Sony F200 Service Manual

Sony Notebook Computer

User Guide

Notice to Users

© 1999 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 TO USE THEREOF.

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.

Sony, DVgate, i.LINKTM, Mavica, PictureGear, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. Windows and the Windows 98 logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

Intel, MMX, Celeron and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation.

All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Safety Information

Owner’s Record

The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony Notebook Computer. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call VAIO-Link.

Serial number:________________________

Model number:

PCG-F250 / PCG-F270 / PCG-F290

WARNING

Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee.

To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation.

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose your Sony Notebook Computer to rain or moisture.

Never install modem or telephone wiring during a lightning storm.

Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations

Never touch uninsulated telephone wire or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected at the network interface.

Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.

Avoid using the modem during an electrical storm.

Do not use the modem or a telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.

Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC-adapter.

Please make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Regulatory Information

This product conforms to the following European Directives: 73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive) 89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC (EMC Directives)

93/68/EEC (CE Marking Directive)

This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 50082-1 for use in following areas: residential, commercial and light-industrial.

This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 metres (9.8 feet)

According to the model:

The DVD-ROM / CD-ROM is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.

CLASS 1

LASER PRODUCT

TO EN 60825-1

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

Energy Star is an U.S. registered mark.

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY

!Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly.

!Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions (see below).

!The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not disassemble, heat above 100°C (212°F) or incenerate. Dispose of used battery promptly.

!Keep away from children.

!Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For changing this battery, please contact VAIO Link.

Disposal of Lithium ion batteries

Dispose of properly at end-of-life.

In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.

Please use the public collection system.

4

Contents

Welcome
Unpacking Your Notebook Computer................................................	9
Ergonomic Considerations..................................................................	10
Using Your Notebook
Computer
Locating the Controls and Connectors..............................................	13
Connecting a Power Source ................................................................	17
Starting Your Computer......................................................................	22
Shutting Down Your Computer.........................................................	23
Registering Windows® 98...................................................................	24
Registering Your Computer................................................................	25
Using the Keyboard .............................................................................	26
Using the Floppy Disk Drive ..............................................................	33
Using the DVD-ROM / CD-ROM Drive ..........................................	35
Using PC Cards.....................................................................................	37
Using the Programmable Power Keys (PPK)...................................	40
Using Smart Connect ...........................................................................	42
Using Infrared Communication Devices ..........................................	43
Using Power Saving Modes................................................................	45
Using a Second Battery Pack ..............................................................	47
Using the Weight Saver .......................................................................	49
Connecting peripheral devices
PC card modem ....................................................................................	52
Activating the functionnality of your modem PC Card .................	54

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Port Replicator.......................................................................................	56
Printer .....................................................................................................	59
External Display....................................................................................	60
Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device ......................................	63
To use Memory Sticks ..........................................................................	65
Digital Video Camera Recorder..........................................................	66
MiniDisc® deck with MD Player........................................................	67
External Mouse or Keyboard ..............................................................	69
External Speakers..................................................................................	70
External Microphone............................................................................	71
Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device .....................................................	72
Getting Help
About Sony’s Support Options...........................................................	73
Troubleshooting...................................................................................	74
Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs............................................	82
Notes on Use ......................................................................	85
Specifications .....................................................................	91
Index...................................................................................	93

6

Welcome

Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO Notebook Computer. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing, and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.

Here are just some of the features your Sony Notebook Computer has to offer (read the details in the Specifications chapter of this guide).

Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast Intel® processor, a fast CD-ROM drive or a DVD-ROM drive (according to the model), and a PC card modem (according to the model).

Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power.

Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.

Communications - Access popular online services, send and receive e-mails, browse the Internet, and use the dialing and fax features.

Excellent customer support - If you have any problem with your computer, you can contact VAIO-Link by telephone, fax or e-mail (see your Customer Service Guide for phone numbers and addresses). Before calling VAIO-Link, you may try to solve the problem by reading your User Guide (troubleshooting chapter) or the manuals and Help files of the peripherals or software.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

About the User Guides

This User Guide :

Using Your VAIO Notebook Computer shows you how to use the standard components of your system.

Connecting Peripheral Devices explains how you can add functionality by connecting various peripherals.

