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Documentation
The following documents are included with your Sony VAIO® computer.
Printed Documentation
❑ Quick Start Guide
Describes the process from unpacking to starting up your VAIO.
❑ Troubleshooting and Recovery Guide (this booklet)
Contains solutions to common problems and computer malfunctions,
an explanation of how to make a backup copy of your data and
recover your computer system, and sources of support information.
❑ Regulations, Warranty, EULA and Service Support
Contains Sony guarantee conditions, safety / regulations,
modem regulations, wireless LAN regulations,
wireless WAN regulations, Bluetooth regulations,
end user software license agreement, and
Sony support services information.
Non-Printed Documentation
❑ User Guide
Explains features of your computer. It also includes information about
the software programs included with your computer, as well as
information on solving common problems. User Guide is provided in
the PDF format, which you can easily browse through and print out.
To view the on-screen guide:
1 Double-click the VAIO User Guide icon on the desktop.
2 Open the folder for your language.
3 Select the guide you want to read.
❑ Specifications
The online specifications describe the hardware and software
configurations of your VAIO computer.
To view the online specifications:
1 Connect to the Internet.
2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at
http://www.vaio-link.com.
Important
It is strongly recommended to create recovery discs immediately after
your computer is ready for use because there are no recovery discs
provided with the computer.
For instructions on how to create the recovery discs, see “Creating your
own recovery discs” on page 18.
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Contents
Documentation ....................................................................2
Printed Documentation.......................................................................... 2
Non-Printed Documentation .................................................................. 2
Important ............................................................................................... 2
Introduction to this guide .....................................................5
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting...................................................................8
Computer............................................................................................... 8
What should I do if my computer does not start?............................ 8
What should I do if a BIOS error appears
when I turn on my computer? .................................................. 9
What should I do if the power indicator (Green) lights
but my screen remains blank?................................................. 9
What should I do if my computer or software
stops responding? ................................................................. 10
What should I do if the battery indicator is flashing
and my computer does not start? .......................................... 10
What should I do if a message window, notifying of
incompatibility or improper installation of the battery pack,
appears and my computer enters Hibernate mode? ............. 11
What should I do if Windows does not start,
showing a message, when I start my computer? .................. 11
What should I do if I cannot remember the BIOS password? ....... 12
System Security................................................................................... 13
How can I protect my computer against security threats,
such as viruses?.................................................................... 13
How do I keep my antivirus software updated? ............................ 13
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Recovering your VAIO system
Before using your computer.............................................. 16
Creating your own recovery discs........................................................ 18
To create recovery discs ...............................................................19
Backing up and restoring your data using
Backup and Restore Center .........................................................20
To back up your data..................................................................... 20
To create a restore point ...............................................................25
Backing up and restoring your data with the VAIO software................ 28
To back up your data with Rescue Data........................................28
To restore your data with VAIO Data Restore Tool ....................... 30
Restoring the preinstalled software or software drivers .......................31
To use Reinstall Programs or Drivers............................................ 31
Finding out what to do in case of computer malfunctions...... 32
If your computer does not work properly.............................................. 32
If Windows starts ...........................................................................33
If Windows does not start ..............................................................34
Recovering your VAIO system.......................................... 35
Before starting the recovery process ................................................... 35
Recovering your VAIO system when you can start Windows .............. 37
To restore the C drive.................................................................... 37
To restore your entire computer system........................................38
Recovering your VAIO system when you cannot start Windows ......... 39
Changing the partition sizes ............................................. 40
About hard disk partitioning .................................................................40
Creating a hard disk partition ............................................................... 40
To create a partition with the Windows feature .............................41
To create a partition with recovery discs ....................................... 41
Erasing everything on your hard disk ............................... 42
Erasing all of your data on your hard disk with
Wipe and Erase Data ................................................................... 42
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Introduction to this guide
Introduction to this guide
This guide covers the following important areas:
❑ If you have any problems with your VAIO® computer, solutions are
offered in this booklet in the form of a troubleshooting guide. See
“Troubleshooting” on page 8.
There are more troubleshooting topics on the Sony online support
Web site. Go to http://www.vaio-link.com.
Always read these sections before contacting VAIO-Link or your local
Sony dealer directly.
You can also search for more information by using Windows Help and
Support. Windows Help and Support is a comprehensive resource for
practical advice, tutorials, and demonstrations to help you learn to use
your computer. Use the Search feature, Index, or table of contents to
view all Windows Help resources, including those that are on the
Internet.
To access Windows Help and Support, click Start and Help and
Support. Or go to Windows Help and Support by pressing and holding
the Microsoft Windows key and pressing the F1 key.
