Sony CS User Manual

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Page 1

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGC-LS1 Series

Page 2

Contents

Before Use .........................................................................................................................................................................5

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................5

Ergonomic Considerations...........................................................................................................................................7

Getting Started ...................................................................................................................................................................9

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................10

About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................15

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................16

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................19

Using Your VAIO Computer.............................................................................................................................................20

Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................21

Using the Mouse ........................................................................................................................................................28

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...................................................................................................................33

Using the Optical Disc Drive ......................................................................................................................................35

Using the TV Function ...............................................................................................................................................46

Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................62

Using the ExpressCard Module .................................................................................................................................65

Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................69

Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................74

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................77

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................78

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Using Peripheral Devices .................................................................................................................................................87

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device......................................................................................................88

Connecting a Printer ..................................................................................................................................................90

Connecting an i.LINK Device .....................................................................................................................................91

Connecting to a Network (LAN) .................................................................................................................................93

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ..................................................................................................................................94

Setting the Password .................................................................................................................................................95

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central ...........................................................................................................98

Using the Power Saving Modes.................................................................................................................................99

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................104

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................105

Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................111

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................112

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................113

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................114

On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...........................................................................................................116

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................116

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................117

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................118

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................119

On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................120

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Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................121

Computer .................................................................................................................................................................122

System Security .......................................................................................................................................................129

Built-in MOTION EYE Camera.................................................................................................................................131

Internet.....................................................................................................................................................................134

Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................136

CDs and DVDs.........................................................................................................................................................139

Display .....................................................................................................................................................................143

Printing.....................................................................................................................................................................144

Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................145

Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................146

Speakers..................................................................................................................................................................147

Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................148

Floppy Disks ............................................................................................................................................................149

PC Cards .................................................................................................................................................................150

Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................151

Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................152

Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................153

Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................154

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................154

Program Support Information...................................................................................................................................155

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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.

Documentation

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

Printed Documentation

❑ Welcome mat — Contains an overview of connections, setting up information, etc. ❑ Safety Information — Contains safety guidelines and owner information.

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Before Use

Non-printed Documentation

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

included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems.

❑ Specifications — The online Specifications describe the hardware and software configuration 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://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/

at http://www.sony.ca/support

for customers in Canada, or at http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/ for customers in

Latin American countries or areas.

❑ VAIO Recovery Guide — Provides information about restoring individual software programs, software drivers, and drive

partition(s) or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings. To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAIO Documentation. 3 Click VAI O Recovery Guide.

❑ MCE Guide — Provides information about using the Windows XP Media Center Edition operating system.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAI O Documentation. 3 Click MCE Guide.

for customers in USA,

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Ergonomic Considerations

Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations:

Before Use

❑ Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral equipment. ❑ Position of your computer – Place the display directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your

wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, pointing device, 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 muscles or tendons.

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Before Use

❑ 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.

❑ Viewing angle of the 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 setting of the display as well.

While adjusting the viewing angle, do not exert excessive pressure on your computer, especially on the center of the speaker grill, to eliminate a risk of mechanical damage.

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

lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.

❑ Ventilation – Make sure you leave at least 4 inches (10 cm) of space behind and at least 8 inches (20 cm) of space on

each side of the main unit.

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Getting Started

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

Before starting your computer for the first time, do not connect any new hardware that did not originally come with your computer. Make sure to start up your computer with only the supplied accessories connected and set up your system. Upon completion, connect one device (for example, a printer, an external hard disk drive, a scanner, and so on) at a time, following the manufacturer's instructions.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 10) ❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 15) ❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 16) ❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 19)

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Locating Controls and Ports

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

Front

A Built-in speakers B Built-in microphone (monaural) C Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 33) D Power indicator (page 15) E Power button F MONITOR OFF button / MONITOR OFF indicator (page 15)

Press this button to turn off the LCD backlight and the speaker volum

✍

You can change the MONITOR OFF button setting to keep the speaker volume on. See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central (page 98) and find out more in its help file.

G LCD screen (page 112) H Hard disk drive indicator (page 15) I WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 15)

Getting Started

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Back

Getting Started

A Back panel cover

Remove the back panel cover to access the ports and jacks behind it (page 16).

Before removing the cover, be sure to shut down your computer.

B Prop-up stand

Grasp the side ends with both hands and raise the bottom end, as shown below, to place your computer upright. When moving or storing the computer, you can simply push it back in for easy handling.

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Capture angle adjuster (page 34)

A B AUDIO INPUT (L/R) jacks (page 55) C VIDEO INPUT (S VIDEO/VIDEO) port (page 55) D VHF/UHF port (page 46) E Network (Ethernet) port (page 93) F DC IN port (page 16) G Cable bundler (page 18) H CONNECT button (page 21), (page 28) I WLAN (Wireless LAN) switch (page 78)

J Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

(page 88)

K Modem port (page 77)

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

Getting Started

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Right

A Optical disc drive (page 35) B Optical disc drive indicator (page 15) C Drive eject button (page 37)

Getting Started

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Left

Getting Started

A PC Card slot (page 62) B PC Card release button (page 64) C SD memory card slot (page 75) D Headphones jack

Connect external headphones or speakers.

E Line In jack

Connect an external audio device for audio input.

F Microphone jack

Connect an external microphone.

G Universal ExpressCard

slot*1 (page 66)

H Media Access indicator (page 15) I Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot

(page 71)

J i.LINK (IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 91) K Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

Referred to as the ExpressCard slot hereinafter.

Your computer supports Memory Stick PRO media and Memory Stick Duo media with high speed and high capacity capabilities.

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

(page 88)

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Getting Started

About the Indicator Lights

Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights.

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates in green when the power of the computer is on, illuminates in orange when the computer is in

Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is in Hibernate mode or off.

Media Access Illuminates when data is read from or written to a memory card. (Do not enter Standby mode or turn

MONITOR OFF Illuminates in orange when the LCD backlight and the speaker volume are turned off.

Optical disc drive Illuminates when data is read from or written to the optical disc. When the indicator is off, the optical disc is not

Hard disk drive

WIRELESS LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running.

✍

You can change the brightness of the indicator lights. See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central (page 98) and find out more in its help file.

off the computer when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the memory card is not being used.

being used.

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk drive. Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on.

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Connecting a Power Source

You need an AC adapter as a power source for your computer.

Before accessing the DC IN port

You need to remove the back panel cover (1). Simply pull the cover off your computer.

Be sure to put the cover back on the computer when you are done.

Getting Started

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Using the AC Adapter

✍

Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter.

