Sony PCG-GRT240G, PCG-GRT260G, PCG-GRT270G User Guide

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the online VAIO® Computer User Guide. This user guide provides detailed information on all aspects of using your new VAIO computer, from keyboard functions to preinstalled software programs. In the left navigation window, click the topics you want to learn more about, and that information will be displayed in this main window.

View the Electronic Flyer, which provides updates and supplemental information about your computer.

Go to the Sony Computing Support Site to view the VAIO® Computer Specifications, which list your computer's hardware specifications and preinstalled software information.

For Sony software information, click Start and Welcome to VAIO Life.

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Caring for Your Computer

This section provides information on how to safely use your Sony computer.

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Applying Ergonomics

Your computer is a portable device and can be used in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should apply the following ergonomic considerations:

Position of your computer — Place the computer directly in front of you as you work. Keep your forearms

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

Furniture and posture — Sit in a chair with good back support and armrests. Adjust the level of the chair so your

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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 — Tilt the display to find the best viewing angle. Also try adjusting the

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brightness setting of the display. Following these suggestions can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue.

Lighting — Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare or reflection on the display. Use indirect

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lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can 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

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

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Storing Your Computer

Do not use or store your computer in a location subject to:

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Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts

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Direct sunlight

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Excessive dust

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Moisture or rain

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Mechanical vibration or shock

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Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded

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Ambient temperature higher than 95ºF (35ºC) or less than 40ºF (5ºC)

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High humidity

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Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. When running, the computer's electromagnetic field may

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cause other electronic equipment in close proximity to malfunction.

Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat buildup. Do not place your computer on porous surfaces

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such as rugs or blankets, or near materials such as curtains or draperies that may block ventilation. Leave a space of at least 8 inches (20 cm) behind the back of the computer.

If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one, moisture may condense inside your computer.

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In this case, allow at least one hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your computer, and contact your Sony Service Center.

The computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may interfere with radio or TV reception. Should this occur,

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move the computer a suitable distance away from the radio or TV.

Do not drop the computer or place heavy objects on top of the computer.

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Page 4

Using Cables and Connections

Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables.

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Do not use cut or damaged connection cables.

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If the telephone company makes a service call to your home or office and determines that your computer is

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responsible for a problem, the telephone company may bill you for the service call. Also, if you do not disconnect your computer when it is adversely affecting a telephone line, the telephone company has the right to disconnect your service until you correct the problem.

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Cleaning Your Computer

Clean the computer with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use

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any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the finish of your computer. You can use canned compressed air specifically for computers to remove dust.

If a solid object falls onto the computer or a liquid leaks into the computer, immediately turn off and unplug the

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computer. It is best to have the computer checked by qualified personnel before you use it again.

Avoid rubbing the LCD screen as this can damage the screen. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the LCD screen or

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canned compressed air.

Always disconnect the power cord before cleaning the computer.

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Handling the LCD Screen

Direct sunlight can damage the LCD. Be careful when using the computer near a window.

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Do not scratch the LCD or exert pressure on it. This can cause a malfunction.

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Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual image on the screen. This is not a

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malfunction. When the computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

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The LCD is manufactured using high-precision technology. You may, however, see tiny black points and/or bright

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points (red, blue, or green) that continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.

Page 7

Powering Your Computer

Your VAIO® computer comes with a battery and an AC adapter. This chapter explains how to install and use these supplied accessories to power your computer. It also describes ways you can efficiently utilize the battery as a power source.

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Using AC Power

The supplied battery is not charged when you receive your computer. To charge the battery and begin using the computer immediately, insert the battery into the computer and use the supplied AC adapter as a power source. The computer automatically charges the installed battery while it uses AC power.

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Connecting the AC adapter

To connect the AC adapter

Plug the AC adapter cable into the DC IN port.

Connecting the AC Adapter to the Computer

Plug the power cord into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.

Use only the supplied AC adapter with your computer.

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Turning on the computer

To open and turn on the computer

Slide the cover release latch and lift the cover while holding the bottom of the computer firmly.

Opening the Computer

Press the power button until the power indicator turns on.

Turning on the Computer

If you continue to press the power button, the computer turns off.

If the computer screen is too dark or too bright, follow these steps to adjust the brightness:

Your computer is equipped with a Brightness button, located next to the Power button. Pressing it will

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adjust the LCD screen brightness.

To increase brightness, press the Fn and F5 keys, and then press the Up Arrow or the Right Arrow

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key.

To decrease brightness, press the Fn and F5 keys, and then press the Down Arrow or the Left

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Arrow key.

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Using the Battery

Your computer, depending on the model you purchased, may come equipped with one battery bay and one multipurpose bay that supports a second battery. If your computer comes with two bays, you can purchase a second rechargeable battery to extend your computing time. For information on how to extend the life of the battery, see Conserving Battery

Power for more information.

When operating your computer on battery power, your computer's CPU speed is reduced.

The battery that comes with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.

The brightness of your computer screen automatically dims when you switch from AC power to battery power. To

increase the brightness, press the Fn and F5 keys, and then press the Up Arrow or Right Arrow key.

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Using a second battery

To insert a second battery

If another device is in the multipurpose bay, remove that device.

Insert the battery into the multipurpose bay. When the computer uses the second battery, the Battery 2 indicator turns on.

Inserting the Second Battery

Slide the weight saver in the direction of the arrow until it clicks into place. The weight saver stabilizes the battery.

Inserting the Weight Saver

Lock the weight saver RELEASE switch.

Locking the Weight Saver

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To remove the second battery

Make sure the Battery 2 indicator is off and the Battery 1 indicator is on or the computer is connected to AC power. If the Battery 2 indicator is on:

Double-click the CPU icon or Profile icon , depending on the model you purchased. The PowerPanel dialog box appears.

On the Battery tab, click Primary Battery in the Battery Switch box.

Click OK.

Turn the computer over, and unlock the weight saver and the multipurpose bay.

Unlocking the Second Battery

Pull the weight saver and battery gently from the multipurpose bay.

Insert the weight saver into the multipurpose bay to protect the bay.

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Conserving Battery Power

You may use the power saving modes and PowerPanel utility to conserve battery power. Conserving battery power may significantly extend your computing time, depending on how you use your computer.

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Using power saving modes

In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices to save power, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate. Use the Standby and Hibernate power saving modes to override a power profile setting and initiate immediate action.

Standby — Saves the state of the system and peripheral devices in memory (RAM). Power consumption is reduced

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to a minimum. The system remains on, and the computer screen (LCD) is off.

Hibernate — Saves the state of the system and peripheral devices to the hard disk. Power consumption is reduced

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to the lowest possible setting without being completely off. Hibernate mode consumes the lowest level of power. Your computer enters Hibernate mode when the remaining battery charge drops below 5 percent, regardless of the setting you select.

Since some programs and peripheral devices prevent the system from entering Hibernate mode, save your data frequently to avoid data loss.

To activate Standby mode

Press the Fn and Esc keys. The power indicator blinks in this mode.

Press any key to return to normal mode.

To activate Hibernate mode

Press the Fn and F12 keys, or press the power button and release it immediately. Do not move the computer until the power indicator turns off.

Press the power button to return to normal mode.

If your computer does not activate Hibernate mode, see Battery for more information.

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Using PowerPanel utility

The PowerPanel utility enables you to select and customize a predefined power management profile to conserve battery life. The following table describes all the predefined power management profiles in PowerPanel. You can customize the settings for all the following profiles, except the Disable Power Management profile.

Profile

Icon Description

Maximum Performance

Provides the best system performance but conserves minimal 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 Standby mode after a specified time.

Ultimate Battery Life1

Extends the Maximum Battery Life by stopping power to the optical drive and Memory Stick® media slot.

Power Management Off Disables all power management settings, such as Standby and Hibernate modes. You cannot change the settings of this profile.

AC Power Indicates when AC power is in use. Similar to Power Management Off and the Standby mode after a half hour. Power Management automatically loads the AC profile unless you disable this feature.

Games Disables the display and the Hard Disk Standby timer.

Presentation Keeps the display on at all times while conserving power. This option is ideal for slide show presentations. You can establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby mode to optimize power management for your system.

Camera Optimizes performance and power requirements for camera usage.

