Sony VAIO PCG-F150 User Manual

Sony Notebook Computer

User Guide

PCG-F150

Notice to Users

WARNING

Safety Information

© 1999 Sony Corporation. All rights reserved. This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable form without prior written approval.

ONY CORPORATION PROVIDES NO

WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL THE SOFTWARE, OR OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE WITH REGARD TO THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE OR SUCH OTHER INFORMATION

ORPORATION BE LIABLE FOR ANY

INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON TORT CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE, ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR OTHER INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN OR TO USE THEREOF

Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.

Sony, DVgate, i.LINK, Mavica, PictureGear, VAIO and the VAIO logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. Windows and the Windows 98 logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel, MMX, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation.

All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

. IN NO

EVENT SHALL SONY

Owner’s Record

The model number and serial number are located on the bottom of your Sony Notebook Computer. Record the serial number in the space provided here. Refer to the model and serial number when you

call VAIO Link. Model Number: PCG-F150

Serial Number:________________________

❑ Opening the unit, for whatever

reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee.

❑ To avoid electrical shock, do not

open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only.

❑ Audio and picture distortion may

occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic radiation.

❑ To prevent fire or shock hazard, do

not expose your Sony Notebook Computer to rain or moisture.

❑ Never install modem or telephone

wiring during a lightning storm.

❑ Never install telephone jacks in wet

locations unless the jack is specifically designed for wet locations

❑ Never touch uninsulated telephone

wire or terminals unless the telephone line has been disconnected at the network interface.

❑ Use caution when installing or

modifying telephone lines.

❑ Avoid using the modem during an

electrical storm.

❑ Do not use the modem or a telephone

to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.

❑ Use your notebook only with the

supplied AC adapter. To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC-adapter.

❑ Please make sure that the socket

outlet is easily accessible.

Regulatory Information DISPOSAL

This product conforms with the following European Directives: 73/23/EEC 89/336/EEC, 92/31/EEC (

Directives)

93/68/EEC This product complies with

EN 55022 Class B and EN 50082-1 for use in following areas: residential, business and lightindustrial.

This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits set out in the EMC Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 metres (9,8 feet).

According to the model:

The CD-ROM drive is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Products Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper use and repairs can create a safety hazard.

(Low Voltage Directive)

EMC

(CE-Marking Directive)

DISPOSAL O

DISPOSALDISPOSAL BATTERY.

BATTERY.

BATTERY.BATTERY.

Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries.

Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not disassemble, heat above 212° (100°C) or incinerate. Dispose of used battery promptly. Keep away from children.

Your notebook is equipped with an internal backup memory battery. For changing this battery, please contact VAIO Link.

✍

In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited. Please use the public collection system. Dispose of properly at end-of-life.

OFFFF L

LITHIUM ION

ITHIUM ION

O O

L L

ITHIUM ION ITHIUM ION

CLASS 1

LASER PRODUCT

TO EN 60825-1

As an E has determined that this product meets the E for energy efficiency. Energy Star is an U.S. registered mark.

NERGY STAR

Partner, Sony

guidelines

Contents

Welcome

About the User Guides.................................................................... 8

Unpacking Your Notebook Computer ......................................... 9

Ergonomic Considerations...........................................................10

Using Your Notebook Computer

Locating the Controls and Connectors.......................................13

Connecting a Power Source .........................................................17

Starting Your Computer ............................................................... 21

Shutting Down Your Computer .................................................. 22

Registering Windows

Registering Your Computer.........................................................24

Using the Keyboard.......................................................................25

Using the Touchpad ......................................................................31

Using the Floppy Disk Drive .......................................................32

Using the CD-ROM Drive ............................................................34

Using PC Cards..............................................................................36

Using the Programmable Power Keys (PPK) ............................ 39

Using Infrared Communication Devices....................................40

Using Power Saving Modes ......................................................... 42

Using a Second Battery Pack........................................................ 44

Using the Weight Saver ................................................................46

98............................................................. 23

Connecting Peripheral Devices

PC card modem..............................................................................48

Sony Notebook Computer User Guide

Port Replicator ................................................................................50

Printer...............................................................................................53

External Display .............................................................................54

Digital Still Camera or Other Serial Device................................57

Digital Video Camera Recorder...................................................59

MiniDisc deck with MD editor.....................................................60

External Mouse or Keyboard........................................................62

External Speakers ...........................................................................63

External Microphone .....................................................................64

Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device...............................................65

Getting Help

About Sony’s Support Options ....................................................67

Troubleshooting .............................................................................68

Using the Product Recovery CD-ROMs......................................76

Notes on Use ...................................................................... 79

Specifications .....................................................................85

Index................................................................................... 87

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO Notebook Computer. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing, and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing. Here are just some of the features your Sony Notebook Computer has to offer (read the details and specifications in your Software guide).

