Sony VGN-Z520N, VGN-Z520N/B, VGN-Z530N, VGN-Z530N/B, VGN-Z540 User Guide

User Guide

Personal Computer

VGN-Z500 Series

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Contents

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

NERGY STAR ...............................................................................................................................................................7

E

Documentation .............................................................................................................................................................8

Ergonomic Considerations.........................................................................................................................................12

Getting Started .................................................................................................................................................................14

Locating Controls and Ports.......................................................................................................................................15

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

Connecting a Power Source ......................................................................................................................................23

Using the Battery Pack ..............................................................................................................................................24

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

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

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

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

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

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...................................................................................................................36

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

Using the ExpressCard Module .................................................................................................................................49

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

Using Other Memory Cards .......................................................................................................................................58

Using the Internet.......................................................................................................................................................61

Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) .....................................................................................................................................63

Using the Bluetooth Functionality ..............................................................................................................................71

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Using Peripheral Devices .................................................................................................................................................76

Connecting a Docking Station....................................................................................................................................77

Connecting External Speakers ..................................................................................................................................85

Connecting an External Display.................................................................................................................................86

Selecting Display Modes............................................................................................................................................93

Using the Multiple Monitors Function .........................................................................................................................96

Connecting an External Microphone..........................................................................................................................99

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device....................................................................................................100

Connecting a Printer ................................................................................................................................................103

Connecting an i.LINK Device ...................................................................................................................................104

Connecting to a Network (LAN) ...............................................................................................................................106

Customizing Your VAIO Computer ................................................................................................................................108

Selecting Performance Modes .................................................................................................................................109

Setting the Password ...............................................................................................................................................110

Using Fingerprint Authentication..............................................................................................................................122

Using Trusted Platform Module (TPM).....................................................................................................................130

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center..............................................................................................140

Using VAIO Status Monitor ......................................................................................................................................141

Using the Power Saving Modes...............................................................................................................................142

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management ....................................................................................................147

Protecting the Hard Disk ..........................................................................................................................................149

Upgrading Your VAIO Computer....................................................................................................................................150

Adding and Removing Memory................................................................................................................................151

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Precautions ....................................................................................................................................................................157

On Handling the LCD Screen ..................................................................................................................................158

On Using the Power Source ....................................................................................................................................159

On Handling Your Computer....................................................................................................................................160

On Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera...........................................................................................................162

On Handling Floppy Disks .......................................................................................................................................163

On Handling Discs ...................................................................................................................................................164

On Using the Battery Pack.......................................................................................................................................165

On Using Headphones.............................................................................................................................................167

On Handling Memory Stick Media............................................................................................................................168

On Handling the Hard Disk ......................................................................................................................................169

On Updating Your Computer ...................................................................................................................................170

Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................................171

Computer .................................................................................................................................................................173

System Security .......................................................................................................................................................181

Battery......................................................................................................................................................................182

Built-in MOTION EYE Camera.................................................................................................................................184

Internet.....................................................................................................................................................................187

Networking ...............................................................................................................................................................189

Bluetooth Technology ..............................................................................................................................................193

Optical Discs ............................................................................................................................................................197

Display .....................................................................................................................................................................202

Printing.....................................................................................................................................................................206

Microphone ..............................................................................................................................................................207

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Mouse ......................................................................................................................................................................208

Speakers..................................................................................................................................................................209

Touch Pad................................................................................................................................................................211

Keyboard..................................................................................................................................................................212

Floppy Disks ............................................................................................................................................................213

Audio/Video..............................................................................................................................................................214

Memory Stick Media ................................................................................................................................................217

Peripherals ...............................................................................................................................................................219

Docking Station ........................................................................................................................................................220

Support Options .............................................................................................................................................................221

Sony Support Information ........................................................................................................................................222

Program Support Information...................................................................................................................................225

Trademarks ....................................................................................................................................................................237

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Before Use

Before Use

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

!

External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer.

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Before Use

ENERGY STAR

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

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

❑ http://www.energystar.gov
❑ http://www.eu-energystar.org

(USA)

(Europe)

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

❑ The LCD backlight is turned off automatically after inactivity of about 15 minutes.
❑ The computer enters Sleep mode automatically after inactivity of about 30 minutes.

Press any key to bring the computer back into Normal mode.
For detailed information on power saving modes, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 142).

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Before Use

Documentation

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

Printed Documentation

❑ Welcome mat — Contains an overview of components connection, set-up information, etc.
❑ Safety Information — Contains safety guidelines and owner information.

Non-printed Documentation

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

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

✍

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

❑ Specifications — The online specifications describe the hardware and software configurations of your VAIO computer.

To view the online specifications:

1 Connect to the Internet.
2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at the following URLs:

http://esupport.sony.com/EN/VAIO/
http://www.sony.ca/support/
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/
http://esupport.sony.com/ES/VAIO/BR/

for customers in Canada

for customers in USA

for customers in Spanish speaking Latin American countries or areas

for customers in Brazil

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Before Use

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

drivers, and drive partition(s) or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings.
To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start and Help and Support.
2 Click Manuals & Specifications.
3 Click VAI O Recovery Center User Guide.

❑ RAID Guide (Selected models only) — Provides information about using RAID systems.

To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start and Help and Support.
2 Click Manuals & Specifications.
3 Click Other Documents.

™

❑ SmartWi

Connection Utility Help (Selected models only) — Provides information about setting up Bluetooth, wireless

LAN, and wireless WAN functionalities.
To access this on-screen guide:

1 Click Start, All Programs, and SmartWi Connection Utility.
2 Click SmartWi Connection Utility Help.

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Before Use

Help and Support

Help and Support is easy to access and provides a single location for information and technical assistance for your VAIO
computer. Choose from the following categories to find the answers you need.

To access Help and Support, click Start and Help and Support.

❑ Manuals & Specifications

Here you will find the on-screen User Guide, warranty information, other VAIO documents, and system and software
information for your computer.

❑ VAIO Support

Access interactive help in the form of VAIO tutorials, an escalation page containing support and contact information, and
various links to VAIO online support Web sites.

❑ Backup & Recovery

Find information on how to back up and restore your operating system, system software, and your personal data.

❑ Wireless & Networking

Learn about wireless connections including Bluetooth Wireless technology and Wireless LAN. Run utilities that include
VAIO Media Setup and Windows Network and Sharing Center, and access to wireless tutorials.

❑ Security

Keep your data safe and your computer running efficiently with updates and maintenance programs from Microsoft and
Sony.

