Sony XAV-C1 User Manual

®

™

VAIO C1 PictureBook
Computer User Guide

PCG-C1X

®

Notice to Users

© 1999 Sony Electronics Inc. All rights
reserved. This manual and the software
described herein, in whole or in part, may
not be reproduced, transl ated, or reduced
to any machine-readable form without
prior written approval.

SONY ELECTRONICS INC. PROVIDES
NO WARRANTY WITH REGARD TO
THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR
OTHER INFORMA TION CONTAINED
HEREIN AND HEREBY EXPRESSLY
DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR
PURPOSE WITH REGARD TO THIS
MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE, OR SUCH
OTHER INFORMATION. IN NO EVENT
SHALL SONY ELECTRONICS INC. BE
LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL, OR SPECIAL
DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON
TORT, CONTRACT, OR OTHERWISE,
ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION
WITH THIS MANUAL, THE SOFTWARE,
OR OTHER INFORMATION
CONTAINED HEREIN OR THE USE
THEREOF.

Sony Electronics Inc. reserves the right to
make any modification to this manual or
the information contained herein at any
time without notice. The software
described herein is governed by the terms
of a separate user license agreement.

As an ENERGY STAR
Partner, Sony Corporation
has determined that this

E

product meets the

S

TAR 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 other
office equipment. The program backs the
development and dissemination of
products with functions that effectively

NERGY

reduce energy consumption. It is an open
system in which business proprietors can
participate voluntarily. The targeted
products are office equipment such as
computers, displays, printers, facsimiles
and copiers. Their standards and logos are
uniform among participating nations.

E

NERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.

Sony, VAIO, the VAIO logo, PictureBook,
DVgate, i.LINK, Mavica, and PictureGear
and are trademarks of Sony Corporation.
ImageStation and Sony VAIO Direct are
service marks of Sony Electronics Inc.
Windows and th e Windows 98 logo are
registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. Intel, MMX, and Pentium are
trademarks of Intel Corporation.

All other trademarks are trademarks of
their respective owners.

Safety Information

Owner’s Record

The model number and serial number are
located on the bottom of your VAIO C1
PictureBook Computer. Record the serial
number in the space provided here. Refer
to the model and serial number when you
call your Sony Service Center.

Model Number: PCG-C1X
Serial Number:________________________

WARNING

❏

To prevent fire or shock hazard, do
not expose your notebook computer
to rain or moisture.

❏

To avoid electrical shock, do not open
the cabinet. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel only.

❏

Never install modem or telephone
wiring during a lightning storm.

❏

Never install telephone jacks in wet
locations unless the jack is specifically
designed for wet locations.

❏

Never touch uninsulated telephone
wire or terminals unless the telephone
line has been disconnected at the
network interface.

❏

Use caution when installing or
modifying telephone lines.

❏

Avoid using the modem during an
electrical storm.

❏

Do not use the modem or a telephone
to report a gas leak in the vicinity of
the leak.

❏

A socket outlet should be as close as
possible to the unit and easily
accessible.

AVERTISSEMENT

❏

Pour prévenir tout risque d’incendie
ou d’électrocution, garder cet appareil
à l’abri de la pluie et de l’humidité.

❏

Pour prévenir tout risque
d’électrocution, ne pas ouvrir le boîtier.
Confier l’entretien de cet appareil
exclusivement à un personnel qualifié.

❏

L’appareil doit être le plus près
possible d’une prise murale pour en
faciliter l’accès.

Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY
Model No: PCG-C1X
Responsible Party:

Sony Electronics Inc.

Address:

1 Sony Drive

Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Telephone No.: 201-930-6970
This device complies with Part 15 of

the FCC rules. Operation is subject
to the following two conditions: (1)
This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference that
may cause undesired operation.

This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio
communications.

However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the
following measures:

❏

Reorient or relocate the receiving
antenna.

❏

Increase the separation between the
equipment and the receiver.

❏

Connect the equipment into an outlet
on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.

❏

Consult the dealer or an experienced
radio/TV technician for help.

You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in
this manual could void your authority to
operate this equipment.

Only peripherals (computer input/output
devices, terminals, printers, etc.) that
comply with FCC Class B limits may be
attached to this computer product.
Operation with non-compliant peripherals
is likely to result in interference to radio
and television reception.

All cables used to connect peripherals must
be shielded and grounded. Operation with
cables, connected to peripherals, that are
not shielded and grounded, may result in
interference to radio and tel e vision
reception.

FCC Part 68

This equipment complies with Part 68 of
the FCC rules. On the bottom of this
equipment is a label that contains, among
other information, the FCC equivalence
number (REN) for this equipment. If
requested, this information must be
provided to the telephone company.

This modem uses the USOC RJ-11
telephone jack.

The REN is used to determine the quantity
of devices which may be connected to the
telephone line. Excessive RENs on the
telephone line may result in the devices not
ringing in response to an incoming call. In
most, but not all areas, the sum of the RENs
should not exceed five (5.0). T o be certain of
the number of devices that may be
connected to the line, as determined by the
total RENs, contact the telephone company
to determine the maximum REN for the
calling area.

If the terminal equipment (PictureBook
Computer PCG-C1X) causes harm to the
telephone network, the telephone company
will notify you in advance that temporary
discontinuance of service may be required.
But if advance notice is not practical, the
telephone company will notify the
customer as soon as possible. Also, you
will be advised of your right to file a
complaint with the FCC if you believe it is
necessary.

The telephone company may make
changes in its facilities, equipment,
operations or procedures that could affect
the operations of the equipment. If this
happens, the telephone company will
provide advance notice in order for you to
make the necessary modifications in order
to maintain uninterrupted service.

If trouble is experienced with this
equipment (VAIO C1 PictureBook
Computer PCG-C1X), please contact
1-888-4SONYPC (1-888-476-6972), or write
to the Sony Customer Information Center,
One Sony Drive, Park Ridge, NJ 07656, for
repair and/or warranty information. If the
trouble is causing harm to the telephone
network, the telephone company may
request you to remove the equipment from
the network until the problem is resolved.

Repair of this equipment should be made
only by a Sony Service Center or Sony
authorized agent. For the Sony Service
Center nearest you, call 1-888-4SONYPC
(1-888-476-6972).

This equipment cannot be used on public
coin service provided by the telephone
company. Connection to Party Line Service
is subject to state and possible provincial
tariffs. (Contact the state or provincial
utility service commission, public service
commission or corporation commission for
information.)

Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 (United States)

The T elephone Consumer Pr otection Act of
1991 makes it unlawful for any person to
use a computer or other electronic device to
send any message via a telephone facsimile
machine unless such message clearly
contains, in a margin at the top or bottom
of each transmitted page or on the first
page of the transmission, the date and time
it is sent and an identification of the
business, other entity, or individual
sending the message, and the telephone
number of the sending machine or such
business, other entity, or individual.

In order to program this information into
your facsimile machine, see your fax
software documentation.

Telephone Consumer Guidelines (Canada)

Please refer to your telephone director y
under ‘Privacy Issues’ and/or ‘Terms of
Service.’ For more detailed information,
please contact:

CRTC
Terrasses de la Chaudiére, Tour centrale 1
promenade du Portage, 5 étage, Hull PQ
K1A 0N2.

