Sony PCG4H2L Users Manual

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User Guide

Please see "Users Manual 2.pdf" for FCC manual statements.Please see "Users Manual 2.pdf" for FCC manual statements.

Please see "Users Manual 2.pdf" for FCC manual statements.

Personal Computer

VGN-TX800 Series

Contents

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

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................6

Ergonomic Considerations...........................................................................................................................................8

Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................10

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................11

About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................18

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................20

Using the Battery Pack ..............................................................................................................................................21

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................25

Using Your VAIO Computer .............................................................................................................................................26

Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................27

Using the Touch Pad .................................................................................................................................................29

Using Special-function Buttons ..................................................................................................................................30

Using the Optical Disc Drive ......................................................................................................................................32

Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................42

Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................45

Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................49

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................51

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................52

Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................61

Using Peripheral Devices .................................................................................................................................................66

Connecting a Port Replicator .....................................................................................................................................67

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................................................................................................71

Connecting an External Display.................................................................................................................................72

Selecting Display Modes............................................................................................................................................75

Using the Multiple Monitors Function.........................................................................................................................76

Connecting an External Microphone..........................................................................................................................78

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device......................................................................................................79

Connecting a Printer ..................................................................................................................................................82

Connecting an i.LINK Device .....................................................................................................................................83

Connecting to a Network (LAN) .................................................................................................................................85

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ..................................................................................................................................86

Setting the Password .................................................................................................................................................87

Using Fingerprint Authentication................................................................................................................................96

Using Trusted Platform Module (TPM).....................................................................................................................113

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central .........................................................................................................118

Using the Power Saving Modes...............................................................................................................................119

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ....................................................................................................124

Changing the Performance Setting..........................................................................................................................127

Protecting the Hard Disk ..........................................................................................................................................128

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................129

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................130

Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................136

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................137

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................138

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................139

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................141

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................142

On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................143

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................144

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................144

On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................145

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................146

Computer .................................................................................................................................................................148

System Security .......................................................................................................................................................155

Battery......................................................................................................................................................................157

Internet.....................................................................................................................................................................159

Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................161

Bluetooth Technology ..............................................................................................................................................164

CDs and DVDs.........................................................................................................................................................168

Display .....................................................................................................................................................................173

Printing.....................................................................................................................................................................175

Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................176

Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................177

Speakers..................................................................................................................................................................178

Touch Pad................................................................................................................................................................179

Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................180

Floppy Disks ............................................................................................................................................................181

PC Cards .................................................................................................................................................................182

Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................183

Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................184

Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................185

Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................186

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................186

Program Support Information...................................................................................................................................189

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. ❑ Instant Mode — Provides a guide to use Instant Mode.

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/ 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.

for customers in USA,

Before Use

Ergonomic Considerations

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

❑ Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your

wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touch pad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.

❑ Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the

floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.

Before Use

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

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

❑ 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.

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

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

Getting Started

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

Before starting your computer for the first time, do not connect any new hardware that did not normally 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, external hard disk drive, scanner, and so on) at a time, following the manufacturer's instructions.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 11) ❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 18) ❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 20) ❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 21) ❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 25)

Locating Controls and Ports

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

Getting Started

Front

Getting Started

A Media Access indicator (page 18) B Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot

C SD memory card slot (page 49) D LCD screen (page 137) E Keyboard (page 27) F Touch pad (page 29) G Fingerprint sensor (page 96) H WIRELESS switch (page 52) I Muting button (page 30) J Volume buttons (page 30) K Headphones jack (page 71) L Microphone jack (page 78)

* Your computer supports Memory Stick PRO media and Memory Stick Duo

media with high speed and high capacity capabilities.

(page 46)

AV MODE button (page 30)

A B Play/Pause button (page 30) C Stop button (page 30) D Previous track button (page 30) E Next track button (page 30) F Disc drive eject button (page 30) G Battery indicator (page 18) H Hard disk drive indicator (page 18) I Num lock indicator (page 18) J Caps lock indicator (page 18) K Scroll lock indicator (page 18) L Power button M Built-in speakers N Bluetooth indicator (page 18) O WIRELESS LAN indicator (page 18) P Muting indicator (page 18)

Getting Started

Back

A Network (Ethernet) port (page 85) B Battery connector (page 21) C DC IN port (page 20) D i.LINK (IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 83)

Getting Started

Right

A Optical disc drive (page 32) B Optical disc drive indicator (page 18) C Manual eject hole (page 168) D Substitute drive eject button (page 32) E Monitor (VGA) port (page 72)

Getting Started

Left

Getting Started

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports B PC Card slot (page 42) C PC Card release button (page 44) D Air vent E Modem port (page 51)

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

(page 79)

Bottom

A Air vents B Port replicator connector (page 68) C Battery release latch (page 24)

Getting Started

About the Indicator Lights

Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights.

