SONY C 420 Service Manual

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-BZ series

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Contents

Before Use .........................................................................................................................................................................6

Notice ...........................................................................................................................................................................7

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................8

Ergonomic Considerations.........................................................................................................................................12

Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................14

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................15

About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................22

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................23

Using the Battery Pack ..............................................................................................................................................24

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................31

Using Your VAIO Computer .............................................................................................................................................32

Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................33

Using the Touch Pad .................................................................................................................................................34

Using Special-function Buttons ..................................................................................................................................35

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...................................................................................................................36

Using the Optical Disc Drive ......................................................................................................................................39

Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................48

Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................51

Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................57

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................61

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................62

Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................70

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Using Peripheral Devices .................................................................................................................................................76

Connecting a Docking Station....................................................................................................................................77

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................................................................................................85

Connecting an External Display .................................................................................................................................86

Selecting Display Modes............................................................................................................................................91

Using the Multiple Monitors Function .........................................................................................................................92

Connecting an External Microphone ..........................................................................................................................94

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device......................................................................................................95

Connecting a Printer ..................................................................................................................................................98

Connecting an i.LINK Device .....................................................................................................................................99

Connecting to a Network (LAN) ...............................................................................................................................101

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ................................................................................................................................103

Setting the Password ...............................................................................................................................................104

Using Fingerprint Authentication ..............................................................................................................................115

Using Trusted Platform Module (TPM).....................................................................................................................123

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center..............................................................................................130

Using the Power Saving Modes ...............................................................................................................................131

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ....................................................................................................136

Protecting Data from Unauthorized Use ..................................................................................................................138

Protecting the Hard Disk ..........................................................................................................................................141

Configuring Your Modem .........................................................................................................................................142

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................144

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................145

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Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................151

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................152

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................153

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................154

On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...........................................................................................................156

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................157

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................158

On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................159

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................160

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................161

On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................162

On Updating Your Computer ...................................................................................................................................163

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................164

Computer .................................................................................................................................................................166

System Security .......................................................................................................................................................172

Battery......................................................................................................................................................................173

Built-in MOTION EYE Camera.................................................................................................................................175

Internet .....................................................................................................................................................................178

Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................180

Bluetooth Technology ..............................................................................................................................................184

Optical Discs ............................................................................................................................................................188

Display .....................................................................................................................................................................192

Printing .....................................................................................................................................................................196

Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................198

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Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................199

Speakers ..................................................................................................................................................................200

Touch Pad................................................................................................................................................................202

Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................203

Floppy Disks ............................................................................................................................................................204

PC Cards .................................................................................................................................................................205

Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................207

Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................208

Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................210

Docking Station ........................................................................................................................................................211

Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................212

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................213

e-Support .................................................................................................................................................................214

Trademarks ....................................................................................................................................................................216

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Before Use

Before Use

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the on-screen User Guide. Sony has
combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing, and communications to provide state-of-the-art personal
computing experience.

!

External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer.

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Before Use

Notice

© 2008 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved.

This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any
machine-readable form without prior written approval.

Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and
hereby expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this
manual, the software, or such other information. In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential,
or special damages, whether based on tort, contract, or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the
software, or other information contained herein or the use thereof.

In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified.

Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time
without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.

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Before Use

Documentation

Your documentation includes printed information and user guides to read on your VAIO computer.

Printed Documentation

❑ Quick Start Guide — Describes the process from unpacking to starting up your VAIO.

❑ Troubleshooting and Recovery Guide — Contains solutions to common problems and computer malfunctions, an

explanation of how to make a backup copy of your data and recover your computer system, and sources of support
information.

❑ Regulations, Guarantee, EULA and Service Support — Contains Sony guarantee conditions,

safety / regulations, modem regulations, wireless LAN regulations, wireless WAN regulations,
Bluetooth regulations, end user software license agreement, and Sony support services information.

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Before Use

Non-printed Documentation

❑ User Guide (this manual) — Explains features of your computer. It also includes information about the software programs

included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems. User Guide is provided in the PDF
format, which you can easily browse through and print out.

To view this on-screen guide:

1 Double-click the VAIO User Guide icon on the desktop.

2 Open the folder for your language.

3 Select the guide you want to read.

✍

You can manually browse to the user guides by going to Computer > VAIO (C:) (your C drive) > Documentation > Documentation and opening the
folder for your language.

To go to Web sites described in this manual by clicking their respective URLs beginning with http://, your computer must be connected to the Internet.

