Thank you for purchasing your Sony VAIO® computer! Your new computer is a superb blend of high technology and
easy-to-use functionality. The information provided here is designed to help you to become familiar with the hardware and
software applications included with your system.
View the Electronic Flyer, which provides updates and supplemental information about your computer.
View the VAIO® Computer Specifications, which lists your computer's hardware specifications and preinstalled
software information.
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Getting Started
Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO® computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia computer combines
state-of-the-art computer functionality with the latest audio, video and information technology features.
Unpacking your Computer
Planning An Ergonomic Work Space
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Unpacking your Computer
Your computer may not be supplied with all of the accessories shown, depending on the system configuration you
purchased. For details on the accessories supplied with your computer, see the online Specificationssheet.
Computer and supplied accessories
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder accessories
Manuals
VAIO® Computer Quick Start—Provides basic information on setting up and registering your computer. The Quick
Start also provides resources for technical support, safety guidelines and owner's information.
Microsoft® Windows® XP guide—Explains how to use the basic features of the latest Windows operating system.
Online Documentation
VAIO® Computer User Guide — Contains features and specifications of your computer. It also includes information
on the applications included with your system, how to contact software vendors, and solve common problems.
To access the online User Guide:
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Help and Support.
2.
From the VAIO Help and Support Center menu, click VAIO User Guide.
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder — Included within the online VAIO User Guide, this section contains
information on setting up and using the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder equipment and software applications.
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The Internet Electronic Program Guide (iEPG) service information describes new Sony technology that is used with
the Internet, to locate, record and set up timed recordings of your favorite TV programs.
Specifications — This online specification sheet describes the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO
computer.
To access this online information:
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Help And Support.
2.
From the VAIO Help And Support Center menu, click VAIO User Guide.
3.
Locate the link in the text, "View the VAIO® Computer Specifications..."
Hard Disk Drive Recovery
Your computer is equipped with a utility program that enables you to recover your computer's operating system and
preinstalled software.
For more information about hard disk drive recovery:
Your VAIO® computer is not supplied with System or Application Recovery CDs. Use the VAIO Recovery utility to recover
your computer's operating system and preinstalled software.
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, then click Help and Support.
2.
From the VAIO Help And Support Center, click VAIO Recovery Options.
Other
Software Library containing the Microsoft software license agreement and Sony end-user license agreement.
Page 4
Planning An Ergonomic Work Space
Before you set up your new computer, find the best location for your new computer and plan your work space. There are
several ergonomic factors to consider when you arrange your work space:
Stable work surface — Use a stable work surface large enough to support the computer and other peripheral
equipment.
Ventilation — 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.
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Locating Controls And Ports
This section is intended to familiarize you with the controls, ports and jacks on your computer.Your computer may not be
equipped with all of these hardware features and the location of the controls, ports, and jacks may vary from the
illustrations shown in this section. To view the specific connection capabilities for your system, see the online specifications
sheet.
About the Front Panel
About the Back Panel
About the Remote Control
About the Keyboard
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About the Front Panel
The front panel of your VAIO Computer enables access to the optical and floppy disk drives. On certain models, the front
panel also provides access to Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder jacks and ports, a Memory Stick media slot and the
Universal Serial Bus (USB), and i.LINK® ports that enable you to connect compatible peripheral devices.
Front panel
1Optical drive 1
See the online specifications sheet for optical drive information.
2Optical drive 2
See the online specifications sheet for optical drive information.
3Floppy disk drive
Reads and writes data from and to a 3.5-inch floppy disk.
4Floppy disk drive access indicator
Light is green while reading and writing data from and to a floppy disk.
5Power indicator
Light is blue while the power is on.
6 Power switch
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Turns the computer on and off.
7Stand by indicator
Light is red when the computer is placed in Stand by mode.
8Optical drive access indicator
Light is amber while reading and writing data from and to the optical drives.
9Hard disk drive access indicator
Light is amber while reading and writing data from and to the hard disk.
10S-video In jack
Connection for an S-video cable (optional).
Composite video In jack
Connection for a video cable (optional).
Composite audio L In jack
Connection for an audio cable (optional).
Composite audio R In jack
Connection for an audio cable (optional).
11Optical drive 1 eject button
Ejects a disc from Optical drive 1.
12Optical drive 2 eject button
Ejects a disc from Optical drive 2.
13Memory Stick media slot and access indicator
Reads and writes data from and to a Memory Stick® media. The access indicator light is amber when reading or writing
data.
14Floppy disk eject button
Ejects a floppy disk from the floppy disk drive.
15 Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) ports (4)
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Connections for compatible high/full/low-speed USB devices.
16i.LINK (4-pin) S400 port (IEEE 1394)
Connection for a compatible digital device.
i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 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 devices to your system, such as an optical or hard disk drive,
confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.
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About the Back Panel
The back panel of your computer contains the ports for supplied and optional accessories. The icons on the back panel
locate and identify the ports on your computer.
Back panel
1AC Input port
Connection for the supplied power cord.
2Mouse port
Connection for a PS/2® mouse.
3Keyboard port
Connection for a PS/2 keyboard.
4Printer port
Connection for a parallel device, such as a printer or scanner.
5Monitor port1
Connection for a standard display.
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6 i.LINK 6-pin S400 port (IEEE 1394)
Connection and power for a compatible digital device, such as a Sony Digital Handycam® camcorder.
7Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0) ports (4)
Connections for compatible high/full/low-speed USB devices.
8Microphone jack
Connection for a microphone (optional).
Headphones jack
Connection for the supplied speakers or optional headphones.
Line In jack
Connection for an audio device.
9Monitor port2
Connection for a standard display.
10Composite audio R Out jack
Connection for an audio or stereo dubbing cable (optional).
Composite audio L In jack
Connection for an audio or stereo dubbing cable (optional).
Composite video In jack
Connection for a digital video or stereo A/V dubbing cable (optional).
S-video In jack
Connection for an S-video cable (optional).
11Telephone jack
Connection for a telephone cable (optional) to the computer.
12Speaker DC Out jack
Connection for the speaker power cable.
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13 S/P DIF optical out port
Connection for a digital audio or optical device.
14Ethernet port
Connection for a 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX/1000BASE-TX Ethernet.
(The port marked with (Network) is for LAN connections only.)
15TV Out (S-Video/video) jack3
Connection for an S-video cable (optional).
16Monitor (DVI) port
Connection for a DVI monitor.
17VHF/UHF port
Connection for a coaxial cable (supplied).
18Modem line jack
Connection for the modem (supplied) cable to the wall jack.
1
T his monitor port may have a cover, indic ating that it is not available for use. On some models, the monitor port loc ation may be in a different loc ation.
2
O n s ome loc ations, the monitor port location may be in a different loc ation.
3
T his feature is available on s elected models. See the s pecifications s heet for information on your computer's hardware configuration
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About the Remote Control
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder features are controlled with the remote control. The remote control can start and
stop video recording and playback, select channels, and set viewing preferences. This section describes the basic functions
of your remote control.
Remote control
1MUTE button
Press to turn off the sound. Press again to restore the sound.
2Channel number buttons (1-9)
Press to select specific channels.
(Press the ENT button to activate channel selection.)
JUMP button
Press to go to the previous channel. Press again to return to the current channel.
ENT button
Press to activate channel selection. See Channel number buttons.
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3 SIZE button
Press to view the current software in full-screen size. Press again to return the view to its original size.
4AUDIO button
Press to view available sound mode options on the monitor/display.
5DVD angle button
Press to change the camera angle during DVD playback. See the DVD player software for details. This function is not
available for other software.
DVD Subtitle button
Press to turn on/off subtitles or to change the subtitle language during DVD playback. See the DVD player software for
details. This function is not available for other software.
DISPLAY button
During DVD playback in full screen mode, press to show the settings window.
When using Giga Pocket software, press to display the TV/Recording deck and playback deck screens. Press again to hide
these views.
TV/VIDEO button
Press to change the on-screen image from the TV/Recording deck to external video equipment, such as your VCR.
(Note: You cannot change the input source while recording.)
6REW and FF buttons
Press to rewind or fast-forward.
PREV and NEXT buttons
Press to move back to the previous screen or forward to the next screen.
7TITLE button
The function of this button may vary between DVDs. See the DVD player software instructions for details.
8CANCEL button
When using Giga Pocket software, press to close an error message dialog box. The window returns to its original size when
displayed in full-screen mode.
(Note: This function is not available for other software.)
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9 STANDBY button
Press to place the system into Stand by mode.
(Note: You cannot place the computer into Stand by mode when certain Giga Pocket functions are running.)
10MODE switch
Set the switch from 1 to 3, to change the remote control's control between computers. The target computer's remote
control software determines the assigned number.
(Note: The default setting is 1, if you are using a single computer.)
11MENU button
Press to view a shortcut menu of available software applications. Press again to hide this menu.
(Note: For Giga Pocket software, the Select Video Capsules window displays. Press the button again to hide this window.)
START button
Press to start the selected software.
CLOSE button
Press to close the current software.
FUNCTION button
When Giga Pocket software is selected with the Menu button, press to switch from the TV/recording deck to the playback
deck.
When using SonicStage software, plress to change from the music drive (hard disk drive) to the CD.