❑ Exceptional performance –Your PC includes a fast Intel

Pentium® II processor, a 24x (maximum performance) CD-ROM drive and a 56 kbps PC card modem.

❑ Portability – The rechargeable battery pack provides 2,5 to 3.5 hours

of use without AC power.

❑ Sony audio and video quality – a 13.0” XGA HPA screen enables you

to take advantage of today’s advanced multimedia applications, games, and entertainment software.

❑ Multimedia features – Enjoy the stereo speakers to listen to audio

and video CDs.

❑ Windows

98 –Your system includes the latest operating system

from Microsoft.

❑ Communications – Access popular online services, send and receive

e-mails, browse the Internet, and use the dialing and fax features.

❑ Excellent customer support: VAIO Link – If you have some

problems with your computer, you can contact VAIO Link by telephone, fax or e-mail (see your Customer Service Guide for phone numbers). Before calling VAIO Link, try to solve the problem by reading your User Guide (troubleshooting chapter) or the manuals and helpfiles of the peripherals or software.

Welcome

About the User Guides

This User Guide offers a quick introduction and reference to your Sony Notebook computer.

❑ Using Your VAIO Notebook Computer shows you how to use the

standard components of your system.

❑ Connecting Peripheral Devices explains how you can add

functionality by connecting various peripherals.

❑ Getting Help explains the support options available to you, and

offers basic troubleshooting tips.

❑ Notes on Use provides facts and advice about using your notebook

computer.

Refer to your Software Guide for information about the bundled software and the Sony applications:

❑ About the Software is a short description of the features of the

software pre-installled on your system

❑ Customizing your notebook explains you how to set your system

and power management with Sony Notebook Setup, PPK Setup, PowerPanel, BatteryScope... Learn how to set your display with NeoMagic and enjoy the Dual Screen Display option.

❑ Using the Media Bar gives you a brief description on the audio and

video user-friendly interface of Sony.

❑ Specifications of your computer, drivers and accessories.

On-line User Guides are included with your computer as electronic documents.

Unpacking Your Notebook Computer

Remove the following hardware items from the box:

CD-ROM drive

(installed)

Main unit

AC adapter

Rechargeable battery pack

CD-ROM

Power cord

Floppy disk drive

(installed at factory)

User manualsProduct Recovery

Weight Saver

PC card modem*

Phone plug*

✍

*According to the type of Sony Notebook you purchased, the COM1 PC card modem (and

Phone cable*

accessories) are optional. However, you need to have these peripherals to enjoy some of the features described in this manual.

Ergonomic Considerations

You will be using your notebook computer as a portable device in a variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to apply the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and portable environments.

Computer positioned directly in front of you

Arms at desk level

Wrists relaxed and flat

❑ Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of

you as you work. Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position while using the keyboard, touchpad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Take breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.

❑ Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust

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

❑ Viewing angle of the computer’s display – Use the display’s tilting

feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the display also.

Ergonomic Considerations

❑ Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create

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

❑ Tilt stand – You use the tilt stand to place the computer at an angle

that allows comfortable typing.

❑ Placement of an external display – When using an external display,

set the display at a comfortable viewing distance. Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.

Using Your Notebook Computer

This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use your computer’s internal devices, such as the touchpad, floppy disk drive, and CD-ROM drive.

Locating the Controls and Connectors

Front

LCD screen (pages 29, 73) Battery 1 and 2 indicators (page 28)

Speakers (page 57) Hard disk drive indicator (page 28)

Keyboard (page 25) Num Lock indicator (page 28)

Touchpad (page 31) Caps Lock indicator (page 28)

Left/right buttons (page 31) Scroll Lock indicator (page 28)

Power indicator (pages 21, 28)

Using Your Notebook Computer

Left

1 5

2 6

Power switch (page 21) S200 i.LINK connector (page 53)

Infrared port (page 40) PC card slots (page 36)

Microphone connector (page 58)

Headphone connector

✍

AC adapter mains connector and power cord: hazardous voltage, according to EN 60950.

Battery bay (page 18)

All other connectors for this notebook are SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage), according to EN 60950.

Right

42536

Locating the Controls and Connectors

PPK buttons (page 39) Multi-purpose bay (pages 32, 34)

1 3

CD-ROM drive (page 34) Internal microphone

2 4

Back

cover

/ Mouse/Keyboard connector (page 56)

Serial connector (page 51)

Printer (page 47)

Monitor connector (page 48)

USB connector (page 59)

DC In (page 17)

Using Your Notebook Computer

Bottom

Port replicator connector cover Tilt stands

Release lever

✍

There is a ventilation slot located near the USB connector. Do not cover the ventilation slot

when your computer is on.

Connecting a Power Source

You can use either AC power or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.

Using the AC Adapter

1 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on

the computer.

2 Plug one end of the power cord into the AC adapter. 3 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet.

Notebook computer

DC in

SELV according to EN 60950

✍

Use your notebook only with the supplied AC adapter.

AC adapter (supplied)

Power cord (supplied)

Hazardous Voltage according to EN 6 0950

To disconnect your notebook completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.

Please make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Using Battery Power

You can use one or two battery packs as a source of power. The second battery pack inserts into the multi-purpose bay on the right side of the computer. (See “Using a Second Battery Pack” on page 44.) Additional battery packs are available as a separate option.

The battery pack that comes with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase. Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.

To insert the battery pack

1 Open the cover of the battery bay.

2 Insert the battery pack into the battery bay on the left side of the

computer.

Battery pack (supplied)

Label side facing down

3 Close the cover of the battery bay until it clicks.

Connecting a Power Source

To charge the battery pack

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer. 2 Insert the battery pack.

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the battery is 85 percent full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes approximately two hours. To charge the battery completely, continue charging for an additional hour.

A fully charged battery pack supplies power for approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours. The time varies based on your system configuration. See "About the Software" guide, “Displaying Battery Information” on page 20 for information on checking the battery life.

There are two battery indicator lights on the computer:

Battery pack (supplied)

Battery Indicator Meaning

Indicates the status of the battery pack in the battery bay on the left side of the computer.

Indicates the status of the battery pack in the multipurpose bay on the right side of the computer.

Battery indicators

Secondary battery pack (not supplied)

Battery Indicator Light Status Meaning

On The computer is using battery power. Single blink The battery is running out of power. Double blink The battery is charging. Off The computer is using AC power.

Using Your Notebook Computer

✍

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter system hibernation mode when the battery life is low. To avoid loss of data when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as system suspend or system hibernation.

When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicators blink. To determine the amount of time the battery lasts. See "About the Software" guide, “Displaying Battery Information” on page 20.

See “Using a Second Battery Pack” on page 44 for information on installing and charging a battery pack in the multi-purpose bay.

Keep the battery pack in the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the computer.

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

You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPanel utility. See "About the Software" guide, “Controlling Power Management” on page 15.

The battery pack supplied with your computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged at any time. Charging a partially discharged battery does not affect battery life.

The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts flashing.

To remove the battery pack

1 Open the cover of the battery bay. 2 Pull out the battery pack.

3 Close the cover of the battery bay.

You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not

connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer is in System Suspend mode.

Starting Your Computer

1 Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the

cover.

LCD lock lever

2 Slide the power switch on the left side toward the front of the

computer until the green power indicator light turns on.

Power switch

✍

If you hold the power switch in the on position for more than four seconds, the computer turns off.

Power indicator

3 If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display with

Fn+F5. To increase the brightness, use the up or right arrow keys. To decrease use the down or left arrow keys.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Shutting Down Your Computer

To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer.

1 Click the Start button on the Windows

98 taskbar.

2 Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut

Down Windows dialog box.

3 Select Shut down. 4 Click OK.

✍

Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.

5 Wait for your computer to turn off automatically. The power indicator

(green) turns off.

6 Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.

✍

If you are unable to shut down your computer using the steps described above, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys at the same time to restart the computer. If you are unable to restart the computer in this way, you can slide the power switch forward and hold for four seconds. This operation may result in data loss.

During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend mode. See "About the Software" guide, “Controlling Power Management” on page 15.

Registering Windows® 98

The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few steps to register and configure the Windows 98 software that is already installed on your computer.

✍

You must register Windows 98 before you can use the computer.

The on-screen instructions guide you through the registration and configuration process. The following is an overview of the process.

1 Gathering information:

❑ Enter your name. ❑ Read and accept the License Agreement. ❑ Enter your Certificate of Authenticity number located on the

cover of the Microsoft Windows 98

Getting Started

manual.

2 Windows 98 setup:

❑ Click the Finish button on the Windows 98 Setup Wizard screen.

3 Selecting your computer settings:

❑ If necessary, change the Time Zone, Date and Time on the Date/

Time Properties screen.

4 Learning about Windows 98:

❑ If you want, take the tour of Windows 98.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Registering Your Computer

You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer support and receive the following benefits by registering your computer with Sony:

❑ VAIO Link – You can contact VAIO Link by telephone, fax or e-mail

(see your Customer Service Guide for phone numbers).

❑ Guarantee – Protect your investment. See the Guarantee Card for

details. See your Customer Service Guide for guarantee conditions.

Follow these steps to use the Sony Notebook Computer’s online registration service.

✍

You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online registration service. See “Connecting to a phone line” on page 42.

1 Enter the information requested on the online registration form. 2 Click the Register now button and complete the form.

Click the Send Directly Button to register your computer, via modem to modem connection. Your computer automatically transfers your registration information, using your PC Card modem and a preset phone number. Click Send via Internet if you chose to send your information via the WWW.

Using the Keyboard

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

Escape Key Function keys Print Screen key

Correction keys

Shift key

Ctrl key

Fn key

Windows 98 key

Alt key

Keys Descriptions

Numeric keypad area

Contains the keys found on a typical calculator. Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or to perform mathematical calculations such as addition and subtraction. Note that you must press the Num Lock key to activate the numeric keypad. (When you do so, the Num Lock light will be on.)

Navigation keys

Applications key

Numeric keypad area

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

Correction keys The Insert, Back Space, and Delete keys enable you to

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

screen.

make corrections in your documents.

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

Using Your Notebook Computer

Keys Descriptions

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

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

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

Operator keys Several keys are always used with at least one other key:

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

Windows 98 key The key with the Windows logo displays the Windows 98

Start menu; it’s the equivalent of clicking the Start button on the task bar. See “Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key” on page 27.

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

issue commands. See “Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key” on page 29.

Applications key The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of

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

Using the Keyboard

Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key

Combinations Functions

+ F1 Displays Windows Help.

+ Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar.

+ E Displays Windows Explorer.

+ F Displays the Windows Find: All Files window to find

a file or folder. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Files or Folders from the Start menu.

+ Ctrl + F Displays the Windows Find: Computer window

where you can locate other computers. This is the equivalent of selecting Find and then Computer from the Start menu.

+ M Minimizes all displayed windows.

Shift + + M Returns all minimized windows to their previous

size.

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

selecting Run from the Start menu.

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

equivalent of double-clicking the System icon in the Control Panel.

Using Your Notebook Computer

Indicators

Indicators Functions

Power Power on: lights green.

System Idle mode: lights red. System suspend mode: flashes red.

Battery 1 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the battery

Battery 2 Indicates the status of the battery inserted in the multi-

Hard disk Lights when data is being read from or written to the

bay on the left side of the computer.

purpose bay on the right side of the computer.

hard drive. Do not enter System Suspend mode or turn off the computer when this indicator light is on.

Light On Off

Num Lock Turns on when the

number keys area in the numeric keypad are active.

Caps Lock Turns on when the letters

appear in uppercase as you type. The Shift key lowers the case of typed

Turns off when the alphanumeric character keys in the keypad area are active.

Turns off when letters appear in lower case as you type (unless you hold down

the Shift key). letters when Caps Lock is on.

Scroll Lock Turns on when the

screen scrolls differently. (Exactly how it scrolls

Turns off when information

moves across the display

normally. depends on the specific application. It has no effect in many applications.)

+ 64 hidden pages

Sony VAIO PCG-F150 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual