Sony VGN-AR230G, VGN-AR250G, VGN-AR270, VGN-AR270G, VGN-AR270GA User Guide

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User Guide

Personal Computer

V G N - F E 7 0 0 S e r i e s / V G N - A R 2 0 0 S e r i e s

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Contents
Before Use .........................................................................................................................................................................	6
Documentation.............................................................................................................................................................	6
Ergonomic Considerations...........................................................................................................................................	9
Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................	11
Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................	12
About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................	25
Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................	27
Using the Battery Pack ..............................................................................................................................................	29
Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................	34
Using Your VAIO Computer .............................................................................................................................................	35
Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................	36
Using the Touch Pad .................................................................................................................................................	38
Using Special-function Buttons ..................................................................................................................................	39
Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...................................................................................................................	41
Using the Optical Disc Drive ......................................................................................................................................	42
Using the TV Function ...............................................................................................................................................	53
Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................	68
Using the ExpressCard Module .................................................................................................................................	71
Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................	76
Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................	81
Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................	86

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Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................	88
Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................	97
Using Peripheral Devices...............................................................................................................................................	105
Connecting a Multi Function Bay Docking Station ...................................................................................................	106
Connecting External Speakers ................................................................................................................................	117
Connecting an External Display ...............................................................................................................................	118
Selecting Display Modes..........................................................................................................................................	127
Using the Multiple Monitors Function.......................................................................................................................	128
Connecting an External Microphone........................................................................................................................	130
Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device....................................................................................................	131
Connecting a Printer ................................................................................................................................................	134
Connecting an i.LINK Device ...................................................................................................................................	135
Connecting to a Network (LAN) ...............................................................................................................................	137
Customizing Your VAIO Computer ................................................................................................................................	139
Setting the Password ...............................................................................................................................................	140
Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Central .........................................................................................................	143
Using the Power Saving Modes ...............................................................................................................................	144
Managing Power with VAIO Power Management....................................................................................................	149
Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................	151
Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................	152

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Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................	160
On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................	161
On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................	162
On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................	163
On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...........................................................................................................	165
On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................	165
On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................	166
On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................	167
On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................	168
On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................	169
On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................	170
On Handling the Memory Card Adapter...................................................................................................................	171
Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................	172
Computer .................................................................................................................................................................	174
System Security .......................................................................................................................................................	181
Battery......................................................................................................................................................................	183
Built-in MOTION EYE Camera.................................................................................................................................	185
Internet.....................................................................................................................................................................	188
Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................	190
Bluetooth Technology ..............................................................................................................................................	193
CDs and DVDs.........................................................................................................................................................	197
Display .....................................................................................................................................................................	202
Printing.....................................................................................................................................................................	206
Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................	207

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Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................	208
Speakers..................................................................................................................................................................	209
Touch Pad................................................................................................................................................................	210
Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................	211
Floppy Disks ............................................................................................................................................................	212
PC Cards .................................................................................................................................................................	213
Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................	214
Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................	215
Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................	216
Multi Function Bay Docking Station .........................................................................................................................	217
Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................	218
Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................	218
Program Support Information...................................................................................................................................	221

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Before Use

Before Use

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

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.

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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/ for customers in USA,

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

RAID Guide (Selected VGN-AR200 Series 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.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Support Central.

2 Click VAIO Documentation.

3 Click RAID Guide.

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Before Use

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 VAIO Documentation.

3 Click MCE Guide.

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Before Use

Ergonomic Considerations

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

Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touch pad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.

Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor. A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backwards.

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Before Use

Viewing angle of the computer's display – Use the display's tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the display as well.

Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.

Positioning an external display – When using an external display, set the display at a comfortable viewing distance. Make sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.

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Getting Started

Getting Started

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

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Before starting your computer for the first time, do not connect any new hardware that did not originally 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, an external hard disk drive, a scanner, and so on) at a time, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Locating Controls and Ports (page 12)

About the Indicator Lights (page 25)

Connecting a Power Source (page 27)

Using the Battery Pack (page 29)

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 34)

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Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

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

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Getting Started

VGN-FE700 Series Models

Front

A Built-in MOTION EYE camera*1 (page 41)

B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 25)

C LCD screen (page 161)

D Built-in speakers

E Keyboard (page 36)

F Touch pad (page 38)

G Power indicator (page 25)

H Battery indicator (page 25)

I Hard disk drive indicator (page 25)

J Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo media indicator (page 25)

K LCD screen lid LOCK/RELEASE switch

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

L Headphones jack (page 117)

M Microphone jack (page 130)

N Built-in microphone (monaural)

O WIRELESS switch (page 88)

P WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 25)

Q Bluetooth indicator*1 (page 25)

R Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo media slot*2 (page 78)

*1	On selected models only.
*2	Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick PRO
	Duo media with high speed and high capacity capabilities.