❑ An important part of using your computer is being able to perform a
recovery of the system and applications. This booklet explains everything
you need to know about recovering your system. It is very important that
you read this section before using your computer, and always before
attempting to make a recovery of any kind. See
computer” on page 16.
“Before using your
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Troubleshooting
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Troubleshooting
Computer
What should I do if my computer does not start?
❑ Make sure your computer is securely plugged into a power source and
turned on. Make sure the power indicator shows the power is on.
❑ Make sure the battery pack is installed properly and charged.
❑ Make sure the floppy disk drive (if applicable) is empty.
❑ If your computer is plugged into a power strip or an uninterruptible power
supply (UPS), make sure the power strip or UPS is plugged into a power
source and turned on.
❑ If you are using an external display, make sure it is plugged into a power
source and turned on. Make sure the brightness and contrast controls
are adjusted correctly. See the manual that came with your display for
more information.
❑ Disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery pack. Wait three to
five minutes. Reinstall the battery pack, reconnect the AC adapter, and
then press the power button to turn on your computer.
❑ Condensation may cause your computer to malfunction. If this occurs, do
not use the computer for at least one hour.
❑ On all models except VGN-TZ series models, remove any extra memory
modules you may have installed since purchase.
❑ Check that you are using the supplied Sony AC adapter. For your safety,
use only the genuine Sony rechargeable battery pack and AC adapter,
which are supplied by Sony for your VAIO computer.
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Troubleshooting
What should I do if a BIOS error appears when I turn
on my computer?
If the message “Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to setup” appears at the bottom
of the screen, follow these steps:
1 Press the F2 key.
The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, restart the computer and press
the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo appears.
2 Set the date (month/day/year). Press the Enter key.
3 Press the m key to select System Time, and then set the time (hour:
minute: second). Press the Enter key.
4 Press the , key to select the Exit tab, and then press the F9 key.
At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.
5 Select Exit Setup, and press the Enter key.
At the confirmation prompt, press the Enter key.
Your computer restarts.
If this occurs frequently, contact VAIO-Link.
What should I do if the power indicator (Green)
lights but my screen remains blank?
Follow these steps:
1 Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that
the power indicator goes out. Then turn on your computer again.
2 If your computer screen still remains blank, unplug the AC adapter,
remove the battery pack, and leave the computer for about a minute.
Then reinstall the battery pack, plug in the AC adapter, and turn on the
computer again.
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What should I do if my computer or software stops
responding?
❑ If your computer stops responding while a software application is
running, press the Alt+F4 keys to close the application window.
❑ If the Alt+F4 keys do not work, click Start, the arrow next to the Lock
button, and Shut Down to turn off your computer.
❑ If your computer does not turn off, press the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys and
click the arrow
If the Windows Security window appears, click Shut Down.
Turning off your computer with the Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys or the power button may
cause loss of unsaved data.
❑ If your computer still does not turn off, press and hold the power button
until the computer turns off.
❑ Remove the AC adapter and battery pack.
❑ Try reinstalling the software.
❑ Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical
support.
next to the Shut down button and Shut Down.
What should I do if the battery indicator is flashing
and my computer does not start?
❑ This issue could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly.
To resolve this issue, turn off your computer and remove the battery
pack. Then install the battery pack to the computer again. For details, see
the on-screen User Guide.
❑ If the issue persists after performing the above, it means the installed
battery pack is not compatible. Remove the battery pack and contact
VAIO - Link .
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Troubleshooting
What should I do if a message window, notifying of
incompatibility or improper installation of the battery
pack, appears and my computer enters Hibernate
mode?
❑ This issue could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly.
To resolve this issue, turn off your computer and remove the battery
pack. Then install the battery pack to the computer again. For details, see
the on-screen User Guide.
❑ If the issue persists after performing the above, it means the installed
battery pack is not compatible. Remove the battery pack and contact
VAIO- Link .
What should I do if Windows does not start, showing
a message, when I start my computer?
On all models except VGC-LM series, VGC-LT series, and
VGX-TP series models
If you enter a wrong power-on password three times consecutively, the Enter
Onetime Password message appears. If you enter a wrong power-on
password three times consecutively again, the System Disabled message
appears and Windows will not start. Press and hold the power button for
more than four seconds to check that the power indicator goes off. Wait for
10 or 15 seconds, then restart your computer and enter the correct
password. When entering the password, check that the Num lock indicator
and Caps lock indicator are off. If any are lit, press the Num Lk key or the
Caps Lock key to turn off the indicator before entering the password.