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 attached to the AC adapter (3) into the DC IN port (4) on the computer.

Getting Started

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Getting Started

✍

You can bundle the AC adapter cable along with other cables to keep them tidy. Snap open the cable bundler, route the cables through it, and then snap the cable bundler back shut as shown below:

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 use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 102). This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down or resuming.

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Getting Started

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

To avoid losing unsaved data, be sure to shut down your computer properly, as described below.

To shut down your computer

1 Turn off any peripherals connected to the computer. 2 Click Start and then Turn Off Computer.

The Turn off computer window appears. 3 Click Turn O ff. 4 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for the computer to turn off

automatically.

The power indicator light turns off.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

This section describes how to get the most out of using your computer.

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 21) ❑ Using the Mouse (page 28) ❑ Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera (page 33) ❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 35) ❑ Using the TV Function (page 46) ❑ Using PC Cards (page 62) ❑ Using the ExpressCard Module (page 65) ❑ Using the Memory Stick Media (page 69) ❑ Using Other Memory Cards (page 74) ❑ Using the Internet (page 77) ❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 78)

Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

A wireless keyboard is supplied with your computer. The wireless keyboard uses a standard key arrangement with additional keys that perform specific functions.

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Using the Wireless Keyboard

Using Your VAIO Computer

A Function keys

Perform certain tasks. The task associated with each function key varies among software applications except the following combinations with the Fn key.

Fn + F5: Decreases lightness intensity of the LCD screen. Fn + F6: Increases lightness intensity of the LCD screen. Fn + F10: Changes the screen resolution.

B Muting button

Turns the volume on and off.

C Volume control buttons

Increase (+) or decrease (-) the volume.

D Shortcut buttons

Perform the pre-assigned tasks. The default tasks are as follows:

S1: Launches or exits LifeFlow. S2: Launches Internet Explorer. When Internet Explorer is up

and running, press this button to magnify the contents in the foreground Internet Explorer window. One press magnifies the contents by 25%. When magnification reaches 200%, it goes back to 100%. If the Internet Explorer window is minimized or hidden behind another window, pressing this button will bring the window into the foreground. S3: Opens the Media Center Start menu.

✍

You can change these button assignments with VAIO Central. See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central (page 98) and find out more in its help file.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Standby button

Provides for the lower level of power consumption.

For details on power management, see Using the Power Saving

Modes (page 99).

F POWER switch

Slide the POWER switch to turn on and off the wireless keyboard.

G Indicators

(Battery): turns on while the AA batteries for the

wireless keyboard are sufficient and switches to when the

batteries wear out.

(Num lock): Turns on while in the Num Lock state.

(Caps lock): Turns on while in the Caps Lock state. (Scroll lock): Turns on while in the Scroll Lock state.

(Connect): Turns on while connection between the computer and the wireless keyboard is in place to indicate that the keyboard is ready for use (page 26).

H Windows key

Displays the Start menu.

I Applications key

Displays a shortcut menu in certain software applications.

J Directional arrow keys

Move the pointer on the computer screen.

K Numeric keypad

Use the numeric keypad to type numbers or to perform basic math calculations.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

A Keyboard feet

Flip open to adjust the keyboard angle.

B CONNECT button

Press to enable the wireless keyboard to communicate with the main unit.

C Battery compartment

Storage compartment for the AA batteries.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Before You Use the Keyboard

Four AA alkaline batteries are supplied with your computer for use in the wireless keyboard. Before attempting to use the wireless keyboard, you must install the batteries and establish communication between the computer and the keyboard. To connect your wireless keyboard, it must be located within a range of approximately 11.8 inches (30 cm) to approximately 39.4 inches (1 m) from the computer.

To maintain good communication, operate the wireless keyboard within the distance limitations of keyboard: approximately 32.8 feet (10 m) from your computer.

Confirm that the supplied AA batteries are properly installed.

Press the CONNECT button located on the back of your computer first, and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the wireless keyboard.

Avoid using any wireless devices that exchange radio signals on the 2.4 GHz frequency band near the wireless keyboard. These devices may cause interference, causing the keyboard to stop working properly.

Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wireless keyboard, as this may create interference, causing the keyboard to stop working properly.

Do not mix old (used) and new batteries when replacing batteries in the wireless keyboard. Always use the same type and manufacture of battery.

Do not mix alkaline with manganese batteries. Using incompatible batteries or mixing used, new or different types of batteries can damage the wireless keyboard.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect the wireless keyboard

1 Insert the supplied four AA batteries (1) into the battery compartment (2) on the bottom of the wireless keyboard. 2 Turn on the computer. 3 Slide the POWER switch (3) at the top of the keyboard to the ON position. 4 Press the CONNECT button (4) on the back of the computer. 5 Press the CONNECT button (5) on the bottom of the keyboard.

The connect indicator turns on in the indicator window on the keyboard when connection is established between the computer and the keyboard. If not, repeat the procedure.

Steps 4 and 5 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other.

If the wireless keyboard is left unused for 20 minutes or longer, the connect indicator will turn off. This could indicate that the connection between your computer and the keyboard is lost. Press the Fn key to check that the connect indicator turns on before using the keyboard.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

You can check the battery indicator ( or ) in the indicator window on the wireless keyboard for its battery power level.

If the wireless keyboard does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced. If the wireless keyboard is not being used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.

If you want to put the wireless keyboard in a more 'ergonomic' position, flip open the keyboard feet.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Mouse

A wireless mouse is supplied with your computer.

Using the Wireless Mouse

The wireless optical mouse has no cables to plug in and uses a light-emitting diode (LED) instead of a ball.

A Left button

Click or double-click the left button to select items. To drag and drop items, hold the left button down while sliding the mouse, then release the button to drop the item.

B Central wheel

Rotate the central wheel to scroll up or down a page. Press the wheel once to lock the scroll action and control the movement by moving the entire mouse (the scroll function is available only with applications that support it).

C Right button

Press the right button once to display a context-sensitive shortcut menu (not always an active function).

D Power switch

Slide the switch to turn the mouse on and off. This will help you save battery power.

E CONNECT button

Press to enable communication between the computer and the wireless mouse.

F Battery indicator

Blinks when the mouse batteries are running out of power.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Before You Use the Mouse

Two AA alkaline batteries are supplied with your computer for use in the wireless mouse. Before attempting to use the wireless mouse, you must install the batteries and establish communication between your computer and the mouse. To connect the wireless mouse, it must be located within a range of approximately 11.8 inches (30 cm) to approximately 39.4 inches (1 m) from the computer.

