Sony PCG-SR17K, PCG-SR17 User Manual

VAIO Notebook User Guide

PCG-SR17/PCG-SR17K

Notice to Users

2000 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights

©

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

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

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

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

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

As an ENERGY STA R
Partner, Sony Corporation
has determined that this
product meets the

NERGY STAR

E

guidelines for energy
efficiency.

The International
Equipment Program is an international program
that promotes energy saving through the use of
computers and other office equipment. The
program backs the development and
dissemination of products with functions that
effectively reduce energy consumption. It is an
open system in which business proprietors can
participate voluntarily. The targeted products
are office equipment such as computers,
displays, printers, facsimiles and copiers. Their
standards and logos are uniform among
participating nations.
registered mark.

Sony, i.LINK, Jog Dial, Mavica, Memory Stick,
the Memory Stick logo, MG Memory Stick, DV
Gate, Media Bar, Handycam, MovieShaker,
PictureGear, VAIO and the VAIO logo are
trademarks of Sony Corporation. Microsoft®
Windows Me, Windows, Windows Media,
Windows NT, and the Windows logo are
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel,
SpeedStep, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel
Corporation. PS/2 is a registered trademark of
IBM.

All other trademarks are trademarks of their
respective owners.

E

NERGY STAR Office

E

NERGY STAR is a U .S .

2

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Owner’s Record

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

Model Number: PCG-321A, PCG-3212

Serial Number:________________________

Safety Information

WARNING

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose
your notebook to rain or moisture.To avoid
electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel only.

Never install modem or telephone

❑

wiring during a lightning storm.
Never install telephone jacks in

❑

wet locations unless the jack is
specifically designed for wet
locations.

Never touch uninsulated

❑

telephone wire or terminals
unless the telephone line has been
disconnected at the network
interface.

Use caution when installing or

❑

modifying telephone lines.
Avoid using the modem during an

❑

electrical storm.
Do not use the modem or a

❑

telephone to report a gas leak in
the vicinity of the leak.

A socket outlet should be as close

❑

as possible to the unit and easily
accessible.

The use of optical instruments
with this product will increase
eye hazard. As the laser beam
used in this product is harmful
to the eyes, do not attempt to
disassemble the cabinet. Refer
servicing to qualified personnel
only.

DANGER: Visible and invisible
laser radiation when open.
Avoid direct exposure to beam.

Caution: To reduce the risk of
fire, use only No. 26 AWG or
larger telecommunication line
cord

Avertissement

Pour prévenir tout risque d’incendie ou
d’électrocution, garder cet appareil à l’abri de la
pluie et de l’humidité. Pour prévenir tout risque
d’électrocution, ne pas ouvrir le châssis de cet
appareil et ne confier son entretien qu’à une
personne qualifiée.

Ne jamais effectuer l’installation

❑

de fil modem ou téléphone durant
un orage électrique.

Ne jamais effectuer l’installation

❑

d’une prise téléphonique dans un
endroit mouillé à moins que la
prise soit conçue à cet effet.

Ne jamais toucher un fil

❑

téléphonique à découvert ou un
terminal à moins que la ligne
téléphonique n’ait été débranché
de l’interface réseau.

3

❑

Soyez très prudent lorsque vous
installez ou modifiez les lignes
téléphoniques.

❑

Évitez d’utiliser le modem durant
un orage électrique.

❑

N’utilisez pas le modem ni le
téléphone pour prévenir d’une
fuite de gas si vous êtes près de la
fuite.

❑

L’appareil doit être le plus près
possible d’une prise murale pour
en faciliter l’accès.

Comme le faisceau laser utilisé
par cet appareil est dangereux
pour les yeux, ne tentez pas de
démonter le boîtier. Confiez
lentretien de cet appareil
exclusivement au personnel
qualifié. Adressez-vous a un
agent de service qualifié.

DANGER : Radiation laser
visible et invisible si ouvert.
Evitez lexposition directe au
faisceau.

Attention : Afin de réduire les
risques d'incendie, n'utilisez
qu'un cordon de communication
N0. 26 AWG ou plus gros.

