Sony PCG-505GX User Manual

Notice to Users

© 1998 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights
reserved. This manual and the software
described herein, in whole or in part, may
not be reproduced, translated, or reduced
to any machine-readable form without
prior written approval.

SONY ELECTRONICS INC. PROVIDES
NO WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO
THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR
OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED
HEREIN AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY
DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR
PURPOSE WITH REGARD TO THIS
MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR SUCH
OTHER INFORMATION. IN NO EVENT
SHALL SONY ELECTRONICS INC. BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL, OR SPECIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON

TORT, CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE,
ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNEGTION
WITH THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE,
OR OTHER INFORMATION
GONTAINED HEREIN OR THE USE
THEREOF,

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

This product contains software owned by
Sony and licensed by third parties. Use of
such software is subject to the terms and
conditions of license agreements enclosed
with this product. Some of the software
may not be transported or used outside the
United States. Software specifications are
subject to change without notice and may
not necessarily be identical to current retail
versions.

Updates and additions to software may
require an additional charge. Subscriptions
to online service providers may require a
fee and credit card information. Financial
services may require prior arrangements
with participating financial institutions.

Sony, DVgate, i.LINK, Mavica,
PictureGear, VAIO and the VAIO logo are
trademarks of Sony Gorporation. Windows
and the Windows 98 logo are registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel,
MMX, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel
Corporation.

All other trademarks are trademarks of
their respective owners.

Safety Information

Owner's Record

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

Model Number: PCG-505G/PCG-505GX
Serial Number:

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do
not expose your notebook computer
to rain or moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open
the cabinet. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel only.
Never install modem or telephone
wiring during a lightning storm.
Never install telephone Jacks in wet
locations unless the Jack is specifically
designed for wet locations
Never touch uninsulated telephone
wire or terminals unless the telephone
line has been disconnected at the
network interface.

_______________________

Use caution when installing or
modifying telephone lines.
Avoid using the modem during an
electrical storm.

Do not use the modem or a telephone
to report a gas leak in the vicinity of
the leak.
A socket outlet should be as close as
possible to the unit and easily
accessible.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY
Model No: PCG-505G/PCG-505GX
Responsible Party:

Sony Electronics Inc.

Address:

1 Sony Drive

Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Telephone No.: 201-930-6970
This device complies with Part 15 of

the FCC rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions: (1)
This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference that
may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential Installation.
This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
Installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.

However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the
following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.
Increase the separation between the
equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet
on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced
radio/TV technician for help.

You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.

Only peripherals (computer input/output
devices, terminals, printers, etc.) that
comply with FCC Class B limits may be
attached to this computer product.
Operation with non-compliant peripherals
is likely to result in interference to radio
and television reception.

All cables used to connect peripherals must
be shielded and grounded. Operation with
cables, connected to peripherals, that are
not shielded and grounded, may result in
interference to radio and television
reception.

FCC Part 68

This equipment complies with Part 68 of
the FCC rules. On the bottom of this
equipment is a label that contains among
other Information, the FCC equivalence
number (REN) for this equipment. If
requested, this information must be
provided to the telephone company.

All applicable registration jack USCOs, any
facility interface codes and service order
codes associated with the services the
equipment is to be connected.

The REN is used to determine the quantity
of devices which may be connected to the
telephone line. Excessive RENs on the
telephone line may result in the devices not
ringing in response to an incoming call. In
most, but not all areas, the sum of the RENs
should not exceed five (5,0). To be certain
of the number of devices that may be
connected to the line, as determined by the
total RENs, conta,ct the telephone company
to determine the maximum REN for the
calling area.

If the terminal■fequipment (Notebook
Computer PCG-505G/PCG-505GX) causes
harm to the telephone network, the
telephone company wiH notify you in
advance that temporary discontinuance of
service may be required. But if advance
notice isn’t practical, the telephone
company will notify the customer as soon

as possible. Also, you will be advised of
your right to file a complaint with the FCC
if you believe it is necessary.

The telephone company may make
changes in its facilities, equipment,
operations or procedures that could affect
the operations of the equipment. If this
happens, the telephone company will
provide advance notice in order for you to
make the necessary modifications in order
to maintain uninterrupted service.

If trouble is experienced with this
equipment (Notebook Computer PCG­505G/PCG-505GX), please contact 1-888­4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972), or write to the

Sony Customer Information Center, One
Sony Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656 for repair
and (or) warranty information. If the
trouble is causing harm to the telephone
network, the telephone company may
request you remove the equipment from
the network until the problem is resolved.

Repair of this equipment should be made
only by a Sony Service Center or Sony
authorized agent. For the Sony Service
Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC

(1-888-476-6972).
This equipment cannot be used on public

coin service provided by the telephone
company. Connection to Party Line Service
is subject to state and possible provincial
tariffs. (Contact the state or provincial
utility service commission, public service
commission or corporation commission
for information.)

Telephone Consumer

Protection Act of 1991

(United States)

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of
1991 makes it unlawful for any person to
use a computer or other electronic device
to send any message via a telephone
facsimile machine unless such message

clearly contains, in a margin at the top or
bottom of each transmitted page or on the
first page of the transmission, the date and
time it is sent and an Identification of the
business, other entity, or individual ,
sending the message, and the telephone
number of the sending machine or such
business, other entity, or Individual.

In order to program this information into
your facsimile, see your fax software
documentation.

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY

You can return your unwanted lithium ion
batteries to your nearest Sony Service
Center or Factory Service Center,

^ In some areas the disposal of lithium ion

batteries in household or business trash
may be prohibited.

For the Sony Service Center nearest you
call l-888-476-6972in the United States .

Do not handle damaged or leaking

lithium ion batteries.

Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the
manufacturer. Discard used
batteries according to the
manufacturer's instructions.

The battery pack used in this

device may present a fire or
chemical burn hazard if mistreated.
Do not disassemble, heat above
212° (100°C) or incinerate.
Dispose of used battery promptly.
Keep away from children

Contents

Welcome

Unpacking Your Notebook Computer..............................................2

Manuals..................................................................................... 2

Recovery CDs............................................................................ 2

Other.......................................................................................... 2

About the Software on Your Notebook Computer

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

Using Your Notebook Computer

Locating the Controls and Connectors

Front....................................................................................... 11

Back......................................................................................... 12

Left.......................................................................................... 12

Right 13

Bottom..................................................................................... 13

Connecting a Power Source............................................................14

Using the AC Adapter............................................................. 14

Using Battery Power

Starting Your Computer..................................................................18

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

Registering Windows® 98..............................................................20

Registering Your Computer............................................................21

Using the Keyboard........................................................................22

Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key

Indicators............................................................................. 25

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Using the Touchpad........................................................................27

Using the Plastic Pen

Using ScribblePad................................................................... 29

..............................................................

......................................................................

...........................................

...........................

.......................

........

3

11

15

24

26

28

VII

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Floppy Disk Drive

..........................................................

Using PC Cards...............................................................................32

Using Infrared Communication Devices.........................................35

Using Power Saving Modes............................................................37

Normal Mode
System Suspend Mode

.........................................................................

............................................................37

System Hibernation Mode......................................................38

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Phone Line................................................................40

Connecting the Port Replicator.......................................................41

Connecting a Printer...............................................................43

Connecting an External Display.............................................44

Connecting an External Mouse and Keyboard
Connecting a Desktop Computer or Serial Device

........................

.................

Connecting the CD-ROM Drive.....................................................49

Connecting External Speakers........................................................52

Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder
Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

...............................

.........................

Getting Started With VAIO Space

Starting VAIO Space

......................................................................

VAIO Space Centers.......................................................................58

Navigating through VAIO Space....................................................59

VAIO Space Controls.............................................................60

Using the Software Center..............................................................61

Using the Audio-Video Center

.......................................................

Using the Video Player...........................................................62

Using the Music/Movie Player...............................................63

Music/Movie Player Functions

Using the Online Center

...............................................................

..............................................

Using the Tool Center.....................................................................66

Using T ool Center T ools
Using Tool Center Options

Using the Help Center

....................................................................

......................................................

....................................................

Exiting VAIO Space.......................................................................68

30

37

46

47

54

55

57

62

r64

65

66
67

68

Contents

Customizing Your Notebook Computer

Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen

.................................

Notebook Setup Tabs ...........................................................70

Controlling Power Management.....................................................71

Power Management Profiles

.................................................

Power Management Commands...........................................

Displaying Battery Information......................................................74

Activating BatteryScope
Battery Icon Descriptions
Displaying Detailed Battery Information

.......................................................

.....................................................

..............................

Starting Your Favorite Software With
Programmable Power Key (PPK) Setup

.........................................

Using the Programmable Power Key With Other Keys

Selecting the Display Mode............................................................78

Getting Help

Calling SOS....................................................................................83

Troubleshooting..............................................................................85

Using the System and Application Recovery CDs

Using the System Recovery CD
Using the Application Recovery CDs

...........................................

...................................

.........................

.........

69

71

72

74

74

75

76

77

91

91

93

Notes on Use...............................................................................95

Limited Warranty Statement

MicroNotebook Computer Limited Warranty........................101

Battery Limited Warranty

...................................................

103

Specifications............................................................................W5

Index.....................................................................................’

....

107

Welcome

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

Here are just some of the features your notebook computer has to offer;

□ Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast Intel ® Pentium®

processor with MMX technology, and a K56flex technology
modem.*

□ Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides two to five

hours of use without AC power. See “To charge the battery pack” on
page 16 for specific information on your model.

