Sony VGN - A User Manual

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-A series/VGN-FS series

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Contents

Before Use .........................................................................................................................................................................6

Notice...........................................................................................................................................................................6

E

NERGY STAR ...............................................................................................................................................................7

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................8

Ergonomic Considerations.........................................................................................................................................11

Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................13

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................14

About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................27

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................29

Using the Battery Pack ..............................................................................................................................................30

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................37

Using Your VAIO Computer .............................................................................................................................................38

Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................39

Using the Touch Pad .................................................................................................................................................42

Using Special-function Buttons ..................................................................................................................................43

Using the Optical Disc Drive ......................................................................................................................................45

Using the TV Function ...............................................................................................................................................53

Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................54

Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................58

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................62

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................63

Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................73

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Using Peripheral Devices .................................................................................................................................................78

Connecting a Port Replicator .....................................................................................................................................79

Using the Mouse ........................................................................................................................................................92

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................................................................................................95

Using the Remote Commander ...............................................................................................................................101

Connecting an External Display...............................................................................................................................104

Selecting Display Modes..........................................................................................................................................112

Using the Multiple Monitors Function.......................................................................................................................115

Connecting an External Microphone........................................................................................................................118

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device....................................................................................................119

Connecting a Printer ................................................................................................................................................122

Connecting an i.LINK Device ...................................................................................................................................124

Connecting to a Network (LAN) ...............................................................................................................................126

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ................................................................................................................................128

Setting the Password ...............................................................................................................................................129

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center..............................................................................................134

Using the Power Saving Modes...............................................................................................................................135

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ....................................................................................................140

Setting Up Your Language with Windows XP Professional .....................................................................................143

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................146

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................147

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Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................161

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................162

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................163

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................164

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................166

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................167

On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................168

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................169

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................169

On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................170

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................171

Troubleshooting the optical disc drive......................................................................................................................172

Troubleshooting PC Cards.......................................................................................................................................175

Troubleshooting the modem ....................................................................................................................................175

Troubleshooting the Bluetooth functionality .............................................................................................................177

Troubleshooting Wireless LAN ................................................................................................................................180

Troubleshooting Power Management ......................................................................................................................183

Troubleshooting External Displays ..........................................................................................................................184

Troubleshooting Sound (Speaker) ...........................................................................................................................186

Troubleshooting Sound (Microphone)......................................................................................................................187

Troubleshooting Floppy Disks..................................................................................................................................189

Troubleshooting Printers ..........................................................................................................................................190

Troubleshooting i.LINK Devices...............................................................................................................................192

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Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................193

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................193

e-Support .................................................................................................................................................................194

Trademarks..............................................................................................................................................................196

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Before Use

Before Use

Congratulations on your purchase of this Sony VAIO® computer, and welcome to the on-screen User Guide. Sony has
combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing, and communications to provide state-of-the-art personal
computing.

Notice

© 2005 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.
Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and

hereby expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this
manual, the software or such other information. In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental, consequential,
or special damages, whether based on tort, contract, or otherwise, arising out of or in connection with this manual, the
software, or other information contained herein or the use thereof.

Macrovision: This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual
property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and
other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is
prohibited.

In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified.
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.
Please note that the illustrations in this manual may not necessarily apply to your model. Please see the printed

Specifications Guide for the specific configuration of your VAIO computer.

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Before Use

ENERGY STAR

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.
The International E

the use of computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with
functions that effectively reduce energy consumption. It is an open system in which business proprietors can participate
voluntarily. The targeted products are office equipment such as computers, displays, printers, facsimiles and copiers. Their
standards and logos are uniform among participating nations.

E

NERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.

NERGY STAR Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through

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Before Use

Documentation

Your Documentation contains printed information and user guides to read on your VAIO computer.
Guides are provided in PDF format, which you can easily browse through and print out.
The My Club VAIO portal is a perfect starting point to use your computer — a comprehensive collection of everything you

need to get the most from your computer.
The user guides are collected under Documentation, which can be shown as follows:

1 Click Start and then the My Club VAIO icon .
2 Click Documentation.
3 Select the guide you want to read.

✍

You can manually browse to the user guides by going to My Computer > VAIO (C:) (your C drive) > Documentation > Documentation and opening the
folder for your language.

You may have a separate disc for the documentation of bundled accessories.

Printed Documentation

8

❑ A Setting Up Poster — Describes the process from unpacking to starting up your VAIO.
❑ Specifications Guide — Contains a table of specifications and a list of bundled software.
❑ Troubleshooting Guide — Contains solutions to common problems.
❑ Recovery Guide — Contains an explanation of how to recover your computer's system if you need to.
❑ Booklets containing the following information: Sony Guarantee conditions, Safety Regulations, Modem Regulations,

Wireless LAN Regulations and Bluetooth Regulations.

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Before Use

Non-printed Documentation

My Club VAIO

In My Club VAIO you can find:
Documentation, which gives you:
❑ Access to the User Guide. This manual explains the features of your computer in detail, how to use these features

confidently and safely, connect peripheral devices and more.

❑ Access to Help and Training. This is the portal of VAIO Help and Support Center.
❑ Important information about your computer, in the form of notices and announcements.

In My Club VAIO you can also find:

❑ Accessories

Want to expand the capabilities of your computer? Click on this icon and have a look at your compatible accessories.

❑ Software

Feeling creative? Click this icon for an overview of your software and check out our upgrade options.

❑ Wallpapers

Click this icon and check out our most popular Sony and Club VAIO wallpapers.

❑ Links

Click this icon and check out our most popular Sony and Club VAIO web sites.

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Before Use

Help and Support Center

Help and Support Center is a comprehensive resource for practical advice, tutorials, and demonstrations to help you learn
to use Microsoft Windows XP and your computer.

Use the Search feature, Index, or table of contents to view all Windows Help resources, including those that are on the
Internet.

To access Help and Support Center, click Start and then Help and Support. Or go to the Help and Support Center by

pressing the Microsoft Windows key and the F1 key.

Further Sources

❑ Consult the Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting.
❑ Go to www.club-vaio.com

to find online tutorials about your favorite VAIO software.

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Before Use

Ergonomic Considerations

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

❑ Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your

wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touch pad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms
hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain
muscles or tendons.

❑ Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the

floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning
far backwards.

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Before Use

❑ Viewing angle of the computer's display – Use the display's tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye

strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the
display as well.