DVD

Optimizes performance and power requirements for DVD usage.

Word Processing

Optimizes power management with longer time-outs on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby mode to optimize power management for your system.

Spreadsheet

Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet programs.

Communications

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

Automatic Profile Selection Automatically selects a profile suitable for active software programs.

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Do not choose the Automatic P rofile Selection when c onnected to AC power.

To select a profile

Right-click the CPU icon or Profile icon , depending on the model you purchased. See Locating battery

information for Battery icon descriptions.

Select Profiles, and click the profile on the shortcut menu. The profile settings are implemented instantly. See

Using PowerPanel utility for descriptions of available profiles.

When you use the battery to power your computer, your system automatically selects the Maximum Battery Life power management profile by default. If you select a different power management profile while using battery power, that profile is selected automatically the next time you use the battery to power your computer.

See PowerPanel Help for information on customizing the power management profiles.

To customize your profile settings

You can customize your profile settings to sustain enough power for a particular computing function.

Right-click the CPU icon or Profile icon , depending on the model you purchased.

Select Edit/Create Profiles from the shortcut menu.

In the left panel, select the profile you want to change.

In the right panel, right-click the setting under System, LCD (Video), Hard Disk, or Other Devices that you want to change. See the following table for a description of each power management setting.

Make your changes from the drop-down menu.

Click File, and click Save.

Not all power management settings described in the table below are available on your computer, depending on the configuration you purchased.

Power Management Setting Description

CPU Control1 Controls the processor speed. You can select either Performance, Adaptive, or Battery Life. These selections are listed in order from the greatest to least amount of power consumed.

Standby Timer Controls the time it takes the system to activate the Standby mode when it is idle. The longer you allow the computer to sit idle while it is not in a power saving mode the more power the computer consumes.

Hibernate Timer Controls the time it takes the system to activate the Hibernate mode when it is idle. The longer you allow the computer to sit idle while it is not in a power saving mode the more power the computer consumes. Hibernate mode conserves more power than Standby mode.

CPU Fan Control1 (On selected models) Controls the speed of the processor fan. You can set the fan speed to different levels. Level 1 (Quiet) conserves the most power.

Lid Close Action Controls the state of your system when the lid of the computer is closed. You can select either Standby, Hibernate, or LCD Off.

Hibernate on Low Battery Controls the state of your system when the battery power is low. You can turn this setting On or Off. Selecting On conserves the most power when the battery is low.

LCD Brightness Controls the brightness of the computer screen (LCD). You can select a brightness level of one to nine. The

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darker you set the computer screen the more power you conserve.

LCD Standby Timer Controls the time it takes the system to turn off power to the computer screen (LCD) when the system is idle. The system itself still functions on full power.

HDD Standby Timer Controls the time it takes the system to turn off power to the hard disk drive when the system is idle. This setting only turns off power to the hard disk drive.

i.LINK Port Controls power to the i.LINK® port. Disabling power to the i.LINK port conserves power.

Memory Stick Port Power-saving Controls power to the Memory Stick media slot. Disabling power to the Memory Stick media slot conserves power.

Optical Drive Power-Saving Controls power to the optical drive. Disabling power to the optical drive conserves power.

Slows the process or s peed.

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Locating battery information

You can view the remaining battery charge and miscellaneous battery information on the Battery Information toolbar, the PowerProfile window, and the Power Meter window.

The Battery icons that appear on the Battery Information toolbar and PowerPanel window indicate the current status of the installed battery.

Battery icon Charge status

Charging

Fully charged

Discharging

No battery

To view the Battery Information toolbar

Right-click the center of the Windows® taskbar.

Select Toolbars from the shortcut menu, and click Battery Information. The Battery Information toolbar appears on the taskbar.

If the Battery Information toolbar is hidden behind the taskbar icons, right-click the taskbar and click to cancel Lock the Taskbar. Click and drag the edge of the Battery Information toolbar to the left until it is in clear view.

The total charge remaining in the battery is listed in percent and real-time values.

Battery Information Toolbar*

* T he Battery I nformation T oolbar may appear s lightly different on your c omputer, depending on the number of batteries your c omputer s upports .

Percentage indicator — Displays the percentage of the remaining charge.

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Time indicator — Displays estimated time (hours : minutes) remaining before the battery fully discharges, also

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known as the time-to-empty.

To close the Battery Information toolbar

Right-click the Battery Information toolbar.

Select Toolbars from the shortcut menu, and click to cancel Battery Information. The Battery Information toolbar disappears from the taskbar.

To view the PowerPanel window

Double-click the CPU icon or Profile icon , depending on the model you purchased. The PowerPanel window appears.

PowerPanel*

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* T he P owerPanel window may appear slightly different on your computer, depending on the number of batteries your c omputer s upports.

Power Profile — Displays the power management settings for various devices on your system. You can change the

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settings to conserve power.

Battery tab — Displays the total charge remaining in the battery. You can click Advanced for specific information on

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the battery.

Alarms tab — Displays the alarm settings, which notify you when the battery is fully charged or too low. You can

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change your computer's alarm settings on this window.

Click Help in the lower right corner of the window for more information.

To view the Power Meter window

Double-click the Power icon. The Power Meter window appears. You can also rollover the Power icon to view the remaining battery charge.

Power icon Power status

Computer is using AC power.

Computer is using AC power and charging the battery.

Battery is charging.

Battery is fully charged.

Battery is discharging.

No battery is inserted in the computer.

If the Power icon is not displayed on the Taskbar Notification area, see To display the Power icon on the taskbar .

Power Meter

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To display the Power icon on the taskbar

Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, and click Control Panel.

Click Performance and Maintenance, and click Power Options. The Power Options Properties window appears.

Select the Advanced tab, and then select Always show icon on the taskbar in the Options box. The power icon appears on the taskbar. See the power icon descriptions above for more information.

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Inserting a battery

To insert a battery

Lift the lid of the computer.

Push the battery bay cover down to open it. The battery bay cover swings out but does not detach from the computer.

Opening the Battery Bay

Slide the battery into the battery bay. If the computer is on, it automatically detects the battery.

Inserting a Battery

Push the battery bay cover up until it clicks into place.

If a port replicator is attached to your computer, do not insert or remove the battery. Lifting and turning the computer with a port replicator attached could cause a temporary loss of power.

Some programs and peripheral devices prevent the system from automatically entering Hibernate. If you are using battery power, save your data frequently to avoid data loss and manually activate a power saving mode. See Using power saving

modes for more information.

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Removing a battery

If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the battery from the computer to avoid damaging the battery. Remove the battery when the computer is off.

To remove a battery

Make sure the computer is off.

Push the battery bay cover down to open it.

Pull the battery out of the battery bay.

Remov ing a Battery

Push in and lift up the battery bay cover until it clicks into place.

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Charging a battery

You will need to charge the battery if battery power drops below 10 percent or you have not used the battery for a long time. The lithium-ion battery supplied with your computer may be recharged at any time, whether you wait until the battery is completely or partially discharged. Charging a partially discharged battery does not affect battery life. If you charge the battery and find that battery power is still low, the battery may be reaching the end of its life, and you may need to replace it.

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

To charge a battery

You can charge the battery when the computer is on or off. However, the battery will charge faster when the computer is off. Charging the battery takes several hours. See your VAIO® Computer Specifications for the approximate time needed to charge your battery.

Charge the battery at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 30°C). Lower temperatures require more time to charge.

Insert the battery into the battery bay. If you want to charge more than one battery, insert the second battery into the computer. See To insert a second battery for more information.

Connect the AC adapter to the computer. The computer automatically charges the battery as long as the computer is using AC power.

The battery indicator blinks while the battery charges. The battery indicator stops blinking when the battery is fully charged.

When using two batteries, the battery you insert first charges first. The second battery you insert begins charging when the first battery is 85 percent charged.

Battery Indicators

Battery indicator status Description

On The computer is using battery power.

Single blink The battery is running out of power.

Double blink The battery is charging.

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Off The computer is using AC power.

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Notes on batteries

Never leave the battery in temperatures above 140°F (60°C), such as under direct sunlight or in a car parked in the

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sun.

While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery heats up. This is normal and is not cause for concern.

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Keep the battery away from heat sources.

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Keep the battery dry.

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Do not open or disassemble the battery.

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Do not expose the battery to any mechanical shock.

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Battery life is shorter in a cold environment because of decreased battery efficiency at low temperatures.

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Page 27

Using Audio-Video Features

Using Special Buttons

Depending on the model you purchased, your VAIO® computer is equipped with a variety of audio- and video-oriented function buttons: Volume Up and Down, Channel Up and Down, TV On, Brightness, and Magnify screen. Only models equipped with a TV tuner and GigaPocket software will feature TV functionality; not all models feature TV functionality.

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Using Audio-Video Features

Using Special Buttons

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About the special buttons

The following information shows where the special buttons are located, and briefly describes their functionality.

Special Buttons (GigaPocket models only)

Number Type of Button

1 Volume Down. The Volume Up and Down buttons control the audio output on your computer.

2 Volume Up. The Volume Up and Down buttons control the audio output on your computer.

3 Channel Down. The Channel Up and Down buttons control the television channel selections.

4 Channel Up. The Channel Up and Down buttons control the television channel selections.

5 TV On. The TV On button launches GigaPocket software that enables you to watch television or record programs.

6 Magnify. The Magnify button, located next to the computer's brightness button, works as a screen resolution toggle button. By pressing it, you can alternate between different screen resolutions.

7 Brightness. The Brightness button, located between the Magnify and Power buttons, toggles brightness levels for the computer's LCD screen.

8 Power. The Power button turns your computer on or off.

Special Buttons (Models without GigaPocket)

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Number Type of Button

1 Volume Down. The Volume Up and Down buttons control the audio output on your computer.

2 Volume Up. The Volume Up and Down buttons control the audio output on your computer.

3 Magnify. The Magnify button, located next to the computer's brightness button, works as a screen resolution toggle button. By pressing it, you can alternate between different screen resolutions.

4 Brightness. The Brightness button, located between the Magnify and Power buttons, toggles brightness levels for the computer's LCD screen.

5 Power. The Power button turns your computer on or off.

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Using the TV On button

Certain models are equipped with a TV tuner, which enables you to watch and record television with the help of the GigaPocket software.

The TV On button will launch GigaPocket and its TV viewing/recording capabilities.

For more information, see Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder.

How to use the TV button

Locate the TV button below the touch pad and press the button once.

The GigaPocket window appears on the screen.

You must connect your computer to a television cable or antenna in order to view television with GigaPocket.

Using the TV On button

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Using i.LINK Digital Video Recorders

You can connect a digital video (DV) recorder, such as an i.LINK®1 digital video camera recorder, to the i.LINK® S400 (IEEE

1394) port on your computer. The i.LINK digital-video camera recorder is an external device that enables you to record and view digital images.

i.LINK is a trademark of Sony us ed to des ignate that a produc t c ontains an I E E E 1 3 9 4 c onnector. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software application, operating system, and c ompatible i.LI NK devices. A ll products with an i.LI N K c onnec tion may not c ommunic ate with eac h other. Refer to the documentation that came with your compatible i.LIN K devic e for more information on operating c onditions and proper connection. Before connecting compatible i.LI N K P C peripherals to your system, s uch as a C D-RW or hard dis k drive, c onfirm their operating s ystem compatibility and required operating conditions.

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Connecting an i.LINK digital video recorder

You can connect an i.LINK digital video (DV) recorder when the computer is on or off. Connecting the DV recorder when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.

Before you connect an i.LINK digital video recorder

Do not connect more than one digital video camera recorder at a time. The preinstalled programs on your computer

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will not recognize multiple cameras.

Do not connect an external device that requires power from the i.LINK port. The i.LINK port does not supply power

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to the external device.

The i.LINK port supports transfer rates of up to 400 Mbps; however, the actual transfer rate is the lowest transfer

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rate of the external device.

The i.LINK features available may vary depending on the programs you use. See the help guide that accompanied

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your program for more information.

To connect an i.LINK digital video recorder

Turn on the digital video (DV) device and the computer.

Plug the i.LINK® cable into the i.LINK port on the DV device.

Plug the other end of the i.LINK cable into the i.LINK port on your computer. The Found New Hardware window appears on the lower right corner of your screen.

Connecting an i.LINK Digital Video Camera Recorder

See the guide that accompanied your digital video camera recorder for more information on its installation and use.

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Disconnecting the i.LINK digital video recorder

You can disconnect the digital video recorder while the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the i.LINK cable from the i.LINK port on the computer. Disconnecting the cable when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.

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Using a digital video camera recorder

Your computer comes with preinstalled driver software that is compatible with most Sony digital video camera recorders. If you purchased a camera that comes with its own driver software, install these drivers before you use the camera.

To view images

You can view images captured by your digital video camera recorder three different ways. Select one set of instructions from the following list:

If your digital video camera recorder is compatible with the preinstalled programs, the Digital Video Device window

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appears when you connect the camera to the computer. Select the program you want to use in this window, and click OK.

Click Start, and click All Programs. Select a program in which to view your images.

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Click Start, and click Welcome to VAIO Life. Click Movies, and select a program in which to view your images.

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Using Computer Monitors and Projectors

You can connect an external display (such as a computer monitor or a projector) to your computer.

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Connecting a computer monitor

Your computer can display images to the computer screen (LCD), to an external computer monitor, or to both the LCD and external monitor while your computer is on.

To connect a computer monitor

Make sure the computer monitor is plugged into an AC outlet.

Plug the display cable into the Monitor (VGA) port on the computer.

If it is not already on, turn on the computer monitor.

Press the Fn+F7 keys to toggle the display between your computer, the monitor, or both the computer and monitor.

You cannot use the Monitor (VGA) port on your computer when a port replicator is connected to the computer. Use the Monitor (VGA) port on the port replicator instead.

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Connecting a multimedia device

Connecting a Computer Monitor

You can connect a multimedia device, such as a multimedia computer monitor or projector, to your computer. Connecting a multimedia device enables you to display images on your computer screen (LCD), the multimedia device, or both.

For information on connecting a TV to your computer, see Playing DVDs.

To connect a multimedia computer monitor or projector

Plug the device into an AC outlet.

Plug the device cable into the Monitor (VGA) port on your computer. If you are using a multimedia computer monitor, which has built-in speakers and a microphone, plug the audio cable into the Headphone jack on your

computer to hear sound.

To locate the Monitor port and Headphone jack, see "Locating Controls and Ports" in the "Setting Up" chapter of your printed VAIO® Computer Quick Start.

Turn on the device (if it is not already on), and then turn on your computer.

Connecting a Projector

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Press the Fn+F7 key combination to toggle the display between your computer, the monitor, or both. See

Selecting a display for more information.

See the guide that accompanied your projector for more information on its installation and use.

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Selecting a display

You can connect external displays to your computer while it is on. When you connect an external display (projector, computer monitor, or TV) to your computer, you can switch the display between the computer screen (LCD), the external display, or both, using shortcut keys.

Shortcut keys Result

Fn+F7 Toggles the display between the computer screen (LCD), a connected TV, and both the LCD and TV.

Select one display (LCD or TV) when playing a DVD. Connect the TV cable before you turn on the computer; otherwise, Fn+F7 will not work. You cannot use the Fn+F7 function to switch between LCD and TV once a DVD is inserted into the optical drive.

You may not be able to display the computer screen (LCD) and an external display or projector at the same time, depending on the types of computer displays and projectors you are using.

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Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector

You can disconnect the external computer monitor or projector by unplugging the monitor (VGA) cable from your computer's port. Disconnecting the external display when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.

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Using Speakers

Your computer comes with built-in stereo speakers. If you wish to enhance the sound quality of your computer, you can purchase and connect external speakers. If you want to purchase speakers, make sure the speakers are designed for computer use. You can shop Sony online at http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.

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Connecting speakers

You can connect external speakers to your computer to enhance the sound quality of your computer.

Do not place floppy disks on the speakers. The speakers' magnetic field may damage the data stored on the

floppy disks.

To connect speakers to your computer

Turn down the volume of the speakers.

Plug the speaker cable into the Headphone jack on the computer.

Plug the other end of the speaker cable into the speaker.

Connecting Speakers

See the guide that accompanied your speakers for more information on its installation and use.

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Disconnecting speakers

You can disconnect external speakers when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the speaker cable from the Headphone jack on the computer.

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Adjusting the volume

To adjust the volume for playing CDs and DVDs, use the Volume icon on the Windows® taskbar or the Volume Up and Down buttons. Adjusting the volume for playing CDs or DVDs does not adjust the volume for recording sound files.

You can only adjust the recording volume in the Recording Control window. See Using a microphone to record sound for instructions on how to open this window.

To adjust the volume of your speakers

Right-click the Volume icon on the Windows® taskbar, and select Open Volume Control. The Volume Control window appears.

Click and drag the Volume Control slider up to increase volume and down to decrease volume.

Click to cancel any Mute check boxes that are selected.

Sound device Function

Volume Control Adjust the sound level from the speakers or headphones.

Wave Adjust the wavfile sound or the system sound of Windows.

SW Synth Adjusts the internal or external synthesizer volume.

CD Audio Adjust the volume of the CD in the optical drive.

Microphone Adjust the internal or external microphone volume.

Telephony Adjust the modem or telephone volume.

PC Beep Adjust the beep sound when inserting or removing the PC Card and other devices.

Line1 Adjusts the sensitivity of input volume.

O n selected models only.

As a shortcut, you can press the Fn+F4 keys and the Up Arrow or Right Arrow keys to change the volume setting. You can also press the Fn+F3 keys to toggle the mute option on and off.

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Enabling the audio feature

If you do not hear sound when playing a CD or DVD, you may need to enable the audio feature.

To enable the audio feature

Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, and click Control Panel.

Click Performance and Maintenance, and click System. The System Properties window appears.

Select the Hardware tab, and click Device Manager. The Device Manager window, which lists the hardware devices, appears.

Double-click the name of the optical drive, such as DVD/CD-ROM drives1.

Double-click the listed drive name, and click the Properties tab.

Click the Enable digital CD audio for this CD-ROM device check box if it is not already selected.

T he read/write drive letter des ignation may vary, depending on your s ystem's hardware configuration.

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Using Microphones

You can connect an external microphone to your computer to enhance the sound input to your computer. Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use. If you wish to purchase a microphone, shop Sony online at

http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio or contact your local retailer.

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Connecting a microphone

Plug the microphone cable into the Microphone jack1 on the computer.

Connecting a Microphone

A protruding dot located next to the Microphone jac k dis tinguis hes this jac k from the H eadphone jack.

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Disconnecting a microphone

You can disconnect an external microphone when the computer is on or off. Simply unplug the microphone cable from the Microphone jack on the computer.

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Using a microphone to record sound

You can record messages, memos, etc. by connecting a microphone to the Microphone jack1 on your computer.

To record from a microphone

Double-click the Volume icon on the Windows® taskbar. The Volume Control window appears.

From the Options menu, click Properties. The Properties dialog box appears.

Click to select the Recording option in the Adjust volume for box, and click OK. The Recording Control window appears.

Click the Select check box at the bottom of the Microphone column, if it is not already selected. Close the Recording Control window.

Click Start, and select All Programs, Accessories, Entertainment, and then Sound Recorder. The Sound Sound Recorder window appears.

For help using Sound Recorder, click Help in the Sound Recorder window.

To adjust the volume for recording sound

You can only adjust the volume for recording in the Recording Control window.

Right-click the Volume icon on the taskbar, and select Adjust Audio Properties.

On the Audio tab, click Volume in the Sound recording box. The Recording Control window appears.

Click and drag the Microphone slider up to increase volume and down to decrease volume.

A protruding dot located next to the Microphone jac k dis tinguis hes this jac k from the H eadphone jack.

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Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a suite of interactive Sony audio and video components that are designed to create, capture, and play back video files derived from television and your personal videos.1

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder hardware and software applications are not available on all VAIO® computers.

U nauthorized duplication of audio or video files is a violation of applicable laws.

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Introducing Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a unique set of tools that enhance your VAIO® computer's capabilities. Giga Pocket gives you a wide range of video viewing, recording, and playback capabilities, such as:

Watching and recording television programs from your computer.



Viewing and recording TV programming simultaneously.



Setting and managing daily/weekly timer recording schedules.



Managing Video Capsules (recorded video contents) on your computer.



Recording personal video content from a videotape.



Playing your Video Capsules on other computers.



Operating Giga Pocket functions with a remote control device.



Sharing Giga Pocket features and functions with other computers on a network.



Transforming Video Capsules into gMovie format for viewing on your CLIÉ handheld.



For an explanation of Giga Pocket terms, see the Glossary.

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Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder includes:

Giga Pocket — This application enables you to watch TV programs on your computer's display and record them onto



the hard disk drive as Video Capsules for later playback.

Timer Recording Manager — The Timer Recording Manager keeps track of all TV program recordings you have



scheduled. This program also enables you to modify timer recordings.

Timer Recording Wizard — The Wizard interface guides you through setting up a timer recording schedule. You can



program one-time recordings and set up daily or weekly recurring recording schedules.

Giga Pocket Explorer — The Giga Pocket Explorer program functions as your video file management system, and



stores recorded Video Capsules as well as modified Playlists. Giga Pocket Explorer contains export/import functions for file format conversions.

Giga Pocket Server — The Giga Pocket Server enables multiple computers on a network to use certain Giga Pocket



software functions.

CLIÉ Converter — The CLIÉ Converter is a plug-in application that enables the conversion of Video Capsules into



gMovie format. You can change the format your Giga Pocket contents and transfer them onto a Memory Stick media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ Handheld.

Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.

Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder maintains information about the software and Video Capsules on your

computer's drive D, in a folder named D:\Giga Pocket V5. This folder and its contents are not designed for your direct maintenance. Please do not move, modify or delete the Giga Pocket Folder or any of its contents. Any alteration to this folder or its contents may cause your Giga Pocket software and Video Capsules to stop working properly.

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About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

The information in this section provides guidelines to follow when using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder.

Display setup

Always set up your display as follows when you use Giga Pocket:

Color quality: Use factory default settings (32-bit).



Screen resolution: Use the factory preset screen resolution setting. Using other display settings may cause an



improper screen image or an incorrect recording by Giga Pocket software.

Check your display setup in the Microsoft® Windows® operating system before starting up Giga Pocket software. For



more information, refer to the operating system manual.

Do not change the display setup while Giga Pocket is running, or your system may operate improperly.



Hard disk drive

When the available free space on your hard disk approaches 100 MB, you are not able to create a new Video



Capsule. Delete unnecessary Video Capsules or files in order to increase available space on your hard disk drive.

If you directly delete, move, or rename a file in the D:\Giga Pocket V5 folder, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder



features may not work properly.

Network

Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time. Even if a different



user logs on using the Fast User Switching feature, Giga Pocket is not available to any other user account. For more information, see the Giga Pocket Help.

Microsoft Windows XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time. If a different user



logs on using the Fast User Switching feature, the Timer Recording feature is not available to another user account. The Timer Recording Manager icon appears in the task tray of the 1st user to log on.

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Glossary

The most common terms for Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software are defined below.

Cabinet A cabinet acts as a container for Video Capsules in Giga Pocket Explorer. A network cabinet is located on other computers in a network environment.

CATV Refers to Community Access Television, otherwise known as cable television.

Clip A clip is a Video Capsule when it is stored in a Playlist.

Cut A cut is a selected scene taken from a previously recorded Video Capsule.

Expiration date A Video Capsule is stored on the hard disk drive for a preset period of time. When this time has expired,

the Video Capsule is automatically deleted.

Film roll During Video Capsule playback, a snapshot view of the scenes are captured on a film roll. You can scroll freely through the film roll to view different scenes.

GOP Group of Pictures (GOP) are the smallest unit of measure for the images captured on a Video Capsule. A single GOP is approximately 0.5 to 1 second in length.

HotSync® Registered trade name for the method of linking between a handheld device and a larger computer, such

as a desktop or notebook computer.

Management information Management information contains the creation date of Video Capsules and their thumbnails. This information is required for preview.

MPEG file A file that contains compressed moving pictures using the MPEG standard, with.mpg as the file name extension.

