Sony PCV-RX581, PCV-RX570, PCV-RX554 Quick Start Guide

VAIO Digital Studio™
Computer QuickStart

Contents

Welcome.................................................................5

Features......................................................................................... 5

Unpacking Your Computer ............................................................ 8

To Choose an Ergonomic Location for your Computer................ 10

Setting Up Your

VAIO Digital Studio Computer............................11

To Set Up Your Computer ........................................................... 11

To Turn On Your Computer ......................................................... 16

To Register your Computer ......................................................... 17

To Set up your dial-up connection............................................... 17

To Use the Stand by Mode .......................................................... 19

To Use the System Hibernate Mode ............................................ 20

To Shut Down Your Computer .................................................... 21

About the Software on Your Computer .............23

Troubleshooting ..................................................29

Topics........................................................................................... 29

Notes on Use............................................................................... 40

For Answers to Your Software Questions.................................... 45

Resources ................................................................................... 48

Index .....................................................................49

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

4

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO Digital Studio™
computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia computer combines
state-of-the-art computer functionality with the latest audio/video and
information technology features.

Features

VAIO® AV Applications

This suite of Sony original applications includes PictureGear™, Smart Capture,
DVgate™, DigitalPrint, SonicStage, MovieShaker™, VisualFlow™, and Media
Bar™ DVD Player. These software applications make it easy to use advanced
multimedia techniques to develop your personal audio and video creations. Using
the i.LINK ports, you can capture, view, and share both still and video images,
then catalog everything for fast, easy storage and retrieval.

DVD-RW drive (Not available on all models)

This new optical storage technology provides increased storage capacity and a
dynamic multimedia computing experience. Your state-of-the-art DVD-RW drive
writes to DVD-R/DVD-RW and CD-R/CD-RW media, and plays your favorite
DVDs and CDs. This drive also functions as the ideal solution for making
backups and archiving data, with the ability to store up to 4.7 GB of data on a
single DVD-R/DVD-RW media (You can store up to 650 MB of data on a single
CD-R/CD-RW media). Save movies, videos and still images to share with family
and friends.

DVD-ROM drive (Not available on all models)

This optical storage technology provides increased storage capacity and a rich
multimedia computing experience. Your DVD-ROM drive plays both DVDs and
CDs.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

CD-RW drive (Not available on all models)

This drive is the ideal solution for making backups and archiving data, with the
ability to store up to 650 MB of removable, rewritable storage on a single
rewritable CD. Save your movies to CD-R or CD-RW media and share videos
and images with family and friends.

CD-ROM drive (Not available on all models)

You can play your favorite audio and video CDs using this high-quality CD­ROM drive.

i.LINK® (IEEE1394) interface

Two built-in i.LINK ports, located on the front and rear panels, provide you with
digital connection capability. The i.LINK name and logo identify a high-speed
communication interface, which allows you to easily connect compatible digital
camcorders.

✍

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.

Please 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 an optical or hard disk drive,
confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

VAIO S m art™ keyboard

This PS/2® keyboard has programmable shortcut buttons for launching your
favorite programs or accessing the Internet.

Sony audio and video quality

Take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and
entertainment software with the Sony high-fidelity audio system, high-powered
3-D graphics, and “Sony-Tuned” MPEG digital video playback.

6

Features

Microsoft® Windows XP™ Home Edition operating system

Your system includes this latest consumer operating system from Microsoft.

Preinstalled software

All the software on your computer is preinstalled, configured, and ready for you
to use right out of the box.

Communications

You have the choice of a variety of popular online services to browse the Internet,
access e-mail, send faxes, and much more.

Exceptional performance

Your computer includes an Intel® processor, a 10Base-T/100Base-TX Fast
Ethernet interface, and a V.90 data/fax modem.

✍

Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this
section. To view the specific hardware configuration for your system, see the
Specifications sheet.

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

ernment regulations.

*

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Unpacking Your Computer

Computer and Supplied Accessories

Computer and accessories

Display (Sold separately)

System Unit

Speakers

Power Cord

Modem Cable

AC Adapter (Speaker)

Mouse

Keyboard

Manuals

VAIO Digital Studio™ Computer QuickStart — Contains information on

❑

unpacking and setting up your computer, supplementary updates, support
information, and software information.

❑ The VAIO Digital Studio™ Computer User Guide is available

electronically on your computer’s hard drive. To access the online manual:

1 Click Start in the Windows Taskbar, then click VAIO Help and Support.

2 From the VAIO Help and Support menu, click VAIO User Guide.

Safety Information — Provides safety and legal information about your

❑

VAIO computer.

8

Unpacking Your Computer

Specifications — Describes the hardware and physical configurations of

❑

your VAIO computer.

Microsoft® Windows XP™ Home Edition Quick Start Guide — Explains

❑

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

Recovery CDs

System Recovery CD(s) — Enables you to restore the software that shipped

❑

with your computer if it becomes corrupted or is erased. System Recovery
CDs can only be used to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you
purchased.

Application Recovery CD(s) — Enables you to reinstall individual

❑

applications if they become corrupted or are erased.

Driver Recovery CD — Enables you to restore device drivers if they

❑

become corrupted or are erased.

Software Library

The Software Library contains the Microsoft software license agreement and the
Sony end-user license agreement.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

To Choose an Ergonomic Location for your
Computer

Before you get started, find the best location for your new computer.

Planning your workspace

Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support

❑

the computer and other peripheral equipment.

Ve n t il a t i o n — Leave at least eight inches of space on the left and back sides

❑

of your computer to enable proper ventilation.

Placement of the keyboard, mouse, and other input devices — Place

❑

your keyboard, mouse, and other input devices so that your arms and hands
are in a relaxed, comfortable position. The keyboard should be directly in
front of you. Adjust the level of the keyboard so that your lower arms are
parallel to the floor. Keep your wrists in a relaxed position when you are
using the keyboard—not angled up or down. Use the palmrest only briefly,
for resting. While typing, never use the palmrest or rest your hands on the
table. Position the mouse at the same level as the keyboard. Hold the mouse
with a relaxed hand, and use your whole arm to move it. Take breaks during
sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the mouse or a joystick may
strain muscles or tendons.