□ Sony audio and video quality - High-quality M PEG 1 video, which

supports full-screen display (10.4-inch Active Matrix LCD screen)

-and enables you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia
applications, games, and entertainment software.

□ Windows® 98 -Your system includes the latest operating system

from Microsoft.

□ Communications - Access popular online services, send e-mail,

browse the Internet, and use fax features.

□ 50 free hours of Internet access - Use the Internet for up to 50 free

hours when you sign up with GTE (no credit card required). Limit of
two hours per day. Free access expires after 50 hours of use or 90 days
after signing up—whichever occurs first.

* 33.6 kbps data/14.4 kbps fax modem

10

Welcome

About the Software

on Your Notebook Computer

Your notebook computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and
communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you an
overview of the activities you can perform with your software titles.

Adobe ® Acrobat Reader

Adobe Systems Incorporated

Acrobat Reader software allows you to view, navigate, and print
electronic documents in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF), an

open file format that is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents
created on all major computer platforms. For questions and technical assistance,
go online at http://www.adobe.com/, e-mail [e-mail] (put
“instructions” in the subject line to receive information about the service),
fax [phone], or for fee-based support in the US call 206-628-2746 or
900-555-2200, M-F, 6AM-5 PM PT.

Adobe PhotoDeluxe®

Adobe Systems Incorporated

Create amazing photo effects with Adobe PhotoDeluxe. Without
learning complex software, you can enhance, restore, and be creative
with your photos. Includes built-in guided activities, stock photos, clip

art, and templates to assist you. For questions and technical assistance, go online
at

http://www.adobe.com/, e-mail [e-mail] (put “Instructions" in
the subject line to receive information about the service), fax [phone], or for
fee-based support in the US call 206-628-2746 or 900-555-2200, M-F, 6\M-5 PM PT.

Application Recovery CDs

Sony Electronics

The Application Recovery CDs allows you to reinstall Individual applications and
device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally erased. Reinstalling an
individual device driver or software title may correct a problem you are
experiencing with your computer, and you may not need to recover the entire
contents of your hard drive. See “Using the System and Application Recovery
CDs” on page 91 for details. For questions and technical assistance, call Sony
Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day*.

* Support from I-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

America Online '

America Online

America Online is the world’s most popular Internet online service. Stay
in touch with family and friends with easy-to-use e-mail, manage your

i personal finances, get the latest news and sports scores, and chat with
thousands of others who share your interests. For technical support, call America
Online at 800-827-3338, 7 days a week, 6AM - 2 PM ET.

CompuServe® Interactive

CompuServe, Inc.

CompuServe is the most comprehensive source of organized business and
educational information online today. CompuServe allows you to access
the vastness of the Internet without wasting time wading through it.

Maximize your time online with CompuServe. For technical support, call

CompuServe at 800-848-8990, M-F, 8AM-1 PM ET, S-S, 10 AM-10 PM ET.

Dr. Solomon's® Anti-Virus

Dr. Solomon’s Software Inc.

Dr. Solomon’s Anti-Virus provides the most comprehensive defense

Vjj|№ against the spread of viruses, including macro viruses. It can scan

compressed flies, and automatically protects your system against viruses
sent via e-mail or Internet download. For questions and technical assistance,
go to http://www.drsolomon.com, e-mail [e-mail], or call
888-377-6566., 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.

DVgate™

Sony Electronics

I Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK connector on your
¡system and capture your own digital still images. You can save your

I images in a variety of popular file formats. Not available on model PCG­505G. For questions and technical assistance, call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY­PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.’*

Easy Internet Access

Encompass, Inc.

Easy Internet Access provides an intuitive interface to do almost

imm

everything on the Internet: browsing, e-mail, navigating to the best sites

on the web, and interacting with multimedia content. Includes 50 free
hours of Internet access from GTE Internetworking. For questions and technical
assistance, call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week,
24 hours a day.*

" Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

Welcome

First Aid® 98

CyberMedia*. Inc.

First Aid helps to intercept crashes, fixes startup problems for Sony pre
installed applications, uses a knowledge base to find and fix additional

problems, and automatically backs up your computer’s critical
configuration files. For questions and technical assistance, call CyberMedia at
310-581-4710, M-F, 7:30am-5>M PT.

Microsoft® Internet Explorer

Microsoft Corporation

j Internet Explorer is an open, integrated suite of Internet software. The
( Setup Wizard configures your computer to connect automatically to your

chosen Internet provider. A full e-mail package allows you to send and
receive mail, including attached files. For questions and technical assistance, go
online to

http://www.microsoft.com/support/, or call Sony Electronics at

888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.*

Microsoft® Money 98

Microsoft Corporation

Display the status of your checking and savings accounts or check your

. loan and credit card balances. You can prepare budgets, receive reminders

to pay bills, and pay bills electronically. Online banking is also available.
Eor questions and technical assistance, go online to

support/, pr call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a
week, 24 hours a day.*

http://www.mlcrosoft.com/

Microsoft ■ Outlook"^ 98

Microsoft Corporation

I Microsoft Outlook manages e-mail, calendars, contacts, tasks and to-do

I lists, as well as documents or files on your hard drive. Use Outlook to

communicate through e-mail, send a fax, or schedule group meetings. For

questions and technical assistance, go online to

http://www.microsoft.com/
support/, or call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a
week, 24 hours a day.*

Microsoft® Entertainment Pack - Puzzle Collection

Microsoft Corporation

The Microsoft Entertainment Pack - Puzzle Collection is a group of 10

I

mind-bender puzzles. Fun for the puzzle enthusiast, as well as the

entire family. For questions and technical assistance, go online to http://
www.microsoft.com/support/, or call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888­476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.*

* Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Microsoft ’ Works

Microsoft Corporation

Microsoft Works is a suite of productivity tools that includes a word

I processor, spreadsheet, database, and drawing and communications

software. Use these tools to create professional documents quickly and
easily. For questions and technical assistance, go online to
http://www.microsoft.com/support/, or call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC

(888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.*

Music/Movie Player

Sony Electronics

The Music/Movie Player allows you to play audio and video CDs in the

optional CD-ROM drive or play audio or video fUes in various formats on

your hard drive. For questions and technical assistance, call Sony
Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.*

Netscape Communicator ’ Personal Edition

Netscape Communications

' Netscape Communicator is the all-in-one Internet tool that makes it easy

) to browse the web, send Internet e-mail, chat, read newsgroups, and

' compose great web documents. Netscape Communicator is the most
widely used World Wide Web browser in the world. For questions and technical
assistance, call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week,
24 houfs a day.*

Oil Change' (Sony SOS Edition)

CyberMedia^, Inc.

Mw Oil Change software is a useful companion to Sony Online Support (SOS).

Using the Internet, it provides the latest device drivers, software fixes, and

updates provided by Sony for the software titles included with your
notebook computer. For questions and technical assistance, call Sony Electronics
at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.*

PictureGear^“

Sony Electronics

I This image management software displays images from your hard drive,

i a Sony Digital Still Camera, or a Sony Mavica® Camera. The images

■ appear in a convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the
contents of an entire folder. For questions and technical assistance, call Sony
Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.*

* Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

Welcome

Quicken"' 98 Basic Edition

Intuit, Inc.

I Quicken is the fastest, easiest way to manage your finances. Quicken

works just like your checkbook, so it’s easy to learn and use. Quicken

I

manages all'of your finances — bank accounts, credit cards, investments,
loans. You can even pay your bills online. For questions and technical assistance,
call Intuit at 505-896-7222, M-F, 6 AM-6 PM MT.

ScribblePad

Sony Electronics

I Use ScribblePad to sign documents, such as faxes or letters. You can add

drawings to the clipboard or desktop by pressing the plastic pen directly

on the touchpad and drawing your image. For questions and technical
assistance, call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week,
24 hours a day.’*

Sony Digital Still Camera TWAIN Software

Sony Electronics

If you use a Sony digital still camera with your notebook computer, the software
for acquiring images is already installed. Try PhotoDeluxe, included in your
software bundle, to acquire images from your camera. For questions and technical
assistance, call Sony Electronics at 888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week,
24 hours a day.’*

System Recovery CD

Sony Electronics

The System Recovery CD allows you to restore the software titles that shipped
with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased accidentallylt can be
used only to restore the hard disk of the VAIO MicroNotebook Computer you
purchased. See “Using the System and Application Recovery CDs" on page 91
for details. For questions and technical assistance, call Sony Electronics at
888-4SONY-PC (888-476-6972), 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.’*

* Support from 1-888-4SONYPC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Ergonomic Considerations

You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a
variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to

apply the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and

portable environments.

Computer positioned
directly in front of you

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

Welcome

Furniture and posture - Sit in a chair with good back support and
armrests. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor.
A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright
posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backward.

Viewing angle of the computer’s display - Use the display’s tilting
feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and
muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper
position. Adjust the brightness settings of the display also.

Lighting - Choose a location where windows and lights do not create
glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid
bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for
your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your
comfort and work effectiveness.

Placement of an external display - When using an external display,
set the display at a comfortable viewing distance. Make sure the
display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in
front of the monitor.

10

Using Your Notebook

Computer

This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use
your computer's internal and external devices, such as the touchpad and
floppy disk drive.

