Sony PCG-SRX77, PCG-SRX77P User Guide

Welcome

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

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Welcome.......................................................1

Using Your VAIO Computer .....................11

Using the Keyboard...................................................12

Functions of the keyboard keys .........................................13

Combinations and functions with the Windows key .........14

Indicators ...........................................................................15

Combinations and functions with the Fn key ....................17

Using VAIO Action Setup ........................................19

VAIO Action Setup functions............................................19

Using the Jog Dial Control ........................................20

Launcher mode ..................................................................20

Guide mode........................................................................21

To use the Jog Dial control with Sony software ................22

To use the Jog Dial control with other software ................22

Internal timer......................................................................23

Using Memory Stick Media ......................................24

Types of Memory Stick media...........................................24

VisualFlow.........................................................................26

Using PC Cards .........................................................29

To insert PC card ...............................................................29

To remove a PC Card.........................................................30

Notes on PC Cards.............................................................31

Using Power Saving Modes ......................................32

Normal mode .....................................................................32

Standby mode ....................................................................32

Hibernate mode..................................................................32

Notes on power saving modes ...........................................33

Connecting a Phone Line .........................................34

How to connect a phone cable ...........................................34

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Connecting to a LAN ................................................ 36

To set up your ethernet connection ................................... 37

To connect to a network.................................................... 38

Connecting to a Wireless LAN................................. 39

Turning On Wireless LAN................................................ 39

The Wireless LAN Access Point ...................................... 39

Communicating with Access Point (infrastructure).......... 40

Communicating without Access Point (ad-hoc) ............... 42

Turning Off Wireless LAN ............................................... 44

Notes on using Wireless LAN .......................................... 44

Connecting Peripheral Devices ...............45

Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive .............................. 46

To connect the floppy disk drive....................................... 46

To insert a floppy disk ...................................................... 47

To remove a floppy disk ................................................... 47

To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is on47

To carry the floppy disk drive........................................... 48

Notes on handling floppy disks......................................... 48

Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive ............................. 49

To connect an optical drive............................................... 49

To insert a disc .................................................................. 50

To remove the drive .......................................................... 51

Notes on CD and DVD discs ............................................ 52

Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive ............... 53

To connect an i.LINK optical disc drive........................... 53

Notes on using i.LINK optical disc drives........................ 55

Connecting a USB Mouse......................................... 56

To connect a USB mouse.................................................. 56

Connecting VAIO Computers .................................. 57

Connecting with i.LINK ................................................... 57

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Connecting an i.LINK Device...................................58

Connecting an External Display................................61

To connect a computer display ..........................................62

To connect a projector .......................................................62

To connect a TV ................................................................65

Connecting a USB Printer .........................................66

To connect a printer ...........................................................66

Connecting an External Microphone.........................67

To connect an external microphone...................................67

To record from a microphone or audio equipment ............67

To switch the microphone jack functionality ....................67

To adjust sound volume in the Recording Control window ..
68

To increase the sound of the microphone ..........................68

To adjust sound device volume .........................................69

Connecting External Speakers ..................................70

To connect external speakers .............................................70

Notes on using external speakers.......................................70

Expanding Your Computer’s Capabilities ................71

Personal Digital Assistant..................................................71

The Wireless LAN Access Point .......................................71

Customizing Your VAIO Computer..........73

Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen ...........74

Sony Notebook Setup tabs.................................................75

Controlling Power Management ...............................76

To view the Power Management status icons....................76

Power Management profiles ..............................................77

Power Management commands .........................................80

Conserving battery power..................................................80

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Displaying Battery Information ................................ 81

Battery icon descriptions................................................... 81

Displaying detailed battery information ........................... 83

Changing the window design of Sony software................ 84

Selecting the Display Mode ...................................... 85

To select the display mode................................................ 85

Adding Memory .........................................87

Precautions and Procedures ...................................... 88

Typical expansion memory configuration ........................ 88

Removing a Memory Module................................... 89

Installing a Memory Module .................................... 92

Confirming Added Memory Capacity ...................... 95

About the Software on Your Computer...97

DVgate application notes ........................................ 104

Digital video captures ..................................................... 104

Adjusting image resolution ............................................. 104

Hard disk drive partition ................................................. 104

Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs .... 106

Using Your Recovery CDs ..................................... 107

To use the Application Recovery CD(s) ......................... 107

To use the Driver Recovery CD(s) ................................. 107

To use the System Recovery CD(s) ................................ 111

Recovering Microsoft Word ........................................... 113

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Troubleshooting ......................................115

Troubleshooting Your Computer ............................116

My computer does not start. ............................................116

My computer starts, but a BIOS error appears. ...............116

My computer starts, but the message “Operating system not

found” appears and Windows does not start....................117

My computer stops responding or does not shut down. ..118

The Power Management setting is not responding..........118

The sound of my computer’s fan is too loud. ..................119

Why does the System Properties dialog box display a slower

CPU speed than advertised? ............................................119

Troubleshooting the LCD Screen............................120

My LCD screen is blank. .................................................120

The image on my connected external display is not centered

or sized properly. .............................................................120

I cannot simultaneously display movies, DVD video, or the
Smart Capture (Finder) window on the LCD display and an

external display. ...............................................................120

I want to change the video resolution of my display. ......120

Troubleshooting the Mouse and Touchpad .............121

My mouse does not work.................................................121

My touchpad does not work properly. .............................121

The pointer does not move while I am using the Touchpad or Mouse.
122

Troubleshooting Drives, PC Cards and Peripheral Devices 123

My floppy disk drive icon doesn’t appear even though it is connected.
123

My optical drive is not playing my disc properly............123

My optical disc drive tray does not open.........................124

I cannot use digital video (DV) devices. The message “DV
equipment seems to be disconnected or turned off” appears.

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124

My PC Card is not working. ........................................... 124

Troubleshooting i.LINK devices ............................ 125

I cannot establish a connection between two VAIO comput-

ers when using an i.LINK cable...................................... 125

Troubleshooting Software....................................... 126

My software program stops responding or crashes......... 126

When I click an application icon, the message “You must in­sert the application CD into your CD-ROM (DVD-ROM)

drive” appears, and the software does not start............... 126

I cannot use the DVgate software. .................................. 126

My computer’s start-up time seems longer after I have in-

stalled AOL. What can I do?........................................... 126

What software do I use for CD-R/CD-RW software functions?
127

Troubleshooting the Modem................................... 128

My modem does not work. ............................................. 128

My modem connection is slow. ...................................... 128

Troubleshooting Wireless LAN functions .............. 129

I cannot use the Wireless LAN functionality.................. 129

The computer cannot connect to a Wireless LAN Access Point.
129

I cannot access the Internet. ............................................ 129

The data transfer speed is slow. ...................................... 129

The communication speed is interrupted or slowed down

when MPEG2 data is transferred. ................................... 130

Data transfers are interrupted.......................................... 130

Troubleshooting Audio ........................................... 131

My speakers have no sound. ........................................... 131

There is noise distortion while listening to music with USB

speakers or USB headphones.......................................... 131

My microphone does not work. ...................................... 132

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Troubleshooting Memory Stick Media ...................133

Image files do not open even though I insert Memory Stick

media into the slot............................................................133

Memory Stick media does not work. I cannot access the re-

movable drive. .................................................................133

Getting Help .............................................135

Support Options.......................................................136

Software Support Information.................................138

Sony Service Center ................................................140

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Using Your VAIO Computer

This section describes the following aspects of your new computer:

Using the Keyboard

❑

Using VAIO Action Setup

❑

Using the Jog Dial Control

❑

Using Memory Stick Media

❑

Using PC Cards

❑

Using Power Saving Modes

❑

Connecting a Phone Line

❑

Connecting to a LAN

❑

Connecting to a Wireless LAN

❑

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VAIO® Co mput e r

Using the Keyboard

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

Keyboard

Shift key

Ctrl key

Escape key

Fn key

Windows

Function keys

Alt key Numeric

key

®

Print Screen
key

keypad area

Correction
keys

Shift
key

Navigation keys

Applications
key

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Using the Keyboard

Functions of the keyboard keys

Key Description

Numeric keypad area Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the

numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform
mathematical calculations such as addition and
subtraction. Numbers appear on the front beveled edge of
the numeric keys. Note that you must press the Num Lock
key to activate the numeric keypad. (When you do so, the
Num Lock light will be on.)

