Sony VGN-AW User Manual

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-AW series

Contents

Before Use.......................................................................... 4

Finding More about Your VAIO Computer .................... 5

Ergonomic Considerations ............................................ 7

Getting Started.................................................................... 9

Locating Controls and Ports........................................ 10

About the Indicator Lights ........................................... 17

Connecting a Power Source ....................................... 18

Using the Battery Pack................................................ 19

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely ........................ 26

Updating Your Computer ............................................ 27

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

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

Using the Touch Pad................................................... 30

Using Special-function Buttons ................................... 31

Using the Built-in Camera ........................................... 33

Using the Optical Disc Drive ....................................... 34

Using the Memory Stick .............................................. 41

Using Other Modules / Memory Cards ........................ 46

Using the Internet ........................................................ 55

Using the Network (LAN) ............................................ 57

Using the Wireless LAN .............................................. 58

Using the Bluetooth Function ...................................... 65

Using Fingerprint Authentication ................................. 70

Using Peripheral Devices..................................................77

Connecting External Speakers or Headphones ..........78

Connecting an External Display ..................................79

Selecting Display Modes .............................................86

Using the Multiple Monitors Function ..........................88

Connecting an External Microphone ...........................91

Connecting a USB Device ...........................................92

Connecting an i.LINK Device.......................................94

Customizing Your VAIO Computer....................................96

Setting the Password...................................................97

Using the VAIO Control Center .................................104

Using the Power Saving Modes ................................105

Using the VAIO Power Management.........................110

Changing the Display Language ...............................112

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer.....................................113

Adding and Removing Memory .................................114

Precautions..................................................................... 120

Handling the LCD Screen ......................................... 121

Using the Power Source ........................................... 122

Handling Your Computer........................................... 123

Handling the Built-in Camera .................................... 126

Handling Discs .......................................................... 127

Using the Battery Pack.............................................. 128

Using Headphones.................................................... 129

Handling the Memory Stick ....................................... 130

Handling the Built-in Storage Device ........................ 131

Using Fingerprint Authentication ............................... 132

Troubleshooting .............................................................. 133

Computer .................................................................. 135

System Security ........................................................ 143

Battery....................................................................... 144

Built-in Camera ......................................................... 146

Networking ................................................................ 148

Bluetooth Technology ............................................... 153

Optical Discs ............................................................. 157

Display ...................................................................... 161

Printing ...................................................................... 165

Microphone ............................................................... 166

Speakers ................................................................... 167

Touch Pad................................................................. 168

Keyboard ...................................................................169

Floppy Disks ..............................................................170

Audio/Video ...............................................................171

Memory Stick .............................................................174

Peripherals ................................................................175

Trademarks .....................................................................176

Notice ..............................................................................178

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 experience.

External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer.

Information in the supplied manuals including this User Guide is intended for users of the VAIO computers with the Microsoft® Windows Vista® 32-bit operating system. You may find differences in the information when your computer comes preinstalled with the 64-bit operating system.

How to find specifications

Some features, options, and supplied items may not be available on your computer.

To find out about the configuration of your computer, visit the VAIO Link web site at http://www.vaio-link.com

Before Use > Finding More about Your VAIO Computer

Finding More about Your VAIO Computer

This section provides support information about your VAIO computer.

1. Printed Documentation

❑ Quick Start Guide — An overview of components connection, set-up information, etc.

❑ Troubleshooting and Recovery Guide

❑ Regulations, Guarantee, EULA and Service Support

2. On-screen Documentation

❑ User Guide (This manual) — Features of your computer and information about solving common problems.

To view this on-screen guide:

1 Double-click the Me&My VAIO icon on the desktop.

2 Click Menu, Me&My VAIO, I Need Help, and VAIO User Guide.

3 Open the folder for your language.

4 Select the guide you want to read.

✍

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

❑ Windows Help and Support — A comprehensive resource for practical advice, tutorials, and demonstrations to help you

learn to use your computer.

To access Windows Help and Support, click Start and Help and Support, or press and hold the Microsoft Windows key and press the F1 key.

Before Use > Finding More about Your VAIO Computer

3. Support Web Sites

If you have any problem with the computer, you can visit the VAIO-Link web site at http://www.vaio-link.com for troubleshooting.

Before contacting VAIO-Link by telephone, try to solve the problem by reading the supplied documentation and visiting other Sony web sites.

❑ For more about VAIO and becoming part of the growing VAIO community, visit the web site at http://www.club-vaio.com

❑ For online purchases, visit the web site at http://www.sonystyle-europe.com

❑ For other Sony products, visit the web site at http://www.sony.net

When you contact VAIO-Link by telephone, have the serial number of your VAIO computer ready at hand. The serial number is located on the bottom, the back panel, or inside the battery compartment of your VAIO computer.

