Sony VAIO Digital Studio User Manual

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VAIO Digit a l St u d io™ Computer User Guide

Contents

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

Locating Contro ls An d Conne c tors...........7

Front Panel Overview..................................................7

Back Panel Overview............. ...................................10

VAIO Action Setu p ...... ..............................13

Shortcut Keys............................................................13

To Change the Sony Software Window Design........14

VAIO AV Applications...... .........................15

Overview of Pr ei n s t al led So f t ware ...........................16

DigitalPrint Software.................................................19

DVgate Software.......................................................27

MovieSha ker Softwar e....... .......................................29

PictureGear Software ................................................37

Smart Capture............................................................40

SonicStage Software .................................................49

VisualF low So f twa r e............ .....................................5 6

Additional Software Information ..............................58

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Conf ig uring Your VAIO C omputer.. .. .......59

Hard Disk Drive Partition...................................... ...59

i.LINK (IEEE1394) Compatibility ...........................60

System, Application,

And Driver Recovery CD(s)...................... 63

To Use the System Reco ve ry CD( s).................. .......64

To Use the Applicatio n Recov er y CD(s)............. .....66

To Use the Driver Recovery CD...............................67

Troubleshooting ........................................69

Topics........................................................................69

Notes on Use....... ......................................................83

Resources..................................................................88

Index ...........................................................91

Welcome

Thank you for purchasing your Sony VAIO® computer! Your new computer is a superb blend of high technol ogy and easy-to-use functionality. The information provided here is designed to help you to become familiar with the hardwar e and software applications included with your system.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Locating Controls And Connectors

Front Panel Ove r view

The front panel of your VAIO Computer allows access to the optical and floppy disk drives. It also includes Universal Serial Bus (USB) and i.LINK® ports to connect compatible peripheral devi ces.

✍ i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used on ly to designate that a product contains an

IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK conne ction may vary, depen ding on the soft ware 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 comp atible i.LINK device for information on operating conditions and prope r connection. Before connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as an optical or hard disk drive, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Front panel

✍ Yo ur computer ma y not be supplie d with all of the fea tures listed, depending on the

system configuration you purchased.

1 Optical drive 1

See Specifications sheet for optical drive information.

2 Optical drive 2

See Specifications sheet for optical drive information.

3 Floppy disk drive

Reads and writes data f r om and to a 3.5-inch floppy disk.

Locating Contr ols And Connectors

4 Floppy disk drive access indicator light

Lights in green while reading and writing data fr om and to a floppy disk.

5 Optical drive access indicator light

Lights in amber while readi ng and writing data from and to the opt ical drives.

6 Hard disk drive access indicator light

Lights in amber while readi ng and writing data from and to the hard disk.

7 Power switch and indicator light

Turn s the comp uter on/of f. The indi cato r ligh t is blue whil e the power is on and amber when the computer is in Stand by mode.

8 i.LINK 4-pin port (IEEE1394)

Connection for a co mpatible digita l device.

9 Optical drive 1 eject button

Ejects a disc fr o m O p ti cal drive 1.

10 Optical drive 2 eject button

Ejects a disc fr o m O p ti cal drive 2.

1 1 Memory Sti ck® sl ot (Not available on all models)

Reads and writes data from and to a Memory Stick me dia.

12 Floppy disk eject button

Ejects a floppy disk .

13 Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports (2)

Connections for compatible USB devic es .

✍ For you r convenien ce, your computer includes USB and i.LINK ports on both the front

and back pan els. The 4-pin i. LINK port is located on the front panel and the 6 -pin i.LINK port is locat ed on the back.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Back Panel Overview

The back panel of your computer contains the ports for su pplied and optional accessories. T he icons on the back panel locat e and i dentify the ports and jacks on your computer.

✍ Yo ur computer ma y not be supplie d with all of the fea tures listed, depending on the

system configuration you purchased.

Back panel

KEYBOARD

MOUSE

USB NETWORK

ACT

LINK

PRINTER

1Mouse port

Connection for a PS/2® mouse.

2 Keyboard port

Connection for a PS/2 Keyb oard.

i.LINK S400

HEADPHONES

LINE IN

MIC

SERIAL

MONITOR

LINE

TELEPHONE

3 Ethernet port

10BASE-T/100BASE-TX Fas t Ether n et inte rface . (The port marked with (Network) is for LAN connections only.)

4 Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports (2)

Connection for co mpatible USB devices.

5 Printer port

Connection for a paral lel device, such as a printer or scanner.

6 i.LINK 6-pin port (IEEE1394)

Connection for a compa tible digital device.

7Serial port

Connection for a compatible serial device.

8 Headphones jack

Connection for the supplied speakers or optional headphones.

9Line In jack

Connection for an audio device.

10 Microphone jack

Connection for a micr ophone (optional).

11 Monitor port

Connection for a standard display.

12 Modem line jack

Connection for the supplied modem cable to the wall jack.

13 AC Input port

Connection for the supplied power cord.

14 Telephone jack

Connection for a pho ne cable (optional) to th e computer.

Locating Contr ols And Connectors

✍ i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used on ly to designate that a product contains an

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

VAIO A c ti o n S e tu p

VAIO Action Setup manages the sett ings for your computer’s Shortcut keys (S Keys).

Shortcut Keys

The programmable S Keys are li nked with the followin g applications as their default settings:

❑ S1 — Outlook® Express ❑ S2 — Internet Explorer ❑ S3 — SonicStage ❑ S4 — PictureGear™ ❑ S5 — MovieShaker™ ❑ S6 — Help/Demo

You can reprogram the S keys to launch other applications.

✍ i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used on ly to designate that a product contains an

Please refer to the documentation that came with your comp atible i.LINK device for information on operating conditions and prope r connection. Before connecting compatible i.LINK PC peripherals to your system, such as an optical or ha rd disk drive, confirm their operati ng system compatibility and required opera ting conditions.

Changin g th e settings of the S keys

1 Click St art in the Windows taskbar and select All P r ograms. 2 Select VAIO Action Setup, then click VAIO Action Setup.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

✍ You can also doub le-click the VAI O A ction Setup i con, located in the Windows

taskbar, to launch VAIO Action Setup.

3 Click the S Key you want to change. 4 From the Select Application dialog box, click the option for the de sired type

of function. The corresponding applications appear in the list box on the right.

✍ You can drag an application to place it into the list box.

5 The Confirmation Application Name window appears. Click Next. 6 You can type a new name and de sc ription, if desire d. Click Finish.

To Change the Sony Software Window Design

You can select from different window designs for your Sony softwa re and create your own personal computing environment.

Changing the window design

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select the Control Panel. 2 Click Other Control Panel Options. 3 Click UI Design Selector. 4 Click << or >> and select the desired design. 5 Click Apply. 6 The “UI Design Selector” window design changes. The window design for

your Sony software matches the “UI Design Selector” window.

7 To try another sele ction, click << or >>, then click Apply. 8 When you have made your selection, click OK. The UI Design Selector

closes and the Sony software window design displays.

✍ You may only use this feature with compatible UI Design Sel ector software.

VAIO AV Applications

Your VAIO® computer has a preinstalled collection of audio and video (AV) applications that make it easy to use advanced multimedia technology. This section describes the VAIO A V applications.

✍ Yo ur computer may not be supplie d with all of the software applications listed,

depending on the system configurat ion you purchased. Your computer ’s visual presentation of the VAIO AV applicat ions may not appear

exactly as shown in this section, dep ending on the spec ific computer model you purchased.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Overview of Preinstalled Software

DigitalPrint

Sony Electronics Inc.

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

DVgate™

Sony Electronics Inc.

Connect a digital video camera recorder to the i.LI NK® port and capture your own video clips and st ill images. You can edit clips from your video, add new clips, and comb ine clips into new movie segments. You can also sav e your images in a variety of popu lar file formats.

Media Bar® DVD Player

Sony Electronics Inc.

Media Bar DVD Player is created especially for high-qua lity DVD playback. You can enjoy the superior digital video quality and the effects features. You can rewind or fast-forward sce nes from the DVD Player monitor as you would with any ordinary DVD player, to easily find the scene you want to view. Typical DVD playback features are available, suc h as multiple angles, audio language tracks, and subtitles. Media Bar DVD Player seaml essly integrates a pre mi um audio/visual experience with an easy-to-use software interface.

MovieShaker™

Sony Electronics Inc.

Sony’s original MovieShaker software creates personal movies that have transitio ns, ba ckground m usic, an d text. Just import your video cli ps and “sh ake” with a click of the mouse. Your personal movies are easy to create and fun to share with family and friends.

PictureGear™

Sony Electronics Inc.

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

camera . Th e images ap pe ar in a

Overview of Preinstalled Software

Smart Capture

Sony Electronics Inc.

Smart Capture is a fun new way to send multimedia message s vi a e-mail. Smart Capture manages the i.LINK® connection between your notebook and a Sony Digital Handy cam® Camcorder that supports the i.LINK interface. It allows you to capture comp ressed video or s till images and save t hem t o your hard di sk dri ve or share via e-mai l. A smart solution for computer, digital audio/video and network convergence.

SonicStage™ (On selected models)

Sony Electronics Inc.

This new jukebox application adds a host of new features to its predecessor, OpenMG™ Jukebox. Continuing to take advantage of Sony’s copyrightprotected ATRAC3™ format for high-quality dig ital audio storage , SonicStage sports a new music visua lizer, a sleek new player skin design, audio CD burning capability, and a parametric equalizer for fine-tunin g audio playback.