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates when the power of the computer is on, blinks in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is

in Hibernate mode or off.

Battery e Illuminates when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery is running out of power, and

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

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

Muting % Illuminates when the volume is turned off.

Hard disk

Num lock

Caps lock

Scroll lock

Bluetooth technology

double-blinks when the battery is charging.

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. Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on.

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

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

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

Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is set to ON and Bluetooth technology is enabled.

Indicator Functions

WIRELESS LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running.

Getting Started

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

✍

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 or on the (optional) port replicator.

The shape of the DC In plug varies depending on the AC adapter.

✍

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 122). This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down or resuming.

Using the Battery Pack

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

Installing the Battery Pack

To install the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid. 2 Slide the battery into the battery compartment until it clicks into place.

✍

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

Getting Started

This computer is designed to operate only with genuine Sony batteries.

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

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

To charge the battery pack

1 Install the battery pack. 2 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is about 85% charged, the battery indicator turns off.

Battery indicator light status Meaning

On The computer is using battery power.

Blinks The battery is running out of power.

Double blinks The battery is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

Getting Started

✍

When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicator lights blink.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Started

Removing the Battery Pack

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

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid. 2 Slide and hold the battery release latch (1) and slide the battery away from the computer.

✍

If the battery is stuck by the side spring locks, release one lock and then the other to remove the battery.

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 27) ❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 29) ❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 30) ❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 32) ❑ Using PC Cards (page 42) ❑ Using the Memory Stick Media (page 45) ❑ Using Other Memory Cards (page 49) ❑ Using the Internet (page 51) ❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 52) ❑ Using the Bluetooth Functionality (page 61)

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer keyboard, but has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

✍

Some functions are not available before Windows is launched.

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + 8 (F5/F6): brightness control Adjusts the LCD brightness of your computer screen.

To increase lightness intensity, press Fn+F6 and then M or ,, or keep pressing Fn+F6. To decrease lightness intensity, press Fn+F5 and then m or <, or keep pressing Fn+F5.

Fn + /T (F7): display output

Fn + (F10): zoom

Toggles among your computer screen, an external display, and simultaneous output to both.

Changes the screen resolution to magnify/restore your computer's screen view.

✍

The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view, as it is implemented by applying a lower resolution to the computer screen with a higher resolution. This key combination is disabled during video playback. Make sure to quit such software before pressing the key combination. This key combination may not work with graphic images as it magnifies the screen view by changing the resolution. The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or the standard view is restored because pressing this key combination changes the resolution. When your computer's screen view is magnified, switching the view to the external display disables the function and restores the standard view.

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + (F12): Hibernate

Using Your VAIO Computer

Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the states of the system and the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk and the system power is turned off. To return the system to its original state, use the power button to turn on the power. For details on power management, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 119).

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Touch Pad

The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, the touch pad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the touch pad.

Action Description

Point Slide one finger on the touch pad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.

Click Press the left button (3) once.

Double-click Press the left button twice.

Right-click Press the right button (4) once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu.

Drag Slide one finger on the touch pad while pressing the left button.

Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touch pad to scroll vertically. Move your finger along the bottom to scroll

horizontally (the scroll function is available only with applications that support a touch pad scroll feature).

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Special-function Buttons

Your computer is equipped with special buttons to help you use specific functions of the computer. The AV MODE, Play/Pause, Stop, Previous track, Next track, and Disc drive eject buttons support Instant Mode. To activate

Instant Mode, the computer must be off. See the printed Instant Mode booklet for more information on the Instant Mode.

