Sony VGN-U750P User Guide

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Notice

readable form without prior written approval. Sony Corporation provides no warranty with regard to this manual, the software, or other information contained herein and hereby

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

In the manual, the ™ or ® marks are not specified. Sony Corporation reserves the right to make any modification to this manual or the information contained herein at any time without

notice. The software described herein is governed by the terms of a separate user licence agreement.

Please note that the illustrations in this manual may not necessarily apply to your model. Please see the Specifications sheet for the specific configuration of your VAIO computer.

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ENERGY STAR

As an ENERGY STAR Partner, Sony has determined that this product meets the ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency. The International E

of computers and their office equipment. The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that effectively reduce energy consumption. It is an open system in which business proprietors can participate voluntarily. The targeted products are office equipment such as computers, displays, printers, facsimiles and copiers. Their standards and logos are uniform among participating nations.

NERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.

NERGY STAR Office Equipment Program is an international program that promotes energy saving through the use

Owner's record

The serial number and model number are located on the bottom of your Sony computer. Record the numbers and refer to them if you need to contact VAIO customer support.

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Safety Information

General

❑ Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could lead to damages that are not covered by the guarantee. ❑ To avoid electrical shock, do not open the cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel only. ❑ Audio and picture distortion may occur if this equipment is positioned in close proximity to any equipment emitting electromagnetic

radiation.

❑ To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose your Sony Personal Computer to rain or moisture. ❑ When transporting the unit, prevent foreign objects from causing a malfunction by using the battery pack, the connector covers

and the supplied slot protectors if there is any.

❑ Unplug all connected cables including the telephone cord and the power cord when you hear thunder. ❑ Only connect 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and 1000BASE-T cables to the computer network jack. Do not connect any other type of

network cable or any telephone line. The computer network jack cannot be connected to a telephone line, a coin-operated telephone, a digital private branch exchange (PBX), or multiple phone lines. These connections may result in an electric current overload and could cause a malfunction, excessive heat, or fire in the connector. For the settings and devices needed to connect to the network, please ask your network administrator.

❑ The socket-outlet shall be installed near the equipment and shall be easily accessible. ❑ Do not block air intake vents and air exhaust vents. Also, do not place your computer on a bed, sofa, or rug. ❑ This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC regulation for using connection cables shorter

than 3 meters.

❑ To change the backup battery, please contact your nearest Sony Service Centre. ❑ Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals.

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❑ Connect the power cord only after connecting all cables. ❑ Turn on the computer only after turning off all peripherals. ❑ Do not move your computer while the system is in Standby mode. ❑ The magnetic properties of some objects can have serious consequences for your hard disk drive. They can erase the data on

the hard disk drive and cause the computer to malfunction. Do not place your computer near or on any objects which emit magnetic fields, mainly:

❑ TV sets ❑ Speakers ❑ Magnets and magnetic bracelets

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Regulatory information

Danger - Visible and invisible laser radiation when open. Avoid direct exposure to beam.

The portable optical drive that came with your computer is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT and complies with the Laser Products Safety Standard EN 60825-1. Repair and maintenance only by authorized Sony technicians. Improper use and repairs can create a safety hazard.

In case your model is equipped with Wireless LAN, please read the following: ❑ If radio interference with other devices occurs while using your computer, do not use the Wireless LAN functionality. Use of the

Wireless LAN functionality may cause a malfunction of the devices, resulting in an accident.

❑ Do not use the Wireless LAN functionality in any medical institutions, including hospitals, or while you are close to any electric

medical equipment. Radio waves may cause a malfunction of such equipment, resulting in a serious accident.

❑ Do not use the Wireless LAN functionality in an aircraft. Radio waves may cause a malfunction of the aircraft's equipment, resulting

in a serious accident.

❑ Do not use the Wireless LAN functionality in a crowded place, such as in a crowded train car. Radio waves may cause a

malfunction of pacemakers implanted in other people's bodies. ❑ If you urgently need to disable the Wireless LAN functionality, turn off the Wireless LAN switch.

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Disposing of lithium ion batteries

For additional information, refer to the Safety Information booklet.

❑ Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries. Dispose of promptly and properly at end-of-life. ❑ Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the

manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.

❑ The battery pack used in this device may present a fire or chemical burn hazard if mistreated. Do not disassemble, heat above

140°F (60°C) or incinerate.

❑ Dispose of used batteries promptly and properly. ❑ Keep away from children. ❑ In some areas the disposal of lithium ion batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.

❑ Use the public collection system.

Disposing of internal memory backup battery

❑ Your computer is equipped with an internal memory backup battery that should not have to be replaced during the lifetime of the

product. For changing this battery, please contact VAIO customer support.

❑ Danger of explosion if the battery is incorrectly replaced. ❑ Dispose of properly at end-of-life. ❑ In some areas the disposal of lithium ion and other non-hazardous batteries in household or business waste may be prohibited.

❑ Please use the public collection system.

Welcome

Congratulations on purchasing a Sony VAIO computer. Sony has combined leading-edge technology in audio, video, computing and communications to provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.

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View the Electronic Flyer, which provides updates and supplemental information about your computer.

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Go to the Sony Computing Support web site to view the specifications, which list your computer’s hardware specifications and preinstalled software information.

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For Sony software information, click Start and select Welcome to VAIO life.

Here are the main features you can enjoy:

❑ Exceptional performance. ❑ Portability – The rechargeable battery pack provides hours of use without AC power. ❑ Sony audio and video quality – A high-resolution LCD screen enables you to take advantage of today's advanced multimedia

applications, games, and entertainment software.

❑ Multimedia features – Enjoy audio and video CDs/DVDs. ❑ Interconnectivity – Your computer has Ethernet, Hi-Speed USB (USB2.0) (High-speed/Full-speed/Low-speed supported) and

i.LINK functionalities. i.LINK is a bidirectional digital interface for exchanging data. With the Memory Stick you can easily exchange and share digital data with compatible products.

Welcome

❑ Wireless technology – Thanks to the Wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11b/g) technology, you can communicate freely, without cables

or wires.

❑ Windows – Your system includes the Microsoft Windows XP Professional operating system with Service Pack 2. ❑ Communications – Access popular online services, send and receive e-mails, browse the Internet. ❑ Excellent customer support – If you are experiencing any problems with your computer, please check the VAIO online website

for a possible solution:

http://www.sony.com/pcsupport

Before contacting VAIO customer support, please try to solve any problems by reading this guide, the printed Welcome Mat, or the manuals and help files for the peripherals or software.

Documentation pack

Your Documentation Pack contains printed information and a user guide for information on setting up and using your computer.

Printed documentation

❑ A Welcome Mat, containing an overview of all connectors, set-up information, and selected features of your computer. ❑ A Safety Information booklet.

Non-printed documentation

Click Start, point to Help and Support, and then click User Guide or Hard Disk Recovery to view your desired on-line documentation.

Using your VAIO computer

Once you have read and followed the information in the printed Welcome Mat, you can start using your computer safely and confidently.

Read on to get the most out of using your VAIO computer.

❑ Connecting a power source ❑ Setting the password ❑ Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup ❑ Shutting down your computer safely ❑ Using the keyboard ❑ Using the touch panel ❑ Using the pointing device ❑ Using special buttons ❑ Using the port replicator ❑ Using a disc drive ❑ Using the stick remote commander and the ear set ❑ Using the display/LAN adapter ❑ Using Memory Stick media ❑ Using Compact Flash Cards ❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) ❑ Using power saving modes ❑ Managing power with VAIO Power Management

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, proceed as follows:

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 connector (4) on the computer.

The shape of the plug varies depending on the AC adapter.

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Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter.

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To disconnect your computer completely from mains voltage, unplug the AC adapter.

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Make sure that the socket outlet is easily accessible.

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If you do not use the AC adapter for a long period of time, put your computer into Hibernate mode. 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.