SonicStage™ Premium (On selected models)

Sony Electronics Inc.

SonicStage Premium is a specia l jukebox applic ation that supports high quality digital a udio playback and recording from the NetMD, FM Tuner, and DVD-RW devices in your VAIO MX Desktop PC. Recording from external analog and digital audio devices, such as CD players and MiniDisc players, is also supported. SonicStage Premium includes several standard jukebox features, including a music visualizer, audio CD burnin g capability, and a param etric equalizer for fine-tuning audio playback.

VisualFlow™

Sony Electronics Inc.

V is ualFlow software is a state-of-the-art Sony multimedia browser designed specifically for Memory Stick® media. It displays any sti ll picture, movie or sound file stored in a Memory St ic k media in a visuall y pleasing , art isti c manner. VisualFlow software not only plays a selected movie or sound file, but also enables playback of files by other applications like PictureGear™ soft ware or Memor y Stick Slideshow.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

DigitalPrint Software

DigitalPr int is designed to creatively manage your digital pictures. With its easy-to-use feat ures, you can quickly load images from your digital camera or camcorder, print high-quality photos, and make personalized photo albums and labels to shar e with friends and family.

DigitalPrint main windo w

Using PhotoCapture

Capture and import your digital pictures from your digital camera or camcorder into your computer. You can select your favorite pictures and place them in handy folders for future use .

1 Click (Import) to open the PhotoCapture window. Your connected

digital camera, camcorder, or Memory Stick® media is indicated in the window.

✍ Properly connect your digital cam era, camcorder, or insert your Memory Stick media

in your computer.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

PhotoCapture window

2 Click the camera icon to open the Enter Photo Fold er Name dialog bo x. You

can enter a name for a new folder or click Select Ph oto Fol der to import your pictures to an existing folder. Click OK.

Enter Photo Folder Name dialog box

DigitalPrint Software

3 Click Capture to capture still images. You can preview a thumbnail version

of your pictures in the selection view window.

Capture Pictures from Video window

4 Select the desir ed pictur es, and click Get Pictu res. The PhotoCap ture pict ure

editor window appea rs.

5 Click View to see an enlarged version of a selected picture. You can use

(Rotate) to change the position of a selected picture. Cli ck Delete to

eliminate an y unwanted pictures.

PhotoCapture editing window

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Using PhotoCollection

You can select and print your favorite digital pictures, using your computer and home printer.

1 Click (Photo) to open the PhotoCollection window. A list of folders is

displayed on the left side of the window, with the folder contents dis p layed as thumbnail pictures on the right.

PhotoCollection window

2 Select the desired folder. From the thumbnail view, cl ick to sele ct the

pictures you want to print.

3 Click Photo Print at the top of the window. Select the number of prints you

want to make, using the scroll ar r o ws. Click OK.

4 Select the paper, based on the picture positioni ng des ired. A layout preview

is displayed on the left side of the window.

5 Use the configurat ion butto ns and drop-down li sts to selec t the print er and to

set margins.

DigitalPrint Software

Printer and Paper selection window

6 Click Print All to print all pages, or clic k “Pr int the selected page only” to

print a specific page of photos.

Using PhotoDecor

You can decorat e your favorite photos with cl ip art, s tamps, or your own dra wing talent. Add, remove, and change your designs to creat e your own unique photo art.

1 Click (Edit) to open the P hotoDecor - New Photo Decor window. A list

of folders i s dis play ed on th e l eft s ide of the window, with the fol der con tents displayed as thumbnail pictures on the right.

PhotoDecor-New PhotoDecor window

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

2 Select the desired folder. From the thumbnail view, cl ick to sele ct the

pictures you want to de cora te. The PhotoDecor editing window appears.

3 Use the decoration features on the right side of the window by clicking on

the desired decoration icon, and then dragging the decoration ont o your photo.

4 Click Print when your photo is ready to be printed. You can save your

decorated pictures before printing. Name the new picture, and click Save.

✍ The defau lt locatio n for your saved decorated pictures is in the Deco rated Phot os

folder, whi ch can be viewed from the PhotoDecor - New PhotoDecor window.

Using PhotoAlbum

Capture your spe cial photos in an organized photo album. You can share your custom-made photo album s with friends and family.

1 Click (Album) to open the PhotoAlbum - New Album window.

PhotoAlbum - New Album window

✍ If you wish to work on a previously created album , do not click Create New Album.

Instead, select the desired album from the Al bum Collecti on view on the right side of the window.

DigitalPrint Software

2 Click Create New Album. The Select Photo window appears. 3 Select the photos you want to include in your album from the available

folders displayed. Click List to select individual pictures from each folder. The Select Design window appea rs.

4 Select a des ign template for your album. Use th e scroll bar to se e all

available des igns. When you have selected the design, the Select Layout window appears.

5 Select a page layout for your album. A preview of your selected design and

page layout is displayed. Scroll through the album using the book icons at the bottom of the window.

6 Click Page List to edit your album. Customize your album by adding more

pictures, decorations, comments , or deleting pages.

7 You can save your al bum before printing by clicking Save. 8 Click Print. Select an album type , and click Print again.

✍ For information on stitching your album, click Stitch Album. See the online Help file

for more det ai ls .

Using LabelMaker

Use LabelMaker to design original labels to personalize your medi a, suc h as Memory Stick® media, CDs, or video cassettes.

1 Click (Label) to open the Label - New Label window.

Label - New Label window

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

2 Click an icon to select a media type. A new window opens. 3 Click the paper layout icon. The Select Design window appears. 4 Select a design template. Use the decorat ion and customization features on

the right by clicking an icon and dragging it onto your template.

✍ A new window appea rs , enabl ing yo u to list the con ten ts of y our audio or video medi a.

You can create a song or video list, depending on the type of media label being created.

Design Edit window

5 Click Print to complete the label making process. Use the configuration

buttons and drop-down lists to select the printer and to set margins.

✍ See the online Help for detailed information on using DigitalPrint software.

DVgate Software

Connecting a digital video camcorder

Turn of f the power to your digital video camcorder before connecting it to your computer. After conne cting the device, turn its power back on. You do not need to turn off the computer when connecting the camcorder.

T o use DVgate™ software with a digital video camcorder

❑ Do not use DVgate™ software when the connected digital video device is in

Timer Recording mode, as this may produce a malfunction in the device.

❑ Video captures larger than 2 GB (9 minutes and 30 seconds) are

automatically continue d in a s econd file.

❑ You c an record stereo audio (stereo 1) while capturing video, or you can add

audio on the stereo 2 track after capturing the video data.

❑ You cannot use different audio modes on the same tape. Perform a separate

capture for each audio mode you wis h to us e.

❑ DVgate software does not support hard disk compression. Do not use disk

compression if you are planning to work with DVgate software.

❑ Title data is saved in the flash memory of a digital video camera and is not

transferred to ta pe by DVgate s oftware.

❑ Disable your screen saver program to avoid i nterruption during your capture

sessions.

❑ The drop frame compensation fe ature does not provide accurat e

compensation adjustments for tapes recorded in LP mode.

❑ The information displayed by the capture progress indicat or may not be

accurat e f o r ta p es th at are reco r de d usi n g a mi xt u r e of b oth SP an d LP modes.

❑ Keep the video head of your digital video device properly cleaned.

Anomalies tha t you see in ca ptur ed data may be due to dust or ot her partic les on the video head.

❑ The last frame captured is one frame before your selected [OUT] point. The

frame you see immediately after clicking the [OUT ] button is not captured.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

To use DVgate software to record AVI files to tape

✍ You can record only AVI files. MPEG files cannot be recorded.

❑ Do not use DVgate™ software when the connecte d digita l video devi ce is in

Timer Recording mode, as this could produce a malfunction in the device.

❑ Avoid recording problems, such as a single frame app earing in multiple

frames, by closing other applications on your sys tem while recording.

❑ You cannot use m ultip le audio mode s on the same tap e. If yo u have AVI files

that use different audio modes, the files cannot be recorded at the same time, but must be recorded separately.

❑ The DVgate software does not support AVI files that are smaller than 4 MB. ❑ The DVgate software does not support hard disk compression. ❑ To maximize recordi ng capabilities , video and audio data are not available

while you are recording.

❑ If the DVgate soft ware in dicat es t hat fra mes a re droppe d, tr y c losin g a ll ope n

applications or defragmenting your hard drive.

MovieShaker Software

MovieShaker™ software can be used to create fun and innovative movies without any previous knowledge of film editing. In a few simple steps, video files can be ma de fr om still imag es wit h added spe cial effe cts and music . You can save your personal video creation in a format that is compatible with m ost computers.

MovieShake r mai n w indow

Workin g pa nel

Shake

tab/tray

Import clip tray

Capture tab/tray

Edit

tab/tray

Effect tray

Story Board tray

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Creating movies with MovieShaker software

Using your imported clips, you c an c r eate a short movi e us ing the Shake feature. The Shake feature selects clips from the Story Board tray, adds effects, and combines them ra ndomly in to a 30-sec ond movie . After yo u “Shake” your video, you can edit it by adding effects and text, by a djusting the color and contrast, and by modifying its length.

Importing images and sound clips

1 Click Import. The Import file browser window appears. 2 Find the clips you want to add. 3 Click th e cl ip s . T h e files are added to th e I m p o r t cl ip tr ay. 4 Repeat this process to gather each of the images and video and sound clips

you want to use in your movie.

✍ You can delet e a clip from the Import clip tray by drag ging the clip’s icon to the trash

icon located on the Edit tray of the working panel.