On VGC-LM series and VGC-LT series models
If you enter a wrong power-on password three times consecutively, the Enter
Onetime Password message appears and Windows will not start. Press and
hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power
indicator goes off. Wait for 10 or 15 seconds, then restart your computer and
enter the correct password. When entering the password, check that the
Num lock indicator and Caps lock indicator on the wireless keyboard are off.
If any are lit, press the Num Lk key or the Caps Lock key to turn off the
indicator before entering the password.
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On VGX-TP series models
❑ Make sure your computer does not have a "non-bootable" disc in the
optical disc drive.
❑ If a non-bootable disc is in the drive, follow these steps:
1 Remove the disc.
2 Restart your computer and confirm that the Windows operating
system launches properly.
❑ If you enter a wrong power-on password three times consecutively, the
Enter Onetime Password message appears and Windows will not start.
Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that
the VAIO power indicator goes off. Wait for 10 or 15 seconds, then restart
your computer and enter the correct password. When entering the
password, check that the Num lock indicator and Caps lock indicator on
the wireless keyboard are off. If any are lit, press the Num Lock key or
the Caps Lock key to turn off the indicator before entering the password.
What should I do if I cannot remember the BIOS
password?
If you have forgotten the BIOS password, contact VAIO-Link to reset it.
A reset fee will be charged.
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Troubleshooting
System Security
How can I protect my computer against security
threats, such as viruses?
The Microsoft Windows operating system is preinstalled on your computer.
The best way to protect your computer against security threats, such as
viruses, is to download and install the latest Windows updates regularly.
You can get important Windows updates by doing the following:
Your computer must be connected to the Internet before you can receive updates.
1 Connect to the Internet.
2 Double-click the Windows Security Alerts icon on the taskbar.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions to set up automatic or scheduled
updates.
How do I keep my antivirus software updated?
You can keep the Norton Internet Security software program current with
the latest updates from Symantec Corporation.
To download and install the latest security update
1 Click Start, All Programs, Norton 360, and Norton 360.
The Norton 360 main window appears.
2 Click the Tasks and Settings option.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions to select and download updates.
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Recovering your VAIO system
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Before using your computer
This booklet explains how to resolve problems, make a backup copy of your
data, and recover your Sony VAIO
VAIO software applications and Windows features in case of computer
malfunctions.
❑ VAIO Recovery Center
VAIO Recovery Center contains the following VAIO software
applications, tools, and Windows features:
❑ Rescue Data
The Rescue Data software enables you to make a backup copy of
your data stored on your hard disk.
❑ Wipe and Erase Data
The Wipe and Erase Data software enables you to erase all the data
on your hard disk.
❑ VAIO Hardware Diagnostics
The VAIO Hardware Diagnostics software enables you to check
your computer hardware (a CPU, memory module, hard disk, etc.).
❑ Reinstall Programs or Drivers
The Reinstall Programs or Drivers program enables you to restore
the preinstalled software or software drivers to the original factory
condition.
❑ Restore C: Drive
The Restore C: Drive program enables you to restore the C drive on
your computer to the original factory condition.
❑ Restore Complete System
The Restore Complete System program enables you to restore
your entire computer system to the original factory condition.
❑ Create Recovery Discs
The Create Recovery Discs program enables you to create your
own recovery discs to recover your computer system.
❑ Backup and Restore Center
Backup and Restore Center is the Windows backup feature that
enables you to use the backup related capabilities.
❑ VAIO Data Restore Tool
The VAIO Data Restore Tool software enables you to restore the
backup copies made with the Rescue Data software.
®
computer system with the following
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Before using your computer
In case of virus attacks, computer malfunctions, or accidental erasure,
prepare the following in advance:
1 Recovery discs
It is strongly recommended to create recovery discs immediately after
your computer is ready for use because there are no recovery discs
provided with the computer. For instructions on how to create the
recovery discs, see “Creating your own recovery discs” on page 18.
2 Backup copy of your data
Recovering your computer system will delete all the data previously
stored on a hard disk. Be sure to make a backup copy of your data
before recovering the computer system. For instructions on how to
make a backup copy of the data, see “Backing up and restoring your
data using Backup and Restore Center” on page 20.
Important information
If you perform a recovery of your system after having upgraded to a higher
version of Windows Vista via Windows Anytime Upgrade, the original
operating system will be running again on your computer. If you want to
reinstall the operating system installed with Windows Anytime Upgrade,
you can order a Windows Anytime Upgrade disc
https://vaio.windowsanytimeupgrade-emea.com/WAU/Home.aspx.
* Shipping costs will be charged.
*
at the following webshop:
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Creating your own recovery discs
Recovery discs enable you to recover your computer system to its original
state. You can create the recovery discs with VAIO Recovery Center.
Recover the computer system in the following cases:
❑ Your computer has been infected with a computer virus.
❑ Your computer has been unstable.
❑ Your computer system is experiencing problems which cannot be solved
through troubleshooting.
❑ You have formatted the C drive on your computer by mistake.
Depending on your computer state, you may need recovery discs to recover
your computer system.
You may not be able to recover your computer system from the recovery partition in the
following cases due to modifications of the recovery partition.
❑ You have used software to modify the recovery partition.
❑ You have installed an operating system different from the preinstalled operating
system on your computer.
❑ You have formatted your hard disk without using VAIO Recovery Center.
In these cases, recover your computer system with the recovery discs. If you have not yet
created them, you need to purchase them or repair the computer at your expense.
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Before using your computer
To create recovery discs
When your computer is ready for use, follow these steps to create recovery
discs.
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Click Create Recovery Discs and Start.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.
You can confirm the number of necessary discs and types of media you can use for
recovery disc creation in the Choose your media window.
If there is not enough free space on the hard disk drive, you cannot create recovery discs.
Note that you cannot use Blu-ray Disc™ media, DVD-RAM, CD-R, or CD-RW discs as
recovery discs. To find which types of media your optical disc drive supports, see the
on-screen User Guide.
Do not press the drive eject button while creating a recovery disc, as doing so may result
in a failure of the process.
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Backing up and restoring your data using
Backup and Restore Center
You can make a backup copy of your data, restore the data, and create a
restore point using Backup and Restore Center.
To back up your data
Making a backup copy of your data is extremely important. If you do not make
the backup copy, you will lose various data stored on your hard disk, such as
documents or pictures, due to unexpected events or computer viruses. It is
strongly recommended to make the backup copy on a daily basis.
There are three options to make a backup copy of your data.
❑ Use the Back Up Files wizard.
You can make a backup copy of your data to a CD, DVD or removal
media, such as an external hard disk. For instructions on how to use the
Back Up Files wizard, see
Back Up Files wizard” on page 21.
❑ Use the Windows Complete PC Backup and Restore feature
(available on models with Windows Vista Ultimate or
Windows Vista Business only).
You can make a backup copy of everything on your computer including
the programs, system settings, and files on the computer. You can
restore your computer system to the state when you made the backup
copy. For instructions on how to use the Windows Complete PC
Backup and Restore, see
Windows Complete PC Backup and Restore feature” on page 23.
❑ Create a restore point.
Your computer may become unstable or slow after installing new
software or changing the Windows settings. In such cases, you can use
a restore point to restore your computer system to a previous state. For
instructions on how to create a restore point, see
point” on page 25.
“To make a backup copy of your file with the
“To make a backup copy of your file with the
“To create a restore
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If an optical disc drive is not installed on your computer, you need an external hard disk
drive or optical disc drive to make a backup copy of your data or need to create a new
partition by changing the size of the C drive. For instructions on how to create a hard disk
partition, see
“Creating a hard disk partition” on page 40.
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Before using your computer
Be sure to create recovery discs immediately after your computer is ready for use. In case
you cannot make a backup copy of your data due to computer malfunctions, you can use
the recovery discs to make the backup copy. For instructions on how to create the recovery
discs, see “To create recovery discs” on page 19.
On models with an analog TV tuner, you may not back up the Recorded TV folder where the
video contents recorded by Windows Media Center are saved, using Backup and Restore
Center. Back up the Recorded TV folder separately.
If you have changed the destination drive, back up the Recorded TV folder directly under
the destination drive you have selected.
See the online specifications to see whether your model is equipped with an analog TV
tuner.
You can also make a backup copy of your data with the Rescue Data software. For
instructions on how to make a backup copy of your data, see
Rescue Data” on page 28.
“To back up your data with
To make a backup copy of your file with the Back Up Files
wizard
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Windows Backup and Restore and click Start.
4 Click Back up files.
The User Account Control window appears.
5 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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To restore your data from the backup copy made with the
Back Up Files wizard
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Windows Backup and Restore and click Start.
4 Click Restore files.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
On models with an analog TV tuner, restore the backup data of the Recorded TV folder
where the video contents recorded by Windows Media Center are saved to C:\Users\Public
manually. See the online specifications to see whether your model is equipped with an
analog TV tuner.
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Before using your computer
To make a backup copy of your file with the
Windows Complete PC Backup and Restore feature
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Windows Backup and Restore and click Start.
4 Click Back up computer.
The User Account Control window appears.
5 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
You cannot select which files to restore when restoring the files from the backup copy you
made with the Windows Complete PC Backup and Restore feature.
The files which you have changed or created after the backup cannot be restored.
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To restore your data from the backup copy made with the
Windows Complete PC Backup and Restore feature
Your computer may not work properly after the restore process be cause restoring your data
changes system files. Be sure to make a backup copy of your data before restoring the data.
1 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your
computer, and turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
You can also display the System Recovery Options window without using recovery discs.
To display the window, follow these steps:
1 Turn on your computer.
2 Press the F8 key when the VAIO logo appears.
3 Make sure the option to restore the computer, which is listed on the top of the boot
option window, is selected, then press the Enter key.
4 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
5 Select a user name and enter the password.
Skip the following steps 2 to 3.
2 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
3 Select an operating system and click Next.
4 If you have saved a backup copy of your data to an external hard disk
drive or discs with an external optical disk drive, connect the external
device to your computer.
5 Select Windows Complete PC Restore.
The Windows Complete PC Restore window appears.
If you have saved the backup copy to CD or DVD discs, insert a disc to
the (external) optical disk drive.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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On models with an analog TV tuner, restore the backup data of the Recorded TV folder
where the video contents recorded by Windows Media Center are saved to C:\Users\Public
manually. See the online specifications to see whether your model is equipped with an
analog TV tuner.
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Before using your computer
To create a restore point
What is a restore point?
A restore point is created automatically, for example when installing a
software driver, and used to restore your computer system files to a previous
state. Even though the restore point is created automatically, it is
recommended to create the restore point manually before installing software
or a software driver on your computer because your computer may become
unstable or slow after installing new software or changing the Windows
settings. If you have created the restore point when the computer is working
normally, use the restore point to restore the system files to the previous
state.
To create a restore point manually
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Windows Backup and Restore and click Start.
4 Click Create a restore point or change settings on the left pane.
The User Account Control window appears.
5 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The System Properties window appears.
6 Click the System Protection tab.
7 Click to select the check box next to the drive for which you want to create
a restore point under Automatic restore points.
8 Click Create.
9 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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To use the restore point for restoring system files
If you can start Windows, follow these steps:
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Windows Backup and Restore and click Start.
4 Click Create a restore point or change settings on the left pane.
The User Account Control window appears.
5 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The System Properties window appears.
6 Click System Restore on the System Protection tab.
7 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Before using your computer
If you cannot start Windows, follow these steps:
1 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your
computer, and turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
You can also display the System Recovery Options window without using recovery discs.
To display the window, follow these steps:
1 Turn on your computer.
2 Press the F8 key when the VAIO logo appears.
3 Make sure the option to restore the computer, which is listed on the top of the boot
option window, is selected, then press the Enter key.
4 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
5 Select a user name and enter the password.
Skip the following steps 2 to 3.
2 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
3 Select an operating system and click Next.
4 Select System Restore.
5 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Backing up and restoring your data with the
VAIO software
You can also make a backup copy of your data with the Rescue Data
software and restore the rescued data with the VAIO Data Restore Tool
software.
To back up your data with Rescue Data
The Rescue Data software enables you to rescue (back up) your data on the
hard disk even when you cannot start Windows.
There are two options to rescue your files.
❑ Normal data rescue
Saves all the files which you can rescue on the hard disk to an external
hard disk drive.
❑ Custom data rescue
Saves files which you specified to an external hard disk drive, removal
media, or an optical disc (CD, DVD, etc.).
Notes on using Rescue Data
❑ Handle rescued files with care to protect from unauthorized access.
❑ Keep recovery discs in a secure place to protect from unauthorized
copying of your data on the hard disk because the Rescue Data software
can be launched from the recovery discs.
❑ Rescued files which are not encrypted on the hard disk can be easily
accessed by unauthorized users using recovery discs.
To protect rescued files from unauthorized access, set the power-on or
hard disk password or use the Windows hard disk drive encryption
feature.
❑ Using the Rescue Data software does not guarantee to make backup
copies of all data on your hard disk. Sony assumes no liabilities for any
loss of your data arising out of the backup process.
❑ Disable the Windows hard disk drive encryption feature before using the
Rescue Data software.
❑ Be sure to use the AC adapter to power your computer when using the
Rescue Data software.
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Before using your computer
To start the rescue process
1 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your
computer, and turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
If you have not yet created recovery discs, follow these steps:
1 Turn on your computer.
2 Press the F10 key when the VAIO logo appears.
If the Edit Boot Options window is displayed, press the Enter key.
3 Skip the following steps 2 to 4.
2 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
3 Select an operating system and click Next.
4 Select VAIO Recovery Center.
5 Select Rescue Data and Start.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
It is recommended to select an external hard disk drive as a location to save rescued files
if you select Custom data rescue.
You may not be able to select a Blu-ray Disc media as a location to save rescued files
depending on your computer. To find which types of media your optical disc drive supports,
see the on-screen User Guide.
The backup process automatically stops and your computer restarts if the process has not
completed within 64 hours. To resume the process, follow the steps 1 to 5, click to select
the Resume canceled process check box, and Next.
Do not disconnect an external hard disk drive or optical disc drive during the rescue
process.
You may need to install a software driver if you select removal media, such as a Memory
Stick media, an SD memory card, or a USB flash drive, as a location to save rescued files.
The software driver is saved in the VAIO folder on each recovery disc. To install the software
driver, click Install Driver in the window to select a location to save rescued data.
Rescued files may be divided into two or more files and saved on a location to save the
rescued files or renamed depending on the location you selected. Use the VAIO Data
Restore Tool software to restore the rescued files.
You cannot use a DVD-R DL disc as a location to save rescued files. To find which types of
media your optical disc drive supports, see the on-screen User Guide.
Use an external hard disk drive or optical disc drive that supports the i.LINK or USB
connections to save rescued files.
You need to install a software driver if you use an external hard disk drive or optical disc
drive that does not support an i.LINK or a USB connection.
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To restore your data with VAIO Data Restore Tool
The VAIO Data Restore Tool software enables you to restore files which
have been rescued with the Rescue Data software.
To start the restore process
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Data Restore Tool, and
VAIO Data Restore Tool.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Data Restore Tool window appears.
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on the
VAIO Data Restore Tool software.
If necessary, move the restored files to an original location.
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Before using your computer
Restoring the preinstalled software or
software drivers
You can restore the preinstalled software or software drivers to the original
factory condition with the Reinstall Programs or Drivers program.
To use Reinstall Programs or Drivers
When the preinstalled software or software drivers do not work normally,
follow these steps to restore the preinstalled software or software drivers to
the original factory condition.
Before restoring, you must uninstall the preinstalled software or software drivers you are
going to restore. Click Start, Control Panel, and Uninstall a program under Programs, and
select the preinstalled software or software drivers to uninstall. If they are not uninstalled,
you may not complete the restoration process successfully.
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Reinstall Programs or Drivers and click Start.
4 Read the information about software or features to resolve the problems,
select Skip if you have already tried all of them, and click Next.
5 Click Next.
6 Select the desired software or software driver check box and click Next.
7 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Finding out what to do in case of
computer malfunctions
This section describes how to get your computer back to normal before
recovering your computer system in case of computer malfunctions.
If your computer does not work properly
Your computer may become unstable or slow in the following cases:
❑ Your computer has been infected with a computer virus.
❑ You have changed the Windows settings.
❑ You have installed software or a software driver which is not compatible
with your computer.
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Finding out what to do in case of computer malfunctions
If Windows starts
Follow these steps to get your computer back to normal:
1
Create your recovery discs if you have not yet created them (see page 18).
2 Make backup copies of your valuable files (see page 20).
3 Try any of the following:
❑ Restore system files from the latest restore point when your
computer was working normally (see page 26).
❑ Uninstall software or software drivers which are not compatible with
your computer if you have installed such software or software
drivers, or restore the preinstalled software or software drivers to
the originally factory condition (see page 31).
❑ Restore your data from the backup copy made with the Windows
Complete PC Backup and Restore feature (available on models
with Windows Vista Ultimate or Windows Vista Business only)
(see page 24).
You cannot restore your files which you have changed or created
after the backup.
4 If your computer still does not work properly, recover the computer
system (see page 35).
Recovering your computer system will delete all the data previously stored on the hard disk.
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If Windows does not start
Follow these steps to get your computer back to normal when you cannot
start Windows:
1 Try any of the following:
❑ Restore system files from the latest restore point when your
computer was working normally (see page 26).
❑ Restore your data from the backup copy made with the Windows
Complete PC Backup and Restore feature (available on models
with Windows Vista Ultimate or Windows Vista Business only)
(see page 24).
You cannot restore your files which you have changed or created
after the backup. If you have such files and want to restore them,
make backup copies of them with the Rescue Data software. For
instructions on how to use the Rescue Data software, see “To back
up your data with Rescue Data” on page 28.
2 Make backup copies of your files with the Rescue Data software if you
have not yet made them (see page 28).
3 Examine your computer hardware (a CPU, memory module, hard disk,
etc.) with the VAIO Hardware Diagnostics software.
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on the
VAIO Hardware Diagnostics software.
4 If you still cannot start Windows, recover your computer system
(see page 35).
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Recovering your VAIO system
Recovering your VAIO system
This section describes how to recover your computer system.
Before starting the recovery process
What is a system recovery?
A system recovery is to restore your computer to its factory state. Perform a
system recovery in the following cases:
❑ Your computer has been infected with a computer virus.
❑ Your computer has been unstable.
❑ Your computer system is experiencing problems which cannot be solved
through troubleshooting.
You can recover your computer system from the hard disk drive (recovery
partition) or recovery discs. You can also create your own recovery discs.
What is a recovery partition?
A recovery partition contains data for a system recovery and an application
recovery on the hard disk. Normally, you cannot modify or delete the data on
this partition. You can, however, modify or delete the data with commercially
available software applications designed to modify partition information. The
data modification or deletion may disable a system recovery.
Recovering your computer system can restore the preinstalled software only (except
certain software). It cannot restore software applications that were installed on your own
or the data you created after purchase.
Recovering your computer system cannot restore only the Windows operating system.
Certain preinstalled software applications include options to uninstall or install them. Note
that the software applications installed or uninstalled by using such options may not work
properly on your computer.
Installing a software application to modify partition sizes may disable a system recovery or
recovery disc creation. Be sure to create recovery discs immediately after the computer is
ready for use. See
Note that recovering your computer system will delete all the data on the hard disk even if
the hard disk is encrypted with the Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption (BitLocker)
feature.
It may take several hours to complete the recovery process.
“Creating your own recovery discs” on page 18.
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Before starting the recovery process
❑ Recovering your computer system will delete all the data on the hard
disk. Make sure you have the backup copy of your valuable data.
❑ On models with a fingerprint sensor, recovering your computer system
will delete all the fingerprint templates on the hard disk. See the online
specifications to see whether your model is equipped with a fingerprint
sensor.
❑ Disconnect all peripherals from the computer except the AC adapter or
power cord before recovering your computer system.
❑ Recovering your computer system restores all the settings to the factory
default settings.
❑ Make sure that you perform both a system recovery and an application
recovery. Your computer may become unstable without performing the
application recovery.
❑ If you have set the password to protect your data, you cannot start the
recovery process without entering the password. Be sure to write down
the password not to forget the password.
If you have forgotten the password, contact VAIO-Link to reset it. A reset
fee will be charged.
Aborting the system recovery process
Before the actual recovery process starts, VAIO Recovery Center makes it
easy to cancel any settings you may have made. Most screens remind you
about the loss of data that will occur and you can either go back to the
previous screen (click Back), or abort the recovery setup altogether. To
abort, remove the recovery disc (if applicable), press Cancel, and click Yes
to confirm. The system reboots automatically.
However, once the recovery process has started, canceling the job will delete
all the current data on your drive.
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When using recovery discs: if you do not remove the disc before rebooting, the system
recovery will start again.
There are two options to recover your computer system:
❑ Recover your computer system from Windows (see page 37).
❑ Recover your computer system without starting Windows (see page 39).
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Recovering your VAIO system
Recovering your VAIO system when you can
start Windows
You can recover your computer system from the hard disk if you can start
Windows. There are two options to recover the computer system: to restore
the C drive or to restore your entire computer system. If you cannot start
Windows, see “Recovering your VAIO system when you cannot start
Windows” on page 39.
To restore the C drive
Follow these steps to restore the C drive to the original factory condition:
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Restore C: Drive and click Start.
4 Read the information about software or features to resolve the problems,
select Skip if you have already tried all of them, and click Next.
5 Read the warnings thoroughly, select the I understand check box, and
click Start.
If you have changed partition sizes and created another partition other than the C drive on
your hard disk, the data on the partition will remain unchanged even after recovering your
computer system. For instructions on how to create a hard disk partition, see “Creating a
hard disk partition” on page 40.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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To restore your entire computer system
Follow these steps to restore the entire data on your hard disk to the original
factory condition:
1 Click Start, All Programs, VAIO Recovery Center, and
VAIO Recovery Center.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
The VAIO Recovery Center window appears.
3 Select Restore Complete System and click Start.
4 Read the information about software or features to resolve the problems,
select Skip if you have already tried all of them, and click Next.
5 If you have not yet created the recovery discs, select Create Recovery
Discs, click Next, and follow the on-screen instructions.
If you have created the recovery discs, select Skip, click Next, and follow
the on-screen instructions.