❑ VAIO Sites

Contains links to other Internet sites you might find interesting and useful.

❑ VAIO Tutorials

Sony provides guided help tutorials that help you accomplish a task. It can either perform the task for you or show you
how to do it step by step.

❑ VAIO Registration

Please take a moment to register your VAIO computer to enjoy the following benefits:

❑ Your computer will be registered with Sony Product Support.
❑ You will receive an e-coupon good for purchase of eligible accessories at SonyStyle.com.

❑ Extended Service Plan

Sony VAIO products come with a 1 year Limited Warranty. Protect your investment further by purchasing an optional
Extended Service Plan.

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Before Use

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Before Use

Ergonomic Considerations

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

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

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

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

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

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Before Use

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

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

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

lighting to avoid bright spots on the display. Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency.

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

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

Getting Started

Getting Started

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

!

Before starting your computer for the first time, do not connect any other hardware that did not originally come with your computer. Be sure to start
up your computer with only the supplied accessories connected and set up your system. Upon completion, connect one device (for example, a printer,
an external hard disk drive, a scanner, and so on) at a time, following the manufacturers' instructions.

❑ Locating Controls and Ports (page 15)

❑ About the Indicator Lights (page 21)

❑ Connecting a Power Source (page 23)

❑ Using the Battery Pack (page 24)

❑ Shutting Down Your Computer Safely (page 31)

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Getting Started

Locating Controls and Ports

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

!

The appearance of your computer may be different from those illustrated in this manual due to variations in specifications. It may also vary in some
countries or areas.

Front

A Built-in MOTION EYE camera (page 36)
B Built-in MOTION EYE camera indicator (page 21)
C Num lock indicator (page 21)
D Caps lock indicator (page 21)
E Scroll lock indicator (page 21)
F LCD screen (page 158)
G Built-in speakers (stereo)
H Keyboard (page 33)
I Touch pad (page 34)
J Fingerprint sensor (page 122)

* On selected models only.

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Getting Started

STAMINA mode indicator (page 21)

A
B Performance selector switch (page 109)
C SPEED mode indicator (page 21)
D S1/S2 buttons (page 35)
E Disc drive eject button (page 35)
F Charge indicator (page 21)
G Hard disk drive/Optical disc drive indicator (page 21)
H Media Access indicator (page 21)
I WIRELESS indicator (page 21)
J SD memory card slot (page 58)

K Memory Stick slot

*

(page 52)

L WIRELESS switch (page 63)
M Built-in microphone (monaural)

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

Back

A Battery connector (page 24)

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Getting Started

Right

Getting Started

A Optical disc drive (page 39)
B Optical disc drive indicator (page 21)
C Manual eject hole (page 197)
D Substitute drive eject button (page 39)

E HDMI port
F Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port
G Monitor port

*1 *2

(page 90)

*2 *4

(page 86)

*3

(page 100)

H Power button/Power indicator (page 21)

*1

Available only when your computer is in SPEED mode.

*2

These two ports are mutually exclusive. When one port has an external
display connected, the other is disabled.

*3

Supports high-/full-/low- speeds.

*4

Disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station.

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Left

A DC IN port (page 23)
B Network (Ethernet) port (page 106)
C Air vent

D ExpressCard/34

slot (page 49)

E Security slot
F Modem port (page 61)

G Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) port

*

(page 100)

H i.LINK 4-pin (S400) port (page 104)
I Microphone jack (page 99)
J Headphones jack (page 85)

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

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Getting Started

Bottom

A Docking station connector (page 79)
B Air vents

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Getting Started

Getting Started

About the Indicator Lights

Your computer is equipped with the following indicator lights.

Indicator Functions

Power 1 Illuminates in green when the computer is turned on, blinks slowly in orange while the computer is in Sleep

mode, and turns off when the computer is placed into Hibernate mode or turned off.

Charge

Media Access Illuminates while data is being read from or written to a memory card. (Do not place the computer into Sleep

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

STAMINA mode Illuminates while the computer is in STAMINA mode to conserve battery power.

SPEED mode Illuminates while the computer is in SPEED mode to provide faster performance.

Optical disc drive Illuminates while data is being read from or written to the optical disc media. When the indicator is off, the optical

Hard disk drive/Optical disc drive

Num lock

Caps lock

Scroll lock

Illuminates while the battery pack is charging. See Charging the Battery Pack (page 27) for more information.

mode or turn it off when this indicator is on.) When the indicator is off, the memory card is not in use.

disc media is not in use.

*

Illuminates while data is being read from or written to the built-in flash memory, the hard disk drive
disc media. Do not place the computer into Sleep mode or turn it off when this indicator is on.

Press the Num Lk key to activate the numeric keypad. Press it a second time to deactivate the numeric keypad.
The numeric keypad is not active when the indicator is off.

Press the Caps Lock key to type letters in uppercase. Letters appear in lowercase if you press the Shift key
while the indicator is on. Press the key a second time to turn off the indicator. Normal typing resumes when the
Caps lock indicator is off.

Press the Scr Lk key to change how you scroll the display. Normal scrolling resumes when the Scroll lock
indicator is off. The Scr Lk key functions differently depending on the program you are using and does not work
with all programs.

, or the optical

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Getting Started

Indicator Functions

WIRELESS Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is turned on, provided that one or more wireless options are enabled

in the VAIO Smart Network window.

* Your computer is equipped with a built-in flash memory storage or a hard disk drive depending on the model you purchased. See the online specifications to find

out about your storage device configuration.

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Getting Started

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

✍

Use your computer only with the supplied AC adapter.

To use the AC adapter

1 Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter (3).
2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet (2).
3 Plug the cable connected to the AC adapter (3) into the DC IN port (4) on the computer or on the optional docking station.

!

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

✍

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

Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible.

If you do not intend to use your computer for a long period of time, place the computer into Hibernate mode. See Using Hibernate Mode (page 145).
This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down and resuming.

Using the Battery Pack

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

Installing the Battery Pack

To install the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the battery LOCK switch (1) inward.

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Getting Started

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Getting Started

3 Slide the battery pack diagonally into the battery compartment until the projections (2) on either side of the battery

compartment fit into the U-shaped cuts (3) on either side of the battery pack.

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Getting Started

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

into place.

5 Slide the battery LOCK switch outward to secure the battery pack on the computer.

✍

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

!