Importin g image or sound files t hat are over 30 seconds in length m ay cause the MovieShaker software to stop responding.

MovieShaker Software

Using the Shake feature

1 Click the Shake tab. The Shake tray appears 2 Select a mood by clicking a face in the Shake pattern tray.

Shake tray

Shake tab

Shake! button

Playback

buttons

Shake

pattern tray

3 Click the Shake! button. A 30-second movie is automatically generated. 4 Optional: Add text to your new movie by clicking on the Input button. 5 To preview, rewind, or fast forward your movie, use the Playback buttons.

✍ Scenes cr eated with the Shake feature begin with a black screen in the Shake tray

window. Your scenes appear during movie playback. You can improve the image quality prod uced by the Sha ke feature (at the cost of

longer Shake times) by turning off the “Shorten the Shake time” feature in the General panel of the Setting dial og box. See the “Menu reference” sectio n of th e online He lp file for det ails.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Adding effect s to a scene or a clip

1 Double-clic k or dr ag the d esired clip or scene to move it to the Story Board

tray.

2 Click the Ef fect button on the Effect tray.

Effect tray w indow (Effect button selected)

Effect button

Effect icons

Additional effects

3 Drag the Effect icon you want to add from the Effect tr ay to the Effect

palette on the Edit tray.

4 Click the Play button on the Edit tr ay to preview the effect. The added effect

previews on the clip displayed in the Effect tray window.

✍ A preview of the added effect is displayed in the Effect tray window. You can eliminate

an effect by dragging it fr om the Effect palette to the trash icon on the Edit tray. See the online Help file for more information on adjusting effect duration and replaying clips an d scenes.

MovieShaker Software

Adding text effects to a scene or clip

1 Double-click or drag the clip or scene to move it to the Story Board tray. 2 Click the Text button on the Editing tray.

Effects Tra y (Text button selected )

3 Click the Text Setting button to create customized text. The Text Setting

dialog box appear s . Enter your text, and sele ct the font, size, color, and positioning for your text.

4 Drag the Text effect icon you want to add from the Effect tray to the Effect

palette on the Edit tray.

5 Click the Pl ay button on the Edit tray to preview the text effect. The clip

displays the te xt effect in the Ef fect tray window.

✍ A preview of th e added text and t ext effect is displayed in the Effects tr ay window.

From the Edit tray, you can elimin ate a text effect by draggi ng it fr om the Effect palette to the tr ash icon. See the online Help file for more information on adjusting Te xt effects.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Saving a movie

1 Verify that the movie or clips you want to save are located on the S tory

Board tray.

2 Click the Export button on the Story Board tray. 3 Select the format in which you want the movie to be saved.

✍ You can click o n each export format to view its description and use.

Export window

4 Click Next. 5 Confirm that you want to continue. 6 Locate the folder to which you want to save the file, name your file, and

click Save.

✍ The time re quired to export your movi e file may vary, depen ding on the format

selecte d. Se e the on li n e Help file fo r m or e in fo rmation on expo r tin g a mov ie .

MovieShaker Software

Using ImageStation online service with MovieShaker software

ImageStationSM is an online servic e that allows you to store your pictures and movies o n the In ter ne t to share with fa mily an d fri end s. Imag eS ta tio n requ ire s an Internet connection and registration for the Web-based service . You must be connected to the Internet before uploading your pictures or movies using MovieShaker and ImageStation applications.

To upload MovieShaker files

1 Locate the cli ps or video files that you want to upload to the ImageStation

service, and import the m to the Import Clip tr ay.

2 Drag the desired clips or video files to the Story Board tray. 3 Click the Export button. The Export window appears. 4 Select “MPEG1 (ImageStation)” and click Next.

✍ The MovieShaker applicatio n creates a temporary file to store your images prior to

uploading to ImageStation. This file is deleted after the upload process.

5 If you are a registered member, provide your login name and password.

For first-time users, click “Register to ImageStation.” The ImageStation registration wizard appears and guides you through the initial registration process. Follow the on-screen instructions.

ImageStation Login window

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

6 When the ImageStation application on your co mputer connects with

ImageStation online, your files are uploaded to the Web site. The Image Uploader window appe ars and displays the Internet connection and upload status.

Image Uploader window

7 Go to http://www.imagestation.com to view your uploaded pictures or

movies. Follow the on-screen instruc tions to access your ImageStation account.

✍ The ImageSt ation Web site may ask you to complete a fu ll login again if your curr ent

session is not acti ve.

PictureGear Software

PictureGear™ software is a digital image management application that allows you to view all the images stored in any directory on your computer. Thumbnail views provide quick reminders of your pictures. Use PictureGear software to brighten, add contrast, enhance, resize, crop, and color-correct your pictures. Create animat ions, screen savers , wal lpaper, still pictures fr om MPEG, and HTML photo albums.

PictureGear mai n w indow

Managing your pictures

Use the Collecti on fea ture to manage your pictures.

1 From the Collection menu, click Create New Collection. 2 Enter a name for your collection, then click OK. 3 Click the Folder tab in the mai n window, and browse to locate your pict ures. 4 Select the pic tures you want to include in your collection. 5 From the Collection menu, click Add File to Collection. 6 In the Add File to My Collection message box, select the name of your

collection, and click OK.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Creating a photo album

1 Click the Folder tab in the main window and browse to locate your pictures. 2 Select the pictures you want to include in your album.

PIctureGear Album Maker window

3 From the Utilities menu, select Album Maker. 4 Choose a Design template for your album. 5 Click the “Make soon” button to create your album immediately, using the

PictureGear de fault settings.

PictureGear Software

6 Click the “Custom iz e the desig n” button to add pictures, frames, text, and

effects.

Custom Album window

✍ If you select the Custom Album process, the final album is created when you click the

Finish button in the last dialog box.

Custom album “Completed” window

7 Click Save to designate the location where you want to save your album. 8 Enter a nam e for the target fo ld er and click OK. 9 The Pic t u reGear ™ Custom Album featur e cr eates the new folder in the

designated location.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Smart Capture

Smart Capture is a Sony application that manages the i.LINK ® connec tion between your compute r and a compatible i.LINK dig ital camera or camcorder. You can capt ure a nd enhance video or still im ages to share with your family and friends over the Internet or through e-mail.

✍ i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate t h at a product contains an

IEEE1394 connection. The i.LINK conne ction may vary, depending on the software applications, operating syst em and compati ble i.LINK devices. All products with an i.LINK connection may not com m unicate with each other.

Please refer to the documentation that came with your compatible i.LINK device for informa tion on operating condi tions and prope r connection. Before co nnecting compati ble i.LINK PC peripherals to your system , such as an opti cal disc dr ive or hard disk drive, confir m their operating syste m co m patibility and required operati ng conditions.

Smart Capture main window

Smart Capture

1 Mode indicator

Displays the current mode (Still or Net Movie).

2 Mode dial

Switches Smart Capture from Still mode to Net Movie mode with a single click of your mouse.

4 Help button

Connects you directly to the online Smart Capture Help.

5 Capture button

Captures your in dividual still images in the same manner as a camer a. You can select di ffer en t characterist ics for the Capture button when capturing a Net Movie.

3 Options button

Displays th e configuration options availa b l e fo r e i th er Still or Net Movie mode.

6 Image window

Displays the still or vide o image from your digital camera or camcorder.

Effects button

Displays the spe cial eff ects tha t you can apply to your pic tures or video clips.

The Smart C apture main window opens with a blue screen im age, indicating that there is no data input from a digital camera or camcorder. When you connect your digital ca mera or camc order to your s ystem wi th an i.LINK ca ble and tu rn it on, an image ap pears in the mai n wind ow . Some c ameras and camco rders n eed to have a recording media inserted before an image can be displayed in the Smart Capture window. Consult the man ual supplied with your digital camera or camcorder for more information.

Using Still Mode

1 Click Start in the Windows® taskbar and click All Programs. 2 Select Smar t Captur e a nd th en cli ck Smart Ca pture. The Sma rt Capt ure ma in

window appears.

3 Connect your compatible i.LINK digital camera or camcorder to your

computer with an i.LINK cable (optional). An image appears in the Smart Capture main window.

4 Check tha t the Mode dial is set to Still. Click the Mode dial to switch

between Still mode and Net Movie mode.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

5 Click the Options button to view the available options for your still image

capture. The Still Image Options window appears.

Still Image Options window

The Still Im age Options window has four tabs:

❑ Capturing Mode — You can choose between Normal, Self-timer, or

Panorama Capture modes.

❑ Image S i ze — Select the image size, horizontal by vertical, in pixels. ❑ Image Quality — Set the quali ty of your pictures as they are being

saved by selecting Fine, Standard, or Economy image quality.

❑ Destination — Select a file des tination for your pictures.

6 Click the Effect s button to select a sp ecial image effe ct. The Effect Settings

window appears. Us e the drop -down lis t to view a nd cust omize the avail able effects.

✍ You can use a diff erent special effect for each picture, or you can remove all special

effects by clicking the No Effects button.

Effect Settings window

Smart Capture

To capture a picture in Still mode

1 Use your digital came ra or camcorder to locate the image you want to

capture. When you s ee t he desire d ima ge in t he Smart Capture wind ow , clic k the Capture button. The Still Viewe r window appears. You can capture one picture or several pictures at a time.

Still Viewer window

2 Click the arrows or drag the scroll bar to view the pictures. As each image is

captured, it appears in the Still Viewer window with a text balloon to add your comments and an identifying number in the viewer queue.