Navigation keys Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on the

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

Correction keys The Insert, Backspace, and Delete keys enable you to

make corrections in your documents.

Function keys The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard

are used to perform designated tasks. For example, in
many applications, F1 is the Help key. The task associated
with each function key may vary from one application to
the next.

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

Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot of the

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

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VAIO® Co mput e r

Key Description

Operator keys (Shift,
Ctrl, Alt keys)

Windows® key The key with the Windows® logo displays the

Fn key The Fn key is used in combination with other keys to

Applications key The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of

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

Windows® Start menu; it’s the equivalent of clicking the
Start button on the taskbar. See “Combinations and
functions with the Windows key” for more information.

issue commands. The Fn keys at the left and right sides
both work the same. See “Combinations and functions
with the Fn key” for more information.

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

Combinations and functions with the Windows key

Combination Function

+ F1 Displays VAIO® Help and Support Center.

+ Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar.

+ E Displays Windows® Explorer.

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Using the Keyboard

Combination Function

+ F Displays the Search window to find a file or folder. This

is the equivalent of selecting Search from the Start
menu.

+ Ctrl + F Displays the Search Results: Computers window where

you can locate other computers. This is the equivalent of
selecting Search and then Computers from the Start
menu.

+ M Minimizes all displayed windows (with Num Lock off).

Shift + + M Returns all minimized windows to their previous size.

+ R Displays the Run window. This is the equivalent of

selecting Run from the Start menu.

Fn + + Insert Displays the System Properties window. This is the

equivalent of selecting Control Panel and then System
from the Start menu.

Indicators

Indicator Function

Power Light is green when the power to the computer is turned on,

flashes amber in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer
is in Hibernate mode or powered off.

Battery

Hard disk Lights when data is read from or written to the hard disk drive. Do

Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the computer.

not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this
indicator light is on.

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VAIO® Co mput e r

Indicator Function

Wireless LAN ****to add text****

Memory
Stick®

****to edit: When indicator is lit, data is read from or written to
the Memory Stick media. (Do not enter Standby mode or turn off
the computer when this indicator light is on.) When indicator is
off, the Memory Stick media is not being accessed.

Num Lock When indicator is lit, the number keys area in the numeric keypad

are active. When indicator is off, the alphanumeric character keys
in the keypad area are active.

Caps Lock When indicator is lit, the letters appear in uppercase as you type.

The Shift key lowers the case of typed letters when Caps Lock is
on. When indicator is off, the letters appear in lower case as you
type (unless you hold down the Shift key).

Scroll Lock When indicator is lit, the screen scrolls differently. (Exactly how it

scrolls depends on the specific application. This function does not
work with all applications.) When indicator is off, information
moves across the display normally.

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Using the Keyboard

Combinations and functions with the Fn key

✍

If you switch user identities during a computing session, the Fn+F7 and Fn+F8 key
functionality (if available on your computer) will be interrupted. To switch to an
external display or monitor, see “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.

Combinations/
Feature Functions

Fn+ (ESC)
Standby

Fn+ (F3)
Speaker switch

Fn+ (F4)
Speaker volume

Fn+ (F5)
Brightness control

Fn+ (F7)
Switch to the
external display

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

Toggles the built-in speaker off and on.

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
To increase volume, press Fn+F4, then or .
To decrease volume, press Fn+F4, then or .

Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.
To increase light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then
or .
To decrease light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then
or .

Toggles between the LCD, external display
(connected to the Monitor port), and both LCD
and external display modes.

Only LCD

LCD and external display

Only external display

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VAIO® Co mput e r

Combinations/
Feature Functions

Fn+ (F12)
Hibernate

Fn+B
Bass Boost

Fn+ F Display control. Minimizes and maximizes the LCD

✍

Some functions are not available until Windows® launches.

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

Toggles the bass-boost function off and on. This
feature is available only while using headphones.

screen. If the default display resolution is reduced,
this function maximizes the display resolution to fit
the screen size. Maximizing the display screen
enables you to view the display at a greater
resolution.

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Using VAIO Action Setup

Using VAIO Action Setup

VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer’s Jog Dial™ control,

MEMORY STICK

Memory Stick® media, and i.LINK® interface. An overview of some of
the functions controlled by VAIO Action Setup is provided below. For more
information on changing the settings using VAIO Action Setup, right-click the
Jog Dial control icon or , in the task tray and click Help Topics.

VAIO Action Setup functions

❑

Jog Dial — Changing the Jog Dial setting

❑

Memory Stick — Changing the Memory Stick media insertion setting

❑

i.LINK — Changing the i.LINK device connection setting

❑

USB — Changing the USB device connection setting

❑

Timer — Setting the timer

TM

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VAIO® Co mput e r

Using the Jog Dial Control

Your computer is equipped with a Jog Dial™ control on the top right corner of
the unit. The Jog Dial control enables you to open an application, folder, or
document from a predefined list by rotating and pressing the Jog Dial control. In
addition, when you press the Jog Dial control, you can turn on your computer
automatically and start the selected application or document.

Using the Jog Dial Control

Jog Dial control

The Jog Dial control window always appears in the display. It is either in the
launcher mode or in the guide mode.

For information on how to change the Jog Dial control’s settings, right-click the
Jog Dial control icon in the task tray and click Help Topics.

Launcher mode

The Jog Dial control window is in launcher mode until a software application is
launched or the Jog Dial control window becomes active. When an arrow is
displayed next to an item in the Jog Dial control window, you can display a
submenu of that item by selecting it and pressing the Jog Dial control button.

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Using the Jog Dial Control

Using Launcher mode

To use the Jog Dial control, click the Jog Dial control window or the Jog Dial
control icon in the task tray. Alternatively, you can press the Jog Dial control
while pressing the Ctrl key on the keyboard to switch to the launcher mode.

1 Turn the Jog Dial control to select the item you want, then press the Jog Dial

control. The window switches to the guide mode, and shows the Jog Dial
control’s function.

Jog Dial Launcher Dialog Box

2 Turn or press the Jog Dial control to use the desired function.

3 To select another item, switch to the launcher mode and repeat from step 1.

Guide mode

The Jog Dial control window is in the guide mode when software is in use and
the software window is active. Depending on the software you are using, you can
select items from the displayed list using the Jog Dial control. Some Sony
software applications have two modes in List View, Simple Menu, and Full
Menu. You can switch the mode by pressing the Shift key while turning the Jog
Dial control.

Using guide mode

The Jog Dial control window displays the Jog Dial control’s function.

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VAIO® Co mput e r

To use the Jog Dial control with Sony software

If Sony software that supports the Jog Dial™ control is active, you can use the
Jog Dial’s functions that are allocated to that software. For more information on
functions allocated to software, see the software application’s online Help.

To use the Jog Dial control with other software

If the software you are using does not support the Jog Dial control, you can still
perform the following functions:

Action Description

Maximize Window* Press the Jog Dial control button to maximize the size

of the active window. Press again to return to normal
window size.

Minimize Window* Press the Jog Dial control button to minimize the size

of the active window. Press again to return to normal
window size.

Finish Window* Press the Jog Dial control button to close the active

application.

Scroll* Press the Jog Dial control button to begin scrolling

within the active window.

Jog Dial Launcher Press the Jog Dial control button to return the Jog Dial

control to Jog Launcher mode.

Menu Bar Press the Jog Dial control button, then use the Jog

Dial control to scroll through the active window’s
toolbar.

*Some software applications do not support these functions.

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Using the Jog Dial Control

Using a dialog box

When a window such as Screen Properties is active, the Dialog box is displayed
in the Jog Dial™ window. You can select an item in the window by rotating the
Jog Dial control. Pressing the Jog Dial control is the equivalent of pressing Enter.

Jog Dial Guide Dialog Box

Internal timer

You can use the internal timer to start an application at a specific time. The timer,
when set, can launch applications even when the computer power is off.

1 Rotate or push the Jog Dial™ control, and select VAIO Action Setup in the

Jog Dial Launcher window.

2 Click Timer from the left menu, then click the clock icon.

3 Select either Recommended Settings, Program Files, All Files, or Drag &

Drop from the left menu, then select the file or application you wish to
launch in the right window.