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Getting Started

A Muting button (page 39)

B Muting indicator (page 25)

C VOL buttons (page 39)

D S1/S2 buttons (page 39)

E Num lock indicator (page 25)

F Caps lock indicator (page 25)

G Scroll lock indicator (page 25)

H Power button

I Power indicator (page 25)

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Getting Started

Back

A Air vent

B Battery connector (page 29)

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Getting Started

Right

A PC Card release button (page 70)

B PC Card slot (page 68)

C ExpressCard™/34 slot*1 (page 71)

D i.LINK (IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 135)

E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports*2 (page 131)

F S VIDEO OUTPUT port*3 *4 (page 123)

G Monitor (VGA) port*4(page 119)

H DC IN port (page 27)

*1	Referred to as the ExpressCard slot hereinafter.
*2	Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.
*3	Referred to as the S VIDEO OUT port hereinafter.
*4	Disabled when your computer is attached to the optional multi function bay
	docking station.

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Getting Started

Left

A Modem port (page 86)

B Network (Ethernet) port (page 137)

C Optical disc drive (page 42)

D Drive eject button (page 42)/

Optical disc drive indicator (page 25)

E Manual eject hole (page 197)

F Security slot

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Getting Started

Bottom

A Multi function bay docking station connector (page 108)

B Air vents

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Getting Started

VGN-AR200 Series Models

Front

A Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 41)

B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 25) C LCD screen (page 161)

D Keyboard (page 36) E Built-in speakers

F VAIO logo lamp (page 39)

G Power button / Power indicator (page 25) H Touch pad (page 38)

I Power indicator (page 25) J Battery indicator (page 25)

K Hard disk drive indicator (page 25)

L Memory Stick PRO/Duo media indicator (page 25) 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 25)

P Memory Stick PRO/Duo media slot*1 (page 78) Q SD memory card slot (page 83)

R WIRELESS switch (page 88)

S WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 25)

T Bluetooth indicator*2 (page 25)

*1	Your computer supports Memory Stick PRO media and Memory Stick Duo
	media with high speed and high capacity capabilities.
*2	On selected models only.

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Getting Started

A Num lock indicator (page 25)

B Caps lock indicator (page 25)

C Scroll lock indicator (page 25)

D S1/S2 buttons (page 39)

E VOLUME buttons (page 39)

F Disc drive eject button (page 42)

G Muting button (page 39) / Muting indicator (page 25)

H CHANNEL buttons* (page 39)

I TV REC button* (page 39)

J Play/Pause button (page 39)

K Stop button (page 39)

L Previous track button (page 39)

M Next track button (page 39)

N AV MODE button (page 39)

*On selected models only.

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Getting Started

Back

A VHF/UHF port*1 (page 53)

B Air vent

C Battery connector (page 29)

D Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port*2 (page 131)

E DC IN port (page 27)

*1 On selected models only.

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

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Getting Started

Right

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports*1 (page 131)

B PC Card release button (page 70)

C PC Card slot (page 68)

D ExpressCard module release button (page 74)

E Universal ExpressCard slot*2 (page 72)

F i.LINK (IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 135)

G AV In jack*3 *4 (page 61)

H S VIDEO INPUT port*3 *4 *5 (page 61)

I S VIDEO OUTPUT port*5 *6 (page 123)

J HDMI ( ) port (page 123)

K Monitor (VGA) port*6 (page 119)

L Network (Ethernet) port (page 137)

M Modem port (page 86)

								*1			Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.
										*2	Referred to as the ExpressCard slot hereinafter.
						*3					On selected models only.
		*4									Parallel use of the AV In jack and the S VIDEO INPUT port will direct video
											signals to the S VIDEO INPUT port.
		*5									Referred to as the S VIDEO IN port and the S VIDEO OUT port hereinafter.
		*6									Disabled when your computer is attached to the optional multi function bay
											docking station.

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Getting Started

Left

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

Variable)

Connect digital equipment such as an AV amplifier.

B Microphone jack (page 130)

C Headphones jack (page 117)

D Optical disc drive (page 42)

E Substitute drive eject button (page 42)/

Optical disc drive indicator (page 25)

F Manual eject hole (page 197)

G Security slot

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Getting Started

Bottom

A Multi function bay docking station connector (page 108)

B Air vents

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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 when the computer is 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 pack is running out of power, and
		double-blinks when the battery pack is charging.
	Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo media	Illuminates when data is read from or written to the Memory Stick media in the Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo slot
	(VGN-FE700 Series)	or in the Memory Stick PRO/Duo slot. (Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator
	Memory Stick PRO/Duo media	is on.) When the indicator is off, the Memory Stick media is not being used.
	(VGN-AR200 Series)
	Muting %	Illuminates when the volume is turned off.
	Built-in MOTION EYE camera*1	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
	(VGN-AR200 Series only)	mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the memory card is not being
		used.
	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
		being used.
	Hard disk drive	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.
	Num lock	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.

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Getting Started

Indicator			Functions
Caps lock			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.
Scroll lock			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.
Bluetooth technology		*2	Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is set to ON and Bluetooth technology is enabled.
WIRELESS LAN			Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running.
*1	On only selected VGN-FE700 Series models and all VGN-AR200 Series models.
*2	On selected models only.

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Getting Started

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter.

To use the AC adapter

1Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter (3).

2Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).

3Plug 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.

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Getting Started

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

Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible.

If you do not use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 147). This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down or resuming.

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Getting Started

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

The illustrations in the following show the VGN-FE700 Series model computer as an example.

1Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.

2Slide the battery lock switch (1) to the UNLOCK position.

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

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

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Getting Started

When your 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.