Regulatory Information

If you have any questions about this product,
you can reach the Sony Customer Information
Service Center at 1-888-4SONYPC; or write to
the Sony Customer Information Service Center
at 12451 Gateway Blvd., Ft. Meyers, FL 33913,
or find Sony Customer Service on the Web at:
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY

Model No.: PCG-321A,

PCG-3212

Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.

Address: 1 Sony Drive

Park Ridge, NJ 07656

Telephone: [phone]

This phone number is for FCC-related
matters only.

This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to
radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following
measures:

4

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

❑

Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.

❑

Increase the separation between
the equipment and the receiver.

❑

Connect the equipment into an
outlet on a circuit different from
that to which the receiver is
connected.

❑

Consult the dealer or an
experienced radio/TV technician
for help.

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

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

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

FCC Part 68

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

This modem uses the USOC RJ-11 telephone
jack.

The REN is used to determine the quantity of
devices which may be connected to the

telephone line. Excessive RENs on the
telephone line may result in the devices not
ringing in response to an incoming call. In
most, but not all areas, the sum of the RENs
should not exceed five (5.0). To be certain of
the number of devices that may be connected to
the line, as determined by the total RENs,
contact the telephone company to determine the
maximum REN for the calling area.

If the terminal equipment causes harm to the
telephone network, the telephone company will
notify you in advance that temporary
discontinuance of service may be required. But
if advance notice is not practical, the telephone
company will notify the customer as soon as
possible. Also, you will be advised of your right
to file a complaint with the FCC if you believe
it is necessary.

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

If trouble is experienced with this equipment,
you can reach the Sony Customer Information
Service Center at 1-888-4SONYPC; or write to
the Sony Customer Information Service Center
at 12451 Gateway Blvd., Ft. Myers, FL 33913,
or find Sony Customer Service on the web at
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

Repair of this equipment should be made only
by a Sony Service Center or Sony authorized
agent.

This equipment cannot be used on public coin
service provided by the telephone company.
Connection to Party Line Service is subject to
state and possible provincial tariffs. (Contact
the state or provincial utility service
commission, public service commission, or
corporation commission for information.)

5

Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (United States)

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of
1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use a
computer or other electronic device to send any
message via a telephone facsimile machine
unless such message clearly contains, in a
margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted
page or on the first page of the transmission, the
date and time it is sent and an identification of
the business, other entity, or individual sending
the message, and the telephone number of the
sending machine or such business, other entity,
or individual.

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

Telephone Consumer Guidelines (Canada)

Please refer to your telephone directory under
‘Privacy Issues’ and/or ‘Terms of Service.’ For
more detailed information, please contact:

CRTC
Terrasses de la Chaudiére, Tour centrale
1 promenade du Portage, 5 étage Hull PQ K1A
0N2.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with
Canadian ICES-003.

Cet àppareil numérique de la classe B est
conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY

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

In some areas the disposal of lithium

✍

ion batteries in household or
business trash may be prohibited.

For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call
1-888-476-6972 in the United States or
1-800-961-7669 in Canada.

Do not handle damaged or
leaking lithium ion batteries.

Ne pas manipuler les batteries
au lithium-ion qui fuient ou sont
endommagées.

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

Une batterie non conforme
présente un danger d'explosion.
La remplacer seulement par une
batterie identique ou de type
équivalent recommandé par le
fabricant. Évacuer les batteries
usées selon les directives du
fabricant.

6

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

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

La manutention incorrecte du
module de batterie de cet
appareil présente un risque
d'incendie ou de brûlures
chimiques. Ne pas démonter,
incinérer ou exposer à une
température de plus de 100°C.
Évacuer promptement la
batterie usée. Garder hors de
portée des enfants.

INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE

NOTICE: The Industry Canada label identifies
certified equipment. This certification means
that the equipment meets certain
telecommunications network protective,
operational and safety requirements as
prescribed in the appropriate Terminal
Equipment Technical Requirements
document(s). The Department does not
guarantee the equipment will operate to the
user’s satisfaction.

Before installing this equipment, users should
ensure that it is permissible to be connected to
the facilities of the local telecommunications
company. The equipment must also be installed
using an acceptable method of connection.