Attaching the battery pack

To attach the battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Slide the LOCK lever (1) on the top of your computer in the reverse direction of the arrow.

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2 Insert the tabs on the battery (2) diagonally into the notches on the computer.

3 Lower the other side of the battery towards the computer and push it in until it clicks into place.

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4 Slide the LOCK lever in the direction of the arrow to secure the battery on the computer.

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

For your safety, it is highly recommended that you use genuine Sony rechargeable battery packs and AC adapters that meet the quality assurance standard, supplied by Sony for your VAIO personal computer. Some VAIO personal computers may only function with a genuine Sony battery.

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Charging the battery pack

To charge the battery pack, proceed as follows:

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

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.

Single blink The battery is running out of power.

Double blink The battery is charging.

Off The computer is using AC power.

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

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Keep the battery pack attached to the computer while it is directly connected to AC power. The battery pack continues to charge while you are using the computer.

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If the battery level falls below 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and attach a fully charged battery.

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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.

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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 indicators start flashing.

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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.

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

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Removing the battery pack

To remove the battery pack, proceed as follows:

1 Turn off the computer. 2 Slide the LOCK lever on the top of your computer in the reverse direction of the arrow. 3 Slide and hold the release lever outwards. 4 Raise the battery diagonally to remove from the computer.

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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.

Troubleshooting power supply

My computer does not start or the power switch is disabled (The power indicator flashes quickly)

❑ The HOLD switch may be turned on. Slide the switch in the reverse direction of the arrow and bring your system back into normal

mode.

❑ The battery that is attached to your computer is not compatible. Remove the battery.

A message appears and my computer is in Hibernate mode

The battery that is attached to your computer is not compatible. Wait till your computer shuts down and then remove the battery.

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Setting the password

Use one of the BIOS functions to set the password. Once you have set the password, you will have to enter the password after the VAIO logo appears. In this way, you can protect your

computer from unauthorized access.

You cannot start your computer without entering the password. Make sure not to forget the password.

If you forget the password and need assistance to cancel it, a cancellation fee will be charged.

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Although you can use Software Keyboard or NextText, depending on your country or region, for character input, you may want to connect the supplied folding keyboard before setting the password.

Adding the password

To add the password, proceed as follows:

1 Turn on your computer. 2 Press F2 when the VAIO logo appears.

The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, press F2 several times.

3 Use or to select Security to display another screen, select Set Machine Password, and then press Enter. 4 On the password entry screen, enter the password twice and press Enter.

The password should be up to 7 alphanumeric characters long.

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The following information helps you configure your computer to prompt for a password entry when you turn on your computer or display the BIOS setup screen.

5 Select Password When Power ON under Security.

Press the space bar to change the setting from Disabled to Enabled.

6 Use or to select Exit and then Exit (Save Changes); and press Enter.

On the Setup Confirmation screen, confirm that Yes is selected and then press Enter.

Changing/removing the password

To change or remove the password, proceed as follows:

1 Turn on your computer. 2 Press F2 when the VAIO logo appears.

The BIOS setup screen appears. If not, press F2 several times.

3 Enter the current password for Enter Password:

4 Use or to select Security to display another screen, select Set Machine Password, and then press Enter. 5 On the password entry screen, enter the current password once and then a new password twice; and press Enter.

To remove the password, leave Enter New Password and Confirm New Password blank and press Enter.

6 Use or to select Exit and then Exit (Save Changes); and press Enter.

On the Setup Confirmation screen, confirm that Yes is selected and then press Enter.

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Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup

The Sony Notebook Setup utility allows you to consult system information and specify preferences for system behaviour.

To use Sony Notebook Setup, proceed as follows:

1 Click the Start button on the Windows taskbar. 2 In All Programs, select Sony Notebook Setup and then click Sony Notebook Setup.

The Sony Notebook Setup window appears.

Ta b D es cr i pt i on

About This Computer Displays system information, including memory capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.

Initial Setting You can specify the hard disk drive as well as other drives inserted into your computer to select the drive and device

Device You can perform a variety of tasks concerning devices, including hardware resources and the pointing device.

Bass boost You can turn on/off the Bass Boost function (only with ear set). You can also check the effect of the Bass Boost

Screen Resolution You can specify the screen resolution of the connected external display.

Buttons (Normal) You can change the actions linked to the buttons on your computer in Normal mode.

Buttons (Rotational) You can change the actions linked to the buttons on your computer in Rotational mode.

Buttons (External)

VAIO Design Setting You can specify window designs at individual screen resolutions. You can also specify launch of Software Keyboard

order you wish to use for loading the operating system. You can also change the volume of the sounds played while the operating system is loading.

function by selecting a sound file sample and playing it.

You can change the action linked to the S1 button and the (External Display) button on the port replicator connected to your computer.

or NextText LCD resolution.

at time of logging on for character input and a behaviour when the screen resolution is greater than the

1 Depending on the model of your computer. Available on selected models only.

3 Select the tab for the item you want to change. 4 Once finished, click OK.

The item has been changed.

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For more information about each option, click Help on the Sony Notebook Setup screen to display the help file.

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Some of the tabs will not be visible If you open Sony Notebook Setup as a limited user.

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Shutting down your computer safely

It is important that you shut down your computer properly so you do not lose unsaved data.

To shut down your computer, proceed as follows:

1 Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer. 2 Click the Start button. 3 Click Turn Off Computer.

The Turn off computer window appears. 4 Click Tur n Off. 5 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 turns off.

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See the printed Welcome Mat if you have problems shutting down your computer.

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Using the keyboard

The supplied folding keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer's keyboard, but has additional keys that perform specific tasks. For more information on the standard keys, please go to the Windows Help and Support Center.

Connecting/disconnecting the folding keyboard

The folding keyboard comes with your computer for typing convenience. You can connect the folding keyboard without turning off your computer.

Keep your finger away from the joint part of the folding keyboard when opening and folding the keyboard to prevent injury.

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The cap on the keyboard’s multi-pointer will wear out over time. When it wears out, replace it with one of the supplied spare caps.

To connect the folding keyboard, proceed as follows:

1 Slide the lock lever (1) on the folding keyboard to the UNLOCK position and open the keyboard.

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2 Connect the keyboard to one of the USB connectors on your computer or the port replicator.

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To prevent damage to your computer or the folding keyboard, while the keyboard is connected, do not:

- carry around your computer.

- put your computer into a bag or the protective pouch.

To disconnect the folding keyboard, proceed as follows:

1 Unplug the keyboard from the USB connector. 2 Fold the keyboard and slide the lock lever to the LOCK position.

Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key

Combinations/Feature Functions

Toggles on and off the built-in speaker and the ear set.

<Fn> + (F2): speaker switch

<Fn> + (F3/F4): speaker volume

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume and the ear set.

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To increase volume, press <Fn>+<F4> and then

To decrease volume, press <Fn>+<F3> and then

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Some functions are not available until Windows is launched.

or , or keep pressing <Fn>+<F4>.

or , or keep pressing <Fn>+<F3>.

Indicators

Indicator Functions

Power on: lights green.

Power

Battery

Wireless LAN Turns on when the Wireless LAN is activated. Turns off when the Wireless LAN is not activated.

Memory Stick Pro

Light On Off

Hard disk

Num Lock

Caps Lock

Scroll Lock

Data is read from or written to the hard disk drive. The hard disk drive is not being accessed.

Turns on when the number keys in the numeric keypad area are active.

Turns on when the letters appear in uppercase as you type. The <Shift> key lowers the case of typed characters when Caps Lock is on.

Turns on when the screen scrolls differently (Not all applications support this function).

Standby mode: flashes umber.

Indicates the status of the battery.

Turns on when the Memory Stick is in use. Turns off when the Memory Stick is no longer in use.

Turns off when the alphanumeric character keys in the keypad area are active.

Turns off when the letters appear in lowercase as you type (unless you hold down the <Shift> key).