12CHANNEL button
Press to change channels automatically (no number input required).
(Note: This function is available for Giga Pocket software only.)
13VOLUME button
Press to raise or lower the volume.
14REC button
Press to begin recording.
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REC MODE button
Press to select the recording mode.
REC STOP button
Press to stop recording.
(Note: The REC, REC MODE, and REC STOP functions are available for Giga Pocket software only.)
15PLAY STOP button
Press to stop playback.
PLAY button
Press to begin playback.
PAUSE button
Press to pause playback.
16MENU button
Press to display the root menu during DVD playback. Press again to minimize the window. See the DVD player software for
details.
When using Giga Pocket software, press to display Video Capsule listings.
When using SonicStage software, press to display Playlists.
When using VAIO Media software, press to display the main menu.
17Direction and ENTER buttons
Press a direction arrow to navigate. Press ENTER to select.
18RETURN button
Press to return to the previous screen.
(Note: This function is not available for Giga Pocket software.)
For more details about the function buttons on your remote control, see the Giga Pocket Help.
To set up the remote control
Insert two AA batteries (supplied) into the remote control as shown.
Inserting batteries into the remote control
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Under normal use, the AA batteries may last up to six months. If your remote control does not operate properly, the
batteries may need to be replaced.
If your remote control is not being used for extended periods of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from
battery leakage.
Page 17
About the Keyboard
Your VAIO® keyboard uses a standard key arrangement with additional keys that perform specific functions.
VAIO Keyboard
KEY DESCRIPTION
Function The 12 function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform certain tasks. The task
associated with each function key may vary from one application to the next.
Volume ControlPress a button to increase (+) or decrease (-) the volume of the speakers.
Mute Press the button to turn off the volume of the speaker. Press the Mute button again to restore
sound.
StandbyPress the button to place the computer in Standby mode. Press the Power button or any key
briefly, to resume normal operation.
Numeric keypadUse the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform basic math calculations. Press the
Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad. (The Num Lock indicator lights.) Press the Num Lock key again to deactivate
the numeric keypad.
Directional Arrows The Up, Down, Left, and Right arrow keys move the pointer on the screen.
Applications
The Applications key displays a shortcut menu in certain software applications. Pressing this key
is equivalent to clicking the right mouse button.
Windows
The key with the Microsoft® Windows® logo, displays the Start menu. Pressing this key is
equivalent to clicking Start on the taskbar.
INDICATORS FUNCTION
Num Lock The Num Lock indicator lights when the numeric keypad is activated. When the indicator is off, the directional
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arrow and correction keys on the numeric keypad area are active.
Caps LockThe Caps Lock indicator lights up to advise you that the keyboard is set to type letters in uppercase. When
the indicator is off, the letters appear in lower case as you type.
Scroll LockThe Scroll Lock indicator lights up to advise you that your screen's scrolling pattern has changed. When the
indicator is off, the screen scrolls normally. This function is not available with all software applications.
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Setting Up Your Computer
Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features described in the section. The location of the controls,
ports, and jacks may vary from the illustrations shown. See the online specifications sheet for your system's specific
hardware configuration.
Connecting a Display (Monitor)
Connecting the Speakers
Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse
Connecting the Telephone and Modem cables
Connecting the Power Cords
Turning On Your Computer
Registering your Computer
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Connecting a Display (Monitor)
1.
Plug the display's cable into the monitor port.
2.
If necessary, plug the display's cable into the rear of the display.
To connect a display
To connect a DVI display
Install your equipment so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency.
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Connecting the Speakers
1.
Plug the cable attached to the back of the left speaker into the L Out jack on the back of the right speaker.
2.
Plug the cable attached to the back of the right speaker into the Headphones jack, located on the back panel of
your computer.
3.
Plug the jack end (yellow) of the speaker power cable into the DC In jack (yellow) on the back of the right
speaker.
4.
Plug the jack end (black) of the speaker power cable into the DC Out jack located on the back panel of your
computer.
To connect the speakers
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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 on the back of the computer.
To connect the keyboard and mouse
To use an optical mouse
An optical mouse requires an ideal surface texture in order to provide precision pointing and tracking.
Use surfaces such as plain paper, card stock, or fabric that have minimal repetitive patterning.
Avoid surfaces such as mirrors, smooth glass, or magazines that have half- tone printing.
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Connecting the Telephone and Modem cables
1.
Unplug your telephone from the wall jack.
2.
Plug the modem cable (supplied) into the Modem line jack, located on the back panel of your computer
3.
Plug the other end of the cable into the wall jack.
To connect the telephone and modem cables
Your computer has a protective sticker covering the Ethernet port located on the rear panel.
Connect 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX or 1000BASE-TX cables to the Ethernet port. Using other cables or a telephone
cable may result in an electric current overload that can cause a malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the
Ethernet port. For help on connecting to a network, see your network administrator.
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Connecting the Power Cords
1.
Plug the power cord into the back of the computer.
2.
Plug both the display and power cords into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip.
To connect the power cords
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Turning On Your Computer
When you start your system for the first time, your computer may detect new equipment and display a dialog box that
prompts you to restart your computer. Respond to this prompt immediately.
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.
To turn on your computer
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Registering 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 Limited 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.
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Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a suite of interactive Sony audio and video components that are designed to
create, capture, and play back video files derived from television and your personal videos.1
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder hardware and software applications are not available on all VAIO® computers.
See your computer's online specification sheet for details on your system configuration.
About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
Setting Up Giga Pocket Software
Giga Pocket
Timer Recording Wizard
Timer Recording Manager
Giga Pocket Explorer
CLIÉ Converter
Glossary
Internet Electronic Program Guide Service
1
U nauthorized duplication of audio or video files is a violation of applicable laws.
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About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder is a unique set of tools that enhance your VAIO® computer's capabilities. Giga Pocket
gives you a wide range of video viewing, recording, and playback capabilities, such as:
Watching and recording television programs from your computer.
Viewing and recording TV programming simultaneously.
Setting and managing daily/weekly timer recording schedules.
Managing Video Capsules (recorded video contents) on your computer.
Recording personal video content from a videotape.
Playing your Video Capsules on other computers.
Operating Giga Pocket functions with a remote control device.
Sharing Giga Pocket features and functions with other computers on a network.
Transforming Video Capsules into gMovie format for viewing on your CLIÉ handheld.
For an explanation of Giga Pocket terms, see the Glossary.
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Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder includes:
Giga Pocket—This application enables you to watch TV programs on your computer's display and record them onto
the hard disk drive as Video Capsules for later playback.
Timer Recording Manager—The Timer Recording Manager keeps track of all TV program recordings you have
scheduled. This program also enables you to modify timer recordings.
Timer Recording Wizard—The Wizard interface guides you through setting up a timer recording schedule. You can
program one-time recordings and set up daily or weekly recurring recording schedules.
Giga Pocket Explorer—The Giga Pocket Explorer program functions as your video file management system, and
stores recorded Video Capsules as well as modified Playlists. Giga Pocket Explorer contains export/import functions
for file format conversions.
Giga Pocket Server—The Giga Pocket Server enables multiple computers on a network to use certain Giga Pocket
software functions.
CLIÉ Converter—The CLIÉ Converter is a plug-in application that enables the conversion of Video Capsules into
gMovie format. You can change the format your Giga Pocket contents and transfer them onto a Memory Stick
media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ Handheld.
Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:
®
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.
2.
Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder maintains information about the software and Video Capsules on your
computer's drive D, in a folder named D:\Giga Pocket V5. This folder and its contents are not designed for your direct
maintenance. Please do not move, modify or delete the Giga Pocket Folder or any of its contents. Any alteration to this
folder or its contents may cause your Giga Pocket software and Video Capsules to stop working properly.
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Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder
This section illustrates how to set up the cables and connections for your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder system.
The hardware configuration of your computer may vary from the illustrations shown. To view the specific hardware
configuration for your computer, see the online specifications sheet.
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To set up TV connections
The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type
of cable connection available in your home.
Your VAIO® Computer is supplied with certain audio and video cables. Depending on your in-home cable access, you
may require extra cables, adapters or connection equipment not supplied with your computer.
Connecting to standard cable access (CATV)
Option 1
1.
Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (supplied) to your cable service access.
2.
Connect the other end of the TV coaxial cable to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.
To connect in CATV mode (Option 1)
Option 2
1.
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the
single-connection end of a splitter adapter.
2.
Connect the TV coaxial cable (supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the other
end to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.
3.
Connect a third TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the
other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display.
To connect in CATV mode (Option 2)
Connecting to a standard antenna (air)
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You can connect your Giga Pocket system to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or 2 from the previous
section, Connecting to standard cable access (CATV). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your
connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (optional) to connect your computer and the indoor/outdoor
antenna system.
If you are connecting to an indoor/outdoor antenna, you may need to reorient the antenna for best reception.
Option 1
1.
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your antenna outlet. Connect the other end to a VHF/UHF RF
combiner/transformer (optional).
2.
Connect the TV coaxial cable (supplied) from the combiner/transformer to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of
your computer.
Option 2
1.
Connect both ends of the antenna's twin lead cable to the screw-type grips on the combiner/transformer.
2.