The customer should be aware that compliance
with the above conditions may not prevent
degradation of service in some situations.

Repairs to certified equipment should be
coordinated by a representative designated by
the supplier. Equipment malfunctions or any
repairs or alterations made by the user to this
equipment may give the telecommunications
company cause to request that the user
disconnect the equipment.

Users should ensure for their own protection
that the electrical ground connections of the
power utility, telephone lines and internal
metallic water pipe system, if present, are
connected together. This precaution may be
particularly important in rural areas.

CAUTION: Users should not attempt to make
such connections themselves, but should
contact the appropriate electrical inspection
authority, or electrician, as appropriate.

NOTICE: The Ringer Equivalence Number
(REN) assigned to each terminal device
provides an indication of the maximum number
of terminals allowed to be connected to a
telephone interface. The termination on an
interface may consist of any combination of
devices subject only to the requirement that the
sum of the Ringer Equivalence Numbers of all
the devices does not exceed 5. The Ringer
Equivalence Number for this equipment is 1.1.

AVIS DE L’INDUSTRIE CANADA

AVI S : L’étiquette d’Industrie Canada identifie
le matériel homologué.

Cette étiquette certifie que le matériel est
conforme aux normes de protection,
d’exploitation et de sécurité des réseaux de
télécommunications, comme le prescrivent les
documents concernant les exigences techniques
relatives au matériel terminal. Le Ministère
n’assure toutefois pas que le matériel
fonctionnera à la satisfaction de l’utilisateur.

Avant d’installer ce matériel, l’utilisateur doit
s’assurer qu’il est permis de le raccorder aux

7

installations de l’entreprise locale de
télécommunication. Le matériel doit également
être installé en suivant une méthode acceptée de
raccordement. L’abonné ne doit pas oublier
qu’il est possible que la conformité aux
conditions énoncées ci-dessus n’empêche pas la
dégradation du service dans certaines
situations.

Les réparations de matériel homologué doivent
être coordonnées par un représentant désigné
par le fournisseur. L’entreprise de
télécommunications peut demander à
l’utilisateur de débrancher un appareil à la suite
de réparations ou de modifications effectuées
par l’utilisateur ou à cause de mauvais
fonctionnement.

Pour sa propre protection, l’utilisateur doit
s’assurer que tous les fils de mise à la terre de la
source d’énergie électrique, des lignes
téléphoniques et des canalisations d’eau
métalliques, s’il y en a, sont raccordés
ensemble. Cette précaution est particulièrement
importante dans les régions rurales.

Avertissement: L’utilisateur ne doit pas tenter
de faire ces raccordements lui-même; il doit
avoir recours à un service d’inspection des
installations électriques, ou à un électricien,
selon le cas.

AVI S: L’indice d’équivalence de la sonnerie
(IES) assigné à chaque dispositif terminal
indique le nombre maximal de terminaux qui
peuvent être raccordés à une interface.

La terminaison d’une interface téléphonique
peut consister en une combination de quelques
dispositifs, à la seule condition que la somme
d’indices d’équivalence de la sonnerie de tous
les dispositifs n’excède pas 5.

L'indice d'équivalence de la sonnerie de ce
matériel est de 1.1.