Turns off when the information moves across the display normally.

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Troubleshooting the keyboard

A key top has fallen off

To replace a key top, proceed as follows:

1 Check if the inner lever (1) and the outer lever (2) are disengaged.

If the levers are correctly in place, proceed to step 5.

❑ Keys at the top row of the keyboard

❑ Backspace, Enter, left Shift, and Caps Lock keys

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❑ Any other keys

2 Attach the outer lever (1) to the hooks (2) on the key unit.

3 Insert the inner lever (1) underneath the outer lever and pull the inner lever in the direction of the arrow.

4 Push in the inner lever from above until it clicks into place. When you have replaced the key top, push it several times to make

sure that the key top is secured.

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5 If the space bar key falls off, remove the wire (1) from the key top, attach it to the hooks (2) on the key unit, align the centre of the

key top, and then press it from above until it clicks.

If any key top other than the space bar key falls off, place it back into position and push it in from above until it clicks.

Do not take off the key top intentionally, as it may cause a malfunction.

Do not push the key top excessively when you replace it, as it may cause a malfunction. Handle the key tops with care.

Troubleshooting sound

My speakers are not producing sound

❑ The built-in speakers may be turned off. Press <Fn>+<F2> to turn on the speakers.

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❑ The speaker volume may be turned to the minimum. Press <Fn>+<F4> and then or or keep pressing <Fn>+<F4> to

increase the volume.

❑ If you are using the supplied ear set, turn its volume control to increase the volume. ❑ If your computer is powered by battery, check that the battery is attached properly and that it is charged. ❑ If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check that the volume is turned up. ❑ Check the volume controls in Windows.

Using the touch panel

Your computer's LCD is also a touch panel that allows for various actions with the stylus (1), including character input and software launch.

Action Description

Tap Gently hit the stylus once against the touch panel.

Double-tap Gently hit the stylus twice against the touch panel.

Drag Slide the stylus gently on the touch panel.

Before using your computer in the palm of your hand, make sure to attach the supplied strap to your computer and put it on around the wrist of your other hand to prevent the computer from dropping off.

Always use the supplied stylus for touch panel operations to prevent damage to the touch panel surface.

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You can attach the stylus to the strap as illustrated below:

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When a rubber stopper is out of position on the strap, move it to its correct position before using the strap.

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Calibrating the touch panel

In order to use the stylus’s functions accurately, you must calibrate the touch panel.

To calibrate the touch panel, proceed as follows:

❑ Click Start, then All Programs, select Touch Panel, and click Calibration. ❑ Follow the on-screen directions.

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Using the stylus

You can use the ritePen® software program or the PenPlus for VAIO software program to make use of the LCD’s touch panel for character input and handwriting recognition.

To launch ritePen, proceed as follows:

❑ Click Start, then All Programs, select Parascript, then ritePen, and click ritePen. ❑ The program launches.

To launch PenPlus for VAIO, proceed as follows:

❑ Click Start, then All Programs, select PenPlus, and click PenPlus for VAIO. ❑ The program launches.

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Troubleshooting the touch panel

My screen does not display anything

❑ The HOLD switch may be turned on.

Slide the HOLD switch in the reverse direction of the arrow and bring your system back into normal mode. ❑ The output destination may be directed to the external display.

Press the (External display) button on the supplied display/LAN adapter or port replicator to switch the destination.

❑ In order to use the (External display) button on the supplied display/LAN adapter or port replicator, check the Sony

Notebook Setup setting.

1 Go to Start > All Programs > Sony Notebook Setup and click Sony Notebook Setup.

The Sony Notebook Setup window appears. 2 Click the Screen Resolution tab. 3 Check if the Display contents on the LCD together with the external display check box is selected.

If not, click to select the check box.

4 Click OK.

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Using the pointing device

Your computer and the supplied folding keyboard are equipped with a cursor-pointing device, your multi-pointer (1). You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the built-in multi-pointer.

Push the multi-pointer in the direction that you want to move the pointer on the screen. The harder you push the multi-pointer, the faster the pointer moves.

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On rare occasions, the pointer may move on its own. This is not a malfunction. Leave the multi-pointer untouched for a while. The pointer will come to a halt.

Action Description

Point Push the multi-pointer 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 Push the multi-pointer while pressing the left button.

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Action Description

Scroll Push the multi-pointer while pressing the centre button (5) (the scroll function is available only with applications that support a

scroll feature).

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Your computer is also equipped with the up (1), down (2), left (3), and right (4) cursor keys and the Enter key (5) for pointing operations. The cursor keys are equivalent to the arrow keys on the folding keyboard.

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Troubleshooting the pointing device on the computer

The multi-pointer is not working

❑ The multi-pointer is disabled. Use Sony Notebook Setup to enable the multi-pointer. ❑ The Press to Select function of the multi-pointer on your computer may be disabled. Proceed as follows to enable the function.

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.

The Control Panel window appears.

2 Click the Printers and Other Hardware icon. 3 Click the Mouse icon.

The Mouse Properties window appears. 4 Click the Device Settings tab. 5 Click Settings. 6 Click Press to Select on the left side. 7 Click to select the Enable Press-to-Select check box. 8 Click OK.

❑ Your computer's multi-pointer uses static electricity from a human body to locate a position. If static electricity is discharged from

a human body, the multi-pointer may be temporarily disabled. Press the STANDBY button on your computer to put the system into Standby mode and press it again to bring the system back into normal mode.

❑ The HOLD switch on your computer may be turned on.

When the HOLD switch is on, the multi-pointer is disabled. Slide the HOLD switch in the reverse direction of the arrow.

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The pointer does not move

Depending on the application in use, the pointer may temporarily freeze. Wait for a while and try again. If the pointer sill does not move, connect the supplied folding keyboard and proceed as follows to turn

off or restart your computer. 1 Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.

The Windows Task Manager window appears.

2 Press <Alt>+<U> simultaneously, use <R> or <r> to choose Turn o ff or Restart, and then press <Enter>. If this procedure does not work, slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow and hold it for at least four seconds.

My computer responds to click when I touch the multi-pointer

The Press to Select function of the multi-pointer on your computer is enabled. Proceed as follows to disable the function. 1 Click Start and then Control Panel.

The Control Panel window appears.

2 Click the Printers and Other Hardware icon. 3 Click the Mouse icon.

The Mouse Properties window appears.

4 Click the Device Settings tab. 5 Click Settings. 6 Click Press to Select on the left side. 7 Click to deselect the Enable Press-to-Select check box. 8 Click OK.

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Troubleshooting the pointing device on the folding keyboard

The cursor moves on its own during character input

The Press-to-Select function of the multi-pointer on the folding keyboard is enabled. Proceed as follows to disable the function. 1 Click Start and then Control Panel.

The Control Panel window appears.

2 Click the Printers and Other Hardware icon. 3 Click the Mouse icon.

The Mouse Properties window appears.

4 Click the External Multi pointer tab. 5 Click to deselect the Enable Press-to-Select check box under Press-to-Select. 6 Click OK.

The multi-pointer is not working

The Press-to-Select function of the multi-pointer on the folding keyboard may be disabled. Proceed as follows to enable the function.

1 Follow step 1 to step 6 above. 2 Click to select the Enable Press-to-Select check box under Press-to-Select. 3 Click OK.

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The pointer does not move

Depending on the application in use, the pointer may temporarily freeze. Wait for a while and try again. If the pointer sill does not move, proceed as follows to turn off or restart your computer. 1 Press <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously.

The Windows Task Manager window appears.

computer turns off.

The pointer moves on its own while I'm not touching the multi-pointer

Remove the folding keyboard and connect it back to your computer. It takes some time for your computer to detect the connected folding keyboard. Allow a few seconds before using the multi-pointer on the keyboard.

