Sony VGN-S430P, VGN-S430PS, VGN-S460, VGN-S460B, VGN-S460P User Guide

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-S400 Series/VGN-T300 Series

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Contents

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

Documentation ...................................................................................................................................................................6

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

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

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

About the Indicator Lights ................................................................................................................................................23

Connecting a Power Source ............................................................................................................................................24

Using the Battery Pack.....................................................................................................................................................25

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely .............................................................................................................................31

Using Your VAIO Computer ...................................................................................................................................................32

Using the Keyboard..........................................................................................................................................................33

Using the Touch Pad........................................................................................................................................................36

Using Special-function Buttons ........................................................................................................................................37

Using the Optical Disc Drive ............................................................................................................................................39

Using PC Cards ...............................................................................................................................................................47

Using the Memory Stick Media ........................................................................................................................................52

Using the Internet.............................................................................................................................................................56

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) ...........................................................................................................................................57

Using the Bluetooth Functionality (on Selected Models Only) .........................................................................................66

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Using Peripheral Devices.......................................................................................................................................................73

Connecting a Port Replicator ...........................................................................................................................................74

Connecting External Speakers.........................................................................................................................................82

Connecting an External Display.......................................................................................................................................83

Selecting Display Modes..................................................................................................................................................87

Using the Multiple Monitors Function ...............................................................................................................................90

Connecting an External Microphone ................................................................................................................................93

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device............................................................................................................94

Connecting a Printer ........................................................................................................................................................97

Connecting an i.LINK Device ...........................................................................................................................................99

Connecting to a Network (LAN) .....................................................................................................................................101

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ......................................................................................................................................103

Setting the Password .....................................................................................................................................................104

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center....................................................................................................106

Using the Power Saving Modes.....................................................................................................................................109

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ..........................................................................................................114

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

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

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Precautions ..........................................................................................................................................................................137

On Handling the LCD Screen.........................................................................................................................................138

On Using the Power Source...........................................................................................................................................139

On Handling Your Computer..........................................................................................................................................140

On Handling Floppy Disks..............................................................................................................................................142

On Handling Discs .........................................................................................................................................................143

On Using the Battery Pack.............................................................................................................................................144

On Using Headphones...................................................................................................................................................145

On Handling Memory Stick Media..................................................................................................................................145

On Handling the Hard Disk ............................................................................................................................................146

Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................................................147

Computer .......................................................................................................................................................................148

System Security .............................................................................................................................................................158

Battery............................................................................................................................................................................160

Internet ...........................................................................................................................................................................162

Networking .....................................................................................................................................................................164

Bluetooth Technology ....................................................................................................................................................166

CDs and DVDs...............................................................................................................................................................171

Display ...........................................................................................................................................................................174

Printing ...........................................................................................................................................................................176

Microphone ....................................................................................................................................................................177

Mouse ............................................................................................................................................................................178

Speakers ........................................................................................................................................................................179

Touch Pad......................................................................................................................................................................180

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Keyboard........................................................................................................................................................................182

Floppy Disks...................................................................................................................................................................183

PC Cards........................................................................................................................................................................184

Audio/Video....................................................................................................................................................................185

Memory Stick Media.......................................................................................................................................................186

Peripherals .....................................................................................................................................................................187

Support Options ...................................................................................................................................................................188

Sony Support Information ..............................................................................................................................................188

Program Support Information.........................................................................................................................................191

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Before Use

Before Use

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

Documentation

Your Documentation contains printed information and user guides to read on your computer.

Printed Documentation

❑ Welcome mat — Contains overview of connections, setting up information, etc.
❑ Safety information — Contains safety guidelines and owner information.

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Before Use

Non-printed Documentation

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

included with your computer, as well as information on solving common problems.

❑ Specifications — The online Specifications sheet describes the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO

computer.
To view the online Specifications sheet:

1 Connect to the Internet.
2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport

/kdb.sony-latin.com/ for customers in Latin American countries or areas.

❑ VAIO Recovery Options Guide — Provides information about restoring individual software programs, software drivers, and

drive partition(s) or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings.
To access this online software information:

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Control Center.
2 Click the Categories tab and then the Documentation folder.
3 Click Recovery Guide.

for customers in USA and Canada, or at http:/

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Before Use

Ergonomic Considerations

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

❑ Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of you (1). Keep your forearms horizontal (2), with your

wrists in a neutral, comfortable position (3) while using the keyboard, touch pad, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang
naturally at your sides. Have breaks during sessions with your computer. Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles
or tendons.

❑ Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor.

A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far
backwards.

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Before Use

❑ Viewing angle of the computer's display – Use the display's tilting feature to find the best position. You can reduce eye

strain and muscle fatigue by adjusting the tilt of the display to the proper position. Adjust the brightness setting of the display
as well.

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

to avoid bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting
adds to your comfort and work effectiveness.

❑ Positioning an external display – When using an external display, set the display at a comfortable viewing distance. Make

sure the display screen is at eye level or slightly lower when you are sitting in front of the monitor.

Getting Started

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

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 11)
❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 23)
❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 24)
❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 25)
❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 31)

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Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

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

!

The following illustrations may appear different from your model, depending on the country or area of your residency.

VGN-S400 Series models

Front

A S1 button (page 37)
B S2 button (page 37)
C Num lock indicator (page 23)
D Caps lock indicator (page 23)
E Scroll lock indicator (page 23)
F LCD screen (page 138)
G Keyboard (page 33)
H Touch pad (page 36)
I Power indicator (page 23)
J Battery indicator (page 23)
K Hard disk drive indicator (page 23)
L Optical disc drive indicator (page 23)
M Memory Stick media indicator (page 23)

N WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator
O Bluetooth indicator
P WIRELESS switch

* Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functionalities are available on selected models

only.

*

(page 23)

*

(page 23)

*

(page 23)

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Getting Started

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Getting Started

A Speakers
B Power button
C Optical disc drive (page 39)
D Manual eject hole (page 171)
E Drive eject button (page 39)

F Memory Stick media slot
G Air vent

* Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick PRO

high speed and high capacity capabilities.

