
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Installing a Memory Module Shut down your notebook and disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your printer. Unplug the notebook and remove the battery pack(s). After the notebook has cooled, loosen and remove the screw that secures the cover of the memory bay on the bottom of your notebook.
Page 87 Press the module into place until it clicks. Installing memory module 1 Slide the memory module into the slot. Replace the memory bay cover. Tighten the screw on the cover of the memory bay. Installing a Memory Module 2 Press the module into place until it clicks.
Page 88: 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 89: About The Software On Your Notebook
This section provides the following information: An overview of the various software that come with your notebook and the activities you can perform with your software Details on your Sony application, driver, and system recovery CDs...
Page 90: Software Overview
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Overview Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software listed below, depending on the configuration you purchased. Adobe Acrobat® Reader Adobe Systems Inc. Acrobat Reader software enables you to view, navigate, and print electronic documents in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF), an open file format that is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents created on all major computer platforms.
Page 91 Office and access information anytime. * 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 92 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 share with family and friends.
Page 93 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 94 VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your notebook’s Shortcut keys and i.LINK interface. * 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 95 VAIO Support Agent provides immediate, interactive online support. VisualFlow™ Sony Electronics Inc. VisualFlow software is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick® media. It displays any still picture, movie, or sound file stored in a Memory Stick® media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner.
Page 96: Application, Driver, And System Recovery Cds
Your notebook comes with the following application, driver, and system recovery CDs. To use your recovery CDs, see “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information. Application Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc. This CD enables you to reinstall individual applications if they become corrupted or are erased. Driver Recovery CD(s) Sony Electronics Inc.
Page 97: Using Your Recovery Cds
Recovery CD, contact Sony Customer Support. 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 98 Change text in this variable definition to document title. your computer, hardware, or software application. VAIO Support Agent, an application repair utility, uses a vault feature on the Driver Recovery CD during its software healing process. If you need to reinstall all of the software applications that shipped with your computer, use the System Recovery CD.
Page 99 Click with the left mouse button to highlight the unknown device (identified by a yellow question mark) or the device for which you wish to reinstall the driver. Device Manager screen From the Action menu, click Uninstall. This will remove the device driver from your system.
Page 100 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Reinstalling all drivers with the Driver Recovery CD Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all applications. When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Driver Recovery CD into the optical disc drive.
Page 101: To Use The System Recovery Cd(S)
Properties dialog box Click Reinstall Driver. The Hardware Update Wizard appears. Click Next. The wizard will search for the correct driver on your Driver Recovery CD. 10 When the recovery process is complete, click Finish. Some drivers will require that you reboot the computer to complete installation. To use the System Recovery CD(s) This CD restores your notebook to its original state, so user data and applications will be lost.
Page 102 If your notebook does not start from the Recovery CD Press the power button and hold it for more than four 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.
Page 103 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu. Press the arrow keys to select “Get Default Values” and then press the Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears. Check that “Yes” is selected, then press the Enter key. Press the arrow keys to select “Exit”...
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Page 105: 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 LCD Screen...
Page 106: 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 107: 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 the notebook back on. Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears. Press the directional arrow keys to select the Exit menu.
Page 108: My Notebook Stops Responding Or Does Not Shut Down
Change text in this variable definition to document title. My notebook stops responding or does not shut down. It is best to shut down your notebook 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.
Page 109: The Sound Of My Notebook's Fan Is Too Loud
Troubleshooting Your Notebook The sound of my notebook’s fan is too loud. Use the PowerPanel™ utility to change the Thermal Control Strategy setting to Quiet. This setting slows down the CPU speed. See PowerPanel Help for more information. Why does the System Properties dialog box display a slower CPU speed than advertised? This is normal.
Page 110: Troubleshooting The Lcd Screen
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting the LCD Screen My LCD screen is blank. Check that the notebook is plugged into a power source and that it is turned on. Check that the power indicator on the notebook is on. Check that the battery pack is inserted properly and charged.
Page 111: I Cannot Switch The Lcd Display To Tv, And Vice Versa
Click Start, select Control Panel, and then click the Display icon. The Display Properties dialog box appears. Click on the Settings tab, and click the Advanced button. The Sony Notebook LCD... dialog box appears. Click on the Intel® Graphics Technology tab.
Page 112: Troubleshooting The Mouse And Touchpad
See “Connecting an External Mouse or Keyboard” for more information. If you are using an optional, compatible Sony USB mouse, check that the mouse is plugged into the USB port. If you are still experiencing problems, use your supplied Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the mouse drivers.