My computer responds to click when I touch the multi-pointer

The Press-to-Select function of the multi-pointer on the folding keyboard is enabled. Disable the function.

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Using special buttons

Your computer is provided with special buttons and a special switch to help you use the computer. Special buttons are also available on the supplied port replicator and the display/LAN adapter.

On the computer

❑ ROTATE button :

Rotates the screen view 90 degrees clockwise. To restore the original view, press the button once again.

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The ROTATE button only works when the LCD color setting is Medium (16 bit) or Highest (32 bit).

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To set the wallpaper for the rotated screen view, rotate the screen view first.

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Pressing the ROTATE button changes the resolution, thus may cause a defect to any running software that does not support change in resolution. Make sure to quit such software before pressing the ROTATE button.

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The ROTATE button may not work with some software, or may even cause such software to malfunction.

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The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is rotated because pressing the ROTATE button changes the resolution.

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❑ ZOOM button :

Changes the LCD resolution. When an external display is connected via the supplied display/LAN adapter or port replicator, you can also change the screen resolution of the external display.

Press the ZOOM button to display the resolution selection window and choose the resolution.

To choose one of the resolutions on the left (1), press the ZOOM button. Available resolutions for the LCD and external display are:

- VGA: 640 x 480 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

- SVGA: 800 x 600 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

- XGA: 1024 x 768 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

Available resolutions when screen view is rotated are:

- VGA: 480 x 640 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

- SVGA: 600 x 800 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

- XGA: 768 x 1024 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

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To choose one of the resolutions on the right (2), click on the desired resolution. You can also choose other resolutions by using the cursor keys.

Available resolutions for the LCD and external display are:

- SXGA: 1280 x 1024 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

- UXGA: 1600 x 1200 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

Available resolutions when screen view is rotated are:

- SXGA: 1024 x 1280 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

- UXGA: 1200 x 1600 pixels, Highest (32 bit)

When the screen resolution is greater than the LCD resolution, the VAIO Virtual Desktop appears to indicate the on-screen area of the desktop. Click on the VAIO Virtual Desktop to change the on-screen area.

On the VAIO Virtual Desktop, the following buttons are available:

Button Function

Allows normal mouse operations.

(Mouse mode)

Turns the pointer into a palm. You can drag the desktop to view your desired position. To return to Mouse mode, click the Mouse mode

(Move mode)

(Fit mode)

button or right-click on the desktop.

Downsizes the desktop to fit it into the LCD. Click your desired position on the desktop to display the desktop with the clicked position in the centre of the LCD at the original screen resolution.

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✍

Pressing the ZOOM button changes the resolution, thus may cause a defect to any running software that does not support a change in resolution. Make sure to quit such software before pressing the ZOOM button.

✍

The ZOOM button may not work with graphic images as it magnifies the screen view by changing the resolution.

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The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or the standard view is restored because pressing the ZOOM button changes the resolution.

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The magnified view is not as clear as the standard view due to compensation.

❑ STANDBY button :

Puts your system into Standby mode (see Using Standby mode). To bring your system back into normal mode, press the STANDBY button once again.

✍

When the supplied stick remote commander is connected to your computer, you can press the Jog lever to bring your system back into normal mode.

❑ Brightness button :

Changes the LCD brightness in three levels: Brightness (bright), Brightness (dark), and Backlight off.

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❑ Function selector button :

Launches VAIO Function Selector. Choose the desired function with the function selector button or one of the cursor keys and press Enter to change the settings.

Button Function

Toggles on and off the built-in speaker and the ear set.

(Muting)

Changes the built-in speaker volume and the ear set.

(Volume)

Changes the LCD brightness.

(Brightness)

Toggles between the LCD, external device (e.g. monitor) connected via the supplied display/LAN adapter or port replicator.

(External Display)

Turns the Bass Boost function on/off.

(Bass Boost)

❑ Software Keyboard (NextText) button :

Launches Software Keyboard or NextText, depending on your country or region.

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❑ HOLD switch :

Prevents accidental pressing of the buttons on your computer. Slide the HOLD switch in the direction of the arrow to activate HOLD mode. In HOLD mode, however, the following operations are available:

❑ Turning on and off the Wireless LAN functionality with the Wireless LAN switch ❑ Operations on the connected USB devices ❑ Operations on the supplied stick remote commander ❑ Button operations on the supplied port replicator

✍

Activating HOLD mode in the direction of the arrow puts system into power-saving mode to reduce power consumption. To bring your system back into normal mode, slide the HOLD switch in the reverse direction of the arrow and return to normal mode.

On the port replicator

❑ Download button:

The Download button, by default, launches the default browser software. You can also link another action that you execute often to this shortcut button. See Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup.

❑ (External Display) button:

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

On the display/LAN adapter

(External Display) button:

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

Troubleshooting special buttons

Pressing the ZOOM button does not change the screen resolution

❑ When the software that places high load to the CPU is running, pressing the ZOOM button may cause a malfunction. It is strongly

recommended that you should not use the ZOOM button while such software is running.

❑ The ZOOM button may not work with some software or even cause such software to malfunction. It is strongly recommended that

you should not use the ZOOM button while such software is running.

❑ The ZOOM button is disabled during video playback.

Pressing the ROTATE button does not rotate the screen view

❑ The ROTATE button only works when the LCD colour setting is Medium (16 bit) or Highest (32 bit). Check the setting for

appropriateness.

❑ The ROTATE button may not work with some software or even cause such software to malfunction. It is strongly recommended

that you should not use the ROTATE button while such software is running.

❑ The ROTATE button is disabled during video playback.

Pressing the ROTATE button displays the BIOS setup screen

If you press the ROTATE button while the VAIO logo is on screen, the BIOS setup screen will appear.

To exit the BIOS setup screen, proceed as follows:

1 Use one of the cursor keys to select Exit and then Exit (Discard Changes). 2 Press Enter to start Windows.

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Using the port replicator

Your computer comes with the port replicator. Attaching the port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer, such as an external display.

1 3 USB ports See

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device

2 i.LINK port See

Connecting an i.LINK device

3 VAIO peripheral DC out See

Connecting the disc drive

4 Monitor/VGA port See

Connecting a computer display

5 Network See

Connecting to a network (LAN)

6 DC In See

Connecting a power source

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1 Download button See On the

✍

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

port replicator

(External

Display) button

See On the port replicator

3 USB port See

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

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device

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Attaching your computer to the port replicator

When using the port replicator, make sure to insert the holder (1) into the port replicator until the lines (2) on the holder are levelled with the port replicator surface.

Before attaching your computer to the port replicator, make sure that the battery is attached and the computer is turned off.

Do not move your computer while attached to the port replicator, as it may detach from the port replicator and cause damage to the port replicator and the computer.

To attach your computer to the port replicator, proceed as follows:

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.

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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 Slide in the computer gently on the holder, fitting the guide rails (1) of the holder into the grooves (2) on the battery.

The Download and (External Display) buttons on the port replicator light green.

Do not attach your computer to the port replicator with excessive force, as it will cause a malfunction or result in damage.

✍

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

Disconnecting your computer from the port replicator

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

To disconnect your computer from the port replicator, proceed as follows:

1 Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals. 2 Pull out the computer from the port replicator.

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Using a disc drive

Your computer does not come with a portable disc drive, but you can purchase one separately. Connect the disc drive to your computer via the supplied port replicator and it is ready for CD/DVD operations. The necessary driver software is already installed.

✍

When you connect the disc drive for the first time, it may take some time before your system detects the disc drive.

Connecting the disc drive

To connect the disc drive, proceed as follows:

1 Connect the supplied port replicator to your computer. See Using the port replicator for more information.

2 Connect the L-shaped connector of the VAIO peripheral cable

turn the wheel on the connector to secure it on the disc drive.

(1) to the designated receptacle on the back of the disc drive and

1 Supplied with the optical disc drive.

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3 Connect the other end of the VAIO peripheral cable to the i.LINK (2) and VAIO DC OUT (3) connectors on the port replicator.