To manage pictures in Still mode

From the Still Viewer window, you can perform various functions using the task buttons:

❑ Delete — Discard any or all of your still images by clicking the Delete

button . S elect a sing le image or all and the im ag e(s) is “torn” and removed from the Still Viewer window.

❑ Upload — Send your still images online to the ImageStation Web site to

share with your family and fri ends. The ImageStation service stores your still images onl ine when you become a registered user. See “Using ImageStation with Smart Capture software.”

❑ Mail — E-mail your still images to your family an d f r iends. Click the Mail

button and your e-ma il application launches with a new message win dow containing the still image as an attachment.

❑ Save — Click the Save button to save your still image in a variety of

formats, to a location of your choice.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

✍ You must be connected to the Internet before attempting to upload or e-mail your still

images or videos.

Using Net Movie Mode

1 From the Start button in the Windows taskbar, select All Programs, select

Smart Capture, and then click Smart Capture. The Smart Ca pture main window appears.

2 Connect your compatible i.LINK digital camcorder to your computer with

an i.LINK cable (optional). An image appears in the Smart Capture main window.

3 Verify that the Mode dial is set to Net Movi e. Click the Mode dial to switch

between Still mode and Net Movie mode.

4 Click the Options button to view the available options for your movie

capture. The Recording Options window appears.

Recording Options window

Format tab view

Capture Button tab view

The Recording Options window has three tabs:

❑ Format — You can adjust the compression rate for your movies in

MPEG1 format or choose the AVI option for no compression. You can also set the maximum recording time for your movie capture.

Smart Capture

❑ Destination — Select a fi le desti na tion for y our movie s when recordi ng

video clips.

❑ Capture Button — Set the characteristics of the software’s on-screen

Capture butt on. You can start and stop reco rding by cl icking the Captur e button (this is the default characteristic). You can select Anti-Ground Shooting, whi ch al lows recording to occur only while you click and hold the Capture button. Recording wil l s top when you release the button.

5 Click the Effects button to select a special image effect. The Ef fect Settings

window appears. Use t he drop-down l ist to view and cu stomize the ava ilabl e effects.

✍ You can remove all specia l effects by clicking the No Effects button.

T o capture a movie in Net Movi e mode

1 Use your digital camcorder to locate the view(s) you want to capture. When

you see the desired view in either the Smart Capture window or your camcorder’s viewfinder, click the Capt ure button to begin recording your movie. The Movie Player window appears.

2 Click the Capture button when you have finished recording your movie and

the first frame of your movie appears in the Movie Player window. You can record a movie for approximate ly 30 seconds. The Movie Player feature automatically stops recording when this time limit is reached.

Movie Player window

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

3 You can review your movie from the Movie Player window by using the

play, pause, and st op buttons. Click the arrows or drag the scroll bar to view your movie. Each frame is disp layed with an identifyi ng num ber in the queue.

✍ If you have set the Captur e button to use th e Anti-Ground setting, you must click and

hold the Capture button to record your movie.

To manage your movie in Net Movie mode

From the Movie Player window, you can perform various functions using the task buttons:

❑ Delete — Discard any frame or the enti re movie by clicking the Delete

button. The frame or movie is removed from the Movie Player window.

❑ Upload — Send your movies online to the ImageStation Web site to shar e

with your family and friends. The ImageStati on service stores your movies online when you become a regi stered user. See “Using ImageStation with Smart Capture software.”

❑ Mail — E-mail your movie s to famil y and fr ie nds. C lick t he Mai l bu tton a nd

your e-mail applic ation la unches wit h a new me ssage window cont ainin g the movie as an attachment.

❑ Save — Click the Save button to compress and save your movie in a var iety

of formats, to a locati on of your choice.

Using ImageStation with Smart Capture software

ImageStationSM is an online service tha t allows you to store your pictures and movies on the Internet to share with family and friends. The ImageStation service requires an Internet co nnec tion and registration for the Web-based service. You must be connected to the Internet before uploading your pictures or movie s with Smart Capture and ImageStation applications.

Smart Capture

To upload with Movie Player

1 Click the Upload Button in Movie Player to begin transfer of your movie to

the Imag eStation Web site. Th e Image Upl o ader window appears and displays the Int ernet connection and upload status.

Image Uploader window

2 Click to see thumbnail previews of your pictures or movies.

✍ The ImageStation preview feature is available when you upload two or more pictures

or a movie. No preview is shown if a single pict ure is being uploaded.

To upload with Still Viewer

1 Click the Upload button in Still Vie w er. The ImageStation Login window

appears.

ImageStation Login window

2 For first-time u sers , the I mageSta ti on regist rat ion wizard gui des yo u thro ugh

the initial registration process. Follow the on-screen instructions. If you are already a registere d memb er, provide your login name and password. The Image Uploader window appear s .

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

3 From the Still Viewer window, click the Upload button to transfer your

pictu res or movi es to the Im ag eStation Web site. Th e I mage Uploader window displays your Internet connection and upload status. Click to see thumbnail previews of your pictures or movies.

✍ The ImageStation preview feature is available when you upload two or mor e pictures

or a movi e . No previe w i s sh o w n i f a si ngle picture is being uplo a ded.

4 Go to http://www.imagestation.com to view your uploaded pictures or

movies. Follow the on-screen instruc tions to access your ImageStation account. The Image Station Web sit e may ask you to complete a full login again, if your current session is not active.

✍ Sony reco mmends tha t your movi e fil e s ize no t ex ce ed 254 M B if comp re sse d, or 2 GB

if not compressed. Large movie files tak e longer to upload to the Im ageStation Web site.

SonicStage Software

SonicStage Softw are

SonicSta ge s oftware is a new juk ebox appli catio n th at ad ds a h ost of new featur es to its p redecessor, OpenMG™ Jukebox. SonicStage software lets you pla y and record from audio CDs an d i mport digi tal audio f ile s whi le m ainta ini ng copyr ight information . Continuing to take adva ntage of Sony’s copyright-protected ATRA C3™ format for high-quality digital audio storage, SonicStage sports a new music visualizer, a sleek new player skin desig n, audio CD burning capability, and a parametric equalizer for fine-tunin g audio playback.

Electronic M u si c Distribution (EMD) Services

EMD enables you to download music files vi a the Inter net. To use Intern et services that are compatible with SonicStage , you need:

❑ Access to the Internet from your computer. Sign up with an Internet Service

Provider (ISP) and configure your computer for Internet access before using EMD service s .

❑ An EMD service provider. Consult the provider for service information.

✍ T o protect your personal data, Sony uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), an encryption

protocol for communication between your browser and Sony’s World Wi de Web (WWW) server . If you are accessing the Internet from an enterprise Lo cal Area Network (LAN), you may not be able to use SSL due to the proxy server of the LAN. Contact your network adm inistrator for more information.

Starting SonicStage

1 Click St art in the Windows taskbar and then click All Programs. 2 Select SonicStage and then click SonicStage.

✍ The CDDB® (Compact Disc Database) Music Recognition Service registration wizard

enable s you to register with CD DB. Yo u need Internet access from your computer to register and use this servi ce. For mor e information regarding CDDB registration, c lick the Help butt on.

3 When you have registered with CDDB, the “Confirm the setup of

SonicStage...” dialog box appea r s.

4 Click Yes to continue.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

SonicStage feature tabs (Main window)

❑ CD tab — The contents of your inserted audio CD are displayed,

enabling funct io n s such as recording to the computer’s hard disk drive.

❑ Import tab — Import MP3, WAV or audio files on your computer to

a Playli s t .

❑ Playlist tab — View the available Playlists as “tre e + list” or “list”

only.

❑ Transfer tab — View the a vaila ble P layli sts on your comput er. You

can transfer the audio files to an external device or media.

❑ Device/Media tab — View the status of your audio files,

connected external device, or inserted media.

❑ Internet tab — The browser view displays your connection to the

Internet, enabling you to locate audi o files and use EMD services.

SonicStage main window

Playlist view

5 6

SonicStage Software

1Feature tabs

Changes the screen view according to the s e lected feature.

2 Playe r co nt ro l b ut t o n s

Controls playback functions , s uch as play, pause, stop, fast forward, and reverse. You can increase or decrease volume and switch view modes.

3 Playlist d rop-down list

(Playlist view)

Displays available playlists and audio files.

4 File tree view (Playlist view)

Displays the folders available on your computer, enabling you to locate your audio files. Expand the views for the file list or Playlist drop-down using the Pla ylist switc h

button.

5Tutorial

Click to open or close the Tutorial feature.

6 Internet address drop-down list

Displays current and recently visited Internet addresses. Click the “Go to URL link” button to immediately connect to your favorite Web sites.

7 File list view (Playlist view)

Display s the contents of the folder selected in the file tree view.

Recording from a CD

You can record songs from audio CDs and import them to pla ylists in SonicStage.

✍ When you record from an audio CD from you r optical disc drive for the first time, the

“CD Drive Optimizati on” dialog box ap pears. Clic k Start to verify your opt ical disc drive. After the verification is performed, recordin g begins.

1 Insert an audio CD into your system’s optical disc drive. 2 Click the CD tab. 3 Use the dro p-down lis ts to se lect the ATRAC3 bit rate, CD drive, and Re cord

To destinatio n.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

CD tab window

4 You can identify specific tracks on your CD by clearing the check marks

from the tracks you don’t want to recor d. You can clear all se le cted tr ac ks by selecting t he empty c heckbox ne xt t o Sele ct All , and the n se le cting the trac ks you want to record.