Locating the Controls and Connectors

Front

Q] i-CD screen ipeges 26, 95i
1^ Microphone

Kti'/boarrl ipacjf; 22)

g Toudiperj ¡page 2;)

m Left/riqfii button (piige 27)

Speaker (page 52)

1^ Modem indicator (page 25)

Hare dsK drive indicator (page 25)

1

Num Lock indicator (page 25)

[E

Caps Lex* inci-cator (pagre 25)

Eo]

Scroll Lock InurcatO: (page 25)

0

Information indicator (page 25)

0

Battery indicator (ptiges 16, 25,74)

0

Power indicator i(pages 13, 25)

0

11

Back

0

Left

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

0 Phone iinejock ([.lage C')

I/O Port feplicatof ainnector (page 411

a a Floppy disk drive connector (page 30)

External speaker connectors (page 52)

* Available on model PCG-505GX only.

a 200 (.LINK {IEfE1394) (page 5t)’

a USB connector (page 55)

a "0 l ine In connector (page 51)

*

Ì Ueadpl'arie r,onnector (page 53)

0

Right

Using Your Notebook Computer

Q] Wared port (page 35)

i’ovver switch (page 18)

Bottom

Piogrammabie power key (page 76)

gj PC card siot (page 32)

■ Ejl VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

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

the computer.

2 Pull the prong on the AC adapter upwards and plug it into an AC

outlet.

(N)

To remove the AC adapter

1 Uhplug'the AC adapter from the AC outlet and the adapter cable

from the DC In connector on the computer.

2 Align the adapter cable with the groove on the AC adapter and wrap

the cable around the AC adapter.

Using Your Notebook Computer gy

Using Battery Power

You can use a battery pack as a source of power. The PCGA-BP51 battery
pack that comes with your computer is not fully charged at the time of
purchase. Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.

^ You can also purchase the high-capacity PCGA-BP52 battery pack as a separate option.

See "Using Power Saving Modes" on page 37 for power management information.

To insert the battery pack

1 Move the lock lever on the bottom of the computer to the unlock

position.

Lock lever

Align the grooves and tabs on the battery with the tabs and notches
on the back of the computer, and then slide the battery towards the
computer until it clicks into place.

3 Slide the lock lever into the lock position to secure the battery on the

computer.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

To charge the battery pack

■y»--

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

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator

light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the
battery is 85% full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes
approximately one and one half hours. To charge the battery completely,
continue charging for an additional hour.

A fully charged battery pack provides power for:

Model

PCGA-BP51 PCGA-BP52

PCG-505GX Approx. 1.0 to 2.5 hours Approx, 2.5 to 5.5 hours
PCG-505G

Approx. 1.5 to 3 hours

Approx. 3.5 to 6.5 hours

The time varies based on your system configuration. See “Displaying
Detailed Battery Information” on page 75 for details on checking the
battery life.

The ■ffiZI battery indicator light on the front of the computer indicates the
status of the battery pack

Battery pack
(supplied)

Battery Indicator
Light Status

On

Meaning

The computer is using battery power.

Single blink The battery is running out of power.

Double blink

The battery is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

^ Both the battery and power indicators blink when the battery is running out of power.

Using Your Notebook Computer

^ Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The

■ battery pack continues to charge while you are using the computer.

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

You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPanel
utility. See "Using Power Saving Modes" on page 37.

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

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

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer.
2 Slide the lock lever to the unlock position.
3 Slide the release lever to the unlock position and slide the battery away

from the computer.

Lock lever

^ You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not

connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery whi le the computer is in System
Suspend mode.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Starting Your Computer

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

cover.

LCD lock lever

2 Slide the power switch on the right side toward the front of the

computer until the green power indicator light turns on.

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

turns off

3 If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To

decrease the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the down or left arrow
key. To increase the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the up or right
arrow key.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Shutting Down Your Computer

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

1 Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2 Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut

Down Windows dialog box.

3 Select Shut down.
4 Click OK.

Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.

5 Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power

indicator turns off.

6 Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.

^ If you are unable to shut down your computer using the steps described above, press the

Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys at the same time to restart the computer. If you are unable to restart
the computer in this way, you can slide the power switch fonward and hold for four seconds.
This operation may result in data loss.

During a period of inactivi^, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspeod mode.
See "Controlling Power Management" on page 71.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Registering Windows^ 98

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

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

The on-screen instructions guide you through the registration and

configuration process. The following is an overview of the process.

1 Gathering informadon:

□ Enter your name.
□ Read and accept the License Agreement.
□ Enter your Certificate of Authenticity number located on the

cover of the Microsoft Windows 98 Getting Started manual.

2 Windows 98 setup:

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

3 Selecting your computer settings:

□ If necessary, change the Time Zone, Date and Time on the Date/

' Time Properties screen.

4 Learning about Windows 98:

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

Using Your Notebook Computer

Registering Your Computer

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

□ Sony Online Support - Talk to a Support Representative to

troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.

□ Extended Limited Warranty - Protect your investment. Extend your

Warranty nine months for a total of 12 months from the original date
of purchase when you register your computer.

□ Express service - Provides convenient resolution of problems.
□ Free Internet access - Use the Internet for up to 50 free hours when

you sign up with GTE (no credit card necessary). Limit of two hours

per day; free access expires 50 hours or 90 days after signing up,

whichever occurs first.

Follow these steps to use your notebook computer’s online registration

service.

You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online
registration service. See "Connecting a Phone Line" on page 40.

1 -Cliclcthe “Click Here to Begin" text in the center of the VAIO

desktop.

2 Enter the information requested on the first online registration form.

Press the Tab key to move from box to box.

3 Click the Next button to advance to the next form.
4 Complete the remaining forms by clicking the Next button each time

you complete a form.

The computer automatically transfers your registration information using

your built-in modem and a toll-free telephone number.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Keyboard

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

Escape Key

Keys Descriptions

Numeric keypad
area

Contains the keys found on a typical calculator.
Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or

Function keys

Print Screen key

to perform mathematical calculations such as
addition and subtraction. Note that you must
press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric
keypad. (When you do so, the Num Lock light

will be on.)

Navigation keys Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on

the screen (the four arrow keys which also
function as the Home, End, Page Up, and Page
Down keys).

Correction keys The Insert, Back Space, and Delete keys enable

you to make corrections in your documents.

Function keys

The twelve function keys along the top of the
keyboard are used to perform designated tasks.
For example, in many applications, FI is the Help
key. The task associated with each function key
may vary from one application to the next.

-yt~-

Using Your Notebook Computer

Keys

Escape key

Print Screen key

Operator keys

Windows 98 key

Fn key

Applications key

a

Descriptions

The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel conamands
The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot

■of the screen and places it in the Windows
Clipboard. You can then paste the screen shot into
a document and print it.

Several keys are always used with at least one
other key. Ctrl, Alt, and Shift. When held down
with another key, the Ctrl (Control) and Alt
(Alternate) keys offer another way to give
commands. For example, in many applications,
instead of choosing the Save command from a
menu, you can hold down Ctrl and press S
(referred to as Ctrl+S). The Shift key operates the
same way as on a typewriter; it’s used to produce
capital letters or special symbols such as @ and $.

The key with the Windows logo displays the

Windows 98 Start menu; it’s the equivalent of
clicking the Start button on the task bar. See

“Combinations and Functions with the Windows

98 Key” on page 24.
The Fn key is used in combination with other keys

to issue commands. The Fn keys at the left and
right sides both work the same. See

“Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key”

on page 26.

The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of

context-sensitive choices; pressing this key is the
equivalent of clicking the right mouse button.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key

Combinations Functions

10 + FI
0 +Tab
0 + E Displays Windows Explorer.
0 + F

0 + Ctrl + F

0 + M Minimizes all displayed windows.

Shift + 0 + M

0 +R

Fn + 0 + Insert

Displays Windows Help.
Switches the selected button on the taskbar.

Displays the Windows Find: All Files window
to find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of
selecting Find and then Files or Folders from
the Start menu.

Displays the Windows Find: Computer
window where you can locate other
computers. This is the equivalent of selecting
Find and then Computer from the Start menu.

Returns all minimized windows to their
previous size.

Displays the Run window. This is the

equivalent of selecting Run from the Start
menu.

Displays the Properties window. This is the

equivalent of double-clicking the System icon
in the Control Panel.

Indicators

1

Using Your Notebook Computer

Indicators

Information

Battery

■EZl

Power

*

Light On Off

Modem Turns on when the modem

Hard disk 0Lights when data is being

Num LockaTurns on when the number

Caps Lock Turns on when the letters Turns off when letters

a

Scroll
Lock

a

Functions

Turns on when the PPK Timer is set. Turns off

when the PPK Timer is not set or the PPK Timer

setting is inactive. (Such as when the computer’s
power is off or in System Hibernation mode.)

Indicates the status of the battery attached at the

rear of the computer.

Lights when the power to the computer is turned
on. Flashes in System Suspend mode.

Turns off when the computer is in System
Hibernation mode or powered off.

Turns off when the modem

is in use.

read from or written to the
hard drive. Do not enter
System Suspend mode or
turn off the computer when
this indicator light is on.

keys area in the numeric
keypad are active.

appear in uppercase as you
type. The Shift key lowers
the case of typed letters
when Caps Lock is on.

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

is not in use.
Turns off when the hard

drive is not being accessed.

Turns off when the
alphanumeric character keys
in the keypad area are
active.

appear in lower case as you
type (unless you hold down
the Shift key).

Turns off when information
moves across the display
normally.

№^¡9 VAIO MIcroNotebook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Combinations/
Feature

Fn+ (ESC)
System Suspend

Fn+ Ca (F2)
Display power status

Fn+ ^ (F3)
Speaker switch

Fn+ (F4)
Speaker volume

Fn+ -Jfr (F5)
Brightness control

Fn+ [Id]/■ (F7)
Switch to the
external display

Fn+ ^-0 (F12)

System Hibernation

Fn+D
Video standby

Fn+F
Change the display size

Functions

Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a
power management state. To return the system
to the active state, press any key or press the
power switch on your computer.