8

Contents

Welcome.....................................................13

Features .....................................................................13

Unpacking Your Notebook .......................................14

Ergonomic Considerations ........................................16

Setting Up Your VAIO® Notebook ...........21

Locating Controls and Connectors............................21

Connecting a Power Source ......................................25

Starting Your Computer............................................31

Shutting Down Your Computer ................................32

Using Your VAIO® Notebook ...................33

Using the Keyboard...................................................33

Using the Touchpad ..................................................38

Using a Floppy Disk Drive (optional).......................40

Connecting the CD/DVD Drive (optional) ...............43

Using PC Cards .........................................................47

Using Smart Connect ................................................50

i.LINK® Interface.....................................................51

Connecting an i.LINK® device.................................51

VAIO Action Setup...................................................54

The Jog Dial™ Control .............................................54

9

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Using

Using Power Saving Modes......................................63

Memory Stick®

Media .................................57

Connecting Peripheral Devices ...............67

Connecting a Phone Line..........................................68

Connecting the Internal Modem to

the Telephone Line ...................................................69

Connecting to the Local Area Network (LAN) ........ 72

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device ...74

Connecting an External Display ............................... 75

Recording from a Microphone or Audio Equipment 77

Adding Memory........................................................80

About the Software on Your Computer...87

Movie Shaker............................................................91

PictureGear™ ...........................................................94

For Answers to Your Software Questions ................96

Using the System and

Application Recovery CDs .......................99

Troubleshooting......................................103

Getting Help............................................................115

Specifications..........................................117

Index.........................................................119

10

Welcome

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

Features

For a complete description of the specifications of your VAIO Notebook, see

✍

Specifications on page 117.

❑

Exceptional performance —

Pentium® III processor 700MHz featuring Intel® SpeedStep™ technology
and a V.90/K56flex compatible modem.

❑

Portability —

without AC power.

❑

Sony audio and video quality —

which supports full-screen display (10.4-inch Active Matrix LCD screen)
and enables you to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia
applications, games, and entertainment software.

❑

Microsoft® Windows® Operating System —

Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition or the Microsoft® Windows®
2000 Professional operating system.

❑

Communications —

browse the Internet.

The high-capacity lithium-ion battery provides hours of use

Access popular online services, send e-mail, and

Your notebook includes a fast Mobile Intel®

*

High-quality MPEG1 digital video,

Your system includes the

* Actual upload and download speeds may vary due to line conditions, ISP support, and gov-

ernment regulations.

13

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Unpacking Your Notebook

Remove the following hardware items from the box:

Main unit

Power cord

Display Adapter

Rechargeable battery pack

AC adapter

Manuals

❑

The VAIO® Notebook User Guide —

your notebook, supplementary updates and software information. This
manual describes the features and specifications of your notebook, the
applications included with your system, how to contact software vendors,
and solve common problems.

❑

The Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition Getting Started manual
or Microsoft® Windows 2000 Professional Getting Started manual —

Explains how to use the basic features of the Windows operating system.

Contains information on setting up

Software CD

❑

Microsoft® Word 2000 CD —

the Sony computer you purchased.

14

Allows you to reinstall Microsoft Word to

Unpacking Your Notebook

Recovery CDs

❑

System Recovery CD(s) —

Allows you to restore the software titles that
were shipped with your computer if they become corrupted or are erased
accidentally. It can be used only to restore the hard disk of the Sony
computer you purchased.

❑

Application Recovery CD(s) —

Allows you to reinstall individual

applications or device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally erased.

To use these recovery CDs, you need to purchase either the PCG-CD51/A CD-ROM

✍

drive, or the PCGA-DVD51/A DVD drive. (Windows Me does not support
PCGA-CDRW51).

Other

❑

Setting up your VAIO® Notebook (poster)

❑

Packet containing special product offers

15

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Ergonomic Considerations

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

Recommended Position

Computer positioned
directly in front of you

Arms at desk
level

Wrists relaxed
and flat

❑

Position of your computer —

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

❑

Furniture and posture —

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

❑

Viewing angle of the computer’s display —

Use the display’s tilting

feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle

16

Ergonomic Considerations

fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. You can
adjust the brightness setting of the display also.

❑

Lighting —

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

❑

Placement of an external display —

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

Notes on Setup

Setting Up Your Notebook

❑

Do not place your computer in a location subject to:

❑

Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts

❑

Direct sunlight

❑

Excessive dust

❑

Moisture or rain

❑

Mechanical vibration or shock

❑

Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded

❑

Ambient temperature of more than 95º F (35º C) or less than
40º F (5º C)

❑

High humidity

❑

Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The computer’s
electromagnetic field may cause a malfunction.

❑

Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat build-up. Do not
place your computer on porous surfaces such as rugs or blankets, or near
materials such as curtains or draperies that may block its ventilation slots.
Leave a space of at least 8 inches behind the back panel of the computer.

❑

The computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause interference
to radio or TV reception. Should this occur, relocate the computer a suitable
distance away from the set.

❑

Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables; otherwise,
problems may result.

17

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

❑

Do not use cut or damaged connection cables.

