As an E
has determined that this product
meets the E
for energy efficiency.
The International E
Office Equipment Program is an
international program that
promotes energy saving through the
use of computers and their office
equipment. The program backs the
development and dissemination of
products with functions that
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
effectively reduce energy
consumption. It is an open system in
which business proprietors can
participate voluntarily. The targeted
products are office equipment such
as computers, displays, printers,
facsimiles and copiers. Their
standardsandlogosareuniform
among participating nations.
Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information
contained herein and hereby expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for
any particular purpose with regard to this manual, the software or such other information. In no event shall
Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential, or special damages, whether based on tort,
contract, or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the software, or other information
contained herein or to use thereof.
Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained
herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate
user license agreement.
TM
Sony, DVgate, i.LINK
VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. Windows, the Windows 98 and the Windows 2000 logos
are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Intel, MMX, Celeron and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation.
All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
, Mavica, PictureGear, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the
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3
Safety Information
Owner’s Record
The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook computer. Record
the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call VAIOLink.
Serial number:________________________
Model number:
PCG-92B1 / PCG-92A1 / PCG-9291
PCG-9292
WARNINGS
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
General
Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose your VAIO notebook computer to rain or moisture.
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.
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM
The use of the optical instruments intalled in your notebook computer will increase eye hazard. As the
laser beam used in this product is harmful to eyes, do not attempt to disassemble the cabinet. For
servicing, refer to qualified personnel only.
DVD-ROM ( for models equipped with a DVD-ROM drive)
TherearevisibleandinvisibleradiationswhentheDVD-ROMdriveisopen:avoiddirectexposureto
the laser beam.
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Audio/Video
Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any
equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation.
Connectivity
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
Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.
Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your notebook completely from
mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.
Please make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.
Never touch uninsulated telephone wire or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected
at the network interface.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
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Regulatory Information
This product conforms to the following European Directives:
73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive)
89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC (EMC Directives)
93/68/EEC (CE Marking Directive)
This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 50082-1 for use in following areas: residential,
commercial and light-industrial.
This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using
connection cables shorter than 3 metres (9.8 feet)
Depending on the model:
The DVD-ROM / CD-ROM is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser
Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.
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Disposal of Lithium ion
batteries
Dispose of properly at end-of-life.
In some areas the disposal of
lithium ion batteries in household or
business waste may be prohibited.
Please use the public collection
system.
DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY
! Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly.
! Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions (see
below).
! The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not
disassemble, heat above 100°C (212°F) or incinerate. Dispose of used battery promptly.
! Keep away from children.
! Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For changing this battery, please contact
VAIO-Link.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Welcome
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
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7
Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO notebook computer. Sony has combined
leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing and communications to provide
you with state-of-the-art personal computing.
Here are just some of the features your VAIO notebook computer has to offer (read
the details in the Specifications chapter of this guide).
Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast Intel®processor, a fast CD-
ROM or DVD-ROM drive (depending on the model), and an internal modem.
Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC
power.
Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to
take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and
entertainment software.
Multimedia features - Enjoy the speaker(s) to listen to audio and video CDs.
Windows®- Your system includes the latest operating system from Microsoft.
Communications - Access popular online services, send and receive e-mails,
browse the Internet...
Excellent customer support-Ifyouhaveanyproblemwithyourcomputer,you
can contact VAIO-Link by Internet and e-mail (see your Customer Service Guide
for addresses). Before contacting VAIO-Link, you may try to solve the problem
by reading your User Guide (troubleshooting chapter) or the manuals and Help
files for the peripherals or software.
Welcome
About the User Guides
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About the User Guides
Your Documentation Pack contains paper and on-line user guides on a
Documentation CD-ROM:
Printed Documentation:
A Setting Up poster in colour and a Getting Started brochure; a Customer
Guide, where you will find all the basic information to start using your notebook
computer;
A complete Regulatory and safety information poster;
A Modem Regulations Flyer applying to the internal modem;
Your Sony Guarantee conditions.
8
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
On-line Documentation:
1This User Guide:
Using Your Sony Notebook Computer shows you how to use the standard
components of your system.
Connecting Peripheral Devices explains how you can add functionality by
connecting various peripherals.
Getting Help explains the support options available to you, and offers basic
troubleshooting tips.
Notes on Use provides facts and advice about using your notebook computer.
Specifications provides details on your computer, drivers and accessories.
2Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the
Sony applications.
Welcome
About the User Guides
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
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About the Software is a short description of the features of the software preinstalled on your system.
Customizing your notebook explains how to set your system and power
management with Sony Notebook Setup, VAIO Action Setup, PowerPanel,
BatteryScope, etc.
Learn how to set your display with NeoMagic
Display option (Windows
®
98 only).
®
and enjoy the Dual Screen
3Consult the On-line Help files of the software you're using for detailed
information on features and troubleshooting.