❑ Specifications — The online specifications describe the hardware and software configurations of your VAIO computer.

To view the online specifications:

1 Connect to the Internet.

2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at http://www.vaio-link.com

.

✍

You may have a separate disc for the documentation of bundled accessories.

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Before Use

My Club VAIO

In My Club VAIO you can find:

❑ Information of compatible accessories that will help you expand the capabilities of your computer.

❑ An overview of your software and its upgrade options.

❑ Sony and Club VAIO wallpapers that you can download and enjoy.

❑ A list of links that lead you to Sony and Club VAIO Web sites.

Windows Help and Support

Windows Help and Support is a comprehensive resource for practical advice, tutorials, and demonstrations to help you
learn to use your computer.

Use the Search feature, Index, or table of contents to view all Windows Help resources, including those that are on the
Internet.

To access Windows Help and Support, click Start and Help and Support. Or go to Windows Help and Support by
pressing and holding the Microsoft Windows key and pressing the F1 key.

Further Sources

❑ Consult the help files on the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting.

❑ Go to http://www.club-vaio.com

to find online tutorials about your favorite VAIO software.

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Before Use

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Before Use

Ergonomic Considerations

You will be using your computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt
to take account of the following ergonomic considerations for both stationary and portable environments:

❑ Position of 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, touch pad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms
hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain
eyes, muscles, or tendons.

❑ 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.

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Before Use

❑ Viewing angle of the computer's display – Use the display's tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye

strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness level of the display
as well.

❑ Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not cause glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect

lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency.

❑ Positioning an external display – When using an external display, set the display at a comfortable viewing distance.

Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.

Getting Started

This section describes how to get started using your VAIO computer.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 15)

❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 22)

❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 23)

❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 24)

❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 31)

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Getting Started

Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

Take a moment to identify the controls and ports shown on the following pages.

!

The appearance of your computer may be different from those illustrated in this manual due to variations in specifications. It may also vary in some
countries or areas.

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Front

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Getting Started

A Built-in microphone (monaural)
B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator
C Built-in MOTION EYE camera

*1

*1

(page 36)

*1

(page 22)

D LCD screen (page 152)
E Built-in speakers (stereo)
F Keyboard (page 33)
G Touch pad (page 34)
H Headphones jack (page 85)
I Microphone jack (page 94)

J Memory Stick slot

*2

(page 51)

K Media Access indicator (page 22)
L SD memory card slot (page 57)
M Charge indicator (page 22)
N Hard disk drive/Optical disc drive indicator (page 22)
O WIRELESS indicator (page 22)

*1

On selected models only.

*2

Your computer supports both standard- and Duo-size Memory Stick media.

WIRELESS switch (page 62)

A
B Muting button (page 35)
C S1 button (page 35)
D Num lock indicator (page 22)
E Caps lock indicator (page 22)
F Scroll lock indicator (page 22)

G Fingerprint sensor

* On selected models only.

*

(page 115)

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Getting Started

Back

A Battery connector (page 24)

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Getting Started

Right

A i.LINK 4-pin (S400) port (page 99)
B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

C Optical disc drive (page 39)
D Optical disc drive indicator (page 22)
E Drive eject button (page 39)
F Manual eject hole (page 188)
G Network (Ethernet) port (page 101)
H Modem port (page 61)
I Power button/Power indicator (page 22)

* Support high-/full-/low- speeds.

*

(page 95)

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Getting Started

Left

A DC IN port (page 23)
B Security slot
C Air vent

D Monitor port
E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

*1

(page 87)

*2

(page 95)

F PC Card slot (page 48)
G PC Card release button (page 50)

*1

Disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station.

*2

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

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Getting Started

Bottom

A Air vents
B Docking station connector (page 79)

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Getting Started

Getting Started

About the Indicator Lights

Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights.

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates in green when the computer is turned on, blinks slowly in orange while the computer is in Sleep

mode, and turns off when the computer is placed into Hibernate mode or turned off.

Charge

Media Access Illuminates while data is being read from or written to a memory card. (Do not place the computer into Sleep

Built-in MOTION EYE camera

Optical disc drive Illuminates while data is being read from or written to the optical disc media. When the indicator is off, the optical

Hard disk drive/Optical disc drive

Num lock

Caps lock

Scroll lock

WIRELESS Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is turned on, provided that one or more wireless options are enabled

* On selected models only.