To maintain good communication, operate the wireless mouse within the distance limitations of mouse: approximately 32.8 feet (10 m) from your computer.

Confirm that the supplied AA batteries are properly installed.

Press the CONNECT button located on the back of your computer first, and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the wireless mouse.

Avoid using any wireless devices that exchange radio signals on the 2.4 GHz frequency band near the wireless mouse. These devices may cause interference, causing the mouse to stop working properly.

Use surfaces such as plain paper, card stock, or fabric that have minimal repetitive patterns.

Avoid surfaces such as mirrors, smooth glass, or magazines that have half- tone printing.

Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wireless mouse, as this may create interference, causing the mouse to stop working properly.

Do not mix old (used) and new batteries when replacing batteries in the wireless mouse. Always use the same type and manufacture of battery.

Do not mix alkaline with manganese batteries. Using incompatible batteries or mixing used, new or different types of batteries can damage the wireless mouse.

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To connect the wireless mouse

1 Insert the supplied two AA batteries into the wireless mouse as shown below.

2 Turn on the computer. 3 Press the CONNECT button (1) on the back of the computer.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

4 Turn over the wireless mouse, slide the power switch to the ON position, and press the CONNECT button.

Communication between the wireless mouse and the computer should now be established.

Step 3 and 4 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other.

✍

If the wireless mouse does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced. If the wireless mouse is not being used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.

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Adjusting the Mouse Functions

1 Click Start and then Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware. 3 Click Mouse.

The Mouse Properties window appears.

4 Change the settings.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera

Your computer is equipped with a built-in MOTION EYE camera. The built-in MOTION EYE camera adds video functionality to instant messaging software and video editing software, for

example Windows Messenger and Windows MovieMaker. Turning on the computer activates the built-in MOTION EYE camera, so the computer is ready for a video conference using

such software. Note that launching or exiting your instant messaging or video editing software does not activate or deactivate the built-in

MOTION EYE camera, respectively. Make sure that the camera is activated before using the software.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

The built-in MOTION EYE camera cannot be shared by more than one software application. If another software application is using the camera, exit the application before using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.

You can change the capture angle of the built-in MOTION EYE camera with the capture angle adjuster (1) on the back of your computer.

up the horizontal bar to adjust the angle upward or downward, respectively, until you see the live feed in the desired angle.

The viewer window may show some noises, for example horizontal streaks, if you view a rapid-moving object. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

Push down or

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Using the Optical Disc Drive

Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.

To insert a disc

Be sure to attach the 8cm disc adapter to an 8cm disc before inserting the disc into the optical disc drive slot.

1 Turn on the computer. 2 With the label side facing toward you, slide a disc into the optical disc drive slot.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

In Standby or Hibernate mode, inserting a disc will automatically launch Windows and may display a window for selecting your preferred software program to launch or may automatically launch a preinstalled CD/DVD program.

If you plan to use an external optical disc drive, connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled CD/DVD program.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To remove a disc

The drive eject button is disabled when your computer is turned off.

Do not remove the optical disc when your computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate). Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction.

1 Check that the optical disc drive indicator (1) is off. 2 Press the drive eject button (2).

The optical disc slides out.

✍

If pressing the drive eject button does not slide the disc out of the drive, restart your computer and repeat the procedure.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs

Your computer plays and records CDs and DVDs, depending on the model you purchased. Check your specifications for the type of optical disc drive installed on your model. Use the table below to see which types of media your optical disc drive supports.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

PR: playable and recordable P: playable but not recordable –: not playable nor recordable

CDROM

DVD±RW/±R DL/RAM PPPPPRPP

DVD±RW/+R DL/RAMPPPPPRPP

DVD±RW

PPPPPRPP

(Supporting DVD±R DL)

DVD±RW

PPPPPRPP

(Supporting DVD+R DL)

CD-RW/DVD-ROM PPPPPRPPPPPP–

DVD-ROM PPPPPPPPPPP–

Supports writing data to DVD-R discs compliant with DVD-R for General Version 2.0/2.1.

Supports writing data to DVD-RW discs compliant with DVD-RW Version 1.1/1.2.

The DVD±RW/RAM disc drive on your computer does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with removable cartridge.

Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM discs (2.6 GB) compliant with DVD-RAM Version 1.0 is not supported. DVD-RAM Version 2.2/12X-SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 5.0 disc is not supported.

Writing data to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD+R DL (Double Layer) recording.

Writing data to DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) recording.

Video CDMusic CDCD

Extra

CD-R/RWDVD-

ROM

DVDVideo

DVD-R/RWDVD+R/RWDVD+R DLDVD-R DLDVD-

RAM

*1 *2

P–

–

*3 *4

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Using Your VAIO Computer

PR: playable and recordable P: playable but not recordable –: not playable nor recordable

CDROM

Blu-ray Disc Drive

Supports writing data to BD-R Version 1.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB) and BD-RE Version 2.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB). The Blu-ray disc drive on your computer does not support BD-RE Version 1.0 discs and Blu-ray cartridge discs.

Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW discs is not supported.

BD-R stands for Blu-ray Disc-Recordable in Version 1.1 format.

*10

BD-RE stands for Blu-ray Disc-Rewritable in Version 2.1 format.

PPPP

Video CDMusic CDCD

Extra

CD-R/RWDVD-

ROM

PPP

DVDVideo

BDROM

DVD-R/RWDVD+R/RWDVD+R DLDVD-R DLDVD-

RAM

*1 *2

BD-R

*10

This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc Digital Audio standard specifications (CD Standard). A Dual Disc is a two sided disc product which mates DVD recorded material on one side with digital audio material on the other side. Please be aware that the audio side (non-DVD side) of a Dual Disc may not play on this product because it does not conform to the CD Standard.

Due to the multiple formats of discs now available, when buying pre-recorded or blank discs for use with a VAIO computer, be sure to read the notices on the disc packaging carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer's optical disc drives. Sony does NOT guarantee the compatibility of VAIO CD drives with discs that are not compliant with the official "CD" format standard (or "DVD" standard in relation to DVD drives). USING NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO PC OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING. For inquiries about disc formats, contact the individual publisher of the pre-recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc.

✍

Supports 8cm disc reading, but not 8cm disc writing.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Notes on writing data to a disc

❑ To make data on a disc readable on the optical disc drive, you need to close the session before you eject it. To complete

this process, follow the instructions included with your software.