*

(page 52)

Back

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Getting Started

A Battery connector (page 25)

Right

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Getting Started

A i.LINK

®

(IEEE1394) S400 port (page 99)

B Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports
C Air vent
D DC In port (page 24)

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

*

(page 94)

Left

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Getting Started

A Network (Ethernet) port (page 101)
B Modem port (page 56)
C Microphone jack (page 93)
D Headphones jack (page 82)
E Monitor (VGA) port (page 83)
F PC Card slot (page 47)
G PC Card eject button (page 47)

Bottom

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Getting Started

A Port replicator connector (page 74)
B Air vents

VGN-T300 Series models

Front

A LCD screen (page 138)
B Power button/indicator
C Keyboard (page 33)
D Touch pad (page 36)
E SOUND EFFECT indicator (page 23)
F Mute indicator (page 23)
G Bluetooth indicator (page 23)

H WWAN (Wireless WAN) indicator
I WLAN (Wireless LAN) indicator (page 23)
J WIRELESS switch (page 57)
K Speakers
L Headphones jack (page 82)
M Microphone jack (page 93)
N Mute/SOUND EFFECT button (page 37)
O Volume buttons (page 37)

* On models sold in USA only.

*

(page 23)

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Getting Started

A Battery indicator (page 23)
B Hard disk drive indicator (page 23)
C Memory Stick media indicator (page 23)
D Num lock indicator (page 23)
E Caps lock indicator (page 23)
F Scroll lock indicator (page 23)
G DVD button (page 37)
H Play/Pause button (page 37)
I Stop button (page 37)
J Previous track button (page 37)
K Next track button (page 37)

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Getting Started

Back

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Getting Started

A DC In port (page 24)
B Battery connector (page 25)

Right

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Getting Started

A Optical disc drive (page 39)
B Manual eject hole (page 171)
C Drive eject button (page 39)
D Modem port (page 56)
E Network (Ethernet) port (page 101)

Left

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Getting Started

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

*1

(page 94)

B Monitor (VGA) port (page 83)
C i.LINK

®

(IEEE1394) S400 port (page 99)

D Air vent
E PC Card eject button (page 47)
F PC Card slot (page 47)

G Memory Stick media slot

*1

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*2

Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick PRO
high speed and high capacity capabilities.

*2

(page 52)

Bottom

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Getting Started

A Port replicator connector (page 74)
B Release latch (page 25)
C Air vent

Getting Started

About the Indicator Lights

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates when the power to the computer is on, blinks in Standby mode, and turns off when the computer is in

Battery e Illuminates when the computer is using battery power, blinks when the battery is running out of power, and double-

Memory Stick Pro/Duo

Optical disc drive

Mute %

SOUND EFFECT

Hard disk

Num Lock

Caps Lock

Scroll Lock

Bluetooth
WIRELESS LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running.

WIRELESS WAN

* On selected models only.

*

*

*

*

*

Hibernate mode or off.

blinks when the battery is charging.
Illuminates when data is read from or written to the Memory Stick media. (Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the

computer when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the Memory Stick media is not being used.
Illuminates when data is read from or written to the optical disc. When the indicator is off, the optical disc is not being

used.
Illuminates when the volume is turned off.

Illuminates when the SOUND EFFECT function is activated.

Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk. Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer
when this indicator is on.

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 Scroll Lock key to change how you scroll the display. Normal scrolling resumes when the Scroll Lock
indicator is off. The Scroll Lock 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.

Illuminates when the wireless WAN function is running.

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Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

To use the AC adapter

1 Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter.
2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).
3 Plug the cable attached 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.

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Getting Started

✍

Use your computer only with the supplied 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 use the AC adapter for a long period of time, put your computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 112). This power
saving mode saves you the time of shutting down in the normal way.

Using the Battery Pack

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

Installing the Battery Pack

To install the battery pack

VGN-S400 Series models

1 Turn off your computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the lock switch (1) to the UNLOCK position.

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

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Getting Started

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

VGN-T300 Series models

1 Turn off your computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the battery into the battery compartment until it clicks into place.

✍

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

!

This computer is designed to operate only with genuine Sony batteries.

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Getting Started

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

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

To charge the battery pack

1 Install the battery pack.
2 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery
charges).

Battery indicator light status Meaning

On The computer is using battery power.

Blinks The battery is running out of power.

Double blinks The battery is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

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Getting Started

✍

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

Keep the battery pack in the 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 attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and install a fully charged
battery.

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

The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When the 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 Standby or Hibernate. If

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

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

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Removing the Battery Pack

To remove the battery pack

VGN-S400 Series models

1 Turn off your computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the lock switch (1) to the UNLOCK position.

3 Slide and hold the release latch (2) and slide the battery away from the computer.

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Getting Started

Getting Started

VGN-T300 Series models

1 Turn off your computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide and hold the release latch (1) and slide the battery away from the computer.

✍

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

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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 your computer.
2 Click Start and then Turn Off Computer.

The Turn off computer window appears.
3 Click Turn Off.
4 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for your computer to turn off

automatically.

The power indicator light turns off.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 33)
❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 36)
❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 37)
❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 39)
❑ Using PC Cards (page 47)
❑ Using the Memory Stick Media (page 52)
❑ Using the Internet (page 56)
❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 57)
❑ Using the Bluetooth Functionality (on Selected Models Only) (page 66)

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer keyboard, but has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.
For more information on the standard keys, see Windows Help and Support Center and click on the Customizing your

computer link.

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Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + (F1): wireless switching

Fn + % (F2): speaker switch

Fn + 2 (F3/F4): speaker volume

Fn + 8 (F5/F6): brightness control Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

Fn + /T (F7): switch to the external display

Fn + (F10): zoom

Fn + (F12): Hibernate

*

*

*

*

Toggles between Bluetooth, Wireless LAN, and Wireless WAN functionalities.

Turns on and off the built-in speakers and the headphones.

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
To increase volume, press Fn+F4 and then M or ,, or keep pressing Fn+F4.
To decrease volume, press Fn+F3 and then m or <, or keep pressing Fn+F3.

To increase lightness intensity, press Fn+F6 and then M or ,, or keep pressing Fn+F6.
To decrease lightness intensity, press Fn+F5 and then m or <, or keep pressing Fn+F5.

Toggles between the LCD, external device (e.g. monitor) and both LCD and external device.

Changes the screen resolution to magnify/restore the screen view.

✍

The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view, as it is implemented by applying a lower resolution
to the LCD screen with a higher resolution.
This key combination is disabled during video playback. Make sure to quit such software before pressing the
key combination.
This key combination may not work with graphic images as it magnifies the screen view by changing the
resolution.
The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or the standard
view is restored because pressing this key combination changes the resolution.
When the LCD screen view is magnified, switching the view to the external display disables the function and
restores the standard view.

Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the states
of the system and the peripheral devices are written to the hard disk 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 the section Using the Power Saving Modes (page 109).

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Combinations/Feature Functions

Fn + B: bass boost

* On selected models only.

✍

Some functions are not available until Windows is launched.

