Sony VGN-FW400, VGN-FW400J, VGN-FW448J, VGN-FW448J/B, VGN-FW449J User Guide

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User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-FW Series

Contents

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

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

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

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

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

About the Indicator Lights ........................................... 18

Connecting a Power Source ....................................... 19

Using the Battery Pack................................................ 20

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely ........................ 28

Updating Your Computer ............................................ 29

Using Your VAIO Computer.............................................. 30

Using the Keyboard..................................................... 31

Using the Touch Pad................................................... 32

Using Special-function Buttons ................................... 33

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

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

Using the Memory Stick .............................................. 42

Using Other Modules / Memory Cards ........................ 47

Using the Internet ........................................................ 53

Using the Network (LAN) ............................................ 55

Using the Wireless LAN .............................................. 56

Using the Bluetooth Function ...................................... 60

Using Peripheral Devices..................................................65

Connecting External Speakers or Headphones ..........66

Connecting an External Display ..................................67

Selecting Display Modes .............................................74

Using the Multiple Monitors Function ..........................76

Connecting an External Microphone ...........................79

Connecting a USB Device ...........................................80

Connecting an i.LINK Device.......................................82

Customizing Your VAIO Computer....................................84

Setting the Password...................................................85

Using the VAIO Control Center ...................................90

Using the Power Saving Modes ..................................91

Using the VAIO Power Management...........................96

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer.......................................98

Adding and Removing Memory ...................................99

Precautions..................................................................... 105

Handling the LCD Screen ......................................... 106

Using the Power Source ........................................... 107

Handling Your Computer........................................... 108

Handling the Built-in Camera .................................... 111

Handling Discs .......................................................... 112

Using the Battery Pack.............................................. 113

Using Headphones.................................................... 115

Handling the Memory Stick ....................................... 116

Handling the Built-in Storage Device ........................ 117

Troubleshooting .............................................................. 118

Computer .................................................................. 120

System Security ........................................................ 128

Battery....................................................................... 129

Built-in Camera ......................................................... 131

Internet ...................................................................... 133

Networking ................................................................ 135

Bluetooth Technology ............................................... 138

Optical Discs ............................................................. 142

Display ...................................................................... 146

Printing ...................................................................... 151

Microphone ............................................................... 152

Speakers ................................................................... 153

Touch Pad................................................................. 154

Keyboard ...................................................................155

Floppy Disks ..............................................................156

Audio/Video ...............................................................157

Memory Stick .............................................................160

Peripherals ................................................................161

Trademarks .....................................................................162

Notice ..............................................................................164

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 Sony online support web sites at the following URLs:

❑ For customers in USA

http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/

❑ For customers in Canada

http://www.sony.ca/support/

❑ For customers in Spanish-speaking Latin American countries or areas

http://esupport.sony.com/LA/

❑ For customers in Brazil

http://esupport.sony.com/BR/

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.

❑ Safety Information — Safety guidelines and owner information.

2. On-screen Documentation

❑ Help and Support — General information and technical assistance for your VAIO computer.

To access Help and Support:

1 Click Start and Help and Support.

2 Choose from the following categories to find the answers you need.

Get started with my VAIO Get help with Internet and wireless setup, security setup, personalizing your VAIO computer, and creating

Use my VAIO Access interactive help in the form of VAIO tutorials, how-to articles, the VAIO technology page,

Troubleshoot my VAIO Maintain and troubleshoot your VAIO computer with VAIO Care, system restore, backup and recovery, and

recovery discs and more.

specifications, and system and software information. You can find useful documentation such as below:

- VAIO User Guide (This manual)

- VAIO Recovery Center User Guide - Information about restoring individual software programs, hardware drivers, and drive partition(s) or your entire built-in storage device to the original factory settings

- Software Information

contact Sony support.

Before Use > Finding More about Your VAIO Computer

❑ Program help files — May be included with the preinstalled programs on your computer. You may be able to access the

help files from the help menu on a specific program.

™

❑ SmartWi

Connection Utility Help (Selected models only) — Information about setting up Bluetooth®, wireless LAN,

GPS, and wireless WAN functions.

Features and options may not be available on your computer. See the specifications to find out about configuration of your computer.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, All Programs, and SmartWi Connection Utility.

2 Click SmartWi Connection Utility Help.

Before Use > Finding More about Your VAIO Computer

3. Support Web Sites

❑ Sony online support web site

The Sony online support web site provides instant access to information on commonly encountered problems. Type a description of the problem and the Knowledge Database searches for the corresponding solutions online.

❑ For customers in USA

http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/

❑ For customers in Canada

http://www.sony.ca/support/

❑ For customers in Spanish-speaking Latin American countries or areas

http://esupport.sony.com/LA/

❑ For customers in Brazil

http://esupport.sony.com/BR/

❑ Operating system online support web site

Your computer comes preinstalled with a Microsoft Windows operating system. For operating system support, you can visit Microsoft customer support at http://support.microsoft.com/directory/

Before Use > Finding More about Your VAIO Computer

4. Customer Information Center

If you do not find the information you are looking for at our site, you may call Sony directly. You can find the contact numbers on the Sony online support web site. In order to receive the fastest and most efficient services, have the following information readily available:

1 Your VAIO computer model

You can find it at the lower right corner of the display on the computer.

2 Your computer's serial number

You can find it on the bottom, the back panel, or inside the battery compartment of your Sony VAIO computer. The serial number is the last 7 digits of the number below the barcode.

3 The operating system on your computer

4 The hardware component or the software program that is causing the problem

5 A brief description of the problem

5. In Store Service & Support (available in USA only)

Make an appointment with a Sony certified technician at a U.S. Sony Style store and get personalized service and support for your VAIO PC. Sony Style Backstage Technicians can assist with the set up of your new VAIO PC, system optimization, data rescue, and any repair service you might need. Visit the web site at www.sonystyle.com/backstage

to find the nearest location.

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, touch pad, or external mouse. 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.

Before starting your computer for the first time, do not connect any other hardware that did not originally come with your computer. Be 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 manufacturers' instructions.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 12)

❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 18)

❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 19)

❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 20)

❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 28)

❑ Updating Your Computer (page 29)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Locating Controls and Ports

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

Front

A Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 34) B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 18) C Built-in microphone (monaural) D LCD screen (page 106) E Built-in speakers (stereo) F Keyboard (page 31) G Touch pad (page 32) H Charge indicator (page 18) I Disc drive indicator (page 18) J WIRELESS switch (page 56) K WIRELESS indicator (page 18) L Media Access indicator (page 18) M SD memory card slot (page 49)

N Memory Stick slot O Headphones jack (page 66) P Microphone jack (page 79)

* Your computer supports both the standard-size Memory Stick and the Duo-

size Memory Stick.

(page 42)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

A Num lock indicator (page 18) B Caps lock indicator (page 18) C Scroll lock indicator (page 18) D S1 button (page 33) E VOL-/VOL+ buttons (page 33) F Play/Pause button (page 33) G Stop button (page 33) H Previous track button (page 33) I Next track button (page 33) J AV M O DE button (page 33)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Back

A Battery connector

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Right

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports B Optical disc drive (page 35) C Optical disc drive indicator (page 18) D Drive eject button (page 35) E Manual eject hole (page 142) F Power button/Power indicator (page 18)

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

(page 80)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Left

A DC IN port (page 19) B Security slot C Air vent D Network (Ethernet) port (page 55) E Modem port (page 53) F Monitor port (page 67) G HDMI output port (page 68), (page 71) H i.LINK 4-pin (S400) port (page 82) I ExpressCard/34 slot (page 47)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Bottom

A Air vents B Memory module compartment cover (page 99)

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

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.

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

Illuminates while the battery pack is charging. See Charging the Battery Pack (page 23) 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.

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 94).

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.

This computer is designed to operate only with genuine Sony battery packs.

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 25).

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.

Getting Started > Using the 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 31)

❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 32)

❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 33)

❑ Using the Built-in Camera (page 34)

❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 35)

❑ Using the Memory Stick (page 42)

❑ Using Other Modules / Memory Cards (page 47)

❑ Using the Internet (page 53)

❑ Using the Network (LAN) (page 55)

❑ Using the Wireless LAN (page 56)

❑ Using the Bluetooth Function (page 60)

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