❑ Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect

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

❑ Positioning 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.

Getting Started

This section describes how to get started with using your VAIO computer.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 14)
❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 27)
❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 29)
❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 30)
❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 37)

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Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

Take a moment to identify the controls and ports shown on the following pages.

!

The following illustrations may appear different from your model, depending on the country or area of your residency.

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Getting Started

VGN-A series models

Front

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Getting Started

A Mute button/indicator (page 43)
B Volume buttons (page 43)
C Brightness button/indicator (page 43)
D Magnify screen button (page 43)
E S1 button (page 43)
F LCD screen (page 162)
G Keyboard (page 39)
H Touch pad (page 42)
I Power indicator (page 27)
J Battery indicator (page 27)
K Hard disk drive indicator (page 27)
L Optical disc drive indicator (page 27)

M Memory Stick media slot
N Memory Stick media indicator (page 27)
O WIRELESS switch (page 63)
P Bluetooth indicator (page 27)
Q WIRELESS LAN indicator (page 27)

* Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick Pro

high speed and high capacity capabilities.

*

(page 58)

Speakers

A
B Num lock indicator (page 27)
C Caps lock indicator (page 27)
D Scroll lock indicator (page 27)
E Power button
F Auto luminance sensor (page 43)

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Getting Started

Back

A DC In port (page 29)
B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

C Network (Ethernet) port (page 126)
D AV Out jack (page 108)
E Monitor (VGA) port (page 104)
F Air vent

* Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*

(page 119)

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Getting Started

Right

A

Drive eject button (page 45)

B Optical disc drive (page 45)
C Substitute drive eject button (page 45)
D Manual eject hole (page 172)
E Modem port (page 62)

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Getting Started

✍

You can use either drive eject button to eject the optical disc drive tray. The drive eject button located next to the optical disc drive functions only with
the Microsoft Windows operating system.

Left

A Microphone jack (page 118)
B Headphones jack (page 95)

C i.LINK

®

(IEEE1394) S400 port (page 124)

D Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port
E PC Card slot (page 54)
F PC Card eject button (page 54)

* Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*

(page 119)

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Getting Started

Bottom

A AV station/port replicator connector (page 79)
B Air vents
C LOCK/UNLOCK switch (page 30)
D RELEASE switch (page 30)
E Battery bay (page 30)

F CONNECT button

* On selected models with wireless mouse functionality.

*

(page 92)

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Getting Started

VGN-FS series models

Front

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Getting Started

A LCD screen (page 162)
B Speakers
C Keyboard (page 39)
D Touch pad (page 42)
E Power indicator (page 27)
F Battery indicator (page 27)
G Hard disk drive/Optical disc drive indicator (page 27)
H Memory Stick media indicator (page 27)
I WLAN (Wireless LAN) switch (on selected models only) (page

63)

J WIRELESS LAN indicator (on selected models only) (page 27)
K Headphones jack (page 95)
L Microphone jack (page 118)

Display lock latch

A
B S1 button (page 43)
C S2 button (page 43)
D Num lock indicator (page 27)
E Caps lock indicator (page 27)
F Scroll lock indicator (page 27)
G Power button

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Getting Started

Back

A Air vent
B Battery connector (page 30)

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Getting Started

Right

Getting Started

A PC Card eject button (page 54)
B PC Card slot (page 54)

C i.LINK
D Memory Stick media slot
E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

®

(IEEE1394) S400 port (page 124)

*1

(page 58)

*2

(page 119)

F Monitor (VGA) port (page 104)
G DC In port (page 29)

*1

Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick PRO
high speed and high capacity capabilities.

*2

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

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Left

A Network (Ethernet) port (page 126)
B Modem port (page 62)
C Optical disc drive (page 45)
D Manual eject hole (page 172)
E Drive eject button (page 45)

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Getting Started

Bottom

A Port replicator connector (page 79)
B Air vents

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Getting Started

Getting Started

About the Indicator Lights

Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights.

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates when the power of the computer is on, blinks in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is

in Hibernate mode or off.

Battery e Illuminates when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery is running out of power, and

Memory Stick Pro/Duo

Optical disc drive (VGN-A
series only)

Mute % (VGN-A series only) Illuminates when the volume is turned off.

Brightness 8 (VGN-A series only) Illuminates when the screen is on maximum brightness intensity.

Hard disk (VGN-A series only)

Hard disk/Optical disc drive
(VGN-FS series only)

Num lock

Caps lock

double-blinks when the battery is charging.

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the Memory Stick media. (Do not enter Standby mode or turn
off the computer when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the Memory Stick media is not being used.

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the optical disc. When the indicator is off, the optical disc is not
being used.

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk. Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the
computer when this indicator is on.

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk or the optical disc. Do not enter Standby mode or
turn off the computer when this indicator is on.

Press the Num Lk key to activate the numeric keypad. Press it a second time to deactivate the numeric keypad.
The numeric keypad is not active when the indicator is off.

Press the Caps Lock key to type letters in uppercase. Letters appear in lowercase if you press the Shift key
while the indicator is on. Press the key a second time to turn off the indicator. Normal typing resumes when the
Caps Lock indicator is off.

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Indicator Functions

Scroll lock

Bluetooth (VGN-A series only)

WIRELESS LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running.

Press the Scr Lk key to change how you scroll the display. Normal scrolling resumes when the Scr Lk indicator
is off. The Scr Lk key functions differently depending on the program you are using and does not work with all
programs.

Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is set to ON and Bluetooth technology is enabled.

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Getting Started

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Getting Started

Connecting a Power Source

You can use either an AC adapter or a rechargeable battery pack as a power source for your computer.

Using the AC Adapter

✍

Use the computer only with the supplied AC adapter.

To use the AC adapter

1 Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter.
2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).
3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (3) into the DC In port (4) on the computer or on the (optional) port replicator.

!

The shape of the DC In plug varies depending on the AC adapter.

✍

To disconnect the computer completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.

Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible.

If you do not use the AC adapter for a long period of time, put the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 138). This power
saving mode saves you the time of shutting down in the normal way.

Using the Battery Pack

The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.

Installing the Battery Pack

To install the battery pack

VGN-A series models

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch (1) on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position.
3 Slide the RELEASE switch (2) on the bottom of the computer to the RELEASE position.