Connect the TV coaxial cable (supplied) from the combiner/transformer to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of
your computer.
To connect in standard antenna mode (air)
Your VAIO® Computer is supplied with certain audio and video cables. Depending on your in-home cable access, you
may require extra cables, adapters or connection equipment not supplied with your computer.
Connecting with a cable or satellite set-top box (STB)
You can connect your Giga Pocket system to cable service access that uses a set-top box (cable or satellite).
Option 1
1.
Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (optional) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the In
jack on the back panel of your set-top box (STB).
2.
Connect a second TV coaxial cable (optional) to the Out jack on your STB. Connect the other end to the
single-connection end of a splitter adapter (optional).
3.
Connect a third TV coaxial cable (supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the
other end to the VHF/UHF port on the back panel of your computer.
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4.
Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (optional) to the double-connection end of the splitter adapter. Connect the
other end to the VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display.
To connect in STB mode (Option 1)
Option 2
1.
Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable (supplied) to your cable service access. Connect the other end to the In
jack on the back panel of your set-top box (STB).
2.
Connect a second TV coaxial cable (optional) to the Out jack on your STB unit. Connect the other end to the
VHF/UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display.
3.
Connect one end of the stereo A/V dubbing cables with triple RCA jacks (optional) to the Video Out and
Audio-OUT (L/R) jacks on the back panel of your STB unit, matching the plug and jack colors.
4.
Connect the other RCA jacks of the stereo dubbing cable into the Audio-R (IN), Audio-L (IN), and Composite video
(IN) jacks on the back panel of your computer, matching the plug and jack colors.
To connect in STB mode (Option 2)
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To set up additional equipment
This section illustrates how to set up additional equipment with the Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder System.
Connecting a VCR or camcorder with an audio cable
Your VAIO® computer has both audio and video connection capability. You can locate the connections behind the bottom
panel on the front of the system unit. You can connect a VCR or camcorder, using the audio jacks and video ports.
1.
Connect a dual audio cable (optional) to the L and R audio jacks, located on the either the front or rear panels of
your computer.
2.
Connect the other ends of the dual audio cable to your VCR or camcorder.
Connecting equipment with an S-video or video cable
Your VCR or camcorder may have either standard video or S-video connection capability.
Option 1
1.
Connect an S-video cable (optional) directly into the S-video jack on either the front or back panel of your
computer.
2.
Connect the other end of the S-video cable into the appropriate port on your compatible VCR or camcorder.
3.
Connect an audio cable with double RCA plugs at each end (optional) into the composite audio L and R jacks.
Option 2
1.
Connect a stereo A/V dubbing cable with triple RCA plugs at each end (optional) directly into the composite video
port, composite audio L and R jacks, located on either the front or back panel of your computer.
2.
Connect the other ends of the stereo A/V dubbing cable into the appropriate jacks on your compatible VCR or
camcorder.
To connect a VCR or camcorder (Option 1)
Connecting the infrared receiver
1.
Connect the infrared receiver cable to a USB port located on either the front or back panel of your computer.
Place the infrared receiver unit in a position that enables it to communicate with your remote control.
The infrared receiver must be visible in a line-of-sight with your remote control in order to function properly.
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Connecting the infrared receiver (back panel)
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Setting Up Giga Pocket Software
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software features and functions are detailed in this section, enabling you to begin
viewing or recording TV programs.
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To set up TV viewing
When you start Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for the first time, you are automatically prompted to set the video
input source for watching TV or cable TV (CATV) programs on your computer.
Starting Giga Pocket for TV Setup (For first time setup)
1.
Verify that the computer time and date settings as displayed in the taskbar are correct.
To adjust these settings:
1.
Right-click with your mouse. A shortcut menu appears.
2.
Select Adjust Date/Time, and a dialog box appears.
3.
Correct the date and time, if necessary.
2.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, point to All Software, and then
click TV Setup.
The TV SetupWizard appears.
TV Setup Wizard
3.
Depending on your cable service access, select Standard CATV, Standard antenna, or set-top box (STB).
1.
Standard CATV (C1-C125) without STB — For this connection, you must use a coaxial cable directly
(without an STB) to your computer. The default setting for this connection option is STD. Depending on
your local connection requirements, HRC and IRC are also available.
2.
Standard antenna (2-69) — Select this option if you connect an aerial antenna's coaxial cable directly to
your computer for watching TV programs.
3.
STB (Set top box) — Select this option if the broadcast signal is received from a set top box (STB) such
as a digital cable box or a satellite cable box. Make sure that the Input channel on your STB (Ch. 3, Ch.
4, etc.) matches the Input channel listed in the Giga Pocket TV Setup dialog box.
If you are not sure of the type of cable connection to use (Standard, HRC, or IRC), contact your cable provider for
information.
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4.
Click Next. The wizard displays a dialog box that enables you to customize the channel listings.
5.
Click Auto Scan.
You can view the channel reception in the pop-up TV Setup - Monitor window.
TV Setup Wizard - Customize the channel listing
If your computer is connected to the Internet, you can click Go to Web Site... and download channel listings from
the iEPG listing site.
6.
Connect to the Internet.
7.
Click Go to Web Site... and download channel listings by clicking Download all Channel Settings.
8.
Click Next. For the first time setup, you are prompted to set your Giga Pocket Server password.
TV Setup Wizard - Giga Pocket Server password
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9.
Type in a password and click Finish.
Setting up your display (monitor)
When using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, set your display settings as follows:
Colors—Use the default factory settings (32-bit).
Screen area—Set your video resolution to 1024 x 768 pixels.
If you change the default settings, you may experience poor image quality on your display.
Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time. Even if a different
user logs on using the fast switch feature, Giga Pocket is not available to any other user account. For more information,
see the Giga Pocket Help.
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Giga Pocket
Giga Pocket enables you to watch a TV program on your computer display while recording it onto your hard disk drive. Using
the Giga Pocket Slip Play feature, you can view a program from the beginning even while it is being recorded.
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Starting Giga Pocket
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, then click Giga Pocket. The
Giga Pocket window appears.
Giga Pocket window
The current television broadcast is displayed, based on the selected channel.
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Using the TV/Recording deck and Playback deck
Giga Pocket features two decks on the main interface window: the TV/Recording deck and the Playback deck.
TV/Recording deck (detail)
Use the TV/Recording deck to view programs and record Video Capsules. You can use the Playback deck of your Giga Pocket
to play back a prerecorded Video Capsule.
Playback deck (detail)
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Recording a Video Capsule
Giga Pocket stores recorded images as Video Capsules. The Video Capsules provide file recording information, which can be
viewed through Giga Pocket Explorer. Manage your Video Capsules with Giga Pocket Explorer.
You cannot record a program into a previously recorded Video Capsule. All new content is recorded into a new Video
Capsule.
1.
Select your program by switching to the appropriate channel. Use the channel buttons located at the bottom of
the Giga Pocket window, or use the right and left direction arrows on your keyboard.
2.
Click Record, located at the bottom of the window, to begin recording your Video Capsule.
3.
When your program has completed or you wish to end the Video Capsule, click Stop.
To pause your recording session, click Pause. Click on it again to resume recording.
Using the Slip Play feature
While a program is being recorded on the TV/Recording deck, you can watch that same program from the beginning, using
the Playback deck. You can begin using Slip Play to view your recording, beginning approximately ten seconds after your
recording session begins.
1.
From the menu bar, click Functions.
2.
Select Start Slip Play.
Additional information about Giga Pocket
Giga Pocket can be used for external video recording. Depending on conditions, not all video images can be
recorded or displayed.
Video input from game consoles may not be recorded or displayed in Giga Pocket.
When you input an image from a video player device, such as a VCR that is connected to your computer, the
following images may not record or display:
The still images of a paused playback screen.
A screen without images, such as a blue screen.
The menu screens of the attached video player device.
The Giga Pocket software's displayed image or images from a prerecorded Video Capsule may be interrupted or
distorted under the following circumstances:
If you change the channel on an attached video player device.
If you switch input during the analog input from an attached video player device.
If you attempt to play back a damaged video tape.
If you press Pause during the recording process.
When you play a Video Capsule for a few seconds from the end of the film roll using the scroll bar, you may not be
able to see a displayed image.
The computer's response may decrease when you attempt to play a Video Capsule while recording a TV program
using Giga Pocket.
Giga Pocket may interrupt or stop playback to allocate system resources for the timer recording event, if there are
other applications running simultaneously. If this occurs, wait until Giga Pocket finishes recording before playing the
Video Capsule.
The timer recording may fail due to an "Event buffer of audio overflow" error in the following circumstances:
The input cable (coaxial or video cable) is disconnected after recording starts.
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You record a TV channel that has no broadcast content.
You record video content from an old video tape with poor signal quality.
The on-screen display may shift and split under some circumstances. If this occurs, switch the TV/Recording deck
and the playback deck, or switch the channel. The recording proceeds even if the on-screen display shifts.
Giga Pocket does not operate properly if used concurrently with other video applications, such as DVgate or
MovieShaker software.
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Using the TV Program Web site
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, and then select Zap2it.
You can also go directly to the Web site at http://www.sony.com/vaiotv.
