This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machinereadable form without prior written approval.
Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and hereby
expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this manual, the
software or such other information. In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential, or special damages,
whether based on tort, contract, or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the software, or other information
contained herein or the use thereof.
Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without
notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.
Sony, DVgate, i.LINK™
are trademarks of Sony Corporation. i.LINK™ is the name for the IEEE 1394-1995 standards and their revisions.
Microsoft, Windows and the Windows logo, Windows Media and Outlook are trademarks or registered trademarks of U.S. Microsoft
Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
®
Adobe
, Adobe® Acrobat® Reader, Adobe® Premiere® are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
QuickTime and the QuickTime logo are trademarks used under license. QuickTime is registered in the U.S. and other countries.
RealPlayer is a trademark or registered trademark of RealNetworks, inc. in the U.S. and other countries.
PowerPanel is a trademark of U.S. Phoenix Technologies Corporation.
VirusScan is a trademark of Network Associates Corporation.
All other names of systems, products and services are trademarks of their respective owners. In the manual, the ™ or
specified.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
and the i.LINK logo, JogDial™ , PictureGear, Memory Stick and the Memory Stick logo, VAIO and the VAIO logo
®
marks are not
Read this first
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
3
As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
The International E
computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that
effectively reduce energy consumption. It is an open system in which business proprietors can participate voluntarily. The targeted
products are office equipment such as computers, displays, printers, facsimiles and copiers. Their standards and logos are uniform
among participating nations.
NERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.
E
NERGY STAR Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use of
Read this first
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
4
Safety information
Owner's record
The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony notebook. Record the serial number in the space provided
here. Refer to the model and serial number when you call VAIO-Link.
Serial number:________________________
Model number:
PCG-431M/PCG-433M
Read this first
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
5
Warnings
General
❑Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee.
❑To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.
❑To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose your VAIO notebook to rain or moisture.
❑Avoid using the modem during a storm.
❑Do not use the modem or a telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
❑To change the backup battery, please contact your nearest SONY Service Center.
Audio/video
❑Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any
equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation.
Connectivity
❑Never install modem or telephone wiring during a storm.
❑Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations.
❑Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.
❑Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your notebook completely from
mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.
❑Please make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.
❑Never touch uninsulated telephone wire or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected
at the network interface.
Read this first
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
6
CD-ROM
❑The use of the optical instruments supplied with your notebook will cause eye hazard. As the laser beam
used in this product is harmful to eyes, do not attempt any disassembling process. For servicing, refer to
qualified personnel only.
Hard disk drive
The magnetic properties of some objects can have serious consequences for your hard disk drive. They can
erase the data on the hard drive and cause the computer to malfunction. Do not place your computer near
or on any products which emit magnetic fields, mainly:
This product conforms to the following European Directives:
73/23/EEC (Low Voltage Directive)
89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC (EMC Directives)
93/68/EEC (CE Marking Directive)
1999/5/EC (radio equipment and telecommunications terminal equipment Directive)
This product complies with EN 55022 Class B and EN 55024 for use in following areas: residential, commercial and light-industrial.
This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables shorter than
3 metres (9.8 feet).
The optical disc drive is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Product Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair
and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper repairs and use can create safety hazards.
CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT
TO EN 60825-1
!
Read this first
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
8
Disposing of lithium ion batteries
Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life.
Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not
disassemble, heat above 60°C (140°F) or incinerate.
Keep away from children.
Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For changing this battery, please
contact VAIO-Link:
http://www.vaio-link.com
In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.
Use the public collection system.
Welcome
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
9
Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO notebook. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in
audio, video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.
Here are just some of the features your VAIO notebook has to offer.
❑Exceptional performance - Your PC includes a fast processor, a fast CD-ROM drive and an internal
modem.
❑Portability - The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power.
❑Sony audio and video quality - A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today’s
advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.
❑Multimedia features – Enjoy the speakers to listen to audio and video CDs.
❑Interconnectivity – Your computer has Memory Stick
Sony’s new universal storage medium. i.LINK is a bidirectional digital interface for exchanging data.
❑Windows
❑Communications - Access popular online services, send and receive e-mails, browse the Internet...
❑Excellent customer support - If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, please check
®
- Your system includes the latest operating system from Microsoft.
the VAIO-Link website for a possible solution:
http://www.vaio-link.com
❑Before contacting VAIO-Link, you may try to solve the problem by reading the User Guide or the manuals
and help files for the peripherals or software.
™
and i.LINK™ functionalities. Memory Stick is
Welcome
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
10
Documentation pack
Your Documentation Pack contains paper and online user guides on a Documentation CD-ROM.
Printed documentation
❑A Getting Started brochure, where you find a brief description of the items in your box and some
specifications of your notebook. This also offers a quick guide to setting up your computer;
❑A Customer Guide, where you find all the basic information to start using your notebook;
❑Yo ur Sony Guarantee conditions;
❑A Safety Regulations Guide for your information.