❑ Only use circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage the optical disc

drive.

❑ Do not strike or shake your computer while writing data to a disc. ❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data to a disc. ❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software while writing data to a disc. This may cause your computer to malfunction. ❑ When using your software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications. ❑ Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors. ❑ Do not switch power modes while using the preinstalled software and while using the CD burning software. ❑ Never affix an adhesive label to discs. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably. ❑ Use only Sony Value-added software when writing to CD/DVD media. (Ex: Click to DVD)

Other software programs may not be fully compatible and errors may result.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Notes on playing DVDs

To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, you should follow these recommendations.

❑ Close all open applications before playing a DVD movie. ❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software to speed up disc access when playing a DVD. This may cause your computer

to malfunction.

❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before playing a disc. ❑ Some discs recorded at 20 or 24 bits may produce noise while playing. If you have audio devices connected, this may

damage your hearing and the speakers. Reduce the volume before playing a DVD.

❑ Do not switch to power saving modes while your computer is playing a DVD. ❑ Region code indicators are labeled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the

disc. If the DVD is labeled "all," this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the world. If the region code of your residence area is different from the label on the DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on your computer.

❑ If Wireless LAN is activated, playing DVDs may cause some interruptions in audio and video. ❑ When you are playing a DVD (video or audio) and you want to remove a USB device, such as USB-compatible speakers,

make sure you stop the DVD first. Removing a USB-compatible device during DVD (video or audio) playback may cause a malfunction.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Playing CDs

To play an audio CD

1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive. 2 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to start the desired CD software, such

as the SonicStage software. If the Audio CD window appears, click to select an option.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Copying Files to CDs

To copy files to a disc

Do not strike or shake your computer while writing data to a disc.

1 Insert a blank disc into the optical disc drive.

If the CD Drive window appears, click Take no action and then click OK.

2 Right-click Start and then click Explore. 3 In the Folders panel on the left, locate the file(s) or folder(s) you want to copy, right-click the file(s) or folder(s), point to

Send To, and then click the optical disc drive

4 Close the window. 5 Click Start and then My Computer. 6 Click the optical disc drive icon under Devices with Removable Storage. A new window appears with the file(s) or

folder(s) you want to copy listed under Files Ready to Be Written to the CD.

7 In the CD Writing Tasks box, click Write these files to CD. 8 Follow the instructions in the CD Writing Wizard.

* The read/write drive letter designation may vary, depending on your system's hardware configuration.

name.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Playing DVDs

To play a DVD

1 Close all running software applications. 2 Insert a DVD into the optical disc drive. 3 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to start the desired DVD software to

play the DVD.

For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD software.

Copying Files to DVDs

To copy files to a disc

1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive. 2 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to start the DVD software you want

to use.

For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD software.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the TV Function

Your computer has a TV tuner board installed along with the Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition operating system to enhance your computing experience.

Media Center provides you with a wide range of TV, DVD, and video viewing, as well as music recording and playback. This section describes how to set up your TV, set-top box, and other equipment. See the online MCE Guide for more information on Media Center features.

To access this on-screen guide

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAI O Documentation. 3 Click MCE Guide.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Setting Up TV Connections

The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type of cable connection available in your home.

TV signal reception strength will vary widely depending on service availability in your area as well as the type of connection available.

One primary cable to connect the computer to a TV cable or antenna is the TV coaxial cable (supplied). One end connects to the computer's VHF/UHF port, and the other end connects to the cable service access or antenna.

A TV coaxial cable

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Connecting to standard cable access (CATV)

To connect in CATV mode (Option 1)

1 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (1) (supplied) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). 2 Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port (3) on the computer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect in CATV mode (Option 2)

1 Connect the two metal hooks on a 75-ohm/300-ohm RCA transformer cable (1) (not supplied) to the screw-type grips at

your cable service access (wall outlet) (2).

2 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (3) (supplied) to the transformer end of the RCA transformer cable (1). Connect

the other end to the VHF/UHF port (4) on the computer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Connecting to a standard antenna

You can connect your computer to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or Option 2 from the previous section, Connecting to standard cable access (CATV) (page 48). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (not supplied) to connect the computer and the indoor/outdoor antenna system.

✍

If you are connecting to an indoor/outdoor antenna, you may need to reorient the antenna for best reception. Move the antenna cable away from other power sources or connectors to reduce reception interference.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect in terrestrial mode (Option 1)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (not supplied) to your antenna outlet (2). Connect the other end to a VHF/UHF

RF combiner/transformer (3) (not supplied).

2 Connect a coaxial cable feed connector (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3). 3 Connect one end of another TV coaxial cable (5) (supplied) to the feed connector (4). Connect the other end to the VHF/

UHF port (6) on the computer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect in terrestrial mode (Option 2)

1 Connect one end of a 300-ohm twin lead cable (1) (not supplied) to the screw-type grips at your antenna outlet (2).

Connect the other end to the grips on a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3) (not supplied).

2 Connect a coaxial cable feed connector (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3). 3 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (5) (supplied) to the feed connector (4). Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF

port (6) on the computer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Connecting with a cable or satellite set-top box (STB)

You can connect your computer to cable service access that uses a set-top box (cable or satellite). When using the set-top box (STB) setup, you can only change channels through the STB, using its controls or the supplied remote commander.

When using the STB setup: ❑ A standard TV remote control cannot be used to change TV channels. You can use your TV remote control to set the TV

to the channel-out number (channel 3, 4, etc.) or direct video input specified by your cable or satellite service provider.

❑ You may be able to use a universal remote control or commander to change TV channels, if the device is capable of

controlling the STB.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect in STB mode (Option 1)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (not supplied) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). Connect the other

end to the VHF/UHF IN port on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) (3).

2 Connect a second TV coaxial cable (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF OUT port on the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect

the other end to the single-connection end of a splitter device (5) (not supplied).

3 Connect a third TV coaxial cable (6) (supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter device (5). Connect the other

end to the VHF/UHF port (7) on the computer.

4 Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (8) (not supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter device (5). Connect the

other end to the VHF/UHF port (9) on the rear of your TV monitor or display.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect in STB mode (Option 2)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (supplied) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). Connect the other end

to the VHF/UHF IN port on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) (3).

2 Connect a second TV coaxial cable (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF OUT port on the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect

the other end to the VHF/UHF port (5) on the rear of your TV monitor or display.