Getting Help explains the support options available to you, and offers basic troubleshooting tips.

Notes on Use provides facts and advice about using your notebook computer.

Specifications of your computer, drivers and accessories.

Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications:

About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installled on your system

Customizing your notebook explains you how to set your system and power management with Sony Notebook Setup, PPK Setup,

PowerPanel, BatteryScope...

Learn how to set your display with NeoMagic® and enjoy the Dual Screen Display option.

On-line User Guides are included with your computer as electronic documents.

8

Welcome

Unpacking Your Notebook Computer

Remove the following hardware items from the box:

Main unit	Rechargeable	Floppy disk drive
	battery pack	(installed at factory)	Weight Saver

Product Recovery	User manuals
CD-ROM

DVD- / CD-ROM drive (installed)

AC adapter

Power cord

Phone cable*

PC card modem*

Phone plug*

*Depending on the type of Sony Notebook you purchased, the PC card modem (and accessories) may be optional. However, you need to have these peripherals to enjoy some of the features described in this manual.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Ergonomic Considerations

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

Computer positioned directly in front of you

Arms at desk level

Wrists relaxed and flat

Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you as you work. Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Take breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain 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 backward.

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 setting of the display also.

10

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.

Placement of 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.

Tilt stands – You use the tilt stands to place the computer at an angle that allows comfortable typing.

11

Using Your Notebook

Computer

This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal devices, such as the touchpad, the disk drives, the battery...

Locating the Controls and Connectors

Front

1	LCD screen (page 30)		7	Battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 29)
	Speakers (page 30)
2			8	Hard disk drive indicator (page 29)
3	Keyboard (page 26)		9	Num Lock indicator (page	29)
	Touchpad (page 32)
4			10	Caps Lock indicator (page	29)
5	Left/right buttons (page 32)		11	Scroll Lock indicator (page	29)
6	Power indicator (page 29)

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Left

1	1Power switch (page 22)											5				S200 i.LINKTM connector (page 66)
2	Infrared port (page 43)											6			PC card slots (page 37)
3	m Microphone connector (page 71)											7			Battery bay (page 18)
4	i Headphone connector

AC adapter mains connector and power cord: hazardous voltage, according to EN 60950.

All other connectors for this notebook are SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage), according to EN 60950.

14

Using Your Notebook Computer

Right

1	PPK buttons (page 40)	3	Multi-purpose bay (pages 33, 35)
2	DVD-ROM / CD-ROM drive (page 35)	4	Internal microphone

Back

cover

1	/					Mouse/Keyboard connector (page 69)	4	a Monitor connector (page 60)
2				Serial connector (page 63)			5			USB connector (page 72)
3			Printer (page 59)				6			DC In (page 17)

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Bottom

1	Port replicator connector cover	3	Tilt stands

2Release lever

There is a ventilation slot located near the USB connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot when your computer is on.

16

Using Your Notebook Computer

Connecting a Power Source

You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.

Using the AC Adapter

1Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on the computer.

2Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter.

3Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.

	Notebook computer	3
	1
	AC adapter
	(supplied)	Power cord (supplied)
DC in	2	Hazardous Voltage
		according to EN 60950

SELV according to EN 60950

Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter.

To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter. Please make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Using Battery Power

You can use one or two battery packs as a source of power. You can insert the second battery pack into the multi-purpose bay on the right side of the computer. (See “ Using a Second Battery Pack” on page 47.). Additional battery packs are available as a separate option.

The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase. Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.

To insert the battery pack

1 Open the cover of the battery bay.

2Insert the battery pack into the battery bay on the left side of the computer.

Battery pack (supplied)

Label side facing down

3 Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.

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Using Your Notebook Computer

To charge the battery pack

1

2

Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

Insert the battery pack.

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85 percent full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes approximately two hours. To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an additional hour.

A fully charged battery pack supplies power for approximately 2 to 3 hours. The time varies according to your system configuration. See your Software guide,in “Displaying Battery Information" for information on checking the battery life.