Illuminates while the battery pack is charging. See Charging the Battery Pack (page 27) for more information.

mode or turn it off when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the memory card is not in use.

*

Illuminates while the built-in MOTION EYE camera is in use.

disc media is not in use.

Illuminates while data is being read from or written to the hard disk drive or the optical disc media. Do not place
the computer into Sleep mode or turn it off when this indicator is on.

Press the Num Lk key to activate the numeric keypad. Press it a second time to deactivate the numeric keypad.
The numeric keypad is not active when the indicator is off.

Press the Caps Lock key to type letters in uppercase. Letters appear in lowercase if you press the Shift key
while the indicator is on. Press the key a second time to turn off the indicator. Normal typing resumes when the
Caps lock indicator is off.

Press the Scr Lk key to change how you scroll the display. Normal scrolling resumes when the Scroll lock
indicator is off. The Scr Lk key functions differently depending on the program you are using and does not work
with all programs.

in the VAIO Smart Network window.

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Getting Started

Connecting a Power Source

You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source for your computer.

Using the AC Adapter

✍

Be sure to use the AC adapter supplied with your computer.

To use the AC adapter

1 Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter (3).

2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).

3 Plug the cable connected to the AC adapter (3) into the DC IN port (4) on the computer or on the optional docking station.

✍

To disconnect your computer completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.

Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible.

If you do not intend to use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 134).
This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down and resuming.

Using the Battery Pack

The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of delivery.

Installing the Battery Pack

To install the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.

2 Slide the battery LOCK switch (1) inward.

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Getting Started

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Getting Started

3 Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projections (2) on either side of the battery

compartment fit into the U-shaped cuts (3) on either side of the battery pack.

4 Rotate the battery pack in the direction of the arrow, and push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks

into place.

5 Slide the battery LOCK switch outward to secure the battery pack on the computer.

✍

When your computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed, it uses power from the AC outlet.

!

Certain rechargeable batteries do not meet Sony quality and safety standards. For safety reasons this computer only functions with genuine Sony
batteries designed for this model. When installing another kind of battery, the battery will not be charged and the computer will not function.

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Getting Started

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of delivery.

To charge the battery pack

1 Install the battery pack.

2 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

The charge indicator turns on while the battery pack is charging. When the battery pack charges close to the maximum
charge level you selected with the battery care function, the charge indicator turns off. To select your desired maximum
charge level, see Using the Battery Care Function (page 29).

Charge indicator light status Meaning

Lit in orange The battery pack is charging.

Unlit The battery pack is in any of the following states:

Blinks along with the green power
indicator light

Blinks along with the orange power
indicator light

Blinks fast in orange A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery

- Fully charged.

- Completely out of power.

- Removed.

The battery pack is running out of power. (Normal
mode)

The battery pack is running out of power. (Sleep mode)

pack or an unlocked battery pack.

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!

Charge the battery pack as described in this manual from your first battery charge.

Getting Started

✍

Keep the battery pack in your computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the
computer.

If the battery level falls below 10%, you should either connect the AC adapter to recharge the battery pack or shut down your computer and install a
fully charged battery pack.

The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery pack and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery pack
does not affect the battery life.

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when battery life is low. To avoid loss
of data when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as Sleep or Hibernate.

If the battery pack wears out when the computer enters Sleep mode, you will lose all unsaved data. Going back to the previous work state is impossible.
To avoid loss of data, you should save your data frequently.

When your computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed, it uses power from the AC outlet.

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Getting Started

Using the Battery Care Function

You can select your desired maximum charge level to reduce battery degradation and check the battery wear level with the
battery care function.

To use the battery care function

1 Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.

2 Click Power Management and Battery Care Function.

3 Click to select the Enable Battery Care Function check box in the right pane.

4 Click Advanced.

5 Select the desired maximum charge level.

6 Click OK.

To check the battery wear level

Follow steps 1 and 4 in To use the battery care function above and check detailed information. If the battery wear level is
high, replace the battery pack with a new genuine Sony battery pack.

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Getting Started

Removing the Battery Pack

!

You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while your computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery pack
while the computer is in Sleep mode.

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.

2 Slide the battery LOCK switch (1) inward.

3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (2) inward, hook your fingertip under the tab (3) on the battery pack, and turn

the battery pack in the direction of the arrow, and then slide it away from the computer.