3 Connect one end of a stereo A/V dubbing cable with triple RCA jacks (6) (not supplied), to the Composite Audio Out (L/

R) jacks (7) and the Video Out jack (8) on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) unit (3), matching the plug and jack colors.

4 Connect the other RCA jacks of the stereo A/V dubbing cable (6) into the AUDIO INPUT (L/R) jacks (9) and the VIDEO

INPUT (VIDEO) jack (10) on the computer, matching the plug and jack colors.

5 If you prefer better video quality, connect one end of an S Video cable (11) (not supplied) to the S Video Out port (12) on

the back panel of the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect the other end to the VIDEO INPUT (S VIDEO) port (13) on the computer.

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Using the Remote Commander

A remote commander is supplied with your computer for using Media Center features, including TV channel selection.

A MY MUSIC button

Press to view and listen to your music playlists.

B MY TV button

Press to view the My TV menu.

C STOP button

Press to stop media playback or TV recording session. PAU SE button Press to pause media playback. Press again to resume playback. FWD button Press to fast-forward media at three speeds. SKIP button Press to move media forward, for example, one audio track, one DVD chapter, and 30 seconds of recorded TV or video. REPLAY button Press to move media backward, for example, one audio track, one DVD chapter, and seven seconds of TV or video. REW button Press to move media backward at two speeds. RECORD button Press to begin recording. PLAY N button Press to begin media playback.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

BACK button

Press to return to the previous window.

E VOL buttons

Press to increase (+) or decrease (-) the volume.

F RECORDED TV button

Press to view previously recorded TV programs (In My TV window).

G GUIDE button

Press to view the TV program guide for your area.

H Alphanumeric buttons

Press to select specific channels or enter text. (Press ENTER or OK to activate the channel selection.)

I CLEAR button

Press to backspace and delete entered text.

J STANDBY button

Press to place the computer in Standby mode to reduce power consumption.

K MY PICTURES button

Press to view pictures or a slide show.

L MY VIDEOS button

Press to view videos from your video collection.

M MORE button

Press to view additional options that are available for Media Center features.

N Directional arrow buttons

Press the M, m, <, and , buttons to move the pointer on the computer screen. OK button Press OK to select the desired action or window option. When watching full-screen TV, press OK to return to the previous channel. Press OK again to switch between channels.

O CH/PG (Channel/Page) buttons

Press to change or page up/down channels (no number input required).

P START button

Press to open the Media Center Start menu. MUTE button Press to turn off the sound. Press again to restore the sound.

Q DVD MENU button

Press to open the main menu on a DVD.

R LIVE TV button

Press to view TV programs.

S ENTER button

Press to activate feature or action, such as channel selection or return to previous channel. (This button's actions are similar to using the OK button.)

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Before you use the remote commander

Before using the remote commander, you need to insert the supplied AA manganese batteries and connect the remote sensor to enable communication between the computer and the remote commander.

To insert batteries

1 Turn the remote commander over. 2 Press the tab (1) and lift the battery cover up. 3 Insert the supplied two AA batteries into the remote commander.

4 Align the battery cover to the remote commander. 5 Press down until the cover clicks into place.

✍

If the remote commander does not operate properly, you may need to replace the batteries. When the remote commander has not been used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.

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To connect the remote sensor

1 Choose the USB port (1) you prefer to use. 2 Plug the remote sensor cable (2) into the USB port.

3 Position the remote sensor (3) to enable unobstructed communication with the remote commander.

If you are using a cable or satellite set-top box, you can attach the remote sensor control to the remote sensor, which enables you to control the set-top box with the remote commander.

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To connect the remote sensor control

1 Plug the cable from the remote sensor control (1) into either jack (1 or 2) on the back of the remote sensor (2).

2 Remove the adhesive tape cover from the bottom of the remote sensor control (1). 3 Attach the remote sensor control (1) onto the set-top box (3) near the infrared port (4).

Do not cover the infrared port when attaching the remote sensor control.

The remote sensor must be visible in a line-of-sight with the remote commander in order to function properly.

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Using PC Cards

PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices to your computer.

Inserting a PC Card

Some PC Cards or their functions may not be compatible with your computer.

You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.

To insert a PC Card

1 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out. 2 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card slot protector pops out. 3 Gently take hold of the protector and pull it out of the slot. 4 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing toward you. 5 Gently push the PC Card into the slot.

The PC Card is automatically detected by your system. The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears on the taskbar.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Insert the PC Card slot protector to protect against debris entering the slot when not using a PC Card. Before moving your computer, make sure to insert the PC Card slot protector into the slot.

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✍

Some devices may not function properly if you continually switch to Normal mode from Standby mode or Hibernate mode. For some PC Cards, if you alternate between Normal mode and Standby or Hibernate mode while the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not recognized. Restart your system to correct the problem. Restarting will restore the original state of your computer.

While the card is inserted, your computer may not enter Hibernate power management mode. It may enter Standby mode. We recommend that you remove the card before the computer enters Hibernate mode.

Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.

If an "!" mark appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties window, remove the software driver and then reinstall it.

Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a PC Card, check that you are inserting the PC Card in the correct direction. See the manual that came with your PC Card for more information.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Removing a PC Card

Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not work properly.

To remove a PC Card

✍

To remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 6.

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.

The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.

2 Select the hardware you want to unplug. 3 Click Stop.

The Stop a Hardware Device window appears.

4 Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system. 5 Click OK.

A window appears, explaining that it is safe to remove the device.

6 Click Close. 7 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out. 8 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card pops out. 9 Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot. 10 If the PC Card release button is still out, push it back in.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the ExpressCard Module

Your computer is equipped with either a Universal ExpressCard slot* or an ExpressCard™/34 slot* for transferring data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices. The former

™

ExpressCard ExpressCard

/34 (34 mm wide) or ExpressCard™/54 (54 mm wide) module* as shown below; and the latter, an

™

/34 module* only.

can accommodate either an

❑ ExpressCard™/34 module

❑ ExpressCard™/54 module

Your computer is equipped with a Universal ExpressCard slot

* Hereinafter, referred to as the ExpressCard slot and the ExpressCard module.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Inserting an ExpressCard Module

Your computer is delivered with a slot protector in the ExpressCard slot. Remove the slot protector before you use the slot for the first time.

Use care when inserting or removing the ExpressCard module from the slot. Do not force it in or out of the slot.

✍

You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing the ExpressCard module.