If your Internet conne ction is active, you can us e the CD Info button to view the name of your CD and its song titles.

✍ The CD Info button feature is not supported for all audio CDs.

5 Click (Rec to Jukebox) to begin recording. When the recording is

finished, the ne w playlist appears in the File tree view of the Playl ist window.

Transferring songs (Check-In/Check-Ou t)

You can transfer songs between the playlists in the SonicStage software and external devices or media. For more information on using your external devices or media, see the instructions suppl ied with the device or media.

These instructions are for using the Check-In/Check-Out “1-step” method. For information on using another method, see “Changi ng the check-in/check-out settings” in the SonicStage online Help file.

SonicStage Software

Check-Out

1 Connect the external device or insert the media into your computer . 2 Click the Transfer tab to display the Transfer window. Your computer

automatically recognizes the connected external device or media and lists the content information in a new panel on the right side of the Tr ans fer window.

Transfer window

3 Select the Playlist that cont ains the song that you want to check out. The

songs in the playlist are shown in the Pl aylist view panel loc ated in the center of the Transfer windo w.

4 From the Playli st view pane l, s elect the so ng to be che cked ou t. To check out

more than one song at a time, hold down the Ctrl key and select the additional songs.

5 Click (Out), or drag the song to t he des ired posit ion in th e song l ist of t he

external device or media. Check Out begins.

✍ T o can cel Ch eck Out , clic k (Stop), or cli ck Cancel i n the Pr oc ess ing di alog box th at

is displayed during the Check Out process.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Check In

✍ The song s that you transfer to e xternal devices or media can only be checked in to the

hard drive of the same computer from which the songs were checked out.

1 Connect the external device or insert the media into your computer. 2 Click the T r ansfer tab to display the Tra nsfer window. Your computer

automatically recognizes the connected external device or media and lists the content information in a new panel on the right side of the Trans f er window.

3 Select the song to be checked in from the song lis t of the external device or

media. To check in more th an one son g at a time, hold down the Ctrl ke y and click the additional songs.

4 Click (In), or drag the s ong(s ) to the Playlist view pan el. If you want to

check in all of the songs in the external d ev ice or media, click (In All). Check In begins.

✍ To cancel Check In, click (Stop), or click Cancel i n the Processing dialog bo x that

is displayed during the Check Out process.

For more information ab out us ing SonicStage software, go to the online SonicStage Help. You can access the online help file as follows:

1 Click the Start button in the Windows taskbar, sel ect All Programs. 2 Select SonicStage, then select SonicStage Help.

SonicStage Software

Additional features

❑ SonicStage Tu torial — Son i cStage featu re s ar e d escribed in th e Tutor i al .

The user-friendly interface instructs you on how to use all Soni cStage features.

❑ SonicStage Backup Tool — You can back up and re store music, graphics,

and information data managed by SonicStage. You must be connected to the Internet to use the SonicStage Backup Tool.

❑ Import audio fil es in various formats — You can import audio files in

various formats, such as MP3 or WAV standards. You can also import a udio files th a t co m p l y wi th th e M ic r o s o f t® Windows Media™ Technologies (WMT) standard, identified by .asf or .wma extensions. Manage your audio files through the Playlist feature of SonicStage.

❑ Manage imported songs on the Playl ist — Additiona l f eatures ar e

available when you reg is ter your imported songs t hrough the Playlist feature of SonicStage. You can manage your mu si c by cre ating your own list of songs categori zed by genre or artist, dis playing your song list in the Playlist feature, and arranging your songs in a customized order using the Playlist folders. Edit your music by combining multiple songs into a single song, or divide one song into two, by using the Combine and Divide features.

❑ Simple mode — The main SonicStage windo w viewed in S imple mode , is a

smaller, compact vers ion of F ull mode. This may be convenient when you want to listen to music with Soni cStage software, while using other applicati ons, or whenever you feel the Full mode view is intrusive. The design of the main SonicStage window in si mple mode can be changed by selecting a ne w “Skin,” which enhances the window’s appearance. The Simple mode feature en ables you to perform playback operations only.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

VisualFlow Software

VisualFlow™ software is a Sony state-of-the-art multimedia browser designed specifically for Mem ory Stick® medi a. I t dis plays any still pict ure, movie or sound files stored in a Memory Stick media in a visually pleasing, artistic manner. VisualFlow software plays a selected movie or sound file and enables playback of files by other applications like PictureGear™, PictureToy™, and Memory Stick Sl id eshow.

Using VisualFlow software

You can navigate in the VisualFlo w application by using your mouse, the directional arrows on your keyboard, or the Sony Jog Dial ™ control (on those models that offer the Sony Jog Dial™ control).

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select All Programs. 2 Select Vi sualFlow, then click Visua lFlow.

VisualFlow main window

3 Click an icon in the View section on th e ma in toolbar to sele ct a display

layout.

Visu alFlow S oftwar e

4 Click an icon in the Sort section on the mai n toolbar to select a sort ing

method.

5 Placing your cursor on the left end of the main toolba r act ivates the current

Mem or y St ic k prope r ti e s.

6 Placing your curs or on the right end of the main toolbar activates a

secondary toolbar with more functions.

7 Click an image to sho w a n o r mal view centered o n t h e screen .

Double -clickin g an image shows an enl arg e d view.

8 The movie fil e starts playba ck when the vi ew is enla rg ed. Cl ick on the movie

files again to restore the view to normal.

✍ While an image is enlarge d, the Launch toolbar appears at the bottom of the window.

Any associated appli cation can be activated from this point.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Additional Softwa re Informatio n

VAIO Edit Components

VAIO ® Edit Components is a softwar e plug-in for Adobe® Premiere® that provides maximum compatibility and video quality for captur ing video from your Sony digital camcorder. If your VAIO computer does not have Adobe Premiere software preinstalled and you subsequently purchase this software, install th e VAIO Edit Component plug-in to ensure compatibility with Sony digital camcorders.

Installing VAIO Edit Co mpo nents

1 Insert the Driver Recovery CD into your optical drive. 2 Click S tart fr om the W indows® taskbar, select My Com puter, and clic k your

optical drive.

3 Select Support, and click VEC. 4 Double-click Setup. The VAIO Edit Components installation wizard starts. 5 Follo w th e on- s c r ee n in s t r u ct io n s in th e in s t al l ation wiza r d . 6 Restart your computer when prompted.

Configuring Your VAIO Computer

This section provides information about maintaining your computer’s hard dis k drive performance and connecting a compatible i.LINK® device.

Hard Disk Drive Partition

To maintain optimum system performance, you should defragment your computer’s D partition regularly.

To improve the performan ce of Sony audio and video software applications, the hard disk drive on your computer has been formatted with two partitions, C and D. Some Sony software applications save files to the D partition. This prevents large video captures from consuming the available space on your C partition.

Defragmenting your hard disk drive

If you encounter frame dropping while recording digital video onto your hard disk drive, defragmentation may be nece ssary.

1 Deactivate your scre en saver and clos e other open applicati ons, if app licab le. 2 Click St art in the Windows taskbar and select All P r ograms. 3 Point to Accesso r ie s , po int to System Tools, an d th en sele ct Di sk

Defragmenter. The Disk Defragment dia log box appears.

4 Select Action from the menu bar and click Analyze.

✍ It may take more than a couple of hours to complete defragmentation, depending on

the data capacity and cu rrent utilization of your computer ’s hard disk drive( s).

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

i.LINK (IEEE1394) Compatibility

Your VAIO computer may include either 4-pin or 6-pin, or both types, of i.LINK ports.

✍ i.LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate t h at a product contains an

Please refer to the documentation that came with your compatible i.LINK device for informa tion on operating condi tions and prope r connection. Before co nnecting compati ble i .L INK PC pe ri phe rals to you r syst em, su ch a s an opt i cal o r ha rd disk dri ve, confirm their operating system compatibility and required operating conditions.

A 6-pin i.LINK port can:

❑ supply power from the computer to the connected device if the device is

equipped with a 6-pi n conne ctor.

❑ supply 10V to 12V.

A 4-pin i.LINK port cannot su pply power to a connected device .

The total power supplied by the 6-pin i.LINK port cannot ex ceed 6 watts.

The following Sony i. LINK 400 Mbps cables a re ava ilabl e and rec ommended for use with your computer: VMC-IL4415, VMC-IL4435, VMC-IL4615, VMC-IL4635, VMC-IL6615 , and VMC-IL6635.

Sony compute r suppl ies , ac cessor ies, a nd periphe rals c an be purc hased f rom your local retailer, from the Sony VAIO Direct Web site at http://vaio.sonyst yle.com, or by calling 1-888-315-7669 (toll free).

i.LINK (IEEE1394) Compatibility

Connecting an i.LINK (IEEE1394) device

1 Use the symbol to locate the i.LI NK port on your compatible i.LINK

device and on your comput er. Plug the i.LINK ca ble con nector i nto t his port .

2 Plug the other end of the cabl e into the corresponding 4- or 6-pin i.LINK

port on your computer.

✍ See the in structions that came with your i.LINK device for more inform ation on

installation and use.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

System, Application, And Driver Recovery CD(s)

System Recovery CD(s)

Sony Electronics Inc.

The System Recovery CD utility enables you to restore the operating system and softwar e th at s hi pped wi th y our co mput er if th ey be co me co rru pte d o r a re e rase d. It can be used only to restore the hard disk of the Sony computer you purchased.

Application Recovery CD(s)

Sony Electronics Inc.