Special-function button Functions

When Windows is NOT launched:

AV MODE button

Play/Pause button

Stop button

Previous track button

Next track button

Activates Instant Mode to enable you immediately to play CDs and DVDs and view the image data stored in the memory card, such as a Memory Stick media or SD memory card, without launching Windows. See the printed Instant Mode booklet for more information. When Windows is launched and running: Launches the WinDVD software by default. You can change this button assignment with the AV Mode Button

Settings utility. To start this utility, press and hold the AV MODE button. See the help file on the AV Mode Button Settings utility for more information.

You need administrator rights on the computer to change the AV MO D E button assignment.

This button is enabled in Instant Mode as well as when Windows is launched and running. Starts or pauses DVD playback with the WinDVD software or CD playback with the SonicStage software.

This button is enabled in Instant Mode as well as when Windows is launched and running. Stops DVD playback with the WinDVD software or CD playback with the SonicStage software.

This button is enabled in Instant Mode as well as when Windows is launched and running. Plays the previous chapter/movie in the DVD during playback with the WinDVD software or the previous song in the CD during playback with the SonicStage software.

This button is enabled in Instant Mode as well as when Windows is launched and running. Plays the next chapter/movie in the DVD during playback with the WinDVD software or the next song in the CD during playback with the SonicStage software.

Special-function button Functions

Ejects the optical disc drive tray.

Disc drive eject button

Muting button Turns the speaker and microphone volume on and off.

Volume buttons (Volume up and Volume down)

If this button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.

Increase and decrease the volume.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Optical Disc Drive

Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.

To insert a disc

1 Turn on the computer. 2 Press the disc drive eject button (1) to open the drive.

The tray slides out.

✍

If the disc drive eject button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.

If power supply to the optical disc drive is disabled by VAIO Power Management, it will take a while to eject the drive tray. Note that the substitute drive

eject button is disabled when the optical disc drive is not powered.

When recovering your system, turn on your computer and press the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive. Insert your Recovery Disc

into the optical disc drive, turn off the computer, and then turn on the computer again to launch the VAIO Recovery utility.

Using Your VAIO Computer

3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing upward and gently push it until the disc clicks into place.

4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently.

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.

✍

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

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.

Optical disc drive Plays Records to

DVD-ROM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), and DVD-R DL (Dual Layer)

CD-RW/DVD-ROM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), and DVD+RW

DVD±RW (Supporting DVD+R DL) CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), and DVD+RW

DVD±RW/+R DL/RAM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD+RW, and DVD-RAM

DVD±RW (Supporting DVD±R DL) CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), and DVD+RW

DVD±RW/±R DL/RAM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD+RW, and DVD-RAM

—

CD-R and CD-RW

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), and DVD+RW

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD+RW, and DVD-RAM

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), and DVD+RW

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD+RW, and DVD-RAM

Using Your VAIO Computer

This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc Digital Audio standard specifications (CD Standard). A DualDisc 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 DualDisc 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 writing data to DVD-RW discs compliant with DVD-RW version 1.1/1.2.

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

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

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.

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.

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 pre-installed software and while using the CD burning software. ❑ Never affix an adhesive label to discs. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably. ❑ Connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer or make sure your battery is at least 50 percent charged.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Notes on playing DVDs

To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, you should follow these recommendations. ❑ You can play DVDs using the optical disc drive and the DVD playback software, such as VAIO Zone or WinDVD. See the

help file on such software for details.

❑ 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.

You can change the DVD region code only a limited number of times. When you have exceeded this number, the drive's DVD region code is permanently

assigned and you will not be able to change it again. Reconfiguring your computer does not reset this count.

If you change the DVD region code while the WinDVD software is running, restart the software or eject the disc and re-insert it to make the new setting

effective.

Using Your VAIO Computer

❑ If your computer has the Wireless LAN functionality and 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.

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Copying Files to CDs

See the online Specifications to find the type of your optical disc drive, and then Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs

(page 34) to find about the supported disc media.

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.

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

The DVD writing function is available on selected models only. See the online Specifications to find the type of your optical disc drive, and then Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs (page 34) to find about the supported disc media.

To copy files to a disc

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer. 2 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive. 3 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.

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 upward. 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.

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

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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.

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 device 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/

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

January 2006. However, not all Memory Stick media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

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.

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

for customers in Latin American countries or areas.