4 Click Next until the One-Time-Only Setting dialog box appears.

5 Select the Date and Time and click Next twice, then click Finish and close

the VAIO Action Setup window.

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Using Memory Stick Media

This new compact, portable, and versatile recording medium has a data capacity
exceeding that of a floppy disk. The media is specially designed for exchanging
and sharing digital data with compatible products. Because it is removable, the
media can be used for external data storage.

Types of Memory Stick media

Two types of Memory Stick® media are available. The first type, MagicGate™

Memory Stick media (hereafter referred as MG Memory Stick media), is
provided with copyright protection. (The MG Memory Stick media are colored
white.) The second type, simply referred to as Memory Stick media, does
not have the same copyright protection as MagicGate. (The Memory Stick media
are colored purple.)

You can use both media with your computer.

For music, which requires copyright protection, you can only use MG Memory
Stick media with your computer. You can also use compatible MagicGate devices
to record and play back music when they are connected to your computer.

You can store mixed data on the Memory Stick media. For example, you can
copy an image onto MG Memory Stick media that already contains music.

What is MagicGate?

MagicGate technology is copyright protection that consists of authentication and
encryption technology. Authentication technology ensures that protected content
is only transferred between compliant devices and media. Protected content is
recorded and transferred in an encrypted format to prevent unauthorized
duplication or playback.

✍

Ensure that the MG Memory Stick media has the MG mark .

To insert a Memory Stick media

Insert the Memory Stick media into the media slot on the left side of the
computer until it clicks into place. When the Memory Stick media is properly in
place, Sony’s VisualFlow™ software will automatically launch to display the
contents of the Memory Stick.

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Using Memory Stick Media

1 Insert with the arrow facing toward the Memory Stick® media slot and the

label facing up.

Inserting the media in the wrong direction may damage the connector pins.

Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction
and then turn it so the label side is down before inserting into the slot. To
avoid damaging the computer or the Memory Stick Media, do not force the
Memory Stick media into the slot.

2 Carefully insert the Memory Stick media until it clicks into place.

Inserting Memory Stick

To view the contents of Memory Stick media

To see the contents, do the following:

Memory Stick media

Insert in the direction
of the arrow with

the label facing up

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VAIO® Co mput e r

1 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, and select My Computer.

2 Under the heading “Devices with Removable Storage,” click Sony Memory

Stick.

To remove a Memory Stick media

Make sure the access light is off. Push the media in toward the computer. When
the media ejects, pull it out. When removing the Memory Stick media, be careful
as it may eject completely from the slot.

VisualFlow

VisualFlow software is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed
specifically for Memory Stick media.

To use VisualFlow

1 From the Start menu, point to All Programs, and select VisualFlow.

✍

VAIO Action Setup has been configured to launch VisualFlow by default upon insertion
of Memory Stick media. VisualFlow software starts automatically when Memory Stick
media is put into the drive.

2 Click on an icon in the View section on the main toolbar to select a display

layout.

3 Click on an icon in the Sort section on the main toolbar to select a sorting

method.

4 Resting your cursor on the left end of the main toolbar activates the current

Memory Stick properties.

5 Resting your cursor on the right end of the main toolbar activates a

secondary toolbar with more functions.

6 Click an image to show a normal view centered on the screen.

Double-click an image to show an enlarged view.

❑

26

Using Memory Stick Media

7 Movie files start playback when the view is enlarged. Click again on movie

files to restore the view to normal.

✍

While an image is enlarged, the Launch toolbar appears on the bottom of the window.
Any associated application can be activated from here.

Notes on using Memory Stick media

When the media’s write-protect tab is set to LOCK, data cannot be recorded

❑

or erased.

Before using Memory Stick media, you should back up important data.

❑

Wait a minimum of 10 seconds after the media finishes reading or writing

❑

data before removing it. If the media is removed prematurely, an error
message appears, prompting you to continue or exit. Reinsert the media into
the slot and press Enter to continue. This enables the media to finish reading
or writing data.

You can enjoy video clips that you have recorded with compatible Memory

❑

Stick digital camcorders.

The media slot can accommodate one media at a time.

❑

To copy images from a digital video camera via Memory Stick® media, see

❑

“Connecting an i.LINK Device” for more information.

Only MG™ Memory Stick media can be used with copyright protected data

❑

like music.

Do not remove the media or turn off the power while the access light is on.

❑

Do not use the media in locations that are subject to static electricity or

❑

electrical noise.

Do not touch the media connector with your finger or metallic objects.

❑

Do not attach labels other than the supplied label to a media.

❑

Do not bend, drop, or shock the media.

❑

Do not disassemble or modify the media.

❑

Do not allow the media to get wet.

❑

Do not use or store the media in a location that is subject to:

❑

Extremely high temperatures, such as in a car parked in the sun.

❑

Direct sunlight.

❑

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VAIO® Co mput e r

High humidity or places with corrosive substances.

❑

To prolong the life of the media, use the supplied storage case. See the
instructions supplied with your media for more information on its use.

28

Using PC Cards

Using PC Cards

Your computer includes a PC Card slot. PC Cards enable you to connect portable
external devices, such as an optical disc drive, or to connect to a network using a
PC Network Interface Card (NIC).

✍

The PC Card slot can accommodate a Type I or Type II PC Card. This slot is compatible
with Card Bus. Type III PC Cards are not supported.

To insert PC card

✍

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

1 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up.

Inserting PC Card

Insert in the
direction of
the arrow.

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VAIO® Co mput e r

2 Gently push the PC Card into the slot until it is firmly seated in the port and

the release button pops out.

Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins.

When a PC Card is inserted, do not place your computer in a bag or case.
Pressure or shock to a PC Card may damage your computer.

Touching the head of the PC Card will not cause damage to the connector pins,
but damage can occur if the head of the PC Card is sticking out of the computer
while the unit is being transported.

To remove a PC Card

Follow the procedure below when you remove the PC Card while your computer
is on. Failure to follow this procedure may result in a malfunction. If your
computer is turned off, you do not have to follow these instructions.

1 Double-click in the task tray. The “Safely remove ... PC Card” dialog

box appears.

2 Click the dialog box. The message, “Safe to Remove Hardware” appears.

3 Click to close the message.

Release Button

Release button

Release button

4 Press the release button toward the computer. The PC Card pops out.

5 Gently grasp the PC Card and pull it out.

30

Using PC Cards

6 Insert the PC Card slot protector into the empty slot.

Notes on PC Cards

For some PC Cards, if you alternate between normal power operation and

❑

the Standby or Hibernate power management modes while the card is
inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not
recognized. Restart your system to correct the problem.

Some PC Cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC

❑

Card. You can use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See “Displaying
the Sony Notebook Setup Screen” for more information.

Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card

❑

manufacturer.

If an exclamation mark (!) appears on the Device Manager tab in the System

❑

Properties dialog box, remove the software driver and then reinstall it.

You may not be able to use some PC Cards or some functions of the PC Card

❑

with this computer. If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are
orienting the card correctly. See the manual supplied with your PC Card for
more information on its use.

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VAIO® Co mput e r

Using Power Saving Modes

When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, you can take
advantage of power management settings to conserve battery life. In addition to
the normal operating mode, which enables you to turn off specific devices, your
computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate. When
using battery power, be aware that the computer automatically enters Hibernate
mode when the remaining battery charge drops below 5 percent, regardless of the
power management setting you select.

✍

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

Normal mode

Normal mode is the normal state of your computer when it is in use. The power
indicator displays green when your computer is in this mode. To save power, you
can turn off a specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk.

Standby mode

In Standby Mode the computer saves the current state of the system in RAM and
switches off power to the CPU. The amber power indicator flashes in this mode.

To activate Standby mode

1 Press the key combination Fn+Esc. You can also use the PowerPanel™

utility to enter Standby mode.

2 Press any key to return to normal mode.

Hibernate mode

In the Hibernate mode, the state of the system is saved on the hard disk drive and
power is turned off. The power indicator is off in this mode.

32

Using Power Saving Modes

To activate Hibernate mode

1 To activate Hibernate mode, press the key combination Fn+F12, or press the

power button and release it immediately. The “Save to Disk Manager”
screen appears and the computer enters Hibernate mode.