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

Getting Started

Charging the Battery Pack

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

To charge the battery pack

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

The charge indicator turns on while the battery pack is charging. When the battery pack charges close to the maximum
charge level you selected with the battery care function, the charge indicator turns off. To select your desired maximum
charge level, see Using the Battery Care Function (page 29).

Charge indicator light status Meaning

Lit in orange The battery pack is charging.

Unlit The battery pack is in any of the following states:

Blinks along with the green power
indicator light

Blinks along with the orange power
indicator light

Blinks fast in orange A battery error has occurred due to a failed battery

- Fully charged.

- Completely out of power.

- Removed.

The battery pack is running out of power. (Normal
mode)

The battery pack is running out of power. (Sleep mode)

pack or an unlocked battery pack.

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!

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

Getting Started

✍

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

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

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

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when battery life is low. To avoid loss
of data when using battery power, you should save your data frequently and manually activate a power management mode, such as Sleep or Hibernate.

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

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

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Getting Started

Using the Battery Care Function

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

To use the battery care function

1 Click Start, All Programs, and VAIO Control Center.
2 Click Power Management and Battery Care Function.
3 Click to select the Enable Battery Care Function check box in the right pane.
4 Click Advanced.
5 Select the desired maximum charge level.
6 Click OK.

To check the battery wear level

Follow steps 1 and 4 in To use the battery care function above and check detailed information. If the battery wear level is
high, replace the battery pack with a new genuine Sony battery pack.

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Getting Started

Removing the Battery Pack

!

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

To remove the battery pack

1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid.
2 Slide the battery LOCK switch (1) inward.
3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch (2) inward, hook your fingertip under the tab (3) on the battery pack, and turn

the battery pack in the direction of the arrow, and then slide it away from the computer.

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Getting Started

Shutting Down Your Computer Safely

To avoid losing unsaved data, be sure to shut down your computer properly, as described below.

To shut down your computer

1 Turn off any peripherals connected to the computer.

2 Click Start, the arrow next to the Lock button, and Shut Down.
3 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for the computer to turn off

automatically.
The power indicator light turns off.

Using Your VAIO Computer

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

❑ Using the Keyboard (page 33)

❑ Using the Touch Pad (page 34)

❑ Using Special-function Buttons (page 35)

❑ Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera (page 36)

❑ Using the Optical Disc Drive (page 39)

❑ Using the ExpressCard Module (page 49)

❑ Using the Memory Stick Media (page 52)

❑ Using Other Memory Cards (page 58)

❑ Using the Internet (page 61)

❑ Using Wireless LAN (WLAN) (page 63)

❑ Using the Bluetooth Functionality (page 71)

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Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a desktop computer keyboard, but has additional keys that perform model-specific tasks.

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

✍

Some keyboard functions can be used only after the operating system finished launching.

Combinations/Feature Functions

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

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

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

Fn + /T (F7): display output

Fn + / (F9/F10): zoom

Fn + (F12): hibernate

* Your computer is equipped with a built-in flash memory storage or a hard disk drive, depending on the model you purchased. See the online specifications to find

out about your storage device configuration.

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

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

Toggles among your computer screen, an external display, and simultaneous output to both.

Changes the view size of your screen.
To make the screen view look smaller and further away (zoom out), press Fn+F9.
To make the screen view look bigger and closer (zoom in), press Fn+F10.
See the help file on VAIO Control Center for more information.

Provides for the lowest level of power consumption. When you execute this command, the
states of the system and the connected peripheral devices are saved to the built-in flash

memory storage or the hard disk drive
to its original state, use the power button to turn on the power.
For details on power management, see Using the Power Saving Modes (page 142).

*

and the system power is turned off. To return the system

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Touch Pad

You can point to, select, drag, and scroll objects on the screen using the touch pad.

Action Description

Point Slide your finger on the touch pad (1) to place the pointer (2) on an item or object.

Click Press the left button (3) once.

Double-click Press the left button twice.

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

Drag Slide your finger on the touch pad while pressing the left button.

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

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

✍

You can disable/enable the touch pad while a mouse is connected to your computer. To change the touch pad settings, click Start, All Programs, VAIO
Control Center, Keyboard and Mouse and Pointing Device.

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!

Be sure to connect a mouse before disabling the touch pad. If you disable the touch pad without connecting a mouse, you will be able to use only the
keyboard for pointer operations.

Using Special-function Buttons

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

Special-function button Functions

S1/S2 buttons

Disc drive eject button

By default, the S1 button displays the VAIO Presentation Support window to select the display method in
Presentation mode from Mirror or Extend Desktop. Selecting any display method places your computer into
Presentation mode. In Presentation mode, some functions of the computer that may disturb a presentation
are disabled, such as a screen saver, the power saving modes, and system message generation. In addition,
you can use handy functions for the presentation, for example, displaying a document for quick reference and
the mirror image of the external display simultaneously on the computer. To bring the computer back into
Normal mode, press this button once again.
The S2 button launches Windows Meeting Space.

✍

The default button assignments may be different from the above. In such a case, you can change the assignments in the
window for changing the S button assignments. To display this window, press and hold either button or launch and
navigate through VAIO Control Center. See the help file on VAIO Control Center for the S button assignments.

To change the Presentation mode settings, click Start, Control Panel, Mobile PC, and Adjust settings before giving a
presentation under Windows Mobility Center, and change the settings in the Presentation Settings window.

Ejects the optical disc drive tray.
If this button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Using the Built-in MOTION EYE Camera

Your computer is equipped with a built-in MOTION EYE camera.
The built-in MOTION EYE camera adds video functionality to instant messaging software and video editing software and

enables you to capture still images and movies with the preinstalled image capture software.
Turning on the computer activates the built-in MOTION EYE camera, so the computer is ready for a video conference using

such software.
Note that launching or exiting your instant messaging or video editing software does not activate or deactivate the built-in

MOTION EYE camera, respectively.

✍

The built-in MOTION EYE camera cannot be shared by more than one software application. If another software application is using the camera, exit the
application before using the built-in MOTION EYE camera.

!

The viewer window may show some noise, for example horizontal streaks, if you view a rapid-moving object. This is normal and does not indicate a
malfunction.

You cannot operate the built-in MOTION EYE camera with the Microsoft Windows Movie Maker software.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Capturing Still Images

To capture a still image

1 Click Start, All Programs, ArcSoft WebCam Companion 2, and WebCam Companion 2 to launch WebCam

Companion 2.
2 Click the Capture icon in the main window.
3 Turn the camera to your subject.
4 Click the Capture button below the displayed image.

The current image in the finder view is captured and its thumbnail image is added to the thumbnail view in the left pane

of the main window.