❑

Your computer will not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin­operated telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private
branch exchange (PBX).

❑

If the telephone company makes a service call to your home or office and
determines that your computer is 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 the telephone line, the
telephone company has the right to disconnect your service until you correct
the problem.

Handling Your Notebook

❑

Clean the cabinet with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with
a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring
powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as these may damage the
finish of your computer.

❑

Should any solid object or liquid fall into the computer, shut down your
computer and then unplug it. You may want to have the computer checked by
qualified personnel before operating it any further.

❑

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

Cleaning Your Notebook

❑

Make sure to disconnect the AC adapter before cleaning the computer.

❑

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

❑

Clean the computer with a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild detergent
solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or solvent,
such as alcohol or benzine.

Handling the LCD Screen

❑

Do not leave the LCD facing the sun as it can damage the LCD. Be careful
when using the computer near a window.

❑

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

18

Ergonomic Considerations

❑

Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual
image on the screen. This is not a malfunction. When the computer returns to
normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

❑

A residual image may appear on the screen if the same image is displayed
for a lengthy period of time. The residual image disappears in a while. You
can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

❑

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

❑

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

On Moisture Condensation

❑

If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one,
moisture may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least an
hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug your
computer, and contact your Sony Service Center.

19

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

20

Setting Up Your VAIO® Notebook

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

Locating Controls and Connectors

Front

1 Power indicator

2 Battery indicator

3 MG Memory Stick® indicator

4 Hard disk drive indicator

5 Num Lock indicator

21

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

6 Caps Lock indicator

7 Scroll Lock indicator

8 Microphone

9 LCD screen

10 Keyboard

11 Touchpad

12 Power

13 Left/right button

14 Speakers

Back

1 Battery connector

22

Left

Locating Controls and Connectors

1 DC In connector

2 Air vent

3 VGA adapter output (for connecting an external display)

4 USB connector

5 Memory Stick® media slot

6 Memory Stick eject button

23

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Right

1 Headphone connector

2

i

Microphone/Line IN connector

m

3 Jog Dial control

4 PC Card eject button

5 PC Card slot

6i.LINK®

*

(IEEE1394) S400

7 Phone line jack

* i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that the unit contains an IEEE1394 con-

nector. All products with an i.LINK connector may not communicate with each other.

24

Connecting a Power Source

Bottom

1 Battery lock lever

2 Battery release lever

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

1

Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (PCGA-AC16V1) into the DC In
connector on the notebook.

2

Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter.

3

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

Connecting AC Adapter

Notebook

DC In

The icon indicates the

location of the DC In connector
on the left side of your notebook.

AC adapter
(supplied)

Power cord
(supplied)

25

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Using Battery Power

You can use a battery pack as a source of power. The PCGA-BP2S battery pack
that comes with your notebook is not fully charged at the time of purchase.
Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.

To Insert the Battery Pack

You can insert or remove the battery pack without turning off the notebook when
your notebook is connected to the AC adapter. Before inserting or removing a
battery pack, close the cover.

1

Move the lock lever on the bottom of the notebook to the

Lock Lever

Lock lever

2

Align the grooves and tabs on the battery with the tabs and notches on the

UNLOCK

back of the notebook, and then slide the battery toward the notebook until it
clicks into place.

position.

Inserting Battery Pack

3

Slide the lock lever into the
notebook.

26

Grooves

position to secure the battery on the

LOCK

Battery

Connecting a Power Source

To Charge the Battery Pack

1

Connect the AC adapter to the notebook.

2

Insert the battery pack.

The notebook automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light
flashes in a double-blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85%
full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes 2 hours if the system
is off, 5.5 hours if the system is on. To charge the battery completely, continue
charging for approximately 3.5 additional hours.

The battery indicator light on the front of the notebook indicates the
the battery pack.

Battery Indicator Light

Battery pack
(supplied)

Battery indicator

Battery Indicator Light Status Meaning

On

Single blink

Double blink

Off

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

✍

The notebook is using battery power.
The battery is running out of power.
The battery is charging.
The notebook is using AC power.

To Remove the Battery Pack

status of

You can insert or remove the battery pack without turning off the notebook when
your notebook is connected to the AC adapter. Before inserting or removing a
battery pack, close the cover.