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Disconnecting the disc drive

To disconnect the disc drive, proceed as follows:

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the system tray.

The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears.

2 Select the hardware you want to unplug. 3 Click Stop. 4 In the Stop a Hardware Device dialog box, confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system. 5 Click OK.

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

6 Click OK. 7 Click Close. 8 Unplug the connector of the VAIO peripheral cable from the port replicator.

Make sure that the disc drive contains no disc before disconnecting the disc drive.

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Reading and writing CDs and DVDs

To achieve optimum performance when writing data onto a disc (also called "burning"), follow these recommendations: ❑ To make the data on a disc readable on an optical 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 disk drive. ❑ Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data to a disc. ❑ For optimal writing speed, deactivate the screensaver before writing data to a disc. ❑ Memory-resident disc utilities may cause unstable operation or data loss. Deactivate these utilities before writing data to a disc. ❑ 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 put your VAIO computer into a power saving mode 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.

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Playing DVDs

To achieve optimum performance when playing DVDs, you should follow these recommendations.

❑ You can play DVDs using an optical drive and the WinDVD software. ❑ Close all open applications before playing a DVD movie. ❑ Do not use resident disc utilities or resident utilities to speed up the access of discs, because they may cause the system to

become unstable.

❑ Make sure that the screensaver is deactivated. ❑ Region codes indicators are labelled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the disc.

Unless "all" (this means that you can play this DVD everywhere in the world) or the region code of your residence area, e.g. "1," is labelled on your DVD disc or on the packaging, you cannot play the disc on this player.

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

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Troubleshooting the optical disc drive

My disc drive tray does not open

❑ Make sure the computer is turned on, then press the eject button on the drive. ❑ Click Start, and select My Computer. Right-click the optical disc drive and select Eject. ❑ Make sure the computer is not in Standby or Hibernate mode. ❑ If this does not work, try the following:

When the computer is OFF, open the tray by inserting a sharp, pointed object (for example a paperclip) into the manual eject hole of the optical disc drive.

I cannot play a disc

❑ After inserting the disc, wait for a few seconds for the system to detect it before you try to access it. ❑ Make sure the label of the disc is facing up. ❑ If the disc requires software, make sure the software is installed according to the instructions of the program. ❑ Check the volume of your speakers. ❑ Clean the disc with an appropriate cleaner. ❑ Make sure your computer is running on AC power supply only and try the disc again. ❑ There may be condensation in the drive. Remove the disc and leave the drive open for approximately one hour. Remove the

battery while you wait for the condensation to disappear.

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I cannot play a DVD

❑ If a region code warning appears when you are using the DVD player, it could be that the DVD you are trying to play is incompatible

with the DVD drive on your computer. The region code is listed on the packaging of the disc.

❑ Change the resolution under Control Panel - Display to a lower resolution. ❑ If you see video but cannot hear sound, check all of the following:

❑ Make sure the mute setting is off on your DVD player. ❑ Check the Master Volume settings of the Sounds and Audio Device Properties. ❑ If you have connected speakers externally, check the volume settings of your computer speakers and check the connections

between your speakers and the computer.

❑ In the Device Manager, check that the correct drivers are installed properly. To display the Device Manager, click Start, then

Control Panel. Click Performance and Maintenance and then the System icon. On the Hardware tab, click the Device

Manager button.

❑ A dirty or damaged disc may cause the computer to "hang" while it tries to read the disc. If necessary, reboot the computer, remove

the disc and then check that it is not dirty or damaged.

❑ Check your PG settings (Parental Guidance) in the DVD software as they might be preventing you from playing certain DVDs when

they are activated.

I cannot play a DVD when using two screens

❑ You will not have a problem in the following situations:

❑ When you use a CRT or an LCD display on its own. ❑ When you play MPEG files which are recorded on the hard disk drive with Windows Media Player 9.

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I cannot play a DVD VIDEO

Check if the region code of your drive is appropriate.

To check the region code setting, proceed as follow:

1 Click Start and then My Computer. 2 Right-click the disc drive icon and click Properties in the menu. 3 Click the Hardware tab. 4 Select the DVD/CD-ROM drive from the All disk drives list and click Properties. 5 Click the DVD Region tab.

Check if the region code specified for Current Region is appropriate.

The reading speed of CD/DVD-RWs is very slow

Generally, the reading speed of a CD/DVD-RW is slower than that of a -ROM or -R. The reading speed can also vary depending on the type of format.

The disc tray does not eject even when the eject button is pressed

❑ Check that the computer is turned on. ❑ The CD-writing application software may be stopping the disc from being ejected. ❑ Make sure the computer is not in Standby or Hibernate mode.

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The disc tray ejects even when it has been locked into place

❑ Ensure that the disc is placed with the label side facing up. ❑ Clean the disc and the disc drive lens with an appropriate cleaner. ❑ The disc may be scratched. Place another disc to see if that is the reason. ❑ There may be condensation in the drive. Remove the disc and leave the drive open for approximately one hour. Remove the

battery while you wait for the condensation to disappear.

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Using the stick remote commander and the ear set

Your computer comes with a stick remote commander in order to make great use of the Windows Media Player software. You can change the stick remote commander settings. To change the settings, go to Start > Control Panel > Printers and Other

Hardware and click Stick Remote Commander. For more information, click Help on the Stick Remote Commander Properties window.

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1 VOL control Turn the control to increase or decrease

3 Jog lever

(, / ENT, )

5 HOLD switch Prevents accidental press to the buttons

7 DISPLAY button Displays information on the contents now

the ear set volume. You can set the volume independently for the built-in speakers and the ear set. Connecting and disconnecting the stick remote commander toggles the volume setting between the built-in speakers and

the ear set, and displays the dialog box to indicate it.

Use the Jog lever to play, pause, cue, fast-forward, and rewind contents.

on your computer.

in play, such as the remaining playback time.

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You can keep pressing the DISPLAY button to display the Stick Remote

Commander Menu. Then, you can put your computer in Standby mode or check the current time.

9 SOUND button Turns on/off the Bass Boost function

(only with the ear set).

6 Display window Displays information, such as the

button

+/- buttons

P MODE / button

Stops playing contents.

These buttons are currently not assigned to any functionality with Windows Media Player.

+:No current functionality.

-: No current functionality.

remaining battery life and the content description.

You can specify the playback method.

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1 You can also change the setting to hide this dialog box. To change the setting, go to Start > Control Panel > Printers and Other Hardware and click

Stick Remote Commander.

Connecting the stick remote commander and the ear set

Connect the ear set to the stick remote commander and to your computer as illustrated below. Make sure that the HOLD switch (1) on the stick remote commander is off.

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Attaching an ear piece

The supplied ear set comes with the medium-sized ear pieces attached. If these ear pieces do not fit comfortably in your ears, replace them with the supplied large- or small-sized ear pieces. Improperly fitting ear pieces may cause bass notes to be inaudible.

Using the clip on the stick remote commander

Depending on how you wear the stick remote commander, the text in the display window may appear upside down. In such event, reverse the orientation of the clip on the stick remote commander.

1 Raise and slide the clip in the direction of the arrows to remove it from the stick remote commander.

2 Turn around the clip and attach it again to the stick remote commander.

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Troubleshooting the stick remote commander

The remote commander does not work

❑ Check if the HOLD switch on the stick remote commander is turned on.

To turn off the HOLD switch, slide the switch in the reverse direction of the arrow.

❑ Check the connection between the ear set, the stick remote commander, and your computer. ❑ The stick remote commander is only designed for controlling Windows Media Player operations.

I cannot control Windows Media Player

❑ You must first launch Windows Media Player to control it with the stick remote commander. Go to Start > All Programs >

Windows Media Player and click Windows Media Player to launch the software.