Online documentation
1The Sony Notebook User Guide:
❑Using Your Sony Notebook shows you how to use the standard components of your system.
❑Connecting Peripheral Devices explains how you can add functionality by connecting various
peripherals.
❑Getting Help explains the support options available to you, and offers basic troubleshooting tips.
❑Precautions provides facts and advice about using your notebook.
❑Specifications provides details on your computer, drivers and accessories.
Welcome
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
11
2Refer to your Software Guide for information on the bundled software and the Sony applications.
❑About the Software is a short description of the features of the software pre-installed on your
system.
❑Customizing your notebook explains how to set your system and power management.
❑Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs explains how to perform a system and application
recovery.
3Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and
troubleshooting.
4Refer to the Microsoft Quick Start manual for more information on Windows.
Welcome
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
12
Your notebook and its accessories
Remove the following hardware items from the box:
1main unit6documentation pack
2rechargeable battery pack7AC adapter
3display adapter8power cord (country specific)
4CD-ROM drive9phone plug (country specific)
5product recovery CD-ROMs10phone cable
Welcome
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
13
Ergonomic considerations
❑You will be using your notebook as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible,
you should attempt to take account of the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and
portable environments:
❑Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms
horizontal (2), with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard,
touchpad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during
sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.
❑Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet
are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and
avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.
Welcome
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
14
❑Viewing angle of the computer’s display – Use the display’s tilting feature to find the best position.
You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position.
Adjust the brightness setting of the display as well.
❑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.
❑Placement of an external display – When using an external display, set the display at a comfortable
viewing distance. Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in
front of the display.
Using your notebook
Using your notebook
This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal and
external devices.
* Depending on the model and your country of residence.
nN
17
Using your notebook
Back
nN
18
Sony Notebook User Guide
1battery connector(page 20)
Bottom
1battery lock lever (page 20)
2battery release lever (page 20)
3ventilation area
Using your notebook
Connecting a power source
You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.
Using the AC adapter
To use the AC adapter, proceed as follows:
1Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (1) into the DC In connector (2) on the computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide
2Plug one end of the power cord (3) into the AC adapter.
3Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.
✍ Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter.
nN
19
To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.
Make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.
Using your notebook
Using the battery pack
You can use a battery pack as a source of power.
The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.
Inserting the battery pack
To insert the battery, proceed as follows:
1Move the lock lever (1) on the bottom of the computer to the Unlock position.
Sony Notebook User Guide
2Align the grooves (2) and tabs on the battery (3) with the tabs and notches on the back of the computer,
nN
20
and then slide the battery towards the computer until it clicks into place.
3Slide the lock lever into the Lock position to secure the battery on the computer.
✍ When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack inserted in the battery bay, it uses power from the AC outlet.
! Make sure the cover is closed before inserting the battery pack.
Using your notebook
Charging the battery pack
To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows:
1Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2Insert the battery pack.
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
21
The computer automatically charges the battery (1) (the battery indicator (2) light flashes in a double
blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85% full, the battery indicator light turns off.
This process takes approximately 5.5 hours if your notebook is on. To charge the battery completely,
continue charging for three additional hours.
battery indicator light statusmeaning
onThe computer is using battery power.
single blinkThe battery is running out of power.
double blinkThe battery is charging.
offThe computer is using AC power.
Using your notebook
✍ When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink.
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
22
Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the
computer.
If the battery level falls to below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully
charged battery.
You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPan el utility.
The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery does
not affect battery life or battery autonomy.
The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When the battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts
flashing.
Using your notebook
Removing the battery pack
To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows:
1Turn off the computer and close the cover.
2Slide the lock lever (1) to the Unlock position.
3Slide the release lever (2) to the Unlock position and slide the battery away from the computer.
Sony Notebook User Guide
✍ You can remove the battery pack without turning off the computer when it is connected to the mains voltage (AC adapter).
nN
23
Close the cover before you remove the battery pack.
You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while
the computer is in System Suspend mode.
Using your notebook
Starting your notebook
To start your computer, proceed as follows:
1Slide the LCD lock lever (1) in the direction of the arrow, and lift the cover.
Sony Notebook User Guide
2Slide the power switch (2) of the computer until the green power indicator (3) light turns on.
nN
24
3If necessary, press <Fn>+<F5> to adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To increase the
brightness, use the up or right arrow keys. To decrease, use the down or left arrow keys.
✍ If you hold the power switch in the on position for more than four seconds, the computer will turn off.
Using your notebook
Shutting down your notebook
It is important that you shut down your computer properly in order not to lose unsaved data.
To shut down your computer, proceed as follows:
1Click the Start button on the Windows
2Click Shut Down.
Sony Notebook User Guide
3Select Shut down.
4Click OK.
5Wait for your computer to turn off automatically.
6Turn off any peripheral connected to your computer.