The Application Recovery CD program enables you to reinstall individual applications. Use it to restore corrupted or erased files.

Driver Recovery CD

Sony Electronics Inc.

The Driver Recovery CD program enables you to reinstall individ ual device drivers. Use it to rest o r e co rr up t ed or er ased files.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

To Use the System Recovery CD(s)

The System Recovery ut ility formats your hard dis k drive and restores all the original software applications. Your computer is returned to the original factory settings.

The System Recovery process re moves all software that you may have installed si nce you started using your com puter. Reinst all any applications that were not inc luded with the computer when you purchased it.

If you experience a problem with your computer, reinstalling an individual applicati on or device driver may correct the problem. You may not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive.

✍ Use the Application Rec o very CD(s) to reinstall individual applicat ions.

When you successfully complete your system recovery, you are prompted to complete the Windows registration process.

System Recovery Options

System Drive Recovery

All data on Drive C is delete d. T he fac tory default settings and software applications are restored on this drive onl y.

Change Partition Size

All partitions , custom installat ions, and changes are removed from the hard disk drive. You can set the partition sizes for both the Drive C and Drive D. The original, pre ins talled operating system and software applications are restored.

Recovery to Original Fac tory Defaults

All data and partitions are remove d from the hard disk drive. All origina l factory settings, operating system, and preinstalled softwa re is res tored.

The System Recovery utility does not back up your system's data. If you wish to retain your system data, perform a back up to an external media.

To Use the System Recovery CD(s)

Using the System Recovery CD(s )

Your system may take a few minutes to load necessary files. A blue screen appears during the downloading process.

1 Insert the System Rec overy CD in your computer’s optical drive.

The System Recovery utility starts from the optical drive. The first CD must be in the drive when you tu rn on your com puter.

✍ If your sys te m is e quippe d wi th two op tica l d rives , inser t t he Syst em Rec ove ry CD into

the upper optical drive.

2 Turn off your computer. 3 Wait 30 seconds and turn on your computer. Your scree n displays the

downloading progress, “Starting VAIO Recovery Utility.”

4 The VAIO System Recovery Utility dialog box appears. Click Next. 5 At the pop-up prompt, select Yes to begin the system recovery process.

Follow the on-screen ins tructions.

✍ Your system may include one or more System Recovery CDs. If you have more than

one System Recovery CD, insert the first CD to run the System Recovery program. You are prompted to insert the next CD(s) once the info rm ation from the first CD has been insta lle d .

The recovery process takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes to complete. After re cov er ing yo ur sys te m usin g th e Sy st em Re cov ery CD(s ), yo u may be pr ompt ed

to insert your Applic ation Recovery CD(s) after restar ting Windows. Use the Application Recovery CD (s) to complete full resto ration of your system.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

To Use the Application Recovery CD(s)

The Application Recovery CD utility enables you to reinstall individual software applic at io ns if they be co me corrupt ed or ar e er a sed . Reinsta l li ng an ind iv i du a l software applic ation may correct a problem that you are experiencing with your computer or specific application. You may not need to reinstall the entire contents of your hard drive.

✍ If you need to reinstall all of the software that shipped with your computer, use the

System Recovery CD(s).

You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CD utility. If you have any questions ab out using the Applicat ion Recovery CD(s), visit http://www.sony.com/pcsupport, or contact Sony Custom er S upport at 1-888-4-SONY-PC.

Using the Application Recovery CD(s)

1 Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, save and close all

open applicat ions.

2 When the Windows desktop appears, insert the Application Recovery CD

into your computer’s optical dr ive. The Applicati on Rec overy utility loa ds automatically.

✍ If your system is e quipped wit h two optical drives, insert th e Application Recovery CD

into the upper optical drive.

3 When the Application Recovery menu appears, fol low the on-screen

instr u ct io n s to co m p l ete the rec o ve r y proces s.

✍ Your system may include one or more Application Recovery CDs. If you have more

than one Application Recovery CD, insert the first CD to run the Application Recovery utility. You may be prompted to insert the next CD(s), depending on the software application you wish to restore.

To Use the Driver Recovery CD

The Driver Recovery CD uti lity enables you to reins tall individual drivers and repair software applications if they become corrupted or are erased. You can reinstall an individual driv er to correct a problem that you ar e exp eriencing with your computer, peripheral har dware , or s oftware application.

✍ If you need to reinstal l all of the so ftware app lications that shipped with your

computer, use the System Recovery CD(s).

You must be in Windows to run the Driv er Recovery CD utility.

Reinstal l ing d evi ce drivers with th e D r iver Recovery CD

1 Turn on your computer . If your computer is already on, close all

applications.

2 When the Windows d esktop appears, insert the Driver Rec overy CD into the

optical disc drive.

✍ If your system is equipped with two optical drives, inser t the Driver Recovery CD into

the upper optical drive.

3 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click Control Panel. The Control

Panel window appears.

4 Click Perfor ma nce and Maintenance and click System. The System

Propertie s di alog box appears.

5 From the Hardware tab, cl ick Device Manager. 6 Click to select the unknown device or the device that requires the driver

installation. The unknown device(s) is identified by a yellow question mark.

7 From the Acti on menu, click Un ins tall. This rem oves the device driver from

your system. Click OK. Repeat for each device driver as necessary.

8 Restart your computer. Click Start in the Windows taskbar, select Turn Off

Computer, and then click Restar t.

9 When the desktop appear s , Windows automatically reins talls the device

driver(s) from th e Drive r Recovery CD.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Troubleshooting

This section describe s how to solve common problems you may encount er when using your computer. Many problems have simple solutions, so try these suggestions bef ore you call Sony Customer Support.

Topics

My computer does not st art.

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

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

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

bootable floppy disk).

❑ Confirm that the power cord and all cables are connected firmly. ❑ If you plugged the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power

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

❑ Check that the monitor is plugged into a powe r s ource and turned on. Check

that th e b right n ess and con t r ast controls ar e ad juste d co rrectly. See the manual that came with your display for details.

❑ Check that the computer is not in sta nd by mode .

My files are corrupted or deleted. I want to recover applications that came wit h my computer.

See “To Use th e App lic at ion Re cove ry C D(s )” in the online User Guide, for more inform ation. You can access the online User Guide as follows:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click VAIO Help and Support. 2 From the VAIO Help and Support menu, click VAIO User Guide.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

My drivers are cor rupted or dele ted. I want to recover drivers that came with my computer.

See “T o Use the Driv er Recovery CD” in the online User Guide, for more information. You can access the online User Guide as foll ows:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click VAIO Help and Support. 2 From the VAIO Help and Support menu, click VAIO User Guide.

My computer or software application stopped responding.

You can try to locate and close the softwa re ap plication that has st opped responding.

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

appears.

2 From the Applica tions tab, loc ate th e appli cati on that ha s the stat us mes sage,

“Not responding.”

3 Select the application that has a Not Responding status and click End Task.

Windows attempts to close the application.

If your computer does not res pond or the application doe s not close, try the following steps:

1 Save any open fi les, if pos sible. 2 Press the Alt+F4 keys. The Turn Off Computer window appears. 3 Click the Restart button.

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

If the software a pplication continues to stop responding or causes your computer to stop re spondi ng, co ntact th e sof tware p ublis her or d esig nated te chnical su pport provider.

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

Troubleshooting

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

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

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

VA IO Help and Support dialog box appears.

2 Select Fixing a Problem and then select Startup and Shut Down prob lem s. A

list of specifi c problem topics appea rs on the right side of the dialog box.

3 Select Startup and Shutdown T r oubleshooter. Follow the on-screen

instructions according to your specific situation.

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

You can change the parallel port type using the System Setup utility (CMOS Setup Utility). T o ac cess System Setup:

1 Click St art in the Windows taskbar and select T urn Off Computer. Sel ect

Restart.

2 When the Sony screen displays, press the F2 key on your keyboa rd. 3 Select the Advanced tab from the Setup Utility screen. 4 Select “I/O Device Configuration” and press Enter. 5 Use the arrow keys to highlight Parallel Port Mode and press Enter.

✍ Yo u can toggle between the Normal (bi-directional), EPP, ECP, and ECP+EPP options

using th e directional arrow keys.

6 Select the desired setting displays, and press Enter. 7 Press the F10 key to Save and Exit.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

My optical drive tray does not open.

There are two methods for opening your optical drive tra y:

❑ Use the Eject button

1 Make sure the computer is turned on. 2 Press the Ejec t button on the drive.

❑ Use the My Co mputer icon

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select My Computer. 2 Right-click the appropriate optical drive icon. 3 Select Eject from the shor tcut menu.

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

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

I cannot play a DVD or CD.

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

before trying to access it.

❑ Verify that the disc is in the tra y with the label side facing u p. ❑ Install your CD or DVD software according to the manufacturer’s

instructions.

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

of the disc for dirt or scratches. You may also need to clean the disc drive lens wit h an ap p r opr i at e cl eaner.

✍ T o recover the CD or DVD softw are applica tions that ar e preinstal led on your

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

Troubleshooting

I cannot play a DVD.

If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player applicati on, it may be that the region code of the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible with the region code sett ing of your optical drive. A region code is listed on the disc packaging. Region code indicators such as “1” or “ALL” are labeled on some DVDs to indi cate the type of player that can play the disc. Unless a “1” or “ALL” appears on the DVD or on its packaging, you cannot play the dis c on this sys t em.

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

✍ If your video card uti lizes syste m me mory, you m ay improve video resolution by

changin g your screen area to 800 x 600, us ing 16-bit co lor. See your Specifications sheet for details ab out your computer’s video RAM.