✍

Do not move the computer until its power indicator turns off.

2 Press the power button to return to normal mode.

Notes on power saving modes

When returning from Hibernate mode (by pressing the power button

❑

momentarily) the system status stored on the hard disk is erased and the
computer starts normally.

Standby uses more power than Hibernate.

❑

Standby requires less time than Hibernate to return to normal mode.

❑

33

VAIO® Co mput e r

Connecting a Phone Line

You need to connect a phone cable (not supplied) to take advantage of online
services and the Internet.

✍

In order to register your VAIO® computer, register your software online, and use Sony
Customer Support, you must connect to a phone line.

How to connect a phone cable

1 Open the phone line jack cover, located on the left side of the computer near

the front.

Use care when opening the phone jack cover. Opening it too far may result in
damage to the unit.

Opening Phone Line Jack Cover

34

Phone line
jack cover

Connecting a Phone Line

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

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

3 Plug the other end into the wall jack.

Plugging in Phone Cable

Phone line jack

Phone cable (not supplied)

✍

Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated
telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private branch exchange
(PBX). Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could
cause a malfunction in the internal modem.

If you connect a phone line coming through a splitter, the modem or connected device
may not work properly.

35

VAIO® Co mput e r

Connecting to a LAN

You can connect your computer to 10Base-T and 100Base-TX-type Local Area
Networks (LANs) by using the computer’s Ethernet port. For the detailed
settings and devices needed to connect to the network, ask your network
administrator.

Connecting to LAN

Ethernet
port

36

Warning: Only connect 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the Ethernet
port. Do not connect any other type of network cable or any telephone line.
Connecting cables other than those listed above may result in an electric
current overload and could cause a malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the
port. To connect the unit to the network, contact your network administrator.

If you enable Wake on LAN, the power saving mode will be switched to
Standby mode.

Connecting to a LAN

To set up your ethernet connection

Before you connect to a network, you must enter information about the country
or region you are located in. This information allows your modem to operate
according to the standards of the phone system in your area.

In Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition, there are two places you must enter
location information for your modem. The first entry controls how your modem
dials a phone number, such as whether the phone number requires a long distance
dialing prefix. The second entry controls how your modem interacts with the
local phone network.

To set the Telephony Application Program Interface (TAPI) Country/region

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, click Control Panel, and click the

Printers and Other Hardware category icon.

The Printers and Other Hardware panel appears.

2 Click the Phone and Modem Options control panel icon.

Phone and Modem Options appears.

3 Click the Dialing Rules tab.

4 Select a location from the Locations list, and click Edit...

The Edit Location panel appears.

5 Select your country or region from the Country/region list.

6 Press the Enter key on your keyboard.

The Edit Location panel closes, saving your location selection.

7 In Phone and Modem Options, click OK.

Phone and Modem Options closes.

37

VAIO® Co mput e r

To set the Modem’s Country/region

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, click Control Panel, and click the

Printers and Other Hardware category icon.

The Printers and Other Hardware panel appears.

2 Click the Phone and Modem Options control panel icon.

Phone and Modem Options appears.

3 Click the Modems tab.

4 Select your modem from the Modem list.

5 Click Properties.

The Modem Properties dialog box appears.

6 Click the Advanced tab.

7 Under Country/Region Select, select your country or region from the list.

8 Click OK.

The Modem Properties dialog box closes, saving your location selection.

9 In Phone and Modem Options, click OK.

Phone and Modem Options closes.

To connect to a network

1 Click Start, select My Computer, and click My Network Places under the

Other Places header.

2 Click “Add a network place” under the Network Tasks header, or click “Set

up a home or small office network,” depending on your configuration.

3 Depending on your choice, either the The Add Network Place Wizard or

Network Setup Wizard is displayed.

4 Follow the step-by-step instructions that appear on the screen.

38

Connecting to a Wireless LAN

Connecting to a Wireless LAN

Your computer is equipped with a built-in mini PCI card that allows for wireless
connections. With Sony’s Wireless Local Area Network (LAN) functionality, all
compatible digital devices can communicate freely without cable connections. A
Wireless LAN is a network in which a mobile user can connect to a LAN through
a wireless (radio) connection. You can opt to purchase a Wireless LAN Access
Point to set up a LAN.

Turning On Wireless LAN

To enable Wireless LAN functionality, first locate the Wireless LAN switch that
is located on the left side of the computer, above the PC Card slot. Move the
switch to the ON position. The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front
portion of the computer lights up.

Connecting to a wireless LAN

Wireless LAN
switch

Wireless LAN
indicator

The Wireless LAN Access Point

The Wireless LAN Access Point, which is also called the Access Point, is
designed for building a Wireless LAN environment. If you purchase an Access
Point, you can easily build a wireless LAN environment by plugging the Access
Point into an AC power outlet, and using the provided software with compatible
devices. Because a wireless LAN configuration requires no wiring, you can
operate multiple computers more freely than ever before.

39

VAIO® Co mput e r

You can also connect an Access Point to a telephone line, Integrated Services
Digital Network (ISDN) router, cable modem, or Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL)
modem to share access to the Internet among multiple computers.

✍

For information on available Sony products, go to:
http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan.

Communicating with Access Point (infrastructure)

An infrastructure network is one that extends an existing wired local network to
wireless devices by providing an Access Point. The Access Point bridges the
wireless and wired LAN, and acts as a central controller for the Wireless LAN.
The Access Point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless
devices within a specific range.

To communicate with an Access Point, proceed as follows:

1 Turn on the Wireless LAN switch located on the left side of the computer,

above the PC Card slot. The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front
portion of the computer lights up.

2 Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon in the taskbar.

40

Connecting to a Wireless LAN

3 Click View Available Wireless Networks. The Connect to Wireless Network

dialog box appears.

Connecting to a wireless LAN

4 Select the network you want to use.

5 Type the Network Key. See your network administrator for this information.

6 Click Connect.

41

VAIO® Co mput e r

Communicating via Wireless LAN Access Point

Access Point (not supplied)

Communicating without Access Point (ad-hoc)

An ad-hoc network is one in which a local network is created only by the
wireless devices themselves, with no other central controller or Acess Point.
Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network. You can
set up an ad-hoc network easily at home.

To communicate without an Access Point, proceed as follows:

1 Turn on the Wireless LAN switch located on the left side of the computer,

above the PC Card slot. The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front
portion of the computer lights up.

2 Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon in the taskbar.

3 Click View Available Wireless Networks. The Connect to Wireless Network

dialog box appears.

42

Connecting to a Wireless LAN

4 Cick the Advanced button. The Wireless Network Connection Properties

dialog box appears.

Setting Wireless Network Connection Properties

5 Select the Wireless Networks tab.

6 Click the Add... button. The Wireless Network Properties dialog box

appears.

7 Enter a Network name (SSID). Choose a 6-digit name.

8 Check the box to select Data encryption (WEP enabled).

9 Check the box to select Network Authentication (Shared mode).

10 Clear the box to de-select the option “The key is provided for me

automatically.” Some information boxes become visible.

43

VAIO® Co mput e r

11 Fill in the Network key. Choose a 5-digit name.

12 Click OK. Your new Network name appears in the Preferred networks

window.

13 Click Advanced. The Advanced dialog box appears.

14 Select the option “Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only.

15 Click Close.

16 Click OK.

Turning Off Wireless LAN

To turn off Wireless LAN functionality, locate the Wireless LAN switch that is
located on the left side of the computer, above the PC Card slot. Move the switch
to the OFF position. The Wireless LAN indicator on the bottom left front portion
of the computer turns off.

Notes on using Wireless LAN

Devices connecting to a Wireless LAN using the IEEE802.11a standard

❑

cannot connect to devices using the IEEE802.11b standard.

Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as

❑

channels. Third-party Wireless LAN Access Point channels may be preset to
different channels from Sony devices.

If using a Wireless LAN Access Point, refer to connectivity information

❑

contained in those instructions.

44

Connecting Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by connecting a variety of
peripherals, as discussed in the following sections:

Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive

❑

Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive

❑

Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive

❑

Connecting a USB Mouse

❑

Connecting VAIO Computers

❑

Connecting an i.LINK Device

❑

Connecting an External Display

❑

Connecting a USB Printer

❑

Connecting an External Microphone

❑

Connecting External Speakers

❑

Expanding Your Computer’s Capabilities

❑

45

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Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive

You can connect an optional floppy disk drive (FDD) to the USB port on your
computer.