Timer Recording requires an Internet connection. See the section, To set up your Internet Electronic Program
Guide service, for information on setting up for first-time use.
Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site
The appearance of the online channel guide Web site, its contents, and the accuracy of the TV listings are
controlled by the TV listing provider and may change without notice. Pay-per-view channels can be accessed
when making payments directly to the appropriate TV program provider.
You can schedule up to 100 timer recordings using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder.
From the online channel guide, click on the REC icon to select the program you wish to record. The Timer
Recording Wizard begins and the New Timer Recording - Set Channel and Start Date and Time window
appears.
Timer recordings create virtual containers for the recorded content that are called Video Capsules.
Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.
2.
Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.
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Timer Recording Wizard
With the Timer Recording Wizard, you can set, adjust, and cancel the timer recording settings.
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Using the Timer Recording Wizard
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, then select Giga Pocket.
Select the desired option from the Select Timer Recording Settings menu and click Next. Follow the on-screen
instructions. Click Help for assistance.
New Timer Recording - Set Channel and Start Date and Time
4.
Verify that the information is correct and click Next. The programming station and time information is
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automatically programmed into the appropriate Timer Recording Wizard fields.
5.
You can set the stop time for your timer recording and select the recording mode. The stop time is automatically
programmed into the Timer Recording Wizard. Verify the stop time, choose a recording mode, and then click Next
.
Recording Mode Description
Standard Play (SP) Standard recording mode (MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and AVI).
High Quality (HQ) Image quality is improved, but recording requires more space on the hard disk drive as
compared to using SP or LP recording modes (MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and AVI).
Long Play (LP) Image quality is reduced, but recording requires less space on the hard disk drive as compared to
using HQ recording mode (MPEG-1).
New Timer Recording - Set Stop Time and Recording Mode
6.
From the New Timer Recording - Set Details dialog box, you can customize the timer recording schedule. Select
how often you want to record the program.
New Timer Recording - Set Details
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7.
Select a date for the recorded program to be automatically deleted from your hard disk drive, using the
Expiration date of Video Capsule drop-down list.
To maintain adequate space on your hard disk drive, Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder enables you to set an
expiration date for your Video Capsules to be automatically deleted.
8.
Click Decide to review your setting preferences. The New Timer Recording - Confirm dialog box appears. Click
Next.
New Timer Recording - Confirm
9.
The New Timer Recording - Completed dialog box appears. Click Finish.
New Timer Recording - Completed dialog box
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Additional information about the Timer Recording Wizard
Timer recording requires approximately 30 seconds (pre-recording) preparation time prior to beginning each
recording session. Please keep this in mind when setting up multiple, back-to-back recording sessions. Giga Pocket
software stops the current timer recording, pauses to prepare, and then begins the next timer recording according
to the set start time. The length of your first Video Capsule is approximately 30 seconds shorter than the actual
time set.
You may experience some timing problems with multiple recording sessions when the second timer recording is
preset as a daily or weekly recorded event. The first timer recording may end as early as 60 seconds sooner than
the set stop time.
Scheduled daily or weekly timer recording sessions do not occur if your hard disk drive does not have sufficient
space. Giga Pocket software does not allow a new Video Capsule to be created if there is less than 100 MB of free
space on the hard disk drive. These scheduled events resume at their scheduled time, as hard disk drive space
becomes available.
Approximately three minutes before Giga Pocket begins a timer recording and during a timer recording, you must
avoid:
Starting up or using other software applications.
Setting up, changing, or deleting timer recordings.
All activities that may access the hard disk drive, such as copying files.
Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.
2.
Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.
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Timer Recording Manager
The Timer Recording Manager keeps track of all scheduled TV recordings. Your computer settings, by default, are set to start
Timer Recording Manager automatically when the computer is turned on.
Timer recordings are being performed when the Timer Recording Manager icon (Timer Recording Manager) is visible in the
Windows taskbar. The timer recording does not start unless the Timer Recording Manager application is available. For the
Timer Recorder Manager application to be available, your computer should be in Stand by or Hibernate mode, if the system
is not in active use. You can schedule up to 100 programs at a time, for timer recording with the Timer Recording Manager.
Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time. If a different user logs
on using the fast switch feature, the Timer Recording feature is not available to another user account. The Timer Recording
Manager icon appears in the taskbar of the first user to log on.
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Using the Timer Recording Manager
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, select All Programs, select Giga Pocket, and then click All Software.
Windows Stand by button—Places the Windows operating system into Stand by mode when the preset
timer recording is set to begin, or if a Video Capsule is set to expire. Windows automatically starts and
performs the appropriate action.
Interrupt Current Recording button—Stops the current timer recording. Use this option when you wish to
end the current recording session.
Timer Recording List—Displays a list of timer recordings that have been performed, as well as pending
timer recordings. If a daily/weekly timer recording is set, only the current recording session is shown.
The total number of timer recordings displayed does not exceed 100.
Timer Recording Manager dialog box
Double-click on a recorded timer recording to play it back on Giga Pocket.
3.
Click Hide to restore Timer Recording Manager to the taskbar.
If you turn off your computer, the timer recording function is disabled.
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Viewing your selected program recording schedule
You can easily view the programs you have selected to record, using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder. The Timer
Recording Manager feature enables you to change or cancel your timer recording at any time.
To view your scheduled timer recordings, follow these steps:
1.
Double-click on the Timer Recording Manager icon located in the Windows® taskbar.
Review your scheduled timer recordings and make any desired changes or cancellations.
2.
Click Hide to return the icon to the taskbar.
You do not have to be connected to the Internet to use the Timer Recording Manager feature.
Additional information about the Timer Recording Manager
When creating a timer recording, it is important to remember the following information:
The timer recording function is disabled if you turn your computer off.
Your computer should be in Stand by or Hibernate mode, if the system is not in active use.
Disable screensavers and any other applications that may access your computer's hard disk drive during the
timer recording.
If you are using a set-top box (STB), make sure it is turned on and set to the channel you want to record.
When you set up a timer recording using Giga Pocket software, always use the Timer Recording Manager. If the
Timer Recording Manager is not set up, the recording does not start, even if you set the timer recording settings
with the Timer Recording Wizard.
Your computer's default setting enables Timer Recording Manager to start automatically when the computer is
started.
The timer recording starts a few seconds earlier than the specified recording start time.
Under certain circumstances, a daily or weekly timer recording may not be executed the second and subsequent
times.
A timer recording may fail if the computer's clock setting is changed right before the preset recording time. Before
changing the computer's clock setting, verify that there are no timer recordings set to begin.
Close the Time Recording Manager before changing the computer's clock setting. Restart Timer Recording Manager
after you have changed the time setting.
If a different user logs on, using the fast switch or switch user features, the Timer Recording feature is not available
to another user account. The Timer Recording Manager icon appears in the taskbar of the first user to log on.
Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.
2.
Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.
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Giga Pocket Explorer
The Giga Pocket Explorer application serves as a file manager for your Video Capsules. Video Capsules and saved Playlists
are managed in Cabinets.
Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to play back Video Capsules using Giga Pocket. You can import MPEG files, that were
created with compatible Sony applications, and export Video Capsules as AVI or MPEG files.
Using Giga Pocket Explorer
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs, point to Giga Pocket, point to Giga Pocket Explorer.
The Giga Pocket Explorer main window appears.
2.
Click on the desired Cabinet to see a list of saved Video Capsules and Playlists.
Giga Pocket Explorer main window
Using the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar functions
From the Giga Pocket Explorer toolbar, you can:
Launch Giga Pocket to play a selected Video Capsule or Playlist.
Launch Timer Recording Wizard to set up timer recordings.
Launch Click to DVD software to burn Video Capsules to DVD recordable media. See Click to DVD software
Help for more details.
Launch DVgate Plus software to edit your Video Capsules.
Launch Giga Pocket Help to obtain further assistance.
Change the display views for your video contents, and edit recording information.
Accessing the Click to DVD Help
For additional information about using Click to DVD software features, follow these steps to access the Click to DVD Help.
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Click to DVD and click Click to DVD Help.
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Accessing the Click to DVD Help
For additional information about using Click to DVD software features, follow these steps to access the Click to DVD Help.
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, point to All Programs.
2.
Point to DVgate Plus and click DVgate Plus Help.
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Recording Video Capsules onto recordable DVD media
You can record Video Capsules to DVD-R/DVD-RW media with the Make DVD feature.
The Click to DVD software must be installed in order to burn Video Capsules to recordable DVD media.
1.
From the Giga Pocket Explorer main window, select the Video Capsules you want to burn onto a DVD.
2.
On the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar, click Make DVD.
3.
The Click to DVD software launches. Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Exporting Video Capsules
You can export your Video Capsules as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, or AVI file formats for viewing on external media.
1.
In the list area, right-click the Video Capsule you want to export. A shortcut menu appears.
2.
Select Export. The Export dialog box appears.
Export dialog box
3.
Enter an output name for the file you want to export and specify the location for the exported file.
You can select the option, Delete Video Capsule after export. If you do not want to delete the Video Capsule
after export, leave the option disabled.
4.
In the section, "Export Video Capsule As:", select to convert to an AVI, MPEG-1, or MPEG-2 format.
5.
Click Run to begin exporting.