✍

When capturing an image in a dark place, click the WebCam Settings icon after step 2 and select the low light or low light compensation option in the

properties window.

WebCam Companion 2 provides many more features. See the help file on the software for more information.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Capturing Movies

To capture a movie

1 Click Start, All Programs, ArcSoft WebCam Companion 2, and WebCam Companion 2 to launch WebCam

Companion 2.
2 Click the Record icon in the main window.
3 Turn the camera to your subject.
4 Click the Record Video button below the displayed image to start movie recording.
5 When finished, click the Record Video button once again to stop movie recording.

The first scene of the captured movie is added to the thumbnail view in the left pane of the main window.

✍

When capturing a movie in a dark place, click the WebCam Settings icon after step 2 and select the low light or low light compensation option in the

properties window.

WebCam Companion 2 provides many more features. See the help file on the software for more information.

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Using the Optical Disc Drive

Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive.

To insert a disc

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

The tray slides out.

✍

If the disc drive eject button does not work, try the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive.

If the power supply to the optical disc drive is disabled by VAIO Power Management, it will take a while to eject the drive tray. Note that the substitute

drive eject button is disabled when the optical disc drive is not powered.

When recovering your system, turn on your computer and press the substitute drive eject button on the optical disc drive. Insert your recovery disc

into the optical disc drive, turn off the computer, and then turn on the computer again to start the recovery process.

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3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing upward and gently push it down until the disc clicks into

place.

4 Close the tray by pushing it in gently.

!

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

✍

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

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Reading and Writing Optical Discs

Your computer plays and records CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Disc™ media, depending on the model you purchased. Check your
specifications for the type of optical disc drive installed on your model.

Use the table below to see which types of media your optical disc drive supports.

Using Your VAIO Computer

PR: playable and recordable
P: playable but not recordable
–: not playable or recordable

CD­ROM

DVD± RW/

PPPPPRPP–

±R DL/RAM

Blu-ray Disc P P P P

Blu-ray Disc

PPPP

Combo

*1

Supports writing data to DVD-R discs compliant with DVD-R for General Version 2.0/2.1.

*2

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

*3

The DVD±RW/RAM disc drive on your computer does not support the DVD-RAM cartridge. Use non-cartridge discs or discs with a removable cartridge.

*4

Writing data to single-sided DVD-RAM discs (2.6 GB) compliant with DVD-RAM Version 1.0 is not supported.
DVD-RAM Version 2.2/12X-SPEED DVD-RAM Revision 5.0 disc is not supported.

*5

Writing data to DVD+R DL (Double Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD+R DL (Double Layer) recording.

*6

Writing data to DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) discs is available only on discs supporting DVD-R DL (Dual Layer) recording.

*7

Supports writing data to BD-R Version 1.1 discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB) and BD-RE Version 2.1
discs (single-layer discs with the capacity of 25 GB, dual-layer discs with the capacity of 50 GB).

*8

Writing data to Ultra Speed CD-RW discs is not supported on the models with certain types of the Blu-ray Disc drive.

*9

BD-R stands for Blu-ray Disc-Recordable in Version 1.1 format.

*10

BD-RE stands for Blu-ray Disc-Rewritable in Version 2.1 format.

*11

The Blu-ray Disc drive on your computer does not support BD-RE Disc media in Version 1.0 format and Blu-ray Disc media with a cartridge.

Video CDMusic CDCD

Extra

CD-R/RWDVD-

ROM

*8

PR

PR

PPP

*8

PPP

DVD­Video

BD­ROM

DVD-R/RWDVD+R/RWDVD+R DLDVD-R DLDVD-

RAM

PR

PR

PR

*1 *2

PR

*1 *2

PR P P

*1 *2

PR

PR

PR

*5

PR

*6

PR

PR

*5

PR

*6

PR

*3 *4

*3 *4

*3 *4P*11

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*9

/

BD-R

*10

RE

–

*7 *11

PR

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!

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

sided disc product with a DVD recorded layer on one side and a digital audio layer on the other side. Be aware that the audio side (non-DVD side) of a

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

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

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

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

or "Blu-ray Disc" standard in relation to Blu-ray Disc drives). USING NON-COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO PC OR

CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING.

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

✍

8cm disc writing is not supported.

!

To play copyright protected Blu-ray Disc media continuously, you need to update the AACS key. Note that the AACS key update requires Internet access.

As with other optical media devices, circumstances may limit compatibility or prevent Blu-ray Disc media playback. VAIO computers may not support

movie playback on packaged media recorded in AVC or VC1 format at high bit rates.

Region settings are required for some contents on DVDs and BD-ROM Disc media. If the region setting on the optical disc drive does not match the

region coding on the disc, playback is not possible.

Unless your external display is compliant with the High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard, you cannot play or view the contents

on copyright protected Blu-ray Disc media.

Some contents may restrict video output to be standard definition or prohibit analog video output at all. It is strongly recommended that digital HDCP-

compliant environment be implemented for optimum compatibility and viewing quality.

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Notes on writing data to a disc

❑ Use only Sony recommended software, which is preinstalled on your computer, to write data to a disc.

Other software programs may not be fully compatible and errors may result.
❑ To make data on a disc readable on the optical disc drive, you need to close the session before you eject it. To complete

this process, follow the instructions included with your software.
❑ Only use circular discs. Do not use discs in any other shape (star, heart, card, etc.), as this may damage the optical disc

drive.

❑ Do not strike or shake your computer while writing data to a disc.
❑ Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti-virus software before writing data to a disc.
❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software while writing data to a disc. This may cause your computer to malfunction.
❑ Before using your software application to burn discs, make sure you exit and close all other applications.
❑ Do not place your computer into either of the power saving modes while using the preinstalled software or any disc

burning software.

❑ Connect and use the AC adapter to power your computer or make sure your battery pack is at least 50% charged.
❑ Make sure you use the same disc burning software to add data to a used disc. Use of different disc burning software for

additional data burning may cause a failure. For example, if you have a disc with data that you burned with the Roxio

Easy Media Creator software, use the Roxio Easy Media Creator software to add more data to the same disc.

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Notes on playing discs

To achieve optimum performance when playing discs, you should follow these recommendations.
❑ Some CD players and computers' optical disc drives may not be able to play audio CDs created with the CD-R or CD-RW

media.
❑ Some DVD players and computers' optical disc drives may not be able to play DVDs created with the DVD+R DL, DVD-

R DL, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, or DVD-RAM media.
❑ Do not use memory-resident utility software to speed up disc access when playing a disc. This may cause your computer

to malfunction.