To insert an ExpressCard module

1 Push the ExpressCard slot protector to pop it out. 2 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard slot protector and pull it out of the slot. 3 Hold the ExpressCard module with the arrow facing toward you and pointing toward the ExpressCard slot. 4 Carefully slide the ExpressCard module (1) into the slot until it clicks into place.

Do not force it into the slot.

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Insert the ExpressCard slot protector to protect against debris entering the slot when not using an ExpressCard module. Before moving your computer, make sure to insert the ExpressCard slot protector into the slot.

✍

If the module or adapter does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.

Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the ExpressCard module manufacturer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Removing an ExpressCard Module

Follow the steps below to remove the ExpressCard module while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not work properly.

To remove an ExpressCard module

✍

To remove an ExpressCard module when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 6.

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.

The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.

2 Select the hardware you want to unplug. 3 Click Stop.

The Stop a Hardware Device window appears.

4 Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system. 5 Click OK.

A window appears, explaining that it is safe to remove the device.

6 Click Close. 7 Push in the ExpressCard module toward the computer to pop it out. 8 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard module and pull it out of the slot.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Memory Stick Media

Your computer supports the Memory Stick media. Memory Stick media is a compact, portable, and versatile IC recording media especially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products, such as digital cameras, mobile phones and other devices. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage.

For the latest information on Memory Stick media, visit the Sony online support Web site at http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/ or at http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/

Your computer has been tested and found compatible with the Sony branded Memory Stick media with capacity of up to 4 GB that are available as of May 2006. However, not all Memory Stick media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

Inserting a Memory Stick media with multiple conversion adapters is not guaranteed of compatibility.

MagicGate is the general name of the copyright protection technology developed by Sony. Use a Memory Stick media with the MagicGate logo to use this feature.

for customers in USA, at http://www.sony.ca/support for customers in Canada,

for customers in Latin American countries or areas.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Write-protecting a Memory Stick Media

Some versions of Memory Stick media are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting.

Move the tab horizontally or vertically be saved on the Memory Stick media. When the erasure prevention switch is on, data can be read from but not saved on the Memory Stick media.

Be sure to use a fine-tipped object to move the tab on the Memory Stick Duo media.

* Some versions of Memory Stick media do not have an erasure prevention switch.

to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Inserting a Memory Stick Media

To insert a Memory Stick media

1 Locate the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot (page 14). 2 Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing toward the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot. 3 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place.

The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and appears in your My Computer window as a local drive, under the appropriate letter (depending on the configuration of the computer).

Be sure to hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction as you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging your computer or the Memory Stick media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot if you cannot insert it smoothly.

Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the slot. Inserting the media improperly may damage your computer.

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✍

Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and is equipped with the Memory Stick PRO/Duo slot that is compatible with both standard- and duo-size media. For more information on the Memory Stick Duo media, visit the Memory Stick web site at http://www.memorystick.com/en/

You can insert a Memory Stick Duo media directly into the slot.

To view the contents of the Memory Stick media

1 Click Start and then My Computer to open the My Computer window.

2 Double-click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the Memory Stick media.

To format a Memory Stick media

Use the Memory Stick Formatter software. See the help file on the Memory Stick Formatter software for details.

Formatting the Memory Stick media erases the entire data on the media. Avoid accidental erasure of your valuable data.

Do not remove the Memory Stick media from the slot while formatting the media. This could cause a malfunction.

Be sure to use the preinstalled Memory Stick Formatter software to format a Memory Stick media. In case the media is formatted with the formatting function of the Windows operating system, the media cannot be recognized by other Memory Stick devices.

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Removing a Memory Stick Media

To remove a Memory Stick media

1 Check that the Media Access indicator is off. 2 Push the Memory Stick media in toward the computer.

The Memory Stick media ejects.

3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot.

Always remove the Memory Stick media gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly.

Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Media Access indicator is turned on. If you do, you may lose data. Large volumes of data may take time to load, so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Stick media.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Other Memory Cards

In addition to the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot, your computer is equipped with an SD memory card slot to accommodate other memory cards. You can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices.

Before You Use Memory Cards

The SD memory card slot on your computer supports the following memory cards:

❑ MultiMediaCard (MMC) ❑ Secure Digital (SD)

For the latest information on compatible memory cards, visit the Sony online support Web site regularly.

Always insert the correct memory card into the SD memory card slot.

SDHC memory cards are not supported.

Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adapter of a different type into the slot. An incompatible memory card or memory card adapter may be difficult to remove from the slot and can cause damage to your computer.

Use care when inserting or removing a memory card from the slot. Do not force the memory card in or out of the slot.

The SD memory card slot on your computer does not support the high-speed data transfer feature of the SD memory card.

Your computer has been tested and found compatible only with major memory card media available as of May 2006. However, not all memory card media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

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Inserting a Memory Card

To insert a memory card

1 Locate the SD memory card slot (page 14). 2 Hold the memory card with the arrow pointing toward the memory card slot.

3 Carefully slide the memory card into the slot until it clicks into place.

Do not force the card into the slot.

Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

If the memory card does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.

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Removing a Memory Card

Do not remove a memory card while the Media Access indicator light is on. The card or its data may become damaged.

To remove a memory card

1 Check that the Media Access indicator is off. 2 Firmly grasp the extended part of the memory card. 3 Carefully pull it out of the slot.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Internet

Setting Up a Dial-up Internet Connection

Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line with a telephone cable (may not supplied). Once you have set up your telephone cable connection, you're ready to connect to the Internet.

To connect a telephone cable

1 Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the modem port on the computer. 2 Plug the other end into the wall jack (2).

✍

Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX). Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem.

If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter, the modem or connected device may not work properly.

To set up a dial-up connection to the Internet

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and click New Connection Wizard.

The New Connection Wizard appears.

2 Click Next. If the Location Information window appears, follow the on-screen instructions. 3 If it is not already selected, click to select Connect to the Internet, and click Next. 4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

Using the Sony Wireless LAN (WLAN), all your digital devices with built-in WLAN functionality communicate freely with each other through a powerful network. A WLAN is a network in which a user can connect to a local area network (LAN) through a wireless (radio) connection. So there is no need anymore to pull cables or wires through walls and ceilings.

You can communicate without an access point, which means that you can communicate between a limited number of computers (ad-hoc). Or you can communicate through an access point, which allows you to create a full infrastructure network (infrastructure).

✍

In some countries, using WLAN products may be restricted by the local regulations (e.g. limited number of channels). Therefore, before activating the WLAN functionality, read the Safety Information carefully.

WLAN uses the IEEE 802.11b/g standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes the encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi

Alliance, both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based, interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi-Fi networks. WPA has been designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) in addition to user authentication using 802.1X and EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol). Data encryption protects the vulnerable wireless link between clients and access points. Besides that, there are other typical LAN security mechanisms to ensure privacy, such as: password protection, end-to-end encryption, virtual private networks, and authentication. WPA2, the second generation of WPA, provides stronger data protection and network access control and is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b,

802.11a, and 802.11g, multi-band and multi-mode. In addition, based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible with WPA.

Wireless LAN devices using the IEEE 802.11a standard and the ones using the IEEE 802.11b or g standard cannot communicate because the frequencies are different.

IEEE 802.11b: The standard speed is 11 Mbps, or about 30 to 100 times faster than a standard dial up.

IEEE 802.11a/g: The standard speed is 54 Mbps, or about 5 times faster than a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE 802.11b standard.

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The 2.4 GHz bandwidth used by wireless LAN compatible devices is also used by other various devices. Although technologies to minimize interference from other devices that use the same bandwidth are employed on wireless LAN compatible devices, such interference may cause lower communication

speed, narrower communication range, or broken wireless connections.

The communication speed varies depending on the distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the device configuration, the radio conditions, and the software in use. In addition, communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions.

The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the radio conditions, the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, and the software in use.

Deploying IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference. Taking this into consideration, the IEEE 802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with

IEEE 802.11b products. When the communication speed is not as fast as expected, changing the wireless channel on the access point may increase the communication speed.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Communicating without an Access Point (Ad-hoc)

An ad-hoc network is a network in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other central controller or access point. Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network. You can set up an ad-hoc network easily at home.

❑ If the Wireless connection is initiated by the VAIO computer, channel 11 will be selected. ❑ If the Wireless connection is initiated by peer Wireless LAN equipment, the Wireless LAN communication will make use

of the channel selected by the peer Wireless LAN equipment.

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To communicate without an access point (ad-hoc)

1 Turn on the WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

2 Click Start and then Control Panel. 3 Click Network and Internet Connections. 4 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.

5 Right-click Wireless Network Connection, then click Properties.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.

6 Select the Wireless Networks tab. 7 Click the Add… button.

The Wireless network properties window appears.

8 Enter a network name (SSID)

You can choose a 32-digit alphanumeric name.

9 Select Open from the Network Authentication drop-down box. 10 Select WEP from the Data Encryption drop-down box. 11 Deselect the The key is provided for me automatically option button.

Some information becomes visible.

12 Enter the network key

The network key should be 5 or 13 alphanumeric characters or 10 or 26 hexadecimal whichever you want.

13 Enter exactly the same network key again for confirmation.

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characters long. You can choose

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14 Select the check box This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network; wireless access points are not used at the

bottom of the window.

15 Click OK.

Your network name appears in the Preferred networks.

16 Click Advanced.

The Advanced window appears.

17 Select the Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only option button. 18 Click Close. 19 Click OK.

The computer is ready to communicate with another computer.

If you want to communicate between two or more computers, you need to configure all these computers in the exact same way. This means that you need to enter the same network name and the same network key on all computers as on the first computer you configure.

Hexadecimal: a number representation using the digits 0-9, with their usual meaning, and the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent hexadecimal digits with values of (decimal) 10 to 15.

✍

An ad-hoc network does not support WPA.

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To disconnect from a computer-to-computer (ad-hoc) network

1 Click Start and then Control Panel. 2 Click Network and Internet Connections. 3 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.

4 In the right panel under LAN or High-Speed Internet, right-click Wireless Network Connection. 5 Click Properties.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.

6 On the Wireless Networks tab, click Advanced.

The Advanced window appears.

7 Click to select Any available network (access point preferred), and click Close. 8 Click OK. 9 Close the Network Connections window. 10 Turn off the WIRELESS LAN switch.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Communicating with an Access Point (Infrastructure)

An infrastructure network is a network that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an access point, for example the Sony Access Point. The access point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a central controller for the Wireless LAN. The access point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range.

The access point will select which channel to use on an infrastructure network.

For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the access point, see the manual that came with your access point.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect to a wireless network

1 Make sure an access point is set up.

See the manual that came with your access point for more information.

2 Turn on the WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

3 Click Start and then Control Panel. 4 Click Network and Internet Connections. 5 Click Network Connections. 6 In the right panel under LAN or High-Speed Internet, double-click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection window appears.

7 Follow the on-screen instructions.

To connect to a wireless network (models with the Wireless Setup Utility software only)

Use the Wireless Setup Utility software to guide you through the set up process and provide you with more detailed information about wireless connections.

1 Make sure an access point is set up.

See the manual that came with your access point for more information.

2 Turn on the WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

3 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click Wireless Setup Utility.

The Wireless Setup Utility appears.

4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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To disconnect from a wireless network

Turn off the WIRELESS LAN switch.

Turning off the wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents, files, or resources may result in data loss.

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For WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK authentication, you must enter a network key of 8 to 64 alphanumeric characters long.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by using the various ports on the computer.

❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 88) ❑ Connecting a Printer (page 90) ❑ Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 91) ❑ Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 93)

Using Peripheral Devices

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Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

Connecting a USB Floppy Disk Drive

You can purchase a USB floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer.

To connect a USB floppy disk drive

1 Choose the USB port (1) you prefer to use. 2 Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable (2) into the USB port.

Your USB floppy disk drive (3) is now ready for use.

When using a USB floppy disk drive, do not apply force on the USB port. This may cause a malfunction.

Using Peripheral Devices

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Using Peripheral Devices

Disconnecting a USB floppy disk drive

You can disconnect a USB floppy disk drive when your computer is on or off. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.

If the computer is off, you can unplug the USB cable directly from the computer.

To disconnect a USB floppy disk drive

1 Close all programs accessing the floppy disk drive. 2 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.

The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.

3 Select the floppy disk drive you want to unplug. 4 Click Stop.

The Stop a Hardware device window appears.

5 Make sure the floppy disk drive is selected, and click OK.

A message appears stating it is now safe to remove the hardware device.

6 Click Close to close the Safely Remove Hardware window. 7 Disconnect the floppy disk drive from the computer.

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Printer

You can connect a Windows-compatible printer to your computer to print documents.

Connecting a Printer Using the USB Port

You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to the computer.

To connect a printer using the USB port

1 Plug the power cord (1) of your printer into an AC outlet.

2 Choose the USB port (3) you prefer to use. 3 Plug one end of a USB printer cable (2) (not supplied) into the USB port and the other end to your printer.

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting an i.LINK Device

Notes on connecting i.LINK devices

❑ Your computer is equipped with an i.LINK port, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK device such as a digital video

camcorder or to connect two VAIO computers in order to copy, delete or edit files.

❑ The i.LINK port on your computer does not supply power to external devices generally powered by i.LINK ports. ❑ The i.LINK port supports transfer rates up to 400 Mbps; however, the actual transfer rate depends on the transfer rate of

the external device.

❑ i.LINK cables compatible with your computer include cables with the following part numbers:

VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5 meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end) and VMC-IL4408 Series (a 0.8 meter cable with a 4pin connector at each end).

❑ The optional i.LINK cables may not be available, depending on the country or area of your residency. ❑ An i.LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed. ❑ The i.LINK connection varies depending on the software applications, operating system, and i.LINK-compatible devices

you use. See the manual that came with your software for more information.

❑ Check the working conditions and OS compatibility of i.LINK-compatible PC peripherals (for example, an HDD or a CD-

RW drive) before you connect them to your computer.

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Digital Video Camcorder

To connect a digital video camcorder

1 Plug one end of an i.LINK cable (1) (not supplied) into the i.LINK port (2) on the computer and the other end into the DV

In/Out ports (3) on the digital video camcorder.

2 Launch the DVgate Plus software.

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On Sony digital video cameras, ports labeled DV Out, DV In/Out, or i.LINK are i.LINK-compatible.

The Sony digital video camcorder shown here is an example; your digital video camcorder may need to be connected differently.

You cannot access the pictures stored on a Memory Stick media when using an i.LINK connection.

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting to a Network (LAN)

You can connect your computer to 100BASE-TX/10BASE-T-type networks with an Ethernet network cable. Connect one end of a network cable (not supplied) to the network (Ethernet) port on the computer and the other end to your network. For detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network administrator.

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Your computer can be connected to the network with the default settings.

Telephone lines cannot be connected to the network (LAN) connector on your computer. If the network (LAN) connector is connected to the telephone lines mentioned below, high electric current to the connector may cause damage, overheating, or fire.

- Home (intercom speakerphone) or business-use telephone lines (multi-line business telephone)

- Public telephone subscriber line

- PBX (private branch exchange)

Do not plug a telephone cable into the network port.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

This section briefly describes how to change the main settings of your computer. Among other things, you will learn how to use and customize the look of your Sony software and utilities, etc.

❑ Setting the Password (page 95) ❑ Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central (page 98) ❑ Using the Power Saving Modes (page 99)

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Setting the Password

Use one of the BIOS functions to set the password. Once you have set the password, you will have to enter the password after the VAIO logo appears to start your computer.

The power-on password will allow you to protect your computer from unauthorized access.

Adding the Power-on Password

The power-on password is provided to protect your computer from unauthorized access. There are two types of the power-on password: machine password and user password. The machine password is provided

for users with administrator rights on the computer to change all the setup options on the BIOS setup screen, as well as to start the computer. The user password is provided for other ordinary users to allow for changing some of the BIOS setup options, as well as starting the computer. To set the user password, you must first set the machine password.

Once you have set the power-on password, you cannot start your computer without entering the password. Make sure not to forget the password. Write down your password and keep it safe and private from other people.

If you forget the power-on password and need assistance to reset it, a password reset fee will be charged, and your computer may need to be sent in for depot service for password reset.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

To add the power-on password

1 Turn on the computer. 2 Press the F2 key when the VAIO logo appears.

The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo appears.

3 Press the < or , key to select Security to display the Security tab, select Set Machine Password, and then press the

Enter key.

4 On the password entry screen, enter the password twice and press the Enter key.

The password can be up to 32 alphanumeric characters (including spaces) long.

5 At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.

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The following is to configure your computer to prompt password entry when you turn it on or display the BIOS setup screen.

6 Select Password when Power ON under Security.

Press the space bar to change the setting from Disabled to Enabled.

7 Press the < or , key to select Exit, select Exit (Save Changes) or Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

On the Setup Confirmation screen, make sure that Yes is selected and then press the Enter key.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Changing/Removing the Power-on Password

To change or remove the power-on password

1 Turn on the computer. 2 Press the F2 key when the VAIO logo appears.

The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo appears.

3 Enter the current password for Enter Password and press the Enter key. 4 Press the < or , key to select Security to display the Security tab, select Set Machine Password, and then press the

Enter key.

5 On the password entry screen, enter the current password once and a new password twice, and then press the Enter key.

To remove the password, leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key. When confirmation to save the changes is prompted, press the Enter key.

6 Press the < or , key to select Exit, select Exit (Save Changes) or Exit Setup, and then press the Enter key.

On the Setup Confirmation screen, confirm that Yes is selected and then press the Enter key.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central

The VAIO Central utility allows you to consult system information and specify preferences for system behavior.

To use VAIO Central

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Central.

The VAIO Central window appears.

2 Select the desired control item and change the settings. 3 Once finished, click OK.

The setting of the desired item has been changed.

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Some of the control items will not be visible if you open VAIO Central as a limited user.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Using the Power Saving Modes

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.

To set the timer for the computer to automatically enter Standby or Hibernate mode after a certain period of time, click Start and Control Panel. Click Performance and Maintenance and Power Options, and then change the settings under Power Schemes.

Using Normal Mode

This is the normal state of the computer when it is in use. The green power indicator light is on in this mode. To save power while not working, you can turn off a specific device such as the LCD screen or the hard disk.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Using Standby Mode

Standby mode turns off the LCD screen and places the hard disk and the CPU into a low power consumption mode. The orange power light is on in this mode.

To activate Standby mode

1 Click Start and then Turn Off Computer. 2 Click Stand By.

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Alternatively, you can press the Standby button on the wireless keyboard or the remote commander to place your computer into Standby mode.

To return to Normal mode

Press the power button on your computer or the Standby button on the remote commander.

If you press the power button for more than four seconds, your computer will turn off automatically. You will lose any unsaved data.

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In Standby mode, inserting a disc will automatically launch Windows and may display a window for selecting your preferred software program to launch or may automatically launch a preinstalled CD/DVD program.

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Your computer comes out of Standby mode quicker than out of Hibernate mode.

Standby mode uses more power than Hibernate mode.

If the computer is not used for more than 25 minutes, it will enter Standby mode. To avoid this, you can change the Standby mode settings.