There are two battery indicator lights on the computer:

Battery indicators

	Secondary battery pack
	(not supplied)
	Battery pack (supplied)
Battery Indicator	Meaning
	Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay

1							on the left side of the computer.
					2		Indicates the status of the battery pack in the multi-
							purpose bay on the right side of the computer.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Battery Indicator	Meaning
Light Status
On	The computer is using battery power.
Single blink	The battery is running out of power.
Double blink	The battery is charging.
Off	The computer is using AC power.

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter system hibernation mode 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 system suspend or system hibernation.

When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink. To determine the time the battery lasts, see your Software guide, in "Displaying Battery information".

See “Using a second battery pack” for information on installing and charging a battery pack in the multi-purpose bay.

Keep the battery pack in the 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 to below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery.

You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPanel utility. See your Software guide, in “Controlling Power Management".

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

The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts flashing.

20

Using Your Notebook Computer

To remove the battery pack

1

2

Open the cover of the battery bay.

Pull out the battery pack.

3Close the cover of the battery bay.

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

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Starting Your Computer

1Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover.

LCD lock lever

2Slide the power switch on the left side toward the front of the computer until the green power indicator light turns on.

Power indicator

Power switch

If you hold the power switch in the on position for more than four seconds, the computer turns off.

3If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display with Fn+F5. To increase the brightness, use the up or right arrow keys. To decrease use the down or left arrow keys.

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Using Your Notebook Computer

Shutting Down Your Computer

! To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer.

1Click the Start button on the Windows® 98 taskbar.

2Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.

3Select Shut down.

4Click OK.

Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.

5Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator (green) turns off.

6Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.

If you are unable to shut down your computer using the steps described previously, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys at the same time to restart the computer. If you are unable to restart the computer in this way, you can slide the power switch forward and hold for four seconds. This operation may result in data loss.

During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend mode. See your Software guide, in "Controlling Power Management".

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Registering Windows® 98

You must register Windows® 98 before you can use the computer.

The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few steps to register and configure the Windows® 98 software that is already installed on your computer.

The on-screen instructions guide you through the registration and configuration process. The following is an overview of the process.

1Gathering information:

Enter your name.

Read and accept the License Agreement.

Enter your Certificate of Authenticity number located on the cover of the Microsoft Windows® 98 Getting Started manual.

2Windows® 98 setup:

Click the Finish button on the Windows® 98 Setup Wizard screen.

3Selecting your computer settings:

If necessary, change the Time Zone, Date and Time on the Date/ Time Properties screen.

4Learning about Windows® 98:

If you want, take the tour of Windows® 98.

24

Using Your Notebook Computer

Registering Your Computer

You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive the following benefits by registering your computer with Sony:

VAIO-Link – You can contact VAIO-Link by telephone, fax or e-mail (see your Customer Service Guide for phone numbers).

Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee Card for the terms and conditions and please refer to your Customer Service Guide for more information.

Follow these steps to use the Sony Notebook Computer’s online registration service.

You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online registration service. See “Connecting to a phone line”.

1Enter the information requested in the online registration form.

2Click the Register now button and complete the form.

Click the Send Directly Button to register your computer, via modem to modem connection. Your computer automatically transfers your registration information, using your PC Card modem and a preset phone number.

Click Send via Internet if you chose to send your information via the WWW.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform specific notebook computer-related tasks.

Escape Key

Function keys

Print Screen key

Correction keys

Shift key

Navigation

keys

Ctrl key

Applications key

Fn key

Alt key

Numeric keypad area

Windows 98 key

Keys

Descriptions

Numeric keypad

Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the

area

numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform

mathematical calculations such as addition and subtrac

tion. Note that you must press the Num Lock key to acti

vate the numeric keypad. (When you do so, the Num

Lock light will be on.)

Navigation keys

Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the

screen.

Correction keys

The Insert, Back Space, and Delete keys enable you to

make corrections in your documents.

Function keys

The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard

are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in

many applications, F1 is the Help key. The task associ

ated with each function key may vary from one applica

tion to the next.

Escape key

The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.