9
Welcome
Unpacking Your Notebook Computer
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10
*Depending on the type of Sony
notebook computer you have
Unpacking Your Notebook Computer
Remove the following hardware items from the box:
purchased, some accessories may
be optional. However, you need to
have these peripherals to enjoy
some of the features described in
Main unit
Rechargeable
battery pack
Floppy disk drive
Weight Saver
this manual.
Product Recovery
CD-ROMs
DVD- / CD-ROM drive
(installed at factory)
Documentation Pack
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
AC adapter
Power cord
Video cable
*
Phone plug (country specific)
Phone cable
Welcome
Ergonomic Considerations
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
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11
Ergonomic Considerations
You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a variety of
environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to take account of the
following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments:
Compute r positioned directly
in front of you
Arms at desk
level
Wrists relaxed and flat
Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you as you
work. Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable
position while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse. Let your upper
arms hang naturally at your sides. Take breaks during sessions with your
computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.
Welcome
Ergonomic Considerations
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
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Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of
the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more
comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or
leaning far backwards.
Viewing angle of the computer’sdisplay– Use the display’s tilting feature to
find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting
the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the
display as well.
Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and
reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the
display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce
glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.
Placement of an external display – When using an external display, set the
display at a comfortable viewing distance. Make sure the display screen is at eye
level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.
Tilt stands – You use the tilt stands to place the computer at an angle that allows
comfortable typing.
12
Using Your Notebook Computer
Locating the Controls and Connectors
Using Your Notebook Computer
This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your
computer’s internal devices, such as the touchpad, the disk drives and the battery...
Locating the Controls and Connectors
Right
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
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13
13
PPK buttons
24
Power button
(page 44)
(page 24)
DVD-ROM / CD-ROM drive
Multi-purpose bay
(page 39)
(page 39)
Using Your Notebook Computer
*
*
Locating the Controls and Connectors
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14
*Not available on PCG-F701
AC adapter mains connector and
Left
power cord: hazardous voltage,
according to EN 60950.
All other connectors for this
notebook are SELV (Safety Extra Low
Voltage), according to EN 60950.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
S400 i.LINKTM connector
15
Infrared port
2
Video Out connector
3
i Headphone connector
4
(page 70)
(page 48)
(page 67)
(page 76)
m Microphone connector
PC card slots
6
Battery bay
7
(page 77)
(page 41)
(page 19)
Using Your Notebook Computer
Locating the Controls and Connectors
Front
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15
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
LCD screen
1
Speakers
2
37
Keyboard
Touchpad
4
(page 32)
(page 31)
(page 27)
(page 34)
!
Left/right buttons
5
! Power indicator
6
Battery 1 and 2
indicators
Hard disk drive indicator
8
(page 34)
(page 24)
(page 30)
(page 30)
Num Lock indicator
9
Caps Lock indicator
10
11
Scroll Lock indicator
(page 30)
(page 30)
(page 30)
Using Your Notebook Computer
Locating the Controls and Connectors
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16
There is a ventilation slot located
Back
near the USB connector. Do not
cover the ventilation slot when your
computer is on.
Cover
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Phone Line jack
15
26
Mouse connector
37
4
Serial connector
Printer
(page 46)
(page 74)
(page 68)
(page 62)
aMonitor connector
USB connectors
DC In
(page 64)
(page 75)
(page 18)
Using Your Notebook Computer
Locating the Controls and Connectors
Bottom
Port replicator connector coverTilt stands
1
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
2
Release lever
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3
17
Using Your Notebook Computer
Connecting a Power Source
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Use your notebook only with the
supplied AC adapter.
To disconnect your notebook
completely from mains voltage,
unplug the AC adapter.
Please make sure that the socket
outlet is easily accessible.
Connecting a Power Source
You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.
Using the AC Adapter
1Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on the
computer.
2Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter.
3Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
Notebook computer
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
1
DC in
SELV according to EN 60950
AC adapter
(supplied)
2
3
Power cord (hazardous voltage
according to EN 60950)
(supplied)
Using Your Notebook Computer
Connecting a Power Source
Using Battery Power
You can use one or two batteries as a source of power. You can insert the second
battery pack into the multi-purpose bay on the right side of the computer. (See “
Using a Second Battery Pack”.). Additional battery packs are available as a separate
option.
The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of
purchase. Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.
To insert the battery pack
1Open the cover of the battery bay.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
2Insert the battery pack into the battery bay on the left side of the computer.
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19
Battery pack
(supplied)
Label facing down
Using Your Notebook Computer
Batt
Connecting a Power Source
3Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.
To charge the battery pack
1Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2Insert the battery pack.
The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in
a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85 percent full, the
battery indicator light turns off. This process takes approximately two hours. To
charge the battery completely, continue charging for an additional hour.
See your Software guide,in “Displaying Battery Information" for information on
checking the battery life.
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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
There are two battery indicator lights on the computer:
ery indicators
Secondary battery pack
(not supplied)
Using Your Notebook Computer
Connecting a Power Source
Battery IndicatorMeaning
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21
1
2
Battery Indicator Light StatusMeaning
On
Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay
on the left side of the computer.
Indicates the status of the battery pack in the multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer.
The computer is using battery
power.
Single blink
Double blink
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Off
The battery is running out of power.
The battery is charging.
The computer is using AC power.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Connecting a Power Source
For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter system
hibernation mode when battery life is low. To avoid loss of data when using battery power, you should save
your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as system suspend or system
hibernation.
When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink.
To determine the time the battery lasts, please refer to "Displaying Battery information" in your Software
Guide.
Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues
to charge while you are using the computer.
If the battery level falls to below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or
shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPanel utility. See your
Software guide, in “Controlling Power Management".
The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged at any time.
Charging a partially discharged battery does not affect battery life.
The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When battery life is nearly
depleted, the battery indicator starts flashing.
When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack inserted in the battery bay, it
uses power from the AC outlet.
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Using Your Notebook Computer
Connecting a Power Source
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23
! You may lose data if you remove
the battery pack while the
computer is on and not connected
to the AC adapter or if you remove
the battery while the computer is in
system suspend mode.
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
To remove the battery pack
1Open the cover of the battery bay.
2Pull out the battery pack.
3Close the cover of the battery bay.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Starting Your Computer
Starting Your Computer
1Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover.
LCD lock lever
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Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
If you press the power button for
more than four seconds, the
computer will turn off.
2Press the power button of the computer until the green power indicator light
turns on.
Power indicator
Power button
3If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display with Fn+F5. To
increase the brightness, use the up or right arrow keys. To decrease use the down
or left arrow keys.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Shutting Down Your Computer
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! To avoid potential loss of data,
follow these steps to shut down
your computer.
Respond to any prompts warning
you to save documents.
If you are unable to shut down your
computer using the steps described
above,
-close all software in use,
-remove the PC cards if inserted,
-disconnect any USB devices,
then restart the computer.
If the previous steps do not work,
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
see the Troubleshooting section of
this User Guide.
During a period of inactivity, you
can conserve battery life by using
System Suspend mode. See
"Controlling Power Management"
in your Software Guide for further
details.
Shutting Down Your Computer
1Click the Start button on the Windows
2Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down
Windows dialog box.
3Select Shut down.
4Click on OK.
5Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator will turn
off.
6Turn off any peripheral connected to your computer.
®
taskbar.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Registering Your Computer
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You must connect your phone line
before using any online services,
including the online registration
service. Please refer to
“Connecting to a phone line”.
To access the on-line Registration
web page, you must have a
connection to the internet.
Registering Your Computer
You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and
receive the following benefits by registering your computer with Sony:
VAIO-Link – You can contact VAIO-Link by Internet or e-mail (see your
Customer Service Guide for addresses).
Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee sheet for the terms and
conditions and please refer to your Customer Service Guide for more
information.
Follow these steps to use the Sony Notebook Computer’s online registration service:
3Click Internet,
4Fill in your Registration card fields,
5Scroll down to the bottom of the form and click Send,
6Click OK.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Using the Keyboard
Using the Keyboard
Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but the keyboard has
additional keys that perform specific notebook computer-related tasks.
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Escape key
Shift key
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Ctrl key
Fn key
®
Windows
key
Alt key
Function keys
Print screen key
Correction keys
Navigation
keys
Application key
Numeric keypad area
KeysDescriptions
Numeric keypad
area
Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric
keypad area to type numbers or 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 illuminate.)
Navigation keysSeveral keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the screen.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Using the Keyboard
KeysDescriptions
Correction keysThe Insert, Back Space, and Delete keys enable you to make
Function keysThe twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to
Escape keyThe Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Print Screen keyThe Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and
Operator keysSeveral keys are always used with at least one other key: Ctrl, Alt, and
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
Windows
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corrections in your documents.
perform designated tasks. For example, in many applications, F1 is
the Help key. The task associated with each function key may vary
from one application to the next.
places it in the Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the screen
shot into a document and print it.
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 is used to produce capital letters or special symbols such
as @ and $.
®
keyThe key with the Windows®logo displays the Windows®Start menu;
it’s the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the task bar. See
"Combinations and functions with the Windows
details.
®
key" for further
28
Fn keyThe Fn key is used in combination with other keys to issue
commands. See “Combinations and functions with the Fn key”.
Using Your Notebook Computer
Using the Keyboard
KeysDescriptions
Applications keyThe Applications key displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive
Combinations and Functions with the Windows® Key
CombinationsFunctions
+ F1Displays Windows Help
+ TabSwitches the selected button on the taskbar.
+ EDisplays Windows Explorer.
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choices; pressing this key is the equivalent of clicking the right mouse
button.
29
Sony Notebook Computer User Guide
+ FDisplays 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.