✍ Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.
nN
25
®
taskbar.
The Shut Down dialog box appears.
The power indicator turns off.
If you are unable to shut down your computer:
close all software in use,
remove the PC Cards if inserted,
disconnect any USB devices,
Then press the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> keys at the same time; the Task Manager appears, allowing you to close open applications and to shut
down the computer. If this does not work, you can slide the power switch forward and hold for four seconds. This will shut down the computer. This
operation may result in data loss.
During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend mode.
Using your notebook
Registering your notebook
You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive the following
benefits by registering your computer:
❑VAIO-Link – If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, you can check the VAIO-Link web
❑Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee sheet for the terms and conditions and refer
Sony Notebook User Guide
To register your Sony Notebook, proceed as follows:
1Click on the Welcome button on your desktop,
2Click Next,
3Click Internet,
4Fill in your Registration card fields,
5Scroll down to the bottom of the form and click Send,
6Click OK.
✍ You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online registration service.
nN
26
site for a possible solution:
http://www.vaio-link.com
to your Customer Service Guide for more information.
To access the online Registration web page, you must have a connection to the Internet.
Using your notebook
Using the keyboard
Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer’s, but the keyboard has additional keys that perform
specific notebook-related tasks.
Sony Notebook User Guide
nN
27
KeysDescriptions
Escape key (1)The <Esc> (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Function keys (2)The twelve function keys along the top of the keyboard are used to perform designated
tasks. For example, in many applications, <F1> is the Help key. The task associated with
each function key may vary from one application to the next.
Print Screen key (3)The <Print Screen> key takes an electronic snapshot of the screen and moves it to the
Windows Clipboard. You can then paste the screenshot into a document and print it.
Using your notebook
KeysDescriptions
Correction keys (4)The <Insert>, <Back Space> and <Delete> keys enable you to make corrections.
Fn key (5)The <Fn> key is used in combination with other keys to execute commands.
Navigation keys (6) These keys enable you to move the cursor on the screen.
Numeric keypad area (8)Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type
Sony Notebook User Guide
Operator keys (9)Several keys are always used with at least one other key: <Ctrl>, <Alt>, and <Shift>.
Combinations and functions with the Windows key
nN
28
Application key (7) The Application key displays a shortcut menu; pressing this key is equivalent to clicking the
right mouse button.
numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Note
that you must press the <Num Lock> key to activate the numeric keypad. When you do
so, the <Num Lock> indicator illuminates.
When held down with another key, the <Ctrl> (Control) and <Alt> (Alternate) keys offer
another way to execute commands. For example, in many applications, instead of
choosing the Save command from a menu, you can hold down <Ctrl> and press S
(referred to as <Ctrl>+<S>). The <Shift> key is used to produce capital letters or special
symbols such as @ and $.
clicking the Start button on the taskbar.
Windows
®
key (10) The key with the Windows®logo displays the Windows®Start menu; it is equivalent to
CombinationsFunctions
+ F1Displays Windows Help.
+ TabSwitches the selected button on the taskbar.
+ EDisplays Windows Explorer.
Using your notebook
CombinationsFunctions
+ FDisplays the Search Results window to find a file or folder.
+ Ctrl + FDisplays the Search Results - Computer window where you can locate other
+ MMinimizes all displayed windows.
Sony Notebook User Guide
Shift + + MReturns all minimized windows to their previous size.
nN
29
This is equivalent to selecting Search and then For files or Folders from the Start
menu.
computers.
+ RDisplays the Run
+ InsertDisplays the System Properties
System icon in the Control Panel.
window. This is equivalent to selecting Run from the Start menu.
window. This is equivalent to double-clicking the
Indicators
IndicatorFunctions
power Power on: lights green.
System Idle mode: lights amber.
System Suspend mode: flashes amber.
Battery Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the computer.
Memory Stick™ Turns on when the Memory Stick™ is in use. Turns off when the Memory Stick™ is no longer in use.
Using your notebook
LightOnOff
hard diskData is read from or written to the hard
Num LockTurns on when the number keys in the
Sony Notebook User Guide
Caps LockTurns on when the letters appear in
Scroll LockTurns on when the screen scrolls
✍ If you connect an external keyboard and activate the Num Lock function, the Num Lock function on your notebook’s keyboard will also be activated.
drive. Do not enter System Suspend
mode or turn off the computer when this
indicator light is on.
numeric keypad are active*.
uppercase as you type. The <Shift> key
lowers the case of typed letters when
Caps Lock is on.
differently (depends on the application,
no effect in many applications.)
nN
30
The hard drive is not being accessed.
Turns off when the alphanumeric
character keys in the keypad area are
active.
Turns off when the letters appear in
lowercase as you type (unless you hold
down the <Shift> key).
Turns off when the information moves
across the display normally.
Loading...
+ 72 hidden pages
You need points to download manuals.
1 point = 1 manual.
You can buy points or you can get point for every manual you upload.