❑ You can also choose to start Windows Media Player automatically by pressing the play button on the stick remote commander. To

do this, please check the “Launch application with jog lever” on the properties dialog opened by selecting Start > Control Panel > Printers and Other Hardware, and selecting Stick Remote Commander.

I can control Windows Media Player, but Stick Remote Commander display does not display any information except battery and bass boost icon.

Windows Media Player will sometimes release plug-ins if it encounters any problems. By selecting Tools > Plug-ins > Plugin for Stick Commander from the Windows Media Player menu, the plug-in will be connected, and Stick Remote Commander display should work again.

I cannot suspend my system after listening to Windows Media Player contents from the welcome screen.

Trying to go to Suspend mode while playing Windows Media Player will cause Windows Media Player to display a dialog indicating that the media playback might be paused or stopped by going into suspend. To stop this problem, please login and close the dialog after checking the “never display again” check box. If you want this dialog to be displayed at a later date, do not check the “never display again” check box.

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I cannot bring my system into normal mode from power-saving mode with the stick remote commander

When your system is in Hibernate mode, you cannot bring it back into normal mode with the stick remote commander. Press the STANDBY button or slide the POWER switch briefly in the direction of the arrow.

You can check the following to see if your system is in Standby or Hibernate mode. ❑ Standby mode

The power indicator is flashing amber. The battery icon is on the stick remote commander's display window.

❑ Hibernate mode

The power indicator is not lit. The battery icon is not

on the stick remote commander's display window.

Using the display/LAN adapter

Your computer comes with the display/LAN adapter. Attaching the display/LAN adapter enables you to connect an external display and access your network.

(External Display) button

See On the display/LAN adapter

2 Monitor/VGA port See

Connecting a computer display

3 Network See

Connecting to a network (LAN)

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Connecting the display/LAN adapter

Connect the display/LAN adapter, with the VAIO logo facing upward, to the I/O connector on the bottom of your computer.

✍

To disconnect the display/LAN adapter from your computer, push in the button on either side of the adapter connector.

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Using Memory Stick media

Your VAIO computer is designed to support Memory Stick media. A Memory Stick 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 CLIE handheld devices. Because it is removable, it can be used for external data storage.

Use the flash memory technology to download anything that can be converted into digital data, such as pictures, music, words, sounds, movies and photographs. The Memory Stick family ranges in capacity and compatibility.

❑ Detailed information about available optional accessories can be found here:

http://www.sonystyle.com

❑ Detailed information about which CLIE handhelds are compatible with which Memory Sticks can be found here:

http://www.clie-link.com/

❑ Detailed information about which VAIO computers are compatible with which Memory Sticks can be found here:

http://www.memorystick.com/en/

Write-protecting a Memory Stick

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

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

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

1 Some types of Memory Stick media do not have a erasure prevention switch.

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Inserting a Memory Stick

You can only insert one Memory Stick at a time.

To insert a Memory Stick using the Memory Stick slot, proceed as follows:

1 Once you have stored your data from your digital device, insert the Memory Stick with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory

Stick slot.

2 Carefully slide the Memory Stick into the slot until it clicks in place.

The Memory Stick 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).

Hold the Memory Stick with the arrow pointing in the correct direction when you insert it into the slot. To avoid damaging the computer or the Memory Stick, do not force the Memory Stick into the slot if it does not insert smoothly.

Removing a Memory Stick

To remove a Memory Stick using the Memory Stick slot, proceed as follows:

1 Check that the access light is off. 2 Push the Memory Stick in towards the computer.

The Memory Stick ejects.

3 Pull the Memory Stick out of the slot.

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

✍

Do not remove the Memory Stick while the Memory Stick indicator is turned on. If you do, you may lose data. Loading large volumes, for example, image clips, may take a while.

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Using Compact Flash Cards

Your computer is equipped with a Compact Flash Card slot that can accommodate a Type II Compact Flash Card. You can use Compact Flash Cards for data storage and exchange.

Inserting a Compact Flash Card

To insert a Compact Flash Card, proceed as follows:

1 Remove the Compact Flash protector from the slot.

To protect the Compact Flash Card slot, the slot contains the Compact Flash protector by default. You must remove the protector before inserting a Compact Flash Card into the slot.

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2 Insert a Compact Flash Card into a slot.

Make sure that the Compact Flash Card is secured in the slot.

To view the contents of the Compact Flash Card, go to Start > My Computer and click the removable disk icon in the My

Computer window.

Make sure to insert the Compact Flash Card in the correct orientation, as it may otherwise damage the slot. For more information, refer to the manual provided by your Compact Flash Card manufacturer.

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Removing a Compact Flash Card

Follow the steps below to remove the Compact Flash Card while your computer is on. If it is not removed properly, your system may not work properly. If you want to remove a Compact Flash Card when your computer is off, just take out the Compact Flash Card from the slot.

To remove a Compact Flash Card, proceed as follows:

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon in the system tray.

The Safely Remove Hardware dialog box appears.

2 Select the hardware you want to unplug. 3 Click Stop. 4 In the Stop a Hardware Device dialog box, confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system. 5 Click OK.

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

6 Click OK. 7 Click Close. 8 Take out the Compact Flash Card from the slot.

If you remove the Compact Flash Card from the computer when it is still turned on, your system may crash and you may lose any unsaved data.

Before you remove the Compact Flash Card, click the Compact Flash Card icon on the taskbar and close the card. Close any applications that use the Compact Flash Card before removing the card. Otherwise, data may be lost.

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Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

Thanks to Sony's 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 mobile user can connect to a local area network (LAN) through a wireless (radio) connection. So there is no need any more 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, this 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).

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✍

In some countries, using WLAN products may be restricted by the local regulations (e.g. limited number of channels). Therefore, before activating the WLAN functionality, read any regulatory information provided in the Safety Information booklet. Channel selection is explained further in this manual (see Wireless LAN channel selection).

✍

WLAN uses the IEEE 802.11b/g standard, which specifies the 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 IEEE 802.11i 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 IEEE 802.11a standard and the ones using the IEEE 802.11b or g standard cannot communicate because the frequencies are different. Wireless LAN devices using the IEEE 802.11g standard can only communicate with a device using the IEEE 802.11b standard, not with the IEEE 802.11a standard.

✍

IEEE 802.11b: The standard speed is 11 Mbps, or about 30 to 100 times faster than a standard dial up.

✍

IEEE 802.11g: The standard speed is 54 Mbps, or about 5 times faster than a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE 802.11b standard.

Communicating without 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.

To communicate without Access Point (ad-hoc), proceed as follows:

1 Turn on the Wireless LAN switch. 2 Double-click the network icon on the taskbar displaying Wireless Network Connection.

The Wireless Network Connection dialog box appears.

3 Click the Change advanced settings button.

The Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box appears.

4 Select the Wireless Networks tab. 5 Click the Add… button.

The Wireless network properties dialog box appears.

6 Enter a Network name (SSID)*.

You can choose up to a 32-digit alphanumeric name.

7 Select Open from the Network Authentication drop-down box. 8 Select WEP from the Data Encryption drop-down box. 9 Deselect the The key is provided for me automatically option button.

Some information becomes visible.

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10 Fill in the Network key1.

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

characters long. You can choose

whatever you want.

11 Fill in exactly the same Network key again, for confirmation. 12 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.

13 Click OK.

Yo u r Network name appears in the Preferred networks.

14 Click Advanced.

The Advanced dialog box appears.

15 Select the Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks only option button. 16 Click Close. 17 Click OK.

Your computer is ready to communicate with another computer.

✍

An ad-hoc network does not support WPA.

1 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.

2 Hexadecimal: A number representation using the digits 0-9, with their usual meaning, plus the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent hexa-

decimal digits with values of (decimal) 10 to 15.

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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.