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

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

Using Your VAIO Computer

Inserting a Memory Stick Media

To insert a Memory Stick media

1 Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot. 2 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 combo slot that is compatible with both standard- and duo-

size media. For more information on Memory Stick Duo media, visit the Memory Stick web site at http://www.memorystick.com/en/

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

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.

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 January 2006. However, not all memory card

media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

Inserting a Memory Card

To insert a memory card

1 Locate the SD memory card slot on the front of the computer.

2 Hold the memory card with the arrow facing upward and 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.

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

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To remove a memory card

1 Check that the Media Access indicator is off. 2 Press the extended part of the memory card, causing it to extend out from the slot. 3 When the card extends, carefully pull it out of the slot.

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).

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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.

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.

The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities, but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming. You can still access information, Internet/intranet and network resources, even in the middle of a meeting, or as you move from one place to another.

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).

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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 802.11a

Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol and WiFi Protected Access (WPA - Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, WiFi Protected Access

is a specification of standards based, interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing WiFi

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.

/b/g standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes the encryption method: Wired Equivalent

* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the IEEE 802.11a standard.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

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.

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To communicate without an access point (ad-hoc)

1 Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

Except in Peru and Venezuela, you cannot select the 5 GHz bandwidth, which is used for the IEEE 802.11a standard, on

ad-hoc networks.

On models that support the Bluetooth functionality

on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless option(s) and click OK.

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.

and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard*1, double-click ( / )

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12 Enter the network key*2.

The network key should be 5 or 13 alphanumeric characters or 10 or 26 hexadecimal

characters long. You can choose

whichever you want.

13 Enter exactly the same network key again, for confirmation. 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.

See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard.

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, plus the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent hexadecimal digits with values of (decimal) 10 to 15.

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An ad-hoc network does not support WPA.

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 or WIRELESS LAN switch.

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.

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 or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

On models that support the Bluetooth functionality

the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless option(s) and click OK.

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.

* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard.

and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard*, double-click ( / ) on

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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 or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

On models that support the Bluetooth functionality

and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard*, double-click ( / ) on

the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless option(s) and click OK. 3 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click Wireless Setup Utility.

The Wireless Setup Utility appears. 4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard.

To disconnect from a wireless network

Turn off the WIRELESS or 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.

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Using the Bluetooth Functionality

You can establish wireless communication between your computer and other Bluetooth devices such as another computer or a mobile phone. You can transfer data between these devices without cables and up to 33 feet (10 meters) range in open space.

To connect to a Bluetooth device

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.

2 Double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. 3 Select the Enable Bluetooth Device option. 4 Click OK.

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Notes on using the Bluetooth functionality

❑ The data transfer rate varies, depending on the following conditions:

❑ Obstacles, such as walls, located between devices

❑ Distance between devices

❑ Material used in walls

❑ Proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones

❑ Radio frequency interference and other environmental conditions

❑ Device configuration

❑ Type of software application

❑ Type of operating system

❑ Use of both Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functionalities at the same time on your computer

❑ Size of file being exchanged ❑ Note that due to limitations of the Bluetooth standard, large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer

due to electromagnetic interference from the environment. ❑ All Bluetooth devices must be certified to make sure that the applicable standard requirements are maintained. Even if

standards are met, individual device performance, specifications, and operation procedures can vary. Data exchange may

not be possible in all situations. ❑ As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, video and audio may go out of synchronization if you play videos on

your computer with audio output from the connected Bluetooth device.

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❑ The 2.4 GHz band, with which Bluetooth devices or wireless LAN devices work, is used by various devices. Bluetooth

devices use the technology to minimize the interference from other devices that use the same wave length. Simultaneous

use of the Bluetooth functionality and wireless communication devices, however, may cause radio interference and result

in poorer communication speeds and distances than the standard values. ❑ The Bluetooth functionality may not work depending on the third party devices or the software version used by third party

companies. ❑ As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, connecting multiple Bluetooth devices to your computer may cause

bandwidth congestion, resulting in poor performance of the devices.

Bluetooth Security

The Bluetooth wireless technology has an authentication function, which allows you to determine with whom you choose to communicate. With the authentication function, you can avoid any anonymous Bluetooth device to access your computer.