Displays the power status, as in the example
below:

Using AC
power

Toggles the built-in speaker off and on.

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
To increase volume, press Fn-i-F4, theni or-^.

To decrease volume, press Fn-i-F4, then J- or<. .
Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

To increase light intensity, press Fn-i-F5 and then

T or->.

To decrease light intensity, press Fn-i-F5 and
then J- or .

Toggles through the LCD, external display

(connected to the CD Monitor connector on the

port replicator) and both LCD and external
display.

Only LCD

------

► LCD and external display —r

^

--------------

Only external display -4----------------------------1

Provides for the lowest level of power
consumption. When you execute this command,
the state of the system and state of the
peripheral devices are written to the hard disk
and the system power is turned off. To return
the system to the original state, use the power
switch to turn on power.

Turns off the LCD in order to save power.

Zooms the display size in or out when the
display is set to 640 x 480 display mode.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Using the Touchpad

The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device called a touchpad. You
can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built­in touchpad.

Actions

Descriptions

Point Slide one finger on the touchpad to place the pointer on an item

or object.
Click Press the left button once.
Double-click
Right-click

Press the left button twice.

Press the right button once. In many applications, this action

displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive choices.

Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button.
Scroll

ife) The scroll function is available only with applications that support a touchpad scroll feature.

Move your finger along the right edge of the touchpad.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Plastic Pen

The plastic pen, located in the vinyl bag with your Getting Started manual,
can be used on the touchpad for drawing or for signing your name with
the ScribblePad software. You can store the pen in the pen compartment
on the left side of the LCD screen.

To use the pen compartment

1 Press the bottom of the pen compartment to open the compartment.

2 Slide the pen in or out of the compartment to store or remove it.
3 When you are ready to close the pen compartment, press the top of

the compartment until it clicks into place.

The supplied plastic pen is designed to be used only on the touchpad. Do not use this pen
on any surface other than the touchpad including the computer's LCD; it may damage the
LCD.

Store the pen in the pen compartment when you are not using it.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Using ScribblePad

ScribblePad is an application that lets you create memos by writing on the
touchpad using the supplied plastic pen.

To use ScribblePad

1 Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.
2 Point to Software Center, point to Applications, and then click

ScribblePad.

3 Press the FIO key.

ScribblePad enters tablet mode. In this mode the touchpad
corresponds with the ScribblePad screen. This means that what you
write on the touchpad appears on the screen in the corresponding
location. For example, when you write letters on the left corner of the
touchpad, the letters appear on the left corner of the screen.

4 To write, move the pen slowly on the touchpad.

When you remove the pen from the touchpad, the letters you wrote
on the touchpad appear on the screen.

You can also use the computer's keyboard to enter letters, and the
Backspace or Delete keys to delete letters.

^ To learn more about ScribblePad, click Help on the ScribblePad

screen to display the online help file.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Floppy Disk Drive

You can connect the floppy disk drive to the FDD connector on your
computer:

To connect the floppy disk drive

1 Turn off the computer.
2 Open the cover of the 0 Floppy disk drive connector.
3 Plug the floppy disk drive cable into the 0 FDD connector. The

VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing up.

To insert a diskette ■

1 Hold the diskette with the label side facing up.

2 Gendy push the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.

Diskette

Using Your Notebook Computer

To remove a diskette

□ When you finish using the diskette, wait until the LED indicator

turns off and then press the Eject button to remove the diskette.

Eject button

LED indicator

To remove the floppy disk drive

1

Turn off the computer.

2

Press both sides of the floppy disk drive cable and unplug the cable
from tbe computer.

3 Fold the floppy disk drive cable into the compartment on the side of

the floppy disk drive.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using PC Cards

Your computer includes a PC card slot. PC cards allow you to connect
portable external devices, such as a CD-ROM drive, additional memory,
or to connect to a network.

^ The PC card slot can accommodate one Type II PC card. This slot is compatible with Card

Bus and ZV (Zoomed Video) port.
Some PC cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC card. You can

use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See "Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup
Screen" on page 69 for details.

Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC card manufacturer.

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

To insert a PC card

^ You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC card.

1 Pull the PC card release button up away from the computer and push

it in towards the computer.

Using Your Notebook Computer

2 Remove the PC card slot protector.

Insert the PC card into the PC card slot, front label facing up. Gently
push the card into the slot until the card is fixed into the connector.
The release button comes out.

^ Do not force a card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins.

If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are inserting the card with the correct

: orientation. .

See the manual that came with your PC card for more information on its use.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

To remove a PC card

1 Close any applications that use the PC card. Otherwise data may be

lost.

2 Click the PC card icon in the taskbar and close the card.

3 Pull the PC card release button up and press it in towards the

computer.

4 Gently grasp the card and pull it out.
5 Insert the PC card slot protector into the empty slot.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Using Infrared Communication Devices

Your computer includes an infrared port, located on the right side of the
computer. You can use this port to communicate with other infrared­equipped devices with compatible protocols, such as a digital still camera
or other computers.

Jo use infrared communication witti a digital still camera

Align the infrared ports on the computer and the digital camera so that
they are in a direct line.

To use infrared communication with another computer

Align the infrared ports on the two computers so that they are in a direct
line.

^ Infrared communication capability can be turned on and off. By default, it is not enabled

when your system is shipped. To enable infrared use, click the Infrared icon in the Windows
Control Panel, and select the Enable infrared communication checkbox on the Options tab.

You can disable infrared communication when you are not using it to conserve battery life.

- Use the Infrared icon in the Windows Control Panel to enable and disable infrared
communication. Do not use the icon in the taskbar.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

When you transfer files directly from devices other than the internal hard disk drive, such as
a-CD-ROM drive or hard disk drive on a network, set the System Suspend and System
Hibernation timers to off.

Check the Status tag of the Infrared Monitor in the Windows Control Panel to determine if
the infrared device is detected.

If the two devices are too far apart or too close together, data transfer may be interrupted
or there may be noise in the transmission.

Do not cover the infrared ports with your hand or any other objects.

Avoid direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing incandescent light near the infrared

ports.

See the manual that came with your digital still camera or other infrared communication
device for more information on installation and use.

The active area of infrared transmission extends about 39Vj inches (1 m) with a radius of 15
degrees.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Using Power Saving Modes

When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, you
can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery
life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn
off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes;
System Suspend and System Hibernation. When using battery power,
you should be aware that the computer automatically enters System
Hibernation mode when the remaining battery charge drops below 7%,
regardless of the power management setting you select.

If your battery level falls to less than 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to
recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fuily charged battery.

Normal Mode

This is the normal state of your computer when it is in use. The green

power indicator light is on in this mode. To save power, you can turn off
a specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk.

^ For details, see “Controlling Power Management" on page 71,

System Suspend Mode

The'computer saves the current state of the system in RAM and switches

off power to the CPU. The amber power indicator light flashes in this
mode.

To activate System Suspend mode

Press Fn+Esc, or you can slide the power switch forward and release the
switch immediately. You can also use the PowerPanel utility to enter
System Suspend mode.

To return to normal mode

Press any key.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

■y»~-

System Hibernation Mode

The state of the system is saved on the hard drive and power is turned
off. The power indicator light is off in this mode.

To activate System Hibernation mode

Press Fn+F12. You can also use the PowerPanel utility to enter System
Hibernation mode.

To return to normal mode

Turn on the computer by sliding the power switch forward. The

computer returns to its previous state.

^ When returning from System Hibernation mode, the system status stored on the hard disk is

erased and the computer starts normally if you slide the power switch forward and hold for
more than four seconds.

□ Time to return to normal mode:

System Suspend requires less time than System Hibernation

□ Power consumption:

System Suspend uses more power than System Hibernation

Connecting Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of these
peripherals;

□ Phone line (page 40)
□ Port replicator (page 41)

□ Printer (page 43)
□ External display (page 44)
□ External mouse or keyboard (page 46)

□ Desktop computer or serial device (page 47)
□ CD-ROM drive (page 49)
□ External speakers (page 52)
□ Digital video camera recorder (page 54)
□ Universal Serial Bus (USB) device (page 55)

^ Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals.

Connect the AC adapter only after connecting all cables.

Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.

39

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Phone Line

You need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services, the
Internet, and Sony Online Support.

In order to register your Sony VAIO MicroNotebook Computer, register your software
online, and use Sony Online Support, you must connect to a phone line. Also, you must
register your computer to receive the extended warranty.

1 Open the phone line jack cover. The cover opens only to a 45 degree

angle.

2 Plug one end of the phone cable into the jack on the inside of the

phone line jack cover. Make sure you insert the phone cable from the
rear of the computer and that the modular jack clicks into place.

3 Plug the other end into the wall jack.

^ Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated

telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX).
Some of these connections might result in excess electrical current and could cause a
malfunction in the internal modem.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting the Port Replicator

You can use the PCGA-PR5 port replicator (supplied) to connect
peripheral devices such as a printer or external display.

Q] a Printeiipaqeii)

D Monitor, (pagfc 4^)

^ Moijsti (page 46)

[4] Kevtioard ipaue 46)

[U laa Serial {page 47)

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

To attach the port replicator

1 Turn off the computer.
2 Open the port replicator connector cover on the left side of the

computer.

3 Plug the port replicator cable into the port replicator connector on the

computer.

To remove the port replicator

1 Turn offthe computer.
2 Press both sides of the port replicator cable and unplug the cable

from the computer.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

3 Fold the port replicator cable into the compartment on the side of the

port replicator.