Safety Tab Removing the safety tab from a Video Capsule prevents accidental erasing of your video data.

Slip play This feature allows you to view delayed video playback. While your recording is in progress, you are able

to view the recording from the beginning.

Snapshot A snapshot is a miniature view displayed on the film roll in Giga Pocket, Playlist Builder, and the preview monitor in Giga Pocket Explorer.

Stand by mode Stand by mode is a power saving mode that is set up by using the Windows® operating system. Your computer stays in this power saving mode until approximately 5 minutes before the timer recording is due to begin.

STB Refers to set-top box, otherwise known as a cable box.

Thumbnail A thumbnail is a miniature view on recorded Video Capsules or in playback by Giga Pocket. The main

thumbnail is displayed in calendar view or in the Giga Pocket Explorer list area.

Timer recording A timer recording is a preset video recording event.

Video Capsule A Video Capsule is a virtual container that holds the video images recorded with Giga Pocket Recorder. A

Video Capsule is created on your computer hard disk drive and managed with Giga Pocket Explorer.

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Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

For more information about Giga Pocket, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.

Point to Giga Pocket, point to Help, and then select Giga Pocket Help.

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Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

This section illustrates how to set up the cables and connections for your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder system.

The hardware configuration of your computer may vary from the illustrations shown. To view the specific hardware configuration for your computer, see the online specifications sheet.

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To set up TV connections

The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type of cable connection available in your home.

TV signal reception strength will vary widely depending on service availability in your area as well as the type of connection available.

Your VAIO® Computer is supplied with certain audio and video cables. Depending on your in-home cable access, you may require extra cables, adapters or connection equipment not supplied with your computer.

The TV coaxial converter cable

One primary cable to connect your computer to a TV cable or antenna is the TV coaxial converter cable (supplied with computers featuring GigaPocket ). The mini-jack end connects to the computer's VHF/UHF port, whereas the coaxial end connects to the cable service access or antenna

TV coaxial converter cable

Connecting to standard cable access (CATV)

Option 1

Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the coaxial converter cable (supplied).

Connect the mini-jack end of the coaxial converter cable to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.

To connect in CATV mode (Option 1)

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Option 2

Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the single-connection end of a splitter adapter.

Connect the TV coaxial converter cable (supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.

Connect a third TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display.

To connect in CATV mode (Option 2)

Connecting to a standard antenna (air)

You can connect your Giga Pocket system to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or 2 from the previous section, Connecting to standard cable access (CATV). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (optional) to connect your computer and the indoor/outdoor antenna system.

If you are connecting to an indoor/outdoor antenna, you may need to reorient the antenna for best reception. Move the antenna cable away from other power sources or connectors to reduce reception interference.

Option 1

Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your antenna outlet. Connect the other end to a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (optional).

Connect the TV coaxial converter cable (supplied) from the combiner/transformer to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.

Option 2

Connect both ends of the antenna's twin lead cable to the screw-type grips on the combiner/transformer.

Connect the TV coaxial converter cable (supplied) from the combiner/transformer to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.

To connect in standard antenna mode (air)

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Connecting with a cable or satellite set-top box (STB)

You can connect your Giga Pocket system to cable service access that uses a set-top box (cable or satellite).

Option 1

Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the In jack on the back panel of your set-top box (STB).

Connect a second TV coaxial cable (optional) to the Out jack on your STB. Connect the other end to the single-connection end of a splitter adapter (optional).

Connect the TV coaxial converter cable (supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.

Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display.

To connect in STB mode (Option 1)

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Option 2

Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the In jack on the back panel of your set-top box (STB).

Connect a second TV coaxial cable (optional) to the Out jack on your STB unit. Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display.

Connect one end of the stereo A/V cable with triple RCA jacks (optional) to the Video Out and Audio-OUT (L/R) jacks on the back panel of your STB unit, matching the plug and jack colors.

Connect the mini-jack end of the A/V cable into the AV In jack of your computer.

To connect in STB mode (Option 2)

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To set up additional equipment

This section illustrates how to set up additional equipment with the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder System.

Connecting a VCR or camcorder with an audio cable

Your VAIO® computer has both audio and video connection capability. You can locate the connections behind the bottom panel on the front of the system unit. You can connect a VCR or camcorder, using the audio jacks and video ports.

Connect a dual audio cable (optional) to the L and R audio jacks, located on the either the front or rear panels of your computer.

Connect the other ends of the dual audio cable to your VCR or camcorder.

Connecting equipment with an S-video or video cable

Your VCR or camcorder may have either standard video or S-video connection capability.

Option 1

Connect an S-video cable (optional) directly into the S-video jack on your computer.

Connect the other end of the S-video cable into the appropriate port on your compatible VCR or camcorder.

Connect an audio cable with double RCA plugs at each end (optional) into the composite audio L and R jacks.

Option 2

Connect the mini-jack end of an A/V cable with triple RCA plugs at the other end (optional) directly into the AV In jack of your computer.

Connect the other ends of the A/V cable into the appropriate jacks on your compatible VCR or camcorder.

To connect a VCR or camcorder

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Connecting the GigaPocket Remote Control

Your computer also features a remote control and an infrared (IR) remote control receiver. The IR remote control receiver must be plugged into one of the computer's USB ports in order to receive the signals from the remote control.

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About the Remote Control

GigaPocket Personal Video Recorder features are controlled with the remote control. The remote control can start and stop video recording and playback, select channels, and set viewing preferences. This section describes the basic functions of your remote control.

Remote Control

1 MUTE button

Press to turn off the sound. Press again to restore the sound.

2 Channel number buttons (1-9)

Press to select specific channels.

(Press the ENT button to activate channel selection.)

JUMP button

Press to go to the previous channel. Press again to return to the current channel.

ENT button

Press to activate channel selection. See Channel number buttons.

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3 SIZE button

Press to view the current software in full-screen size. Press again to return the view to its original size.

4 AUDIO button

Press to view available sound mode options on the monitor/display.

5 DVD angle button

Press to change the camera angle during DVD playback. See the DVD player software for details. This function is not available for other software.

DVD Subtitle button

Press to turn on/off subtitles or to change the subtitle language during DVD playback. See the DVD player software for details. This function is not available for other software.

DISPLAY button

During DVD playback in full screen mode, press to show the settings window.

When using Giga Pocket software, press to display the TV/Recording deck and playback deck screens. Press again to hide these views.

TV/VIDEO button

Press to change the on-screen image from the TV/Recording deck to external video equipment, such as your VCR.

(Note: You cannot change the input source while recording.)

6 REW and FF buttons

Press to rewind or fast-forward.

PREV and NEXT buttons

Press to move back to the previous screen or forward to the next screen.

7 TITLE button

The function of this button may vary between DVDs. See the DVD player software instructions for details.

8 CANCEL button

When using Giga Pocket software, press to close an error message dialog box. The window returns to its original size when displayed in full-screen mode.

(Note: This function is not available for other software.)

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9 STANDBY button

Press to place the system into Stand by mode.

(Note: You cannot place the computer into Stand by mode when certain Giga Pocket functions are running.)

10 MODE switch

Set the switch from 1 to 3, to change the remote control's control between computers. The target computer's remote control software determines the assigned number.

(Note: The default setting is 1, if you are using a single computer.)

11 MENU button

Press to view a shortcut menu of available software applications. Press again to hide this menu.

(Note: For Giga Pocket software, the Select Video Capsules window displays. Press the button again to hide this window.)

START button

Press to start the selected software.

CLOSE button

Press to close the current software.

FUNCTION button

When Giga Pocket software is selected with the Menu button, press to switch from the TV/recording deck to the playback deck.

When using SonicStage software, press to change from the music drive (hard disk drive) to the CD.

12 CHANNEL button

Press to change channels automatically (no number input required).

(Note: This function is available for Giga Pocket software only.)

13 VOLUME button

Press to raise or lower the volume.

14 REC button

Press to begin recording.

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REC MODE button

Press to select the recording mode.

REC STOP button

Press to stop recording.

(Note: The REC, REC MODE, and REC STOP functions are available for Giga Pocket software only.)

15 PLAY STOP button

Press to stop playback.

PLAY button

Press to begin playback.

PAUSE button

Press to pause playback.