The first time two Bluetooth devices communicate, a common passkey (a password required for authentication) should be determined for both devices to be registered. Once a device is registered, there is no need to re-enter the passkey.

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The passkey can be different each time, but must be the same at both ends.

For certain devices, such as a mouse, no passkey can be entered.

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Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device

You can connect your computer to a Bluetooth device such as another computer, a mobile phone, a PDA, a headset, a mouse, or a digital camera without the use of any cables.

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To communicate with another Bluetooth device

To communicate with another Bluetooth device, you need first to set up the Bluetooth functionality. For setting up and using the Bluetooth functionality, see the help file on the Bluetooth utility software.

To see the help file

1 Right-click the Bluetooth icon on the taskbar, and select Help from the menu.

Stopping the Bluetooth Connection

To stop the Bluetooth connection, turn off the WIRELESS switch. The Bluetooth indicator turns off.

Using Peripheral Devices

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

❑ Connecting a Port Replicator (page 67) ❑ Connecting External Speakers (page 71) ❑ Connecting an External Display (page 72) ❑ Selecting Display Modes (page 75) ❑ Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 76) ❑ Connecting an External Microphone (page 78) ❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 79) ❑ Connecting a Printer (page 82) ❑ Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 83) ❑ Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 85)

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Port Replicator

Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer and an external display.

A port replicator may be supplied with your computer, depending on the model you purchased. If not, you can additionally purchase an optional port replicator.

See the online Specifications to see whether your model is supplied with a port replicator.

Locating Ports on the Port Replicator

A DC IN port (page 20) B Network (Ethernet) port (100BASE-TX / 10BASE-T) (page 85) C Monitor (VGA) port (page 72)

D Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

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

The port replicator can be powered only through the AC adapter supplied with your computer. Do not unplug the AC adapter from the port replicator

and the AC outlet while using the port replicator; this may cause data damage or hardware malfunctions.

(page 79)

Attaching Your Computer to the Port Replicator

To attach your computer to the port replicator

To prevent loss of unsaved data, be sure to turn off your computer before attaching it to the port replicator.

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer. 2 Plug the power cord (1) into the AC adapter (2) and an AC outlet. 3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (2) into the DC IN port (3) on the port replicator (4).

4 Open the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

5 Align the bottom connector of the computer with the connector on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into

place.

6 Turn on the computer.

Use the AC adapter supplied with your computer.

Do not move your computer while attached to the port replicator; this may detach the port replicator and cause damage to the port replicator and the

computer.

Disconnecting Your Computer from the Port Replicator

To prevent loss of unsaved data, be sure to turn off your computer before disconnecting it from the port replicator.

To disconnect your computer from the port replicator

1 Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals. 2 Lift the computer away from the port replicator.

3 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

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It is extremely important to close the port replicator connector cover after disconnecting your computer from the port replicator. If the cover is left open,

dust may get inside and damage the computer.

To disconnect the port replicator completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.

Connecting External Speakers

You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers.

To connect external speakers

1 Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphones jack (2) i. 2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker (3). 3 Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.

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Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use.

Using Peripheral Devices

Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; their magnetic field may damage the data on the disks.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display to your computer. For example, you can use the computer with a computer display or a projector.

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Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.

Connected external displays are used as secondary screens.

On Windows systems only, you can also use an external display to set up multiple monitors.

Connecting a Computer Display

You can connect a computer display (monitor) either directly to your computer or via the (optional) port replicator.

To connect a computer display

1 If necessary, plug one end of the display's power cord (1) into your display, and the other end into an AC outlet. 2 If you want to connect a VGA monitor, plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the

computer or on the port replicator.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display

You can connect a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone to your computer or via the (optional) port replicator.

To connect a multimedia computer display

1 Plug the power cord of your multimedia computer display (1) into an AC outlet. 2 Plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the computer or on the port replicator. 3 Plug the speaker cable (4) into the headphones jack (5) i on the computer. 4 Plug the microphone cable (6) into the microphone jack (7) m on the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Projector

You can connect a projector (for example, the Sony LCD projector) directly to your computer or via the (optional) port replicator.

To connect a projector

1 Connect the power cord (1) of your projector into an AC outlet. 2 Plug an RGB signal cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the computer or on the port replicator. 3 Plug an audio cable (4) (not supplied) into the headphones jack (5) i. 4 Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the jack and port on the projector (6).