If you do notturn off the computer before removing the port replicator, you must turn off
the computer before reattaching the port replicator.

Connecting a Printer

You can use the port replicator to connect a Windows 98-compatible
printer or other parallel port device to your computer.

To connect a printer

□ Use th^ & symbol to locate the Printer connector on the port

replicator. Plug the printer cable (supplied with the printer) into this
connector.

^ See the manual that came with your printer for more information on installation and use.

Before using the printer, you may need to change the Printer setting in the Sony Notebook
Setup software. See" Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen" on page 69.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Connecting an External Display

You can use the port replicator to connect an external display to your

notebook computer. For example, you can use the computer with any of

the following:
□ Computer display (monitor) (page 44)

□ Projector (page 45)

To connect a computer display

□ Use the O symbol on the port replicator to locate the Monitor

connector. Plug the display cable into this connector.

□ If necessary, plug one end of the display power cord into the display,

and the other end into an AC outlet.

to your computer

r

to O

Monitor

Computer display

Display cable

^ See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on installation

and use.

Power cord

Connecting Peripheral Devices

To connect a projector

You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD

Projector.

1 Use the O symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Plug the RGB

signal cable into this connector.

2 Use the 0 symbol to locate the Headphone connector. Plug the audio

cable into this connector.

^ See the manual that came with your projector for more information on installation and use.

To select a display

When you connect an external display to the monitor connector, you can
press Fn+F7 to toggle the output between the Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD), the external monitor, or both devices. See “Selecting the Display
Mode” on page 78 for more information.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Connecting an External Mouse and Keyboard

You can use the port replicator to connect an external mouse and

keyboard to your computer. The Mouse and Keyboard connectors
require a PS/2™-style plug or adapter.

To connect an external mouse and keyboard

1 Turn off the computer.
2 Use the 6 and ™ symbols to locate the Mouse and Keyboard

connectors. Plug the mouse cable and keyboard cable into these
connectors with the ♦ mark facing up.

to your computer

Mouse

^ See "Using the Keyboard" on page 22 for more information on using the keyboard.

See the manual that came with your mouse or keyboard for more information on
installation and use.

Before you connect or disconnect the mouse or keyboard, turn off the computer.

Before connecting a mouse to the Serial port, make sure the mouse is compatible with a

Serial port.

You cannot use the built-in touchpad and an external mouse at the same time.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Desktop Computer or Serial Device

You can use the port replicator to connect your notebook computer to
another computer, or to connect other peripherals, such as the Sony
Digital Still Camera.

To connect a desktop computer

□ Use the loioi symbol to locate the Serial connector. Plug the connecting

cable into this port on the port replicator and into the serial port on
the desktop computer.

to your computer

r

^ © © aC

to lOiOl
Serial

3

Serial cable
(not supplied)

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

To connect a digital still camera

□ Use the loo symbol to locate the Serial connector. Plug the connecting

cable into this port on the port replicator and into the Digital I/O
connector on the digital still camera.

(not supplied)

The Sony Digital Still Camera (DSC-F1) Is pictured: you may need to connect your camera
differently.

See the manual that came with your digital camera or other serial device for more
information on instaliation and use.

?ou can’connect the DSC-FI to your computer either through the Serial port or by using
infrared communication.

If you use a digital camera that has an infrared data communication system or other
infrared communication device, see "Using Infrared Communication Devices" on page 35.

Connecting Peripheral Devices gQ

Connecting the CD-ROM Drive

You can use the optional PCGA-CD5 CD-ROM drive with your notebook
computer.

To connect the CD-ROM drive

1 Turn off your computer.

2 Remove the PC card slot protector from the PC card slot. See “Using

PC Cards” on page 32 for details.

3 Connect the CD-ROM drive cable to the PC card supplied with the

CD-ROM drive.

, drive iable

4 Insert the PC card into the PC card slot with the label side facing up.

See “Using PC Cards” on page 32 for details.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

-yt~-

5 Connect the CD-ROM drive AC power adapter to the CD-ROM drive

and plug the AC adapter into an AC outlet.

to AC outlet

^ The pick-up cover is attached to the iens of the CD-ROM drive at the factory. Before using

the CD-ROM drive, remove the pick-up cover.

To Insert a CD-ROM disc

1 Slide the power switch to the on position.

2 Slide the Open button in the direction of the arrow to open the

CD-ROM drive lid.

Place the CD-ROM disc in the tray with the label side facing up. Push
the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks into place.

^ Be sure to seat the CD-ROM disc firmly over the CD-ROM drive hub fingers. If you do not

seat the disc firmly, you could damage your CD-ROM drive and you may not be able to open
the CD-ROM drive lid.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

4 Gently press on the CD-ROM drive lid until it clicks shut

To play an audio CD in the CD-ROM drive

In addition to connecting the CD-ROM drive to your computer, you must
connect the drive to the computer with a male-to-male stereo mini plug
(not supplied).

1 Connect one end of the stereo mini plug to the headphone jack on the

CD-ROM drive and the other end to the Line In jack on the left side of
your computer.

2 Right-click the speaker icon on the taskbar and select Open Volume

Control from the shortcut menu. The Volume Control window opens.

3 Drag the Line In slider to adjust the volume.

To remove the CD-ROM drive

□ Remove the PC card from the computer. See “Using PC Cards” on

page 32 for details.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Connecting External Speakers

You can use the optional PCGA-SP5 stereo speakers with your computer
or other speakers designed for computer use.

^ Turn down the volume of the speakers before you connect them.

To adjust the speaker volume, press Fn+F4. See "Combinations and Functions with the Fn
Key" on page 26 for details.

Do not place diskettes on the speakers; the speaker's magnetic field may damage the data
on the diskettes.

The internal speaker does not work when the external speakers are connected.

To connect the PCGA-SP5 stereo speakers

□ Insert the speakers into the slots on the sides of the display.

-Stereo speakers

(optional)

Connecting Peripheral Devices

To connect other external speakers

□ Use the D symbol to locate the Headphone connector. Plug the

speaker cable into this connector.

^ See the manual that came with your speakers for more information on installation and use.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder

You can connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK™

(IEEE 1394) connector on your computer.

To connect a digital video camera recorder

□ Plug one end of an i.LINK cable into the 200 ^connector on the left

side of the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out connector
on the digital video camera recorder.

^ The Sony digital video camera recorder (DCR-PC7) is pictured; your digital video camera

recorder may need, to be connected differently.
On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled "DV In/Out" or "i.LINK" are i.LINK-

compatlbla

See the manual that came with your digital video camera recorder for more information on

installation and use.

The i.LINK connector does not supply power to external devices. If the external device
requires power from the i.LINK connector, you cannot use the device with your computer.

The VAIO MicroNotebook Computer supports transfer rates up to 200 Mbps; however, the
actual transfer rate is the lowest transfer rate of the external device.

The i.LINK features available may vary depending on the software applications you use. See
the documentation that came with your software for more information.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

You can connect a USB device to your computer.

To connect a USB device

□ Use the 'I' symbol to locate the USB connector on the left side of the

computer. Plug one end of a USB cable into this port and the other
end into the USB device.

See the manual that came with your USB device for more information on installation and
use.

When you enable the PowerPanel setting that allows the computer to enter System
Suspend mode or System Hibernation mode, your computer may enter System Suspend
mo4e or System Hibernation mode while you are using a USB device, such as a USB mouse
or a USB keytoard. Therefore, when using a USB device, select the AC Profile or change the
profile setting in PowerPanel so that the computer does not enter System Suspend mode or
System Hibernation mode. The default AG Profile settings do not allow the computer to
enter System Suspend mode or System Hibernation mode. For details, see the PowerPanel
Help.

56

Getting Started With

VAIO Space

VAIO Space is Sony’s original utility that organizes the preinstalled
applications on your VAIO Notebook Computer, making it easier for you
to find and launch the a pplications on your computer, use the Sony audio
and video players, connect to the Internet, and more.

\starting VAIO Space

To start VAIO Space

□ Click the VAIO Space icon on the Windows desktop.

The VAIO Launcher appears, which includes icons for the five
VAIO Space centers:

Software Cenier

.AudiO'Viceo Center

Online Center

Tool Center

Help Center

57

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

VAIO Space Centers

There are five centers within VAIO Space, as follows:

Center Name and Icon.

Software
Center

Audio­Video
Center

Online jn
Center H

Tool

Center

Help

Center

Contains Description

Applications Contains icons for all
Accessories preinstalled applications and

accessories.

See“Using the Software Center”
on page 61 for details.

Video Launches the video and audio
Audio applications included with

your computer.

See “Using the Audio-Video
Center" on page 62 for details.

Easv Internet

^^^B””VAIO Direct Internet.

Club VAIO
ImageStation
Internet

Tools Provides tools that help you
Options analyze and fix system-related

Help Center Contains links to various

Allows you to connect to the

See “Using the Online Center”
on page 65 for details.

problems.

See “Using the Tool Center” on
page 66 for details.

sources of help for your
computer.

See “Using the Help Center” on
page 68 for details.

Getting Started With VAIO Space

Navigating through VAIO Space

To go to a center within VAIO Space

1 Move the mouse pointer over an icon on the VAIO Launcher.

Categories for each center appear.

Moving the

categories

mou50

oiprogiams

that icon

over

----

the icoh displays the

for

k

2 Click the category text (such as Applications) to open the VAIO

screen.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

VAIO Space Controls

Button Function

mm

B

Goes to the previous screen or page in a sequence.
Unavailable until you go to another screen.

Goes to the next screen or page in a sequence. Unavailable
on the last screen in a sequence.

Stops loading the current page (used for web pages).