To communicate with an Access Point (infrastructure), proceed as follows:

1 Turn on the Wireless LAN switch.

2 Right-click the network icon on the taskbar displaying the Wireless Network Connection message. 3 Click View Available Wireless Networks.

The Wireless Network Connection dialog box appears.

4 Select the network you want to use. 5 Type the Network Key. 6 Click Connect.

After 30 seconds, the connection is established.

For more information about setting up an access point, see the documentation supplied with your Access Point.

✍

The WPA key needs to contain at least 8 characters.

Using the WiFi protected access (WPA)

WPA is a wireless security enhancement that allows you to transfer data in a highly secure way1.

To use WPA on your notebook, proceed as follows:

1 Turn on the Wireless LAN switch. 2 Right-click the network icon on the taskbar displaying Wireless Network Connection. 3 Select View available network connections.

The Wireless Network Properties dialog box appears.

4 Select the wireless network to which you want to connect. 5 Fill in the Network key.

The network key should be at least 8 characters long.

6 Fill in exactly the same Network key again, for confirmation. 7 Click Connect.

The connection is established.

Using your VAIO computer

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In Ad-hoc mode, WPA security cannot be used (specifications in the standard itself).

1 For more information on the access point, please refer to its manual.

Using your VAIO computer

Wireless LAN channel selection

In a 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. ❑ ATT: For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the Access Point, please refer to the corresponding Instruction

Manual.

(b) Without 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 IEEE 802.11b and IEEE 802.11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed due to radio interference. Taking this into consideration, the IEEE 802.11g products are designed to reduce the communication speed to ensure communications with IEEE 802.11b products. When the communication speed is not as fast as expected, changing the wireless channel on the access point may increase the communication speed.

Troubleshooting Wireless LAN

I cannot use the Wireless LAN functionality

Check if the Wireless LAN switch is turned on.

The Wireless LAN Access Point and your computer cannot communicate

❑ Check if the Wireless LAN switch is turned on. ❑ Check if the power of the Access Point is turned on. ❑ Check if the Access Point is displayed in the Available networks window.

Using your VAIO computer

❑ To check this, click Start and then Control Panel. ❑ Click Network and Internet Connections. ❑ Click the Network Connections icon. ❑ Right-click the Wireless Network Connection icon and select Properties. ❑ Select the Wireless Networks tab. ❑ Check if the Access Point is displayed in Available networks. ❑ Connection availability is affected by distance and obstructions. You may need to move your computer away from obstructions

or neared to any Access Point you may be using.

Using your VAIO computer

The data transfer speed is slow

❑ The maximum communication speed can vary depending on the obstacles or the distance between the communication devices,

the radio waves, the operating system or the software you use. Remove the obstacle or make the distance between the Access Point and your machine smaller.

❑ It is possible that your Access Point communicates at the same time with another Access Point. Read the manual of the Access

Point.

❑ If several computers communicate with the same Access Point, the concentration may be too high. Wait a few minutes and try to

access again.

❑ If a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE 802.11g standard communicates with a device using the IEEE 802.11b standard, then it

is normal that the speed reduces. Devices using the IEEE 802.11g standard are 5 times faster then the ones using the IEEE

802.11b standard.

I cannot access the Internet

❑ Check the settings of the Access Point. See the manual of the Access Point. ❑ Check if your computer and the Access Point are communicating. ❑ Make the distance between the Access Point and your machine smaller.

Using your VAIO computer

I cannot use a Wireless LAN network

Check if the Wireless Zero Configuration service is active.

To check the status of the Wireless Zero Configuration service, proceed as follows:

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.

The Control Panel window appears.

2 Click the Performance and Maintenance icon. 3 Click the Administrative Tools icon. 4 Double-click the Services icon.

The Services window appears.

5 Check Status and Startup Type for Wireless Zero Configuration.

When Started and Automatic are shown under Status and Startup Type, respectively, the Wireless Zero Configuration service is active.

To activate the Wireless Zero Configuration service, proceed as follows:

1 On the Services window, right-click Wireless Zero Configuration and click Properties.

The Wireless Zero Configuration Properties window appears.

2 Select Automatic for Startup type and click Apply. 3 Click Start under Service status. 4 Click OK to close the window.

Using your VAIO computer

Using power saving modes

When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, you can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes: Standby and Hibernate. When using battery power, you should be aware that the computer automatically enters Hibernate mode when the remaining battery charge becomes short, regardless of the power management setting you select.

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If the battery level falls below 10 percent, you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery.

Using Normal mode

This is the normal state of your computer when it is in use. The green power indicator light is on in this mode. To save power while not working, you can turn off a specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk.

Using Standby mode

Standby mode turns off the LCD screen and sets the hard disk and the CPU to a low power consumption mode. The umber power light flashes in this mode.

To activate Standby mode, proceed as follows:

Press the STANDBY button or go to Start/Turn Off Computer and click Stand By. To return to Normal mode,

❑ press the STANDBY button. ❑ press any of the Enter and cursor keys on your computer. ❑ slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow. ❑ press the Jog lever if the remote commander is attached.

Using your VAIO computer

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If you slide and hold the power switch for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off automatically. You will lose any unsaved data.

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When the computer is in Standby mode, you cannot insert a disc.

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The computer comes out of Standby mode quicker than out of Hibernate mode.

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Standby mode uses more power than Hibernate mode.

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If the battery runs down 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.

If the computer is not used for 25 minutes, it will enter System Standby mode when running on AC power. When running on batteries, the computer also will enter System Standby mode after 25 minutes if unused. To avoid this, you can change the settings in the

Power Options Properties screen (right-click the power status icon on the taskbar - select Adjust Power Properties - select the Power Schemes tab and change the settings in Settings for VAIO optimized power scheme).

Using Hibernate mode

The state of the system is saved on the hard disk and power is turned off. Even when the battery runs down, no data will be lost. The power indicator light is off in this mode.

To activate Hibernate mode, proceed as follows:

Slide the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow (default assignment). The Hibernating screen appears and the computer enters Hibernate mode. If the folding keyboard is connected to your computer,

Using your VAIO computer

Click Start, and then Turn Off Computer. In the Turn off computer screen, hold down the <Shift>-key and click Hibernate.

To return to Normal mode, proceed as follows:

Turn on the computer by sliding the POWER switch in the direction of the arrow or pressing the STANDBY button. The computer returns to its previous state.

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If you slide and hold the power switch for more than four seconds, the computer will switch off automatically.

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If you do not use the AC adapter for a long period of time, put your computer into Hibernate mode. This power saving mode saves you the time of shutting down in the normal way.

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When the computer is in Hibernate mode, you cannot insert a disc.

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Hibernate mode requires more time than Standby mode to be activated.

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It takes more time to return to Normal mode from Hibernate mode than from Standby mode.

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Hibernate mode uses less power than Standby mode.

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Do not move the computer until its power indicator turns off.

Using your VAIO computer

Troubleshooting power management

The power management setting is not responding

Your computer's operating system may become unstable if a lower power state, such as Hibernate is initiated, and then changed before the computer completely enters the lower power state.

To restore the computer to its normal operating stability, proceed as follows:

1 Close all open applications. 2 Press the <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> button (located on the right side of your computer) or <Ctrl>+<Alt>+<Delete> simultaneously

on the folding keyboard and select Restart from the Shut Down drop-down list. The computer restarts.

3 If the procedure does not work, press and hold the power button for four seconds or longer to shut down the computer.

Using your VAIO computer

Managing power with VAIO Power Management

Power management helps you to set up power schemes of your computer that is running on AC power or batteries to suit your requirements for power consumption.

VAIO Power Management is a software application developed exclusively for VAIO computers. With this software application, you can enhance the Windows power management functions to ensure better operations of your computer and for longer battery life.

Activating VAIO Power Management

When you start the computer, a power status icon appears on the taskbar. This icon indicates what kind of power source you are using at that time, e.g., AC power. If you double-click this icon, the Power Meter screen appears showing you the power status.