Using Peripheral Devices

Selecting Display Modes

You can select which display to be used as the primary monitor when an external display (desktop monitor, etc.) is connected to your computer.

If you want to work on your computer screen and the external display at the same time, see Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 76) for more information.

To select a display

1 Right-click on the desktop to display the context menu. 2 Click the menu item for graphic properties. 3 Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

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You may not be able to display the same contents on your computer screen and the external display or projector at the same time, depending on the

type of your external display or projector.

Before turning on your computer, turn on the peripheral devices.

Using Peripheral Devices

Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you have an external display attached to the monitor (VGA) port, your computer screen and the external display can function as a single desktop.

You can move the cursor from one display to the other. This allows you to drag objects, such as an open application window or a toolbar, from one display to the other.

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Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

Certain software applications may not be compatible with Multiple Monitors settings.

Make sure that your computer does not enter Standby or Hibernate mode while you are using Multiple Monitors mode; otherwise the computer may

not return to Normal mode.

If you set different colors on each display, do not divide one single window on two displays; otherwise your software may not work properly.

Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

To select the Multiple Monitors mode

1 Right-click on the desktop to display the context menu. 2 Click the menu item for graphic properties. 3 Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

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Additionally, you can set the display colors and resolution for each display and customize the Multiple Monitors mode.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting an External Microphone

If you need to use a sound input device (for example, to chat over the Internet) you need to plug in an external microphone.

To connect an external microphone

Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone jack (2) m.

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Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

To prevent your computer and/or USB devices from damage, observe the following:

❑ When moving the computer with USB devices connected, avoid any shock or force to the USB ports. ❑ Do not put the computer into a bag or carrying case when it has USB devices connected.

Connecting a USB Mouse

To connect a USB mouse

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

You can now use your USB mouse (3).

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The VAIO USB mouse software driver is preinstalled on your computer. As a result, you only need to plug the USB mouse into the USB port and you

can start working.

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

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.

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.

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), VMC-IL4408 Series (a 0.8 meter cable with a 4-pin

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 CD-RW

drive) before you connect them to your computer.

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.

✍

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.

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 or the (optional) port replicator and the other end to your network. For detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network, see your network administrator.

✍

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.

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 87) ❑ Using Fingerprint Authentication (page 96) ❑ Using Trusted Platform Module (TPM) (page 113) ❑ Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central (page 118) ❑ Using the Power Saving Modes (page 119) ❑ Managing Power with VAIO Power Management (page 124) ❑ Changing the Performance Setting (page 127) ❑ Protecting the Hard Disk (page 128)

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Setting the Password

In addition to the Windows password, you can use BIOS functions to set two types of passwords to protect your computer: power-on password and hard disk password.

Once you have set the power-on 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.

The hard disk password provides additional security for the data stored on your hard disk. If you set the hard disk password, no other users will be able to access the data without knowing the password, even if the hard disk is installed in another computer.

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.

✍

If you have set the power-on password in conjunction with the fingerprint authentication functionality, you can substitute fingerprint recognition for

password entry when turning on your computer. For more information, see Using Fingerprint Authentication (page 96).

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.

✍

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.

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.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Adding the Hard Disk Password

The hard disk password provides additional security for the data stored on your hard disk. If you enable the hard disk password, this adds an extra level of security.

When adding the hard disk password, you must set both the master and user passwords. The master password is provided for users with administrator rights on the computer to reset the user password on the BIOS setup screen. The user password is provided to lock your hard disk. Once you set the user password, you will have to enter the password along with the poweron password (if set), after the VAIO logo appears.

You cannot start your computer with the master password.

If you forget the master password or the keyboard fails, which is critical to password entry, no bypass is possible and the data stored in the hard disk

will not be accessible. There is NO RESET of this password. You will have to replace the hard disk at your own expense and lose all the data stored in

the original hard disk. Make sure to write down the master password and keep it safe and private from other people.

✍

If you have set the hard disk password in conjunction with the fingerprint authentication functionality, you can substitute fingerprint recognition for

password entry when turning on your computer. For more information, see Using Fingerprint Authentication (page 96).

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

To add the hard disk 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.

✍

If you have set the power-on password, enter your power-on password.