16 MENU button

Press to display the root menu during DVD playback. Press again to minimize the window. See the DVD player software for details.

When using Giga Pocket software, press to display Video Capsule listings.

When using SonicStage software, press to display Playlists.

When using VAIO Media software, press to display the main menu.

17 Direction and ENTER buttons

Press a direction arrow to navigate through menus. Press ENTER to select.

18 RETURN button

Press to return to the previous screen.

(Note: This function is not available for Giga Pocket software.)

For more details about the function buttons on your remote control, see the Giga Pocket Help.

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To set up the remote control

Insert two AA batteries (supplied) into the remote control as shown.

Inserting batteries into the remote control

Under normal use, the AA batteries may last up to six months. If your remote control does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced.

If your remote control is not being used for extended periods of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.

Connecting the infrared receiver

Connect the infrared receiver cable to a USB port located on either the front or back panel of your computer.

Place the infrared receiver unit in a position that enables it to communicate with your remote control.

The infrared receiver must be visible in a line-of-sight with your remote control in order to function properly.

Connecting the infrared receiver (back panel)

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Using the TV Tuner

Certain models are equipped with a TV tuner, which enables you to watch and record television with the help of the GigaPocket software.

The TV On button will launch GigaPocket and its TV viewing/recording capabilities.

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How to use the TV button

Locate the TV button below the touch pad and press the button once.

The GigaPocket window appears on the screen.

You must connect your computer to a television cable or antenna in order to view television with GigaPocket.

Using the TV button

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Setting Up Giga Pocket Software

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software features and functions are detailed in this section, enabling you to begin viewing or recording TV programs.

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To set up TV viewing

When you start Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for the first time, you are automatically prompted to set the video input source for watching TV or cable TV (CATV) programs on your computer.

Starting Giga Pocket for TV Setup (For first time setup)

Verify that the computer time and date settings as displayed in the taskbar are correct.

To adjust these settings:

Right-click with your mouse. A shortcut menu appears.

Select Adjust Date/Time, and a dialog box appears.

Correct the date and time, if necessary.

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, point to All Software, and then click TV Setup.

The TV Setup Wizard appears.

TV Setup Wizard

Depending on your cable service access, select Standard CATV, Standard antenna, or set-top box (STB).

Standard CATV (C1-C125) without STB — For this connection, you must use a coaxial cable directly (without an STB) to your computer. The default setting for this connection option is STD. Depending on your local connection requirements, HRC and IRC are also available.

Standard antenna (2-69) — Select this option if you connect an aerial antenna's coaxial cable directly to your computer for watching TV programs.

STB (Set top box) — Select this option if the broadcast signal is received from a set top box (STB) such as a digital cable box or a satellite cable box. Make sure that the Input channel on your STB (Ch. 3, Ch. 4, etc.) matches the Input channel listed in the Giga Pocket TV Setup dialog box.

If you are not sure of the type of cable connection to use (Standard, HRC, or IRC), contact your cable provider for information.

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Click Next. The wizard displays a dialog box that enables you to customize the channel listings.

Click Auto Scan.

You can view the channel reception in the pop-up TV Setup - Monitor window.

TV Setup Wizard - Customize the channel listing

If your computer is connected to the Internet, you can click Go to Web Site... and download channel listings from the iEPG listing site.

Connect to the Internet.

Click Go to Web Site... and download channel listings by clicking Download all Channel Settings.

Click Next. For the first time setup, you are prompted to set your Giga Pocket Server password.

TV Setup Wizard - Giga Pocket Server password

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Type in a password and click Finish.

Setting up your display (monitor)

When using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, set your display settings as follows:

Colors — Use the default factory settings (32-bit).



Screen area — Use the default factory settings.



If you change the default settings, you may experience poor image quality on your display.

Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time. Even if a different user logs on using the fast switch feature, Giga Pocket is not available to any other user account. For more information, see the Giga Pocket Help.

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Giga Pocket

Giga Pocket enables you to watch a TV program on your computer display while recording it onto your hard disk drive. Using the Giga Pocket Slip Play feature, you can view a program from the beginning even while it is being recorded.

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Starting Giga Pocket

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, then click Giga Pocket. The Giga Pocket window appears.

Giga Pocket window

The current television broadcast is displayed, based on the selected channel.

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Using the TV/Recording deck and Playback deck

Giga Pocket features two decks on the main interface window: the TV/Recording deck and the Playback deck.

TV/Recording deck (detail)

Use the TV/Recording deck to view programs and record Video Capsules. You can use the Playback deck of your Giga Pocket to play back a prerecorded Video Capsule.

Playback deck (detail)

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Recording a Video Capsule

Giga Pocket stores recorded images as Video Capsules. The Video Capsules provide file recording information, which can be viewed through Giga Pocket Explorer. Manage your Video Capsules with Giga Pocket Explorer.

You cannot record a program into a previously recorded Video Capsule. All new content is recorded into a new Video Capsule.

Select your program by switching to the appropriate channel. Use the channel buttons located at the bottom of the Giga Pocket window, or use the right and left direction arrows on your keyboard.

Click Record , located at the bottom of the window, to begin recording your Video Capsule.

When your program has completed or you wish to end the Video Capsule, click Stop .

To pause your recording session, click Pause . Click on it again to resume recording.

Using the Slip Play feature

While a program is being recorded on the TV/Recording deck, you can watch that same program from the beginning, using the Playback deck. You can begin using Slip Play to view your recording, beginning approximately ten seconds after your recording session begins.

From the menu bar, click Functions.

Select Start Slip Play.

Additional information about Giga Pocket

Giga Pocket can be used for external video recording. Depending on conditions, not all video images can be



recorded or displayed.

Video input from game consoles may not be recorded or displayed in Giga Pocket.



When you input an image from a video player device, such as a VCR that is connected to your computer, the



following images may not record or display:

The still images of a paused playback screen.



A screen without images, such as a blue screen.



The menu screens of the attached video player device.



The Giga Pocket software's displayed image or images from a prerecorded Video Capsule may be interrupted or



distorted under the following circumstances:

If you change the channel on an attached video player device.



If you switch input during the analog input from an attached video player device.



If you attempt to play back a damaged video tape.



If you press Pause during the recording process.



When you play a Video Capsule for a few seconds from the end of the film roll using the scroll bar, you may not be



able to see a displayed image.

The computer's response may decrease when you attempt to play a Video Capsule while recording a TV program



using Giga Pocket.

Giga Pocket may interrupt or stop playback to allocate system resources for the timer recording event, if there are other applications running simultaneously. If this occurs, wait until Giga Pocket finishes recording before playing the Video Capsule.

The timer recording may fail due to an "Event buffer of audio overflow" error in the following circumstances:



The input cable (coaxial or video cable) is disconnected after recording starts.



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You record a TV channel that has no broadcast content.



You record video content from an old video tape with poor signal quality.



The on-screen display may shift and split under some circumstances. If this occurs, switch the TV/Recording deck



and the playback deck, or switch the channel. The recording proceeds even if the on-screen display shifts.

Giga Pocket does not operate properly if used concurrently with other video applications, such as DVgate or



MovieShaker software.

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Using the TV Program Web site

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, and then select Zap2it.

You can also go directly to the Web site at http://www.sony.com/vaiotv.

Timer Recording requires an Internet connection. See the section, To set up your Internet Electronic Program

Guide service, for information on setting up for first-time use.

Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site

The appearance of the online channel guide Web site, its contents, and the accuracy of the TV listings are controlled by the TV listing provider and may change without notice. Pay-per-view channels can be accessed when making payments directly to the appropriate TV program provider.

You can schedule up to 100 timer recordings using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder.

From the online channel guide, click on the REC icon to select the program you wish to record. The Timer Recording Wizard begins and the New Timer Recording - Set Channel and Start Date and Time window appears.

Timer recordings create virtual containers for the recorded content that are called Video Capsules.

Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.

Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.

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Timer Recording Wizard

With the Timer Recording Wizard, you can set, adjust, and cancel the timer recording settings.

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Using the Timer Recording Wizard

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, then select Giga Pocket.

Select Timer Recording Wizard. The Timer Recording Wizard dialog box appears.

Timer Recording Wizard

Select the desired option from the Select Timer Recording Settings menu and click Next. Follow the on-screen instructions. Click Help for assistance.