This Class B digital apparatus complies
with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la class B est
conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

DISPOSAL OF LITHIUM ION BATTERY

You can return your unwanted lithium ion
batteries to your nearest Sony Service
Center or Factory Service Center.

In some areas the disposal of lithium

✍

ion batteries in household or
business trash may be prohibited.

For the Sony Service Center nearest you,
call 1-888-476-6972 in the United States, or
1-800-961-7669 in Canada.

!

Do not handle damaged or leaking
lithium ion batteries.

!

Ne pas manipuler les batteries au
lithium-ion qui fuient ou sont
endommagées.

Danger of explosion if battery is

!

incorrectly replaced. Replace only
with the same or equivalent type
recommended by the
manufacturer. Discard used
batteries according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.

Une batterie non conforme

!

présente un danger d’explosion.
La remplacer seulement par une
batterie identique ou de type
équivalent recommandé par le
fabricant. Évacuer les batteries
usées selon les directives du
fabricant.

The battery pack used in this

!

device may present a fire or
chemical burn hazard if mistreated.
Do not disassemble, heat above
212°F(100°C) or incinerate.
Dispose of used battery promptly.
Keep away from children.
La manutention incorrecte du

!

module de batterie de cet appareil
présente un risque d’incendie ou
de brûlures chimiques. Ne pas
démonter, incinérer ou exposer à
une température de plus de 100°C.
Évacuer promptement la batterie
usée. Garder hors de portée des
enfants.

INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE

NOTICE: The Industry Canada label
identifies certified equipment. This
certification means that the equipment
meets certain telecommunications network
protective, operational and safety
requirements as prescribed in the
appropriate Terminal Equipment Technical
Requirements document(s). The
Department does not guarantee the
equipment will operate to the user’s
satisfaction.

Before installing this equipment, users
should ensure that it is permissible to be
connected to the facilities of the local
telecommunications company. The
equipment must also be installed using an
acceptable method of connection.

The customer should be aware that
compliance with the above conditions may
not prevent degradation of service in some
situations.

Repairs to certified equipment should be
coordinated by a r epresen tative de signated
by the supplier. Eq uipment malfunctions
or any repairs or alterations made by the
user to this equipment may give the
telecommunications company cause to
request the user to disconnect.

Users should ensure for their own
protection that the electrical ground
connections of the power utility, telephone
lines and internal metallic water pipe
system, if present, are connected together.
This precaution may be particularly
important in rural areas.

Caution: Users should not attempt to make
such connections themselves, but should
contact the appropriate electric inspection
authority, or electrician, as appropriate.

NOTICE: The Ringer Equivalence Number
(REN) assigned to each terminal device
provides an indication of the maximum
number of terminals allowed to be
connected to a telephone interface. The
termination on an interface may consist of

any combination of devices subject only to
the requirement that the sum of the Ringer
Equivalence Number of all the devices
does not exceed 5.

AVIS DE L’INDUSTRIE CANADA

AVIS: L’étiquette d’Industrie Canada
identifie le matériel homologué.

Cette étiquette certifie que le matériel est
conforme aux normes de protection,
d’exploitation et de sécurité des réseaux de
télécommunications, comme le prescrivent
les documents concernant les exigences
techniques relatives au matériel terminal.
Le Ministère n’assure toutefois pas que le
matériel fonctionnera à la satisfaction de
l’utilisateur.

Avant d’installer ce matériel, l’utilisateur
doit s’assurer qu’il est permis de le
raccorder aux installations de l’entreprise
locale de télécommunication. Le matériel
doit également être installé en suivant une
méthode acceptée de raccordement.
L’abonné ne doit pas oublier qu’il est
possible que la conformité aux conditions
énoncées ci-dessus n’empêche pas la
dégradation du service dans certaines
situations.

Les réparations de matériel homologué
doivent être coordonnées par un
représentant désigné par le fournisseur.
L’entreprise de télécommunications peut
demander à l’utilisateur de débrancher un
appareil à la suite de réparations ou de
modifications effectuées par l’utilisateur ou
à cause de mauvais fonctionnement.

Pour sa propre protection, l’utilisate ur doi t
s’assurer que tous les fils de mise à la terre
de la source d’énergie électrique, des lignes
téléphoniques et des canalisations d’eau
métalliques, s’il y en a, sont raccordés
ensemble. Cette précaution est
particulièrement importante dans les
régions rurales.

Avertissement: L’utilisateur ne doit pas
tenter de faire ces raccordements lui-même;
il doit avoir recours à un service
d’inspection des installations électriques,
ou à un électricien, selon le cas.

A VIS: L’indice d’équivalence de la sonnerie
(IES) assigné à chaque dispositif terminal
indique le nombre maximal de terminaux
qui peuvent être raccordés à une interface.

La terminaison d’une interface
téléphonique peut consister en une
combination de quelques dispositifs, à la
seule condition que la somme d’indices
d’équivalence de la sonnerie de tous les
dispositifs n‘excède pas 5.

Contents

Welcome

Ergonomic Considerations.......................................................... ...2

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Locating the Controls and Connectors.........................................5

Front.......................................................................................................5

Left ......................................................................................................... 6

Right ....................................................................................................... 7

Bottom ...................................................................................................7

Connecting a Power Source ...........................................................8

Using the AC Adapter.........................................................................8

Using Battery Power............................................................................9

Starting Your C1 PictureBook Computer...................................12

Shutting Down Your C1 PictureBook Computer...................... 13

Registering Windows

Registering Your Computer.........................................................15

Using the Keyboard......................................................... ..............16

Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key ............18

Indicators.............................................................................................19

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key..............................20

Using the Pointing Device............................................................21

Using the Floppy Disk Drive .......................................................23

Using PC Cards..............................................................................25

Using Infrared Communication Devices....................................28

Using Power Saving Modes .........................................................30

Normal Mode ..................... ................................................................30

System Suspend Mode......................................................................30

System Hibernation Mode................................................................31

®

98.............................................................14

ix

x

VAIO PictureBook Notebook User Guide

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Connecting a Phone Line ..............................................................34

Connecting a Printer......................................................................35

Connecting an External Display...................................................36

Connecting an External USB Mouse............................................38

Connecting the CD-ROM Drive...................................................39

Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder...........................42

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen.............................43

To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen .................................43

Notebook Setup Tabs ........................................................................44

Controlling Power Management..................................................45

Power Management Profiles............................................................45

Power Management Commands.....................................................46

Displaying Battery Information ...................................................48

Activating BatteryScope....................................................................48

Battery Icon Descriptions..................................................................49

Displaying Detailed Battery Information.......................................49

Starting Your Favorite Software with Programmable Power

Key (PPK) Setup .............................................................................50

Using the Programmable Power Key with Other Keys ...............51

Selecting the Display Mode ..........................................................52

Using the Dual Display Function.................................................53

Selecting dual display mode ............................................................53

Setting the colors and resolution for each display........................ 54

Customizing the virtual desktop.....................................................54

Releasing the dual display setting...................................................54

Changing the Pointing Device settings.......................................55

Using the Press-select function........................................................55

Contents

Using the Smart Utilities

Using Smart Capture................................................................ .... .57

Capturing a still image......................................................................57