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

Enter key.

The password entry screen appears.

4 Select Enter Master and User Passwords and press the Enter key. 5 Select Continue on the warning screen and press the Enter key. 6 Enter the master password twice and press the Enter key.

The password should be up to 32 alphanumeric characters (including spaces) long. 7 Enter the user password twice and press the Enter key.

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

8 Press the Enter key when the Setup Notice message appears. 9 Press the Esc key. 10 Press the < or , key to select Exit, select 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.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Changing the Hard Disk Password

To change the hard disk 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.

✍

If you have set the power-on password, enter your power-on password.

3 Press the < or , key to select Security to display the Security tab, select Hard Disk Password on the model with a

single hard disk drive (Hard Disk1 Password or Hard Disk2 Password on the model with two hard disk drives), and then

press the Enter key.

The password entry screen appears.

4 Select Change Master Password or Change User Password and press the Enter key. 5 Enter the current password once and then a new password twice. 6 Press the Enter key. 7 Press the Enter key when the success message appears. 8 Press the Esc key. 9 Press the < or , key to select Exit, select 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.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Removing the Hard Disk Password

To remove the hard disk 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.

✍

If you have set the power-on password, enter your power-on password.

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

Enter key.

The password entry screen appears.

4 Select Enter Master and User Password and press the Enter key. 5 Enter the current password for Enter Current Hard Disk Master Password and press the Enter key, leaving everything

else blank.

6 Press the Enter key when the success message appears. 7 Press the Esc key. 8 Press the < or , key to select Exit, select 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.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Adding the Windows Password

The Windows password comes in handy when you have to share a single computer with other people. By setting the Windows password, you can protect your user account from unauthorized access.

Entry of the Windows password will be prompted after you select your user account.

Make sure not to forget the password. Write down your password and keep it safe and private from other people.

✍

If you have set the Windows password in conjunction with the fingerprint authentication functionality, you can substitute fingerprint recognition for

password entry when turning on your computer. For more information, see Using Fingerprint Authentication (page 96).

To add the Windows password

1 Click Start and then Control Panel. 2 Click the User Accounts icon. 3 Click your user account under or pick an account to change. 4 Click Create a password. 5 In the Type a new password and Type the new password again to confirm fields, enter the password for your account. 6 Click Create Password.

✍

See Help and Support Center for more information on the Windows password.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Changing/Removing the Windows Password

To change the Windows password

1 Click Start and then Control Panel. 2 Click the User Accounts icon. 3 Click your user account under or pick an account to change. 4 Click Change my password. 5 Enter the current password under Type your current password. 6 Enter a new password under Type a new password and the same password under Type the new password again to

confirm. 7 Click Change Password.

To remove the password

1 Click Start and then Control Panel. 2 Click the User Accounts icon. 3 Click your user account under or pick an account to change. 4 Click Remove my password. 5 Enter the current password that you want to remove. 6 Click Remove Password.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Using Fingerprint Authentication

Your computer is equipped with a fingerprint sensor to provide you with additional convenience. A small horizontal bar located at the lower right of the keyboard is the sensor of the fingerprint reader and will be referred to as the fingerprint sensor hereinafter.

Once you have registered your fingerprint(s), the fingerprint authentication functionality offers: ❑ A substitute for password entry

You can log onto your password-protected system without entering the power-on, hard disk, and Windows passwords. If

you share a computer with other people, you can skip user selection as well. ❑ Quick web-site access

Once you have registered your user information (user accounts, passwords, etc.) for web sites in the password bank, you

can substitute fingerprint authentication for entering required information and access the password-protected web sites. ❑ Access to the encrypted (locked) My Safe folder

The My Safe folder is provided to protect your data against unauthorized access. With the fingerprint authentication

functionality, you can decrypt (unlock) this folder to access your data. ❑ Quick application access

Once you have assigned an application to your finger, you can then swipe the finger across the fingerprint sensor to

launch the assigned application.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Precautions on Using Fingerprint Authentication

❑ The fingerprint authentication technology does not assure 100% verification.

Sony assumes no liabilities for any problems and damages arising out of your use of or inability to use the fingerprint

sensor. ❑ The fingerprint authentication technology does not assure complete protection of your data and hardware.