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Getting Started

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Getting Started

4 Remove the battery compartment cover.
5 Slide the battery into the battery compartment cover.

6 Turn over the battery attached to the battery compartment cover.
7 Insert the tab on the battery compartment cover into the notch, and push the battery down into the compartment until it

clicks into place.

8 Slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch to the LOCK position to secure the battery on the computer.

VGN-FS series models

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the lock switch (1) to the UNLOCK position.

3 Slide the battery into the battery compartment until it clicks into place.

4 Slide the lock switch (1) to the LOCK position to secure the battery on the computer.

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Getting Started

✍

When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed, it uses power from the AC outlet.

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

The battery pack supplied with your computer is not fully charged at the time of purchase.

To charge the battery pack

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

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery
charges). When the battery is about 85% charged, the battery indicator turns off.

Battery indicator light status Meaning

On The computer is using battery power.

Blinks The battery is running out of power.

Double blinks The battery is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

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Getting Started

✍

When the battery is running out of power, both the battery and power indicator lights blink.

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 below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down the computer and install a fully charged
battery.

The battery pack supplied with the computer is a lithium ion battery and can be recharged 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 the battery life is nearly depleted, both the battery and power
indicator lights start flashing.

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, the computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when 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 Standby or

Hibernate. If the battery wears out when the computer enters Standby mode, you will lose any unsaved data. Going back to the previous work state is
impossible. To avoid loss of data, you should save your data frequently.

When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed, it uses power from the AC outlet.

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Getting Started

Removing the Battery Pack

!

You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the
computer is in Standby mode.

To remove the battery pack

VGN-A series models

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the LOCK/UNLOCK switch (1) on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position.
3 Slide the RELEASE switch (2) on the bottom of the computer to the RELEASE position.

The right edge of the battery compartment cover is pushed up.

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Getting Started

4 Raise the edge to remove the battery compartment cover.
5 Open the tabs on the battery compartment cover to release the battery and remove it from the battery compartment cover.
6 Insert the two tabs on the battery compartment cover diagonally into the notches and push the cover into the compartment

until it clicks into place.

VGN-FS series models

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the lock switch (1) to the UNLOCK position.

3 Slide and hold the release latch (2) and slide the battery away from the computer.

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Getting Started

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

To avoid losing unsaved data, be sure to shut down your computer properly, as described below.

To shut down your computer

1 Turn off any peripherals connected to the computer.
2 Click Start and then Turn Off Computer.

The Turn off computer window appears.
3 Click Turn O ff.
4 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for the computer to turn off

automatically.

The power indicator light turns off.

✍

See the printed Troubleshooting Guide if you have problems shutting down the computer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Your VAIO Computer

Once you have read and followed the information in the printed Specifications Guide, you can start using your computer
safely and confidently.

Read on to get the most out of using your computer.

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 39)
❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 42)
❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 43)
❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 45)
❑ Using the TV Function (page 53)
❑ Using PC Cards (page 54)
❑ Using the Memory Stick Media (page 58)
❑ Using the Internet (page 62)
❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 63)
❑ Using the Bluetooth Functionality (page 73)

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer keyboard, but has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.
For more information on the standard keys, see Help and Support Center and click on the Customizing your computer

link.
The VAIO-Link web site (www.vaio-link.com

) also contains glossary information to help you use the keyboard.

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

✍

Some functions are not available until Windows is launched.

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + % (F2): speaker switch (VGN-FS series only) Turns on and off the built-in speakers and the headphones.

Fn + 2 (F3/F4): speaker volume (VGN-FS series

only)

Fn + 8 (F5/F6): brightness control Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

Fn + /T (F7): switch to the external display

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
To increase volume, press Fn+F4 and then M or ,, or keep pressing Fn+F4.
To decrease volume, press Fn+F3 and then m or <, or keep pressing Fn+F3.

To increase lightness intensity, press Fn+F6 and then M or ,, or keep pressing Fn+F6.
To decrease lightness intensity, press Fn+F5 and then m or <, or keep pressing Fn+F5.

Toggles between the LCD, external device (e.g. monitor) and both LCD and external device.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + (F10): zoom (VGN-FS series only)

Fn + (F12): Hibernate

Changes the screen resolution to magnify/restore the screen view.

✍

The default resolutions of the standard view and the magnified view are as follow:
Standard view: 1280 x 800 pixels
Magnified view: 1024 x 600 pixels
The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view, as it is implemented by applying a lower resolution
to the LCD screen with a higher resolution.
This key combination is disabled during video playback. Make sure to quit such software before pressing
the key combination.
This key combination may not work with graphic images as it magnifies the screen view by changing the
resolution.
The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or the standard
view is restored because pressing this key combination changes the resolution.
When the LCD screen view is magnified, switching the view to the external display disables the function
and restores the standard view.

Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the
states of the system and the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk and the system
power is turned off. To return the system to its original state, use the power switch to turn on the
power.
For details on power management, see the section Using the Power Saving Modes (page

135).

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Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Touch Pad

The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, the touch pad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the
screen using the touch pad.

Action Description

Point Slide one finger on the touch pad to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.

Click Press the left button (3) once.

Double-click Press the left button twice.

Right-click Press the right button (4) once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu.

Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button.

Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touch pad to scroll vertically. Move your finger along the bottom to scroll

horizontally (the scroll function is available only with applications that support a touch pad scroll feature).

Using Special-function Buttons

Your computer is equipped with special buttons to help you use specific functions of the computer.

VGN-A series models

Special-function button Functions

Turns the volume on and off. The LED turns on when the volume is turned off.

Mute button

Increase and decrease the volume.

Vol um e buttons
(Volume down and Volume up)

You can increase and decrease the brightness intensity. When the screen is on maximum brightness intensity,

Brightness button

Magnify screen button (Zoom) :

the LED turns on.
Auto luminance sensor:
By default, the light sensor senses the brightness from outside and the display brightness is adjusted
accordingly. This setting applies only when the display is set to automatic brightness mode. Press the
brightness button to set the display to automatic brightness mode. You can adjust the general level of the
automatic brightness mode in Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center (page 134).

Changes the image resolution in all applications, except in those that use the DVD player.
The default resolutions of the standard view and the magnified view are as follows:
Standard view: 1440 x 900 pixels
Magnified view: 1024 x 600 pixels

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Using Your VAIO Computer

S1 button

By default, the S1 button launched the VAIO Zone software. You also can link to this shortcut button another
action that you execute often. See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center (page 134).

Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

When an external display is connected to the computer, the Magnify screen button is disabled.

The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view.

Pressing the Magnify screen button changes the resolution, thus may cause a defect to any running software that does not support change in

resolution. Make sure to quit such software before pressing the Magnify screen button.

The Magnify screen button may not work with graphic images because it magnifies the screen view by changing the resolution.

The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or when the standard view is restored.

When the LCD screen view is magnified, switching the view to the external display disables the function and restores the standard view.

VGN-FS series models

Special-function button Functions

S1/S2 buttons

By default, the S1 button turns the volume on and off and the S2 button toggles the display output between
the LCD and external device. You can also link to these shortcut buttons another action that you execute
often.
See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center (page 134).

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Using the Optical Disc Drive

Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.

To insert a disc

1 Turn on the computer.
2 Press the drive eject button (1) to open the drive.

The tray slides out.
3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up until the disc clicks into place.

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4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently.

!

Do not remove the optical disc when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate). Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction.

✍

If you plan to use an external optical disc drive, connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled CD/DVD program.

See the printed Troubleshooting Guide if you have problems using discs.

The location of the drive eject button depends on the model your purchased. See Locating Controls and Ports (page 14).

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Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs

Your computer plays and records CDs and DVDs, depending on the model you purchased. Check your specifications for the
type of optical disc drive installed on your model. Use the table below to see which types of media your optical disc drive
supports.

Optical disc drive Plays Records to

CD-ROM CD, CD-R, and CD-RW —

DVD-ROM DVD and most DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW

and DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

CD-RW/DVD-ROM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

DVD±RW CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R,

DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

* On selected models only.

*

*

and DVD+RW

*

and DVD+RW

!

This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc Digital Audio standard specifications (CD Standard). A DualDisc is a two

sided disc product which mates DVD recorded material on one side with digital audio material on the other side. Please be aware that the audio side

(non-DVD side) of a DualDisc may not play on this product because it does not conform to the CD Standard.

—

CD-R and CD-RW

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R
DL (Double Layer)* and DVD+RW

!

Due to the multiple formats of discs now available, when buying pre-recorded or blank discs for use with a VAIO computer, be sure to read the notices

on the disc packaging carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer's optical disc drives. Sony does NOT guarantee

the compatibility of VAIO CD drives with discs that not compliant with the official "CD" format standard (or "DVD" standard in relation to DVD drives).

USING NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO PC OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING.

For inquiries about disc formats, contact the individual publisher of the pre-recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc.

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✍

Supports writing to DVD-RW discs compliant with DVD-RW version 1.1/1.2.

Supports writing to DVD-R discs compliant with DVD-R for General version 2.0/2.1.

Supports 8cm disc reading, but does not support 8cm disc writing.

Writing to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD+R DL (Double Layer) recording.

Notes on writing data onto a disc

❑ To make the data on a disc readable on an optical disc drive, you need to close the session when you eject it. To complete

this process, follow the instructions included with your software.
❑ Only use circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage the optical disc

drive.

❑ Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data onto a disc.
❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data onto a disc.
❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software while writing data to a disc. This may cause the computer to malfunction.
❑ When using your software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications.
❑ Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors.
❑ Do not switch power modes while using the pre-installed software and while using the CD burning software.
❑ Never put stickers on discs. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably.
❑ Connect and use the AC adapter to power the computer or make sure your battery is at least 50 percent charged.
❑ Some DVD players and computer's DVD drives may not be able to play DVDs created on applicable models using the

VAIO Zone software.

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Notes on playing DVDs

To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, you should follow these recommendations.
❑ You can play DVDs using the optical disc drive and the DVD playback software, such as VAIO Zone or WinDVD. See the

help file on such software for details.

❑ Close all open applications before playing a DVD movie.
❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software to speed up disc access when playing a DVD. This may cause the computer

to malfunction.

❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before playing a disc.
❑ Some discs recorded at 20 or 24 bits may produce noise while playing. If you have audio devices connected, this may

damage your hearing and the speakers. Reduce the volume before playing a DVD.

❑ Do not switch power saving modes while the computer is playing a DVD.
❑ Region codes indicators are labeled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the

disc. Unless a "2" (Europe belongs to region "2") or "all" (this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the

world) is labeled on your DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player.

!

If you change the DVD region code while the WinDVD software is running, restart the software or eject the disc and re-insert it to make the new setting

effective.

❑ Do not try to change the region code settings of the DVD drive. Any difficulties caused by changing the region code

settings of the DVD drive are out of warranty.
❑ If the computer has Wireless LAN and Wireless LAN is activated, playing DVDs may cause some interruptions in audio

and video.
❑ When you are playing a DVD (video or audio) and you want to remove a USB device, such as USB-compatible speakers,

make sure you stop the DVD first. Removing a USB-compatible device during DVD (video or audio) playback may cause

a malfunction.

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Playing CDs

To play an audio CD

1 Insert the disc into the optical disc drive.
2 If nothing appears on the desktop once you insert an audio CD disc, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to

open a CD program, such as the SonicStage software.

If the Audio CD window appears, click to select an option.

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Copying Files to CDs

To determine which type of CD your computer supports, see Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs (page 47).

To copy files to a CD-RW or CD-R

!

Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data onto a disc.

1 Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into the optical disc drive.

If the CD Drive window appears, click Take no action.

2 Open Windows Explorer by pressing the Windows key and the E key simultaneously.
3 In the Folders panel on the left, locate the file(s) or folder(s) you want to copy and either:

❑ Right-click the file(s) or folder(s), point to Send To, and click the optical disc drive

❑ Drag the file(s) or folder(s) onto the optical disc drive icon in the Files Stored on This Computer panel.

4 Close Windows Explorer.
5 Click Start and then My Computer.
6 Click the optical disc drive icon under Devices with Removable Storage. A new window appears with the file(s) or

folder(s) you want to copy listed under Files Ready to Be Written to the CD.
7 In the CD Writing Tasks box, click Write these files to CD.
8 Follow the instructions in the CD Writing Wizard.

* The read/write drive letter designation may vary, depending on your system's hardware configuration.

*

name.

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Playing DVDs

To play a DVD

1 Close all open programs.
2 Insert the DVD into the optical disc drive.
3 Click Start and point to All Programs.
4 Select a DVD software program to play the DVD.

For instructions on how to use a program, see the help guide included with the DVD software program.

Copying Files to DVDs

To copy files to a DVD-R or DVD-RW

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2 Insert the disc into the optical disc drive.
3 Click Start and point to All Programs.
4 Select a DVD software program you want to use from the submenu.

For instructions on how to use a program, see the help guide included with the DVD software program.

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Using the TV Function

If an A/V port replicator is supplied with the model you purchased, your computer is equipped with a TV tuner to enable the
TV function. See the printed Specifications Guide to see if your model supports the TV function.

In combination with Sony's VAIO Zone software, the TV tuner board allows you to:

❑ Watch, record and play back analog broadcasted cable and terrestrial TV programs, all by remote control.
❑ Digitize analog video and audio using the S-video or composite and audio inputs.
❑ Manage your video units (capsules), preview them and create multiple folders.
❑ Set up a timer to record channels at a repeated time.
❑ Suspend viewing TV (time-shifting).
❑ Stream your recorded TV contents via Ethernet (or WLAN) to connected PCs.

!

Sony cannot guarantee the streaming of recorded content if it does not meet a certain level of high quality.

For details on using the VAIO Zone software and the remote control, please see the dedicated guide. Otherwise read the
help files within the software itself.

To connect terrestrial or cable TV to your computer

1 Plug one end of your antenna cable/cable-TV cable (supplied with selected models only*) into the VHF/UHF port on the

A/V port replicator.
2 Plug the other end into the TV wall socket.

* See the printed Specifications Guide for the accessories supplied with your model.

Using PC Cards

PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices to your computer.

Inserting a PC Card

!

Some PC Cards or their functions may not be compatible with the computer.

You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.

To insert a PC Card

1 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up.
2 Gently push the PC Card into the slot.

The PC Card is automatically detected by your system.

The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears on the taskbar.

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✍

Some devices may not function properly if you continually switch to Normal mode from Standby mode or Hibernate mode. For some PC Cards, if you

alternate between Normal mode and Standby or Hibernate mode while the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not

recognized. Restart your system to correct the problem. Restarting will restore the original state of the computer.

While the card is inserted, the computer may not enter Hibernate power management mode. It may enter Standby mode. We recommend that you

remove the card before the computer enters Hibernate mode.

Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.

If an "!" mark appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties window, remove the software driver and then reinstall it.

Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a PC Card, check that you are inserting the PC

Card in the correct direction. See the manual supplied with your PC Card for more information on use.

Do not carry the computer while touching the head of a PC Card, because pressure or shock may damage the connector pins.

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Removing a PC Card

Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not
work properly.

To remove a PC Card

✍

To remove a PC Card when the computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7.

!

If you remove the PC Card from the computer when it is still turned on, your system could malfunction and you might lose any unsaved data.

Before you remove the PC Card, click the PC Card icon on the taskbar and close the card. Close any applications that use the PC Card before removing

the card. Otherwise, data may be lost.

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.

The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.

2 Select the hardware you want to unplug.
3 Click Stop.

The Stop a Hardware Device window appears.
4 Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system.
5 Click OK.

A window appears, explaining that it is safe to remove the device.

6 Click OK.
7 Click Close.
8 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out.
9 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card pops out.

10 Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot.
11 If the PC Card release button is still out, push it back in.

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Using the Memory Stick Media

Your computer supports the Memory Stick media. Memory Stick media is a compact, portable, and versatile device especially
designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products, such as digital cameras, mobile phones and other
devices. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage.

See the printed Specifications Guide to see which Memory Stick media types are compatible with your model and if there
are any limitations.

❑ You can purchase Memory Stick media from the Sony Style website (www.sonystyle-europe.com

dealer.
❑ Detailed information about which VAIO computers are compatible with which Memory Stick media can be found at

www.vaio-link.com

.

Write-protecting a Memory Stick Media

Some versions of Memory Stick media are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from
accidental erasure or overwriting.

Move the tab horizontally or vertically
be saved on the Memory Stick media. When the erasure prevention switch is on, data can be read from but not saved on the
Memory Stick media.

*

to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can

), or from your local Sony

* Some versions of Memory Stick media do not have an erasure prevention switch.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Inserting a Memory Stick Media

There are two ways you can insert a Memory Stick media into your computer:

❑ Using the Memory Stick media slot;
❑ Using a PC Card slot. To do this, you need an optional PC Card adapter.

You can only insert one Memory Stick media at a time.

To insert a Memory Stick media using the Memory Stick media slot

1 Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot.
2 If the computer is equipped with the Memory Stick media slot cover, lift the slot cover.
3 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place.

The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and appears in your My Computer window as a local

drive, under the appropriate letter (depending on the configuration of the computer).

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✍

The location of the Memory Stick media slot depends on the model you purchased. See Locating Controls and Ports (page 14).

Using Your VAIO Computer

!

Be sure to hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction as you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging the computer

or the Memory Stick media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot if it does not insert smoothly.

Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the Memory Stick media slot. Inserting the media improperly may damage the computer.

✍

The computer supports Memory Stick Duo media. For more information on Memory Stick Duo media, visit the Memory Stick web site at

http://www.memorystick.com/en/

.

To view the contents of the Memory Stick media

1 Click Start and then My Computer to open the My Computer window.

2 Double-click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the Memory Stick media.

To format a Memory Stick media

Use the Memory Stick Formatter software. See the help file on the Memory Stick Formatter software for details.

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Removing a Memory Stick Media

To remove a Memory Stick media using the Memory Stick media slot

1 Check that the Memory Stick media indicator is off.
2 Push the Memory Stick media in toward the computer.

The Memory Stick media ejects.

3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot.

!

Always remove the Memory Stick media gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly.

Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Memory Stick media indicator is turned on. If you do, you may lose data. Large volumes of data may

take time to load, so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Stick media.

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Using the Internet

Setting Up a Dial-up Internet Connection

Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line via a telephone cable (not
supplied). Once you set up your telephone cable, you're ready to connect to the Internet.

To connect a telephone cable

1 Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the modem port on the computer.
2 Plug the other end into the wall jack (2).

✍

The computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a

private branch exchange (PBX). Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem.

If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter, the modem or connected device may not work properly.

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To set up a dial-up connection to the Internet

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and click New Connection Wizard.

The New Connection Wizard appears.

2 Click Next. If the Location Information window appears, follow the on-screen instructions.
3 If it is not already selected, click to select Connect to the Internet, and click Next.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

Using the Sony Wireless LAN (WLAN), all your digital devices with built-in WLAN functionality communicate freely with each
other through a powerful network. A WLAN is a network in which a user can connect to a local area network (LAN) through
a wireless (radio) connection. So there is no need anymore to pull cables or wires through walls and ceilings.

The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities, but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming. You can still
access information, internet/intranet and network resources, even in the middle of a meeting, or as you move from one place
to another.

You can communicate without an Access Point, which means that you can communicate between a limited number of
computers (ad-hoc). Or you can communicate through an Access Point, which allows you to create a full infrastructure
network (infrastructure).

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✍

In some countries, using WLAN products may be restricted by the local regulations (e.g. limited number of channels). Therefore, before activating the

WLAN functionality, read the Regulations Guide carefully. Channel selection is explained further in this manual (see Wireless LAN Channel Selection

(page 71)).

WLAN uses the IEEE802.11b/g standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes the encryption method: Wired Equivalent Privacy

(WEP), which is a security protocol and WiFi Protected Access (WPA - Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, WiFi Protected Access is a

specification of standards based, interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing WiFi

networks. WPA has been designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption TKIP (Temporal

Key Integrity Protocol) in addition to user authentication using 802.1X and EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol)). Data encryption protects the

vulnerable wireless link between clients and Access Points. Besides that, there are other typical LAN security mechanisms to ensure privacy, such as:

password protection, end-to-end encryption, virtual private networks, and authentication.

Wireless LAN devices using the IEEE802.11a standard and the ones using the IEEE802.11b or g standard cannot communicate because the frequencies

are different.

IEEE802.11b: The standard speed is 11 Mbps, or about 30 to 100 times faster than a standard dial up.

IEEE802.11a/g: The standard speed is 54 Mbps, or about 5 times faster than a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE802.11b standard.

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Communicating without an Access Point (Ad-hoc)

An ad-hoc network is a network in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other
central controller or Access Point. Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network. You can set up an
ad-hoc network easily at home.

To communicate without an Access Point (ad-hoc)

1 Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

*1

On models with the Bluetooth functionality

Switch window. Select the Enable 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN check box and click OK.
2 Click Start and then Control Panel.
3 Click Network and Internet Connections.
4 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.
5 Right-click Wireless Network Connection, then click Properties.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.
6 Select the Wireless Networks tab.
7 Click the Add… button.

The Wireless network properties window appears.

*2

8 Enter a Network name (SSID)

.

You can choose a 32-digit alphanumeric name.

9 Select Open from the Network Authentication drop-down box.
10 Select WEP from the Data Encryption drop-down box.
11 Deselect the The key is provided for me automatically option button.

Some information becomes visible.
12 Enter the Network key

*2

.

The network key should be 5 or 13 alphanumeric characters or 10 or 26 hexadecimal

whatever you want.

, double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device

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*3

characters long. You can choose

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13 Enter exactly the same Network key again, for confirmation.
14 Select the check box This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network; wireless access points are not used at the

bottom of the screen.
15 Click OK.

Your Network name appears in the Preferred networks.
16 Click Advanced.

The Advanced window appears.

17 Select the Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only option button.
18 Click Close.
19 Click OK.

The computer is ready to communicate with another computer.

*1

See the printed Specifications Guide to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality.

*2

If you want to communicate between two or more computers, you need to configure all these computers the exact same way. This means that you need to enter the same
Network name and the same Network key on all computers as on the first computer you configure.

*3

Hexadecimal: A number representation using the digits 0-9, with their usual meaning, plus the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent hexadecimal digits with values of (decimal)
10 to 15.

✍

An ad-hoc network does not support WPA.

!

In France, only certain channels are legally allowed when using WLAN outdoors. For more information, see the Regulations Guide.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To disconnect from a computer-to-computer (ad-hoc) network

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.
2 Click Network and Internet Connections.
3 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.
4 In the right panel under LAN or High-Speed Internet, double-click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection Status window appears.
5 Click Properties.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.
6 On the Wireless Networks tab, click Advanced.

The Advanced window appears.
7 Click to select Any available network (access point preferred), and click Close.
8 Click OK.
9 Click Close.
10 Turn off the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

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Communicating with an Access Point (Infrastructure)

An infrastructure network is a network that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an Access
Point, for example the Sony Access Point. The Access Point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a central
controller for the Wireless LAN. The Access Point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices
within a specific range.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect to a wireless network

1 Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

*

On models with the Bluetooth functionality

Switch window. Select the Enable 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN check box and click OK.
2 Click Start and then Control Panel.
3 Click Network and Internet Connections.
4 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.
5 In the right panel under LAN or High-Speed Internet, double-click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection window appears.
6 Select the network you want to use.
7 Enter the Network Key.
8 Click Connect.

After 30 seconds, the connection is established.

* See the printed Specifications Guide to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality.

For more information about setting up an access point, see the documentation supplied with your Access Point.

, double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device

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The WPA key needs to contain at least 8 characters.

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Wireless LAN Channel Selection

In an 802.11b/g configuration, channel 1 to 13 can be used.

(a) With an Access Point ("Infrastructure")

❑ The channel used will be the channel selected by the Access Point.

!

For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the Access Point, see the access point manual.

(b) Without an Access Point ("ad-hoc")

❑ If the Wireless connection is initiated by the VAIO computer, channel 11 will be selected.

!

In France, only certain channels are legally allowed when using WLAN outdoors. For more information, see the Regulations Guide.

❑ If the Wireless connection is initiated by a peer Wireless LAN equipment, the Wireless LAN communication will make use

of the channel selected by the peer Wireless LAN equipment.

Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

The 2.4 GHz bandwidth used by wireless LAN compatible devices is also used by other various devices. Although technologies to minimize interference

from other devices that uses the same bandwidth are employed on wireless LAN compatible devices, such interference may cause lower

communication speed, narrower communication range, or broken wireless connections.

The communication speed varies depending on the distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the device

configuration, the radio conditions, and the software in use. In addition, communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions.

The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the

radio conditions, the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, and the software in use.

Deploying IEEE802.11b and IEEE802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference.

Taking this into consideration, the IEEE802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with

IEEE802.11b products.

When the communication speed is not as fast as expected, changing the wireless channel on the access point may increase the communication speed.

!

In France, only certain channels are legally allowed when using WLAN outdoors. For more information, see the Regulations Guide.

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Using the Bluetooth Functionality

The Bluetooth functionality is available on selected models only. See the printed Specifications Guide to see whether your
model supports the Bluetooth functionality.

You can establish wireless communication between your computer and other Bluetooth devices such as another computer
or a mobile phone. You can transfer data between these devices without cables and up to 10 meters range in open space.

To connect to a Bluetooth device

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.

2 Double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window.
3 Select the Enable Bluetooth Device option.
4 Click OK.

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Notes on using the Bluetooth functionality

❑ The data transfer rate varies, depending on the following conditions:

❑ Obstacles, such as walls, located between devices

❑ Distance between devices

❑ Material used in walls

❑ Proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones

❑ Radio frequency interference and other environmental conditions

❑ Device configuration

❑ Type of software application

❑ Type of operating system

❑ Use of both Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functionalities at the same time on the computer

❑ Size of file being exchanged
❑ Note that due to limitations of the Bluetooth standard, large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer

due to electromagnetic interference from the environment.
❑ All Bluetooth devices must be certified to make sure that the applicable standard requirements are maintained. Even if

standards are met, individual device performance, specifications, and operation procedures can vary. Data exchange may

not be possible in all situations.

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❑ The 2.4 GHz band with which Bluetooth devices or wireless LAN devices work, is used by various devices. Bluetooth

devices use the technology to minimize the interference from other devices that use the same wave length.

Communication speed and distances can be inferior to the standard values. Interference from other devices may also stop

communications. Do not simultaneously use the Bluetooth functionality and wireless communication devices which use

the 2.4 GHz band, such as a wireless LAN PC Card.

✍

Read the Regulations Guide before using the Bluetooth functionality.

❑ The Bluetooth functionality may not work depending on the third party devices or the software version used by third party

companies.

Bluetooth Security

The Bluetooth wireless technology has an authentication function, which allows you to determine whom you choose to
communicate. With the authentication function, you can avoid any anonymous Bluetooth device to access your computer.

The first time two Bluetooth devices communicate, a common Passkey (a password required for authentication) should be
determined for both devices to be registered. Once a device is registered, there is no need to re-enter the Passkey.

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Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device

You can connect your computer to a Bluetooth device such as another computer, a mobile phone, a PDA, a headset, a
mouse, or a digital camera without the use of any cables.

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To communicate with another Bluetooth device

To communicate with another Bluetooth device, you need first to set up the Bluetooth functionality. For setting up and using
the Bluetooth functionality, see the help file on the Bluetooth Utility software.

To see the help file

1 Right-click the Bluetooth icon on the taskbar and select Bluetooth Settings from the menu.
2 Select Help from the Help menu.

✍

The passkey can be different each time, but must be the same at both ends.

For certain devices, such as a mouse, no passkey can be entered.

Stopping the Bluetooth Connection

To stop the Bluetooth connection, turn off the WIRELESS switch. The Bluetooth indicator turns off.

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Using Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by using the various ports on your unit.

❑ Connecting a Port Replicator (page 79)
❑ Using the Mouse (page 92)
❑ Connecting External Speakers (page 95)
❑ Using the Remote Commander (page 101)
❑ Connecting an External Display (page 104)
❑ Selecting Display Modes (page 112)
❑ Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 115)
❑ Connecting an External Microphone (page 118)
❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 119)
❑ Connecting a Printer (page 122)
❑ Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 124)
❑ Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 126)

78

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

79

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Port Replicator

Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer and an external
display.

A port replicator may be supplied with your computer, depending on the model you purchased. If not, you can additionally
purchase an optional port replicator.

Locating Ports on the Port Replicator

A/V port replicator for VGN-A series models

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

A Composite Audio In jacks (page 81)
B Composite Video In jack (page 81)
C S Video In port (page 81)

D VHF/UHF port
E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

F Monitor (VGA) port (page 105)
G Volume jack (page 97)
H DVI-D port (page 105)
I Speaker jacks (right and left) (page 97)
J Optical Out port (Output frequency 96 kHz/48 kHz/44 kHz/

Vari able)

K Network (Ethernet) port (1000BASE-T / 100BASE-TX /

10BASE-T) (page 126)

L Composite Audio Out jacks (page 110)
M Composite Video Out jack (page 110)
N S Video Out port (page 110)
O Printer port (page 122)

P Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports
Q DC In port (page 29)

*1

The shape of the VHF/UHF port varies depending on the country or area of
your residency.

*2

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*1

(page 53)

*2

(page 119)

*2

(page 119)

80

✍

The printer port on this port replicator is intended for printer connections only.

Using Peripheral Devices

✍

To the A/V port replicator, you can connect an external video/audio source such as a video camera, VCR or DVD player. Connect your video/audio

device's video cable to the S Video In or Composite Video In jack and the audio cable to the Composite Audio In Jacks.

Business port replicator for VGN-A series models

A

Composite Audio In jacks (page 81)

B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports
C Monitor (VGA) port (page 105)
D DVI-D port (page 105)
E Optical Out port (Output frequency 96 kHz/48 kHz/44 kHz/

Vari able)

F Network (Ethernet) port (1000BASE-T / 100BASE-TX /

10BASE-T) (page 126)

G Composite Audio Out jacks (page 110)
H Composite Video Out jack (page 110)
I S Video Out port (page 110)
J Printer port (page 122)

K Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports
L DC In port (page 29)

* Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*

(page 119)

*

(page 119)

81

nN

✍

To the business port replicator, you can connect an external audio device such as a CD player. Connect your audio device's audio cable to the Composite

Audio In jack.

!

When a video cable is connected to each of the S Video Out and Composite Video Out jacks, the Composite Video Out jack is disabled.

Using Peripheral Devices

A/V port replicator for VGN-FS series models

A

Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports*1 (page 119)

B Headphones/Speakers jack (page 95)
C Composite Video In jack (page 82)

D Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

*1

(page 119)

E DC In port (page 29)
F Network (Ethernet) port (100BASE-TX / 10BASE-T) (page 126)
G Monitor (VGA) port (page 105)
H Optical Out port (Output frequency 96 kHz/48 kHz/44 kHz/

Vari able)

I Composite Audio In jacks (page 82)
J S Video In port (page 82)

K VHF/UHF port

*1

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*2

The shape of the VHF/UHF port varies depending on the country or area of
your residency.

*2

(page 53)

✍

To the A/V port replicator, you can connect an external video/audio source such as a video camera, VCR or DVD player. Connect your video/audio

device's video cable to the S Video In or Composite Video In jack and the audio cable to the Composite Audio In Jacks.

82

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

Business port replicator for VGN-FS series models

A DC In port (page 29)
B Network (Ethernet) port (100BASE-TX / 10BASE-T) (page 126)
C Monitor (VGA) port (page 105)
D Printer port (page 122)

E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

* Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

!

The port replicator can be powered only through the AC adapter supplied with the computer. Do not unplug the AC adapter from the port replicator and

the AC outlet while using the port replicator; this may cause data damage or hardware malfunctions.

✍

The printer port on the port replicator is intended for printer connections only.

*

(page 119)

83

nN

Attaching Your Computer to the Port Replicator

To attach your computer to the port replicator

VGN-A series models

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.
2 Plug the power cord (1) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (2) into the DC In port (3) on the port replicator (4).

84

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

4 Open the port replicator connector cover.

5 Align the bottom connector of the computer with the connector on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into

place.

85

6 Slide the lock switch to LOCK.

7 Turn on the computer.

86

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

VGN-FS series models

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.
2 Plug the power cord (1) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (2) into the DC In port (3) on the port replicator (4).

4 Open the port replicator connector cover.

87

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

5 Align the bottom connector of the computer with the connector on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into

place.

6 Turn on the computer.

!

When the A/V port replicator is attached to the computer, you cannot access the DC In port, the monitor (VGA) port, the third USB port from the front,

and the network (Ethernet) port on the computer.

!

Use the AC adapter supplied with the computer or the optional Sony adapter.

88

Do not move the computer while attached to the port replicator; this may detach the port replicator and cause damage to the port replicator and the

computer.

Disconnecting Your Computer from the Port Replicator

!

To prevent loss of unsaved data, be sure to turn off the computer before disconnecting it from the port replicator.

To disconnect your computer from the port replicator

VGN-A series models

1 Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals.
2 Slide the lock switch to UNLOCK.

89

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

3 Lift the computer away from the port replicator.

4 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

90

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

Using Peripheral Devices

VGN-FS series models

1 Lift the computer away from the port replicator.

2 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

✍

It is extremely important to close the port replicator connector cover after disconnecting the computer from the port replicator. If the cover is left open,

dust may get inside and damage the computer.

To disconnect the port replicator completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.

91

nN

92

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

Using the Mouse

Your computer may be supplied with a wireless optical mouse, which has no cables to plug in and uses a light-emitting diode

*

(LED) instead of a ball. You can use the mouse anywhere you feel comfortable within a range of approximately 80 cm
computer. See the printed Specifications Guide to see whether your model is supplied with a wireless mouse.

A wireless optical mouse requires an appropriate surface texture in order to provide precision pointing and tracking.

❑ Use surfaces such as plain paper, card stock, or fabric that have minimal repetitive patterns.
❑ Avoid surfaces such as mirrors, smooth glass, or magazines that have half- tone printing.

* Effective usage distance depends on the environment.

A Left button

Click or double-click the left button to select items. To drag and
drop items, hold the left button down while sliding the mouse,
then release the button to drop the item.

B Central wheel

Rotate the central wheel to scroll up or down a page. Press the
wheel once to lock the scroll action and control the movement
by moving the entire mouse (the scroll function is available only
with applications that support it).

C Right button

Press the right button once to display a context-sensitive
shortcut menu (not always an active function).

D Power switch

Slide the switch to turn the mouse on and off. This will help you
save battery power.

E CONNECT button

Press to enable communication between your VAIO computer
and the wireless mouse.

of the

93

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

Before You Use the Mouse

Before using the wireless mouse, you must establish communication between your computer and the mouse. Two batteries
are supplied with your computer for use in the wireless mouse.

To connect the wireless mouse

1 Insert two AA batteries into the wireless mouse as shown.

2 Turn on the computer.
3 Press the CONNECT button (1) on the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

4 Turn over the wireless mouse, slide the power switch to the ON position, and press the CONNECT button.

Communication between the wireless mouse and the computer should now be established.

!

Step 3 and 4 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other.

✍

The two AA batteries supplied for use in the wireless mouse are identified by a sticker "For mouse" on the packaging.

If your wireless mouse does not operate properly, the batteries may need to be replaced. If your wireless mouse is not being used for an extended

period of time, remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage.

Adjusting the Mouse Functions

94

nN

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.
2 Click Printers and Other Hardware.
3 Click Mouse.

The Mouse Properties window appears.
4 Change the settings.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting External Speakers

A pair of external speakers may be supplied with your computer, depending on the model you purchased, for the
enhancement of sound quality.

See the printed Specifications Guide to see whether your model is supplied with external speakers.

External speakers for VGN-A series models

A Volume control

The right speaker is equipped with the volume control. Turn this
control clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the speaker
volume.

B Infrared receiver for remote commander

The left speaker is equipped with the infrared receiver for
communications with the remote commander. Point your
remote commander to this sensor for operations.

95

nN

External speakers for VGN-FS series models

Using Peripheral Devices

A Headphones jack
B Volume control

Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the speaker
volume.

C Power button

Turns on and off the speakers.

96

nN

To connect the supplied external speakers

External speakers for VGN-A series models

1 Attach the computer to an A/V port replicator.
2 Plug the volume cable (1) of the speaker to the Volume jack on the port replicator.
3 Plug the speaker cables (2) to the Speaker jacks.
4 Plug the USB cable (3) to one of the USB ports.

97

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

!

To use a remote commander for volume control, make sure to connect the speaker's USB cable to the USB port.

Make sure to place the external speakers in a stable position.

Do not grasp the depression on the front of the speaker to take hold of it.

98

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

External speakers for VGN-FS series models

1 Attach the computer to an A/V port replicator.
2 Plug the power cord (1) to the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (2) to the right speaker (3).
4 Plug the cable from the left speaker (4) to the speaker L jack on the right speaker.
5 Plug the speaker cable (5) to the headphones jack on the port replicator.

99

nN

Using Peripheral Devices

You can also enhance the sound quality of the computer by directly connecting other external speakers.

To connect other external speakers

1 Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphones jack (2) i.
2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker (3).
3 Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.

✍

Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use.

!

Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; their magnetic field may damage the data on the disks.

100

nN

Using Peripheral Devices