After completing the recovery process, restore your data from the backup
copy you have made. To restore the data from the backup copy, see
“Backing up and restoring your data using Backup and Restore Center” on
page 20.
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Recovering your VAIO system
Recovering your VAIO system when you
cannot start Windows
If you cannot start Windows, follow these steps to recover your computer
system:
1 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your
computer, and turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
If you have not yet created recovery discs, follow these steps:
1 Turn on your computer.
2 Press the F10 key when the VAIO logo appears.
If the Edit Boot Options window is displayed, press the Enter key.
3 Skip the following steps 2 to 4.
2 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
3 Select an operating system and click Next.
4 Select VAIO Recovery Center.
5 Follow the steps after step 2 in “To restore the C drive” on page 37 or “To
restore your entire computer system” on page 38, depending on your
computer state.
After completing the recovery process, restore your data from the backup
copy made with the Rescue Data software. To restore the data from the
backup copy, see “Backing up and restoring your data with the VAIO
software” on page 28.
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Changing the partition sizes
This section describes how to change the partition sizes.
About hard disk partitioning
Hard disk partitioning is to divide a hard disk into multiple partitions. It allows
you to organize your data or software on each hard disk partition more
effectively.
The computer has a partition (C drive) only with the default settings. You can
repartition the hard disk into two partitions: C drive and D drive, and use the
D drive as a location to back up your data. You do not have to recover your
computer system but use the Windows feature to repartition the hard disk.
For information on how to create a partition, see “Creating a hard disk
partition” described below.
You can also change the partition sizes using recovery discs.
Creating a hard disk partition
The steps described here take as an example the hard disk partitioning to
change the size of the C drive and create another partition.
There are two options to create a partition:
❑ Create a partition using the Windows feature.
❑ Create a partition using recovery discs.
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If you reduce the volume of the C drive partition, you may not create recovery discs or
complete the recovery process successfully because the free space on the hard disk drive
is not enough.
You need to recover your computer system if you create a partition with recovery discs.
Recovering your computer system will delete all the data previously stored on a hard disk.
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Changing the partition sizes
To create a partition with the Windows feature
1 Click Start, Control Panel, System and Maintenance, and
Create and format hard disk partitions under Administrative Tools.
The User Account Control window appears.
2 Click Continue.
If you are currently logged onto your computer as a standard user, enter
an administrator name and password and click Continue.
3 Right-click the C drive and select Shrink Volume.
The Shrink C: window appears.
4 Specify the amount of space to shrink and click Shrink.
While you use your computer for a certain period of time, the unallocated hard disk space
is getting smaller. In this case, it is recommended to defragment the hard disk. To
defragment the hard disk, click Start, All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, and
Disk Defragmenter.
5 Right-click Unallocated and select New Simple Volume.
The New Simple Volume Wizard window appears.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.
To create a partition with recovery discs
1 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your
computer, and turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
2 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
3 Select an operating system and click Next.
4 Select VAIO Recovery Center.
5 Click Restore Complete System and Start.
6 Select Skip and click Next.
Follow the on-screen instructions until the window to divide your hard
disk is displayed.
7 Select Customized drive size from the Divide your hard disk’s
storage space into C and D drives drop-down list.
8 Enter the desired C drive size and click Next.
9 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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Erasing everything on your hard disk
This section describes how to erase your data on your hard disk. It is strongly
recommended to erase all the data on your hard disk before you dispose of
your computer or give it to others.
Erasing all of your data on your hard disk with
Wipe and Erase Data
The Wipe and Erase Data software enables you to wipe out your data on
your hard disk. The erased data cannot be restored.
You need recovery discs to use the Wipe and Erase Data software. Create the recovery
discs if you have not yet created. For instructions on how to create the recovery discs, see
“To create recovery discs” on page 19.
The erasing process automatically stops and your computer restarts if the process has not
completed within 71 hours. The process will resume after the computer restarts.
Be sure to connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer when using the
Wipe and Erase Data software.
1 Make backup copies of your valuable files.
Make a backup copy of your data using the Back Up Files wizard if you can start Windows.
Make a backup copy of your data with the Rescue Data software if you cannot start
Windows. You can launch the Rescue Data software with recovery discs.
2 Insert a recovery disc to the drive while the computer is on, turn off your
computer, and turn on the computer again.
The System Recovery Options window appears.
3 Select a keyboard layout and click Next.
4 Select an operating system and click Next.
5 Select VAIO Recovery Center.
6 Select Wipe and Erase Data and click Start.
7 Follow the on-screen instructions.
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