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

❑ Verify that your DVD player’s mut e f eature is tu rned off. ❑ Check the maste r volume setting in the Audio Mixer. ❑ Check the volume settings on your computer speakers. ❑ Check the connections between your speakers and the computer. ❑ Veri fy that drivers are insta lled properly, by following these steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Control Panel. 2 Click Perfor ma nce and Maintenance and the n click Systems. The

System Properties dialog box appears.

3 Select the Hardware tab and then select the Device Manag er button to

view instal led drivers.

A dirty or dam age d disc may als o ca use the computer to stop r esponding while it tries to read the disc. If necessary, remove the disc and check that it is not dirty or damaged.

✍ T o recover the CD or DVD software applications tha t are preinstalled on your

computer, see “To Use the Ap p lication Recovery CD(s) ” fo r mo re informat io n .

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

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

❑ Some software appli cations require spe cific files that are loc ated on the

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

❑ Check to make sure you ins erted the CD-ROM with the label si de facing up.

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

If you are having dif ficulty formatt ing DVD-RW or CD-RW media for reco rding purposes, try changing the write speed to a lower setting.

See the online Help or docume ntati on that c ame with your CD or DVD re cording software application for details on adj usting write spee d settings.

Why is my computer oper ating improperly after downloading the CD-burning component of RealJukebox® software?

If you choose to download and use the optional RealJukebox software’s CD- burning compone nt to create CDs, the software feature may interfere with your computer’s normal system operations.

For VAIO® computers that are equipped with all of the necessary components for creating a CD-R or CD-RW, Sony recommends using the SonicStage software application to create CDs. SonicStage software is preinstalled on your computer.

How do I change the video resolution of my display?

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and then select Control Panel. 2 Select Appearances and Themes, then select “Change the screen resolution.” 3 Click the Settings tab. 4 Change the Screen r esolution and Color qua lity to the desired le vels. 5 Click Apply and then click OK.

Troubleshooting

Why is there no sound in any application?

❑ Check that the speakers are plugged into the Headphones jack. ❑ If your speakers have a mute button, verify that it is turned off. ❑ If your speakers are powered by batteries, verify that the batteries are

inserted prop erly and that they ar e ch arged.

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

plugged into a ground ed wal l outlet or power strip.

❑ If your speakers have volume control, check the volume level. ❑ You cannot hear sound from your speakers if he adphones are connected to

your computer.

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

that the volume is turned up.

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

steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then select Control Panel. 2 Select Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click “Ad just the

system volume.”

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

bar to the desired s ound level. Verify that the Mute option is not selected.

❑ Check that the Mute check box is not selected in the Windows volume

control.

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

more information.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

My modem connection is sl ow.

Many factors influence modem connection spee d:

❑ Telephone line noise ❑ Incompatibility with other telephone equipment such as fax machines or

other modems.

❑ Internet Service Providers (ISP) connec tion capability may vary.

If you think your modem is not conne cting properly to other P C-based modems, fax machines, or your ISP, check the following:

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

free from line noise.

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

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

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

phone number is compliant with V.90 standards.

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

not experienc ing technical problems.

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

My modem does not work.

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

❑ Check that the phone line is plugge d into the Line jack. ❑ Check that the phone line is working properly. You can verify the line by

plugging in an exte rnal device such as a standard telephone or fax machine and listening for a dial tone.

❑ Check that the access phone number (POP) is correct. ❑ All software applications th at are preinstalled by Sony are compatible with

your computer’s modem. If you have installed other software, contact the software publi s her for informat ion on how to configure the software in order to recognize the mo dem.

Troubleshooting

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

status.

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and then select Phone and Modem

Options.

3 From the Modems tab, click to select your modem. 4 Click Proper ties. The Modem Properties window appears. 5 Review the information in the Device status section. If your modem is

not working prope rly, click the Troubleshoot button. The VAIO Help and Support Center window appears.

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

✍ You may need to reinstall the modem drivers. See “To Use t he Driv er Recove ry CD” for

more information.

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

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. 2 Click Print ers and Other Hardware, then click Pho ne and Modem options. 3 From the Dialing Rules tab, click Edi t. The Edit Location dia log box

appears.

4 Select the Ton e or Pulse option. Click OK.

My microphone does not work.

Check that the micr ophone is plugged into the Microphone jack.

My microphone is too sensitive to background noise.

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

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. 2 Click Sounds, Speech, and Audio Devices, then click Sounds and Audi o

Devices.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

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

button. The Recording Control dialog box appears.

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

appears.

5 In the sec tion, “Adjust volume for,” select the Re cording option. Click OK. 6 From the Recording Control dialog box , dec r ease the microphone v olum e

level by moving th e s lider bar down.

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

Audio Devices Properties window.

My mouse does not work.

❑ Check that the mouse is plugged securely into the Mouse port. ❑ Save and close all open app lications. Turn off your computer, wait

approximately 10 seconds, and then rest art your computer.

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

follow these steps:

1 Save and close all applications, and turn off your computer. 2 Turn the mous e ups ide down. 3 Remove the mouse bal l cove r on the back of the mouse by turning

clockwise the ring that covers the mouse ball.

4 Turn the mous e upright, and drop the mouse ball into your hand. 5 Using a piece of tape, remove any dust or dirt on the mouse ball and

inside the mouse ball so cket.

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

Secure the cover by turning the ring counter-clockwise.

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

more information.

Troubleshooting

My mouse needs to be set up for lef t-hand use.

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. 2 Click Print ers and Other Hardware, then click Mouse . The Mouse Propert ies

dialog box appears.

3 From the Buttons tab, select “Switch primar y and s ec ondary buttons” under

the Button Configuration options.

4 Click Apply, then click OK.

My keyboar d does not work.

❑ Check that the keyboa rd is securely plugged into the Keyboard port. ❑ Save and close all open applications . Turn off your compu ter, wait

approximately 10 seconds, and then restart your computer.

I cannot find the Windows® taskbar.

The Windows taskbar may be hidden or minimize d.

❑ Use the mouse to locat e a hi dden taskbar by pointin g to the left, right, top,

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

1 Right-click on the taskbar and selec t Pr operties from the shortcut menu. 2 Clear the check box for Autohide the taskbar, then click OK.

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

top and bottom edges of the display screen. The ta skbar has been located when the cursor changes to a double arrow cursor. Left-click and drag aw ay from the edge of the displa y screen. The minimized taskbar resi zes and becomes visible.

Why is my system running s lowly?

❑ The system respons iveness varies depending with the number of

applicati ons that are open and running. Close any applications that you are not currently us ing.

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

memor y, please se e th e on li n e VAIO U ser G u id e .

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

How do I install a prin ter?

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

printer manufacturer for informat ion or updates that may be required for proper in stallation.

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

operating system before proceeding with ins tallation. Some printers do not function properly without the updat ed drivers for specific operating syst ems .

❑ To install your printer, follow these steps:

1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar, then click Control Panel. 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware, then click Add a Printer. 3 From the Add Printer Wizard, click Next. 4 Select Local Printer, then c lick Next.

✍ Place a check mark in the b ox for “Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play

printer”, if you are installing a recently man u factured printer wi th Plug and Play capability.

5 Select the app ropriate port, usual ly LPT1, and then click Next. 6 Select the appropriate printer manufacturer and model 7 Follow the on-screen instructions to print a test page and complete

printer installation.

✍ If the printer is not included in th e list and the pr inter manufacturer i ncluded a disk

with a Windows XP Pri nter dr iver, ch oose Hav e Di sk, en te r the a ppr opria te path f or t he disk or CD and cli ck OK.

If the printer is not included on the list and no dr ivers are inc luded with the printer, choose an alternate printer driver that your printer may em ulate. Ref er to the manual that came with your printer for specific emulation information.

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

Clear the pr inter memory by turni ng the printe r of f fo r approxi mately 10 s econds, and then turning it back on.

Troubleshooting

To contact Sony for technical support

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

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Notes on Use

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

The power source

❑ Your compute r operates on 100–120 V AC 50/60 Hz only. ❑ Plug all the power cords for your comp uter and i ts periphe ral equi pment into

the same AC supply line. AC deri ved from different s upply lines may result in voltage differences tha t ca n cause unstable operation or unwanted weak currents at the time of connection.

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

such as copying machines or shredders.

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

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

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

want to purchase an Unin terruptible Power Suppl y ( UPS). This device contains both a surge protector and a battery backup. The surge protector prevents dama ge to your computer caused by power surges. The battery backup safeguar ds your data during a brief period of power loss.

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

power. T o remove power from the system, you must turn of f the computer and then unplug the AC power cord from the wall outlet or power strip.

❑ Do not place heavy objects on the power cord. ❑ Do not operate the system with the cover removed. Always reinstall the

cover before turning on the system.

❑ To disconnect th e cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pul l the cord itself. ❑ Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you will not be using the

computer for a long time.

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

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

❑ Do not attemp t to open t he power s upply. There ar e no user -servi ceabl e part s

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

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Disposal of the lithium battery

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

Do not han dle damaged or leaking lithium batteries. The lithium bat tery may explode if mistreated . Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire.

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

Handlin g th e co mputer system

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

❑ Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts ❑ Direct sunlight ❑ Excessive d us t ❑ Mechanical vibration or shock ❑ Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded ❑ Ambient tempera ture of more than 95ºF (35ºC) or less than 50ºF (10ºC) ❑ High humidity, moisture, or rain

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

electromagnetic field may cause a mal f unction.