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

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

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

computer.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Playing CDs

To play an audio CD

1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive.
2 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired CD software to play the CD.

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

Copying Files to CDs

To copy files to a disc

!

Do not strike or shake your computer while writing data to a disc.

1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive.

If the AutoPlay window appears, click Burn files to disc and follow the on-screen instructions until the empty disc folder

appears.

2 Open the folder that contains the file(s) you want to copy and drag them to the empty disc folder.
3 Close the disc folder.

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Playing DVDs

To play a DVD

1 Close all running software applications.
2 Insert a DVD into the optical disc drive.
3 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired DVD software to play the DVD.

For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD software.

Copying Files to DVDs

To copy files to a disc

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2 Close all running software applications.
3 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive.
4 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired DVD burning software to copy files to

the disc.
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your DVD burning software.

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Playing Blu-ray Disc Media

!

The Blu-ray Disc playback function is available on selected models only. See the online specifications to find out the type of your optical disc drive, and

then Reading and Writing Optical Discs (page 41) to find out about the supported disc media.

To play a Blu-ray Disc media

1 Close all running software applications.
2 Insert a Blu-ray Disc media into the optical disc drive.
3 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired Blu-ray Disc software to play the disc.

For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your software.

Copying Files to Blu-ray Disc Media

!

The Blu-ray Disc writing function is available on selected models only. See the online specifications to find out the type of your optical disc drive, and

then Reading and Writing Optical Discs (page 41) to find out about the supported disc media.

To copy files to a Blu-ray Disc media

1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer.
2 Close all running software applications.
3 Insert a Blu-ray Disc media into the optical disc drive.
4 If nothing appears on the desktop, then click Start, All Programs, and the desired Blu-ray Disc burning software to copy

files to the disc.
For instructions on how to use the software, see the help file on your Blu-ray Disc burning software.

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Using the ExpressCard Module

Your computer is equipped with either a Universal ExpressCard slot* or an ExpressCard/34 slot* for transferring data among
digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices. The former
ExpressCard/34

*

module

only.

(34mm wide) or ExpressCard/54 (54mm wide) module* as shown below; and the latter, an ExpressCard/34

can accommodate either an

❑ ExpressCard/34 module

Your computer is equipped with an ExpressCard/34

* Referred to as the ExpressCard slot and the ExpressCard module in this manual.

*

❑ ExpressCard/54 module

slot*.

*

Inserting an ExpressCard Module

!

Use care when inserting or removing the ExpressCard module from the slot. Do not force it in or out of the slot.

✍

You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing the ExpressCard module.

To insert an ExpressCard module

1 Locate the ExpressCard slot.
2 Carefully slide the ExpressCard module into the slot until it clicks into place.

Do not force it into the slot.

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✍

If the module or adapter does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.

Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the ExpressCard module manufacturer.

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Removing an ExpressCard Module

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

To remove an ExpressCard module

✍

To remove an ExpressCard module when your computer is off, skip steps 1 to 4.

1 Double-click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar.
2 Select the hardware you want to unplug.
3 Click Stop.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the ExpressCard module.
5 Push in the ExpressCard module toward the computer so that the module pops out.
6 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard module and pull it out of the slot.

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Using the Memory Stick Media

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

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Before You Use the Memory Stick Media

The Memory Stick slot on your computer can accommodate both standard- and Duo-size media and supports Memory Stick
PRO and Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo formats with high speed data transfer and large data capacity capabilities.

✍

You can insert a Duo-size Memory Stick media directly into the Memory Stick slot without using a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

!

Before using a Memory Stick Micro (M2) media, be sure to insert it into an M2 Standard-size or M2 Duo-size Adaptor. If you insert the media directly

into the Memory Stick slot without the Adaptor, you may not be able to remove it from the slot.

For the latest information about the Memory Stick media, visit the Memory Stick Web site at http://www.memorystick.com/en/.

!

Your computer has been tested and found compatible with Sony branded Memory Stick media with capacity of up to 16 GB that are available as of

January 2008. However, not all Memory Stick media that meet the same specifications as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

Inserting a Memory Stick media with multiple conversion adapters is not guaranteed of compatibility.

MagicGate is the general name of the copyright protection technology developed by Sony. Use a Memory Stick media with the MagicGate logo to use

this feature.

Except for your personal use, it is against the copyright law to use any audio and/or image data you recorded without prior consent from the respective

copyright holders. Accordingly, Memory Stick media with such copyrighted data can be used only within the law.

The Memory Stick slot on your computer does not support 8-bit parallel data transfer (high speed data transfer).

The Memory Stick Micro media in an M2 Duo-size Adaptor may not operate properly if it is additionally inserted into a Memory Stick Duo Adaptor.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Inserting a Memory Stick Media

To insert a Memory Stick media

1 Locate the Memory Stick slot.
2 Hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the Memory Stick slot.
3 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place.

The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and the contents on the Memory Stick media are

displayed. If nothing appears on the desktop, click Start, Computer, and double-click the Memory Stick media icon.

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!

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

or the Memory Stick media, do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot if you cannot insert it smoothly.

Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the slot. Improper insertion of the media may damage both your computer and the media.

To view the contents on the Memory Stick media

1 Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window.
2 Double-click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the Memory Stick media.

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To format a Memory Stick media

The Memory Stick media has been formatted in the factory default setting and is ready for use.
If you want to reformat the media with your computer, follow these steps.

!

Be sure to use the device that is designed to format the media and supports the Memory Stick media when formatting the media.

Formatting the Memory Stick media erases the entire data on the media. Before formatting the media, make sure that it does not contain your valuable

data.

Do not remove the Memory Stick media from the slot while formatting the media. This could cause a malfunction.

1 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place.
2 Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window.
3 Right-click the Memory Stick media icon and select Format.
4 Click Restore device defaults.

!

The size of the allocation unit and file system may change.

Do not select NTFS from the File system drop-down list as it may cause a malfunction.

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✍

The formatting process will be completed more quickly if you select Quick Format in Format options.

5 Click Start.
6 Follow the on-screen instructions.

!

It may take time to format the Memory Stick media depending on the media.

Using Your VAIO Computer

Removing a Memory Stick Media

To remove a Memory Stick media

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

The Memory Stick media ejects.

3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot.

!

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

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

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

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Using Other Memory Cards

In addition to the Memory Stick slot and the ExpressCard slot, your computer is equipped with an SD memory card slot. You
can use this slot to transfer data among digital cameras, camcorders, music players, and other audio/video devices.

Before You Use Memory Cards

The SD memory card slot on your computer supports the following memory cards:

❑ SD memory card
❑ SDHC memory card
❑ MultiMediaCard (MMC)

For the latest information on compatible memory cards, see Sony Support Information (page 222) to visit the appropriate
support Web site.

!

Your computer has been tested and found compatible only with major memory card media available as of January 2008. However, not all memory card

media that meet the same specifications as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility.

Always insert the correct memory card into the SD memory card slot.

SD memory cards with capacity of up to 2 GB and SDHC memory cards with capacity of up to 16 GB have been tested and found compatible with your

computer.

The SD memory card slot on your computer does not support the high-speed data transfer feature of the SD memory card and SDHC memory card.

Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adapter of a different type into the SD memory card slot. An incompatible memory card or

memory card adapter may cause difficulty in removing from the slot and can cause damage to your computer.

Use care when inserting or removing a memory card from the SD memory card slot. Do not force the memory card in or out of the slot.

Inserting a Memory Card

To insert a memory card

1 Locate the SD memory card slot.
2 Hold the memory card with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the memory card slot.

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3 Carefully slide the memory card into the slot until it clicks into place.

Do not force the card into the slot.

✍

If the memory card does not go into the slot easily, remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction.

Removing a Memory Card

!

Do not remove a memory card while the Media Access indicator light is on. If you do, the card or its data may become damaged.

To remove a memory card

1 Check that the Media Access indicator light is off.
2 Push in the memory card toward the computer.

The memory card ejects.
3 Pull the memory card out of the slot.

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Using the Internet

Setting Up a Dial-up Internet Connection

Before you can connect to the Internet, you need to connect your computer to a telephone line with a telephone cable (not
supplied) and have an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

To connect a telephone cable

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

✍

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

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

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

To set up a dial-up connection to the Internet

1 Click Start and Control Panel.
2 Click Connect to the Internet under Network and Internet.

The Connect to the Internet window appears.
3 Click Dial-up.
4 Follow the on-screen instructions.

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Using Wireless LAN (WLAN)

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

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

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

❑ Wireless WAN models

See the SmartWi Connection Utility Help for setting up wireless LAN and wireless WAN functionalities. For instructions

on how to access the SmartWi Connection Utility Help, see Non-printed Documentation (page 8).
❑ Other models

See the following for setting up wireless LAN functionality.

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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 the Safety Information carefully.

*

WLAN uses the IEEE 802.11a

encryption methods: Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), which is a security protocol, Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2), and Wi-Fi Protected Access

(WPA). Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi-Fi Alliance, both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based, interoperable security

enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi-Fi 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. WPA2, the second generation of WPA, provides stronger data protection and network access control and

is also designed to secure all versions of 802.11 devices, including 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n draft standard, multi-band and multi-

mode. In addition, based on the ratified IEEE 802.11i standard, WPA2 provides government grade security by implementing the National Institute of

Standards and Technology (NIST) FIPS 140-2 compliant AES encryption algorithm and 802.1X-based authentication. WPA2 is backward compatible

with WPA.

* See the online specifications to see whether your model supports the IEEE 802.11a standard and/or the IEEE 802.11n draft standard.

The IEEE 802.11b/g standard is a wireless LAN standard, using the 2.4 GHz bandwidth. The IEEE 802.11g standard provides high-speed

communications, faster than the IEEE 802.11b standard.

The IEEE 802.11a standard is a wireless LAN standard, using the 5 GHz bandwidth, and provides high-speed communications of up to 54 Mbps.

/b/g standard or the IEEE 802.11n* draft standard, which specifies the used technology. The standard includes the

The IEEE 802.11n draft standard is a wireless LAN standard, using the 2.4 or 5 GHz bandwidth, and provides high-speed communications of up to 150

*

(transmission) and up to 300 Mbps* (reception).

Mbps

* Actual communication speed varies depending on your access point settings and so on.

®

Your computer may employ the Intel

standard.

*Employed only on models that support the IEEE 802.11n draft standard.

Next-Gen Wireless-N technology* compliant with the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard and the IEEE 802.11n draft

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Wireless LAN devices using the 2.4 GHz bandwidth and the ones using the 5 GHz bandwidth cannot communicate with each other because the

frequencies are different.

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 use 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.

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Communicating without an Access Point (Ad-hoc)

An ad-hoc network is a network in which a LAN 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.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To communicate without an access point (ad-hoc)

!

You cannot select the 5 GHz bandwidth, which is used for the IEEE 802.11a standard, on ad-hoc networks.

The IEEE 802.11n draft standard, using the 2.4 or 5 GHz bandwidth, is not available on ad-hoc networks.

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.
2 Click the button next to or above your desired wireless option(s) in the VAIO Smart Network window.

Make sure the WIRELESS indicator is lit.
3 Click Start and Control Panel.
4 Click View network status and tasks under Network and Internet.
5 Click Set up a connection or network on the left pane.

The Set up a connection or network window appears.
6 Select an option to specify the ad-hoc network settings and click Next.
7 Follow the on-screen instructions.

✍

See the online specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality, the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard, and/or the IEEE 802.11n

draft standard.

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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 (not supplied), 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.

The access point will select which channel to use on an infrastructure network.

!

For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the access point, see the manual that came with your access point.

Using Your VAIO Computer

To connect to a wireless network

1 Make sure an access point is set up.

See the manual that came with your access point for more information.

2 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.
3 Click the button next to or above your desired wireless option(s) in the VAIO Smart Network window.

Make sure the WIRELESS indicator is lit.

4 Right-click or on the taskbar and select Connect to a network.
5 Select the desired access point and click Connect.

✍

For WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK authentication, you must enter a passphrase. The passphrase is case sensitive and must be between 8 and 63

alphanumeric characters long or up to 64 characters long using numbers from 0 to 9 and letters from A to F.

See the online specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality, the IEEE 802.11a/b/g standard, and/or the IEEE 802.11n

draft standard.

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Stopping Wireless LAN Communication

To stop wireless LAN communication

Click the button next to or above the WLAN icon in the VAIO Smart Network window.

!

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

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Using the Bluetooth Functionality

You can establish wireless communication between your computer and other Bluetooth devices such as another computer
or a mobile phone. You can transfer data between these devices without cables and up to 33 feet (10 meters) range in open
space.