To connect the floppy disk drive

✍

You do not need to shut down the computer before connecting or disconnecting the
floppy disk drive.

Before removing the FDD, see “To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is
on” for more information.

Plug the USB cable from the floppy disk drive into the USB port on the
computer. The VAIO® logo on the disk drive should be facing up.

Plugging in USB Cable

46

Connecting a Floppy Disk Drive

To insert a floppy disk

1 Hold the floppy disk with the label side facing up.

2 Gently push the floppy disk into the drive until it clicks into place.

Inserting a floppy disk

Floppy
disk

Floppy disk drive

To remove a floppy disk

When you finish using the floppy disk, wait until the LED indicator light

❑

turns off, and then press the Eject button to remove the disk.

Removing a floppy disk

Eject button

LED indicator

To remove the floppy disk drive when the computer is on

1 Double-click the Remove Hardware icon in the task tray.

2 The “Unplug or Eject Hardware” dialog displays.

3 Select the hardware device you wish to remove by clicking it.

4 Click Stop.

47

Change text in this variable definition to document title.

5 Confirm the correct device is selected in the “Stop a Hardware device”

dialog box.

6 The message, “Floppy Disk Drive can now be safely removed from the

system” appears. Click OK.

7 Unplug the floppy disk drive from the computer.

To carry the floppy disk drive

Fold the floppy disk cable into the compartment on the right side.

Notes on handling floppy disks

Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the disk.

❑

Keep disks away from magnets.

❑

Keep disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources.

❑

48

Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive

Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive

You can use an optional optical drive, such as a Sony DVD-ROM or CD-ROM
drive, with your computer. If you use an optional drive when your computer is
running on battery power, the battery life will be shorter. The drive draws power
from the computer through a PC Card.

If you connect a non-Sony DVD drive to your VAIO® computer, the DVD
playback may not function properly. The bundled DVD software must be
installed to play a DVD.

For best performance, it is recommended that you use a Sony compatible
DVD drive.

To connect an optical drive

Procedures for connecting an optical drive may vary, depending on the specific
drive you purchase. See the manual supplied with your optical drive for more
information on its installation and use.

✍

You can connect an optical drive while the computer is on. For specific instructions on
using your supplied Application, Driver, and System Recovery CDs, see “Using Your
Recovery CDs” for more information.

1 Remove the PC Card slot protector from the PC Card slot. See “To remove

the floppy disk drive when the computer is on” for more information.

2 Remove the PC Card from the bottom side of the optical drive.

Removing PC Card

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3 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the SONY logo facing up. See

“Using PC Cards” for details.

Inserting PC Card

Make sure logo faces up

✍

A protective cover is attached to the lens of the optical drive at the factory. Before
using the optical drive, remove the protective cover.

To insert a disc

1 Press the Eject button. The disc tray slides out.

Optical Drive

Eject button

50

Connecting a PC Card Bus Drive

2 Place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up.

3 Push the disc onto the hub until the disc clicks into place.

Inserting Disc

Disc

4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently. The Busy indicator on the drive flashes

while your computer is reading data from the disc.

Flashing Busy Indicator

Busy indicator

To remove the drive

Remove the PC Card from the computer. See “To remove the floppy disk drive
when the computer is on” for more information.

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Notes on CD and DVD discs

Handling CD or DVD discs

Do not touch the surface of the disc.

❑

Do not drop or bend the disc.

❑

Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your discs. Adhesive labels may

❑

come off while the disc is in use in your optical drive, and may cause
damage to the unit.

Cleaning CD or DVD discs

Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause data reading errors.

❑

Proper care of the disc is essential to maintain its reliability. Do not use
solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners or anti­static spray, as they may cause damage to the disc.

For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the

❑

surface from the center outward.

If the disc is badly soiled, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out well,

❑

and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the center out. Wipe off any
remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth.

52

Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive

Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive

You can use an optional i.LINK®* optical disc drive, such as a Sony DVD-ROM
or CD-RW/DVD Combo Drive, with your computer. This Sony VAIO®
computer is preinstalled with software that enables you to create CDs and play
DVD movies. The i.LINK optical disc drive draws power from the computer
through the power cable that is integrated with the VAIO computer Peripheral
Cable. This peripheral cable connects to both the i.LINK port and peripheral
cable DC Out jack on the left side of the computer.

✍

If you use an optional drive when your computer is running on battery power, the
battery life will be shorter.

To connect an i.LINK optical disc drive

Use a VAIO® Computer Peripheral Cable (supplied with the i.LINK drive) to
connect the optical disc drive to the computer.

✍

Before connecting or disconnecting this drive, close any active applications to help
prevent data loss.

1 Turn on power to the computer. Insert the L-shaped plug of the VAIO®

Computer Peripheral Cable into the matching jack on the rear of the i.LINK

†

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

connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper­ating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may
not communicate with each other. Refer to the documentation that came with your compati­ble i.LINK device for information on operating conditions and proper connection. Before
connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as a CD-RW or hard disk
drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

† If you connect and use an optional drive when your computer is running on battery power,

the battery life will be reduced.

53

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drive. Secure the plug by turning the screw on the cable connector
clockwise.

Connecting i.LINK optical disc drive

L-shaped cable
connector

i.LINK cable

i.LINK port
Peripheral device DC Out jack

2 Insert the straight-shaped, two-prong plug of the VAIO® computer

peripheral cable into both the computer’s i.LINK port and peripheral device
DC Out jack.

3 The i.LINK drive’s power indicator lights up, and the computer will

automatically detect and identify the connected drive.

4 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, and select My Computer to verify that

an icon for the i.LINK optical disc drive has been added in the window.

✍

The Sony i.LINK optical disc drive is compatible only with certain Sony VAIO® PCG
series computers preinstalled with Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition or
Professional.

54

Connecting an i.LINK Optical Disc Drive

Notes on using i.LINK optical disc drives

You can use the supplied Application Recovery, Driver Recovery, and

❑

System Recovery CDs with an i.LINK optical disc drive. See “Application,
Driver, and System Recovery CDs” for more information.

Do not use an optional i.LINK optical disc drive and an optional optical disc

❑

drive with PC Card at the same time. Connecting both drives may cause a
system malfunction.

55

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Connecting a USB Mouse

You can connect an optional USB mouse, such as the Sony PCGA-UMS1 series,
to your computer.

To connect a USB mouse

Plug the mouse cable into the USB port. PCGA-UMS1 series drivers have
already been installed.

Connecting a USB Mouse

USB Mouse
(optional)

To USB port

✍

A serial mouse or PS/2® mouse is not compatible with the VAIO® C1 PictureBook®
computer.

See the manual supplied with your mouse for more information on its installation
and use.

56

Connecting VAIO Computers

Connecting VAIO Computers

Connecting with i.LINK

You can use an optional i.LINK®* cable to connect your VAIO® computer to
another VAIO computer that has the preinstalled Microsoft® Windows®
operating system or the Sony Smart Connect software preinstalled. You may use
an i.LINK cable (not supplied) to connect the two systems and then use one
computer to edit, copy, or delete files on the other computer. You can also print
from a printer that is attached to either computer.

Connecting with an i.LINK cable

i.LINK cable (optional)

✍

When you connect two VAIO computers, you must assign each computer a unique
name. The computers can be identified by this unique name when the two computers
are networked together.

To connect VAIO computers that do not have the latest Windows® operating system,
Smart Connect software may be necessary. Consult the Sony Computing Support
Web site for support options (http://www.sony.com/pcsupport).

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

connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper­ating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may
not communicate with each other. Refer to the documentation that came with your compati­ble i.LINK device for information on operating conditions and proper connection. Before
connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as a CD-RW or hard disk
drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

57

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Connecting an i.LINK Device

Your VAIO® computer includes an i.LINK®* S400 (IEEE1394) port, which you
can use to connect a compatible i.LINK device, such as an i.LINK enabled digital
video camera recorder. See the manual supplied with your digital video camera
recorder for more information on its installation and use.