26

				Using Your Notebook Computer
Keys				Descriptions
Print Screen key				The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the
				screen and places it in the Windows Clipboard. You can
				then paste the screen shot into a document and print it.
Operator keys				Several keys are always used with at least one other key:
				Ctrl, Alt, and Shift. When held down with another key,
				the Ctrl (Control) and Alt (Alternate) keys offer another
				way to give commands. For example, in many applica
				tions, instead of choosing the Save command from a
				menu, you can hold down Ctrl and press S (referred to as
				Ctrl+S). The Shift key is used to produce capital letters or
				special symbols such as @ and $.
Windows® 98 key				The key with the Windows® logo displays the Windows®
				98 Start menu; it’s the equivalent of clicking the Start
				button on the task bar. See "Combinations and functions
				with the Windows® 98 key".
Fn key				The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to
				issue commands. See “Combinations and functions with
				the Fn key”.
Applications key				The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of con
				text-sensitive choices; pressing this key is the equivalent
				of clicking the right mouse button.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Windows® 98 Key

Combinations						Functions
	+ F1					Displays Windows Help
	+ Tab					Switches the selected button on the taskbar.
	+ E					Displays Windows Explorer.
	+ F					Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find
						a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Find
						and then Files or Folders from the Start menu.
	+ Ctrl + F					Displays the Windows Find: Computer window
						where you can locate other computers. This is the
						equivalent of selecting Find and then Computer from
						the Start menu.
	+ M					Minimizes all displayed windows.
Shift +					+ M	Returns all minimized windows to their previous
						size.
	+ R					Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of
						selecting Run from the Start menu.
Fn +				+ Insert		Displays the Properties window. This is the
						equivalent of double-clicking the System icon in the
						Control Panel.

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Using Your Notebook Computer

Indicators

Indicator			Functions
Power			Power on: lights green.
			System Idle mode: lights amber.
			System suspend mode: flashes amber.
Battery 1			Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery
1			bay on the left side of the computer.
Battery 2			Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the multi-
2			purpose bay on the right side of the computer.
Hard disk			Lights when data is read from or written to the hard
			drive. Do not enter System Suspend mode or turn off the
			computer when this indicator light is on.
Light			On	Off
Num Lock			Turns on when the	Turns off when the
			number keys area in	alphanumeric character
			the numeric keypad	keys in the key pad area
			are active.	are active.
Caps Lock			Turns on when the	Turns off when letters
			letters appear in	appear in lower case as
			uppercase as you type.	you type (unless you
			The Shift key lowers	hold down the Shift key).
			the case of typed
			letters when Caps
			Lock is on.

Scroll Lock	Turns on when the
	screen scrolls dif
	ferently. (Exactly how
	it scrolls depends on
	the specific
	application. It has no
	effect in many
	applications.)

Turns off when information moves across the display normally.

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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Combinations/Feature

Functions

Fn+

(ESC)

Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a

System Suspend

power management state. To return the system to

the active state, press any key.

Fn+ t (F2)

Displays the power status, as in the example below:

Display power status

Using Ac power

Charging the

battery

Fn+

(F3)

Toggles the built-in speaker off and on.

Speaker switch

Fn+ 2 (F4)

Adjusts the built-in speakers volume.

Speaker volume

To increase volume, press Fn+F4, then V or b

To decrease volume, press Fn+F4, then v or B

Fn+ 8 (F5)

Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

Brightness control

To increase light intensity, press Fn+F5, then V or b

To decrease light intensity, press Fn+F5, then v or B

Fn+ 6 (F6)

Only applicable for models equipped with an HPA

Contrast control

display:

To increase contrast, press Fn+F6, then V or b

To decrease contrast, press Fn+F6, then v or B

Fn+

LCD

/

(F7)

Toggles through the LCD, external display

Switch to the

(connected to the Monitor connector) and both LCD

external display

and external display.

.

Only LCD

LCD and external display

Only external display

Fn+

LCD

/

(F8)

Not available on this model.

Fn+

(F12)

Provides for the lowest level of power consumption.

System Hibernation

When you execute this command, the state of the

system and of the peripheral devices are written to

the hard disk and the system power is turned off.

Fn+S

Puts the system into Idle mode, a power

System Idle

management state. To return to the active state,

press any key.

Fn+D

Turns off the LCD in order to save power.

Video standby

Fn+E

Ejects the DVD-ROM / CD-ROM tray.

Eject DVD- / CD-ROM

30