Furniture and posture — Sit in a chair with good back support and

❑

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

Viewing angle of the display — Position the display 18 to 26 inches

❑

directly in front of you, with the top of the screen at or a little below eye
level. Use the display’s tilting feature to find the best position. You can
reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by placing the display in the proper
position.

Lighting — Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare

❑

and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on
the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help
reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.

10

Setting Up Your VAIO

Setting Up Your VAIO
Digital Studio Computer

Digital Studio Computer

Your computer has many new and exciting features. This section contains

Your computer has many new and exciting features. This section contains
information on setting up your computer and peripheral devices.

information on setting up your computer and peripheral devices.

To Set Up Your Computer

To Set Up Your Computer

This section illustrates how to set up your computer and install peripheral

This section illustrates how to set up your computer and install peripheral
devices.

devices.

Connecting a CRT display (monitor)

Connecting a CRT display (monitor)

1 Plug the display cable into the Monitor port.

1 Plug the display cable into the Monitor port.

2 If necessary, plug the display cable into the rear of the display.

2 If necessary, plug the display cable into the rear of the display.

Connecting a CRT display

Connecting a CRT display

✍

✍

Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an

Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an
emergency.

emergency.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

HEADPHONES

S

L

Connecting the speakers

1 Plug the cable attached to the left speaker into the L Out jack on the back of

the right speaker.

2 Plug the cable attached to the right speaker into the Headphones jack.

3 Plug the jack end of the AC adapter cord into the DC In jack on the back of

the right speaker and plug the other end into a grounded AC wall outlet or
power strip.

Connecting the speakers

ERIA

12

To Set Up Your Computer

PRINTER

i.LINK
S400

KEYBOARD

MOUSE

USB NETWORK

ACT

LINK

Connecting the keyboard and mouse

1 Plug the keyboard cable into the Keyboard port on the back of the computer.

2 Plug the mouse cable into the Mouse port.

Connecting the keyboard and mouse

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

4

3

2

1

LINE

TELEPHONE

MONITOR

Connecting the modem cable and power cords

1 Unplug your phone’s cable from the wall jack, and plug it into the Telephone

jack on the computer.

2 Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the Line jack on the computer, and

then plug the other end of the cable into the wall jack.

Connecting the phone and modem cables

14

Your computer has a protective sticker covering the Ethernet port located
on the rear panel. Connect only 10Base-T and 100Base-TX cables to the
Ethernet port. Using other cables or a telephone cable may result in an
electric current overload and can cause a malfunction, excessive heat or fire
in the port. For help on connecting to a network, see your network
administrator.

To Set Up Your Computer

KEYBOARD

MOUSE

PRINTER

HEADPHONES

LINE IN

USB NETWORK

ACT

LINK

i.LINK
S400

3 Plug the power cord into the back of the computer.

4 Plug both the display and power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a

power strip.

Connecting the power cords

SERIAL

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

To Turn On Your Computer

Turning on your computer

1 Press the power switch on the computer to turn on the power.

2 Press the power switch on the display to turn on the power.

3 Press the power switch on the right speaker to turn on the power.

✍

When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new
equipment and display a dialog box that asks you to restart your computer. Please
respond to this request immediately.

To turn on your computer

16

To Register Your Computer

To Register Your Computer

Take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive
these benefits by registering your computer:

Sony Customer Support — Communicate with a Support Representative

❑

to troubleshoot problems you may be having with your computer.

Limited warranty — Protect your investment. See the Warranty Card for

❑

more details.

You are prompted to register your computer the first time you turn on the unit. Follow

✍

the on-screen instructions to complete the registration process. If you are not able to
register your computer during the first session, you are provided with additional
registration opportunities later.

To Set Up Your Dial-up Connection

The first time you turn your computer on, follow these steps to set up your
dial-up connection:

1 Click Start from the Windows taskbar and select All Programs.

2 Point to Accessories, point to Communications, and then click New

Connection Wizard. The Location Information window appears.

Location Information window

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

3 Enter in your information as requested. Click OK. The Phone and Modem

Options window appears.

Phone and Modem Options window

4 Click to select your dialing location and then click OK. The New Connection

Wizard appears.

New Connection Wizard window

5 Follow the onscreen instructions to finish setting up your Internet

connection.

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To Use the Stand by Mode

To Use the Stand by Mode

When you plan to stop using your computer for a short period of time, you can
put it in Stand by mode instead of turning it off completely. Putting the computer
in Stand by mode saves energy and allows a quick return to normal computer use.
You can use any of the following four methods for activating the Stand by mode.

✍

Save your work, close all applications, and close your Internet connection, if
applicable. Leave the Windows® operating system running.

Setting the computer to enter Stand by mode using the Stand
by key

Press the (Stand by) key on the top of the keyboard. The computer goes into
Stand by mode.

Setting the computer to enter Stand by mode using the
Windows taskbar

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Turn Off Computer.

2 Select Stand by.

3 Click OK. The computer goes into Stand by mode.

Setting the computer to enter Stand by mode using the Power
button

Briefly press the Power button on the front panel to place your computer into
Stand by mode.

Setting the computer enter Stand by mode automatically

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, click Control Panel, then select the

category, Performance and Maintenance. The Performance and Maintenance
dialog box appears.

2 Click the Control Panel icon for Power Options. The Power Options

Properties dialog box appears.

3 Select the Power Schemes tab. Choose an option from the Power schemes

drop-down list.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

To save the settings under a name that is not offered in the Power schemes drop-

✍

down menu, choose your settings and then click Save As.

4

Click Apply and then click OK.

The computer will go into Stand by mode according to your settings.

Resuming from Stand by mode

There are two ways to bring your computer back from Stand by mode:

❑

Press the space bar on your keyboard.