*

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Turns on the Bass Boost function. This means that the bass sound level is enhanced at all levels
without distorting other frequencies.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Touch Pad

The keyboard contains a cursor-pointing device, your touch pad (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the
screen using the touch pad.

Action Description

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

Click Press the left button (3) once.

Double-click Press the left button twice.

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

Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button.

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

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

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Special-function Buttons

Your VAIO computer is provided with special buttons to help you use specific functions of the computer.

VGN-S400 Series models

Special-function button Functions

By default, the S1 button turns the volume on and off and the S2 button toggles the display output between the

S1/S2 buttons

LCD and external device. You can also link to these shortcut buttons another action that you execute often. See
Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center (page 106).

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Using Your VAIO Computer

VGN-T300 Series models

Special-function button Functions

The DVD button offers you great convenience for DVD/CD playback. Just press the DVD button to start/stop

DVD button

Play/Pause button

Stop button

Previous track button

Next track button

Mute/SOUND EFFECT button Turns the speaker volume on and off. You can also press and hold this shortcut button to activate the Soundstage

Vol um e buttons

(Volume up and Volume down)

playing movies and music. You can also link to this shortcut button another action that you execute often. Press
and hold the DVD button to launch VAIO Control Center. For more information, see Setting Up Your Computer
with VAIO Control Center (page 106).

Starts or pauses DVD/CD playback with the VAIO Zone software.

Stops DVD/CD playback with the VAIO Zone software.

Plays the previous chapter/movie in the DVD or the previous song in the CD during DVD/CD playback with the
VAIO Zone software. You can also press and hold this shortcut button for rewinding.

Plays the next chapter/movie in the DVD or the previous song in the CD during DVD/CD playback with the VAIO
Zone software. You can also press and hold this shortcut button for fast-forwarding.

Mastering Studio Audio Filter function and select the sound effects.

Increase and decrease the volume.

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Using the Optical Disc Drive

Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.

To insert a disc

1 Turn on the computer.
2 Press the drive eject button (1) to open the drive.

The tray slides out.
3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up until the disc clicks into place.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently.

!

Do not remove the optical disc when the computer is in a power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate). Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction.

✍

If you plan to use an external optical disc drive, connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled CD/DVD program.

✍

The location of the drive eject button depends on the model you purchased. See Locating Controls and Ports (page 11).

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Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs

Your computer plays and records CDs and DVDs, depending on the model you purchased. Check your specifications for the type
of optical disc drive installed on your computer. Use the table below to see which types of media your optical disc drive supports.

Optical disc drive Plays Records to

CD-ROM CD, CD-R, and CD-RW —

DVD-ROM DVD and most DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW

and DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

CD-RW CD, CD-R, and CD-RW CD-R and CD-RW

CD-RW/DVD-ROM CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, most DVD-R, DVD-RW,

DVD+R, DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

DVD-RW CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R,

DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

DVD±RW CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R,

DVD+R DL (Double Layer)

* On selected models only.

*

*

and DVD+RW

*

and DVD+RW

*

and DVD+RW

—

CD-R and CD-RW

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R and DVD-RW

CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R,
DVD+R DL (Double Layer)* and DVD+RW

!

This product is designed to playback discs that conform to the Compact Disc Digital Audio standard specifications (CD Standard). A DualDisc is a two sided

disc product which mates DVD recorded material on one side with digital audio material on the other side. Please be aware that the audio side (non-DVD

side) of a DualDisc may not play on this product because it does not conform to the CD Standard.

!

Due to the multiple formats of discs now available, when buying pre-recorded or blank discs for use with a Sony VAIO computer, be sure to read the notices

on the disc packaging carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer's optical disc drives. Sony does NOT guarantee the

compatibility of VAIO CD drives with discs that not compliant with the official "CD" format standard (or "DVD" standard in relation to DVD drives). USING

NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO PC OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING.

For inquiries about disc formats, contact the individual publisher of the pre-recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Notes on writing data onto a disc

❑ To make the data on a disc readable on an optical disc drive, you need to close the session when you eject it. To complete

this process, follow the instructions included with your software.

❑ Only use circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage the optical disc drive.
❑ Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data onto a disc.
❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data onto a disc.
❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software while writing data to a disc. This may cause the computer to malfunction.
❑ When using your software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications.
❑ Never touch the surface of the disc. Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors.
❑ Do not switch power modes while using the pre-installed software and while using the CD burning software.
❑ Never put stickers on discs. This will affect the use of the disc irreparably.
❑ Connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer or make sure your battery is at least 50 percent charged.
❑ Some DVD players and computer's DVD drives may not be able to play DVDs created by the VAIO Zone software.

✍

Ultra-speed CD-RW is supported.

Supports writing to DVD-RW discs compliant with DVD-RW version 1.1/1.2.

*

Supports 8cm disc reading, but does not support 8cm disc writing.

Because the maximum writing speed to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs is 2.4x speed, it may take a while to finish writing to such discs.

* Depending on the model you purchased. See the online Specifications sheet to see whether your model is equipped with the optical disc drive capable of DVD writing.

*

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Notes on playing DVDs

To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, you should follow these recommendations.
❑ You can play DVDs using the optical disc drive and the VAIO Zone software. See the help file on the VAIO Zone software for

details.

❑ Close all open applications before playing a DVD movie.
❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software to speed up disc access when playing a DVD. This may cause the computer to

malfunction.

❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before playing a disc.
❑ Some discs recorded at 20 or 24 bits may produce noise while playing. If you have audio devices connected, this may damage

your hearing and the speakers. Reduce the volume before playing a DVD.

❑ Do not switch power saving modes while the computer is playing a DVD.
❑ Region code indicators are labeled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the disc.

If the DVD is labeled "all," this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the world. If the region code of your

residence area is different from the label on the DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player.

!

You can change the DVD region code only a limited number of times. When you have exceeded this number, the drive's DVD region code is permanently

assigned and you will not be able to change it again. Reconfiguring your computer does not reset this count.

If you change the DVD region code while the WinDVD software is running, restart the software or eject the disc and re-insert it to make the new setting

effective.

❑ If your computer has Wireless LAN and Wireless LAN is activated, playing DVDs may cause some interruptions in audio and

video.
❑ When you are playing a DVD (video or audio) and you want to remove a USB device, such as USB-compatible speakers,

make sure you stop the DVD first. Removing a USB-compatible device during DVD (video or audio) playback may cause a

malfunction.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Playing CDs

To play an audio CD

1 Insert the disc into the optical disc drive.
2 If nothing appears on the desktop once you insert an audio CD disc, then click Start, point to All Programs, and click to open

a CD program, such as the SonicStage software.