Mi

Refreshes the current page (used for web pages).

Displays the current website address (URL) or file name
path. You can also type an address or path in this box.

B8

Minimizes, maximizes/restores, and closes VAIO Space.
Shows/hides the VAIO Launcher. Provides the maximum

area for viewing pages.

191

Opens another VAIO Launcher. This is useful if you want
to perform two simultaneous operations, such as
launching an application while watching a video.

Shows/hides the VAIO screen. Provides the maximum
view of the desktop.

jjgjjjjjjjjjjj^ Animates when a web page is loading.

Getting Started With VAIO Space

Using the Software Center

To launch the Software Center

1 Move the mouse pointer over the Software Center icon on the VAIO

Launcher.

2 Click the text of the category (Applications or Accessories) to open

the VAIO screen.

3 To start an application, click the icon.

Other Software Center Functions
Action

Display information about a program.

Display questions and answers about the

highlighted program.

Create and save notes about the
highlighted program.

Display a help or readme file about the
highlighted program.

Add an application icon to the Software
Center.

Remove an application icon from the
Software Center.

Procedure

Move the mouse pointer over the

program icon.

(grayed out when unavailable)

Click ДНИ!

Click HMI

(grayed out when unavailable)

Drag and drop an application icon
from anywhere within Windows
onto the VAIO screen.

Drag and drop an application icon
from the Software Center to the

Windows Recycle Bin.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Audio-Video Center

The Audio-Video Center includes the following programs:

Program Description

Video Piays MPEG (.mpg), MPEG2 (.vob) and AVI (.avi) video flies.
Audio Music/Movie Player, which plays audio tracks from the optional

CD-ROM drive and a variety of audio and video file formats
including: WAV (.wav), MIDI (.mid), and RMI (.rmi) audio flies
and MPEG (.mpg). Quick Time (.mov), and AVI (.avi) video flies.

^ To listen to an audio CD, you must connect the CD-ROM drive to the computer using a stereo

mini plug. See "To play an audio CD in the CD-ROM drive" on page 51 for details.

Using the Video Player

The Video Player plays MPEG (.mpg), MPEG2 (.vob) and AVI (.avi)
video files.

To play a video file

1 Move the mouse pointer over the Audio-Video Center icon on the

VAIO Launcher.

2 Click Video in the VAIO Launcher. The Video Player launches and

begins playing.-

Getting Started With VAIO Space

To play a different video file

1 Click the Play List button.
2 Select one or more video files from the AV PlayList dialog box.
3 Click ADD.
4 Click OK.

The video file begins playing automatically.

Other Video Player Functions
Action

Procedure

Toggle the sound on and off Click the muteil button. (Green

light indicates sound is muted.)

Stop play

Pause play
Go to the next video file in the playlist

Go to the previous video file in the

Click ^91 (Stop).
Click IH (Pause).
Click m (Next).

Click loj (Previous).

playlist
Play full screen

ClickH (full screen).
Create a playlist Click the Play List button.
Adjust thè volume Drag the volume slider up and down,

Using the Music/Movie Player

The Music/Movie Player allows you to play audio and video from a CD
in the optional CD-ROM drive, or from audio or video files in various
formats on your hard drive.

^ To listen to an audio CD, you must connect the CD-ROM drive to the computer using a stereo

mini plug. See "To play an audio CD in the CD-ROM drive" on page 51 for details.

To start Music/Movie Player

1 Move the mouse pointer over the Audio-Video Center icon on the

VAIO Launcher.

2 Click Audio in the VAIO Launcher.

The Control bar appears across the top of the screen, with buttons
similar to the controls on a VCR or CD-player remote control.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

To expand the Control bar

You can expand the Control bar to double-height to access more
functions by clicking the Expand button ( ▼) at the far right. To return to
single height, click the Restore button ( A).

To change the Control bar to a floating window

To change the Control bar into a floating window, drag the bar to the
center of the screen. The bar opens into a window with File, Control, and
Help menus.

MusiQ/Moyie Player Functions

You can use the Control bar to:
□ Start and stop the playback of audio or video CDs or files.

□ Navigate through selections on a CD.
□ Pause and resume playback at the point where play left off.
□ Set up automatic playback modes, including:

□ Repeat all of the selections in order.
□ Repeat a single selection.
□ Play all of the selections in a random order.

Video images display in a separate Movie window, which you can move
and resize. You can also add a variety of visual effects to the images in the
Movie window. If the CD supports PlayBack Control (for example. Video
CD format), you can select specific scenes or still images by their assigned
numbers.

The Music/Movie Player features extensive and detailed online help. To access online help,
right-clicfe the Control bar and select Help from the shortcut menu.

Getting Started With VAIO Space

Using the Online Center

To launch the Online Center

1 Move the mouse pointer over the Online Center icon on the VAIO

Launcher.

2 Click the text of the category as described below.

Category

Easy Internet

VAIO Direct

Club VAIO Find out the latest developments in the world of

ImageStation

Internet

Description

Provides an intuitive interface to do almost
everything on the Internet: browsing, e-mail,
navigating to the best sites on the web, and
interacting with multimedia content. Includes 50
free hours of Internet access from GTE
Internetworking. (No credit card needed.)

Sony offers an entire line of products specifically
designed to work with your computer.

VAIO: interact with other VAIO users.

A direct link to Sony’s online digital Imaging
service, where you can share your images in
whole new ways on the Internet.

Shortcuts to all your Internet applications.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Tool Center

Using Tool Center. Tools

1 Move the mouse pointer over the Tool Center icon on the VAIO

Launcher.

2 Click Tools to open the VAIO screen.
3 To start a program or accessory application, click the icon.

Other Tool Functions

Action

Procedure

Display information about a program. Move the mouse pointer over the

program icon.

Display questions and answers about the

Click Hmyill

highlighted program.

(grayed out when unavailable)

Create and save notes about the

Click mmi

highlighted program.
Display a help or readme file about the

Click mi

highlighted program.

(grayed out when unavailable)

Add an application icon to the Tool
Center.

Drag and drop an application icon
from anywhere within Windows
and onto the VAIO screen.

Remove an application icon from the
Tool Center.

Drag and drop an application icon
from the Tool Center to the
Windows Recycle Bin.

Getting Started With VAIO Space

Using Tool Center Options

The Options screen lets you customize the way VAIO Space works.

To set VAIO Space options

1

Move the mouse pointer over the Tool Center icon on the VAIO
Launcher.

2

Click Options to open the VAIO screen.

3

Set the options as follows:

Option Check. This To

Launch VAIO Space II at
Startup

Disable Click Sounds

Default Page Set which screen appears when VAIO

4 Click Apply.

Launch VAIO Space automatically when
you turn on your computer. Default is off

(VAIO Space does not launch at startup).
Turn off the click sounds in VAIO Space.

Default is off (sounds are turned on).

Space is launched. Default is Applications
page.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Using the Help Center

The Help Center steps you through a number of options including the
electronic documentation included on your hard drive, finding answers
on Sony’s Internet site, using the First Aid and Oil Change applications,
and calling Sony Online Support. For a complete description of all the
help options available, see “Getting Help” on page 81.

To launch the Help Center:

1 Move the mouse pointer over the Help Center icon on the VAIO

Launcher.

2 Click Help Center to open the VAIO screen.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions to find the appropriate source of

help for the problem you are having.

Exiting VAIO Space

To exit VAIO Space

□ Click the 13 (Close) button.

Customizing Your Notebook Computer

You can customize the settings of your notebook computer. The
following sections briefly describe how to change your computer’s
default settings. You can also refer to the Sony Notebook Setup Help for
more detailed information.

Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen

To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen:

1 Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.
2 Point to Tool Center and click Sony Notebook Setup.

....

IM

SONY; . ;::r:

3 Select the tab for the item you want to change. See “Notebook Setup

Tabs” on page 70.

4 After you finish, click OK.

69

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Notebook Setup Tabs

Tab Descriptions

About This Computer

Infrared Change the infrared communication settings

Printer Change printer port mode settings.
Power On

Device Sequence
Power On Password Set the password to secure your computer.

Enable Ports Change the hardware resources such as I/O

Basic/Advanced Toggle between Advanced mode (additional screens

Display system information, including memory

capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.

depending on the infrared equipment your
computer is using to communicate.

Select the order of drives and devices from which
you want to load the operating system.

address, IRQ, or DMA depending on the optional
hardware or software you use. Disabling ports
releases resources to the system. To change the
serial, audio, and modem settings, click Advanced
on the Basic/Advanced tab.

with advanced settings) and Basic mode of display.
Advanced mode includes Serial, Audio, Built-in
Modem, and View Resources tabs.

^ For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to

display the help file.

Customizing Your Notebook Computer

Controlling Power Management

Thé PowerPanel utility allows you to control the power management of
your notebook computer and provides key information about system
activity and battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to
conserve your computer’s battery power. You can also refer to the
PowerPanel Help for more detailed information.

Power Management Profiles

PowerPanel provides several predefined power management profiles.
Each profile consists of a group of specific power management settings
that are designed to meet specific power management goals—ranging
from maximum power management to no power management. You can
change the settings for any of the predefined profiles or you can create

your own profile to suit your portable computing needs. The predefined

profiles are:

Icon Description

Maximum Performance- Provides the best system performance
while still conserving power.

Maximum Battery Life - Provides power saving features to give

. you maximum battery life and good performance. It slows the

computer and puts it into System Suspend mode after a specified
time period.

Power Management Off - Turns off all power management
features such as System Suspend and System Hibernation modes.