❑ Wireless WAN models

See the SmartWi Connection Utility Help for setting up Bluetooth functionality. For instructions on how to access the

SmartWi Connection Utility Help, see Non-printed Documentation (page 8).
❑ Other models

See the following for setting up Bluetooth functionality.

To start Bluetooth communications

1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch.
2 Click the button next to or above the Bluetooth icon in the VAIO Smart Network window.

Make sure the WIRELESS indicator is lit.

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Notes on using the Bluetooth functionality

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

❑ Obstacles, such as walls, located between devices

❑ Distance between devices

❑ Material used in walls

❑ Proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones

❑ Radio frequency interference and other environmental conditions

❑ Device configuration

❑ Type of software application

❑ Type of operating system

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

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

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

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

not be possible in all situations.
❑ As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, video and audio may go out of synchronization if you play videos on

your computer with audio output from the connected Bluetooth device.

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

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

use of the Bluetooth functionality and wireless communication devices, however, may cause radio interference and result

in poorer communication speeds and distances than the standard values.
❑ The Bluetooth functionality may not work depending on the third party devices or the software version used by third party

companies.
❑ As general characteristics of Bluetooth technology, connecting multiple Bluetooth devices to your computer may cause

bandwidth congestion, resulting in poor performance of the devices.

Bluetooth Security

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

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

✍

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

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

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Using Your VAIO Computer

Communicating with Another Bluetooth Device

You can connect your computer to a Bluetooth device such as another computer, a mobile phone, a PDA, a headset, a
mouse, or a digital camera without the use of any cables.

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To communicate with another Bluetooth device

To communicate with another Bluetooth device, you need first to set up the Bluetooth functionality. For setting up and using
the Bluetooth functionality, search for Bluetooth information using Windows Help and Support. To open Windows Help
and Support, click Start and Help and Support.

Stopping Bluetooth Communications

To stop Bluetooth communications

1 Turn off the Bluetooth device that is communicating with your computer.
2 Click the button next to or above the Bluetooth icon in the VAIO Smart Network window.

Using Peripheral Devices

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

❑ Connecting a Docking Station (page 77)

❑ Connecting External Speakers (page 85)

❑ Connecting an External Display (page 86)

❑ Selecting Display Modes (page 93)

❑ Using the Multiple Monitors Function (page 96)

❑ Connecting an External Microphone (page 99)

❑ Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device (page 100)

❑ Connecting a Printer (page 103)

❑ Connecting an i.LINK Device (page 104)

❑ Connecting to a Network (LAN) (page 106)

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Connecting a Docking Station

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

A docking station is not supplied with your computer and is available as an optional accessory.

Locating Ports on the Docking Station

Using Peripheral Devices

A DC IN indicator

Illuminates when the docking station is powered.

B IN USE indicator (page 82)
C UNDOCK button (page 82)
D DC IN port (page 79)
E Network (Ethernet) port (1000BASE-T / 100BASE-TX /

10BASE-T) (page 106)

F Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0) ports
G DVI-D port

*2

(page 86)

*1

(page 100)

H MONITOR port (page 86)

*1

Support high-/full-/low- speeds.

*2

Available only when your computer is in SPEED mode.

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!

The docking station can be powered only through the AC adapter supplied with your computer. Do not unplug the AC adapter from the docking station

and the AC outlet while using the docking station; this may cause data damage or hardware malfunctions.

Simultaneous use of the HDMI port on your computer and the DVI-D port on the docking station is not possible.

Using Peripheral Devices

Attaching Your Computer to the Docking Station

!

Be sure to install the battery pack before attaching your computer to the docking station.

To attach your computer to the docking station

!

Use the AC adapter supplied with your computer.

Do not move your computer while attached to the docking station; this may detach the docking station and cause damage to both units.

1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.
2 Plug one end of the power cord (1) into the AC adapter (2) and the other end into an AC outlet.
3 Plug the cable connected to the AC adapter (2) into the DC IN port (3) on the docking station (4).

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4 Unfold the docking station cover.

5 Slide open the docking station connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

6 Align the rear bottom corners of the computer with the guides on the docking station.

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7 Gently push down the computer until it clicks into place.

8 Turn on the computer.

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Using Peripheral Devices

Disconnecting Your Computer from the Docking Station

!

Be sure that no devices connected to the docking station are in use before disconnecting your computer.

Do not disconnect your computer from the docking station when the IN USE indicator is lit. Disconnecting the computer while the IN USE indicator is

lit may result in loss of unsaved data or a failure of the computer.

When the battery pack is running out of power, disconnecting your computer from the docking station may result in loss of unsaved data.

Do not disconnect your computer from the docking station during video playback. Be sure to close video playback software before disconnection.

Once you have completed the steps in To disconnect your computer from the docking station (page 83), be sure to remove your computer from the

docking station. Use of the computer still on the docking station may cause unstable operations.

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Using Peripheral Devices

To disconnect your computer from the docking station

1 Press the UNDOCK button (1) and wait until the IN USE indicator (2) turns off.

✍

If the IN USE indicator is unlit, you do not have to press the UNDOCK button.

Pressing the UNDOCK button while your computer is in a power saving mode returns the computer to Normal mode first, and then initiates the

disconnection process.

!

Once you have placed your computer back in Normal mode, be sure to remove your computer from the docking station. Use of the computer still on

the docking station may cause unstable operations.

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2 Lift the computer away from the docking station.

3 Close the docking station connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

Alternatively, you can disconnect the computer from the docking station as follows:

1 Click Start and Undock Computer.
2 Make sure that a message balloon appears and the IN USE indicator turns off; and then lift the computer away from the

docking station.

3 Close the docking station connector cover on the bottom of the computer.

!

It is extremely important to close the docking station connector cover after disconnecting your computer from the docking station. If the cover is left

open, dust may get inside and damage the computer.

✍

To disconnect the docking station completely from AC power, unplug the AC adapter.

Connecting External Speakers

You can enhance the sound quality of your computer by connecting external speakers (not supplied).

To connect external speakers

1 Plug the speaker cable (1) (not supplied) into the headphones jack (2) i.
2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker (3).
3 Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on.

✍

Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use.

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!

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

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Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display (not supplied) to your computer. For example, you can use the computer with a computer
display or a projector.

!

The screen resolution of your external display may change when you switch between the performance modes.

✍

Connect the power cord of your external display after connecting all other cables.

Connecting a Computer Display

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

To connect a computer display

!