❑

Briefly press the power button on your computer.

Stand by mode indicators

You can identify which mode the computer is in by the color of the power
indicator light.

Color Mode

Amber Computer is in Stand by mode.
Blue Computer is in Normal mode, ready to use.
No color Computer is turned off or in Hibernate mode.

To Use the System Hibernate Mode

System hibernate mode enables your computer to store everything in its memory
to the hard disk drive before shutting down. When you bring the system out of
hibernation mode, it returns to the previous state.

Setting the computer to enter Hibernate mode

You can set your computer to automatically enter hibernate mode after a certain
time period, by following these steps:

1

Click Start in the Windows taskbar, click Control Panel, then select the
category, Performance and Maintenance. The Performance and Maintenance
dialog box appears.

2

Click the Control Panel icon for Power Options. The Power Options
Properties dialog box appears.

20

To Shut Down Your Computer

3 In the section, Settings for Home/Office Desk (default Power scheme), select

the Power Schemes tab. Click the System hibernate drop-down list and select
the period of inactivity before your computer goes into hibernate mode.

4 Select the Hibernate tab and verify that Hibernate is enabled with a check

mark in the Enable hibernation check box.

5 Click Apply and then click OK.

Your computer is set to go into hibernation mode automatically, according to
your settings.

To Shut Down Your Computer

When you are ready to turn off your computer for an extended period of time, use
this procedure.

To avoid loss of data, do not use the Power switch to turn off the computer.

Turning off your computer

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Turn Off Computer. The Turn

Off Computer dialog box appears.

2 Select the Turn Off option and click OK.

✍

Respond to any prompts about saving your documents.

3 Wait for your computer to turn off automatically—the power indicator light

turns off.

4 Turn off any peripheral devices connected to your computer.

✍

If you plan to turn off your computer for a short period of time, you may want to use
Stand by mode instead.

About the Power switch

If your system stops responding, press and hold the Power switch for more than
four seconds to force your system to shut down. You may need to repeat this
procedure if your system does not shut down on the first attempt.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

22

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 provides an overview
of the software titles preinstalled on your computer.

✍

Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software applications listed,
depending on the system configuration you purchased.

Adobe® Acrobat Reader®

Adobe Systems Inc.

Acrobat Reader software allows you to view, navigate, and print electronic documents in
Adobe’s 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 (On selected models)

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.

Adobe® Premiere® LE (On selected models)

Adobe Systems Inc.

Adobe Premiere LE offers interface and editing tools for producing movies for video,
multimedia, or the Web. View source clips and edited footage simultaneously on-screen.
You can create your own personal video clips that are up to three hours in length, with
complete audio-video synchronization.

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.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Arcsoft PhotoPrinter™ 2000 Pro

ArcSoft Inc.

PhotoPrinter Pro is an easy-to-use, yet 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. With PhotoPrinter
2000 Pro you can create business cards, handouts, calendars, mailing labels, and much
more.

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
inkjet printer. Digital Print 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® port and capture your own video
clips and still images. You can edit clips from your video, add new clips, 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.

Media Bar™ DVD Player

Sony Electronics Inc.

Media Bar DVD Player is created especially for high-quality DVD playback. You can
enjoy the superior digital video quality and the effects features. You can rewind or fast­forward scenes from the DVD Player monitor as you would with any ordinary DVD
player, to easily find the scene you want to view. Typical DVD playback features are
available, such as multiple angles, audio language tracks, and subtitles. Media Bar DVD
Player seamlessly integrates a premium audio/visual experience with an easy-to-use
software interface.

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About the Software on Your Computer

Microsoft® Internet Explorer

Microsoft Corp.

Internet Explorer delivers the World Wide Web the way you want it. It's secure, easy to
use, and you can personalize how you access the Internet. Outlook Express and other
features of Internet Explorer deliver a great Internet experience.

Microsoft Office XP Professional (On selected models)

Microsoft Corp.

Microsoft Office XP redefines the relationship between people and software by providing
a smarter, simpler way of working. New Office XP features include context-sensitive
smart tags, enhanced formatting options, and more, that enable you to continually
integrate additional services into Office and access information anytime.

Microsoft Office XP Small Business Edition (On selected models)

Microsoft Corp.

With Microsoft Office XP you’ll find a powerful new technology that will help you get
work done more quickly by providing real-time, context-sensitive options for important
actions, from formatting to error correction. Task panes consolidate important tasks into a
single integrated view, enabling you to conduct searches, launch and format documents,
and view the contents of your Clipboard from one location.

Microsoft® Outlook® Express

Microsoft Corp.

This messaging tool that takes your e-mail and newsgroup communications to new
heights. Outlook Express is easy to set up and use, and provides you with secure,
personalized, and comprehensive features that protect and enhance your online
communication experience.

Microsoft® Word (On selected models)

Microsoft Corp.

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

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

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® 2002

Intuit Inc.

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

RealJukebox®

RealNetworks Inc.

RealJukebox is a popular digital music system that gives you the ability to easily acquire,
play and manage digital music files. You can locate and download your favorite music
from the Internet and organize your own personal music collection.

RealPlayer®

RealNetworks Inc.

RealPlayer is a high-quality streaming media player that supports many digital media
formats. The user-friendly interface has enhanced navigation capabilities, allowing you to
access and enjoy audio and video programming over the Internet. RealPlayer is your
gateway to a superb Internet multimedia experience.

Smart Capture

Sony Electronics Inc.

Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia messages via e-mail. Smart Capture
manages the i.LINK connection between your notebook and a Sony Digital Handycam
Camcorder that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture compressed video
or still images and save them to your hard disk drive or share via e-mail. A smart solution
for computer, digital audio/video and network convergence.

26

About the Software on Your Computer

SonicStage

Sony Electronics Inc.