Sony assumes no liabilities for any problems and damages arising out of your use of or inability to use the fingerprint

sensor.

❑ The fingerprint recognition rate depends on your operating conditions and varies among individuals as well. ❑ Make sure to make a backup copy of the data stored in the hard disk, especially in the My Safe folder, before sending

your computer for repair.

Sony assumes no liabilities for any loss or modification of your data that might have occurred during the course of repair. ❑ The hard disk may be initialized and returned after the repair work and, in such a case, you will not be able to restore your

fingerprint templates. ❑ The maintenance and management of data concerning fingerprint authentication must be carried out at your own risk.

Sony assumes no liabilities for any defects arising out of your data maintenance and management.

❑ When enrolling your fingerprint(s), keep the following in mind:

❑ Enroll more than one fingerprint in case of inability to recognize the fingerprint due to injury.

❑ You may not be able to enroll your fingerprint(s) due to some biological factors.

❑ Up to 10 fingerprints can be enrolled per person.

Note that up to 21 fingerprints can be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis for logging on to your system using the Boot Security functionality. If you share your computer with other people, you may not be able to use your enrolled fingerprint to log on to your system.

❑ When swiping your finger across the fingerprint sensor, keep the following in mind:

❑ Place your fingertip flat in the center of the fingerprint sensor.

❑ Scan your fingerprint from the top joint of the finger to the fingertip.

❑ Swipe your finger perpendicularly across the fingerprint sensor.

❑ Keep your finger in contact with the fingerprint sensor while swiping.

❑ Let the fingerprint sensor take about one second to scan your fingerprint. ❑ It may be hard to enroll or recognize your fingerprint if your finger is:

❑ dry or wet

❑ wrinkled

❑ injured

❑ dirty ❑ The soiled fingerprint sensor may cause poor recognition performance.

❑ Wipe off the fingerprint sensor regularly with a soft cloth.

❑ Use a lens cleaning cloth when the fingerprint sensor is extremely soiled.

❑ Blow off dust with an air blower or a soft brush.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Enrolling a Fingerprint

To use the fingerprint authentication functionality, you must enroll your fingerprint(s) in your computer.

✍

Set the Windows password on your computer before enrollment. See Adding the Windows Password (page 94) for the detailed instructions.

To enroll a fingerprint

Up to 21 fingerprints can be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis for logging on to your system using the Boot Security functionality. If you share

your computer with other people, you may not be able to use your enrolled fingerprint to log on to your system.

1 Click Start, point to All Programs and Protector Suite QL, and then click Welcome.

The Welcome window appears. 2 Click Enroll now.

✍

If the Windows password is not set on your computer, password registration will be prompted.

1 Click OK on the prompt window.

2 Click Yes for confirmation.

3 Enter your password twice and click OK.

3 Click Next. 4 Enter the Windows password and click Next. 5 Select the Run interactive tutorial check box and click Next. 6 Read the tutorial information and click Next.

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

7 Swipe your finger across the fingerprint sensor four times to perform a swipe test, and then click Next.

The Enrollment window appears.

✍

See To scan a fingerprint (page 101) for the scan procedure.

8 Click on the finger of which fingerprint you want to enroll. 9 Swipe the finger across the fingerprint sensor three times. 10 Click Finish.

100

✍

To enroll more fingerprints, repeat steps 7 and 8 above.

If enrollment scan fails in step 8 above, click Manual mode and follow the on-screen instructions to try manual mode enrollment.

To edit or add fingerprint templates, right-click the Protector Suite QL icon on the taskbar.

Sony PCG4H2L Users Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Before Use

Documentation

Ergonomic Considerations

Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

About the Indicator Lights

Connecting a Power Source

Using the Battery Pack

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

Using the Touch Pad

Using Special-function Buttons

Using the Optical Disc Drive

Using PC Cards

Using the Memory Stick Media

Using Other Memory Cards

Using the Internet

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

Using the Bluetooth Functionality

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Port Replicator

Connecting External Speakers

Connecting an External Display

Selecting Display Modes

Using the Multiple Monitors Function

Connecting an External Microphone

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

Connecting a Printer

Connecting an i.LINK Device

Connecting to a Network (LAN)

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Setting the Password

Using Fingerprint Authentication