Sony VGN-G21VN-B User Manual

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-G series

Contents

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

Notice ...........................................................................................................................................................................7

NERGY STAR ...............................................................................................................................................................8

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................9

Ergonomic Considerations.........................................................................................................................................13

Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................15

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................16

About the Indicator Lights ..........................................................................................................................................21

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................22

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

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .......................................................................................................................30

Using Your VAIO Computer .............................................................................................................................................31

Using the Keyboard ...................................................................................................................................................32

Using the Touch Pad .................................................................................................................................................34

Using Special-function Buttons ..................................................................................................................................35

Using PC Cards .........................................................................................................................................................36

Using the Memory Stick Media ..................................................................................................................................40

Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................47

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................51

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................52

Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................59

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

Connecting an Optical Disc Drive ..............................................................................................................................66

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................................................................................................68

Connecting an External Display .................................................................................................................................69

Selecting Display Modes............................................................................................................................................72

Using the Multiple Monitors Function .........................................................................................................................73

Connecting an External Microphone ..........................................................................................................................75

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device......................................................................................................76

Connecting a Printer ..................................................................................................................................................79

Connecting an i.LINK Device .....................................................................................................................................80

Connecting to a Network (LAN) .................................................................................................................................81

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ..................................................................................................................................82

Setting the Password .................................................................................................................................................83

Using Fingerprint Authentication ................................................................................................................................90

Using Trusted Platform Module (TPM).......................................................................................................................98

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center..............................................................................................105

Using VAIO Status Monitor ......................................................................................................................................106

Using the Power Saving Modes ...............................................................................................................................107

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ....................................................................................................112

Changing the Performance Setting ..........................................................................................................................114

Protecting Data from Unauthorized Use ..................................................................................................................115

Configuring Your Modem .........................................................................................................................................117

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................119

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................120

Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................127

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................128

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................129

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................130

On the Liquid-resistant Structure .............................................................................................................................132

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................135

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................136

On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................137

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................138

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................139

On Updating Your Computer ...................................................................................................................................140

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................141

Computer .................................................................................................................................................................142

System Security .......................................................................................................................................................151

Battery......................................................................................................................................................................152

Internet .....................................................................................................................................................................154

Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................156

Bluetooth Technology ..............................................................................................................................................159

Optical Discs ............................................................................................................................................................164

Display .....................................................................................................................................................................165

Printing .....................................................................................................................................................................169

Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................170

Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................171

Speakers ..................................................................................................................................................................172

Touch Pad................................................................................................................................................................173

Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................174

Floppy Disks ............................................................................................................................................................175

PC Cards .................................................................................................................................................................176

Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................178

Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................179

Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................180

Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................181

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................181

e-Support .................................................................................................................................................................182

Trademarks ..............................................................................................................................................................184

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.

Before Use

Notice

This manual and the software described herein, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, translated, or reduced to any machine-readable form without prior written approval.

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

In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified.

Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user license agreement.

Before Use

ENERGY STAR

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. The International ENERGY STAR Office Equipment Program is an international Program that promotes energy saving through the use of computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that effectively reduce energy consumption.

For detailed information on the ENERGY STAR Program, visit the following Web sites:

❑ http://www.energystar.gov

❑ http://www.eu-energystar.org

(USA)

(Europe)

This computer is designed based on the ENERGY STAR standards and delivered with the following power saving settings:

❑ The LCD backlight is turned off automatically after inactivity of about 15 minutes.

❑ The computer enters Sleep mode automatically after inactivity of about 30 minutes.

Press any key to bring the computer back into Normal mode.

For detailed information on power saving modes, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 107).

Before Use

Documentation

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

Printed Documentation

❑ Quick Start Guide — Describes the process from unpacking to starting up your VAIO.

❑ Troubleshooting and Recovery Guide — Contains solutions to common problems and computer malfunctions, an

explanation of how to make a backup copy of your data and recover your computer system, and sources of support information.

❑ Regulations, Warranty, EULA and Service Support — Contains Sony GUARANTEE conditions,

Safety / Regulations, Modem Regulations, Wireless LAN Regulations, Wireless WAN Regulations, Bluetooth Regulations, End User Software License Agreement, and Sony Support services information.

Before Use

Non-printed Documentation

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

included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems. User Guide is provided in the PDF format, which you can easily browse through and print out.

To view this on-screen guide:

1 Double-click the VAIO User Guide icon on the desktop.

2 Open the folder for your language.

3 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.

To go to Web sites described in this manual by clicking their respective URLs beginning with http://, your computer must be connected to the Internet.

❑ Specifications — The online Specifications describe the hardware and software configurations 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://www.vaio-link.com

✍

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

My Club VAIO

In My Club VAIO you can find:

❑ Accessories

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

❑ Software

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

❑ Wallpapers

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

❑ Links

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

Before Use

Windows Help and Support

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

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

To access Windows Help and Support, click Start and Help and Support. Or go to Windows Help and Support by pressing and holding the Microsoft Windows key and pressing the F1 key.

Further Sources

❑ Consult the help files on the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting.

❑ Go to http://www.club-vaio.com

to find online tutorials about your favorite VAIO software.

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 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. Have breaks during sessions with 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

❑ 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

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

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 16)

❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 21)

❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 22)

❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 23)

❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 30)

Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

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

Front

A WIRELESS switch (page 52) B Fingerprint sensor (page 90) C Presentation/S1 button (page 35) D S2 button (page 35) E Num lock indicator (page 21) F Caps lock indicator (page 21) G Scroll lock indicator (page 21) H Battery indicator (page 21) I Hard disk drive indicator (page 21) J WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 21) K Bluetooth indicator (page 21)

Getting Started

LCD screen (page 128)

A B Power button C Power indicator (page 21) D Keyboard (page 32) E Touch pad (page 34) F Air vent G Media Access indicator (page 21)

H Memory Stick slot

(page 43)

I SD memory card slot (page 47) J Built-in speaker (monaural) K Headphones jack (page 68) L Microphone jack (page 75)

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

Right

A i.LINK (IEEE 1394) S400 port (page 80) B Air vent C Modem port (page 51) D Monitor (VGA) port (page 69)

E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

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

(page 76)

Getting Started

Left

A DC IN port (page 22) B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

C Network (Ethernet) port (page 81) D Air vent E PC Card slot (page 36) F PC Card release button (page 39) G Security slot

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

(page 76)

Getting Started

Bottom

A Drain hole (page 132) B Air vents C Battery LOCK/UNLOCK switch (page 23) D Battery connector E Battery RELEASE latch (page 29)

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 Sleep 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

Media Access Illuminates when data is read from or written to a memory card. (Do not enter Sleep mode or turn off the

Hard disk drive

Num lock

Caps lock

Scroll lock

Bluetooth technology

Wireless LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN functionality is enabled.

double-blinks when the battery pack is charging.

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

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the built-in flash memory storage. Do not enter Sleep 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.

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.

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

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.

Getting Started

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 110). This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down and resuming.

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

Be careful not to hit the LCD screen with the battery pack while installing it.

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

2 Slide the battery LOCK/UNLOCK switch (1) on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position.

Getting Started

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

4 Rotate the battery pack in the direction of the arrow, and push the battery pack down into the compartment until it clicks

into place.

5 Slide the battery LOCK/UNLOCK switch to the LOCK position 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 batteries designed for this model. When installing another kind of battery, the battery will not be charged and the computer will not function.

Getting Started

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 AC adapter to the computer.

The computer automatically charges the battery pack (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery pack charges). When the battery pack charges close to the maximum charge level you selected with the battery care function, the battery indicator turns off. To select your desired maximum charge level with the battery care function, see To use the battery care function (page 28).

Battery indicator light status Meaning

On The computer is using battery power.

Blinks The battery pack is running out of power.

Double blinks The battery pack is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

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

Getting Started

✍

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

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 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.

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

The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When battery life is nearly depleted, both the battery and power indicator lights start flashing.

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your 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 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.

To use the battery care function

You can select your desired maximum charge level with the battery care function to reduce battery degradation.

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

The VAIO Control Center window appears.

2 Double-click Power Management and Battery Care Function.

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

4 Select the desired maximum charge level.

5 Click OK.

Getting Started

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/UNLOCK switch (1) on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position.

3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (2), hook your fingertip under the tab (3) on the battery pack, and turn the

battery pack in the direction of the arrow, and then slide it 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, the arrow next to the Lock button, and 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.

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