AC Profile - The power management state when AC power is in
use. Similar to the Power Management Off setting. PowerPanel
automatically loads the AC profile unless you disable this feature.

Games - Disables the display and the Hard Disk Spindle Down
timer.

Presentation - Keeps the display on at all tlmes^while it conserves
power. This option is ideal for slide show presentations. You can
establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and
System Suspend to optimize power management for your system.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Word Processing - Optimizes power management with longer
timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish
settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and System
Suspend to optimize power management for your system.

Communications - Extends battery life by initiating a quick display
timeout. The Internal modem remains powered. You can also
establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and
System Suspend to optimize power management for your system.

Power Management Commands

PowerPanel also provides power management commands that you can
use to activate specific power management functions and to control
power for a specific device. You might use these commands when you
want to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action, such as
putting the system into Video Standby mode before the Video Standby
timer expires.

System Suspend - Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a
power management state that saves the state of the system and
peripheral devices in memory (RAM). Power consumption reduces
to a minimum, and the system remains on. To return the system to
the active state, press any key or the power switch on your
computer.

System Hibernation - Provides for the lowest level of power
consumption. The system writes the state of the system and
peripheral devices to the hard disk and turns off the system power.
To return the system to the original state, use the power switch to
turn on power. The system saves the data in the Save to Disk
Partition on the hard drive.

LCD (Video) Standby - Turns off the LCD to save power. If you
turn off the Video Standby timer, the display remains active except
when the system enters System Suspend mode. The video display
system is one of the largest consumers of power in the system.

Hard Disk Sleep - Turns off the hard disk spindle motor.
Although you can manually turn off the power to the hard disk _
through this command, any system request to the hard disk turns
on the power to the hard disk.

Customizing Your Notebook Computer

Speed Controller - Controls the speed at which the CPU performs.
Click this button to open the Speed Controller dialog box. When

you select the Auto checkbox, the CPU performs at full speed while

the system is active and at 25% of full speed during periods of

inactivity. Auto is the recommended option. You can also choose to
run the CPU at 100%, 75%, 50%, or 25% of full speed regardless of
whether the system is active or inactive. Using this command can

help conserve battery power.
PC Card - Controls the PC card sockets. Click this button to open

the PC Card (PCMCIA) Properties dialog box. You can view the

properties for the PC cards.

To activate PowerPanel

1 Double-click the B (PowerPanel) icon on the taskbar.

The Profiles toolbar appears. When you move the pointer over the

atom icon on the taskbar, a tooltip with the name of the active power
management profile appears.

I

2 Click the button you want to set.

The power management settings associated with the profile you
select become active.

To display the Commands toolbar, right-click an empty portion of the toolbar and select
Commands from the shortcut menu. Refer to the PowerPanel Help for information on
customizing the PowerPanel toolbars.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Displaying Battery Information

You can display detailed information for the battery in your computer.
The following sections briefly describe how to display your computer’s
general battery information. You can also refer to the BatteryScope Help
for more detailed information.

Activating BatteryScope

To activate BatteryScope

1 Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2 Point to Tool Center and click BatteryScope.

When you move the pointer over the battery icon on the taskbar, a

tooltip appears indicating the total capacity remaining in the battery
and the estimated time until the battery fully discharges.

You can also view battery gauges on the shared PowerPanel and
BatteryScope toolbar.

Percentage indicator

Displays the percentage of the remaining capacity.

□ Time indicator

Displays estimated time (hours/minutes) remaining before the
battery fully drains, also referred to as the time-to-empty.

Battery Icon Descriptions

Ba ttery icon Ba ttery status

Discharging

Charging

No battery

$

Customizing Your Notebook Computer f

Displaying Detailed Battery Information

You can obtain detailed information about the batteries.
□ Click the battery icon on the toolbar to display the BatteryScope

window.
The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains

information such as the estimated time-to-empty and the charging
time.

To customize the BatteryScope toolbar and alarm system

You can customize the BatteryScope toolbar to suit your portable
computing needs, including modifications to the alarm settings. Refer to
the BatteryScope Help for more information.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Starting Your Favorite Software With Programmable Power Key (PPK) Setup

The PPK Setup software enables you to start your favorite software by
simply pressing the programmable power key.

Programmable
power key

This section briefly describes how to use the programmable power key.
You can also refer to the PPK Setup Help for more detailed information.

To use the PPK Setup screen:

1 Double-click the PPK Setup icon on the taskbar. The PPK Setup

screen appears.

k(lK

it«l

J

J Jl- j .-U'-J ■

■

■■ ■♦ '* « \ ii". •-i'-"- ■ - I

Customizing Your Notebook Computer MMM

2 Select the software title you want PPK to launch automatically from

the Registered Files list and right-click. The Setup options screen
appears.

3 Click Set as PPK launch file. The Happears next to the selected

software title.

4 Click OK.

The default settings for PPK do not allow you to start the selected software when the

computer's LCD is closed. To start the selected software while the LCD is closed, click the
Enable/Disable tab and select Enable PPK even if LCD Panel is closed. Be aware, however
that the software can now start accidentally if you press the programmable power key when
you carry the computer.

Using the Programmable Power Key With Other Keys

You can also choose to start other applications by pressing the
programmable power key in combination with the Alt, Ctrl, or Shift keys.

To select the key combination, right-click the application you want to
start and select an item from the menu. When you select Set as PPK
launch file, you can turn on the power and start the selected application
by just pressing the programmable power key. When you select Set as
Alt-i-PPK launch file. Set as Ctrl-i-PPK launch file, or Set as Shift-i-PPK
launch file, you need to turn on the computer to use these functions.

Using the internaj timer:

You can use the internal timer to start software at a specific time. You can
use this feature when the computer is in normal, system suspend mode.

^ If the computer’s LCD is closed, you cannot use the internal timer to start software using

the default settings. To start software while the LCD is closed, click the Enable/Disable tab
and select the checkbox next to Enable Timer launch even if LCD Panel is closed.

It may take some time to actually start the software. It is advised that you confirm the time

your selected software takes to start.

When selecting software that uses a phone line: The computer may not be able to

disconnect the phone line due to communication and server conditions. Be sure to monitor
the status of the software when running PPK Setup, and manually disconnect the phone
line if you notice a malfunction. Furthermore, when using the timer to start the software, it

' is advised that you set the computer to enter system suspend or system hibernation mode

after a certain time. This allows the computer to disconnect the phone line if the computer

fails to disconnect the line normally. However, the computer cannot disconnect the phone

line when it enters system suspend mode in case the internal modem ring resume is set to

on.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

Selecting the Display Mode

When you connect an external display, you can toggle the display mode
between the LCD on your computer and an external display.

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to Settings and click Control Panel.

3

Click Display.

4

Click the Settings tab.

5

Click the Advanced button.

6

Click the NeoMagic® tab.

7 Click Display Options.

8 Select one of the options under Display Mode:

Customizing Your Notebook Computer

Display modes Functions

Monitor Displays only an external display connected to the

- Monitor connector on the port replicator.

LCD Panel Displays only the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on

your computer.

Monitor/LCD Displays simultaneously both the LCD and an external

display connected to the Monitor connector on the port
replicator.

9 Click OK.

^ You can adjust the refresh rate when you select Monitor as the display mode.

Some displays do not support using both the computer's LCD and an external display
simultaneously.

To use the Monitor and Monitor/LCD display modes, an external display must be connected
to the monitor connector on the port replicator.

80

Getting Help

Sony provides several support options for your Sony computer. When
you have questions about your computer and the preinstalled software,
check these sources for answers, in the following sequence:

T

.....

VAIO......................

MicroNotebook
Computer Getting
Started

2

VAIO

MicroNotebook

Computer User
Guide

(this manual)

3 ^Manuals and

online help files
that may
accompany your
preinstalled
software

Knowledge
Database

5 First Aid™ 98

Explains how to set up and upgrade your computer.

The User Guide is an eiectronic document that
includes the contents of Getting Startec. It also
includes instructions for using the computer’s audio
and video applications and thetelephone support
numbers for your preinstalled software title:. You
can access this guide from the Help Center on the
Windows Start menu.

Most of the manuals for preinstalled software are
located on your hard disk drive as online help files.
You can access the online help files from the Help
menu in the specific application. A printed manual is
available for some applications.

Provides Instant access to Information on commonly
encountered problems. Enter a description of your

problem and the Knowledge Database searches for
the corresponding solutions online. You can access
the Sony Knowledge Database at:
http: //www. ita.sel.sony.com/support/pc/

This program is preinstalled on your hard disk. It
intercepts crashes caused by Windows applications,
finds and fixes startup problemsTor most installed
applications, uses a knowledge base to find and fix
additional problems, and automatically backs up

your computer’s critical configuration files.

81

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

6 Oil Change™ This program is preinstalled on your hard disk and is

(Sony SOS a useful companion to SOS. Using the Internet, it

Edition) provides updated device drivers, software fixes and

updates provided by Sony for the software titles
included with your Sony computer. SOS Oil Change
scans your computer to identify software
applications and their versions. It then logs on to the
Internet, compares your software configuration
against the Sony database, and notifies you of the
software fixes and updates available for your
computer. For each fix and update, it provides an
explanation. After selecting the software fixes and
updates you require, SOS Oil Change downloads
and installs the selected items. If, for any reason, the
new software/device driver is not installed
successfully, your current configuration will be
retained.

7 Sony

Fax-on-Demand

This service provides you with answers to commonly
asked questions. You can use this automated service
to request a list of available topics and then select the
topics that you want to receive. To contact the Sony
fax-on-demand service, call 1-888-4SONYPC

(1-888-476-6972). (Requires a fax machine or your

fax software.)

8^ Sony SOS

software

This preinstalled program connects you to a
Customer Support Representative. SOS is available
24 hours a day, seven days a week for 90 days at no
charge after the original date of purchase. Connect
your modem before you call, so the representative
can access your system if necessary. “Calling SOS”
on page 83 describes how to use the SOS software.
Before calling SOS, try running First Aid and Oil
Change. You may find that this resolves your
problem. First Aid, Oil Change, and SOS are all
available from the Help Center on the Start menu.

9 Calling SOS

You can call and speak with a Sony Customer
Support Representative without using your
computer by calling 1-888-4SONYPC
(1-888-476-6972). Software support is available 24
hours a day, seven days a week for 90 days at no
charge after the original date of purchase.

Getting Help U jJ

Calling SOS

The SOS application enables you to exchange information with a Sony
Customer Support Representative (CSR). Here’s how it works:

□ Type your name and the problem description in the SOS window.
□ Dial the SOS hotline with a single click of the mouse.
□ Specify the access level for the CSR.
□ The CSR resolves the problem.
Before using SOS, make sure the computer is connected to a phone line as

described in “Connecting a Phone Line” on page 40. If you do not have a
phone line connected to your computer, you can place a voice call to SOS
by dialing 1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972). SOS support is available at
no charge for 90 days from the original date of purchase.

To place a call to SOS

1 Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2 Point to Help Center, point to Step 4 Call SOS, and then click Sony

Online Support (SOS). The SOS window appears.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

In the SOS window, type your name, phone number, and a
description of the problem. This information cannot be seen by the
customer support representative until you give the CSR access to

your computer.

Click the Call SOS button. The Confirmation screen appears.
Click the OK button. The Phone screen appears.
Click the Dial button. Your modem dials the call and connects you to

the Sony support center.
Speak into your computer's microphone to answer the voice prompts.

You are asked whether you wish to test your system or talk to a

support representative. You are then prompted to indicate the type of
computer you are using.

Discuss the problem with the CSR and follow the CSR's instructions
to resolve the problem. Only if the CSR needs to access your
computer are you prompted to select a security option, as described
in the next step.

Select an access level in the Remote Command Security dialog box by

clicking one of these options:

Options

Descriptions

Full access Allows the CSR to fully interact with your computer.

The CSR can access all the files on your hard disk drive

• and can copy files to and from your computer to solve
your problem.

Limited access Lets the CSR view your system, but you must approve

every action the CSR takes. If the CSR wants to copy a
file, for example, the Remote Command Permission
dialog box prompts you to approve this action.

No access Prevents the CSR from accessing your system. You

must perform all the operations as described to you by
the CSR.

^ You can change the access level during your call to SOS.

10 To end a call, click the Hang Up button.
11 Click the Close box at the top right corner of the SOS window or

select Exit from the File menu to close the SOS window.

Getting Help

Troubleshooting

This section describes how to solve common problems you may
encounter when using your computer. Many problems have si mple
solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Online Support.

^ When you reconnectdevices, be sure to turn off the computer as dexribed in "Shutting

Down Your Computer" on page 19. Turniig off the computer using other methods may

result in data loss.

My computer won't start

□ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is

turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the

computer indicates that the power is on.
□ Check that the batter y is inserted properly and that it is charged.
□ Make sure there is no diskette in the floppy disk drive.
□ Confirm that the AC adapter and all cables are connected firmly, as

described in “Connecting Peripheral Devices” on page 39.

If you plugged th e computer into a power strip or UPS, make sure the

power strip or UPS is turned on and working.

If you are using an external display, check that it is plugged into a

powej source and turned on. Check that the brightness control is

adjusted correctly. See the manual that came with your display for

details.

Moisture condensation may have occurred. Do not use the computer

for at least one hour and then turn on the co mputer.

When I turn on my computer, the message "Operating system not found"

appears and Windows does not start

□ Check the floppy disk drive to see if a non-bootable diskette is in the

drive.

If a non-bootable diskette is in the drive, turn off the computer,

remove the diskette, and then turn on the computer again. Confirm

that Windows starts properly. If Windows still does not start, follow

the procedure below to initialize the BIOS.

If the floppy disk drive is empty or contains a bootable diskette, use

the following procedure to initialize the BIOS:

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

1 Remove the floppy disk drive, port replicator, PC card, and any

other peripheral devices, from the computer.

2 Turn the computer off and then turn it on again.

3 Turn on the computer and press the F2 key when the Sony logo

appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears.

4 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.

5 Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press

the Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?”

appears. Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key.

6 Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key.

7 Press the arrow keys to select Exit (Save Changes) and then press

the Enter key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit

now?” appears.

8 Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key. The

computer restarts.

If your computer still displays the message “Operating system not
found” and Windows does not start, contact Sony Online Support (SOS).

My LCD does not display anything

□ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is

turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the

computer is on.
□ Check that the battery pack is inserted properly and that it is charged.
□ The computer may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode. Press any key

to activate the display.
□ The video output may be directed to an external display attached to

the port replicator. Press Fn+F7 until video output appears on the

LCD.

The screen image on my external display is not centered or sized properly

Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. See the
manual supplied with your display for more information.

Getting Help

My computer "locks up"

□ Try restarting the computer. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start

button, click Shut Down, and then click Restart the computer.

□ If you cannot restart as described in the preceding step, you can

restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete.

□ If the previous step does not work, slide the power switch toward the

front and hold it for four seconds. This turns off the power.

□ If your computer locks up while playing a CD-ROM, stop the

CD-ROM, and restart the computer by pressing Ctrl-t-Alt+Delete.

^ Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete or turning off the computer with the power switch may result in

data loss in files that are currently open.

My software program "locks up" or crashes

Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical

support. See “About the Software on Your Notebook Computer” on

page 3 for a complete list of phone numbers.

/ cannot print

Use Sony Notebook Setup to change the printer setting.

Movements of the displayed images are awkward (not smooth)

In P'owerRanel, select Change CPU Speed. Remove the check from Auto,
and set Speed Control to 100%,

/ cannot play a CD-ROM disc

□ Make sure the label of the CD-ROM is facing up.
□ If the CD-ROM disc requires software, make sure the software is

installed according to the program’s instructions.

□ Moisture condensation may have occurred. Disconnect the CD-ROM

drive and disconnect the power to the drive for at least one hour.

□ Make sure the CD-ROM drive is properly connected. See “To connect

the CD-ROM drive” on page 49.
□ Clean the CD-ROM disc.
□ Check the speaker volume.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

When I click an application icon a message appears, such as " You must insert
the application CD into your CD-ROM drive", and the software does not start

□ Some titles require specific files that are located on the application’s

CD-ROM disc. Insert the disc and try starting the program again.

□ Make sure you place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up.

My floppy disk drive cannot write to a diskette

□ The diskette is write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or

use a diskette that is not write-protected.

□ Check that the diskette is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.

My speaker has no sound

□ The built-in speaker is turned off Press Fn+F3 to turn on the speaker.
□ The speaker volume is turned to the minimum. Press Fn-i-F4, and

then press t or -♦ to increase the volume.

□ If your computer is powered by the battery, check that the battery is

connected properly and that it is charged.

□ If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check

that the vqlume is turned up.
□ Check the volume controls in Windows 98.
□ If you connect external speakers, check that the speakers are properly

connected and the volume is turned up. If the speakers have a mute

button, make sure it is off. If the speakers are powered by batteries,

check that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are

charged.
□ If you have connected a headphone or an audio cable to the

Headphone connector, disconnect the cable.

When I press Fn+F3,1 see the message "Sound Disabled"

Click the System icon in the Control Panel. Change the settings under
Device Manager so that sound is enabled.

My modem doesn't work

□ Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See

“Connecting a Phone Line” on page 40 for details.
□ Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by

plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone.

Getting Help

□ Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct.
□ Check that the software you are using is compatible with the

notebook computer modem. (All preinstalled programs are
compatible.) Call the software publisher or Sony Online Support.

My modem connection is slow

The computer’s modem is a 33.6 kbps modem/14.4 kbps FAX modem
with K56flex technology. Many factors influence modem connection
speed, including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone
equipment (such as fax machines or other modems). If you think your
modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems, fax
machines, or your Internet Service Provider, check the following:

□ Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from

any line noise.
If your problem is fax-related, check that there are no problems with

the fax machine you are calling and that it is compatible with fax
modems.

□

If you are having a problem connecting with your Internet Service
Provider, check that the ISP is not experiencing technical problems.

If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem
to that line.

My mouse doesn't work

□ If you are using an external mouse, check that the mouse is plugged

into the mouse connector. See “Connecting an External Mouse and
Keyboard” on page 46 for details.

□ If you have connected an external mouse while your computer is on,

you should restart your computer.

/ cannot use DV devices and messages appear on the screen
□ Check that the DV device is turned on and that the cables are

properly connected.

□ If you are using multiple i.LINK devices, the combination of the

connected devices may cause unstable operation. In this case, turn off
the power to all connected devices and disconnect unused devices.
Check the connection, then turn on the power again.

VAIO MicroNotebook Computer User Guide

My computer does not shut down

It is best to shut down your computer using the Shut Down command on
the Windows 98 Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed
here, may result in loss of unsaved data. If the Shut Down command does
not work properly, follow these steps:

□ Restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete. If this does not

work, slide the power switch forward and hold it for four seconds.

□ Unplug the computer from the AC adapter and remove the battery

pack from your computer.

My PC card is not working

□ Make sure the PC card is compatible with Windows 98.
□ Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not

currently using.