Some conversion formats may not be available, depending on the recording mode that was used to create the Video
Capsule.
Additional information about using Giga Pocket Explorer
Video Capsules that are recorded using High Quality (HQ) or Standard Play (SP) mode can be converted and
exported as MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and AVI files.
MPEG-2 files need a specific system environment for playback:
A VAIO computer that has Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder installed.
A VAIO computer that has a DVD-ROM or DVD-RW drive.
If you wish to play your Video Capsule in a different system environment, you can convert and export your Video
Capsule using MPEG-1 format.
Video Capsules that are recorded using Long Play (LP) mode can be converted and exported as MPEG-1 files.
You can convert an imported MPEG file into a Video Capsule, only if the file was created using DVgate Assemble or
other VAIO AV applications.
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Using Network Cabinets
Giga Pocket Explorer enables you to connect to Video Capsules in network cabinets located on other computers in the
network. These network cabinets can be accessed through the Giga Pocket Explorer main window when you are connected
to the network.
Connecting to Network Cabinets
1.
On the Giga Pocket Explorer menu, select Network and then Connect/Disconnect. The Connect/Disconnect
Server dialog box appears.
Connect/Disconnect Server dialog box
2.
Select the server you want to connect to from the Server list on the left side.
3.
Click Connect to add the selected server to the Connected Server list, then click OK. The server is connected.
4.
To disconnect, repeat step 1, then select the server you want to disconnect from the Connected Server list on
the right.
5.
Click Disconnect, then click OK. The server is disconnected.
Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
For more information about Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and select All Programs.
2.
Select Giga Pocket, Help, and click Giga Pocket Help.
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CLIÉ Converter
The CLIÉ Converter is a plug-in application that enables the conversion of Video Capsules into gMovie format. You are
able to convert your Giga Pocket contents and HotSync® onto a Memory Stick® media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ
Handheld. In order to use the CLIÉ Converter plug-in application, make sure you have install all required software for the
CLIÉ handheld.
The Sony CLIÉ Handheld personal entertainment organizers provide a rich and compelling handheld computing
experience. Powered by the Palm operating system, the CLIÉ handheld is ready to deliver music and video with amazing
clarity. For more information on this exciting device, go to the Sony Style Web site at http://sonystyle.com/vaio/clie.
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Starting CLIÉ Converter
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Giga Pocket, point to Plug-ins, and then click CLIÉ Converter. The Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter
dialog box appears.
Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main
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Converting Video Capsules
1.
From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box, click the Setting... button. The Settings dialog box
appears. Enter your desired settings and click OK.
2.
Start Giga Pocket Explorer as follows:
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar, and then select All Programs.
2.
Select Giga Pocket, and then click Giga Pocket Explorer.
3.
Resize the Giga Pocket Explorer window so that the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter dialog box is
visible.
4.
Click on the Cabinet icon to display the contents in the list area.
5.
Drag the Video Capsule from the Giga Pocket Explorer window and drop it in the list area of the Giga
Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main dialog box. The Video Capsule automatically converts into a video file.
During conversion, the Convert to CLIÉ dialog box appears, displaying the conversion status. When
conversion is complete, the dialog box automatically closes.
The conversion process may take time, depending on the settings selected.
To convert multiple Video Capsules, hold down the Ctrl key while selecting Video Capsules in Giga Pocket Explorer. Drag
and drop all selected capsules to the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window.
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Transferring converted video files to a Memory Stick media
1.
Insert a Memory Stick® media into the Memory Stick media slot on your computer.
2.
From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window, click to select the videos you want to transfer to the
Memory Stick media.
3.
Click Send To. The Send To dialog box appears.
4.
Select Using Memory Stick as the transfer destination. Click OK.
During transfer, the Forwarding dialog box appears, displaying the transfer status. When transfer is complete,
the GP2CLIE window appears. Click OK.
Your converted video files can be played back on CLIÉ Handhelds that support the use of a Memory Stick media.
Transferring converted video files using the HotSync® operation
You can transfer your converted video files directly to your CLIÉ Handheld, when you launch a HotSync operation.
1.
From the Giga Pocket -> CLIÉ Converter main window, click to select the videos you want to transfer using the
HotSync operation.
2.
Click Send To. The Send To dialog box appears.
3.
Select Using HotSync as the transfer destination. Designate a user name, if applicable to your handheld's
configuration. Click OK.
4.
The "Send to HotSync" message box appears. Follow the on-screen instructions and click OK.
For more information about the HotSync operation, see the information supplied with your CLIÉ Handheld.
Accessing the CLIÉ Converter Help
For more information about using the CLIÉ Converter plug-in application, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Giga Pocket, point to Help, and then click CLIÉ Converter Help.
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Glossary
The most common terms for Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software are defined below.
CabinetA cabinet acts as a container for Video Capsules in Giga Pocket Explorer. A network cabinet is located on
other computers in a network environment.
CATV Refers to Community Access Television, otherwise known as cable television.
Clip A clip is a Video Capsule when it is stored in a Playlist.
Cut A cut is a selected scene taken from a previously recorded Video Capsule.
Expiration date A Video Capsule is stored on the hard disk drive for a preset period of time. When this time has expired,
the Video Capsule is automatically deleted.
Film rollDuring Video Capsule playback, a snapshot view of the scenes are captured on a film roll. You can scroll
freely through the film roll to view different scenes.
GOPGroup of Pictures (GOP) are the smallest unit of measure for the images captured on a Video Capsule. A
single GOP is approximately 0.5 to 1 second in length.
HotSync® Registered trade name for the method of linking between a handheld device and a larger computer, such
as a desktop or notebook computer.
Management informationManagement information contains the creation date of Video Capsules and their thumbnails.
This information is required for preview.
MPEG fileA file that contains compressed moving pictures using the MPEG standard, with.mpg as the file name
extension.
Safety Tab Removing the safety tab from a Video Capsule prevents accidental erasing of your video data.
Slip play This feature allows you to view delayed video playback. While your recording is in progress, you are able
to view the recording from the beginning.
SnapshotA snapshot is a miniature view displayed on the film roll in Giga Pocket, Playlist Builder, and the preview
monitor in Giga Pocket Explorer.
Stand by modeStand by mode is a power saving mode that is set up by using the Windows® operating system. Your
computer stays in this power saving mode until approximately 5 minutes before the timer recording is due to begin.
STB Refers to set-top box, otherwise known as a cable box.
Thumbnail A thumbnail is a miniature view on recorded Video Capsules or in playback by Giga Pocket. The main
thumbnail is displayed in calendar view or in the Giga Pocket Explorer list area.
Timer recording A timer recording is a preset video recording event.
Video Capsule A Video Capsule is a virtual container that holds the video images recorded with Giga Pocket Recorder. A
Video Capsule is created on your computer hard disk drive and managed with Giga Pocket Explorer.
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Accessing the Giga Pocket Help
For more information about Giga Pocket, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Giga Pocket, point to Help, and then select Giga Pocket Help.
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Internet Electronic Program Guide Service
Internet Electronic Program Guide is a free, online service that enables quick and easy access to your local TV listings. You
can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service with your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder for a "one-click" set
up of timer recordings and record your favorite TV programs1.
Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder must be set up and configured correctly before you can use the Internet Electronic
Program Guide service.
You must read and accept the User Agreement before accessing the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site
(first time only).
The Internet Electronic Program Guide service is available only to users in the United States.
1
U nauthorized duplication of audio or video files is a violation of applicable laws.
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To set up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service
You must be connected to the Internet, before setting up your Internet Electronic Program Guide service.
Sony recommends using Microsoft® Internet Explorer as your Web browser to access the Internet Electronic Program
Guide service.
To set up Internet Electronic Program Guide service, follow these steps:
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Giga Pocket, then click TV Program Web site. Microsoft® Internet Explorer launches, and you are
directed to the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site.
3.
The Terms of Use window appears. Click I accept, to continue.
The Welcome and Registration window appears.
Internet Electronic Program Guide Welcome and Registration window
4.
In the Welcome! section, enter your 5-digit zip code and click Continue. The Choose Your Provider window
appears, listing all TV providers or TV services available in your area.
5.
Select your TV provider and then click Confirm Channel Lineup. The Confirm Lineup window appears, listing
available channels by number and name.
6.
Click Yes if the channel lineup is correct. Otherwise, click No and repeat steps 3 and 4 until you locate the correct
channel lineup.
7.
Your TV listings appear in table format, organized by time and channel. Click Download All Channel Settings to
set your channels. The Channel Information Converter window appears, if this is the first time you have used
this download feature. Click OK.
Close all Giga Pocket applications before downloading your TV listings.
If you are using set-top box (STB) mode, you do not need to click Download All Channel Settings.
8.
Verify the channel settings and click OK.
9.
Your personal channel settings appear whenever you access the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site.
If your TV provider adds new channels or changes existing channels, an Update icon appears next to Download All
Channel Settings. Click Update to add the new or updated channels to your personal channel setting.
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VAIO Software Tutorials
Your new VAIO® computer has audio and video software that makes it easy for you to create and edit videos, still images,
and music files. This section describes your VAIO multimedia software.
Depending on the system configuration purchased, your computer may not include all of the software described in
this section.
Your computer's visual presentation of the VAIO AV applications may vary from those shown in this manual.