Page 113: The Pointer Does Not Move While I Am Using The Touchpad Or Mouse
The pointer does not move while I am using the Touchpad or Mouse. The computer should be restarted. Follow these steps: Press the Windows key. Press the “U” key to select Turn Off Computer, and wait at least four seconds. Press the “R”...
Page 114: Troubleshooting Drives, Pc Cards And Peripheral Devices
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices My floppy disk drive cannot write to a floppy disk. Check that the floppy disk drive is properly inserted into the multipurpose bay. See “Using the Floppy Disk Drive” for more information. Check that a formatted floppy disk is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.
Page 115: My Optical Drive Tray Does Not Open
Make sure any necessary drivers were installed properly. See “Using Your Recovery CDs” for more information on using the drivers. * 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 116: Troubleshooting Software
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Troubleshooting Software My software program stops responding or crashes. Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support. See “Software Support Information” for more information. When I click an application icon, the message “You must insert the application CD into your optical drive”...
Page 117 Troubleshooting Software Verify that your AOL connection still functions satisfactorily with the WAN Network Driver disabled. If you need to reverse this setting, repeat the steps above and select Enable.
Page 118: Troubleshooting The Modem
Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct. Check 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 supplied Driver Recovery CD(s) to reinstall the modem drivers.
Page 119: Troubleshooting Audio
Troubleshooting Audio My speakers make no sound. If the built-in speakers are turned off, press Fn+F3 to turn on the speakers. You can also turn on the speakers using the Jog Dial control. If the speaker volume is turned to the minimum, press Fn+F4, and then press to increase the volume or you can use the Jog Dial control to control the volume.
Page 120: Troubleshooting The Printer
The default setting for the printer port mode is correct for most printers. If you cannot print, try changing the printer port mode. In Sony Notebook Setup, select the Printer tab. If the printer port mode is set to ECP, change it to bi-directional. If the printer port mode is set to bi-directional, change it to ECP.
Page 121: 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 122 Change text in this variable definition to document title.
Page 123: 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 they are listed.
Page 124: Support Options
VAIO Support Agent You can find VAIO Support Agent by clicking Start and then selecting Help and Support. Using advanced diagnostic technology, Sony’s VAIO Support Agent runs scheduled protections of your applications, network settings, and other important software settings. When your software is protected, you can use VAIO Support Agent to repair software problems by restoring your software to any of the previously protected states.
Page 125 4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). Sony Customer Support Software support is available free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase. You can call and speak with a Sony Customer Support Representative without using your computer by calling: 1-888-4-SONY- PC (1-888-476-6972).
Page 126: Software Support Information
Change text in this variable definition to document title. Software Support Information Adobe Acrobat® Reader, eBook Reader, Photoshop® Elements, Premiere (Adobe Systems, Inc.) Web site http://www.adobe.com/ phone 206-675-6126 (fee-based support) e-mail techdocs@adobe.com hours M-F, 6 AM-5 PM PST Apple QuickTime™ (Apple Computer Inc.) Web site http://www.apple.com phone...
Page 127 888-4-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. Sound Forge® XP (Sonic Foundry, Inc.) Web site http://www.sonicfoundry.com phone...
Page 128: Sony Service Center
Change text in this variable definition to document title. 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.
Page 129: Index
Index About This Computer tab AC power setting Access Point, Wireless LAN adding hardware memory peripherals 51, 52 printers adjusting brightness volume Alt key Application Recovery CD Applications key attaching port replicator audio troubleshooting Audio tab Basic/Advanced tab battery information battery pack inserting a second battery packs...
Page 130 Change text in this variable definition to document title. multimedia computer display network parallel port printer phone line port replicator projector to another computer TV display USB device USB port printer weight saver correction keys Ctrl key cursor-movement keys customizing your computer digital video camera display connecting a monitor...
Page 131 Smart Connect IEEE1394 indicator lights 13, 33 battery Caps Lock hard drive Num Lock Scroll Lock Insert key inserting CD-ROM/DVD-ROM discs PC Cards second battery pack installing hard drives hardware memory module peripherals jacks multimedia computer display port replicator keyboard connecting external keyboard, using selecting to display output...
Page 132 Change text in this variable definition to document title. PC Card inserting slots Wireless LAN PC Cards removing troubleshooting peripheral devices troubleshooting Personal Digital Assistant phone connecting line jack playing DVDs port replicator connecting ports 51, 52 printer serial port power indicator power management settings...
Page 133 Printer tab Touchpad tab setup tabs Shift key Smart Connect software troubleshooting Software list Sony Fax-on-Demand service Sony Notebook Setup screen Sony Service Center speakers external switching troubleshooting volume 15, 39, 74 Standby mode Start button support options switching display...
Page 134 Change text in this variable definition to document title. Wireless LAN Access Point...
Page 135 Index...
Page 136 Change text in this variable definition to document title.

Sony PCG-FX340 Primary User Manual

Welcome

Using Your VAIO Notebook

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Customizing Your VAIO Notebook

Adding Memory to Your VAIO Notebook

About the Software on Your Notebook

Troubleshooting

Getting Help

Index

Quick Links

Troubleshooting

Related Manuals for Sony PCG-FX340 Primary

Summary of Contents for Sony PCG-FX340 Primary

Table of Contents