If the Audio CD window appears, click to select an option.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Copying Files to CDs

To determine which type of CD your computer supports, see Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs (page 41).

To copy files to a CD-RW or CD-R

1 Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc into the optical disc drive.

If the CD Drive window appears, click Take no action.

2 Open Windows Explorer by pressing the Windows key and the E key simultaneously.
3 In the Folders panel on the left, locate the file(s) or folder(s) you want to copy and either:

*

❑ Right-click the file(s) or folder(s), point to Send To, and click the optical disc drive

❑ Drag the file(s) or folder(s) onto the optical disc drive icon in the Files Stored on This Computer panel.

4 Close Windows Explorer.
5 Click Start and then My Computer.
6 Click the optical disc drive icon under Devices with Removable Storage. A new window appears with the file(s) or folder(s)

you want to copy listed under Files Ready to Be Written to the CD.
7 In the CD Writing Tasks box, click Write these files to CD.
8 Follow the instructions in the CD Writing Wizard.

* The read/write drive letter designation may vary, depending on your system's hardware configuration.

name.

!

Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data onto a disc.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Playing DVDs

To play a DVD

1 Close all open programs.
2 Insert the DVD into the optical disc drive.
3 Click Start and point to All Programs.
4 Select a DVD software program to play the DVD.

For instructions on how to use a program, see the help guide included with the DVD software program.

Copying Files to DVDs (on Selected Models Only)

See the online Specifications sheet to see whether your model is equipped with an optical disc drive capable of DVD writing.

To copy files to a DVD-R or DVD-RW

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2 Insert the disc into the optical disc drive.
3 Click Start and point to All Programs.
4 Select a DVD software program you want to use from the submenu.

For instructions on how to use a program, see the help guide included with the DVD software program.

Using PC Cards

PC Cards allow you to connect portable external devices.

Inserting a PC Card

To insert a PC Card

VGN-S400 Series models

1 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up.
2 Gently push the PC Card into the slot.

The PC Card is automatically detected by your system.

The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears on the taskbar.

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VGN-T300 Series models

1 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out.
2 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card slot protector pops out.
3 Gently take hold of the protector and pull it out of the slot.
4 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up.
5 Gently push the PC Card into the slot.

The PC Card is automatically detected by your system.

The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears on the taskbar.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

Some devices may not function properly if you continually switch to Normal mode from Standby mode or Hibernate mode. For some PC Cards, if you

alternate between Normal mode and Standby or Hibernate mode while the card is inserted, you may find that a device connected to your system is not

recognized. Restart your system to correct the problem. Restarting will restore the original state of the computer.

While the card is inserted, your computer may not enter Hibernate power management mode. It may enter Standby mode. We recommend that you remove

the card before your computer enters Hibernate mode.

Some PC Cards or their functions may not be compatible with your computer.

If your computer has two PC Card slots:

- They can accommodate (at the same time) two Type I, two Type II or one Type III PC Card. These slots are compatible with CardBus ports.

- Use the lower slot for Type III PC Cards.

- Always use the same slot for a PC Card. Switching slots can cause problems with some PC Cards.

Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the PC Card manufacturer.

If an "!" mark appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties window, remove the software driver and then reinstall it.

Do not force a PC Card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins. If you have difficulty inserting a PC Card, check that you are inserting the PC Card

in the correct direction. See the manual supplied with your PC Card for more information on use.

Do not carry your computer while touching the head of a PC Card, because pressure or shock may damage the connector pins.

You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing a PC Card.

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Removing a PC Card

Follow the steps below to remove the PC Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not work
properly.

To remove a PC Card

✍

To remove a PC Card when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 7.

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.

The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.

2 Select the hardware you want to unplug.
3 Click Stop.

The Stop a Hardware Device window appears.
4 Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system.
5 Click OK.

A window appears, explaining that it is safe to remove the device.

6 Click OK.
7 Click Close.
8 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out.
9 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card pops out.
10 Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot.
11 If your computer is one of VGN-T300 Series models, insert the PC Card slot protector into the PC Card slot.
12 If the PC Card release button is still out, push it back in.

Using Your VAIO Computer

✍

If you remove the PC Card from the computer when it is still turned on, your system could malfunction and you might lose any unsaved data.

Before you remove the PC Card, click the PC Card icon on the taskbar and close the card. Close any applications that use the PC Card before removing the

card. Otherwise, data may be lost.

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Using the Memory Stick Media

Your VAIO computer supports the Memory Stick media. Memory Stick media is a compact, portable, and versatile device
especially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products, such as digital cameras, mobile phones
and other devices. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage.

For the latest information on Memory Stick media, visit the Sony online support Web site at http://www.sony.com/pcsupport
customers in USA and Canada, or at http://kdb.sony-latin.com/

for customers in Latin American countries or areas.

Write-protecting a Memory Stick Media

Some versions of Memory Stick media are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental
erasure or overwriting.

Move the tab horizontally or vertically
saved on the Memory Stick media. When the erasure prevention switch is on, data can be read from but not saved on the Memory
Stick media.

*

to set or release write-protection. When the erasure prevention switch is off, data can be

for

* Some versions of Memory Stick media do not have an erasure prevention switch.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Inserting a Memory Stick Media

There are two ways you can insert a Memory Stick media into your computer:

❑ Using the Memory Stick media slot;
❑ Using a PC Card slot. To do this, you need an optional PC Card adapter.

You can only insert one Memory Stick media at a time.

To insert a Memory Stick media using the Memory Stick media slot

1 Insert the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot.
2 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place.

The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and appears in your My Computer window as a local drive,

under the appropriate letter (depending on the configuration of your computer).

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✍

The location of the Memory Stick media slot depends on the model your purchased. See Locating Controls and Ports (page 11).

!

Be sure to hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction as you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging the computer or

the Memory Stick media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot if it does not insert smoothly.

Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the Memory Stick media slot. Inserting the media improperly may damage the computer.

✍

Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media. For more information on Memory Stick Duo media, visit the Memory Stick web site at http://

www.memorystick.com/en/.

Viewing the Contents

Depending on the model you purchased, the Memory Stick window may appear when you insert a Memory Stick media. From
this window, you can choose to view, print, copy or organize your images or data stored on the Memory Stick media. If the
Memory Stick window does not appear when you insert the Memory Stick media, follow these steps:

To view the contents

1 Click Start and then My Computer.

The My Computer window appears.
2 Click Memory Stick.

The Memory Stick window appears, displaying the contents stored on the Memory Stick media.

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Formatting a Memory Stick Media

Memory Stick media is formatted for immediate use when you purchase it. If you need to reformat Memory Stick media, use the
Memory Stick Formatter software that is provided with the media. For more information about using Memory Stick Formatter,
see the Memory Stick Formatter help file.

!

Formatting Memory Stick media erases all data previously saved to it. Before you reformat Memory Stick media, confirm that the media does not contain

files you want to keep. Back up important data before formatting the media.

To format a Memory Stick media

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, Memory Stick Utility, and click Memory Stick Formatter.

The Memory Stick Formatter window appears.

2 Click Start Format, and follow the on-screen instructions.
3 After formatting, click Exit.

Removing a Memory Stick Media

To remove a Memory Stick media using the Memory Stick media slot

1 Check that the Memory Stick media indicator is off.
2 Push the Memory Stick media in toward the computer.

The Memory Stick media ejects.

3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot.

!

Always remove the Memory Stick media gently, or it may pop out unexpectedly.

Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Memory Stick media indicator is turned on. If you do, you may lose data. Large volumes of data may take

time to load, so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Stick media.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Internet

Setting Up a Dial-up Internet Connection

Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line via a telephone cable (not
supplied). Once you set up your telephone cable, you're ready to connect to the Internet.

To connect a telephone cable

1 Plug one end of the phone cable (1) into the modem port on the computer.
2 Plug the other end into the wall jack (2).

✍

Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private

branch exchange (PBX). Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem.

If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter, the modem or connected device may not work properly.

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To set up a dial-up connection to the Internet

1 Click Start, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and click New Connection Wizard.

The New Connection Wizard appears.

2 Click Next. If the Location Information window appears, follow the on-screen instructions.
3 If it is not already selected, click to select Connect to the Internet, and click Next.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

Using the Sony Wireless LAN (WLAN), all your digital devices with built-in WLAN functionality communicate freely with each other
through a powerful network. A WLAN is a network in which a user can connect to a local area network (LAN) through a wireless
(radio) connection. So there is no need anymore to pull cables or wires through walls and ceilings.

The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities, but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming. You can still access
information, internet/intranet and network resources, even in the middle of a meeting, or as you move from one place to another.

You can communicate without an Access Point, which means that you can communicate between a limited number of computers
(ad-hoc). Or you can communicate through an Access Point, which allows you to create a full infrastructure network
(infrastructure).

❑ Users in USA

❑ VGN-T300 Series models

Please see the SmartWi Connection Utility Guide for setting up Wireless LAN and Wireless WAN functionalities.

❑ VGN-S400 Series models

Please see the following for setting up Wireless LAN functionality.

❑ Users in Canada and Latin American countries or areas

Please see the following for setting up Wireless LAN functionality.

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✍

WLAN uses the IEEE802.11b/g standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes the encryption method: Wired Equivalent Privacy

(WEP), which is a security protocol and WiFi Protected Access (WPA - Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, WiFi Protected Access is a

specification of standards based, interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing WiFi

networks. WPA has been designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE802.11i specification. It utilizes the enhanced data encryption TKIP (Temporal Key

Integrity Protocol) in addition to user authentication using 802.1X and EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol)). Data encryption protects the vulnerable

wireless link between clients and Access Points. Besides that, there are other typical LAN security mechanisms to ensure privacy, such as: password

protection, end-to-end encryption, virtual private networks, and authentication.

Wireless LAN devices using the IEEE802.11a standard and the ones using the IEEE802.11b or g standard cannot communicate because the frequencies are

different.

IEEE802.11b: The standard speed is 11 Mbps, or about 30 to 100 times faster than a standard dial up.

IEEE802.11a/g: The standard speed is 54 Mbps, or about 5 times faster than a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE802.11b standard.

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Communicating without an Access Point (Ad-hoc)

An ad-hoc network is a network in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves, with no other central
controller or Access Point. Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network. You can set up an ad-hoc
network easily at home.

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To communicate without an Access Point (ad-hoc)

1 Turn on the WIRELESS (on models with the Bluetooth functionality*1) or WIRELESS LAN (on models without the Bluetooth

functionality) switch.

On models with the Bluetooth functionality, double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch

window. Select the Enable 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN check box and click OK.

2 Click Start and then Control Panel.
3 Click Network and Internet Connections.
4 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.
5 Right-click Wireless Network Connection, then click Properties.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.
6 Select the Wireless Networks tab.
7 Click the Add… button.

The Wireless network properties window appears.
8 Enter a Network name (SSID)

You can choose a 32-digit alphanumeric name.
9 Select Open from the Network Authentication drop-down box.
10 Select WEP from the Data Encryption drop-down box.
11 Deselect the The key is provided for me automatically option button.

Some information becomes visible.
12 Enter the Network key

*2

The network key should be 5 or 13 alphanumeric characters or 10 or 26 hexadecimal

whatever you want.

*2

.

.

*3

characters long. You can choose

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13 Enter exactly the same Network key again, for confirmation.
14 Select the check box This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network; wireless access points are not used at the

bottom of the screen.
15 Click OK.

Yo u r Network name appears in the Preferred networks.
16 Click Advanced.

The Advanced window appears.

17 Select the Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only option button.
18 Click Close.
19 Click OK.

Your computer is ready to communicate with another computer.

*1

See the online Specifications sheet to see whether your model is equipped with the Bluetooth functionality.

*2

If you want to communicate between two or more computers, you need to configure all these computers the exact same way. This means that you need to enter the same
Network name and the same Network key on all computers as on the first computer you configure.

*3

Hexadecimal: A number representation using the digits 0-9, with their usual meaning, plus the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent hexadecimal digits with values of (decimal) 10
to 15.

✍

An ad-hoc network does not support WPA.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To disconnect from a computer-to-computer (ad-hoc) network

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.
2 Click Network and Internet Connections.
3 Click Network Connections.

The Network Connections window appears.
4 In the right panel under LAN or High-Speed Internet, double-click Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection Status window appears.
5 Click Properties.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears.
6 On the Wireless Networks tab, click Advanced.

The Advanced window appears.
7 Click to select Any available network (access point preferred), and click Close.
8 Click OK.
9 Click Close.
10 Turn off the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

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Communicating with an Access Point (Infrastructure)

An infrastructure network is a network that extends an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an Access
Point, for example the Sony Access Point. The Access Point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a central controller
for the Wireless LAN. The Access Point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific
range.

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To connect to a wireless network

Use the VAIO Wireless Utility to guide you through the set up process and provide you with more detailed information about
wireless connections.

1 Make sure an access point is set up. See the instructions that accompanied the access point for more information.

*

2 Turn on the WIRELESS (on models with the Bluetooth functionality

) or WIRELESS LAN (on models without the Bluetooth

functionality) switch.

On models with the Bluetooth functionality, double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch

window. Select the Enable 2.4 GHz Wireless LAN check box and click OK.
3 Click Start, point to All Programs, and click VAIO Wireless Utility.

The VAIO Wireless Utility appears.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

* See the online Specifications sheet to see whether your model is equipped with the Bluetooth functionality.

To disconnect from a wireless network

❑ Turn off the WIRELESS or WIRELESS LAN switch.

!

Turning off the wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents, files, or resources may result in data loss.

✍

The WPA key needs to contain at least 8 characters.

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Wireless LAN Channel Selection

In an 802.11b/g configuration, channel 1 to 11 can be used.

(a) With an Access Point ("Infrastructure")

❑ The channel used will be the channel selected by the Access Point.

!

For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the Access Point, see the access point manual.

(b) Without an Access Point ("ad-hoc")

❑ If the Wireless connection is initiated by the VAIO computer, channel 11 will be selected.
❑ If the Wireless connection is initiated by a peer Wireless LAN equipment, the Wireless LAN communication will make use of

the channel selected by the peer Wireless LAN equipment.

✍

The 2.4 GHz bandwidth used by wireless LAN compatible devices is also used by other various devices. Although technologies to minimize interference from

other devices that uses the same bandwidth are employed on wireless LAN compatible devices, such interference may cause lower communication speed,

narrower communication range, or broken wireless connections.

The communication speed varies depending on the distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the device

configuration, the radio conditions, and the software in use. In addition, communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions.

The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices, existence of obstacles between such devices, the radio

conditions, the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls, and the software in use.

Deploying IEEE802.11b and IEEE802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference. Taking

this into consideration, the IEEE802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with IEEE802.11b products.

When the communication speed is not as fast as expected, changing the wireless channel on the access point may increase the communication speed.

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Using the Bluetooth Functionality (on Selected Models Only)

You can establish wireless communication between your computer and other Bluetooth devices such as another computer or a
mobile phone. You can transfer data between these devices without cables and up to 32 feet (10 meters) range in open space.

See the online Specifications sheet to see whether your model is equipped with the Bluetooth functionality.

❑ Users in USA

❑ VGN-T300 Series models

Please see the SmartWi Connection Utility Guide for setting up Bluetooth functionality.

❑ VGN-S400 Series models

Please see the following for setting up Bluetooth functionality.

❑ Users in Canada and Latin American countries or areas

Please see the following for setting up Bluetooth functionality.

To connect to a Bluetooth device

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.

2 Double-click ( / ) on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window.
3 Select the Bluetooth option.
4 Click OK.

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Notes on using the Bluetooth functionality

❑ The data transfer rate varies, depending on the following conditions:

❑ Obstacles, such as walls, located between devices

❑ Distance between devices

❑ Material used in walls

❑ Proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones

❑ Radio frequency interference and other environmental conditions

❑ Device configuration

❑ Type of software application

❑ Type of operating system

❑ Use of both Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functionalities at the same time on the computer

❑ Size of file being exchanged
❑ Note that due to limitations of the Bluetooth standard, large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer

due to electromagnetic interference from the environment.
❑ All Bluetooth devices must be certified to make sure that the applicable standard requirements are maintained. Even if

standards are met, individual device performance, specifications, and operation procedures can vary. Data exchange may

not be possible in all situations.

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❑ The 2.4 GHz band with which Bluetooth devices or wireless LAN devices work, is used by various devices. Bluetooth devices

use the technology to minimize the interference from other devices that use the same wave length. Communication speed

and distances can be inferior to the standard values. Interference from other devices may also stop communications. Do not

simultaneously use the Bluetooth functionality and wireless communication devices which use the 2.4 GHz band, such as a

wireless LAN PC Card.
❑ The Bluetooth functionality may not work depending on the third party devices or the software version used by third party

companies.

Bluetooth Security

The Bluetooth wireless technology has an authentication function, which allows you to determine whom you choose to
communicate. With the authentication function, you can avoid any anonymous Bluetooth device to access your computer.

The first time two Bluetooth devices communicate, a common Passkey (a password required for authentication) should be
determined for both devices to be registered. Once a device is registered, there is no need to re-enter the Passkey.

To avoid being detected by other Bluetooth devices, you can change the Bluetooth settings, as described on the following pages.

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Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device

You can connect your computer to a Bluetooth device such as another computer or a mobile phone without the use of any cables.

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To communicate with another Bluetooth device

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.
2 Click Start and then Control Panel.
3 Click Network and Internet Connections.
4 Click Bluetooth Devices.

The Bluetooth Device window appears.
5 Click Add.

The Add Bluetooth Device Wizard window appears.
6 Select My device is set up and ready to be found and then click Next.
7 Select the remote device to which you want to connect. If necessary, scroll up and down in the Bluetooth Device List to

make your selection. Then click Next.
8 Choose one of the following options:

❑ If you want Windows to provide you with a password, select Choose a Passkey for me.

❑ If the documentation of the other Bluetooth device contains a password, click Use the passkey found in the

documentation and enter the passkey.

❑ If you want to create your own passkey, click Let me use my own passkey and enter a passkey.

❑ If your device does not use a passkey, click Don't use a passkey.

9 Click Next to continue.
10 Once the remote device has been successfully authenticated, click Finish.

✍

The passkey can be different each time, but must be the same at both ends.

For certain devices, such as a mouse, no passkey can be entered.

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To transfer data from or to another Bluetooth device

1 Choose Start, point to All Programs, Accessories, Communications, and then click Bluetooth File Transfer Wizard.

The Bluetooth File Transfer Wizard window appears.

2 Click Next to continue.
3 Follow the on-line instructions.

To connect to a network with Bluetooth device

With Bluetooth connections, you can join a personal area network (PAN), which is an Internet Protocol (IP)-based network.

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.
2 Click Start and then Control Panel.
3 Click Network and Internet Connections.
4 Click Network Connection.
5 Click Bluetooth Network Connection.

The Bluetooth Personal Area Network Device window appears.

❑ If you wish to connect to a Bluetooth device that is not displayed, click Add.

❑ If you wish to connect to a displayed Bluetooth device, select the device's icon and click Connect.

6 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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Stopping the Bluetooth Connection

To stop the Bluetooth connection, turn off the WIRELESS switch. The Bluetooth indicator turns off.

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Using Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by using the various ports on your unit.

❑ Connecting a Port Replicator (page 74)
❑ Connecting External Speakers (page 82)
❑ Connecting an External Display (page 83)
❑ Selecting Display Modes (page 87)
❑ Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 90)
❑ Connecting an External Microphone (page 93)
❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 94)
❑ Connecting a Printer (page 97)
❑ Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 99)
❑ Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 101)

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Port Replicator

Attaching a port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as a printer and an external
display.

A port replicator may be delivered with your computer, depending on the model you purchased. If not, you can additionally
purchase an optional port replicator.

Locating Ports on the Port Replicator

Port replicator for VGN-S400 Series models

A Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports
B Printer port (page 97)

C DVI-D por t

*2

(page 84)

D Monitor (VGA) port (page 84)
E Network (Ethernet) port (1000BASE-T / 100BASE-TX /

*3

10BASE-T

) (page 101)

F DC In port (page 24)

*1

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*2

This port is disabled when a model with the Intel 915GM integrated video
controller is docked.

*3

Only selected models support a 1000BASE-T connection.

*1

(page 94)

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Using Peripheral Devices

Port replicator for VGN-T300 Series models

A DC In port (page 24)
B Network (Ethernet) port (1000BASE-T / 100BASE-TX /

10BASE-T

C Monitor (VGA) port (page 84)
D Printer port (page 97)

E Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports

*1

Only selected models support a 1000BASE-T connection.

*2

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

!

The port replicator can be powered only through the AC adapter supplied with your computer. Do not unplug the AC adapter from the port replicator and the

AC outlet while using the port replicator; this may cause data damage or hardware malfunctions.

✍

The printer port on the port replicator is intended for printer connections only.

*1

) (page 101)

*2

(page 94)

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Attaching Your Computer to the Port Replicator

To attach your computer to the port replicator

VGN-S400 Series models

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.
2 Plug the power cord (1) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.

!

Make sure to use the supplied AC adapter.

3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (2) into the DC In port (3) on the port replicator (4).

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Using Peripheral Devices

4 Open the port replicator connector cover.

5 Slide out the front lever.

6 Align the bottom connector of the computer with the connector on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into place.

7 Turn on the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

VGN-T300 Series models

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.
2 Plug the power cord (1) into the AC adapter and an AC outlet.
3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter (2) into the DC In port (3) on the port replicator (4).

4 Remove the port replicator connector cover.

!

Your computer comes with the cover attached to the port replicator connector. When you remove the port replicator connector cover, make sure to keep the

cover at hand.

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5 Align the bottom connector of the computer with the connector on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into place.

6 Turn on the computer.

✍

Use the AC adapter that comes with your computer or the optional Sony adapter.

!

Do not move your computer while attached to the port replicator; this may detach the port replicator and cause damage to the port replicator and the

computer.

Disconnecting Your Computer from the Port Replicator

!

To prevent loss of unsaved data, be sure to turn off your computer before disconnecting it from the port replicator.

To disconnect your computer from the port replicator

VGN-S400 Series models

1 Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals.
2 Push the release buttons (1) at the same time.

3 Lift the computer away from the port replicator.

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4 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of your computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

VGN-T300 Series models

1 Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals.
2 Lift the computer away from the port replicator.

3 Replace the port replicator connector cover.

✍

It is extremely important to close the port replicator connector cover after disconnecting your computer from the port replicator. If the cover is left open,

dust may get inside and damage the computer.

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

When not using the port replicator for VGN-T300 Series models, make sure to keep the cover on the port replicator connector.

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Connecting External Speakers

You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers.

To connect external speakers

1 Plug the speaker cable (1) into the headphones jack (2) i.
2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker (3).
3 Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.

✍

Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use.

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!

Do not place floppy disks on the speakers; their magnetic field may damage the data on the disks.

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Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display to your computer. For example, you can use your computer with a computer display or a
projector.

❑ Connecting a Computer Display (page 84)
❑ Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display (page 85)
❑ Connecting a Projector (page 86)

✍

Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.

Connected external displays are used as second screens.

On Windows systems only, you can also use an external display to set up multiple monitors.

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Connecting a Computer Display

You can connect a computer display (monitor) either directly to your computer or via the (optional) port replicator.

To connect a computer display

1 If necessary, plug one end of the display's power cord (1) into the display, and the other end into an AC outlet.
2 If you want to connect a VGA monitor, plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the

computer or on the port replicator.
3 If your computer is one of VGN-S400 Series models with the NVIDIA video controller and you want to connect a TFT/DVI

monitor, plug the display cable (not supplied) into the DVI-D port on the port replicator.

✍

The port replicator for VGN-S400 Series models is equipped with the DVI-D port. When a model with the Intel 915GM integrated video controller is docked,

however, this port is disabled. It is enabled only when a model with the models with the NVIDIA video controller is docked.

DVI-D stands for Digital Visual Interface - Digital. It is a type of DVI connector that supports only digital video signals (no analog video signals). It has 24

pins.

A DVI-I connector (Digital Visual Interface - Integrated) supports digital video and analog video signals. It has 29 pins.

!

You can not connect a DVI-I to VGA cable to a DVI-D port!

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Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display

You can connect the computer to a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone.

To connect a multimedia computer display

1 Plug the power cord of the multimedia computer display (1) into an AC outlet.
2 Plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the computer or on the (optional) port replicator.
3 Plug the speaker cable (4) into the headphones jack (5) i on the computer.
4 Plug the microphone cable (6) into the microphone jack (7) m on the computer.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Projector

You can connect a projector (for example, the Sony LCD projector) directly to your computer or via the port replicator.

To connect a projector

1 Connect the power cord (1) of the projector into an AC outlet.
2 Plug the RGB signal cable (2) into the monitor (VGA) port (3) a on the computer or on the (optional) port replicator.
3 Plug the audio cable (4) (not supplied) into the headphones jack (5) i.
4 Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the jack and port on the projector (6).

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Selecting Display Modes

You can select which display to be used as the primary monitor when an external display (desktop monitor, etc.) is connected to
the computer. The procedure for selecting a display depends on the video controller used in your VAIO computer. See the online
Specifications Sheet for detailed information on the video controller.

By default, you can also toggle the display output between the LCD and external device with the S2 button or the DVD button,
depending on the model you purchased. See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center (page 106) for more
information.

If you want to work on your computer's LCD and the external display at the same time, see Using the Multiple Monitors
Function (page 90) for more information.

Using Peripheral Devices

To select a display

Models with the Intel video controller

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.
2 Click Appearance and Themes.
3 Click Display.
4 Click the Settings tab.
5 Click Advanced.
6 Click the tab with its name beginning with Intel(R).
7 Click Graphic Properties.
8 Click the Devices tab to select a display.
9 Click OK.

✍

You may not be able to display on your computer's LCD and the external display or projector at the same time, depending on the type of your external display

or projector.

Before turning on your computer, turn on the peripheral devices.

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Models with the NVIDIA video controller

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.
2 Click Appearance and Themes.
3 Click Display.
4 Click the Settings tab.
5 Click Advanced.
6 Click the tab with its name beginning with GeForce.
7 Select nView Display Settings from the left menu.

To change the current display, select the desired display from the Current display drop-down list.

To display the output on your computer's LCD and the external display at the same time, select Clone from the nView Display

mode drop-down list.

To specify displays, use the Primary Display/Secondary Display drop-down list.
8 Click OK and then YES.

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Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you
have an external display attached to the monitor (VGA) port, your computer's LCD and the external display can function as a
single desktop.

You can move the cursor from one display to the other. This allows you to drag objects, such as an open application window or
a toolbar, from one display to the other.

✍

Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

Certain software applications may not be compatible with Multiple Monitors settings.

Make sure that your computer does not enter Standby or Hibernate mode while you are using Multiple Monitors mode; otherwise your computer may not

return to Normal mode.

If you set different colors on each display, do not divide one single window on two displays; otherwise your software may not work properly.

Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

Using Peripheral Devices

To select the Multiple Monitors mode

Models with the Intel video controller

1 Right-click on the desktop to display the context menu.
2 Point to Graphics Options and click Graphics Properties.
3 Select the Devices tab.
4 Click Extended Desktop.

To change the primary and secondary device settings, use the Primary Device and Secondary Device drop-down lists under

Extended Desktop Settings.
5 Click OK.

If the Monitor Settings window appears, click OK.

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Models with the NVIDIA video controller

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.
2 Click Appearance and Themes.
3 Click Display.
4 Select the Settings tab.
5 Click Advanced.
6 Click the tab with its name beginning with GeForce.
7 Select nView Display Settings from the left menu.
8 Select Dualview from the nView Display Mode drop-down list.
9 Select Laptop Display from the Primary display drop-down list.
10 Click OK.

✍

To deactivate the Multiple Monitors mode, deselect the check box in Step 6.

✍

On VGN-S400 Series models, you can also select and deactivate the Multiple Monitors mode just by pressing one of the S buttons if you have changed the

button assignment to Multiple Monitors with VAIO Control Center. For details on changing the button assignment, see Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO

Control Center (page 106).

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✍

Additionally, you can set the display colors and resolution for each display and customize the Multiple Monitors mode.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting an External Microphone

If you need to use a sound input device (for example, to chat on the Internet) you need to plug in an external microphone.

To connect an external microphone

Plug the microphone cable (1) into the microphone jack (2) m.

✍

Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.

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Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

To prevent your computer and/or USB devices from damage, observe the following:

❑ When moving your computer with USB devices connected, avoid any shock or force to the USB ports.
❑ Do not put your computer into a bag or carrying case when it has USB devices connected.

Connecting a USB Mouse

To connect a USB mouse

1 Choose the USB port (1) you prefer to use.
2 Plug the USB mouse cable (2) into the USB port.

You can now use your USB mouse (3).

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✍

The VAIO USB mouse software driver is preinstalled on your computer. As a result, you only need to plug the USB mouse into the USB port and you can

start working.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a USB Floppy Disk Drive

You can purchase a USB floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer.

To connect a USB floppy disk drive

1 Choose the USB port you prefer to use.
2 Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable into the USB port. The VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing up.

Your USB floppy disk drive is now ready for use.

!

When using a USB floppy disk drive, do not apply force on the USB port. This may cause a malfunction.

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Disconnecting a USB floppy disk drive

You can disconnect a USB floppy disk drive when the computer is on or off. Disconnecting the drive when the computer is in a
power saving mode (Standby or Hibernate) may cause the computer to malfunction.

If your computer is off, you can unplug the USB cable directly from the computer.

To disconnect a USB floppy disk drive

1 Close all programs accessing the floppy disk drive.
2 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.

The Safely Remove Hardware window appears.
3 Select the floppy disk drive you want to unplug.
4 Click Stop.

The Stop a Hardware device window appears.
5 Make sure the floppy disk drive is selected, and click OK. A message appears stating it is now safe to remove the hardware

device.
6 Remove the floppy disk drive from the computer.

Connecting a Printer

You can connect a Windows-compatible printer to your computer to print documents.

Connecting a Printer Using the USB Port

You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to your computer.

To connect a printer using the USB port

1 Plug the printer power cord into an AC outlet (1).

2 Choose the USB port (3) you prefer to use.
3 Plug one end of a USB printer cable (2) into the USB port and the other end to your printer.

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Connecting a Printer Using the Printer Port

To connect a printer using the printer port

1 Plug the printer power cord (1) into an AC outlet.

2 Plug the printer cable (2) supplied with your printer into the printer port (3) on the computer or on the (optional) port

*

replicator

* Depending on the model you purchased. See the online Specifications sheet for details on your model.

✍

Before connecting the printer, turn off your computer and the printer, and unplug the AC adapter and the power cord.

.

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Connecting an i.LINK Device

Notes on connecting i.LINK devices

❑ Your computer includes an i.LINK (IEEE1394) port, which you can use to connect to an i.LINK device such as a digital video

camera recorder or to connect two VAIO computers in order to copy, delete or edit files.

❑ The i.LINK port of your computer does not supply power to external devices generally powered by i.LINK ports.
❑ The i.LINK port supports transfer rates up to 400 Mbps; however, the actual transfer rate depends on the transfer rate of the

external device.
❑ i.LINK cables compatible with your VAIO computer include cables with the following part numbers:

VMC-IL4415 (a 1.5 meter cable with a 4-pin connector at each end), VMC-IL4408 Series (a 0.8 meter cable with a 4-pin

connector at each end).

❑ The optional i.LINK cables may not be available, depending on your country or region.
❑ An i.LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed.
❑ The i.LINK connection varies depending on the software applications, operating system and i.LINK compatible devices you

use. Refer to the manual that came with your software for more information.
❑ Check the working conditions and OS compatibility of i.LINK-compatible PC peripherals (for example, an HDD or CD-RW

drive) before you connect them to your computer.

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Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder

To connect a digital video camera recorder

1 Plug one end of the i.LINK cable (1) into the i.LINK port (2) on the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out ports (3) on

the digital video camera recorder.
2 Launch the DVgate Plus software.

✍

On Sony digital video cameras, ports labeled DV Out, DV In/Out or i.LINK are i.LINK-compatible.

The Sony digital video camera recorder shown here is an example; your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently.

You cannot access the pictures stored on a Memory Stick media when using an i.LINK connection.