27

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

1

Turn off the notebook and close the cover.

2

Slide the lock lever to the

3

Slide the release lever to the

UNLOCK

UNLOCK

position.

position and slide the battery away from

the notebook.

Removing Battery Pack

Lock lever

Battery release lever

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

✍

connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the notebook is in a
power saving mode.

Notes on Power

The AC Adapter

❑

Your computer operates on 100-240V AC 50/60Hz.

❑

Do not share the AC outlet with other power-consuming equipment, such as
a copying machine or shredder.

❑

You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device prevents
damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges such as those that
may occur during an electrical storm.

❑

Do not place heavy objects on the AC adapter or its cord.

❑

To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord itself.

❑

Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you will not be using the
computer for a long time.

❑

When the AC adapter is not used, unplug it from the AC outlet.

❑

Use only the AC adapter supplied. Do not use any other AC adapter.

28

Connecting a Power Source

Hardware Temperature

❑

The AC adapter or the bottom panel of your notebook may become warm.
This is the result of CPU operation and does not indicate a malfunction of
the notebook. The actual temperature varies depending on the peripherals
and software you are using and the length of time that the unit is in use.

❑

The AC adapter may also become warm when the notebook is off and the
battery is charging.

Do not cover the notebook or adapter with clothing, blankets, or any other
material when the notebook is turned on. Covering these components may
result in damage to your unit.

When connecting the supplied AC adapter to an AC outlet that has more than
two outlets, do not plug the AC adapter into an outlet that is obstructed by
another adapter. To prevent fire or electrical shock, the adapter must be firmly
plugged into the outlet. If necessary, use a separate AC outlet.

Using Batteries

❑

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

❑

Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased battery
efficiency at low temperatures.

❑

Charge the batteries at temperatures between 50° F and 80° F (10° C to
30°C). Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.

❑

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

❑

Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat.

❑

Keep the battery pack dry.

❑

Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack.

❑

Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.

❑

If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time, remove the
battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery.

❑

If, after fully charging the battery pack, the battery power is still low, the
battery pack may be reaching the end of its life and should be replaced.

❑

You do not need to discharge the battery before recharging.

29

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

❑

If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of time,
recharge the battery.

❑

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

❑

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

❑

You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the
Power Panel utility. See “Using Power Saving Modes” on page 63

❑

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

❑

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

❑

Your notebook may not enter System Hibernation mode when the battery life
is low, when certain software applications are running, or when certain
peripheral devices are connected. To avoid loss of data when using battery
power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power
management modes, such as System Suspend or System Hibernation.

30

Starting Your Computer

Starting Your Computer

1

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

Opening

LCD lock lever

Power switch

2

Slide the power switch to the right until the green power indicator turns on.

Power Switch

Power indicator

+

Power switch

(Windows Me only) When starting your notebook for the first time, the VAIO
InitManager dialog box will appear. Please select OK to begin initial
setup. If you do not execute the initial setup, you cannot use part of VAIO
original hardware functions such as Jog Dial Control, Power Management
tool, scroll function of touchpad, and keyboard shortcut key function
combined with the Fn key.

3

If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To decrease
the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the down or left arrow key. To increase
the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the up or right arrow key.

31

VAIO® Notebook User Guide

Shutting Down Your Computer

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

1

Click the Start button on the Windows® taskbar.

2

Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut Down Windows dialog box.

3

From the drop-down list, select Shut Down.

4

Click OK.

Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.

✍

5

Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator turns off.

6

Turn off any peripheral devices connected to your computer.

During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend

✍

mode. See Controlling Power Management in the online manual Customizing Your
Notebook. To access the online documents, click the Start button, point to Help

Center, and click VAIO User Manuals.

If you are unable to shut down your computer:

1

Close or end all operations:

❑

close all applications

❑

remove the PC cards

❑

disconnect USB devices

❑

end Infrared Communication

2

Restart the computer. You can restart your computer by pressing the
Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys (at the same time).

If you are still unable to shut down the computer, you can press the power button and

✍

hold it for four seconds. This operation may result in data loss.

32