Before Use > Ergonomic Considerations

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 for 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 or the pointing device. Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides. Take frequent breaks while using your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain eyes, 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 > Ergonomic Considerations

❑ 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 level of the display as well.

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

lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency.

❑ 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 >

Getting Started

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

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 10)

❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 17)

❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 18)

❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 19)

❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 26)

❑ Updating Your Computer (page 27)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Locating Controls and Ports

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

The appearance of your computer may be different from those illustrated in this manual due to variations in specifications. It may also vary in some countries or areas.

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Front

A Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 33) B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 17) C Built-in microphone (monaural) D LCD screen (page 121) E Built-in speakers (stereo)

F Fingerprint sensor

(page 70)

G Numeric keypad

Use the numeric keypad to type numbers or to perform basic math calculations.

H Keyboard (page 29) I Touch pad (page 30) J Charge indicator (page 17) K Disc drive indicator (page 17) L WIRELESS indicator (page 17) M Media Access indicator (page 17)

N Memory Stick slot

(page 41)

O WIRELESS switch (page 58), (page 65) P SD memory card slot (page 48)

On selected models only.

Your computer supports both the standard-size Memory Stick and the Duosize Memory Stick.

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

A S1/S2 buttons (page 31) B Play/Pause button (page 31) C Stop button (page 31) D Previous track button (page 31) E Next track button (page 31) F AV MODE button (page 31) G Num lock indicator (page 17) H Caps lock indicator (page 17) I Scroll lock indicator (page 17) J Muting button (page 32) K Volume control buttons (page 32) L Drive eject button (page 32), (page 34)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Back

A Battery connector (page 19)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Right

A Headphones/OPTICAL OUT jack (page 78)

(Optical Output Sampling Rate: 44.1 KHz/48.0 KHz/96.0 KHz)

B Microphone jack (page 91) C Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

D Optical disc drive (page 34) E Optical disc drive indicator (page 17) F Substitute drive eject button (page 34) G Manual eject hole (page 157) H Network (Ethernet) port (page 57) I Power button/Power indicator (page 17)

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

(page 92)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Left

A DC IN port (page 18) B Security slot C Air vent

D Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

(page 92)

E Monitor port (page 80) F HDMI output port (page 80) G ExpressCard/34 slot (page 46)

H CF (CompactFlash) memory card slot I CF memory card release button J CF memory card indicator

(page 17)

(page 51)

K i.LINK 4-pin (S400) port (page 94)

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

On selected models only.

(page 51)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Bottom

A Subwoofer speakers for bass frequencies B Air vents C Memory module compartment cover (page 114)

* On selected models only.

Getting Started > About the Indicator Lights

About the Indicator Lights

Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights:

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates in green when the computer is on, blinks slowly in orange while the computer is in Sleep mode, and

Charge

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

Media Access Illuminates while data is being read from or written to a memory card. (Do not place the computer into Sleep

CF memory card

Optical disc drive Illuminates while the drive is reading or writing data. When the indicator is unlit, the optical disc media is not in

Disc drive

Num lock

Caps lock

Scroll lock

WIRELESS Illuminates when one or more wireless options are enabled.

* On selected models only.

turns off when the computer is off or in Hibernate mode.

Illuminates while the battery pack is charging. See Charging the Battery Pack (page 22) for more information.

mode or turn it off when this indicator is lit.) When the indicator is unlit, the memory card is not in use.

Illuminates while data is being read from or written to a CF memory card. (Do not place the computer into Sleep mode or turn it off when this indicator is lit.) When the indicator is unlit, the CF memory card is not in use.

use.

Illuminates while the built-in storage device or the optical disc drive is running to read or write data. Do not place the computer into Sleep mode or turn it off when this indicator is lit.

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 unlit.

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

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

Getting Started > Connecting a Power Source

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

✍

Use only the supplied AC adapter for your computer.

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 connected to the AC adapter (3) into the DC IN port (4) on the computer.

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

✍

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 intend to use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 108).

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

Using the Battery Pack

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

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) inward.

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

3 Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projections (2) on either side of the battery

compartment fit into the U-shaped cuts (3) on either side of the battery pack.

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

4 Push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks into place.

5 Slide the battery LOCK switch outward to secure the battery pack on the computer.

✍

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

Certain rechargeable batteries do not meet Sony quality and safety standards. For safety reasons this computer only functions with genuine Sony battery packs designed for this model. If an unauthorized battery pack is installed, the battery will not be charged and the computer will not function.

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

Charging the Battery Pack

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

To charge the battery pack

1 Install the battery pack.

2 Connect the computer to a power source with the AC adapter.

The charge indicator light turns on while the battery pack is charging. When the battery pack charges close to the maximum charge level you selected with the battery charge functions, the charge indicator turns off. To select your desired maximum charge level, see Using the Battery Charge Functions (page 24).

Charge indicator status Meaning

Lit in orange The battery pack is charging.

Blinks along with the green power indicator

Blinks along with the orange power indicator

Blinks fast in orange A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery

The battery pack is running out of power. (Normal mode)

The battery pack is running out of power. (Sleep mode)

pack or an unlocked battery pack.

Charge the battery pack as described in this manual from your first battery charge.

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

✍

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

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

Your computer is supplied with a lithium ion battery pack and can be recharged any time. Charging a partially discharged battery pack does not affect the life of battery.

While some software applications or peripheral devices are in use, your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when the remaining battery life is short. To avoid loss of data when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such

as Sleep or Hibernate.

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

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

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

Using the Battery Charge Functions

You can customize the current battery charging method using the Battery Charge Functions. To make the life of battery longer, enable the battery care function.

To enable the battery care function

1 Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.

2 Click Power Management and then Battery Charge Functions.

3 Click Advanced.

4 Click to select the Enable Battery Care Function check box.

5 Select the desired maximum charge level.

6 Click OK.

To check the battery charge capacity

Follow steps 1 to 3 in To enable the battery care function above and check detailed information. If the battery charge capacity is low, replace the battery pack with a new genuine Sony battery pack.

Using the Battery Life Conserving Wallpaper

You can conserve your battery life just by setting the specific wallpaper as your desktop background.

To set the battery life conserving wallpaper

1 Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.

2 Click Display and then Long Battery Life Wallpaper Setting.

3 Click Set Long Battery Life Wallpaper.

At the confirmation prompt, click OK.

Getting Started > Using the Battery Pack

Removing the Battery Pack

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

To remove the battery pack

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

2 Slide the battery LOCK switch (1) inward.

3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (2) inward, put your fingertip underneath the tab (3) on the battery pack, and

lift the battery pack in the direction of the arrow, and then slide it away from the computer.

Getting Started > Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

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, the arrow next to the Lock button, and then Shut Down.

3 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.

Getting Started > Updating Your Computer

Updating Your Computer

Be sure to install the latest updates on your computer with the following software applications so that the computer can run more efficiently.

❑ Windows Update

Click Start, All Programs, and Windows Update and then follow the on-screen instructions.

❑ VAIO Update 4

Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Update 4, and VAIO Update Options and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Your computer must be connected to the Internet to download the updates.

Using Your VAIO Computer >

Using Your VAIO Computer

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

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 29)

❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 30)

❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 31)

❑ Using the Built-in Camera (page 33)

❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 34)

❑ Using the Memory Stick (page 41)

❑ Using Other Modules / Memory Cards (page 46)

❑ Using the Internet (page 55)

❑ Using the Network (LAN) (page 57)

❑ Using the Wireless LAN (page 58)

❑ Using the Bluetooth Function (page 65)

❑ Using Fingerprint Authentication (page 70)

Using Your VAIO Computer > Using the Keyboard

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

✍

Some keyboard functions can be used only after the operating system is finished launching.

Combinations/Feature Functions

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

Fn + /T (F7): display output

Fn + / (F9/F10): zoom

Fn + (F12): hibernate

To increase lighting intensity, keep pressing the Fn+F6 keys or press the Fn+F6 keys and then the M or , key. To decrease lighting intensity, keep pressing the Fn+F5 keys or press the Fn+F5 keys and then the m or < key.

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

Changes the size of an image or a document displayed on some software. To make the view look smaller and further away (zoom out), press the Fn+F9 keys. To make the view look bigger and closer (zoom in), press the Fn+F10 keys. See the help file included with the VAIO Control Center for more information.

Provides the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the states of the system and the connected peripheral devices are saved to the built-in storage device 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 105).

Using Your VAIO Computer > Using the Touch Pad

Using the Touch Pad

You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the touch pad.

Action Description

Point Slide your finger on the touch pad (1) to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.

Click Press the left button (3) once.

Double-click Press the left button twice in a row.

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

Drag Slide your finger on the touch pad while pressing the left button.

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

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

✍

You can disable/enable the touch pad while a mouse is connected to your computer. To change the touch pad settings, use the VAIO Control Center.

Be sure to connect a mouse before disabling the touch pad. If you disable the touch pad before connecting a mouse, you will be able to use only the keyboard for pointer operations.

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