This new jukebox application adds a host of new features to its predecessor, OpenMG™
Jukebox. Continuing to take advantage of Sony’s copyright-protected ATRAC3™ format
for high-quality digital audio storage, SonicStage sports a new Music Visualizer, a sleek
new player skin design, audio CD burning capability, and a parametric equalizer for fine­tuning audio playback.

SonyStyle Connect

Sony Electronics Inc.

SonyStyle Connect provides excellent dial-up, as well as DSL, Internet connection
services. To find out which plan is best for you, visit http://www.sonystyleconnect.com
and find out what is available in your area.

Sony on Yahoo!

Yahoo! Inc.

Personalize your own web portal with Sony on Yahoo! Get a free webmail account,
customized news and local weather reports, comics, and more.

VA I O A c t io n S e t u p

Sony Electronics Inc.

VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer's Shortcut keys.

VisualFlow™

Sony Electronics Inc.

VisualFlow software is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically
for Memory Stick® media. It displays any still picture, movie or sound file stored in a
Memory Stick media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner. VisualFlow software not only
plays a selected movie or sound file, but also enables playback of files by other
applications like PictureGear™, Memory Stick Slideshow and Windows® Explorer.

WordPerfect® (On selected models)

Corel Corp.

Create professional-looking documents, such as newsletters, reports and brochures with
this outstanding word processor, adding graphics, charts and tables with ease. RealTime
Preview lets you preview formatting before applying it to your documents and Reveal
Codes increases the control you have over document structure.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

28

Troubleshooting

This section describes how to solve common problems you may
encounter when using your computer. Many problems have simple
solutions, so try these suggestions before you call Sony Customer
Support.

Topics

Topic: My computer does not start.

❑ Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is turned

on. Check that the power light is lit on the front panel of the computer.

❑ Confirm that a disk is not in the floppy disk drive (unless you are using a

bootable floppy disk).

❑ Confirm that the power cord and all cables are connected firmly.

❑ If you plugged the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power

Supply (UPS), make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working.

❑ Check that the monitor is plugged into a power source and turned on. Check

that the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly. See the
manual that came with your display for details.

❑ Check that the computer is not in Stand by mode.

Topic: My files are corrupted or deleted. I want to recover applications that
came with my computer.

See “To Use the Application Recovery CD(s)” for more information.

Topic: My drivers are corrupted or deleted. I want to recover drivers that came
with my computer.

See “To Use the Driver Recovery CD” for more information.

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VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Topic: My computer or software application stopped responding.

You can try to locate and close the software application that has stopped
responding.

1 Press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys. The Windows Task Manager window

appears.

2 From the Applications tab, locate the application that has the status message,

“Not responding.”

3 Click to select the application and then click End Task. Windows attempts to

close the application.

If your computer does not respond or the application does not close, try the
following steps:

1 Save any open files, if possible.

2 Press the Alt+F4 keys. The Turn Off Computer window appears.

3 Click the Restart button.

If your computer still does not respond and you cannot restart, shut down your
computer by pressing and holding the power switch for more than six seconds.

If the software application continues to be unresponsive or causes your computer
to stop responding, contact the software publisher or designated technical support
provider.

Pressing and holding the power switch for more than six seconds may result
in the loss of data from files that are currently open.

Topic: Why does my computer take longer to start up after installing America
Online® (AOL) software?

Installing AOL on some computers may increase the time required to start up by
as much as 60 seconds. You can decrease your computer’s start up time by
disabling the AOL wide area network (WAN) driver. Follow these steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and select Control Panel.

2 Click Network and Internet Connections, and select Network Connections.

30

To p i c s

3 Right-click on the Local Area Connection with the device name, “WA N

Network Driver,” select Disable.

Open your AOL connection and verify that the application functions properly
with the WAN Network Driver disabled. If you need to restore this Network
setting, repeat these steps (1 - 3) and select Enable.

Topic: Why does the Windows® operating system stop responding during
shutdown?

The Windows operating system may not shut down properly for many reasons,
including incompatible or conflicting drivers, damaged files, or non-responsive
hardware. For troubleshooting information, you can search Windows Help.

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select VAIO Help and Support. The

VAIO Help and Support dialog box appears.

2 Select Fixing a Problem and then select Startup and Shut Down problems. A

list of specific problem topics appears on the right side of the dialog box.

3 Select Startup and Shutdown Troubleshooter. Follow the on-screen

instructions according to your specific situation.

Topic: How do I change the parallel port type to ECP, EPP, or bi-directional?

You can change the parallel port type using the System Setup utility (CMOS
Setup Utility). To access System Setup:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and select Turn Off Computer. Select

Restart.

2 When the Sony screen displays, press the F2 key on your keyboard.

3 Select the Advanced tab from the Setup Utility screen.

4 Select “I/O Device Configuration” and press Enter.

5 Use the arrow keys to highlight Parallel Port Mode and press Enter.

✍

You can toggle between the Normal (bi-directional), EPP, ECP, and ECP+EPP options
using the directional arrow keys.

6 Select the desired setting displays, and press Enter.

7 Press the F10 key to Save and Exit.

31

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Topic: My optical drive tray does not open.

Use the Eject button

1 Make sure the computer is turned on.

2 Press the Eject button on the drive.

Use the My Computer icon

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select My Computer.

2 Right-click the appropriate optical drive icon.

3 Select Eject from the shortcut menu.

Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CD media. Adhesive labels may come off

✍

while the CD media is in use in your optical drive(s) and may cause damage to the
unit.

Topic: I cannot play a DVD or CD.

❑ After inserting your optical disc, wait a few seconds for it to be detected

before trying to access it.

❑ Verify that the disc is in the tray with the label side facing up.

❑ Install your CD or DVD software according to the manufacturer’s

instructions.

❑ If your drive reads some DVDs or CDs, but not others, check the shiny side

of the disc for dirt or scratches. You may also need to clean the disc drive
lens with an appropriate cleaner.

To recover the CD or DVD software applications that are preinstalled on your

✍

computer, see “To Use the Application Recovery CD(s)” for more information.

Topic: I cannot play a DVD.

If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player application,
it may be that the region code of the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible
with the region code setting of your optical drive. A region code is listed on the
disc packaging. Region code indicators such as “1” or “ALL” are labeled on
some DVDs to indicate the type of player that can play the disc. Unless a “1” or
“ALL” appears on the DVD or on its packaging, you cannot play the disc on this
system.

32

To p i c s

If you hear audio but cannot see video, your computer’s video resolution may be
set too high. To improve video resolution, verify that your screen area is set to
1024 x 768, using 32-bit color (preset factory default). To check your video
resolution, see the Troubleshooting topic, “How do I change the video resolution
of my display?”

If your computer’s video memory (RAM) is 11 MB shared system memory, you may

✍

improve video resolution by changing your screen area to 800 x 600, using 16-bit
color. See your Specifications sheet for details about your computer’s video RAM.

If you see video but cannot hear audio, check all of the following:

❑ Verify that your DVD player’s mute feature is turned off.

❑ Check the master volume setting in the Audio Mixer.

❑ Check the volume settings on your computer speakers.

❑ Check the connections between your speakers and the computer.

❑ Verify that drivers are installed properly, by following these steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Control Panel.

2 Click Performance and Maintenance and then click Systems. The

System Properties dialog box appears.

3 Select the Hardware tab and then select the Device Manager button to

view installed drivers.

A dirty or damaged disc may also cause the computer to stop responding while it
tries to read the disc. If necessary, remove the disc and check that it is not dirty or
damaged.

To recover the CD or DVD software applications that are preinstalled on your

✍

computer, see “To Use the Application Recovery CD(s)” for more information.

Topic: When I click an application icon, a message such as “You must insert
the application CD into your drive” appears and the software does not start.

❑ Some software applications require specific files that are located on the

application’s CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program again.

❑ Check to make sure you inserted the CD-ROM with the label side facing up.

33

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Topic: Why doesn't my optical drive (DVD-RW or CD-RW) record at the
highest speed?

If you are having difficulty formatting DVD-RW or CD-RW media for recording
purposes, try changing the write speed to a lower setting.

See the online Help or documentation that came with your CD or DVD recording
software application for details on adjusting write speed settings.

Topic: How do I change the video resolution of my display?

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select Control Panel.

2 Select Appearances and Themes, then select “Change the screen resolution.”

3 Click the Settings tab.

4 Change the Screen resolution and Color quality to the desired levels.

5 Click Apply and then click OK.

Topic: Why is there no sound in any application?

❑ Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack.

❑ If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off.

❑ If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are

inserted properly and that they are charged.

❑ If your speakers use an external power source, verify that the power cord is

plugged into a grounded wall outlet or power strip.

❑ If your speakers have volume control, check the volume level.

❑ You cannot hear sound from your speakers if headphones are connected to

your computer.

❑ If the software application you are using has its own volume control, check

that the volume is turned up.

❑ Check the volume controls in the Windows® operating system using these

steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Control Panel.

2 Select Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click “Adjust the

system volume.”

34

To p i c s

3 From the Volume tab, adjust the Device volume by moving the slider bar

to the desired sound level. Verify that the Mute option is not selected.

You may need to reinstall the sound drivers. See “To Use the Driver Recovery CD” for

✍

more information.

Topic: My modem connection is slow.

Many factors influence modem connection speed:

❑ Telephone line noise.

❑ Incompatibility with other telephone equipment such as fax machines or

other modems.

❑ Internet Service Providers (ISP) connection capability may vary.

If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC-based modems,
fax machines, or your ISP, check the following:

❑ Contact your phone company and ask them to verify that your phone line is

free from line noise.

❑ If your problem is fax-related, check that there are no problems with the fax

machine you are calling and that it is compatible with fax modems.

❑ For optimum performance, verify that your ISP point of presence (POP)

phone number is compliant with V.90 standards.

❑ If you are having a problem connecting with your ISP, check that they are

not experiencing technical problems.

❑ Try connecting your modem through another phone line, if available.

Topic: My modem does not work.

Your modem may be experiencing equipment or software conflicts. If your
modem is not functioning properly, check the following:

❑ Check that the phone line is plugged into the Line jack.

❑ Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by plugging in

a standard telephone and listening for a dial tone.

❑ Check that the access phone number (POP) is correct.

❑ All software applications that are preinstalled by Sony are compatible with

your computer modem. If you have installed other software, contact the
software publisher for information on how to configure the software to
recognize the modem.

35

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

❑ If it appears that your modem is not functioning properly, check the device

status.

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel.

2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and then select Phone and Modem

Options.

3 From the Modems tab, click to select your modem.

4 Click Properties. The Modem Properties window appears.

5 Review the information in the Device status section. If your modem is

not working properly, click the troubleshoot button. The VAIO Help and
Support Center window appears.

6 Follow the on-screen instructions to resolve the problem.

You may need to reinstall the modem drivers. See “To Use the Driver Recovery CD” for

✍

more information.

Topic: How do I change my modem to rotary or Touch-Tone dialing?

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel.

2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Phone and Modem options.

3 From the Dialing Rules tab, click Edit. The Edit Location dialog box

appears.

4 Select the Tone or Pulse option. Click OK.

Topic: My microphone does not work.

Check that the microphone is plugged into the MICROPHONE jack.

Topic: My microphone is too sensitive to background noise.

If you find there is too much background noise when you record sound, you
should adjust the microphone gain by following these steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel.

2 Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click Sounds and Audio

Devices.

36

To p i c s

3 From the Audio tab, locate the Sound recording section and click the Volume

button. The Recording Control dialog box appears.

4 Select the Options menu and click Properties. The Properties dialog box

appears.

5 In the section, “Adjust volume for,” select the Recording option. Click OK.

6 From the Recording Control dialog box, decrease the microphone volume

level by moving the slider bar down.

7 Close the Recording Control dialog box and then close the Sounds and

Audio Devices Properties window.

Topic: My mouse does not work.

❑ Check that the mouse is plugged securely into the Mouse port.

❑ Save and close all open applications. Turn off your computer, wait

approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer.

❑ There may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism. To clean the mouse,

follow these steps:

1 Save and close all applications, and turn off your computer.

2 Turn the mouse upside down.

3 Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by turning

clockwise the ring that covers the mouse ball.

4 Turn the mouse upright, and drop the mouse ball into your hand.

5 Using a piece of tape, remove any dust or dirt on the mouse ball and

inside the mouse ball socket.

6 Return the mouse ball to the socket, and replace the mouse ball cover.

Secure the cover by turning the ring counter-clockwise.

You may need to reinstall the mouse drivers. See “To Use the Driver Recovery CD” for

✍

more information.

Topic: My keyboard does not work.

❑ Check that the keyboard is securely plugged into the Keyboard port.

❑ Save and close all open applications. Turn off your computer, wait

approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer.

37

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Topic: My mouse needs to be set up for left-hand use.

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel.

2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Mouse. The Mouse Properties

dialog box appears.

3 From the Buttons tab, select “Switch primary and secondary buttons” under

the Button Configuration options.

4 Click Apply, then click OK.

Topic: I cannot find the Windows® taskbar.

The Windows taskbar may be hidden or minimized.

❑ Use the mouse to locate a hidden taskbar by pointing to the left, right, top,

and bottom edges of the screen. The taskbar appears when the cursor is
placed over its location.

1 Right-click on the taskbar and select Properties from the shortcut menu.

2 Clear the check box for Autohide the taskbar, then click OK.

❑ Use the mouse to locate a minimized taskbar by pointing to the left, right,

top and bottom edges of the display screen. The taskbar has been located
when the cursor changes to a double arrow cursor. Left-click and drag away
from the edge of the display screen. The minimized taskbar resizes and
becomes visible.

Topic: Why is my system running slowly?

❑ The system responsiveness varies depending with the number of applications

that are open and running. Close any applications that you are not currently
using.

❑ Increasing the system memory may also help. For information on installing

memory, please see the online VAIO User Guide.

Topic: How do I install a printer?

❑ If your printer has a USB, IEEE1394, or infrared connection, contact the

printer manufacturer for information or updates that may be required for
proper installation.

38

To p i c s

❑ Check the printer manufacturer’s Web site for the latest drivers for your

operating system before proceeding with installation. Some printers do not
function properly without the updated drivers for specific operating systems.

❑ To install your printer, follow these steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel.

2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Add a Printer.

3 From the Add Printer Wizard, click Next.

4 Select Local Printer, then click Next.

Place a check mark in the box for “Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play

✍

printer”, if you are installing a recently manufactured printer with Plug and Play
capability.

5 Select the appropriate port, usually LPT1, and then click Next.

6 Select the appropriate printer manufacturer and model.

7 Follow the on-screen instructions to print a test page and complete printer

installation.

If the printer is not included in the list and the printer manufacturer included a disk

✍

with a Windows XP Printer driver, choose Have Disk, enter the appropriate path for the
disk or CD and click OK.

If the printer is not included on the list and no drivers are included with the printer,
choose an alternate printer driver that your printer may emulate. Refer to the manual
that came with your printer for specific emulation information.

Topic: My connected printer doesn't function after the computer resumes from
a power saving mode.

Clear the printer memory by turning the printer off for approximately 10 seconds,
and then turning it back on.

To contact Sony for technical support

For further technical assistance, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972) or
access the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

39

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Notes on Use

The information in this section provides basic procedures to follow when
handling your computer, components and accessories.

The power source

❑ Your computer operates on 100–120 V AC 50/60 Hz only.

❑ Plug all the power cords for your computer and its peripheral equipment into

the same AC supply line. AC derived from different supply lines may result
in voltage differences that can cause unstable operation or unwanted weak
currents at the time of connection.

❑ Do not share the AC outlet with any other power-consuming equipment,

such as copying machines or shredders.

❑ You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device prevents

damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges such as those that
may occur during an electrical storm.

❑ If you live in an area that experiences frequent power fluctuations, you may

want to purchase an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). This device
contains both a surge protector and a battery backup. The surge protector
prevents damage to your computer caused by power surges. The battery
backup safeguards your data during a brief period of power loss.

❑ The power control button on the front panel does not turn off the system AC

power. To remove power from the system, you must turn off the computer
and then unplug the AC power cord from the wall outlet or power strip.

❑ Do not place heavy objects on the power cord.

❑ Do not operate the system with the cover removed. Always reinstall the

cover before turning on the system.

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

❑ Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you will not be using the

computer for a long time.

40

Notes on Use

❑ Before touching anything inside the computer, turn the system off and let it

cool for ten minutes. This will ensure that the processor heat sink will not be
hot.

❑ Do not attempt to open the power supply. There are no user-serviceable parts

in the power supply. To avoid personal injury or damage to your equipment,
refer the repair or replacement of the power supply to qualified personnel
only.

Disposal of the lithium battery

Dispose of the lithium battery properly. In some areas, the disposal of lithium
batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. You can return your
unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory
Service Center. For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC
(1-888-476-6972).

Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium batteries. The lithium battery may
explode if mistreated. Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire.

Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery. Using a type of
battery other than a CR2032 may present a risk of fire or explosion.

Handling the computer system

❑ Do not place your Sony computer in a location subject to:

❑ Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts

❑ Direct sunlight

❑ Excessive dust

❑ Mechanical vibration or shock

❑ Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded

❑ Ambient temperature of more than 95ºF (35ºC) or less than 50ºF (10ºC)

❑ High humidity, moisture, or rain

❑ Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The computer’s

electromagnetic field may cause a malfunction.

❑ Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat build-up. Do not

place your computer on loose surfaces (such as rugs or blankets) or near
materials (such as curtains or draperies) that may block its ventilation slots.
Leave a space of at least 8 inches from the back panel of your computer.

41

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

❑ Clean the cabinet with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moistened with

a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring
powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine, as it may damage the finish of
your Sony computer.

❑ Should any solid object or liquid fall into the cabinet, keyboard, or mouse,

shut down your computer and then unplug it. You may want to have the
computer checked by qualified personnel before operating it any further.

❑ The computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause interference

to radio or TV reception. Should this occur, relocate the computer a suitable
distance away from the set.

❑ Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables; otherwise,

problems may result.

❑ Do not use cut or damaged connection cables.

❑ Always switch the power off before connecting your computer to peripheral

equipment; otherwise, damage may occur to the integrated circuits in your
computer.

❑ Your computer, keyboard, and mouse consist of high-precision electronic

parts. Do not drop them or bump them against other objects.

❑ Your Sony computer will 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).

❑ If the telephone company makes a service call to your home or office and

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

Moisture condensation

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

42

Notes on Use

Upgrading the computer system

❑ The procedures described in the online manual, Upgrading and Maintaining

Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer, 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.

❑ 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 in the online manual, Upgrading
and Maintaining Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer. Failure to do so may
result in personal injury or equipment damage.

❑ Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage disk drives, add-on cards, and

other components. Follow the procedures described in the online manual,
Upgrading and Maintaining Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer, 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 (for
example, cellophane wrappers). Ground yourself by maintaining continuous
contact with an unpainted metal portion of the chassis while performing the
procedure.

❑ When removing a slot cover, be careful not to damage components on the

system board or add-on cards. You may need to temporarily remove add-on
cards that are next to the slot cover you want to remove.

Handling a CRT display

❑ Do not change the CRT display refresh rate to 85 Hz, as DVD playback and

the DVgate software may not function correctly. Sony recommends that you
keep your CRT display at the preset, optimal refresh rate (75 Hz).

❑ Do not place the display near a strong magnetic force.

❑ Do not block the ventilation slots on the display.

❑ Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual

image on the screen. This is not a malfunction. When the computer returns to
normal temperature, the screen returns to normal.

❑ A residual image may appear on the screen if the same image is displayed

for a lengthy period of time. The image disappears after a period of time.
You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

❑ The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does not

indicate a malfunction.

43

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Using the hard disk drive

❑ Do not place the computer in a location that is subject to vibration or shock.

❑ Do not move the computer during operation.

❑ Do not subject the computer to sudden changes in temperature.

❑ Do not turn off the power while the computer is accessing the hard disk

drive.

Handling floppy disks

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

❑ Keep floppy disks away from magnets.

❑ Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other heat sources.

Handling CD or DVD media

❑ Do not touch the surface of the disc.

❑ Do not drop or bend the disc.

❑ Do not use adhesive labels to identify the disc. The label may come off while

the disc is in use in the optical drive and damage the drive.

Cleaning CD or DVD media

❑ Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors. Proper

care of the disc is essential to maintain its reliability. Do not use solvents
such as benzine, thinner, commercially available cleaners or anti-static 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 out.

❑ 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.

44

For Answers to Your Software Questions

For Answers to Your Software Questions

This section provides support information for your computer’s preinstalled
software applications. Check this software support listing to locate information
from the Internet, by e-mail, or by telephone.

✍

Your computer may not be supplied with all of the software applications listed,
depending on the system configuration you purchased.

Adobe® Acrobat Reader™, Adobe® Photoshop® Elements,
Adobe® Premiere® LE (on selected models)
(Adobe Systems Inc.)

Web site http://www.adobe.com

phone [phone] (fee-based support)

fax [phone]

e-mail [e-mail]

hours M - F, 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM PST

ArcSoft PhotoPrinter® 2000 Pro (ArcSoft Inc.)

Web site http://www.arcsoft.com

phone [phone]

fax [phone]

e-mail [e-mail]

hours M - F, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM PST

America Online® (America Online Inc.)

Web site http://www.aol.com

phone [phone]

hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

EarthLink™ Network Total Access (EarthLink Network Inc.)

Web site http://help.earthlink.net/techsupport

phone [phone]

e-mail [e-mail]

hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

45

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Microsoft® Windows XP™ operating system, Internet Explorer,
Outlook® Express, Word (on selected models), Office XP Professional (on
selected models) Office XP Small Business Edition (on selected models)
(Microsoft Corporation)

Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport

phone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972)

hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

* Support from 888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

*

PC-Cillin® 2000 (Trend Micro, Inc.)

Web site http://www.antivirus.com/pc-cillin

phone [phone]

e-mail [e-mail]

hours M - F, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM PST

Quicken® 2002 (Intuit Inc.)

Web site http://www.intuit.com/support

phone [phone]

hours M- F, 5:00 AM - 5:00 PM PST

* Support from 900-555-4932 is fee-based. Support from 800-644-3193 is automated and free of

charge.

*

RealJukebox®, RealPlayer® (Real Networks, Inc.)

Web site http://www.real.com

e-mail http://service.real.com/help/call.html (online e-mail form)

Sony Applications (Sony Electronics Inc.)

Web site http://www.sony.com/pcsupport

phone 888-4-SONY-PC (888-476-6972)

hours 7 days a week, 24 hours a day

* Support from 1-888-4-SONY-PC is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

*

Sony Style Connect™ (E-Solutions)

Web site http://www.sonystyleconnect.com

phone [phone]

46

For Answers to Your Software Questions

WordPerfect® (on selected models)
(Corel Corp.)

Web site http://www.corel.com/support/product_specific/wp9.htm

phone [phone]

hours M- F, 8:30 AM - 7:30 PM ET

Sony Service Center

For the Sony Service Center nearest you, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC
(1-888-476-6972), or visit the Sony Computing Support Web site at
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

This service is free of charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

47

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Resources

Sony provides several support options for your Sony computer. When you have
questions about your computer and the preinstalled software, check these sources
for answers, in the following sequence:

VAIO® QuickStart

VAIO Computer
User Guide

Online (Electronic)
Documentation

Software application
manuals and online
help files

Knowledge Database

Sony Fax-on-Demand

Software Updates

VAIO Computer
System Reference
Manual

The QuickStart contains information on how to set up your
computer quickly and easily.

The User Guide contains information on how to get the most
from your computer, find help, and solve common problems.

(Note: The User Guide is not available in hard copy for all
models.)

The User Guide is available electronically on your hard drive.
Two additional guides, Upgrading and Maintaining your VAIO
Computer and the Troubleshooting Help are also available
online.
To access online documentation:

1. Click Start and point to VAIO Help and Support Center.

2. Click on the VAIO User Guide.
Most manuals for preinstalled software are located on your

hard disk drive as online help files. You can access online help
files from the Help menu within the specific application. A
printed manual may be available for some applications.

This database provides instant access to information on
commonly encountered problems. Enter a description of your
problem and the Knowledge Database searches for the
corresponding solutions online. You can access the Sony
Knowledge Database from the Sony Computing Support Web
site at: http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

This service provides you with answers to commonly asked
questions. You can use this automated service to request a list
of available topics. Select the topics that you want to view. To
contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call 1-888-4-SONY­PC (1-888-476-6972). (Requires a fax machine or fax
software.)

You can download the latest software updates and software
patches for your Sony computer by selecting Software Updates
on the Sony Computing Support Web site at:
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

This advanced reference manual supplies detailed technical
information about your computer's hardware. This document
is available on the Sony Computing Support Web site at:
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

48

Index

A

AC

power 40
Adobe Acrobat Reader 23
Adobe Photoshop Elements 23
Adobe Premiere LE 23
air circulation 41
America Online 23

C

cables

connecting 41
caution

lithium battery 41
CD

cleaning media 44

handling media 44

problems with 32
CD-RW recording problems 33
computer

air circulation 41

cable connections 41

cleaning 41

handling 40

party lines 41

setting up 11
start up problems 29
system locked up 30
upgrading 43

using the hard disk drive 44
condensation 42
Connecting

CRT display 11

keyboard/mouse 13

modem cable/power cords 14

speakers 12
CRT display 43

D

dial-up connection

setting up 17
DigitalPrint 24
Display 10
disposal of lithium battery 41
DVD 44

cleaning media 44

playback problems 32

problems with 32
DVD-RW

recording problems 33
DVgate 24

49

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

E

EarthLink Network Total Access
24
electrostatic discharge 43
Ergonomic considerations 10

F

Floppy disk

handling media 44

H

handling media 44
hard disk drive

using 44

hibernate 20

I

i.LINK

interface 6

IEEE1394 6

K

keyboard 6

troubleshooting 37

L

Lighting

workspace planning 10

lithium battery

caution 41
disposal of 41

handling of 41
replacing 41

M

Media Bar DVD Player 24
Microphone

sensitivity 36

troubleshooting 36
Microsoft Internet Explorer 24
Microsoft Office XP
Professional 24
Microsoft Office XP Small
Business Edition 25
Microsoft Outlook Express 25
Microsoft Word 25
Modem

troubleshooting 34, 35
Moisture condensation 42
Monitor

CRT 43
Mouse

troubleshooting 36
MovieShaker 25

O

Operating system

troubleshooting 30
Optical drive

DVD playback problems 32

problems with media 32

recording problems 33

50

Index

tray eject 31

P

party lines 41
PC-Cillin 2000 25
PhotoPrinter 2000 Pro 25
PictureGear 26
power

control 40

power cords

handling 40
Preinstalled software applications
23
Printer

installation 38

troubleshooting 39

Q

Quicken 2002 26

R

RealJukebox 26
RealPlayer 26
Recovery CDs 9
Registering your computer 16
replacement of lithium battery 41

S

setting up

computer 11

dial-up connection 17

shut down

computer 21
Smart Capture 26
Software

audio problems 34

recovery 29

support contact 45

troubleshooting 30, 33
Software description

Adobe Acrobat Reader 23

Adobe Photoshop Elements

23
Adobe Premiere LE 23
America Online 23
DigitalPrint 24
DVgate 24
EarthLink Network Total

Access 24
Media Bar DVD Player 24
Microsoft Internet Explorer

24
Microsoft Office XP

Professional 24
Microsoft Office XP Small

Business Edition 25
Microsoft Outlook Express
Microsoft Word 25
MovieShaker 25
PC-Cillin 2000 25
PhotoPrinter 2000 Pro 25
PictureGear 26

25

51

VAIO Digital Studio Computer QuickStart

Quicken 2002 26
RealJukebox 26
RealPlayer 26
Smart Capture 26
SonicStage 26
Sony on Yahoo! 27
SonyStyle Connect 27
VAIO Action Setup 27
VisualFlow 27

WordPerfect 27
SonicStage 26
Sony on Yahoo! 27
SonyStyle Connect 27
Stand by mode 19
surge protection 40
System Hibernate mode 20
System response problems 38
system upgrading 43

T

Troubleshooting

Change parallel port type 31

computer stopped

responding 30
DVD playback 32
DVD/CD problems 32
DVD-RW/CD-RW

recording 33
Keyboard problems 37
Microphone problems 36
Modem 34, 35
Mouse problems 36

Operating system locks up

30

Optical drive tray 31
Printer installation 38
Printer stops responding 39
recover applications 29
Recover drivers 29
Software problems 33, 34
starting the computer 29
System response 38

turning off

computer 21

turning on

computer 16

U

Uninterruptible Power Supply
40
upgrading

procedures 43
UPS 40
Utilities

driver recovery 29

V

VAIO AV Applications 5
VAIO Smart keyboard 6
ventilation 10
Viewing angle

display 10
VisualFlow 27

W

WordPerfect 27
workspace planning 10

52

4-658-826-11 © 2001 Sony Electronics Inc. Printed in USA