Sony PCG-FX404, PCG-FX403, PCG-FX401, PCG-FX405 User Manual

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Sony notebook user guide

PCG-FX Series

Sony Notebook User Guide

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Notice

This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable form

without prior written approval.

Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and hereby expressly

disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this manual, the software or such other

information. In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential, or special damages, whether based on tort, contract, or

otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the software, or other information contained herein or the use thereof.

Macrovision: This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by method claims of certain U.S. patents and other

intellectual property rights owned by Macrovision Corporation and other rights owners. Use of this copyright protection technology must be

authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision

Corporation. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The

software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.

Sony, DVgate, i.LINK

and the i.LINK logo, PictureGear, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony

Corporation.

i.LINK™ is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection.

Microsoft, Windows and the Windows logo, Windows Media and Outlook are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S. Microsoft Corporation in

the U.S. and other countries.

Adobe

and Adobe

Acrobat

Reader are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.

QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are trademarks used under license. QuickTime is registered in the U.S. and other countries.

RealPlayer is a trademark or registered trademark of RealNetworks, inc. in the U.S. and other countries.

Symantec Norton AntiVirus is a trademark of Symantec Corporation.

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All other names of systems, products and services are trademarks of their respective owners. In the manual, the ™ or

marks are not specified.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Energy Star

As an ENERGY STAR

Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR

guidelines for energy efficiency.

The International E

NERGY STAR

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 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 standards and logos are uniform among participating nations.

NERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.

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Safety information

Owner's record

The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer

to the model and serial number if you call VAIO-Link.

Serial number: ________________________

Model Number: PCG-971M (PCG-FX405) / PCG-972M (PCG-FX401)

Warnings

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 to rain or moisture.

❑ Avoid using the modem during a severe electrical storm.

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

❑ To change the backup battery, please contact your nearest Sony Service Center.

Audio/video

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

electromagnetic radiation.

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Connectivity

❑ Never install modem or telephone wiring during a severe lightning storm.

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

❑ Be cautious 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.

Optical disc drive

❑ Misuse of the optical instruments supplied with your notebook can cause eye hazard. As the laser beam used in this

product is harmful to eyes, do not attempt any disassembling process. For servicing, refer to qualified personnel

only.

❑ There are visible and invisible radiations when the optical disc drive is open: avoid direct exposure to the laser

beam.

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Regulatory information

This product conforms to the following European Directive:

1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive)

This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 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 not longer than 3 metres

(9.8 feet).

The optical disk drive is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and

maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.

CLASS 1

LASER PRODUCT

TO EN 60825-1

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Disposing of lithium ion batteries

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.

The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not disassemble, heat

above 60°C (140°F) or incinerate.

Dispose of used batteries promptly and properly.

Keep away from children.

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

Link:

http://www.vaio-link.com

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

Use the public collection system.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Welcome

Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO notebook. 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 has to offer.

❑ Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast processor, a fast CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive* or DVD-ROM drive*

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 audio and video CDs.

❑ Interconnectivity – Your computer has Ethernet and i.LINK™ functionalities. i.LINK™ is a bidirectional digital

interface for exchanging data.

❑ 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 - If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, please check the VAIO-

Link web site for a possible solution:

http://www.vaio-link.com

Before contacting VAIO-Link, you may try to solve the problem by reading the User Guide or the manuals and help

files for the peripherals or software.

* Depending on your model. Read the Specifications chapter.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Welcome

Documentation pack

Your Documentation Pack contains paper and online user guides on a Documentation CD-ROM.

Printed documentation

❑ A Getting Started brochure, where you find a brief description of the items in your box, some specifications of

your notebook, and how to set up your notebook;

❑ A Customer Guide, where you find all the basic information you need to start using your notebook as well as

troubleshooting and VAIO-Link information;

❑ Yo ur Sony Guarantee conditions;

❑ A Safety Regulations flyer;

❑ A Modem Regulations Flyer applying to the modem.

Online documentation

1 The Sony Notebook User Guide:

❑ Using Your Sony Notebook shows you how to use the standard components of your system. In this part of

the manual you will also find out what you can do with a Memory Stick™.

❑ 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.

❑ Precautions provides facts and advice about using your notebook.

❑ Specifications provides details on your computer, drivers and accessories.

❑ Glossary refers to terms used in this manual.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Welcome

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

❑ About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your system.

❑ Customizing your notebook explains how to set your system and power management.

❑ Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs explains how to perform a system and application recovery.

3 Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and

troubleshooting.

4 Refer to the Microsoft Quick Start manual for more information on Windows.

5 Go to http://www.club-vaio.sony-europe.com

to find online tutorials about your favorite VAIO software.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Welcome

Your notebook and its accessories

Following hardware items are in the box:

1 main unit 7 weight saver

2 product recovery CD-ROMs 8 video cable

3 documentation pack 9 phone plug (country specific)

4 AC adapter 10 phone cable

5 floppy disk drive 11 power cord

6 rechargeable battery pack

Sony Notebook User Guide

Welcome

Ergonomic considerations

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

attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments:

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

with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse. Let

your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the

computer may strain muscles or tendons.

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

on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching

forward or leaning far backwards.

Sony Notebook User Guide

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

reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the

brightness setting of the display as well.

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

indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help

reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.

❑ 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.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and external devices.