New Timer Recording - Set Channel and Start Date and Tim e

Verify that the information is correct and click Next. The programming station and time information is

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automatically programmed into the appropriate Timer Recording Wizard fields.

You can set the stop time for your timer recording and select the recording mode. The stop time is automatically programmed into the Timer Recording Wizard. Verify the stop time, choose a recording mode, and then click Next .

Recording Mode Description

Standard Play (SP) Standard recording mode (MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and AVI).

High Quality (HQ) Image quality is improved, but recording requires more space on the hard disk drive as compared to using SP or LP recording modes (MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and AVI).

Long Play (LP) Image quality is reduced, but recording requires less space on the hard disk drive as compared to using HQ recording mode (MPEG-1).

New Timer Recording - Set Stop Tim e and Recording Mode

From the New Timer Recording - Set Details dialog box, you can customize the timer recording schedule. Select how often you want to record the program.

New Timer Recording - Set Details

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Select a date for the recorded program to be automatically deleted from your hard disk drive, using the Expiration date of Video Capsule drop-down list.

To maintain adequate space on your hard disk drive, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder enables you to set an expiration date for your Video Capsules to be automatically deleted.

Click Decide to review your setting preferences. The New Timer Recording - Confirm dialog box appears. Click Next.

New Timer Recording - Confirm

The New Timer Recording - Completed dialog box appears. Click Finish.

New Timer Recording - Com pleted dialog box

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Additional information about the Timer Recording Wizard

Timer recording requires approximately 30 seconds (pre-recording) preparation time prior to beginning each



recording session. Please keep this in mind when setting up multiple, back-to-back recording sessions. Giga Pocket software stops the current timer recording, pauses to prepare, and then begins the next timer recording according to the set start time. The length of your first Video Capsule is approximately 30 seconds shorter than the actual time set.

You may experience some timing problems with multiple recording sessions when the second timer recording is preset as a daily or weekly recorded event. The first timer recording may end as early as 60 seconds sooner than the set stop time.

Scheduled daily or weekly timer recording sessions do not occur if your hard disk drive does not have sufficient



space. Giga Pocket software does not allow a new Video Capsule to be created if there is less than 100 MB of free space on the hard disk drive. These scheduled events resume at their scheduled time, as hard disk drive space becomes available.

Approximately three minutes before Giga Pocket begins a timer recording and during a timer recording, you must



avoid:

Starting up or using other software applications.



Setting up, changing, or deleting timer recordings.



All activities that may access the hard disk drive, such as copying files.



Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.

Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.

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Timer Recording Manager

The Timer Recording Manager keeps track of all scheduled TV recordings. Your computer settings, by default, are set to start Timer Recording Manager automatically when the computer is turned on.

Timer recordings are being performed when the Timer Recording Manager icon (Timer Recording Manager) is visible in the Windows taskbar. The timer recording does not start unless the Timer Recording Manager application is available. For the Timer Recorder Manager application to be available, your computer should be in Stand by or Hibernate mode, if the system is not in active use. You can schedule up to 100 programs at a time, for timer recording with the Timer Recording Manager.

Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time. If a different user logs on using the fast switch feature, the Timer Recording feature is not available to another user account. The Timer Recording Manager icon appears in the taskbar of the first user to log on.

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Using the Timer Recording Manager

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, select All Programs, select Giga Pocket, and then click All Software.

Click Timer Recording Manager. The Timer Recording Manager dialog box appears:

Windows Stand by button — Places the Windows operating system into Stand by mode when the preset



timer recording is set to begin, or if a Video Capsule is set to expire. Windows automatically starts and performs the appropriate action.

Interrupt Current Recording button — Stops the current timer recording. Use this option when you wish



to end the current recording session.

Timer Recording List — Displays a list of timer recordings that have been performed, as well as pending



timer recordings. If a daily/weekly timer recording is set, only the current recording session is shown.

The total number of timer recordings displayed does not exceed 100.

Timer Recording Manager dialog box

Double-click on a recorded timer recording to play it back on Giga Pocket.

Click Hide to restore Timer Recording Manager to the taskbar.

If you turn off your computer, the timer recording function is disabled.

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Viewing your selected program recording schedule

You can easily view the programs you have selected to record, using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder. The Timer Recording Manager feature enables you to change or cancel your timer recording at any time.

To view your scheduled timer recordings, follow these steps:

Double-click on the Timer Recording Manager icon located in the Windows® taskbar.

Review your scheduled timer recordings and make any desired changes or cancellations.

Click Hide to return the icon to the taskbar.

You do not have to be connected to the Internet to use the Timer Recording Manager feature.

Additional information about the Timer Recording Manager

When creating a timer recording, it is important to remember the following information:



The timer recording function is disabled if you turn your computer off.



Your computer should be in Stand by or Hibernate mode, if the system is not in active use.



Disable screensavers and any other applications that may access your computer's hard disk drive during the



timer recording.

If you are using a set-top box (STB), make sure it is turned on and set to the channel you want to record.



When you set up a timer recording using Giga Pocket software, always use the Timer Recording Manager. If the



Timer Recording Manager is not set up, the recording does not start, even if you set the timer recording settings with the Timer Recording Wizard.

Your computer's default setting enables Timer Recording Manager to start automatically when the computer is started.

The timer recording starts a few seconds earlier than the specified recording start time.



Under certain circumstances, a daily or weekly timer recording may not be executed the second and subsequent



times.

A timer recording may fail if the computer's clock setting is changed right before the preset recording time. Before



changing the computer's clock setting, verify that there are no timer recordings set to begin.

Close the Time Recording Manager before changing the computer's clock setting. Restart Timer Recording Manager after you have changed the time setting.

If a different user logs on, using the fast switch or switch user features, the Timer Recording feature is not available



to another user account. The Timer Recording Manager icon appears in the taskbar of the first user to log on.

Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.

Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.

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Giga Pocket Explorer

The Giga Pocket Explorer application serves as a file manager for your Video Capsules. Video Capsules and saved Playlists are managed in Cabinets.

Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to play back Video Capsules using Giga Pocket. You can import MPEG files, that were created with compatible Sony applications, and export Video Capsules as AVI or MPEG files.

Using Giga Pocket Explorer

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, point to Giga Pocket Explorer.

The Giga Pocket Explorer main window appears.

Click on the desired Cabinet to see a list of saved Video Capsules and Playlists.

Giga Pocket Explorer main window

Using the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar functions

From the Giga Pocket Explorer toolbar, you can:

Launch Giga Pocket to play a selected Video Capsule or Playlist.



Launch Timer Recording Wizard to set up timer recordings.



Launch Click to DVD software to burn Video Capsules to DVD recordable media. See Click to DVD software



Help for more details.

Launch DVgate Plus software to edit your Video Capsules.



Launch Giga Pocket Help to obtain further assistance.



Change the display views for your video contents, and edit recording information.



Accessing the Click to DVD Help

For additional information about using Click to DVD software features, follow these steps to access the Click to DVD Help.

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs.

Point to Click to DVD and click Click to DVD Help.

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Accessing the DVGate Plus Help

For additional information about using Click to DVD software features, follow these steps to access the DVGate Plus Help.

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs.

Point to DVGate Plus and click DVGate Plus Help.

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Recording Video Capsules onto recordable DVD media

You can record Video Capsules to DVD-R/DVD+R/DVD-RW/DVD+RW media with the Make DVD feature.

The Click to DVD software or another preinstalled DVD-writing program must be installed in order to burn Video Capsules to recordable DVD media.

From the Giga Pocket Explorer main window, select the Video Capsules you want to burn onto a DVD.

On the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar, click Launch DVD Writing Software.

The Click to DVD software launches. Follow the on-screen instructions.

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Exporting Video Capsules

You can export your Video Capsules as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, or AVI file formats for viewing on external media.

In the list area, right-click the Video Capsule you want to export. A shortcut menu appears.

Select Export. The Export dialog box appears.

Export dialog box

Enter an output name for the file you want to export and specify the location for the exported file.

You can select the option, Delete Video Capsule after export. If you do not want to delete the Video Capsule after export, leave the option disabled.