✍

You can purchase compatible i.LINK cables from your local retailer, through the
Sony VAIO® Direct Web site (http://vaio.sonystyle.com), or by calling 1-888-315­7669 (toll free).

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

connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper­ating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may
not communicate with each other. Refer to the documentation that came with your compati­ble i.LINK device for information on operating conditions and proper connection. Before
connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as a CD-RW or hard disk
drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

58

Connecting an i.LINK Device

To connect a digital camcorder

Plug one end of an i.LINK® cable into the S400 port on the left side of

❑

the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out port on the digital
camcorder.

Connecting a Digital Camcorder

To S400

To S400

to DV In/Out

i.LINK cable
(optional)

Digital camcorder

Notes on connecting an i.LINK device

A connection to a Sony digital camcorder is pictured above; your digital

❑

camcorder may need to be connected differently.

See the manual supplied with your digital camcorder for more information

❑

on its installation and use.

Only Sony digital video camera ports labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are

❑

compatible i.LINK devices.

59

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Do not connect more than one digital video camera at a time. The software

❑

supplied with your computer will not recognize multiple cameras.

The i.LINK port does not supply power to external devices. If the external

❑

device requires power from the i.LINK port, you cannot use the device with
the computer.

The computer supports transfer rates up to 400 Mbps; however, the actual

❑

transfer rate is limited to the maximum transfer rate supported by the
external device. If multiple devices are connected, the transfer rate will be
the lowest maximum transfer rate for the connected devices.

The i.LINK® features available may vary depending on the software

❑

applications you use. See the documentation supplied with your software for
more information.

The i.LINK cables compatible with your VAIO® computer include cables

❑

with the following part numbers: VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5-meter cable with a 4­pin connector at each end), VMC-IL4615 (a 1.5 meter-cable with a 4-pin
connector at one end and a 6-pin connector at the other), and VMC-IL4435A
(a 3.5-meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end). You can purchase
these cables from your local retailer, through the Sony VAIO® Direct Web
site (http://www.sonydirect.com), or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).

60

Connecting an External Display

Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display to your VAIO® computer. For example, you
can use the computer with any of the following:

Computer display or monitor (See “To connect a computer display” for more

❑

information)

Projector (See “To connect a projector” for more information)

❑

TV (See “To connect a TV” for more information)

❑

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To connect a computer display

1 First make sure the port replicator is connected to the computer.

2 Connect the computer display’s VGA adapter to the supplied port

replicator’s Monitor port.

Connecting a Display

Computer display

Display cable Power cord

Display adapter

✍

See the manual supplied with your computer display for more information on its
installation and use.

To connect a projector

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

You can connect a projector using the supplied Display adapter.

62

Connecting an External Display

1 First make sure the port replicator is connected to the computer.

2 Plug one end of the VGA signal cable (not supplied) into the port

replicator’s Monitor port, and the other end into the projector’s
corresponding port.

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3 Plug the audio cable into the Headphone jack.

Connecting a Projector

Computer

Projector

to
Headphone

jack

Power cord

Display adapter

✍

See the manual supplied with your projector for more information on its installation

VGA signal cable

(not supplied)

Audio cable

(not supplied)

and use.

You may not be able to display the computer’s LCD and the external display together,
depending on the specific computer display or projector used.

Connect the AC adapter after you finish connecting all other peripheral devices. Turn
on all the peripheral devices before you turn on the computer.

64

Connecting an External Display

To connect a TV

Use the supplied AV cable to connect your TV monitor to your computer.

1 First make sure the port replicator is connected to the computer.

2 Plug the supplied AV cable into the port replicator’s AV/TV Out jack.

3 Plug the other ends of the AV cable into the TV, as shown below.

Connecting a TV

TV Monitor

Power cord

Audio In
Video In

Video

Audio L

Audio R

AV cable (note supplied)

✍

See “Selecting the Display Mode” for more information.

Computer

65

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Connecting a USB Printer

You can connect a Windows® compatible printer to your computer to print
documents.

✍

To use a printer, first install the driver software supplied with your printer.

To connect a printer

Plug the optional USB printer cable into the USB port on your computer and the
USB port on your printer. You can also connect the USB printer cable into the
USB port on the supplied port replicator.

Connecting a Printer

Computer

Power cord

USB port

Printer

USB Printer cable
(optional)

✍

See the manual supplied with your printer for more information on its installation and
use.

66

Connecting an External Microphone

Connecting an External Microphone

You can enhance the quality of sound input by using an external microphone.

✍

Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.

To connect an external microphone

Use the symbol to locate the red-colored Microphone jack. Plug the
microphone cable into this jack.

Connecting a Microphone

Microphone

✍

See the manual supplied with your microphone for more information on its installation
and use.

To record from a microphone or audio equipment

You can record messages, memos, or other recordings in analog by connecting a
microphone or other audio equipment to the Microphone jack of your computer
and then switching the jack functionality. The Microphone jack is for MIC IN
(monaural).

To switch the microphone jack functionality

To switch the Microphone jack functionality for use with a microphone or an
audio device:

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1 Double-click on the task tray located in the lower right corner of the

Desktop window. The Volume Control window appears.

2 From the Options menu, click Properties. The Properties window appears.

3 In the Adjust Volume panel, select Recording, and then click OK. The

Recording Control window appears.

4 Select either Microphone or Stereo Out.

✍

When you are recording using a microphone, select Microphone. If you are recording
using other audio equipment, select Stereo Out.

To adjust sound volume in the Recording Control window

When Microphone or Stereo Out are not displayed in the Recording Control
window, do the following:

1 Select Options and click Properties.

2 Click the item you want to display in Control.

3 Click OK.

✍

You can only adjust the recording volume in the Recording Control window in step 3.
If you adjust the volume in step 1, the adjustment is only effective for playing sound.
It does not adjust the volume for recording sound.

To increase the sound of the microphone

1 Double-click on the task tray located in the lower right corner of the

Desktop window. If Microphone is not displayed, from the Options menu
click Properties, select Microphone from the Control panel, and then click
OK.

2 From the Options menu, select Advanced Controls. The Advanced buttons,

where applicable, will display in the Volume Control window.

3 From the Microphone panel, click Advanced. The Advanced Controls for

Microphones dialog box displays.

4 Click Mic 20dB in the Other Controls window section, and then click Close.

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Connecting an External Microphone

To adjust sound device volume

You can adjust the sound device volume for playing or recording.

To adjust the volume when playing, double-click in the task tray located in
the bottom right corner of the Desktop window. The Volume Control window is
displayed.

To adjust the sound of other devices, do the following:

1 Select Options and click Properties.

2 In the Volume Adjust window, select Playback.

3 Click the check box of the item you want to display in Control.

4 Click OK.

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.

PC Beep Adjust the beep sound when inserting or removing

the PC Card and other devices.

Telephone Adjust the modem or telephone line volume.

Microphone Adjust the internal or external microphone volume.

Line Adjust the audio equipment volume.

CD Audio Adjust the volume of the CD in the optional optical

drive.

3D Wide Widen the sound effect. (This is effective for games

and similar applications.)

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Connecting External Speakers

You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external
speakers.

To connect external speakers

Use the symbol to locate the Headphone jack. Plug the speaker cable into

❑

this jack.

Connecting external speakers

Speakers

Computer

Notes on using external speakers

Make sure that the speakers you purchased are designed for computer use.

❑

Before you turn on the speakers, turn down the volume.

❑

Do not place floppy disks or other data disks on or near the speakers; the

❑

speakers’ magnetic field may damage the data on the disks.

See the manual supplied with your speakers for more information on their
installation and use.

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Expanding Your Computer’s Capabilities

Expanding Your Computer’s Capabilities

The following peripheral devices can be connected to your computer, to expand
the capabilities of your computer and enhance its versatility to meet your various
business or personal needs:

A Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

❑

The Wireless LAN Access Point

❑

✍

For information on available Sony products, go to: http://www.sonystyle.com/vaio.

Personal Digital Assistant

A handheld PDA is the quintessential personal planner and entertainment center
that fits in your pocket. With a PDA, you can easily perform the following
functions:

Enter your schedule details in the calendar and view them by the day, week,

❑

or month, and even set an alarm to remind you of important events.

Keep your contact names, addresses, phone numbers, and other details in the

❑

address book, and find them when you need them.

Add tasks to the To Do List, prioritize them, and assign them due dates.

❑

Synchronize your data with the software on your computer, to back up your

❑

data.

Track expenses when you are out of the office, then transfer the data to your

❑

computer.

Exchange data with your computer.

❑

The Wireless LAN Access Point

The Wireless LAN Access Point, which is also called the Access Point, is
designed for building a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) environment. You
can easily build a wireless LAN environment by plugging the Access Point into
an AC power outlet, and using the provided software. Because a wireless LAN
configuration requires no wiring, you can operate multiple computers more
freely than ever before.

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You can also connect your Access Point to a telephone line, Integrated Services
Digital Network (ISDN) router, cable modem, or Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL)
modem to share access to the Internet among multiple computers.

✍

For information on available Sony products, go to:
http://www.sonystyle.com/wirelesslan.

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

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

Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen

❑

Controlling Power Management

❑

Displaying Battery Information

❑

Selecting the Display Mode

❑

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Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen

✍

See the manual supplied with your computer display for more information on its
installation and use.

To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen:

1 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar.

2 Point to All Programs and click Sony Notebook Setup.

Sony Notebook Setup Screen

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

tabs” for more information.

4 After you finish making your changes, click OK.

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Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen

Sony Notebook Setup tabs

Tab Description

About This Computer Display system information, including memory

capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.

Initial Setting Change the volume of the sounds that play while the

operating system is loading. Select the order of drives
and devices from which you want to load the operating
system. You can specify the hard drive as well as other
drives inserted into your computer.

Touchpad Change touchpad settings, or enable/disable touchpad

functionality if you are using an external mouse.

Power On Password Set the password to secure your computer.

Bass Boost Set the Bass Boost option.

✍

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

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Controlling Power Management

The PowerPanel™ utility allows you to control the power management of your
computer and provides key information about system activity and battery life.
The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your computer’s battery
power. You can also refer to PowerPanel Help for more detailed information. To
activate a profile or command, see “Displaying Battery Information” for details.

To view the Power Management status icons

The Power Management status icons are displayed in the task tray at the lower
right side of your screen. Move the pointer over the icons to see the tool tip that
displays information about the active profile. The Battery status icon indicates
battery power level and the CPU status icon indicates the performance level of
the CPU.

To activate the Power Management toolbar

1 Right-click the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.

2 Select Toolbars from the pop-up menu, and then click Power Management.

The Power Management toolbar appears on the taskbar.

The current profile icon is highlighted on the Power Management toolbar. It is
the first icon farthest to the left, and its appearance changes depending on which
power management profile is currently selected. To change the power
management profile, click the current profile icon, and then select a profile from
the pop-up list. See “Power Management profiles” for a description of available
options.To select another power management command, click that icon in the
Power Management toolbar.

✍

When you use the battery pack to power your computer, your system 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 pack to power your computer.

Refer to the PowerPanel Help for information on customizing the Power Management
toolbars.

You can change the power management settings, such as the system timer and the
brightness of the screen.

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Controlling Power Management

To customize Power Management settings

1 Click the Current Profile icon on the Power Management toolbar.

2 Select Edit/Create Profiles from the menu.

3 Click a profile whose setting you want to change from the list in the left

field.

4 Double-click an item whose setting you want to change from the list in the

right field.

5 Click the desired setting.

6 Click the File menu, and then click Save.

7 Click the File menu, and then click Exit.

Power Management profiles

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

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any of the predefined profiles (except for the Disable Power Management
profile), or you can create your own profile to suit your portable computing
needs. The predefined profiles are:

Icon Description

Maximum Performance

Provides the best system performance while still conserving power.

Maximum Battery Life

Provides power saving features to give you maximum battery life and
good performance. It slows the computer and puts it into Standby
mode after a specified time period.

Ultimate Battery Life

Extends the Maximum Battery Life by disabling ports such as the
i.LINK port.
This profile disables many applications such as Memory Stick,
DVGate, and Smart Capture.

Disable Power Management

Turns off all power management features such as Standby and
Hibernate modes.
You can not change the settings of this profile.

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AC Power

The power management state when AC power is in use. Similar to the
Power Management Off setting. 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 it conserves power. This option
is ideal for slide show presentations. You can establish settings for
LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Standby, and Standby to optimize
power management for your system.

Icon Description

Camera

Optimizes performance and power requirements for camera usage.

Word Processing

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

Spreadsheet

Optimizes performance and power requirements for spreadsheet
applications.

Communications

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

Automatic Profile Selection

Automatically switches to a profile suitable for active applications.

Controlling Power Management

✍

Do not choose the Automatic Profile Selection when connected to AC power.

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Power Management commands

PowerPanel™ also provides power management commands that you can use to
activate specific power management functions and to control power for a specific
device. You can use these commands to override a profile setting or initiate an
immediate action.

Icon Description

Standby

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

Hibernate

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

LCD (Video) Standby

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

Conserving battery power

When using the computer with a battery, the LCD display and the hard disk drive
can be set to switch off automatically to conserve battery power.

See “Power Management profiles” for more information.

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Displaying Battery Information

Displaying Battery Information

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

To activate the Battery Information toolbar

1 Right-click the taskbar at the bottom of the screen.

2 Select Toolbars from the pop-up menu, and then click Battery Information.

The Battery Information toolbar appears on the taskbar.

You can also view the total capacity remaining in the battery by placing the
pointer over the batter status icon in the task tray on the lower right side of the
screen.

Battery Information Toolbar

❑

Percentage indicator — Displays the percentage of the remaining capacity.

❑

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

Battery icon descriptions

Battery icon Battery status

Charging

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Battery icon Battery status

Fully charged

Discharging

No battery

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Displaying Battery Information

Displaying detailed battery information

Double-click the battery icon on the task tray to display the Battery Information
window. The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains
information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.

Battery Information Window

Customizing the Battery Information toolbar and alarm system

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

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Changing the window design of Sony software

To change the window design

1 Click the Start button, then select Control Panel.

2 In the left window pane of Control Panel, click “Switch to Classic View.”

3 Double-click UI Design Selector.

4 Click << or >> and select the desired design.

5 Click Apply. The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The

window design for your Sony software will match the "UI Design Selector"
window.

6 To try another selection, click << or >> and then click OK to close the UI

Design Selector.

✍

This feature is available with UI Design Selector-compatible software only.

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Selecting the Display Mode

Selecting the Display Mode

This notebook uses the Intel® video controller, which enables you to select the
desired display when the notebook is connected to an external monitor. When
you connect an external display, you can switch the display mode between your
notebook’s LCD display and the external monitor.

To select the display mode

1 Click Start, then point to Control Panel.

2 Click Display to access the Display Properties window.

3 Click the Settings tab, click the Advanced button, and select the Intel®

Graphics Technology tab to display the Intel® 82815 Graphics Controller
Properties dialog box.

Intel® 82815 Graphics Controller Properties Screen

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4 Click the Intel® Graphics Technology tab, then click the Graphics Properties

button. If you want to use the TV as a display, deselect the Synchronous
Display Mode box and click Apply. You cannot use the TV and another
display simultaneously.

5 Click the Device tab.

6 Select the type of display.

✍

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

Turn on the notebook after you turn on the peripheral devices.

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Adding Memory

In the future you may want to install memory modules to expand the
functionality of your computer. See the Specifications flyer supplied with
your computer for the amount of memory preinstalled on your computer.
Expansion memory modules are available as options. For memory
upgrades, use only PC100 (CL2) SDRAM SP-DIMM modules. This
section provides you with information on removing and replacing a
memory module:

Precautions and Procedures

❑

Removing a Memory Module

❑

Installing a Memory Module

❑

Confirming Added Memory Capacity

❑

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

Precautions and Procedures

The procedures described below assume familiarity with the general terminology
associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory
compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.

Sony recommends that memory upgrades be performed by an authorized Sony
Service Center. To find the nearest center or agent, go to:
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

Be careful when installing a memory module in your computer, and be sure to
observe the proper safety precautions listed below. Mistakes that occur when
installing or removing a memory module may cause a malfunction.

Disconnect the system from its power source and from any

❑

telecommunications links, networks, or modems before you open the system
or follow any of the procedures described below. Failure to do so may result
in personal injury or equipment damage.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage disk drives and other components.

❑

Perform the procedures described below only at an ESD workstation. If such
a station is not available, do not work in a carpeted area, and do not handle
materials that produce or hold static electricity (cellophane wrappers, for
example). Ground yourself by maintaining contact with an unpainted metal
portion of the chassis while performing the procedure.

Do not open the memory module package until you are ready to install the

❑

module. The package protects the module from ESD.

Use the special protective package to store a memory module and prevent

❑

ESD, or wrap the memory module in aluminum foil.

Typical expansion memory configuration

Total System Memory (MB) On board (MB) Slot (MB)

128 128 0

256 128 128

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Removing a Memory Module

Removing a Memory Module

1 Turn off the computer and all peripheral devices.

2 Disconnect the power cord and all cables from the computer, and remove the

battery.

3 Wait for the computer to cool down.

✍

The interior of the computer becomes extremely hot during operation. Wait at least
one hour for the computer to cool down before you remove the screws.

4 Use an appropriate screwdriver to loosen and remove the four screws at the

bottom of the computer.

To avoid damaging the computer, do not remove or loosen any other screws.

Removing Bottom Screws

Screws

5 Slide the LCD lock lever and lift the cover.

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

6 Slide the keyboard toward the LCD display, then lift it away slightly.

Lifting the Keyboard

7 Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side.

8 Gently turn the keyboard over the touchpad. Take care not to detach the

cable when lifting the keyboard.

9 Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your

computer) to discharge static electricity.

10 Remove the memory module by pulling out the tabs (see arrows No. 1), and

pulling out the module in the direction of arrow No. 2.

Removing a Memory Module

11 Gently replace the keyboard, then press it into your computer.

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Removing a Memory Module

12 Close the computer cover and replace the four (4) fastening screws on the

bottom of the computer.

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

Installing a Memory Module

To add a memory module, proceed as follows:

1 Turn off the computer and all peripheral devices.

2 Disconnect the power cord and all cables from the computer, and remove the

battery.

3 Wait for the computer to cool down.

✍

The interior of the computer becomes extremely hot during operation. Wait at least
one hour for the computer to cool down before you remove the screws.

4 Use an appropriate screwdriver to loosen and remove the four screws at the

bottom of the computer.

To avoid damaging the computer, do not remove or loosen any other screws.

Removing Bottom Screws

Screws

5 Slide the LCD lock lever and lift the cover.

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Installing a Memory Module

6 Slide the keyboard toward the LCD display, then lift it away slightly.

Lifting the Keyboard

7 Lift the keyboard from the LCD display side.

8 Gently turn the keyboard over the touchpad. Take care not to detach the

cable when lifting the keyboard.

9 Touch a metal object (such as the connector panel on the back of your

computer) to discharge static electricity.

10 Remove the existing memory module.

11 Remove the new memory module from its packaging.

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

12 Install the memory module by sliding the module into the open slot.

Do not touch any part of the motherboard or the other components inside the
computer.

Installing New Memory Module

13 Snap the connectors into place when the board is correctly seated.

14 Close the computer cover and replace the four (4) fastening screws on the

bottom of the computer.

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Confirming Added Memory Capacity

Confirming Added Memory Capacity

1 Turn on the computer.

2 Click Start on the Windows® taskbar, point to All Programs, and then click

Sony Notebook Setup.

3 Click the About This Notebook tab. Verify that the System Memory

displayed in the left panel matches the amount of memory installed.

✍

If the amount of memory is not correct, shut down the computer, and reinstall the
memory module. See “Removing a Memory Module” and “Installing a Memory
Module” for instructions. The installed video card uses system memory, and the
amount of memory displayed in Windows may be up to 11MB less than the actual
installed memory.

Sony Notebook Setup Dialog Box

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

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About the Software on Your Computer

Your VAIO® computer is ready to help you work, play, learn, and
communicate as soon as you turn it on. This section gives you the
following:

An overview of the various software that come with your computer and the

❑

activities you can perform with your software

Details on your Sony application, driver, and system recovery CDs

❑

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

Overview

Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software listed below,
depending on the configuration you purchased. Preinstalled software may not be
identical to retail versions, or include supporting documentation.

Adobe Acrobat® Reader™

Adobe Systems Inc.

Acrobat Reader software enables you to view, navigate, and print electronic
documents in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF), an open file format that
is intended to preserve the fidelity of documents created on all major computer
platforms.

Adobe Photoshop® Elements

Adobe Systems Inc.

Using state-of-the-art image editing tools, you can unleash your artistic ability
and create digital images for print, e-mail and posting to the Web. The versatile
image capturing options allow you to start working with digital and traditional
photos immediately. Explore endless creative possibilities for your personal
images with Adobe Photoshop Elements.

America Online®

America Online, Inc.

America Online is a popular Internet online service. Stay in touch with family
and friends with easy-to-use e-mail. Manage your personal finances, get the latest
news and sports scores, and chat with thousands of others who share your
interests.

Apple QuickTime™

Apple Computer Inc.

QuickTime is the Apple technology that makes video, sound, music, 3D, and
virtual reality come alive for our Internet browser and Windows.

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About the Software on Your Computer

ArcSoft PhotoPrinter® 2000 Pro

ArcSoft, Inc.

ArcSoft PhotoPrinter 2000 is an easy-to-use, advanced printing program that lets
you quickly lay out multiple images in multiple sizes on a single sheet of paper.
PhotoPrinter Pro offers a wide selection of templates including landscape,
portrait, free style, mixed sizes, custom templates and more. The application
includes enhancement tools and special effects for improving photos while
giving you the ability to add text to any image.

DigitalPrint

Sony Electronics Inc.

This image management software makes it fun and easy to edit, import, and
organize your digital pictures in a photo album for rich digital printing to any
standard color laser or ink-jet printer. DigitalPrint can also be used to make
custom CD labels for your audio CDs.

DVgate™

Sony Electronics Inc.

Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LINK®

*

connector and capture
your own video clips and still images. You can edit the clips from your video, add
others, and combine clips into new movie segments. You can also save your
images in a variety of popular file formats.

EarthLink™ Network Total Access

EarthLink Network Inc.

An Internet Service Provider that supplies access, information, and assistance to
its customers, introducing them to the Internet. Member benefits include e-mail,
newsgroups, a Personal Start Page, a free 6 MB Web site, a member magazine,
and 24-hour technical support.

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

connection. The i.LINK connection may vary, depending on the software applications, oper­ating system and compatible i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may
not communicate with each other. Refer to the documentation that came with your compati­ble i.LINK device for information on operating conditions and proper connection. Before
connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as a CD-RW or hard disk
drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

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VAIO® Computer Quick Start

Microsoft® Internet Explorer

Microsoft Corp.

Internet Explorer delivers the Web the way you want it. It is safe, easy to use, and
you can personalize how you access the Web. Outlook Express and other tools in
Internet Explorer also help you have a great experience when you are on the
Web.

Microsoft® Word

Microsoft Corp.

Microsoft Word makes it easy to create shared Web, e-mail, and print documents
for use around the world. It embraces HTML as a first-class file format and
extends Word’s ease-of-use to the Web and e-mail. Word also extends that ease­of-use to international users, making it simple to create multilingual documents.

MovieShaker™

Sony Electronics Inc.

Sony’s original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have
transitions, background music and text. Just import your video clips and “shake”
with a click of the mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to
share with family and friends.

PC-Cillin® 2000

Trend Micro, Inc.

PC-Cillin provides portable, easy-to-use, real-time antivirus security at your
computer’s entry point (beaming, synchronization, Internet access) to defend
against potential threats hidden inside files, e-mail, or on the Web.

PictureGear™

Sony Electronics Inc.

This image management software displays images from your hard drive, a Sony
digital still camera, or a Sony Mavica® camera. The images appear in a
convenient light-table format, so that you can easily view the contents of an
entire folder.

Quicken®

Intuit, Inc.

Quicken is a fast, easy way to organize your finances. Quicken works just like
your checkbook, so it is easy to learn and use. Quicken manages all your
finances, bank accounts, credit cards, investments, and loans. You can even pay
your bills online.

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