The monitor port on your computer is disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station or an external display is connected to the HDMI

port.

The HDMI port on your computer and the DVI-D port on the docking station are available only when your computer is in SPEED mode.

If you connect an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on your computer or a display cable to the DVI-D port on the docking station when your computer is

in STAMINA mode, a confirmation window appears. Follow the on-screen instructions to change the performance mode to SPEED mode.

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

computer or on the docking station.
3 If you want to connect a TFT/DVI monitor, use an HDMI cable (not supplied) and an HDMI to DVI-D adapter (not supplied)

to connect the TFT/DVI monitor to the HDMI port on the computer, or plug the display cable (not supplied) into the DVI-

D port on the docking station.

Using Peripheral Devices

!

Your computer is compliant with the HDCP standard and capable of encrypting the transmission channel of digital video signals for the purpose of

copyright protection, which enables you to play and view a wide variety of copyright protected, high-quality contents. Note that you need to connect an

HDCP-compliant monitor to the HDMI port on your computer or the DVI-D port on the docking station to view the copyright protected contents. If your

computer has a non-compliant monitor connected, you will not be able to play or view any copyright protected contents.

✍

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

24 pins.

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

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Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display

You can connect a multimedia computer display that includes built-in speakers and a microphone either directly to your
computer or via the optional docking station.

To connect a multimedia computer display

!

The monitor port on your computer is disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station or an external display is connected to the HDMI

port.

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

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a TV

You can connect a TV to your computer.

To connect a TV to your computer

!

The HDMI port is available only when your computer is in SPEED mode.

The HDMI port is disabled when an external display is connected to the monitor port.

If you connect an HDMI cable to the HDMI port when your computer is in STAMINA mode, a confirmation window appears. Follow the on-screen

instructions to change the performance mode to SPEED mode.

1 Plug the power cord of your TV into an AC outlet.
2 Plug one end of an HDMI cable (not supplied) to the HDMI port on the computer and the other end to the TV.
3 Switch the input channel of the TV to external input.
4 Set up the TV configuration system.

!

If a device driver other than the one provided by Sony is used, the image will not be displayed and the audio will not be heard. Always use the device

driver provided by Sony for updates.

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✍

See the manual that came with your TV for more information on installation and use.

You can connect the HDMI out to an AV amplifier and audio will be heard through the AV amplifier and then another HDMI cable can be connected from

the AV amplifier to the TV for the display.

If your TV is equipped with an HDMI port and a DVI-D port, we recommend that you use the HDMI port.

The HDMI cable carries both video and audio signals.

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Using Peripheral Devices

To change the sound output device

If you do not hear sound from the device connected to the HDMI port, you need to change the device for sound output.

1 Close all open programs.
2 Click Start and Control Panel.
3 Click Hardware and Sound.
4 Click Manage audio devices under Sound.
5 On the Playback tab, select the desired device for sound output and click Set Default.

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Connecting a Projector

You can connect a projector (for example, the Sony LCD projector) either directly to your computer or via the optional docking
station.

To connect a projector

!

The monitor port on your computer is disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station or an external display is connected to the HDMI

port.

1 Connect the power cord (1) of your projector into an AC outlet.
2 Plug a display cable (2) (not supplied) into the monitor port (3) a on the computer or on the docking station.
3 Plug an audio cable (4) (not supplied) into the headphones jack (5) i on the computer.
4 Plug the display cable and the audio cable into the jack and port on the projector (6).

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Using Peripheral Devices

Selecting Display Modes

You can select which display to be used as the primary monitor when an external display (desktop monitor, etc.) is connected
to your computer.

If you want to work on your computer screen and the external display at the same time, see Using the Multiple Monitors

Function (page 96) for more information.

Using Peripheral Devices

To select a display

!

The monitor port on your computer is disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station or an external display is connected to the HDMI

port.

The screen resolution of your external display may change when you switch between the performance modes.

When using the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (STAMINA mode)

1 Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize.
2 Click Display Settings.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

✍

For selecting a video controller, see Selecting Performance Modes (page 109).

You may not be able to display the same contents on your computer screen and the external display or projector at the same time, depending on the

type of your external display or projector.

Before turning on your computer, turn on the external display.

When using the NVIDIA video controller (SPEED mode)

1 Click Start and Control Panel.
2 Click Additional Options.
3 Click NVIDIA Control Panel.
4 Select the display setup option under Display.
5 Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

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✍

For selecting a video controller, see Selecting Performance Modes (page 109).

You may not be able to display the same contents on your computer screen and the external display or projector at the same time, depending on the

type of your external display or projector.

Before turning on your computer, turn on the external display.

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Using the Multiple Monitors Function

The Multiple Monitors function allows you to distribute portions of your desktop across separate displays. For example, if you
have an external display connected to the monitor port, your computer screen and the external display can function as a
single desktop.

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

✍

Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function.

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

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

return to Normal mode.

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

Set fewer colors or a lower resolution for each display.

Using Peripheral Devices

To select the Multiple Monitors mode

!

The monitor port on your computer is disabled when the computer is attached to the docking station or an external display is connected to the HDMI

port.

The screen resolution of your external display may change when you switch between the performance modes.

When using the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator (STAMINA mode)

1 Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize.
2 Click Display Settings.
3 Follow the on-screen instructions to change the settings.

✍

For selecting a video controller, see Selecting Performance Modes (page 109).

You can also change one of the S button assignments to activate the Multiple Monitors mode with the corresponding S button. To change the S button

assignments, press and hold any S button to display the window for changing the assignment. For details on the S buttons, see Using Special-function

Buttons (page 35).

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

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When using the NVIDIA video controller (SPEED mode)

1 Click Start and Control Panel.
2 Click Adjust screen resolution under Appearance and Personalization.
3 Right-click the number 2 monitor and select Attached.
4 Click OK.

At the confirmation prompt, click Yes.

Using Peripheral Devices

✍

For selecting a video controller, see Selecting Performance Modes (page 109).

You can also change one of the S button assignments to activate the Multiple Monitors mode with the corresponding S button. To change the S button

assignments, press and hold any S button to display the window for changing the assignment. For details on the S buttons, see Using Special-function

Buttons (page 35).

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

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Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting an External Microphone

If you need to use a sound input device (for example, to chat over the Internet), you need to plug in an external microphone
(not supplied).

To connect an external microphone

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

✍

Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use.

Using Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Device

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

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

Connecting a USB Mouse

To connect a USB mouse

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

You can now use your USB mouse (not supplied) (3).

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