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

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

❑ Clean the c abinet with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly moist ened with

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

Notes on Use

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

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

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

to radio or TV recepti on. S hould this occur, relocate the computer a suitab le distance away from the set.

❑ Use only specifi ed peripheral equipment and interface cables; otherwise,

problems may result.

❑ Do not use cut or damaged conne ction cables. ❑ Always switch the power off befor e co nnecting your computer to peripheral

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

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

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

❑ Your Sony co mputer will not work wi th pa rty line s, c annot be connected to a

coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private b r an ch ex ch a ng e (PB X ) .

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

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

Moisture condensation

If your computer is brough t direc tly from a cold l ocati on to a warm one , moistu re may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least an hour before turning on your computer. If any problem occurs, unplug your comput er, and contact your Sony Service Center.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Upgrading the computer system

❑ The upgrading procedures described in the online manual, ass ume

familiarity with the ge nera l terminolo gy associated with personal com puters and with the safety practices and regulato r y compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment.

❑ Disconnect the system from its power source and from telecommunications

links, networks , or modems before you open the system or follow any of th e upgrading proced ures des cribed in the online manual. Failure to do so may result in personal injury or equipment damage.

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

other components . Follow the upgrading procedures described in the online manual while working at an ESD workstation. If such a station is not available , us e these precautions:

❑ Avoid working in a carpeted area. ❑ Do not hand le materials that may produce or hold static ele ctricity, such

as cellophane wrappers.

❑ Ground yourself by maintaining continuous contact with an unpainted

metal portion of the c has sis while performing the procedure.

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

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

Handling a display

❑ Do not change the displ ay refresh rate to 85 Hz, as DVD playback and the

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

❑ Do not place the display ne ar a strong magnetic force. ❑ Do not block the ventilation slots on the display. ❑ Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a residual

image on the s creen. This is n ot a malf uncti on. Wh en the computer ret urns t o normal temper ature, the s creen returns to normal.

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

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

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

indicate a mal f unction.

Notes on Use

Using the hard disk drive

❑ Do not place the comput er in a location that is subject to vibrati on or shock. ❑ Do not move the computer during operation. ❑ Do not subject th e computer to sudden changes in temperature. ❑ Do not turn off the power while the computer is accessing the hard disk

drive.

Handling floppy disks

❑ Do not open the shutt er manually and touch the surfac e of the floppy disk. ❑ Keep floppy disks away fr om magnets. ❑ Keep floppy disks away fr om direc t s unlight and other heat sources.

Handling CD or DVD media

❑ Do not touch the surface of the disc. ❑ Do not drop or bend the disc. ❑ Do not use adh es ive l abe ls to ide ntif y t he dis c. Th e l abel m ay com e of f while

the disc is in use in the optical drive and dama ge the drive.

Cleaning CD or DVD media

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

care of the disc is essent ial to maintain its reliability. Do not use solvents such as benz ine, thi nne r , comm ercia lly a vaila ble cle aner s o r a nti -sta ti c spray, as they may cause damage to the disc.

❑ For normal clean ing, hol d t he dis c by it s edge and us e a soft c loth t o wipe the

surfa ce from the center o ut.

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

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

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Resources

Sony provides severa l support options for your S ony computer. When you have questions abo ut your comput er and t he prein stal led s oftware, ch eck the se sourc es for answers, in the following sequence:

VAIO QuickStart The QuickStart contains information on how to set up

your computer quickly and easily.

VAIO Computer User Guide

Online (Electronic) Documentation

Software application manuals and online help files

Knowledge Database This database provides instant a cc es s to informa tion on

The User Guide contains informat ion on how to get the most from you r compute r , fi nd help, and s olv e common problems. (Note: The User Guide is not availab le in

hard copy for all models.)

The User G u id e is a vaila ble el ectron ic ally on y our ha rd drive. Two addit ional guides, Upgrading and Maintaining Your VAIO Digital Studio Computer and the Troubleshooting Help are also available online. To acce ss o n line documentation:

1 Click St art and point to VAIO Help and Support

Center .

2 Click on the VAIO User Guide.

Most manuals for preinst alled software are located on your hard dis k d rive a s onl ine help fil es. You can access online hel p files fro m the Help menu within the specific application. A printed manual may be avail able for some applications.

commonly encount ered problems. Enter a description of your problem and the Knowledge Database sea r ches for the corresponding solutions online. You can access the Sony Knowledge Database from the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

Resources

Sony Fax-on-Demand This service provides you with answers to commonly

asked questions. You can use this automated service to request a list of available topics. Select the topics tha t you want to view. To contact the Sony fax-on-demand service, call 1-888-4-SONY-PC (1-888-476-6972). (Requires a fax machine or fax software.)

Software Updates You can download the latest software updates and

software patches for your So ny computer by selecting Software Update s on the Sony Computi ng Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

VA IO Compute r System Reference Manual

This advanced reference manual supplie s de tailed technical information about your compu ter's hardware. This document is available on the Sony Computing Support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport.

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

Index

Input port 11 air circulation 84 Application Recovery CD(s)

ARCDs 66 audio file formats 55 audio problems 75

Back Panel 10 Browser security 49

caution

lithi u m ba tt er y 84

speakers 84 CD

playback problems 72, 74

tray eject 72 CD-RW

recording problems 74 changing window design 14 Check-In/Che ck-out 52 computer

adjusting voltage settings 83

changing parallel port type 71

condensation 85

disposing of lithium battery 84

hard disk drive 87

proper handling 84

removing side cover 83

shutting down 83

startup proble ms 69 system response problem 70 upgrading 86

connecting

cables 85 peripheral equipment 85 power cord 83 printers 80

defragmenting

hard disk drive 59

DigitalPrint software 19

LabelM aker 25 PhotoAlbum 24 PhotoCapture 19 PhotoCollection 22

PhotoDecor 23 disconnecting power cords 83 display

port 11

refresh rate 86 Driver Recovery CD

DRCD 67 DVD

playback proble ms 72, 73

region code warning 73

tray eject 72 DVD-RW

recording problems 74 DVgate software 27

AVI files 28

using a digital video device 27

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

electronic equipment 84 Electronic Mus ic Dis tribution se rvice

49 electros tatic discharge 86 EMD service 49 encryption 49 Ethernet

port 11

Floppy disk

drive 8 Front Panel 7 Full mode 55

handling your computer 84 hard disk drive

defragmenting 59

partitioning 59

using 87 hardware

cooling the hea t si nk 83 Headphones jack 11

i.LINK

(4-pin) port 9

(6-pin) port 11

compatibility 60

connecting 61 ImageStation 35 interference 85

Jog Dial 56

keyboard

port 10

troubleshooting 79

Line In jack 11 lithium battery

disposing 84

los i ng power 83

magnetic shielding 8 4 Memory Stick 56 Memory Stick slot 9 Microphone

jack 11

microphone

background noise 77 troubleshooting 77

Modem

jack 11

modem

slow connection 76

troubleshooting 76 moisture condensation 85 Monitor

port 11 monitor

refresh rate 86 Mouse

port 10 mouse

troubleshooting 78 MovieShaker software 29

adding effects 32

creating movies 30

saving a movie 34

uploading to Interne t 35

using ImageStat ion 35

using the Shaker feature 31 mult ip le telephone lin es

Operating system loc ks up 71

Index

optical drive

recording speed 74 tray eject 72

parallel port

changing type 71 partitioning your hard disk drive 59 party lines 85 PBX (Private Branch Exchange) 85 PictureGear software 37

creating a phot o album 38

managing picture s 37 power

button 9

cord 83

disconnecti ng power c ord 83

fluctuations or loss 83

source 83

source, preca utions 83

switch 9 precautions about power source 83 Printer

port 11 printer

installing 80

radio interference 85 recovering driv ers 70 Recovery CDs 63 region codes 73 removing side cover 83

safeguarding dat a 83 Secure Socke t s Layer 49 Serial port 11 setting up

electroni c equi pment 84

printers 80

Shortcut Keys 13

changing settings 13 shutting down the comput er 83 Simple mode 55 Skins 55 slot cover 86 Software

audio problems 75

CD playback problems 74

driver recovery 70

recovering applications 69

stopped responding 70 SonicStage software 49

Backup Tool 55

Electronic Music Distribution

service 49 importing audio fi les 55 Main Features 50 managing imported songs 55 recording from a CD 51 Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) 49 Simple mode 55 transferring songs 52 Tutorial 55

Sony

online service 35

Sony software

changing window design 14

speakers

caution 84

surge protectors 83 System Recovery CD(s)

SRCDs 64

system response problem 79

Telephone jack 11 telephone service 85 Troubleshooting 70

CD playback problems 74

VAIO Digital Studio Computer User Guide

CD/DVD playback problems 72 CD-RW recording 74 changing parallel port type 71 computer stopped responding 70 DVD playback problems 73 DVD-RW recordi ng 74 keyboard 79 microphone 77 modem 76 modem speed 76 mouse 78 operating system locks up 71 optica l dr i v e tray eject 7 2 printer inst allation 80 recover applica tions 69 software audio problems 75 startup problems 69 system response 79

Topics 69 turning off your computer 83 TV interference 85

Uninterruptible Power Supply 83 Univers al Serial Bus ports 9 upgrading

your computer 86 UPS 83 USB 9

VAIO Action Setup 13 VAIO Edit Com ponents 58 VAIO Edit Components software 58 ventilation 84 VisualFlow software 56

navigating 56 voltage settings 83

Sony VAIO Digital Studio User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual