Sony VGN-AR130G, VGN-AR150G, VGN-AR170, VGN-AR170G, VGN-AR170GU1 User Guide

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User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-AR100 Series

Contents

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

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................6

Ergonomic Considerations...........................................................................................................................................9

Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................11

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................12

About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................19

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................21

Using the Battery Pack ..............................................................................................................................................23

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................27

Using Your VAIO Computer .............................................................................................................................................28

Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................29

Using the Touch Pad .................................................................................................................................................31

Using Special-function Buttons ..................................................................................................................................32

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...................................................................................................................34

Using the Optical Disc Drive ......................................................................................................................................35

Using the TV Function ...............................................................................................................................................46

Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................61

Using the ExpressCard Media ...................................................................................................................................64

Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................68

Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................71

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................74

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................75

Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................84

Using Peripheral Devices .................................................................................................................................................89

Connecting a Multi Function Bay Docking Station .....................................................................................................90

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................................................................................................99

Connecting an External Display...............................................................................................................................100

Selecting Display Modes..........................................................................................................................................109

Using the Multiple Monitors Function.......................................................................................................................110

Connecting an External Microphone........................................................................................................................112

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device....................................................................................................113

Connecting a Printer ................................................................................................................................................116

Connecting an i.LINK Device ...................................................................................................................................117

Connecting to a Network (LAN) ...............................................................................................................................119

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ................................................................................................................................121

Setting the Password ...............................................................................................................................................122

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central .........................................................................................................124

Using the Power Saving Modes...............................................................................................................................125

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ....................................................................................................130

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................132

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................133

Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................138

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................139

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................140

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................141

On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...........................................................................................................143

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................143

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................144

On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................145

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................146

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................146

On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................147

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................148

Computer .................................................................................................................................................................150

System Security .......................................................................................................................................................158

Battery......................................................................................................................................................................160

Built-in MOTION EYE Camera.................................................................................................................................162

Internet.....................................................................................................................................................................165

Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................167

Bluetooth Technology ..............................................................................................................................................170

CDs and DVDs.........................................................................................................................................................174

Display .....................................................................................................................................................................179

Printing.....................................................................................................................................................................183

Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................184

Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................185

Speakers..................................................................................................................................................................186

Touch Pad................................................................................................................................................................187

Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................188

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

PC Cards .................................................................................................................................................................190

Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................191

Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................192

Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................193

Multi Function Bay Docking Station .........................................................................................................................194

Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................195

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................195

Program Support Information...................................................................................................................................198

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.

Documentation

Your documentation includes printed information and user guides to read on your VAIO computer.

Printed Documentation

❑ Welcome mat — Contains an overview of connections, setting up information, etc. ❑ Safety information — Contains safety guidelines and owner information.

Before Use

Non-printed Documentation

❑ User Guide (this manual) — Contains features of your computer. It also includes information about the software programs

included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems.

❑ Specifications — The online Specifications describe the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO computer.

To view the online Specifications:

1 Connect to the Internet. 2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/

at http://www.sony.ca/support American countries or areas.

❑ VAIO Recovery Guide — Provides information about restoring individual software programs, software drivers, and drive

partition(s) or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings. To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAIO Documentation. 3 Click VAI O Recovery Guide.

❑ RAID guide (Selected models only) — Provides an overview of RAID systems and the various RAID levels (or types) that

can be configured with your VAIO computer. It lists detailed procedures for using the RAID Recovery program to configure the hard disk drives, change your computer's RAID array, or to remove the RAID configuration. Additional procedures are also provided for using the VAIO Recovery utility and the Intel Storage Utility programs.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAI O Documentation. 3 Click RAID guide.

for customers in Canada, or at http://esupport.sony.com/ES/ for customers in Latin

for customers in USA,

❑ MCE guide (Selected models only) — Provides information about using the Windows XP Media Center Edition

operating system. To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAI O Documentation. 3 Click MCE guide.

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.

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.

Before the first computer startup, do not connect any new hardware that did not normally come with your computer. Make sure to start up your computer with only the supplied accessories connected and set up your system. Upon completion, connect one device (for example, a printer, external hard disk drive, scanner, and so on) at a time, following the manufacturer's instructions.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 12) ❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 19) ❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 21) ❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 23) ❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 27)

Locating Controls and Ports

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

Getting Started

Front

Getting Started

A Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 34) B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 19) C LCD screen (page 139) D Keyboard (page 29) E Built-in speakers F VAIO logo lamp (page 32) G Power button / Power indicator (page 19) H Touch pad (page 31) I Power indicator (page 19) J Battery indicator (page 19) K Hard disk drive indicator (page 19) L Memory Stick PRO/Duo media indicator (page 19) M LCD screen lid LOCK/RELEASE switch

Make sure to slide this switch to the LOCK position before moving your computer.

N Built-in microphone (monaural) O SD memory card indicator (page 19)

P Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot

(page 69)

Q SD memory card slot (page 71) R WIRELESS switch (page 75) S WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 19)

T Bluetooth indicator

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

On selected models only.

(page 19)

Getting Started

Num lock indicator (page 19)

A B Caps lock indicator (page 19) C Scroll lock indicator (page 19) D S1/S2 buttons (page 32) E VOLUME buttons (page 32) F Disc drive eject button (page 35) G Muting button (page 32) / Muting indicator (page 19)

H CHANNEL buttons I TV REC button

(page 32)

J Play/Pause button (page 32) K Stop button (page 32) L Previous track button (page 32) M Next track button (page 32) N AV MODE button (page 32)

* On selected models only.

Back

Getting Started

A VHF/UHF port

(page 46)

B Air vent C Battery connector (page 23)

D Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port E DC IN port (page 21)

On selected models only.

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

(page 113)

Right

Getting Started

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

(page 113)

B PC Card release button (page 63) C PC Card slot (page 61)

D ExpressCard E Universal ExpressCard F i.LINK G AV In jack H S VIDEO INPUT port I S VIDEO OUTPUT port

media release button (page 67)

slot*2 (page 65)

(IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 117)

*3 *4

(page 54)

*3 *4 *5

(page 54)

*5 *6

(page 105)

J HDMI port (page 105) K Monitor (VGA) port

(page 101)

L Network (Ethernet) port (page 119) M Modem port (page 74)

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

Referred to as the ExpressCard slot hereinafter.

On selected models only.

Parallel use of the AV In jack and the S VIDEO INPUT port will direct video signals to the S VIDEO INPUT port.

Referred to as the S VIDEO IN port and the S VIDEO OUT port hereinafter.

Disabled when your computer is attached to the optional multi function bay docking station.

Left

Getting Started

A OPTICAL OUT port (Output frequency 96 kHz/48 kHz/44 kHz/

Vari able) Connect digital equipment such as an AV amplifier.

B Microphone jack (page 112) C Headphones jack (page 99) D Optical disc drive (page 35) E Substitute drive eject button (page 35)/

Optical disc drive indicator (page 19)

F Manual eject hole (page 174) G Security slot

Bottom

Getting Started

A Multi function bay docking station connector (page 92) B Air vents

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

Muting % Illuminates when the volume is turned off.

Built-in MOTION EYE camera Illuminates while the built-in MOTION EYE camera is in use.

SD memory card Illuminates when data is read from or written to the media in the SD memory card slot. (Do not enter Standby

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

Hard disk

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.

mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the memory card is not being used.

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.

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.

Indicator Functions

Scroll lock

Bluetooth technology

WIRELESS LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running.

* On selected models only.

Press the Scr Lk key to change how you scroll the display. Normal scrolling resumes when the Scroll lock 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.

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 (3). 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 multi function bay

docking station.

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

Getting Started

✍

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 computer for a long period of time, put the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 128). This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down or resuming.

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

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

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

Getting Started

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

✍

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

This computer is designed to operate only with genuine Sony batteries.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

This section describes how to get the most out of using your computer.

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 29) ❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 31) ❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 32) ❑ Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera (page 34) ❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 35) ❑ Using the TV Function (page 46) ❑ Using PC Cards (page 61) ❑ Using the ExpressCard Media (page 64) ❑ Using the Memory Stick Media (page 68) ❑ Using Other Memory Cards (page 71) ❑ Using the Internet (page 74) ❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 75) ❑ Using the Bluetooth Functionality (page 84)

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.

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

✍

Some functions are not available until Windows is launched.

Combinations/Feature Functions

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

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.

Fn + /T (F7): display output

Fn + (F10): zoom

Toggles among your computer screen, an external display, and simultaneous output to both.

When the computer is attached to the optional multi function bay docking station, this shortcut key toggles between your computer screen and the external display(s) connected to the docking station.

Changes the screen resolution to magnify/restore your computer's screen view.

✍

The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view, as it is implemented by applying a lower resolution to the computer 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 your computer's screen view is magnified, switching the view to the external display disables the function and restores the standard view.

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + (F12): Hibernate

Using Your VAIO Computer

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 button to turn on the power. For details on power management, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 125).

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 on the touch pad 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.

Special-function button Functions

CHANNEL buttons*

TV REC button

Play/Pause button

Stop button

Previous track button

Next track button

AV MODE button

S1/S2 buttons

Changes TV channels up and down.

Starts TV recording.

Starts media playback.

Stops media playback or TV recording. To resume playback or recording, press again.

Plays the previous chapter/movie in the DVD or the previous song in the CD.

Plays the next chapter/movie in the DVD or the next song in the CD.

Launches AV Mode Launcher. You can change this button assignment with the AV Mode Button Settings utility. To start this utility, press and hold the AV M ODE button. See the help file on the AV Mode Button Settings utility for more information. You need administrator rights on the computer to change the AV MODE button assignment.

By default, the S1 button displays the Logo Lamp Control window for specifying your preference for the on/ off status of the VAIO logo lamp; and the S2 button activates and deactivates the audio filtering feature of the SonicStage Mastering Studio software. You can change these button assignments on the window for changing the S button assignments. To display this window, press and hold either button or launch and navigate through VAIO Central.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Special-function button Functions

VOLUME buttons

Disc drive eject button

Muting button

* On selected models only.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Decrease (-) and increase (+) the volume.

Ejects the optical disc drive tray. If this button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.

Turns the volume on and off.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera

Your computer is equipped with a built-in MOTION EYE camera. The built-in MOTION EYE camera adds video functionality to instant messaging software and video editing software, for

example Windows Messenger and Windows MovieMaker. Turning on the computer activates the built-in MOTION EYE camera, so the computer is ready for a video conference using

such software. Note that launching or exiting your instant messaging or video editing software does not activate or deactivate the built-in

MOTION EYE camera, respectively. Make sure that the camera is activated before using the software.

✍

The built-in MOTION EYE camera cannot be shared by more than one software application. If another software application is using the camera, exit the

application before using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.

The viewer window may show some noises, for example horizontal streaks, if you view a rapid-moving object. This is normal and does not indicate a

malfunction.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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 disc drive eject button (1) to open the drive.

The tray slides out.

✍

If the disc drive eject button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.

If power supply to the optical disc drive is disabled by VAIO Power Management, it will take a while to eject the drive tray. Note that the substitute drive

eject button is disabled when the optical disc drive is not powered.

When recovering your system, turn on the computer and press the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive. Insert your Recovery Disc

into the optical disc drive, turn off the computer, and then turn on the computer again to launch the VAIO Recovery utility.

3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up and gently push it until the disc clicks into place.

4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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

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

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

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

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

DVD±RW (Supporting DVD+R DL) CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

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

DVD±RW/+R DL/RAM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD+RW, and DVD-RAM

DVD±RW (Supporting DVD±R DL) CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

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

DVD±RW/±R DL/RAM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD+RW, and DVD-RAM

—

CD-R and CD-RW

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

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

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

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

Using Your VAIO Computer

Optical disc drive Plays Records to

Blu-ray CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

BD-ROM stands for Blu-ray Disc-Read Only Memory in version 1.1 format.

BD-R stands for Blu-ray Disc-Recordable in version 1.1 format.

BD-RE stands for Blu-ray Disc-Rewritable in version 2.1 format.

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer), DVD-R DL (Dual Layer), DVD+RW, DVD-RAM,

BD-ROM

, BD-R*2, and BD-RE

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

DVD+RW, DVD-RAM, BD-R

, and BD-RE

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.

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 are 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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

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

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

Writing data to DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) recording.

The DVD±RW/RAM disc drive on your computer does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with removable cartridge.

Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM discs (2.6 GB) compliant with DVD-RAM version 1.0 is not supported.

Supports writing data to BD-R 1.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB) and BD-RE 2.1 discs

(single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB). The Blu-ray drive on your computer does not support BD-

RE 1.0 discs and Blu-ray cartridge discs.

Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW discs is not supported.

You may need to connect to the Internet when playing copyright protected Blu-ray discs.

As with other optical media devices, circumstances may limit compatibility or prevent Blu-ray disc playback. VAIO computers may not support movie

playback on packaged media recorded in AVC or VC1 formats at high bit rates.

Video recording to Blu-ray Disc media is done in MPEG2 format only.

Region settings are required for Movies and BD-ROM contents. If the region setting and the region of the disc do not match, playback is not possible.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Notes on writing data to a disc

❑ To make the data on a disc readable on an optical disc drive, you need to close the session before 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 to a disc. ❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data to 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 affix an adhesive label to 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 to power saving modes while the computer is playing a DVD. ❑ Region code indicators are labeled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the

disc. If the DVD is labeled "all," this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the world. If the region code of

your residence area is different from the label on the DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on your

computer.

You can change the DVD region code only a limited number of times. When you have exceeded this number, the drive's DVD region code is permanently

assigned and you will not be able to change it again. Reconfiguring the computer does not reset this count.

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.

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❑ If your computer has the Wireless LAN functionality 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 a disc into the optical disc drive. 2 If nothing appears on the desktop, 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

See the online Specifications to find the type of your optical disc drive, and then Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs

(page 37) to find about the supported disc media.

To copy files to a disc

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

1 Insert a blank disc into the optical disc drive.

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

2 Right-click Start and then click Explore. 3 In the Folders panel on the left, locate the file(s) or folder(s) you want to copy, right-click the file(s) or folder(s), point to

Send To, and then click the optical disc drive 4 Close the window. 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 a DVD into the optical disc drive. 3 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to open a DVD program to play the

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

Copying Files to DVDs

The DVD writing function is available on selected models only. See the online Specifications to find the type of your optical disc drive, and then Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs (page 37) to find about the supported disc media.

To copy files to a disc

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer. 2 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive. 3 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to open a DVD program you want to

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

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Using the TV Function

Your computer may have a TV tuner board installed along with the Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition operating system to enhance your computing experience. See the online Specifications to find whether your model is equipped with the TV tuner board.

Media Center provides you with a wide range of TV, DVD, and video viewing, as well as music recording and playback. This section describes how to set up your TV, set-top box, and other equipment. See the online MCE guide for more information on Media Center features.

To access this on-screen guide

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central. 2 Click VAIO Documentation. 3 Click MCE guide.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Setting Up TV Connections

The following connections may not be available depending on the country or area of your residency.

The best method of connecting your computer system, TV monitor or display, and cable service access, depends on the type of cable connection available in your home.

TV signal reception strength will vary widely depending on service availability in your area as well as the type of connection available.

One primary cable to connect the computer to a TV cable or antenna is the TV coaxial cable (only supplied with selected models). One end connects to the computer's VHF/UHF port, and the other end connects to the cable service access or antenna.

A TV coaxial cable

Connecting to standard cable access (CATV)

To connect in CATV mode (Option 1)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). 2 Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port (3) on the computer.

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To connect in CATV mode (Option 2)

1 Connect the two metal hooks on a 75-ohm/300-ohm RCA transformer cable (1) (not supplied) to the screw-type grips at

your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). 2 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (3) to the transformer end of the RCA transformer cable (1). Connect the other

end to the VHF/UHF port (4) on the computer.

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Connecting to a standard antenna

You can connect your computer to an indoor/outdoor antenna system, using Option 1 or Option 2 from the previous section, Connecting to standard cable access (CATV) (page 48). Depending on the type of antenna system in your home, your connection may require a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (not supplied) to connect the computer and the indoor/outdoor antenna system.

✍

If you are connecting to an indoor/outdoor antenna, you may need to reorient the antenna for best reception. Move the antenna cable away from other

power sources or connectors to reduce reception interference.

To connect in terrestrial mode (Option 1)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (not supplied) to your antenna outlet (2). Connect the other end to a VHF/UHF

RF combiner/transformer (3) (not supplied).

2 Connect a coaxial cable feed connector (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3). 3 Connect one end of another TV coaxial cable (5) to the feed connector (4). Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port

(6) on the computer.

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To connect in terrestrial mode (Option 2)

1 Connect one end of a 300-ohm twin lead cable (1) (not supplied) to the screw-type grips at your antenna outlet (2).

Connect the other end to the grips on a VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3) (not supplied).

2 Connect a coaxial cable feed connector (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF RF combiner/transformer (3). 3 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (5) to the feed connector (4). Connect the other end to the VHF/UHF port (6) on

the computer.

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Connecting with a cable or satellite set-top box (STB)

You can connect your computer to cable service access that uses a set-top box (cable or satellite). When using the set-top box (STB) setup, you can only change channels through the STB, using its controls or the supplied remote commander.

When using the STB setup: ❑ A standard TV remote control cannot be used to change TV channels. You can use your TV remote control to set the TV

to the channel-out number (channel 3, 4, etc.) or direct video input specified by your cable or satellite service provider. ❑ You may be able to use a universal remote control or commander to change TV channels, if the device is capable of

controlling the STB.

To connect in STB mode (Option 1)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) (not supplied) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). Connect the other

end to the VHF/UHF IN port on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) (3). 2 Connect a second TV coaxial cable (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF OUT port on the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect

the other end to the single-connection end of a splitter device (5) (not supplied).

3 Connect a third TV coaxial cable (6) to the double-connection end of the splitter device (5). Connect the other end to the

VHF/UHF port (7) on the computer. 4 Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable (8) (not supplied) to the double-connection end of the splitter device (5). Connect the

other end to the VHF/UHF port (9) on the rear of your TV monitor or display.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect in STB mode (Option 2)

1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable (1) to your cable service access (wall outlet) (2). Connect the other end to the

VHF/UHF IN port on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) (3). 2 Connect a second TV coaxial cable (4) (not supplied) to the VHF/UHF OUT port on the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect

the other end to the VHF/UHF port (5) on the rear of your TV monitor or display. 3 Connect one end of a stereo A/V cable with triple RCA jacks (6) (not supplied) to the Composite Audio Out (L/R) jacks (7)

and the Video Out jack (8) on the back panel of your set-top box (STB) unit (3), matching the plug and jack colors. Connect

the other end to the AV In jack (9) on the computer. 4 If you prefer better video quality, connect one end of an S Video cable (10) (not supplied) to the S Video Out port (11) on

the back panel of the set-top box (STB) (3). Connect the other end to the S VIDEO IN port (12) on the computer.

✍

Parallel use of the AV In jack (9) and the S VIDEO IN port (12) will direct video signals to the S VIDEO IN port.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Remote Commander

Using Your VAIO Computer

A MY MUSIC button

Press to view and listen to your music playlists.

B MY TV button

Press to view the My TV menu.

C STOP button

Press to stop media playback or TV recording session. PAU SE button Press to pause media playback. Press again to resume playback. FWD button Press to fast-forward media at three speeds. SKIP button Press to move media forward, for example, one audio track, one DVD chapter, and 30 seconds of recorded TV or video. REPLAY button Press to move media backward, for example, one audio track, one DVD chapter, and seven seconds of TV or video. REW button Press to move media backward at two speeds. RECORD button Press to begin recording. PLAY N button Press to begin media playback.

Using Your VAIO Computer

BACK button

Press to return to the previous window.

E VOL buttons

Press to increase (+) or decrease (-) the volume.

F RECORDED TV button

Press to view previously recorded TV programs (In My TV

window).

G GUIDE button

Press to view the TV program guide for your area.

H Alphanumeric buttons

Press to select specific channels or enter text. (Press ENTER or

OK to activate the channel selection.)

I CLEAR button

Press to backspace and delete entered text.

J STANDBY button

Press to place the computer in Standby mode to reduce power

consumption.

K MY PICTURES button

Press to view pictures or a slide show.

L MY VIDEOS button

Press to view videos from your video collection.

M MORE button

Press to view additional options that are available for Media

Center features.

N Directional arrow buttons

Press the M, m, <, and , buttons to move the pointer on the screen. OK button Press OK to select the desired action or window option. When watching full-screen TV, press OK to return to the previous channel. Press OK again to switch between channels.

O CH/PG (Channel/Page) buttons

Press to change or page up/down channels (no number input required).

P START button

Press to open the Media Center Start menu. MUTE button Press to turn off the sound. Press again to restore the sound.

Q DVD MENU button

Press to open the main menu on a DVD.

R LIVE TV button

Press to view TV programming.

S ENTER button

Press to activate feature or action, such as channel selection or return to previous channel. (This button's actions are similar to using the OK button.)

Using Your VAIO Computer

Before you use the remote commander

Before using the remote commander, you need to insert the supplied AA manganese batteries and connect the remote sensor to enable communication between the computer and the remote commander.

To insert batteries

1 Turn the remote commander over. 2 Press in the tab (1) and lift the battery cover up. 3 Insert the supplied two AA batteries into the remote commander.

4 Align the battery cover to the remote commander. 5 Press down until the cover clicks into place.

✍

If the remote commander does not operate properly, you may need to replace the batteries. When the remote commander has not been used for an

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

Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect the remote sensor

1 Choose the USB port (1) you prefer to use. 2 Plug the remote sensor cable (2) into the USB port.

3 Position the remote sensor (3) to enable unobstructed communication with the remote commander.

If you are using a cable or satellite set-top box, you can attach the remote sensor control to the remote sensor, which enables you to control the set-top box with the remote commander.

To connect the remote sensor control

1 Plug the cable from the remote sensor control (1) into either jack (1 or 2) on the back of the remote sensor (2).

2 Remove the adhesive tape cover from the bottom of the remote sensor control (1). 3 Attach the remote sensor control (1) onto the set-top box (3) near the infrared port (4).

Do not cover the infrared port when attaching the remote sensor control.

The remote sensor must be visible in a line-of-sight with the remote commander in order to function properly.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out. 2 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card slot protector pops out. 3 Gently take hold of the protector and pull it out of the slot. 4 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up. 5 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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Insert the PC Card slot protector to protect against debris entering the slot when not using a PC Card. Before moving the computer, make sure to insert

the PC Card slot protector into the slot.

✍

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 that came with your PC Card for more information.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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 6.

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 Close. 7 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out. 8 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card pops out. 9 Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot. 10 If the PC Card release button is still out, push it back in.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the ExpressCard Media

Your computer is equipped with a Universal ExpressCard slot* to accommodate both ExpressCard™/34 (34 mm wide) and

™

ExpressCard camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices.

/54 (54 mm wide) media* as shown below. You can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras,

❑ ExpressCard™/34 media

* Hereinafter, referred to as the ExpressCard slot and the ExpressCard media.

❑ ExpressCard™/54 media

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Inserting an ExpressCard Media

Your computer is delivered with a slot protector in the ExpressCard slot. Remove the slot protector before you use the ExpressCard slot for the first time.

Use care when inserting or removing the ExpressCard media from the slot. Do not force it in or out of the slot.

✍

You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing an ExpressCard media.

To insert an ExpressCard media

1 Locate the ExpressCard slot on the right of the computer. 2 Push the ExpressCard media release button so that the release button pops out. 3 Push the ExpressCard media release button a second time so that the ExpressCard slot protector pops out. 4 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard slot protector and pull it out of the slot. 5 Hold the ExpressCard media with the arrow facing up and toward the ExpressCard slot. 6 Carefully slide the ExpressCard media (1) into the slot until it clicks into place.

Do not force it into the slot.

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Insert the ExpressCard slot protector to protect against debris entering the slot when not using an ExpressCard media. Before moving the computer,

make sure to insert the ExpressCard slot protector into the slot.

✍

If the media or adapter does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.

Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the ExpressCard media manufacturer.

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Removing an ExpressCard Media

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

To remove an ExpressCard media

✍

To remove an ExpressCard media when the computer is off, skip steps 1 to 6.

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 Close. 7 Push the ExpressCard media release button so that the release button pops out. 8 Push the ExpressCard media release button a second time so that the ExpressCard media pops out. 9 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard media and pull it out of the slot. 10 If the ExpressCard media release button is still out, push it back in.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

For the latest information on Memory Stick media, visit the Sony online support Web site at http://esupport.sony.com/EN/

VAIO/ for customers in USA, at http://www.sony.ca/support for customers in Canada, or at http://esupport.sony.com/ES/ for

customers in Latin American countries or areas.

Your computer has been tested and found compatible with the Sony branded Memory Stick media with capacity of up to 4 GB that are available as of

January 2006. However, not all Memory Stick media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

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

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

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Inserting a Memory Stick Media

To insert a Memory Stick media

1 Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot. 2 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into 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).

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 you cannot insert it smoothly.

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

✍

The computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and is equipped with the Memory Stick combo slot that is compatible with both standard- and duo-

size media. For more information on Memory Stick Duo media, visit the Memory Stick web site at http://www.memorystick.com/en/

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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.

Removing a Memory Stick Media

To remove a Memory Stick media

1 Check that the Memory Stick PRO/Duo 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 PRO/Duo 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 Other Memory Cards

In addition to the Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot, your computer is equipped with an SD memory card slot to accommodate other memory cards. You can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices.

Before You Use Memory Cards

The SD memory card slot on your computer supports the following memory cards:

❑ MultiMediaCard (MMC) ❑ Secure Digital (SD)

For the latest information on compatible memory cards, visit the Sony online support Web site regularly.

Always insert the correct memory card into the SD memory card slot.

Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adapter of a different type into the slot. An incompatible memory card or memory card adapter

may be difficult to remove from the slot and can cause damage to your computer.

Use care when inserting or removing a memory card from the slot. Do not force the memory card in or out of the slot.

The SD memory card slot on your computer does not support the high-speed data transfer feature of the SD memory card.

Your computer has been tested and found compatible only with major memory card media available as of January 2006. However, not all memory card

media that meet the same conditions as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

Inserting a Memory Card

To insert a memory card

1 Locate the SD memory card slot on the front of the computer.

2 Hold the memory card with the arrow facing up and pointing toward the memory card slot. 3 Carefully slide the memory card into the slot until it clicks into place.

Do not force the card into the slot.

✍

If the memory card does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.

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Removing a Memory Card

Do not remove a memory card while the SD memory card indicator light is on. The card or its data may become damaged.

To remove a memory card

1 Check that the SD memory card indicator is off. 2 Press the extended part of the memory card, causing it to extend out from the slot. 3 When the card extends, carefully pull it out of the slot.

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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 with a telephone cable (may not supplied). Once you have set up your telephone cable connection, 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.

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).

✍

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 Safety Information carefully.

WLAN uses the IEEE 802.11a

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 IEEE 802.11i 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.

/b/g standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes the encryption method: Wired Equivalent

* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the IEEE 802.11a standard.

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Wireless LAN devices using the IEEE 802.11a standard and the ones using the IEEE 802.11b or g standard cannot communicate because the frequencies

are different.

IEEE 802.11b: The standard speed is 11 Mbps, or about 30 to 100 times faster than a standard dial up.

IEEE 802.11a/g: The standard speed is 54 Mbps, or about 5 times faster than a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE 802.11b standard.

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 use 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 IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference.

Taking this into consideration, the IEEE 802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with

IEEE 802.11b products.

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

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

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

To communicate without an access point (ad-hoc)

1 Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

Except in Peru and Venezuela, you cannot select the 5 GHz bandwidth, which is used for the IEEE 802.11a standard, on

ad-hoc networks.

On models that support the Bluetooth functionality

on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless option(s) 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. 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.

and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard*1, double-click ( / )

Using Your VAIO Computer

12 Enter the network key*2.

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

characters long. You can choose

whichever you want.

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 window. 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.

See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard.

If you want to communicate between two or more computers, you need to configure all these computers in 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.

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.

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An ad-hoc network does not support WPA.

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, right-click Wireless Network Connection. 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 Close the Network Connections window. 10 Turn off the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

The access point will select which channel to use on an infrastructure network.

For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the access point, see the manual that came with your access point.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect to a wireless network

1 Make sure an access point is set up.

See the manual that came with your access point for more information. 2 Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

On models that support the Bluetooth functionality

the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless option(s) and click OK.

3 Click Start and then Control Panel. 4 Click Network and Internet Connections. 5 Click Network Connections. 6 In the right panel under LAN or High-Speed Internet, double-click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection window appears. 7 Follow the on-screen instructions.

* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard.

and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard*, double-click ( / ) on

Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect to a wireless network (Models with the Wireless Setup Utility software only)

Use the Wireless Setup Utility software to guide you through the set up process and provide you with more detailed information about wireless connections.

1 Make sure an access point is set up.

See the manual that came with your access point for more information. 2 Turn on the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up.

On models that support the Bluetooth functionality

and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard*, double-click ( / ) on

the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window. Select your desired wireless option(s) and click OK. 3 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click Wireless Setup Utility.

The Wireless Setup Utility appears. 4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

* See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality and/or the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard.

To disconnect from a wireless network

Turn off the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

Turning off the wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents, files, or resources may result in data loss.

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For WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK authentication, you must enter a network key of 8 to 64 alphanumeric characters long.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Bluetooth Functionality

The Bluetooth functionality is available on selected models only. See the online Specifications 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 33 feet (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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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. ❑ 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. Simultaneous

use of the Bluetooth functionality and wireless communication devices, however, may cause radio interference and result

in poorer communication speeds and distances than the standard values.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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

companies. ❑ As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, connecting multiple Bluetooth devices to your computer may cause

bandwidth congestion, resulting in poor performance of the devices.

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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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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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 Help from the menu.

Stopping the Bluetooth Connection

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

Using Peripheral Devices

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

❑ Connecting a Multi Function Bay Docking Station (page 90) ❑ Connecting External Speakers (page 99) ❑ Connecting an External Display (page 100) ❑ Selecting Display Modes (page 109) ❑ Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 110) ❑ Connecting an External Microphone (page 112) ❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 113) ❑ Connecting a Printer (page 116) ❑ Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 117) ❑ Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 119)

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Multi Function Bay Docking Station

Attaching a multi function bay docking station enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer and an external display.

A multi function bay docking station is not supplied with your computer and is available as an optional accessory.

Locating Ports on the Multi Function Bay Docking Station

Back

A DC IN port (page 21) B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

C DVI-D port (page 101) D MONITOR (VGA) port (page 101) E OPTICAL OUT port (Output frequency 96 kHz/48 kHz/44 kHz/

Vari able) Connect digital equipment such as an AV amplifier.

F PHONES OUT jack G VIDEO OUT port (page 105) H S VIDEO OUT port (page 105) I Network (Ethernet) port (1000BASE-T / 100BASE-TX /

10BASE-T) (page 119)

J Security slot

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

Referred to as the headphones jack hereinafter.

(page 99)

(page 113)

Front/Left

Using Peripheral Devices

A IN USE indicator (page 96) B UNDOCK button (page 96) C PUSH RELEASE button (page 96) D DC IN indicator

Illuminates when the multi function bay docking station is powered.

E Multi function bay F Multi function bay unit eject button

* See the manual that came with the optional multi function bay docking

station.

The multi function bay docking station can be powered only through the AC adapter supplied with the multi function bay docking station. Do not unplug

the AC adapter from the multi function bay docking station and the AC outlet while using the multi function bay docking station; this may cause data

damage or hardware malfunctions.

Using Peripheral Devices

Attaching Your Computer to the Multi Function Bay Docking Station

When the computer has no battery inserted, do not attach the computer to the multi function bay docking station.

To attach your computer to the multi function bay docking station

To prevent loss of unsaved data, be sure to turn off your computer before attaching it to the multi function bay docking station.

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer. 2 Use a coin or similar object (1) to unscrew the screw (2) on the bottom of the multi function bay docking station (3).

Using Peripheral Devices

3 Adjust the position of the size adjuster (4) to match the size of your computer.

4 Tighten the screw on the bottom of the multi function bay docking station. 5 Plug the power cord (5) into the AC adapter (6) and an AC outlet. 6 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (6) into the DC IN port (7) on the multi function bay docking station.

Using Peripheral Devices

7 Slide open the multi function bay docking station connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

8 Place the computer on the multi function bay docking station. Bring the arrows on the back of the computer and on the

multi function bay docking station together so that the connector on the bottom of the computer comes in contact with that

on the docking station.

Using Peripheral Devices

9 Gently push down the computer until it clicks into place.

10 Turn on the computer.

Use the AC adapter supplied with the multi function bay docking station.

Do not move the computer while attached to the multi function bay docking station; this may detach the multi function bay docking station and cause

damage to the multi function bay docking station and the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

Disconnecting Your Computer from the Multi Function Bay Docking Station

To prevent loss of unsaved data, be sure to turn off the computer before disconnecting it from the multi function bay docking station.

Be sure that no devices connected to the multi function bay docking station are in use before disconnecting the computer.

Do not disconnect the computer from the multi function bay docking station when the IN USE indicator is lit. Disconnecting the computer while the IN

USE indicator is lit may result in loss of unsaved data or a failure of the computer.

When the battery is running out of power, disconnecting the computer from the multi function bay docking station may result in loss of unsaved data.

Do not disconnect the computer from the multi function bay docking station during video playback. Be sure to close video playback software before

disconnection.

To disconnect your computer from the multi function bay docking station

1 Press the UNDOCK button (1).

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If the IN USE indicator is unlit, you do not have to press the UNDOCK button.

Pressing the UNDOCK button while the computer is in a power saving mode returns the computer to Normal mode first, and then initiates the

disconnection process.

2 Wait until the IN USE indicator (2) turns off and then press the PUSH RELEASE button (3).

3 Lift the computer away from the multi function bay docking station.

Using Peripheral Devices

4 Close the multi function bay docking station connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

Alternatively, you can disconnect the computer from the multi function bay docking station as follows:

1 Click Start and then Undock Computer. 2 Make sure that a message balloon appears and the IN USE indicator turns off, and then press the PUSH RELEASE

button.

3 Lift the computer away from the multi function bay docking station. 4 Close the multi function bay docking station connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

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It is extremely important to close the multi function bay docking station connector cover after disconnecting the computer from the multi function bay

docking station. If the cover is left open, dust may get inside and damage the computer.

To disconnect the multi function bay docking station completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting External Speakers

You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers.

To connect external speakers

1 Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphones jack (2) on the computer or on the multi function bay docking station. 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.

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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

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display to your computer. For example, you can use the computer with a computer display or a projector.

❑ Connecting a Computer Display (page 101) ❑ Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display (page 103) ❑ Connecting a TV (page 105) ❑ Connecting a Projector (page 107)

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Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.

Connected external displays are used as second screens.

On Windows systems only, you can also use an external display to set up multiple monitors.

Sony VGN-AR130G, VGN-AR150G, VGN-AR170, VGN-AR170G, VGN-AR170GU1 User Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Before Use

Documentation

Ergonomic Considerations

Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

About the Indicator Lights

Connecting a Power Source

Using the Battery Pack

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

Using the Touch Pad

Using Special-function Buttons

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera

Using the Optical Disc Drive

Using the TV Function

Using PC Cards

Using the ExpressCard Media

Using the Memory Stick Media

Using Other Memory Cards

Using the Internet

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

Using the Bluetooth Functionality

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Multi Function Bay Docking Station

Connecting External Speakers

Connecting an External Display