Multimedia Overview
About Recordable CD and DVD Media and Playback Equipment
Copying Data to Recordable CD and DVD media
Using Drag'n Drop CD+DVD Software
Using RecordNow Software
Using Click to DVD Software
About Recording and Playing Music
Using SonicStage Software
Using SonicStage Mastering Studio Software
About Still Images (Photos)
Using PictureGear Studio Software
About Preinstalled Image-editing Software
About Video Editing
Using DVgate Plus Software
Using DVgate Software
About Networks
Using VAIO Media Software
Using Network Smart Capture Software
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Multimedia Overview
The preinstalled multimedia software give you a wide range of creative capability, such as:
Listening to music
Creating music CDs
Copying music from CDs and put them on your computer
Transferring music from your computer to different external devices
Viewing and editing your still images
Creating calendars, labels, and different art with your still images
Saving your pictures into binders, albums, or onto the Web
Saving your pictures onto CDs or DVDs
Creating interactive DVDs
Backing up data on CDs or DVDs
Editing your video content
Saving your video content onto DVDs
Sharing your multimedia between computers and across networks
Unauthorized duplication of audio or video files is a violation of applicable laws.
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About Recordable CD and DVD Media and Playback Equipment
Selecting the appropriate CD or DVD media
The following section is intended as general information for using your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive with appropriate CD or
DVD media. You can find suggestions for selecting blank recording media, understanding different disc formats, and
identifying compatible playback equipment.
If your VAIO computer does not have a recordable optical drive, you cannot create CDs or DVDs.
This table can help you identify the appropriate media to use with your recordable optical drive.
Drive Type Video and Data DVD Music and Data CDs
DVD-R
for General DVD-RW DVD+R DVD+RW CD-R CD-RW
DVD-RW Yes Yes No No Yes Yes
DVD±RW Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Recordable CD and DVD media types
DVD-R for General — DVD Recordable media for general use, also known as DVD-R(G), can be written to one time
only and cannot be erased. You can use your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drives to write data to a DVD-R disc until the disc
is full, but you cannot erase or overwrite any existing data. Certain software applications and disc formatting might
permit the addition of information to a DVD-R disc that already contains data. DVD-R for General media is
appropriate for both video and data DVD burning.
DVD-R for general media is not the same as DVD-R for Authoring media. DVD-R for Authoring discs are a special
media made for commercial DVD production and equipment.
DVD-RW — DVD Rewritable media can be written to, erased, and written to again. Using this media with your
DVD-RW or DVD±RW drives, you can record information to the same disc repeatedly, however, you must erase
existing data on the disc before each recording session. Certain software applications and disc formatting might
permit the addition of information to a DVD-RW disc that already contains data. DVD-RW media is appropriate for
both video and data DVD burning.
DVD+R — DVD+R Recordable media can be written to once and cannot be erased. You can use your DVD-RW or
DVD±RW drives to write data to a DVD+R disc until the disc is full, but cannot erase or overwrite any existing data.
DVD+R media is appropriate for both video and data DVD burning.
DVD+RW — DVD+RW Rewritable media can be written to, erased, and written to again. Using this media with your
DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive, you can record information to the same disc repeatedly, however, you must erase
existing data on the disc before each recording session. Certain software applications and disc formatting might
permit the addition of information to a DVD+RW disc that already has data on it. DVD+RW media is appropriate for
both video and data DVD burning.
CD-R — CD Recordable media can be written to once and cannot be erased. Certain software applications and disc
formatting might permit the addition of information to a CD-R disc that already has data on it. CD-R media is
appropriate for both music and data CD burning.
CD-RW — CD Rewritable media can be written to, erased, and written to again. Certain software applications and
disc formatting might permit the addition of information to a CD-RW disc that already has data on it. CD-RW media is
appropriate for music and data CD burning.
Incompatible DVDs and CDs
You cannot use these CD or DVD media for recording data or music:
CD-ROM (compact disc read-only media)
DVD-R for Authoring
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DVD-RAM
DVD-ROM
Media compatibility with different equipment varies between manufacturers. If you experience difficulty with recording
data or playing a disc, try a different disc or a different brand of media.
Additional Information
CD and DVD format is Universal Disk Format (UDF) with Joliet. UDF is a file system standard. Joliet is an extension to
the ISO 9660 standard, which enables CDs and DVDs to use long filenames and Unicode characters in a Windows
operating system environment.
A DVD-ROM drive cannot record data to a CD or DVD. A DVD-ROM drive cannot read multi-border and multi-session
discs.
DVD+R and DVD-R drives cannot read appended data.
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About Recordable CD and DVD Media and Playback Equipment
Selecting the appropriate CD or DVD media
The following section is intended as general information for using your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive with appropriate CD or
DVD media. You can find suggestions for selecting blank recording media, understanding different disc formats, and
identifying compatible playback equipment.
If your VAIO computer does not have a recordable optical drive, you cannot create CDs or DVDs.
This table can help you identify the appropriate media to use with your recordable optical drive.
Drive Type Video and Data DVD Music and Data CDs
DVD-R
for General DVD-RW DVD+R DVD+RW CD-R CD-RW
DVD-RW Yes Yes No No Yes Yes
DVD±RW Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Recordable CD and DVD media types
DVD-R for General — DVD Recordable media for general use, also known as DVD-R(G), can be written to one time
only and cannot be erased. You can use your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drives to write data to a DVD-R disc until the disc
is full, but you cannot erase or overwrite any existing data. Certain software applications and disc formatting might
permit the addition of information to a DVD-R disc that already contains data. DVD-R for General media is
appropriate for both video and data DVD burning.
DVD-R for general media is not the same as DVD-R for Authoring media. DVD-R for Authoring discs are a special
media made for commercial DVD production and equipment.
DVD-RW — DVD Rewritable media can be written to, erased, and written to again. Using this media with your
DVD-RW or DVD±RW drives, you can record information to the same disc repeatedly, however, you must erase
existing data on the disc before each recording session. Certain software applications and disc formatting might
permit the addition of information to a DVD-RW disc that already contains data. DVD-RW media is appropriate for
both video and data DVD burning.
DVD+R — DVD+R Recordable media can be written to once and cannot be erased. You can use your DVD-RW or
DVD±RW drives to write data to a DVD+R disc until the disc is full, but cannot erase or overwrite any existing data.
DVD+R media is appropriate for both video and data DVD burning.
DVD+RW — DVD+RW Rewritable media can be written to, erased, and written to again. Using this media with your
DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive, you can record information to the same disc repeatedly, however, you must erase
existing data on the disc before each recording session. Certain software applications and disc formatting might
permit the addition of information to a DVD+RW disc that already has data on it. DVD+RW media is appropriate for
both video and data DVD burning.
CD-R — CD Recordable media can be written to once and cannot be erased. Certain software applications and disc
formatting might permit the addition of information to a CD-R disc that already has data on it. CD-R media is
appropriate for both music and data CD burning.
CD-RW — CD Rewritable media can be written to, erased, and written to again. Certain software applications and
disc formatting might permit the addition of information to a CD-RW disc that already has data on it. CD-RW media is
appropriate for music and data CD burning.
Incompatible DVDs and CDs
You cannot use these CD or DVD media for recording data or music:
CD-ROM (compact disc read-only media)
DVD-R for Authoring
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DVD-RAM
DVD-ROM
Media compatibility with different equipment varies between manufacturers. If you experience difficulty with recording
data or playing a disc, try a different disc or a different brand of media.
Additional Information
CD and DVD format is Universal Disk Format (UDF) with Joliet. UDF is a file system standard. Joliet is an extension to
the ISO 9660 standard, which enables CDs and DVDs to use long filenames and Unicode characters in a Windows
operating system environment.
A DVD-ROM drive cannot record data to a CD or DVD. A DVD-ROM drive cannot read multi-border and multi-session
discs.
DVD+R and DVD-R drives cannot read appended data.
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About Compatible Playback Equipment
Compatibility between CD or DVD media and playback equipment may vary.
Not all DVD players can play back video DVDs created on your computer.
Some DVD players can play back DVD-R(G) media, but are incompatible with DVD-RW media.
Some DVD players can only read certain brands of DVD-R or DVD-RW media.
Some older computer CD-ROM drives cannot read data CD-R and CD-RW discs.
Some older computer DVD-ROM drives cannot read certain DVD discs.
Determining equipment, media, and format compatibility
This table provides general information to help you determine the appropriate media formats and equipment for playing
different media. For specific information about product compatibility, see the documentation supplied with the specific media
and equipment.
Playback Equipment
Media and Format Compatibility
Video DVD Music CD Data DVD Data CD
Computer
DVD drive Varies Yes Varies Yes
Computer
CD drive No Yes No Yes
DVD player Varies Varies No No
Audio CD player No Varies No Varies
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Copying Data to Recordable CD and DVD media
You can copy files to recordable media, using your computer's CD-RW, DVD-RW, or DVD±RW drive. For detailed information
on your system's hardware configuration, see the specification sheet.
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Adding data to a data DVD
When creating a data DVD, you can choose to keep the writing session open and make a disc appendable, which means
you can keep adding information to the disc.
Appendable writing — You can add more data to a disc as long as space is available on the disc. The recording
session can stay open until the disc is full. Although the space on the disc may be used efficiently, a disc written to
incrementally may not be compatible with all DVD drives.
Non-appendable writing — All data is written to the disc at one time and the writing session is closed, even if there
is more space available on the disc. You can not add more data to the disc. Non-appendable discs are more
compatible with different DVD drives.
A video DVD is always non-appendable.
The table below describes the writing method for different media types for appendable and non-appendable writing.
Writing Method
Media Type Appendable Non-appendable
DVD-R Multi-border Disc at once
DVD-RW Restructured overwrite Disc at once
DVD+R Multi-session Disc at once
DVD+RW Single-session Disc at once
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Using Windows XP to create a CD or DVD
1.
Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into your CD-RW, DVD-RW, or DVD±RW drive. (If the CD Drive window
appears, click Take no action.)
2.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, and then click My Computer. Locate the files and folders you want to copy
to the CD.
3.
Point to select a file or folder, or select several files or folders by holding down CTRL while pointing to each of
the files you want.
4.
Under File and Folder Tasks, click Copy this file, Copy this folder, or Copy the selected items.
If the files are located in My Pictures, under Picture Tasks, click Copy to CD or Copy all items to CD. Skip to step
6.
If your files are located in My Music, under Music Tasks, click Copy to audio CD or Copy all items to audio CD.
Skip to step 6.
5.
In the Copy Items dialog box, click the read/write drive icon1, and then click Copy.
6.
Under Other Places, click My Computer, and then click the CD-RW or DVD-RW drive.
Windows displays the temporary area that holds the files until they are copied to the CD.
7.
Confirm that the files and folders you want to copy are displayed under Files Ready to Be Written to the CD.
8.
Click Write to CD, under CD Writing Tasks. The CD Writing Wizard starts.
9.
Follow the on-screen instructions in the wizard to complete writing the files or folders to the CD.
When the writing process is finished, the wizard displays a check box that enables you to copy another CD. To
create additional copies, click Yes, write these files to another CD, insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc, and then
click Next.
1
T he read/write drive letter designation may vary, depending your sys tem's hardware configuration.
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Using Drag'n Drop CD+DVD Software
Drag'n Drop CD+DVD software easily creates data CDs and DVDs, as well as music CDs. Music, DISC Backup, and Data are
the main features for Drag'n Drop software.
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and click All Programs.
2.
Point to Drag'n Drop CD+DVD and then click Drag'n Drop CD+DVD.
Drag'n Drop CD+DVD software starts and three Drag'n Drop CD+DVD icons (Music, Disc Backup, and Data)
appear on your desktop.
3.
Drag the desired music files onto the Music icon.
Drag the contents of a CD or DVD that you want to back up onto the DISC Backup icon.
Drag the desired data files onto the Data icon.
Drag'n Drop CD+DVD icons
4.
Insert a blank, recordable CD or DVD1, and click the arrow icon. A progress windows displays as the data is
written to the CD or DVD media.
1
U s e the appropriate C D or DV D media for each recording session.
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To access Drag'n Drop CD+DVD software Help
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs
2.
Point to Drag'n Drop CD+DVD, and then click Drag'n Drop CD+DVD Help.
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Using RecordNow Software
If your VAIO® computer is equipped with a DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive, you can copy files to DVD recordable media, using the
preinstalled RecordNow software.
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to VERITAS Software, point to RecordNow, and then click RecordNow.
The RecordNow main window appears.
RecordNow main window
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To access RecordNow software Help
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to VERITAS Software, point to RecordNow, and then click RecordNow Help.
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Using Click to DVD Software
Use Click to DVD Automatic Mode software to quickly and easily make interactive DVDs. For more customized features,
use Click to DVD software.
To access Click to DVD software Help
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Click to DVD, and then click to select Click to DVD Help.
To access Click to DVD Automatic Mode software Help
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Click to DVD, and then click to select Click to DVD Automatic Mode Help.
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Starting a video DVD project
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to Click to DVD, and then click to select Click to DVD.
The Click to DVD - New Project (Start) window appears.
3.
Connect an i.LINK® cable between the digital video device and the computer, and set the device to VCR/VTR
mode.
For details on how to connect equipment to your computer, see the documentation supplied with the device and
your online VAIO® Computer User Guide.
If the Digital Video Device window appears, follow these steps to start Click to DVD software:
1.
Click to select Create a DVD with movies and pictures.
2.
Click OK. The Click to DVD -New Project (Start) window appears.
Click to DVD - New Project (Start)
4.
Type a title for your DVD in the DVD Title box. This text appears in the title window of your completed DVD.
5.
In the Select a theme area, select a theme from the pull-down menu.
6.
Click a theme icon to select the background image and background music. Your selected menu theme appears in
the preview window.
Clear the Muting check box to hear the background music. The music becomes part of your DVD regardless of
this setting.
7.
In the Select Type area, make sure to select the Video check box and clear the Pictures check box.
8.
Under the Video check box, select one of the three quality options. High Quality video requires more storage
space on your DVD.
9.
Click Capture Video.
10.
When the message Upon completion of video capture, it is not possible to change the picture quality. Are you
sure you want to continue? appears, click OK.
Capture Video
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11.
Select the Automatic Capture option and the Rewind tape check box.
With these settings, the Click to DVD software rewinds the tape and then captures all the video clips on the
tape.
12.
Click Capture. To stop capturing at any time, click Stop Capture.
The Click to DVD software rewinds the tape in your DV device and begins capturing all the video clips on the
tape. After all the clips are captured, they appear in the clip tray at the bottom of the window.
Each captured clip becomes a chapter on your finished DVD. You can then select the chapters that appear in the
chapter windows.
Capturing continues until the end of the tape or a blank segment of tape is reached.
To edit your video content
To edit your captured clips, click Edit Video. The Edit Video window appears.
Edit Video
In the Edit Video window, your video clips appear in playback order. In this window, you can:
Delete unwanted clips by dragging them to the Recycle Bin.
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Drag clips to a new position to change the playback order.
Divide a clip into two separate clips.
1.
Click to select a clip.
2.
Move the slider to the point where you want to divide the clip.
3.
Click Divide.
Delete unwanted sections of clips by dividing a clip and dragging the unwanted portion to the Recycle Bin.
Combine two clips into one by clicking the Combine button between two clips
To set up your DVD
1.
Once you have edited and arranged your video clips, click Create DVD1 from the feature buttons located at the
top of the window.
The Create DVD window appears.
Create DVD
2.
To view the title and chapter windows of your DVD, click the Title Menu and Video Menu.
Click Next and Previous to move through multiple chapter windows.
To create a menu
To change the windows of your DVD, click Create Menu.
Create Menu
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From the Create Menu window, you can modify the automatically created windows.
Click Title Menu and Video Menu at the left of the window to move between the title window and the chapter
windows.
Click Theme to change the background image for the windows.
Click Background Music to change the background music for the windows.
Click any text in the windows, or in the boxes surrounded with dotted lines, to change the text descriptions of the
windows.
Click Text to change the text properties of the windows
When viewing chapter windows, click Chapter to change which chapters on the DVD appear in the chapter windows
and to change the thumbnail images that represent chapters in the chapter windows.
To preview your DVD
Before you can preview your video content, the video must be converted to DVD format. Depending on the speed of your
computer and the length of the video, it may take some time before the preview feature is available.
1.
Click Preview to see the contents of your DVD.
A window displays the progress of your DVD project for preview. When finished, the Preview window appears.
2.
In the Preview window, view your finished DVD.
The Preview window has controls that enable you to navigate through the video content on your DVD.
Preview window controls
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3.
After previewing the DVD, click Close.
After viewing your DVD, you can make further changes by returning to the Create Menu feature.
To burn your DVD
1.
When your DVD project is complete, click Create DVD! to begin burning the project to a DVD disc.
2.
At the message prompt, Insert a recordable DVD disc into the drive, and click OK to continue, insert a blank
DVD-R, a DVD-RW, a DVD+R, or a DVD+RW disc into your DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive, and then click OK.
The Click to DVD software program begins burning your DVD.
Creating a DVD can require several hours to complete. Interrupting the DVD creation process can result
in an unusable DVD disc. Sony recommends that you do not use other software applications on your computer while
Click to DVD software is burning your DVD.
While the Click to DVD program is creating a DVD, you may see your computer's hard disk drive access indicator
flash repeatedly. This is normal behavior.
3.
When Click to DVD software finishes burning the DVD, click No.
The DVD-RW or DVD±RW drive tray opens.
The DVD is now ready for use in a home DVD player or on a computer with a DVD drive and DVD player software.
1
Do not click C reate DV D! at this s tage, as this starts the DVD burning process. Y ou are not able to make any changes to your video content once the DV D
has been created.
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To save the DVD on your computer's hard drive
Save your DVD project to your computer, so that you can edit its contents or create additional copies later.
1.
Click Menu.
2.
Select Save Project, type a name for your project in the File name field.
3.
Click Save.
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Additional Information
For best results before capturing video clips:
Configure your computer so capturing is not interrupted.
Exit all other open applications, and disable screen savers.
On VAIO® computers equipped with Giga Pocket features, cancel any scheduled timer recording sessions.
For best results while Click to DVD software is capturing clips:
Do not connect or disconnect i.LINK® or USB cables.
Do not turn on or turn off i.LINK or USB devices that are connected to your computer.
Do not attempt to access the Internet or other network services.
Do not start additional software programs.
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About Recording and Playing Music
The Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system and the multimedia software preinstalled on your VAIO® computer make it
easy to import, export, organize, play back, and burn music CDs1.
1
U nauthorized duplication of audio files is a violation of applicable laws.
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Transferring music files to your VAIO computer
You can transfer music to your VAIO computer from many different sources.
Audio CDs — Put your CD into your optical drive and check in songs to your computer's hard drive.
From external devices1 using a USB cable — Connect your external device, such as a Network Walkman® or CLIÉ
Handheld, to your VAIO computer and check in the songs to your computer's hard drive.
MagicGate Memory Stick media — For computers with a built-in Memory Stick media slot, transfer songs to and
from a MagicGate Memory Stick media.
Electronic Music Distribution2 (EMD) services on the Internet — Download songs from the Internet to your
computer's hard drive, using Electronic Music Distribution services.
Analog records or casettes — Use SonicStage Mastering Studio software to bring music from these sources into
your computer.
1
Equipment compatibility may vary. See the documentation s upplied with the device for details.
2
U s e of an EMD service requires Internet acc ess and separate subsc ription to the EMD s ervice. The SonicStage s oftware supports only EM D services
compatible with O penM G technology. Refer to the online Help within the Sonic Stage software for details.
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Using SonicStage Software
SonicStage software is a digital music management system. You can play music on your computer, create custom audio
CDs1, and much more.
Play and record music from audio CDs — Play your audio CDs and record audio tracks to your computer. Combine
music tracks into Playlists and check them out to portable music devices.
Create custom audio CDs2— Create custom audio CDs from SonicStage Playlists, mixing tracks from different
sources and artists.
Make backup copies of your audio CDs — Use SonicStage software's Backing Up Audio CDs utility to create backup
copies of your audio CDs.
Use Playlists to organize and manage your music — Organize your music with SonicStage software's Playlist
feature. Create lists of songs sorted by artist or genre.
Download music from Electronic Music Distribution (EMD) services on the Internet — Use Electronic Music
Distribution services to download music tracks from the Internet, include them in your Playlists, and check them out
to your portable digital music devices.
Import audio files onto your computer — Import MP3 and WAV audio files onto your computer to add them to
Playlists and record to CD.
Turning your computer into a karaoke system — Use the Vocal Canceler effect to suppress the vocal track from
most music during playback.
Enjoy a Visualizer light show during music playback — Enjoy the visual effects while your music plays.
1
U nauthorized duplication of audio files is a violation of applicable laws.
2
T his feature is available only on c omputers that have a CD-RW drive.
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Starting SonicStage software
1.
Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to SonicStage, and then click SonicStage.
SonicStage - Welcome
3.
The CDDB® registration window appears. Follow the on-screen instructions to register with the CDDB® service.
The Confirm the setup of SonicStage... dialog box appears.
4.
Click Yes to continue.
The CDDB® (Compact Disc Database) Music Recognition Service registration wizard enables you to register with the
CDDB service. You need Internet access from your computer to register and use this service. For more information regarding
CDDB registration, click the Help button.
To access SonicStage software Help
1.
Click Start on the Windows taskbar, and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to SonicStage, and then click SonicStage Help.
SonicStage features and controls
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1 Recording Assistant button
Records or transfers audio files. 8Volume Control buttons
Controls the volume for playing audio files.
2Source icons
Changes the window depending on the selected feature. 9Equalizer button
Adjusts the sound quality and registers new settings.
3Playback Area (Playlist view)
Depending on the selected source, lets you do different things. Play, pause, stop, fast forward, and reverse with the Player
buttons. 10Sound Effect button
Displays the menu where you can adjust the Vocal Canceller settings.
4Import button
Displays the Import window, where you can import audio files from the hard disk drive to the Music Drive. 11Visualizer button
Displays or hides the Visualizer window where you can view images synchronized to the audio file's sound.
5 Content Area (Playlist view)
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Displays the playlists in the Categorized List you selected. Double-click a playlist to view its tracks. 12 Internet
button
Displays or hides the Internet window where you can download or stream audio files via EMD services.
6Categorized List (Tree view)
Displays the playlists stored in the Music Drive by artist name, genre, format, etc. Helps you locate your audio files.
13Internet address drop-down list (Playlist view)
Displays Internet addresses associated with the currently selected song.
7Menu button
Displays the SonicStage software's main menu. 14Switch to Edit Area button
Switches the Content Area to the Edit Area.
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Recording from a CD
You can record songs from audio CDs and add them to playlists in SonicStage software.
When you record from an audio CD from your optical drive for the first time, the CD Drive Optimization dialog box
appears. Click Start to verify your optical drive. After the verification is performed, recording begins.
To record music from a CD
1.
Insert an audio CD into your computer's optical drive.
The Microsoft® Windows® system recognizes the CD, and a window may appear asking you to select an action.
Click Cancel to close this window.
When SonicStage software is running and an audio CD is inserted, an Internet connection to the CDDB® service
is automatically launched to retrieve artist and track information. An error message is displayed if there is no
Internet connection. Follow these steps to disable this function:
1.
Click Menu.
2.
Select CD Settings.
3.
Clear the Start playing the CD automatically check box.
2.
Start SonicStage software.
3.
When the Main Window appears, click . The Recording Assistant Window appears.
4.
Select the CD icon in the Source box, and then select the Music Drive icon in the Target box.
5.
Click the Jump to Record Window button. The Record Window appears.
6.
Click to view the List Area of the Record window. To select specific files on your CD, click to
check or clear the check marks of the tracks on the CD. A check mark indicates you have selected that track for
recording.
Record Window
7.
Click CD Info in the lower-left corner of the Record Window to launch the CDDB service, which names your CD
and its song titles.
Not all audio CDs support the CD Info button.
8.
Click Change CD Recording Format in the Record Window to select a different recording format and bit rate.
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9.
When recording the audio tracks on a CD, you can:
1.
Click the Record All button to record all the tracks on a CD.
2.
Click the Rec Selection button to record the specific tracks you checked in the List Area.
10.
When the Select Playlist window appears, select either Create a New Playlist or Add to Playlist, and then click
Start Rec. When the recording is finished, the playlist appears in the Playlist window.
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Transferring songs (Check-In/Check-Out)
Use SonicStage software to transfer audio files between the playlists stored in the Music Drive on your computer and
external devices or media. Transferring files from the Music Drive to the external device or media is called "check-out," while
transferring files from the external device or media to the Music Drive is called "check-in."
To check-out songs to an external device
1.
Connect the external device or insert the media into your computer.
2.
Start SonicStage software.
3.
When the Main Window appears, click . Your computer automatically recognizes the connected
external device or media and the Check-In/Out Window appears.
4.
Click to view the List Area of the Check-In/Out window.
Check-In/Out window
5.
Select the playlist that contains the track that you want to check out. The tracks in the playlist are shown in the
Playlist view panel.
6.
Click the track to select it, or select several tracks by holding down CTRL while pointing to each of the tracks you
want.
7.
Click Check-Outto begin the check-out process.
To cancel check-out click Stop.
To check-in songs
You must check songs back into the same computer where the songs were checked out.
1.
Connect the external device or insert the media into your computer.
Your computer automatically recognizes the connected external device or media and the Check-In/Out Window
appears.
2.
Click to view the List Area of the Check-In/Out window.
3.
Select a track from the song list of the external device or media. To check in more than one track at a time, hold
down the Ctrl key and click the additional songs.
4.
Click Check-In , or drag the tracks onto the Playlist view panel to begin the check-in process. If you want to
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check in all of the tracks in the external device or media, click the Check-In All button.
To cancel check-out, click Stop.
To make a backup copy of an audio CD
On computer models equipped with a CD recording device, you can use the Backing Up Audio CDs utility to make a backup
copy of an audio CD.
On computer models that have both a read-only optical drive and an optical writing drive, you can make a copy with one
click.
On computer models with only one optical drive, you must swap the original CD for a blank CD-R disc when requested to do
so in the middle of the copying process.
1.
Click Start in the Windows® taskbar, and point to All Programs.
2.
Point to SonicStage and click the SonicStage Backup Tool.
3.
Insert the music CD into the optical drive you use to read CDs. Depending upon your computer model, this could
be a CD-ROM drive, CD-RW drive, a DVD-ROM drive, a DVD-RW drive, or a Combo Drive.
On computer models that have both a read-only optical drive (CD-ROM or DVD-ROM) and an optical writing drive
(CD-RW or DVD-RW), put the CD into the read-only optical drive.
4.
Select your CD drive in the Retrieve from drive list.
5.
On computer models that have both a read-only optical drive (CD-ROM or DVD-ROM) and an optical writing drive
(CD-RW or DVD-RW), select the optical writing drive in the Write to drive list.
6.
Click Start.
7.
If a Reading complete message appears, remove the original source CD from the optical writing drive and insert
a blank CD-R disc.
8.
Click OK.
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