VAIO Power Management functionalities are added to the Windows Power Options Properties.

To activate VAIO Power Management, proceed as follows:

1 Click Start and then Control Panel.

The Control Panel window appears.

2 Click the Performance and Maintenance icon. 3 Click Power Options icon.

The Power Options Properties window appears.

4 Select the VAIO Power Management tab.

Using your VAIO computer

Activating VAIO Power Management power schemes

VAIO Power Management provides several predefined power schemes. Each power scheme consists of a group of power management settings that are designed to meet specific power management goals, ranging from maximum power management to no power management.

To activate a VAIO Power Management power scheme, proceed as follows:

1 Open Adjust Power Properties. 2 Select the Power Schemes tab. 3 Select a power scheme from the Power schemes drop-down list. 4 If you now select the VAIO Power Management tab, you see that the selected power scheme appears to the right of Power

Scheme.

5 If necessary, you can change the items in the list, e.g., the brightness of the LCD. 6 Click OK.

The power scheme has been activated.

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You must have computer administrator rights on your computer to set up a power scheme.

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For more information on VAIO Power Management and Power Schemes, please read the online help file.

Power Scheme Description

Power Management Off Turns off all power management features such as Standby and Hibernate modes.

VAIO Optimized The default power management state for either power source.

VAIO Maximum Battery Provides power saving features to give you maximum battery life and good performance when battery power is in use.

It reduces the brightness of the display and puts the system into Standby mode after a specified time period.

Using your VAIO computer

Power Scheme Description

VAIO Ultimate Battery Provides longer battery life than VAIO Maximum Battery.

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If you have a mobile CPU (see the specifications), a CPU control icon may appear on the taskbar. The CPU control icon indicates the CPU control status (Performance, Adaptive, Battery Life, Degrade). To make the icon appear, click the Advanced button on the VAIO Power Management tab. Select the Show CPU status icon in the taskbar box and then click OK.

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If you want to know more about the CPU control icon, read the online help file (Other Information - Icons on the Notification Area).

Restoring the default settings

The power scheme settings that you changed on the VAIO Power Management tab can be restored to the default settings.

To restore the default settings, proceed as follows:

1 Select the VAIO Power Management tab in the Power Options Properties window. 2 Click the Advanced button.

The VAIO Power Management window appears.

3 Click the Reset by default button.

The Confirm window appears.

4 Select the Restore all power schemes to the original factory default settings. 5 Click OK.

The Confirm window closes and the default settings are restored for all the power scheme options.

Using your VAIO computer

VAIO Power Management Viewer

To start VAIO Power Management Viewer, proceed as follows:

Click on the VAIO Power Management tab. Alternatively, you can click Start, point to All Programs and VAIO Power Management, and then click VAIO Power Management

Viewer to start the viewer. VAIO Power Management Viewer is provided with two tabs: Running on batteries and Plugged in. Starting the viewer automatically

displays the tab appropriate to the current power scheme of your computer. On each tab, the radar chart shows performance with the current power scheme and the modified power scheme in the designated colours.

To change the power scheme, proceed as follows:

Select the desired power scheme from the drop-down list on VAIO Power Management Viewer.

To view performance with the power scheme modified with VAIO Power Management, proceed as follows:

When both VAIO Power Management and VAIO Power Management Viewer are running, VAIO Power Management Viewer shows performance with the power scheme that was modified with VAIO Power Management.

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Use VAIO Power Management to set up or modify the power scheme.

Connecting peripheral devices

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

❑ Connecting an external display ❑ Selecting display modes ❑ Using the Multiple Monitors function ❑ Connecting external speakers ❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) device ❑ Connecting an i.LINK device ❑ Connecting to a network (LAN)

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To identify and locate the ports on your computer, please see the printed Welcome Mat.

Detailed information about available optional accessories can be found at: http://

www.sonystyle.com/.

Connecting peripheral devices

Connecting an external display

You can connect an external display to your computer via the port replicator or the display/LAN adapter. For example, you can use your computer with a computer display or a projector.

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Turn off your computer and the peripherals, unplug the AC adapter and the power cord before connecting the external display.

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Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables.

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Turn on the peripherals, then turn on your computer.

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Connected external displays are used as second screens.

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(For Windows systems only) You can also use an external display to set up multiple monitors.

Connecting peripheral devices

Connecting a computer display

You can connect a computer display (monitor) either via the port replicator or the display/LAN adapter.

To connect a computer display, proceed as follows:

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 Plug the display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor/VGA connector (3) on the port replicator or the display/LAN adapter.

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In certain circumstances, you may not be able to display the computer LCD screen and an external display at the same time.

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You can toggle the output between the computer LCD-screen and the external

monitor by pressing the button on the port replicator or the display/ LAN adapter.

Connecting peripheral devices

Connecting a projector

You can connect a projector (such as the Sony LCD projector) either via the port replicator or the display/LAN adapter.

To connect a projector, proceed as follows:

1 Connect the power cord (1) of the projector into an AC outlet.

2 Plug the RGB signal cable (2) into the monitor/VGA connector (3) on the port replicator or the display/LAN adapter.

3 Plug the audio cable (4) (not supplied) into the earphone connector (5) . 4 Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the connectors on the projector (6).

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Under certain circumstances, you may not be able to display the computer LCD screen and a projector at the same time.

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You can toggle the output between the computer LCD-screen and the projector by

pressing the button on the port replicator or the display/LAN adapter.

Troubleshooting external displays

I cannot display contents on two or more displays at the same time

You cannot display contents on multiple external displays at the same time. Select one of the external displays.

100

Connecting peripheral devices

Sony VGN-U750P User Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Read this first

ENERGY STAR

Owner's record

Safety Information

General

Regulatory information

Disposing of lithium ion batteries

Disposing of internal memory backup battery

Welcome

Documentation pack

Printed documentation

Non-printed documentation

Using your VAIO computer

Connecting a power source

Using the AC adapter

Using the battery pack

Attaching the battery pack

Charging the battery pack

Removing the battery pack

Troubleshooting power supply

My computer does not start or the power switch is disabled (The power indicator flashes quickly)

A message appears and my computer is in Hibernate mode

Setting the password

Adding the password

Changing/removing the password

Setting up your computer with Sony Notebook Setup

Shutting down your computer safely

Using the keyboard

Connecting/disconnecting the folding keyboard

Combinations and functions with the <Fn> key

Indicators

Troubleshooting the keyboard

A key top has fallen off

Troubleshooting sound

My speakers are not producing sound

Using the touch panel

Calibrating the touch panel

Using the stylus

Troubleshooting the touch panel

My screen does not display anything

Using the pointing device

Troubleshooting the pointing device on the computer

The multi-pointer is not working

The pointer does not move

My computer responds to click when I touch the multi-pointer

Troubleshooting the pointing device on the folding keyboard

The cursor moves on its own during character input

The multi-pointer is not working

The pointer does not move

The pointer moves on its own while I'm not touching the multi-pointer

My computer responds to click when I touch the multi-pointer

Using special buttons

On the computer

On the port replicator

On the display/LAN adapter

Troubleshooting special buttons

Pressing the ZOOM button does not change the screen resolution

Pressing the ROTATE button does not rotate the screen view

Pressing the ROTATE button displays the BIOS setup screen

Using the port replicator

Attaching your computer to the port replicator

Disconnecting your computer from the port replicator

Using a disc drive

Connecting the disc drive

Disconnecting the disc drive

Reading and writing CDs and DVDs

Playing DVDs

Troubleshooting the optical disc drive

My disc drive tray does not open

I cannot play a disc

I cannot play a DVD

I cannot play a DVD when using two screens

I cannot play a DVD VIDEO

The reading speed of CD/DVD-RWs is very slow

The disc tray does not eject even when the eject button is pressed

The disc tray ejects even when it has been locked into place