Locating controls and connectors

Right

* on the PCG-FX401

** on the PCG-FX405

1 power button (page 26)

2 DVD-ROM drive*/CD-RW + DVD-ROM drive** (page 34)

3 multi-purpose bay (page 19)

(page 43)

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Left

1 TV Out connector (page 67) 4i.LINK™ connector (page 75)

2 microphone connector (page 71) 5 PC Card slots (page 44)

3 headphone connector (page 70) 6 battery bay (page 19)

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Front

1 LCD screen (page 32) 7 battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 31)

2 speakers (page 70) 8 hard disk drive indicator (page 31)

3 keyboard (page 29) 9 Num Lock indicator (page 31)

4 touchpad (page 33) 10 Caps Lock indicator (page 31)

5 left/right buttons (page 33) 11 Scroll Lock indicator (page 31)

6 power indicator (page 31)

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Back

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

1 phone line jack (page 56) 5 monitor/VGA connector (page 64)

2USB (page 72) 6 Ethernet connector (page 77)

3 serial connector 7 USB port (page 72)

4 printer connector (page 73) 8 DC In connector (page 18)

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Bottom

1release lever (page 40)

2 tilt stands (page 11)

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Connecting a power source

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

Using the AC adapter

To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows:

1 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer.

2 Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter.

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

✍ Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter.

To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.

Make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Using the battery pack

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. 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.

Inserting the battery pack

To insert the battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Open the cover of the battery bay.

2 Insert the battery pack with the label facing down into the battery bay on the left side of the computer.

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

✍ 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.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Charging the battery pack

To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

2 Insert the battery pack.

The computer automatically charges the battery (1) (the battery indicator (2) 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 2.5 hours if your notebook is on. To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an

additional hour.

There are two battery indicator lights on the computer:

1 Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay on the left side of the computer.

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

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

✍ When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink.

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

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

life.

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

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter Hibernate 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 Standby or Hibernate.

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.

battery indicator light status meaning

On The computer is using battery power.

Single blink The battery is running out of power.

Double blink The battery is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

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Removing the battery pack

To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Turn off the computer.

2 Open the cover of the battery bay.

3 Pull out the battery pack.

4 Close the cover of the battery bay.

✍ You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer

is in Standby mode.

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Using the second battery pack

You can purchase a second rechargeable battery pack. With two battery packs, you can extend the time you use your

computer with battery power. When using two battery packs, the battery pack you insert first, charges first. The

battery pack you insert second, charges when the first battery pack is 85 percent full. You can monitor which battery

pack is charging by observing the battery indicator lights.

Inserting the second battery pack

To insert a second battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 If the weight saver is in the multi-purpose bay (1), remove the device.

2 Insert the battery pack (2) into the multi-purpose bay.

The battery 2 indicator light turns on.

3 Attach the weight saver (3) to the computer to stabilize the battery pack.

4 Slide the eject lever on the bottom of the weight saver toward the front of the computer to lock it.

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Using your notebook

✍ If you attach two battery packs, you can remove one of them without shutting down the computer. When removing one battery pack, make sure that the other

battery pack indicator is on. If the indicator of the battery pack your are going to remove is on, right-click the battery icon in the system tray and click the Switch

Discharge Battery option.

Charging the second battery pack

To charge the second battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Keep the battery pack (1-3) in the computer while it is connected to AC power.

The battery indicator (2) flashes while the battery is charging.

2 When the battery indicator stops flashing, the battery is fully charged.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Removing the second battery pack

To remove the second battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Slide the eject lever on the bottom of the weight saver, in the direction of arrow 1.

2 Slide the release lever on the bottom of the computer in the direction of arrow 2.

3 Remove the weight saver.

4 Pull out the battery pack.

5 Reinsert the weight saver.

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Using your notebook

Starting your notebook

To start your computer, proceed as follows:

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

2 Press the power button (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on.

3 If necessary, press <Fn>+<F5> to adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To increase the brightness, use

the up or right arrow keys. To decrease, use the down or left arrow keys.

✍ <Fn> + <F5> is only possible if Windows is running.

If you press the power button for more than four seconds, the computer will turn off.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Shutting down your notebook

It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data.

To shut down your computer, proceed as follows:

1 Click the Start button on the Windows

taskbar.

2 Click Turn Off Computer.

The Turn off computer dialog box appears.

3 Select Tur n O ff .

4 Wait for your computer to turn off automatically.

The power indicator turns off.

5 Turn off any peripheral connected to your computer.

✍ Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.

If you are unable to shut down your computer:

- Close all software in use.

- Remove the PC Cards, if inserted. To do so, right-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the taskbar. Select the hardware you want to unplug and click Stop.

- Disconnect any USB devices.

- Then press the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> keys at the same time to restart the computer.

If this does not work, you can press the power button for more than four seconds. This will shut down the computer. This operation may result in data loss.

If you want to shut down the computer for a short period only, you can save power by using the Standby mode.

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Using your notebook

Registering your notebook

You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive the following benefits by

registering your computer:

❑ VAIO-Link – If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, you can check the VAIO-Link web site for

a possible solution:

http://www.vaio-link.com

❑ Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee sheet for the terms and conditions and refer to your

Customer Service Guide for more information.

To register your Sony notebook, proceed as follows:

1 Click on the VAIO Online Registration icon in the Start menu.

2 Fill in your Registration card fields.

3 Scroll down to the bottom of the form and click Send.

4 Click OK.

✍ You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online registration service.

To access the online Registration web page, you must have a connection to the Internet.

Sony Notebook User Guide

Using your notebook

Using the keyboard

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

tasks.

Keys Descriptions

Escape key (1) The <Esc> (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.

Function keys (2) The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated

tasks. For example, in many applications, <F1> is the Help key. The task associated with each

function key may vary from one application to the other.

Print Screen key (3) The <Print Screen> key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and moves it to the

Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the screenshot into a document and print it.

Correction keys (4) The <Insert>, <Back Space> and <Delete> keys enable you to make corrections.

Navigation keys (5) These keys enable you to move the cursor on the screen.

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