In the section, "Export Video Capsule As:", select to convert to an AVI, MPEG-1, or MPEG-2 format.

Click Run to begin exporting.

Some conversion formats may not be available, depending on the recording mode that was used to create the Video Capsule.

Additional information about using Giga Pocket Explorer

Video Capsules that are recorded using High Quality (HQ) or Standard Play (SP) mode can be converted and



exported as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and AVI files.

MPEG-2 files need a specific system environment for playback:

A VAIO computer that has Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder installed.



A VAIO computer that has DVD playback capabilities.



If you wish to play your Video Capsule in a different system environment, you can convert and export your Video Capsule using MPEG-1 format.

Video Capsules that are recorded using Long Play (LP) mode can be converted and exported as MPEG-1 files.



You can convert an imported MPEG file into a Video Capsule, only if the file was created using DVgate Plus or other



VAIO AV applications.

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Using Network Cabinets

Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to connect to Video Capsules in network cabinets located on other computers in the network. These network cabinets can be accessed through the Giga Pocket Explorer main window when you are connected to the network.

Connecting to Network Cabinets

On the Giga Pocket Explorer menu, select Network and then Connect/Disconnect. The Connect/Disconnect Server dialog box appears.

Connect/Disconnect Server dialog box

Select the server you want to connect to from the Server list on the left side.

Click Connect to add the selected server to the Connected Server list, then click OK. The server is connected.

To disconnect, repeat step 1, then select the server you want to disconnect from the Connected Server list on the right.

Click Disconnect, then click OK. The server is disconnected.

Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.

Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.

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CLIÉ Converter

The CLIÉ Converter is a plug-in application that enables the conversion of Video Capsules into gMovie format. You are able to convert your Giga Pocket contents and HotSync® onto a Memory Stick® media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ Handheld. In order to use the CLIÉ Converter plug-in application, make sure you have install all required software for the CLIÉ handheld.

The Sony CLIÉ Handheld personal entertainment organizers provide a rich and compelling handheld computing experience. Powered by the Palm operating system, the CLIÉ handheld is ready to deliver music and video with amazing clarity. For more information on this exciting device, go to the Sony Style Web site at http://sonystyle.com/vaio/clie.

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Starting CLIÉ Converter

Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.

Point to Giga Pocket, point to Plug-ins, and then click CLIÉ Converter. The Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box appears.

Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter m ain

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Converting Video Capsules

From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box, click the Setting... button. The Settings dialog box appears. Enter your desired settings and click OK.

Start Giga Pocket Explorer as follows:

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select All Programs.

Select Giga Pocket, and then click Giga Pocket Explorer.

Resize the Giga Pocket Explorer window so that the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box is visible.

Click on the Cabinet icon to display the contents in the list area.

Drag the Video Capsule from the Giga Pocket Explorer window and drop it in the list area of the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main dialog box. The Video Capsule automatically converts into a video file.

During conversion, the Convert to CLIÉ dialog box appears, displaying the conversion status. When conversion is complete, the dialog box automatically closes.

The conversion process may take time, depending on the settings selected.

To convert multiple Video Capsules, hold down the Ctrl key while selecting Video Capsules in Giga Pocket Explorer. Drag and drop all selected capsules to the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window.

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Transferring converted video files to a Memory Stick media

Insert a Memory Stick® media into the Memory Stick media slot on your computer.

From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window, click to select the videos you want to transfer to the Memory Stick media.

Click Send To. The Send To dialog box appears.

Select Using Memory Stick as the transfer destination. Click OK.

During transfer, the Forwarding dialog box appears, displaying the transfer status. When transfer is complete, the Clie Converter window appears. Click OK.

Your converted video files can be played back on CLIÉ Handhelds that support the use of a Memory Stick media.

Transferring converted video files using the HotSync® operation

You can transfer your converted video files directly to your CLIÉ Handheld, when you launch a HotSync operation.

From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window, click to select the videos you want to transfer using the HotSync operation.

Click Send To. The Send To dialog box appears.

Select Using HotSync as the transfer destination. Designate a user name, if applicable to your handheld's configuration. Click OK.

The "Send to HotSync" message box appears. Follow the on-screen instructions and click OK.

For more information about the HotSync operation, see the information supplied with your CLIÉ Handheld.

Accessing the CLIÉ Converter Help

For more information about using the CLIÉ Converter plug-in application, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.

Point to Giga Pocket, point to Help, and then click CLIÉ Converter Help.

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Internet Electronic Program Guide Service

Internet Electronic Program Guide is a free, online service that enables quick and easy access to your local TV listings. You can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service with your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for a "one-click" set up of timer recordings and record your favorite TV programs1.

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder must be set up and configured correctly before you can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service.

You must read and accept the User Agreement before accessing the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site (first time only).

The Internet Electronic Program Guide service is available only to users in the United States.

U nauthorized duplication of audio or video files is a violation of applicable laws.

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To set up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service

You must be connected to the Internet, before setting up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service.

Sony recommends using Microsoft® Internet Explorer as your Web browser to access the Internet Electronic Program Guide service.

To set up Internet Electronic Program Guide service, follow these steps:

Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.

Point to Giga Pocket, then click TV Program Web site. Microsoft® Internet Explorer launches, and you are directed to the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site.

The Terms of Use window appears. Click I accept, to continue.

The Welcome and Registration window appears.

Internet Electronic Program Guide Welcome and Registration window

In the Welcome! section, enter your 5-digit zip code and click Continue. The Choose Your Provider window appears, listing all TV providers or TV services available in your area.

Select your TV provider and then click Confirm Channel Lineup. The Confirm Lineup window appears, listing available channels by number and name.

Click Yes if the channel lineup is correct. Otherwise, click No and repeat steps 3 and 4 until you locate the correct channel lineup.

Your TV listings appear in table format, organized by time and channel. Click Download All Channel Settings to set your channels. The Channel Information Converter window appears, if this is the first time you have used this download feature. Click OK.

Close all Giga Pocket applications before downloading your TV listings.

If you are using set-top box (STB) mode, you do not need to click Download All Channel Settings.

Verify the channel settings and click OK.

Your personal channel settings appear whenever you access the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site.

If your TV provider adds new channels or changes existing channels, an Update icon appears next to Download All Channel Settings. Click Update to add the new or updated channels to your personal channel setting.

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Sony PCG-GRT240G, PCG-GRT260G, PCG-GRT270G User Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Welcome

Caring for Your Computer

Applying Ergonomics

Storing Your Computer

Using Cables and Connections

Cleaning Your Computer

Handling the LCD Screen

Powering Your Computer

Using AC Power

Connecting the AC adapter

Turning on the computer

Using the Battery

Using a second battery

Conserving Battery Power

Using power saving modes

Using PowerPanel utility

Locating battery information

Inserting a battery

Removing a battery

Charging a battery

Notes on batteries

Using Audio-Video Features

Using Special Buttons

About the special buttons

Using the TV On button

Using i.LINK Digital Video Recorders

Connecting an i.LINK digital video recorder

Disconnecting the i.LINK digital video recorder

Using a digital video camera recorder

Using Computer Monitors and Projectors

Connecting a computer monitor

Connecting a multimedia device

Selecting a display

Disconnecting a computer monitor or projector

Using Speakers

Connecting speakers

Disconnecting speakers

Adjusting the volume

Enabling the audio feature

Using Microphones

Connecting a microphone

Disconnecting a microphone

Using a microphone to record sound

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

Introducing Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder includes:

About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

Glossary

Accessing the Giga Pocket Help

Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder

To set up TV connections

To set up additional equipment

Connecting the GigaPocket Remote Control

About the Remote Control

To set up the remote control

Using the TV Tuner

How to use the TV button

Setting Up Giga Pocket Software

To set up TV viewing

Giga Pocket

Starting Giga Pocket

Using the TV/Recording deck and Playback deck

Recording a Video Capsule

Using the TV Program Web site

Timer Recording Wizard

Using the Timer Recording Wizard

Timer Recording Manager

Using the Timer Recording Manager

Viewing your selected program recording schedule

Giga Pocket Explorer

Recording Video Capsules onto recordable DVD media

Exporting Video Capsules

Using Network Cabinets

Converting Video Capsules

Transferring converted video files to a Memory Stick media

Internet Electronic Program Guide Service