Sony VGN-P610, VGN-P610/G, VGN-P610/N, VGN-P610/Q, VGN-P610/R User Guide

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User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-P Series

Contents

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

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

Ergonomic Considerations ............................................ 8

Getting Started.................................................................. 10

Locating Controls and Ports........................................ 11

About the Indicator Lights ........................................... 16

Connecting a Power Source ....................................... 17

Using the Battery Pack................................................ 18

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely ........................ 24

Updating Your Computer ............................................ 25

Using Your VAIO Computer.............................................. 26

Using the Keyboard..................................................... 27

Using the Pointing Device ........................................... 29

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

Using the Instant Mode ............................................... 32

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

Using the Memory Stick .............................................. 34

Using Other Modules / Memory Cards ........................ 39

Using the Internet ........................................................ 43

Using the Network (LAN) ............................................ 44

Using the Wireless LAN .............................................. 46

Using the Bluetooth Function ...................................... 49

Using Peripheral Devices..................................................54

Connecting a Display/LAN Adapter .............................55

Connecting an Optical Disc Drive ................................57

Connecting External Speakers or Headphones ..........59

Connecting an External Display ..................................60

Selecting Display Modes .............................................62

Using the Multiple Monitors Function ..........................64

Connecting a USB Device ...........................................67

Customizing Your VAIO Computer....................................69

Setting the Password...................................................70

Using the VAIO Control Center ...................................78

Using the Power Saving Modes ..................................79

Using the VAIO Power Management...........................84

Protecting the Hard Disk ..............................................86

Precautions....................................................................... 87

Handling the LCD Screen ........................................... 88

Using the Power Source ............................................. 89

Handling Your Computer............................................. 90

Handling the Built-in Camera ...................................... 93

Handling Discs ............................................................ 94

Using the Battery Pack................................................ 95

Using Headphones...................................................... 97

Handling the Memory Stick ......................................... 98

Handling the Built-in Storage Device .......................... 99

Handling the Display/LAN Adapter............................ 100

Troubleshooting .............................................................. 101

Computer .................................................................. 103

System Security ........................................................ 109

Battery....................................................................... 111

Instant Mode ............................................................. 113

Built-in Camera ......................................................... 115

Networking ................................................................ 117

Bluetooth Technology ............................................... 120

Display ...................................................................... 123

Printing ...................................................................... 126

Microphone ............................................................... 127

Speakers ................................................................... 128

Pointing Device ......................................................... 129

Keyboard ...................................................................130

Floppy Disks ..............................................................131

Audio/Video ...............................................................132

Memory Cards ...........................................................133

Peripherals ................................................................134

Trademarks .....................................................................135

Notice ..............................................................................137

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.

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

❑ VAIO User Guide (this manual) — Explains features of your computer. It also includes information on solving common

problems.

❑ VAIO Recovery Center User Guide — Provides information about restoring individual software programs, hardware

drivers, and drive partition(s) or your entire built-in storage device to the original factory settings.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start and VAIO Documentation.

2 Click VAIO Recovery for Windows XP.

❑ 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

functions.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click SmartWi Connection Utility.

2 Click SmartWi Connection Utility Help.

Connection Utility Help — Information about setting up Bluetooth®, wireless LAN, GPS, and wireless WAN

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 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.

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 11)

❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 16)

❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 17)

❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 18)

❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 24)

❑ Updating Your Computer (page 25)

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.

Front

A WIRELESS switch (page 46), (page 49) B WIRELESS indicator (page 16) C SD memory card slot (page 39) D Media Access indicator (page 16)

E Memory Stick slot F Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 16) G Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 33) H LCD screen (page 88) I Built-in microphone (monaural) J Keyboard (page 27) K Power switch L Power indicator (page 16) M Charge indicator (page 16) N Disc drive indicator (page 16)

* Your computer supports only the Duo-size Memory Stick.

(page 34)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

A Built-in speakers (stereo) B Pointing stick (page 29) C Left button (page 29) D Center button (page 29) E Right button (page 29) F S2 button (page 31) G XMB (Xross Media Bar) button (S1 button) (page 31) H Num lock indicator (page 16) I Caps lock indicator (page 16) J Scroll lock indicator (page 16)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Back

A SIM card slot B Battery connector (page 18)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Right

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port B I/O port (page 56)

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

(page 67)

Getting Started > Locating Controls and Ports

Left

A DC IN port (page 17) B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

C Headphones jack (page 59)

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

(page 67)

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 Standby mode,

Charge

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

Media Access Illuminates while data is being read from or written to a memory card, such as the Memory Stick and the SD

Disc drive

Num lock

Caps lock

Scroll lock

WIRELESS Illuminates when one or more wireless options are enabled.

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

Illuminates while the battery pack is charging. See Charging the Battery Pack (page 20) for more information.

memory card. (Do not place the computer into Standby mode or turn it off when this indicator is lit.) When the indicator is unlit, the memory card is not in use.

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

Press the Fn+Num Lk keys 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.

✍

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 82).

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 Fit the battery pack into the battery compartment.

The battery pack should be level with the bottom of the computer.

4 Slide the battery pack toward the front of the computer 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 Customizing the Battery Charge Method (page 22).

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. (Standby 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 Standby or Hibernate.

If the battery pack wears out when the computer enters Standby 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

Customizing the Battery Charging Method

You can customize the current battery charging method using the battery care function and the quick charge function. The battery care function makes the life of battery longer, and the quick charge function allows you to charge your battery pack quickly.

✍

The quick charge function is intended to speed up battery charging while your computer is in Standby or Hibernate mode or off. It does not reduce the battery charge time while the computer is in Normal mode.

To enable the battery care function

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Control Center.

2 Double-click Power Management and then Battery Care Function.

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

4 Select the desired maximum charge level.

5 Click OK.

To enable the quick charge function

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Control Center.

2 Double-click Power Management and then Quick Charge Function.

3 Click to select the Enable Quick Charge Function check box and 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 Standby mode.

To remove the battery pack

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

2 Slide the battery LOCK switch (1) inward.

3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (2) inward and slightly slide the battery pack toward the back of the computer.

4 Lift the back edge of the battery pack to take it out of the battery compartment.

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 and then Turn Off Computer.

The Turn off computer window appears.

3 Click Turn O ff.

4 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for the computer to turn off

automatically. The power indicator light turns off.

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, point to All Programs, click Windows Update, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

❑ VAIO Update 4

Click Start, point to All Programs and VAIO Update 4, click Go to VAIO Web Support, 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 27)

❑ Using the Pointing Device (page 29)

❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 31)

❑ Using the Instant Mode (page 32)

❑ Using the Built-in Camera (page 33)

❑ Using the Memory Stick (page 34)

❑ Using Other Modules / Memory Cards (page 39)

❑ Using the Internet (page 43)

❑ Using the Network (LAN) (page 44)

❑ Using the Wireless LAN (page 46)

❑ Using the Bluetooth Function (page 49)

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 + % (F2): speaker switch Turns on and off the built-in speakers and the headphones.

Fn + 2 (F3/F4): volume Changes the volume level.

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

Fn + /T (F7): display output

Fn + / (F9/F10): zoom

To increase the volume, keep pressing the Fn+F4 keys or press the Fn+F4 keys and then the

M or , key. To decrease the volume, keep pressing the Fn+F3 keys or press the Fn+F3 keys and then the m or < key.

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.

Using Your VAIO Computer > Using the Keyboard

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + (F12): hibernate

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 switch to turn on the power. For details on power management, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 79).

Using Your VAIO Computer > Using the Pointing Device

Using the Pointing Device

The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, the pointing stick (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the pointing stick in combination with the buttons located below the space bar.

The pointer (2) moves in the direction that you push the pointing stick. The stronger you push the pointing stick, the faster moves the pointer.

Using Your VAIO Computer > Using the Pointing Device

Action Description

Point Push the pointing stick to place the pointer on an item or object.

Click Press the left button (3) or tap on the pointing stick once.

Double-click Press the left button or tap on the pointing stick twice in a row.

Right-click Press the right button (5) once. In many applications, this action displays a shortcut menu.

Drag Push the pointing stick in your desired direction while pressing the left button. Alternatively, you can tap on the pointing

Scroll Push the pointing stick up and down or sideways while pressing the center button (4). (The scroll function is available

✍

The pointer may move on its own on rare occasions, which does not indicate a malfunction. Leave the pointing stick untouched for a while. The pointer will behave normally.

The tip on the pointing stick is a consumable. You can replace it with one of the supplied spare caps when necessary.

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

stick twice in a row and, without taking your finger off the pointing stick on the second tap, push it in your desired direction. To drop the dragging object, take your finger off the pointing stick.

only with applications that support a pointing stick scroll feature.)

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

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