To send a still image via e-mail using a MAPI-compliant
e-mail software such as Microsoft
To send a still image via e-mail if you use America Online

or other non-MAPI-compliant e-mail software.............................61

Capturing a video clip.......................................................................61

To play back captured video clips ...................................................63

To send a video clip via e-mail using a MAPI-compliant
e-mail software such as Microsoft
To send a video clip via e-mail if you use America Online

or other non-MAPI-compliant e-mail software.............................65

®

Outlook® 98..........................60

®

Outlook® 98..........................64

Using Smart Write .................................... ..... .... ............................67

Using Smart Publisher ........................................................ ..... .... .68

Using Smart Label..........................................................................69

Getting Help

Troubleshooting ............................................................................ 73

Using the System and Application Recovery CDs....................80

Using the System Recovery CD(s)...................................................80

Using the Application Recovery CD(s)...........................................82

xi

®

®

Notes on Use ......................................................................83

Limited Warranty Statement

C1 PictureBook Computer Warranty..............................................89

GARANTIE RESTREINTE................................................................91

Battery Limited Warranty.................................................................93

GARANTIE RESTREINTE................................................................93

Index...................................................................................95

xii

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of the VAIO® C1 PictureBook™
Computer with integrated digital camera. Sony has combined leading­edge technology in audio, video, computing, and communications to
provide you with state-of-the-art personal computing.

This manual offers a quick introduction and reference to your Sony
computer.

❑

Using Your VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer shows you how to use
the standard components of your system.

❑

Connecting Peripheral Devices explains how you can add
functionality by connecting various peripherals.

❑

Getting Help explains the support options available to you and
offers basic troubleshooting tips.

❑

Notes on Use provides facts and advice about using your notebook
computer .

❑

Limited Warranty Statement provides your product warranty
statement and explains how to extend your warranty for an
additional nine months.

1

2

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Ergonomic Considerations

Y ou will be usi ng your C1 PictureBook Computer as a por table device in a
variety of environments. Whenever possible, you should attempt to
apply the following ergonomic considerations to both stationary and
portable environments.

Computer positioned
directly in front of you

Arms
at desk
level

Wrists relaxed
and flat

❑

Position of your computer – Place the computer directly in front of
you as you work. Keep your forearms horizontal, with your wrists in
a natural, comfortable position while using the keyboard, pointing
device, or external mouse. Let your upper arms hang naturally at
your sides. Take breaks during sessions with your computer.
Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons.

Welcome

❑

Furniture and posture – Sit in a chair with good back support and
armrests. Adjust the level of the chair so your feet ar e flat o n the floor.
A footrest may make you more comfortable. Sit in a relaxed, upright
posture and avoid slouching forward or leaning far backward.

❑

Viewing an gle 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 and
by adjusting the brightness settings of the display.

❑

Lighting – Choose a location where windows and lights do not create
glare and reflection on the display. Use indirect lighting to avoid
bright spots on the display. You can also purchase accessories for
your display that help reduce glare. Proper lighting adds to your
comfort and work effectiveness.

❑

Placement of 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 LCD screen.

3

4

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

This section describes how to start using your computer and how to use
your computer ’s internal and external devices, such as the pointing
device and floppy disk drive.

Locating the Controls and Connectors

Front

Built-in camera Battery indicator

1

Microphone Hard disk drive indicator

2

LCD screen Information indicator

3

Keyboard Num Lock indicator

4

Pointing device Caps Lock indicator

5

Left/Center/Right button Scroll Lock indicator

6

Power indicator Speaker

7

8

9
10
11
12
13
14

5

6

Left

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

1 6

Power switch Headphone connector

7

2

i.LINK™ (IEEE1394)

S200

3

USB connector

4

Monitor connector

5

Microphone connector

Infrared port

8

CAPTURE button

9

LCD lock lever

Programmable Power Key (PPK)

10

Right

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

7

1 2

Phone line jack (page 34)

Bottom

1 2

Battery release lever (page 11)

3

Battery connector

PC card slot (page 25)

DC In connector (page 8)

8

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Power Source

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

Using the AC Adapter

1

Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter into the DC In connector on
the computer.

2

Pull the prong on the AC adapter upwards and plug it into an AC
outlet.

Notebook computer

AC adapter
(supplied)

DC In

To remove the AC adapter

1

Unplug the AC adapter from the AC outlet and the adapter cable
from the DC In connector on the computer.

2

Align the adapter cable with the groove on the AC adapter and wrap
the cable around the AC adapter.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

9

Using Battery Power

You can use a battery pack as a source of power. The PCGA-BP11 battery
pack that comes with your computer is not fully charged at the time of
purchase. Follow the steps below to insert and charge the battery pack.

You can also purchase the high-capacity PCGA-BP12 battery pack as a separate option.

✍

See “Using Power Saving Modes” on page 30 for power management information.

To insert the battery pack

Align the grooves on the battery with the notches on the back of the
computer, and then slide the battery towards the computer until it clicks
into place.

Grooves

10

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

To charge the battery pack

1

Connect the AC adapter to the computer.

2

Insert the battery pack.

The computer automatically charges the battery (the battery indicator
light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges). When the
battery is 85% full, the battery indicator light turns off. This process takes
approximately one and one half hours. To charge the battery completely,
continue charging for an additional hour.

The battery indicator above the keyboard indicates the status of the
battery pack.

Battery pack
(supplied)

Battery indicator

Battery Indicator
Light Status Meaning

On The computer is using battery power.
Single blink The battery is running out of power.
Double blink The battery is charging.
Off The computer is using AC power.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Both the battery and power indicators blink when the battery is running out of power.

✍

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

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

You can extend battery life by changing the power management modes in the PowerPanel
utility. See “Using Power Saving Modes” on page 30.

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

The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source. When
battery life is nearly depleted, the battery indicator starts flashing.

For some software applications and some peripheral devices, your computer may not enter
system hibernation mode when the 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 system suspend or system hibernation.

To remove the battery pack

1

Turn off the computer.

11

2

Slide the release lever to the

UNLOCK

position and slide the battery away

from the computer.

Battery release lever

You may lose data if you remove the battery pack while the computer is on and not

✍

connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer is in System
Suspend mode.

12

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Starting Your C1 PictureBook Computer

1

Slide the LCD lock lever in the direction of the arrow, and lift the
cover.

Camera

LCD lock lever

Be careful not to grab the camera lens when lifting the cover.

✍

2

Slide the power switch on the left side toward the front of the
computer until the green power indicator light turns on.

Power switch

Power indicator

If you hold the power switch in the On position for more than four seconds, the

✍

computer turns off.

3

If necessary, adjust the brightness controls for the LCD display. To
decrease the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the down or left ar r ow
key. To increase the brightness, press Fn+F5 and then the up or right
arrow key.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Shutting Down Your C1 PictureBook Computer

! To avoid potential loss of data, follow these steps to shut down your computer.

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Click Shut Down at the bottom of the Start menu to display the Shut
Down Windows dialog box.

3

Select Shut down.

4

Click OK.

13

Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents.

✍

5

W ait for your computer to turn of f automatically. The power indicator
turns off.

6

Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer.

If you are unable to shut down your computer using the steps described above, press the

✍

Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys at the same time to restart the computer. If you are unable to restart
the computer in this way, you can slide the power switch forward and hold for four seconds.
This operation may result in loss of any unsaved data.

During a period of inactivity, you can conserve battery life by using System Suspend mode.
See “Controlling Power Management” on page45.

Be sure to turn the camera lens toward you before closing the cover.

✍

14

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Registering Windows® 98

The first time you turn on your computer, you need to complete a few
steps to register and configure the Windows 98 software that is already
installed on your computer.

You must register Windows 98 before you can use the computer.

✍

The on-screen instructions guide you through the registration and
configuration process. The following is an overview of the process.

1

Gathering information:

❑

Enter your name.

❑

Read and accept the License Agreement.

❑

Enter your Certificate of Authenticity number located on the
cover of the Microsoft Windows 98

2

Windows 98 setup: click the Finish button on the Windows 98 Setup
Wizard screen.

3

Selecting your computer settings: if necessary, change the Time Zone,
Date and Time on the Date/Time Properties screen.

Getting Started

manual.

4

Registering your computer: for details on registering your computer,
see “Registering Your Computer” on page 15. You can also sign up
for your 100 free hours of Internet service at this time.

5

Learning about Windows 98:

❑

If you choose, take the tour of Windows 98.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

15

Registering Your Computer

You can take advantage of Sony’s commitment to quality customer
support and receive the following benefits by registering your computer
with Sony:

❑

Extended Limited Warranty – Protect your investment. Extend your
Warranty nine months for a total of 12 months from the original date
of purchase when you register your computer.

❑

Express service – Provides convenient resolution of problems.

❑

Free Internet access – Use the Internet for up to 100 free hours when
you sign up with GTE (no credit card necessary). Free access expires
100 hours or 60 days after signing up, whichever occurs first.

If you have not already registered, follow these steps to use your
computer’s online registration service.

You must connect your phone line before using any online services, including the online

✍

registration service. See “Connecting a Phone Line” on page34.

1

Click the registration icon on the VAIO desktop.

2

Enter the information requested on the first online registration form.
Press the Tab key to move from box to box.

3

Click the Next button to advance to the next form.

4

Complete the remaining forms by clicking the Next button each time
you complete a form.

The computer automatically transfers your registration information usin g
your built-in modem and a toll-free telephone number.

16

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Using the Keyboard

Your keyboard is very similar to a typewriter’s, but the keyboard has
additional keys that perform specific computer-related tasks.

Escape Key Function keys Print Screen key

Correction keys

Shift key

Ctrl key

Fn key

Windows 98 key

Alt key

Numeric keypad area Navigation keys

Applications key

Fn key

Key Description

Numeric keypad
area

Contains the keys found on a typical calculator.
Use the numeric keypad area to type numbers or
to perform mathematical calculations such as
addition and subtraction. Numbers appear on the
front beveled edge of the numeric keys. Note that
you must press the Num Lock key to activate the
numeric keypad. (When you do so, the Num Lo ck
light will be on.)

Navigation keys Several keys are devoted to moving the cursor on

the screen (the four arrow keys which also
function as the Home, End, Page Up, and Page
Down keys).

Correction keys The Insert, Backspace, and Delete keys enable you

to make corrections in your documents.

Function keys The twelve function keys along the top of the

keyboard are used to perform designated tasks.
For example, in many applications, F1 is the Help
key. The task associated with each function key
may vary from one application to the next.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Key Description

Escape key The Esc (Escape) key is used to cancel commands.
Print Screen key The Print Screen key takes an electronic snapshot

of the screen and places it in the W indows
Clipboard. You can then paste the screen shot into
a document and print it.

Operator keys Several keys are always used with at least one

other key: Ctrl, Alt, and Shift. When held down
with another key, the Ctrl (Control) and Alt
(Alternate) keys offer another way to give
commands. For example, in many applications,
instead of choosing the Save command from a
menu, you can hold down Ctrl and press S
(referred to as Ctrl+S). The Shift key operates the
same way as on a typewriter; it’s used to produce
capital letters or special symbols such as @ and $.

Windows 98 key The key with the Windows logo displays the

Windows 98 Start menu; it’s the equivalent of
clicking the Start button on the task bar. See
“Combinations and Functions with the Windows
98 Key” on page 18.

Fn key The Fn key is used in combination with other keys

to issue commands. The Fn keys at the left and
right sides both work the same. See
“Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key”
on page 20.

Applications key The Applications key displays a shortcut menu of

context-sensitive choices; pressing this key is the
equivalent of clicking the right mouse button.

17

18

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Windows 98 Key

Combination Function

+ F1 Displays Windows Help.
+ Tab Switches the selected button on the taskbar.
+ E Displays Windows Explorer.
+ F Displays the Windows Find: All Files window

to find a file or folder. This is the equivalent of
selecting Find and then Files or Folders from
the Start menu.

+ Ctrl + F Displays the Windows Find: Computer

window where you can locate other
computers. This is the equivalent of selecting
Find and then Computer from the Start menu.

+ M Minimizes all displayed windows.

Shift + + M Returns all minimized windows to their

previous size.

+ R Displays the Run window. This is the

equivalent of selecting Run from the Start
menu.

Fn + + Insert Displays the Properties window. This is the

equivalent of double-clicking the System icon
in the Control Panel.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Indicators

Indicator Function

Information Turns on when the PPK Timer is set. Turns off

when the PPK Timer is not set or the PPK Timer
setting is inactive. (Such as when the computer’s
power is off or in System Hibernation mode.)

Battery Indicates the status of the battery attached at the

rear of the computer.

Power Lights when the power to the computer is turned

on. Flashes in System Suspend mode.
Turns off when the computer is in System
Hibernation mode or powered off.

Light On Off

Hard disk Data is being read from or

written to the hard drive.
Do not enter System
Suspend mode or turn off
the computer when this
indicator light is on.

Num Lock The number keys area in

the numeric keypad are
active.

Caps Lock The letters appear in

uppercase as you type. The
Shift key lowers the case of
typed letters when Caps
Lock is on.

Scroll Lock The screen scrolls

differently. (Exactly how it
scrolls depends on the
specific application. It has
no effect in many
applications.)

The hard drive is not being
accessed.

The alphanumeric character
keys in the keypad area are
active.

Letters appear in lower case
as you type (unless you hold
down the Shift key).

Information moves across
the display normally.

19

20

➜

➜

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key

Combinations/
Feature

Fn+ (ESC)
System Suspend

Fn+ (F2)
Display power status

Fn+ (F3)
Speaker switch

Fn+ (F4)
Speaker volume

Fn+ (F5)
Brightness control

Fn+ (F7)
Switch to the
external display

Fn+ (F12)
System Hibernation

Fn+D
Video standby

Functions

Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a
power management state. To return the system
to the active state, press any key or press the
power switch on your computer.

Displays the power status, as in the example
below:

Using AC
power

Charging a
battery pack

Toggles the built-in speaker off and on.

Adjusts the built-in speaker volume.
To increase volume, press Fn+F4, then or ➜.

➜

➜

To decrease volume, press Fn+F4, then or .
Adjusts the brightness of the LCD.

To increase light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then

or ➜.

➜

T o decre ase light intensity, press Fn+F5 and then

➜

or .

Toggles through the LCD, external display
(connected to the Monitor connector), and
both LCD and external display.

Only LCD

LCD and external display

Only external display

Provides for the lowest level of power
consumption. When you execute this command,
the state of the system and state of the
peripheral devices are written to the hard disk
and the system power is turned off. To return
the system to the original state, use the power
switch to turn on power.

Turns off the LCD in order to save power.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

21

Using the Pointing Device

The pointing device on the keyboard allows you to point to, select, drag,
and scroll objects on the screen.

Pointer

Pointing device

Right buttonLeft button

Center button

Action Description

Point Press the pointing device in a direction to place the pointer on

an item or object.
Click Press the left button once.
Double-click Press the left button twice.
Right-click Press the right button once. In many applications, this action

displays a shortcut menu of context-sensitive choices.
Drag Press the pointing device in a direction to place the pointer on

an item or object. While holding the left button, press the

pointing device, then release it at the desired point.
Scroll Press the pointing device while pressing the center button.

The scroll function is available only with applications that support a scroll pointing device feature.

✍

22

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

To replace the pointing device cover

You can take off the pointing device cover and replace it with the
additional pointing device cover supplied with your computer.

Pointing device cover (supplied)

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Using the Floppy Disk Drive

You can connect the floppy disk drive to the USB connector on your
computer.

To connect the floppy disk drive

Plug one end of the USB cable into the USB connector on the
computer and the other end into the USB connector on the floppy disk
drive. When using the disk drive, the VAIO logo should face up.

Floppy disk drive
(supplied)

23

USB cable (supplied)

To insert a diskette

1

Hold the diskette with the label side facing up.

2

Gently push the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.

Diskette

Floppy disk drive

24

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

To remove a diskette

❑

When you finish using a diskette, wait until the LED indicator turns
off and then press the Eject button to remove the diskette.

Eject button

LED indicator

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Using PC Cards

Your computer includes a PC card slot. PC cards allow you to connect
portable external devices, such as a CD-ROM drive, or to connect to a
network.

The PC card slot can accommodate one Type II PC card. This slot is compatible with Card

✍

Bus and ZV (Zoomed Video) port.
Some PC cards may require that you disable idle devices when using the PC card. You can

use Sony Notebook Setup to disable devices. See “Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup
Screen” on page 43 for details.

Be sure to use the most recent software driver provided by the PC card manufacturer.
If an “!” mark appears on the Device Manager tab in the System Properties dialog, remove

the software driver and then reinstall it.
You may not be able to use some PC cards or some of the functions of a PC card with this

computer.

25

To insert a PC card

You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC card.

✍

1

Pull the PC card release button up away from the computer and push
it in towards the computer.

26

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

2

Remove the PC card slot protector.

3

Insert the PC card into the PC card slot, front label facing up. Gently
push the card into the slot until the card is fixed into the connector.
The release button comes out.

PC card

Do not force a card into the slot. It may damage the connector pins.

✍

If you have difficulty inserting a card, check that you are inserting the card with the correct
orientation.

See the manual that came with your PC card for more information on its use.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

For some PC cards, if you alternate between normal power operation and the system
suspend or system hibernation power management modes while the card is inserted, you
may find that a device connected to your system is not recognized. Reboot your system to
correct the problem.

To remove a PC card

1

Close any applications that use the PC card. Otherwise data may be
lost.

2

Click the PC card icon in the taskbar and close the card.

3

Pull the PC card release button up and press it in towards the
computer.

Release button

27

4

Gently grasp the card and pull it out.

5

Insert the PC card slot protector into the empty slot.

28

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Using Infrared Communication Devices

Your computer includes an infrared port, located on the left side of the
computer. You can use this port to communicate with other infrared­equipped devices with compatible protocols, such as a digital still camera
or other computers.

To use infrared communication with a digital still camera

Align the infrared ports on the computer and the digital camera so that
they are in a direct line.

Infrared port

To use infrared communication with another computer

Align the infrared ports on the two computers so that they are in a direct
line.

Infrared communication capability can be turned on and off. By default, it is not enabled

✍

when your system is shipped. To enable infrared use, click the Infrared icon in the Windows
Control Panel, and select the Enable infrared communication checkbox on the Options tab.

You can disable infrared communication when you are not using it to conserve battery life.
Use the Infrared icon in the Windows Control Panel to enable and disable infrared

communication. Do not use the icon in the taskbar.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

29

When you transfer files directly from devices other than the internal hard disk drive, such as
a CD-ROM drive or hard disk drive on a network, set the System Suspend and System
Hibernation timers to off.

Check the Status tag of the Infrared Monitor in the Windows Control Panel to determine if
the infrared device is detected.

If the two devices are too far apart or too close together, data transfer may be interrupted or
there may be noise in the transmission.

Do not cover the infrared ports with your hand or any other objects.
Avoid direct sunlight, fluorescent light, or flashing incandescent light near the infrared

ports.
See the manual that came with your digital still camera or other infrared communication

device for more information on installation and use.
The active area of infrared transmission extends about 39 3/8 inches (1m) with a radius of

15 degrees.

15

degrees

)

m

1

(

s

e

h

c

3

n

i

/

8

9

3

Infrared port

30

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Using Power Saving Modes

When you use a battery as the source of power for your computer, you
can take advantage of power management settings to conserve battery
life. In addition to the normal operating mode, which allows you to turn
off specific devices, your computer has two distinct power saving modes:
System Suspend and System Hibernation. When using battery power,
you should be aware that the computer automatically enters System
Hibernation mode when the remaining battery charge drops below 7%,
regardless of the power management setting you select.

If your battery level falls to less than 10%, you should either attach the AC adapter to

✍

recharge the battery or shut down your computer and insert a fully charged battery.

Normal Mode

This is the normal state of your computer when it is in use. The green
power indicator light is on in this mode. To save power , you can turn of f a
specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk.

For details, see “Controlling Power Management” on page45.

✍

System Suspend Mode

The computer saves the current state of the system in RAM and switches
off power to the CPU. The amber power indicator light flashes in this
mode.

To activate System Suspend mode

Press Fn+Esc, or you can slide the power switch forward and release the
switch immediately. You can also use the PowerPanel utility to enter
System Suspend mode.

To return to normal mode

Press any key.

Using Your C1 PictureBook Computer

31

System Hibernation Mode

The state of the system is saved on the hard drive and power is turned off.
The power indicator light is off in this mode.

T o activate System Hibernation mode

Press Fn+F12. You can also use the PowerPanel utility to enter System
Hibernation mode.

T o return to normal mode

Turn on the computer by sliding the power switch forward. The
computer returns to its previous state.

When returning from System Hibernation mode, the system status stored on the hard disk is

✍

erased and the computer starts normally if you slide the power switch forward and hold for
more than four seconds.

❑

Time to return to normal mode:
System Suspend requires less time than System Hibernation.

❑

Power consumption:
System Suspend uses more power than System Hibernation.

32

Connecting Peripheral Devices

You can add functionality to your computer by connecting any of these
peripherals:

❑

Phone line (page 34)

❑

Printer (page 35)

❑

External display (page 36)

❑

External mouse (page 38)

❑

CD-ROM drive (page 39)

❑

Digital video camera recorder (page 42)

Before you connect peripherals, turn off the computer and all peripherals.

✍

Connect the AC adapter only after connecting all cables.
Turn on the computer only after turning on all peripherals.

33

34

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Phone Line

Y ou need to connect a phone line to take advantage of online services and
the Internet.

In order to register your VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer or register your software online,

✍

you must connect to a phone line. You must register your computer to receive the extended
warranty.

1

Open the phone line jack cover. The cover opens only to a 45 degree
angle.

Phone line
jack cover

2

Plug one end of the phone cable into the jack on the inside of the
phone line jack cover. Make sure you insert the phone cable from the
rear of the computer and that the modular jack clicks into place.

3

Plug the other end into the wall jack.

Phone line jack

Phone cable

Your computer does not work with party lines, cannot be connected to a coin-operated

✍

telephone, and may not work with multiple phone lines or a private branch exchange (PBX).
Some of these connections might result in excess electrical current and could cause a
malfunction in the internal modem.

(supplied)

Connecting Peripheral Devices

35

Connecting a Printer

You can connect a Windows 98-compatible printer or other parallel port
device to your computer.

To connect a printer

Plug the USB printer cable (optional) into the USB connector.

Computer

Power cord

Printer

Parallel connector

USB Printer cable
(optional)

to
USB connector

✍

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

36

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Connecting an External Display

You can connect an external display to your VAIO C1 PictureBook
Computer. For example, you can use the computer with either of the
following:

❑

Computer display (monitor) (page 36)

❑

Projector (page 37)

To connect a computer display

❑

Use the symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Connect the
supplied adapter to the Monitor connector, then plug the display
cable into the adapter.

❑

If necessary, plug one end of the display power cord into the display,
and the other end into an AC outlet.

❑

Before connecting an external display, open the external display
connector cover on the left side.

Computer

Press the tab down to open.

Computer

Power cord

Computer display

See the manual that came with your computer display for more information on installation

✍

and use.

Display cable

VGA adapter (supplied)

to

Monitor

Connecting Peripheral Devices

To remove the VGA adapter

37

Turn off your computer and then press both sides of the connector of the
VGA adapter.

To connect a projector

You can use a projector as an external display, such as the Sony LCD
Projector.

1

Use the symbol to locate the Monitor connector. Plug the RGB
signal cable to a VGA adapter and into this connector.

2

Use the symbol to locate the Headphone connector. Plug the audio
cable into this connector.

Computer

Projector

Power cord

VGA adapter (supplied)

RGB signal cable

Audio cable (sold separately)

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

✍

To select a display

to
Monitor

When you connect an external display to the monitor connector, you can
press Fn+F7 to toggle the output between the Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD), the external monitor, or both devices. See “Selecting the Display
Mode” on page 52 for more information.

38

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Connecting an External USB Mouse

You can connect an external USB mouse PCGA-UMS1 (optional) to your
computer.

To connect an external mouse

Plug the mouse cable into the USB connector.

Computer

USB Mouse

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

✍

to

USB Mouse

Connecting Peripheral Devices

39

Connecting the CD-ROM Drive

You can use the optional PCGA-CD5 CD-ROM drive with your computer.

T o connect the CD-ROM drive

1

Remove the PC card slot protector from the PC card slot. See “Using
PC Cards” on page 25 for details.

2

Connect the CD-ROM drive cable to the PC card supplied with the
CD-ROM drive.

PC card
(supplied with
CD-ROM drive)

CD-ROM
drive cable

3

Connect the CD-ROM drive AC power adapter to the CD-ROM drive
and plug the AC adapter into an AC outlet. Turn on the computer by
sliding the power button forward.

to AC outlet

Power switch

AC adapter cable

40

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

4

Insert the PC card into the PC card slot with the label side facing up.
See “Using PC Cards” on page 25 for details.

The pick-up cover is attached to the lens of the CD-ROM drive at the factory. Before using

✍

the CD-ROM drive, remove the pick-up cover.

To insert a CD-ROM

1

Slide the Open button in the direction of the arrow to open the
CD-ROM drive lid.

Open button

2

Place the CD-ROM in the tray with the label side facing up. Push the
disc onto the hub until the disc clicks into place.

Press here to
click disc in place

Be sure to seat the CD-ROM firmly over the CD-ROM drive hub fingers. If you do not seat

✍

the disc firmly, you could damage your CD-ROM drive and you may not be able to open the
CD-ROM drive lid.

Connecting Peripheral Devices

3

Gently press on the CD-ROM drive lid until it clicks shut.

Power/Busy indicator

Press here to close lid

41

42

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Connecting a Digital Video Camera Recorder

The VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer includes an i.LINK (IEEE 1394)
connector, which you can use to connect to a digital video camera
recorder.

To connect a digital video camera recorder

❑

Plug one end of an i.LINK cable into the S200 connector on the left
side of the computer and the other end into the DV In/Out connector
on the digital video camera recorder.

to DV In/Out

Digital video
camera recorder

The Sony digital video camera recorder (DCR-PC7) is pictured; your digital video camera

✍

recorder may need to be connected differently.
On Sony digital video cameras, connectors labeled “DV In/Out” or “i.LINK” are compatible.

See the manual that came with your digital video camera recorder for more information on
installation and use.

The i.LINK connector does not supply power to external devices. If the external device
requires power from the i.LINK connector, you cannot use the device with your computer.

The C1 PictureBook Computer supports transfer r a tes up to 200 Mbps; however, the actual
transfer rate is the lowest transfer rate of the external device.

The i.LINK features available may vary depending on the software applications you use. See
the documentation that came with your software for more information.

i.LINK cable
(not supplied)

to S200

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

You can customize the settings of your C1 PictureBook Computer. The
following sections briefly describe how to change your computer’s
default settings. You can also refer to the Sony Notebook Setup Help for
more detailed information.

Displaying the Sony Notebook Setup Screen

To display the Sony Notebook Setup screen

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to VAIO and then click Sony Notebook Setup.

3

Select the tab for the item you want to change. See “Notebook Setup
Tabs” on page 44.

4

After you finish, click OK.

43

44

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Notebook Setup Tabs

Tab Descriptions

About This Computer Display system information, including memory

capacity, serial number, and BIOS version.

Power On
Device Sequence

Power On Password Set the password to secure your computer.
Enable Ports To change the audio, infrared, and modem settings,

Basic/Advanced Toggle between Advanced mode (additional

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

✍

display the help file.

Select the order of drives and devices from which
you want to load the operating system.

click Advanced on the Basic/Advanced tab.

screens with advanced settings) and Basic mode of
display. Advanced mode includes Audio, Built-in
Modem, Infrared, Enable Ports, and View Resources
tabs.

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

45

Controlling Power Management

The PowerPanel utility allows you to control the power management of
your computer and provides key information about system activity and
battery life. The following sections briefly describe how to conserve your
computer’s battery power. You can also refer to the PowerPanel Help for
more detailed information.

Power Management Profiles

PowerPanel provides several predefined power management profiles.
Each profile consists of a group of specific power management settings
that are designed to meet specific power management goals — ranging
from maximum power management to no power management. You can
change the settings for any of the predefined profiles or you can create
your own profile to suit your portable computing needs. The predefined
profiles are:

Icon Description

Maximum Battery Life

you maximum battery life and good performance. It slows the
computer and puts it into System Suspend mode after a specified
period of inactivity.

Power Management Off

such as System Suspend and System Hibernation modes.

Provides power-saving features to give

–

T urns off all power management features

–

AC Profile

use. Similar to the Power Management Off setting. PowerPanel
automatically loads the AC profile unless you disable this feature.

Presentation

power. This option is ideal for slide show presentations. You can
establish settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and
System Suspend to optimize power management for your system.

Camera

built-in camera.

Word Processing

timeouts on the hard disk and display screen. You can also establish
settings for LCD (Video) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and System
Suspend to optimize power management for your system.

The power management state when AC power is in

–

Keeps the display on at all times while it conserves

–

- Provides the best system performance while using the

Optimizes power management with longer

–

46

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Icon Description

Communications

timeout. The Internal modem remain s powered. You can also
establish settings for LCD (Vide o) Standby, Hard Disk Sleep, and
System Suspend to optimize power management for your system.

Extends battery life by initiating a quick display

–

Power Management Commands

PowerPanel also provides power management commands that you can
use to activate specific power management functions and to control
power for a specific device. You might use these commands when you
want to override a profile setting or initiate an immediate action, such as
putting the system into Video Standby mode before the Video Standby
timer expires.

Icon Description

System Suspend

power management state that saves the state of the system and
peripheral devices in memory (RAM). Pow er consumption r ed uces
to a minimum, and the system remains on. To return the system to
the active state, press any key or the power switch on your
computer.

System Hibernation –

consumption. The system writes the state of the system and
peripheral devices to the hard disk and turns off the system power.
To return the system to the original state, use the power switch to
turn on power. The system saves the data in the Save to Disk
Partition on the hard drive.

LCD (Video) Standby

turn off the Video Standby timer, the display remains active except
when the system enters System Suspend mode. The video display
system is one of the largest consumers of power in the system.

Hard Disk Sleep

you can manually turn off the power to the hard disk through this
command, any system request to the hard disk turns on the power
to the hard disk.

Speed Controller

Click this button to open the Speed Control dialog box. When you
select the Auto checkbox, the CPU performs at full speed while the
system is active and at 25% of full speed during periods of
inactivity. Auto is the recommended option. You can also choose to
run the CPU at 100%, 75%, 50%, or 25% of full speed regardless of
whether the system is active or inactive. Using this command can
help conserve battery power.

– Puts the system into System Suspend mode, a

Provides for the lowest level of power

Turns off the LCD to save power. If you

–

T urns of f the hard disk spindle motor. Although

–

- Controls the speed at which the CPU performs.

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Icon Description

PC Card

the PC Card (PCMCIA) Properties dialog box. You can view the
properties for the PC cards.

T o activate PowerPanel

1

Double-click the (PowerPanel) icon on the taskbar.

Controls the PC card sockets. Click this button to open

–

The Profiles toolbar appears. When you move the pointer over the
atom icon on the taskbar, a tooltip with the na me of the active power
management profile appears.

2

Click the button you want to set.
The power management settings associated with the profile you

select become active.

To display the Commands toolbar, right-click an empty portion of the toolbar and select

✍

Commands from the shortcut menu. Refer to the PowerPanel Help for information on
customizing the PowerPanel toolbars.

When you use the battery pack to power your computer, your system selects the
Maximum Battery Life power management profile by default. If you select a different
power management profile while using battery power, that profile is selected
automatically the next time you use the battery pack to power your computer.

47

48

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Displaying Battery Information

You can display detailed information for the battery in your computer.
The following sections briefly describe how to display your computer’s
general battery information. You can also refer to the BatteryScope Help
for more detailed information.

Activating BatteryScope

To activate BatteryScope

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to VAIO and then click BatteryScope.
When you move the pointer over the battery icon on the taskbar, a

tooltip appears indicating the total capacity remaining in the battery
and the estimated time until the battery fully discharges.

You can also view battery gauges on the shared PowerPanel and
BatteryScope toolbar.

❑

Percentage indicator

Displays the percentage of the remaining capacity.

❑

Time indicator

Displays estimated time (hours/minutes) remaining before the
battery fully drains, also referred to as the time-to-empty.

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Battery Icon Descriptions

Battery icon Battery status

Discharging

Charging

No battery

Displaying Detailed Battery Information

You can obtain detailed information about the batteries.

❑

Double-click the battery icon on the toolbar to display the
BatteryScope window.

The screen appears displaying the Battery tab, which contains
information such as the estimated time-to-empty and charging time.

49

To customize the BatteryScope toolbar and alarm system

You can customize the BatteryScope toolbar to suit your portab le
computing needs, including modifications to the alarm settings. Refer to
the BatteryScope Help for more information.

50

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Starting Your Favorite Software with Programmable Power Key (PPK) Setup

The PPK Setup software enables you to start your favorite software by
simply pressing the programmable power key.

Programmable power key

This section briefly describes how to use the programmable power key.
You can also refer to the PPK Setup Help for more detailed information.

To use the PPK Setup screen

1

Double-click the PPK Setup icon on the taskbar. The PPK Setup
screen appears.

2

Select the software title you want PPK to launch automatically from
the Registered Files list and right-click. The Setup options screen
appears.

3

Click Set as PPK launch file. The appears next to the selected
software title.

4

Click OK.

The default settings for PPK do not allow you to start the selected software when the

✍

computer's LCD is closed. To start the selected software while the LCD is closed, click the
Enable/Disable tab and select Enable PPK even if the LCD Panel is closed. Be aware,
however, that the software can now start accidentally if you press the progr ammable power
key when you carry the computer.

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

51

Using the Programmable Power Key with Other Keys

You can also choose to start other applications by pressing the
programmable power key in combination with the Alt, Ctrl, or Shift keys.

T o select the key combination, right-cli ck the application you want to start
and select an item from the menu. When you select Set as PPK launch file,
you can turn on the power and start the selected application by just
pressing the programmable power key. When you select Set as Alt+PPK
launch file, Set as Ctrl+PPK launch file, or Set as Shift+PPK launch file,
you need to turn on the computer to use these functions.

Using the internal timer

You can use the internal timer to start software at a specific time. You can
use this feature when the computer is on or in System Suspend mode.

If the computer's LCD is closed, you cannot use the inte rnal timer to star t software using the

✍

default settings. To start software while the LCD is closed, click the Enable/Disable tab and
select the checkbox next to Enable Timer launch even if the LCD Panel is closed. It may take
some time to actually start the software. It is advised that you confirm the time your
selected software takes to start.

When selecting software that uses a phone line, the computer may not be able to
disconnect the phone line due to communication and server conditions. Be sure to monitor
the status of the software when running PPK Setup, and manually disconnect the phone line
if you notice a malfunction. Furthermore, when using the timer to start the software, it is
advised that you set the computer to enter System Suspend or System Hibernation mode
after a certain time. This allows the computer to disconnect the phone line if the computer
fails to disconnect the line normal ly . However, the computer cannot disconnect the pho ne line
when it enters System Suspend mode unless the internal modem ring resume is set to On.

52

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Selecting the Display Mode

When you connect an external display, you can toggle the display mode
between the LCD on your computer and an external display.

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to Settings and click Control Panel.

3

Click Display.

4

Click the Settings tab.

5

Click the Advanced button.

6

Click the NeoMagic® tab.

7

Deselect the LCD checkbox.

8

Assure the CRT/Projector checkbox is selected.

9

Check Apply.

Display mode Function

Monitor/LCD Displays simultaneously both the LCD and an

external display connected to the Monitor.

You can adjust the refresh rate when you select Monitor as the display mode.

✍

Some displays do not support using both the computer's LCD and an external display
simultaneously.

To use the Monitor and Monitor/LCD display modes, an external display must be connected
to the monitor connector on the port replicator.

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

53

Using the Dual Display Function

The dual display function allows you to distribute portions of your
desktop across separate displays. For example, if you have an external
monitor attached to the monitor connector, your LCD display and the
monitor can function as a single desktop. Y ou can move the cursor of f one
display and onto the other. This allows you to drag objects, such as an
open application window or a toolbar , fr om one display to the other. This
configuration of a single desktop distributed across separate displays is
referred to as a virtual desktop.

Virtual desktop

External monitor Your LCD display

Selecting dual display mode

Y ou must r estart Windows to use dual display mode. Save your work and
close any open applications before changing to dual display mode, then
follow these steps:

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to Settings and click Control Panel.

3

Click the Display icon.

4

Click the Settings tab.

5

Click the Advanced button.

6

Click the NeoMagic tab.

54

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

7

Check the Set Dual-Display option and click OK. The System Settings
Change dialog box appears.

8

Click Yest to restart your system.

9

Repeat steps 1 to 3 to display the Display Properties.

10

Click the display icon number 2.

11

Click Yes.

12

Click OK.

Setting the colors and resolution for each display

You can set the display colors an d resolution for each display that is part
of a virtual desktop.

Follow steps 1 to 4 above to display the Display Properties screen. Select
the display you wish to change (1 or 2) by clicking on the icon of the
display. You can change colors by selecting an option fr om the Colors list.
Use the slider in the Screen area to change the resolution. Click OK or
Apply. Click OK to confirm that you want to make the changes.

Customizing the virtual desktop

Y ou can customize dual display mode by changing the position of the two
desktops that comprise the virtual desktop.

In the Display Properties screen, drag the icons of display 1 or display 2,
moving them to a new position relative to each other. The two display
icons must be connected to create a virtual desktop. Cli ck OK to apply the
change.

Releasing the dual display setting

You must restart Windows to return to single display mode. Save your
work and close any open applications before returning to single display
mode. Follow the steps in the section above on Selecting dual display
mode. In step 7, remove the check from the Set Dual-Display option. You
must restart Windows before the change takes effect.

Customizing Your C1 PictureBook Computer

Changing the Pointing Device settings

Using the Press-select function

You can depress the pointing device to indicate click or right-click,
instead of using the left or right button.

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to Settings and click Control Panel.

3

Double-click Stick.

4

Click the tab Press-select.

5

Check the box Use Press-select.

6

Click OK.

Adjusting the pointing device sensitivity

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to Settings and click Control Panel.

3

Double-click Stick.

55

4

Click the tab Sensitivity.

5

Adjust the pointing device sensitivity.

6

Click OK.

Using the scroll/zoom function

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to Settings and click Control Panel.

3

Double-click Stick.

4

Click the tab Scroll.

5

Check Scroll or Zoom, or Not used.

6

Click OK.

❑

Scroll: You can scroll by moving the pointing device while holding
down the center button, without using the scroll bar.

❑

Zoom: To drag the zoomed picture, move the pointing device while
holding down the center button. To change the zoom percentage,
click while holding down the center button. To change the zoom size,
right-click while holding down the center button.

❑

Not used: Check when neither of the functions is used.

When you set the pointing device sensitivity to high, the pointer may move across the

✍

screen on its own. This is called a “drift” and is not a malfunction. The pointer stabilizes if
you do not touch the pointing device for a few seconds.

56

Using the Smart Utilities

Using Smart Capture

Your computer includes an integrated digital camera. You can use the
camera to capture still images and record video clips.

Do not touch the camera lens.

✍

Do not point the camera at the sun.

Capturing a still image

1

Press the CAPTURE button to start Smart Capture.

CAPTURE button

Click here.

57

58

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

2

Turn the lens toward the subject.

3

Adjust the focus using the focus ring.

4

Press the CAPTURE button halfway down. The image freezes for a
moment. To select a different image to capture, release the CAPTURE
button and press it again.

CAPTURE button

Using the Smart Utilities

5

Depress the CAPTURE button fully. The still image appears in the
still viewer window.

Still image

When the lens is pointed towards you, Smart Capture is in mirror mode. In mirror mode, you

✍

can take a picture of yourself. A mirror-image appears in the Smart Capture window of the
display while you are viewing. The captured image, however, will not be reversed.

See the Smart Capture online help for more information on use.
You can capture still images in the following resolutions: 640 x 480, 320 x 240, 160 x 120,

80 x 60, and 40 x 30.
The captured image in 640 x 480 resolution may appear blurred, as it is produced from a

480 x 240 resolution image. The viewing image in small resolutions, such as 80 x 60, may
also appear blurred.

A gap may appear when an object in rapid movement is viewed. This is not a malfunction.

59

To exit Smart Capture

❑

Click the (Close) button.

To close Still Viewer

❑

Click the (Close) button.

You can capture still images using i.LINK compatible devices. Refer to “Connecting a Digital

✍

Video Camera Recorder” on page42 for information on connecting the device. You should
also refer to the Smart Capture help file.

You can create a panorama view using the panorama assist function in Smart Capture. See
the online help for more information.

You can capture still images and video clips from a digital video camera using Smart Capture.
When you use applications that use the internal camera, set the power management profile to

AC Profile or Camera in PowerPanel.

60

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

To send a still image via e-mail using a MAPI-compliant e-mail

®

software such as Microsoft

1

Make sure your e-mail software is compatible with the Messaging
Application Programming Interface (MAPI). See the manual that
came with your e-mail software to determine if it is MAPI compliant.

2

Make sure your e-mail software is set up to send and receive mail.

3

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

4

Point to Programs, point to Smart Capture Application, and then
click Still V iewer.

5

Choose the still image you want to send using the or button. To
capture a new still image, press the CAPTURE button in the upper
right corner of the keyboard. For de tails on captur ing still i mages, see
“Capturing a still image” on page 57.

6

Click MAIL.

Outlook® 98

Attached still image

7

Address the e-mail and write your message. The still image is
automatically attached as a file.

8

Send the e-mail.

See the manual that came with your e-mail software for more information on sending e-mail.

✍

Note: If you use Microsoft® Outlook® 98 as your e-mail software, check your mail in order to
send the messages in your out box.

Using the Smart Utilities

61

To send a still image via e-mail if you use America Online® or
other non-MAPI-compliant e-mail software

If you use an online service provider such as America Online® or other
non-MAPI-compliant e-mail software, you should not use the MAIL
button to send still images. Y ou can send still images by attaching the still
image file to your e-mail message.

1

In the Smart Capture application, capture a new still image or choose
a previously captured image to send. To capture a new still image see
“Capturing a still image” on page 57. To choose a previously
captured still image, use the or button.

2

Click the Save button to save the image as a file.

3

Create your e-mail message and attach the file to your message.

Capturing a video clip

You can capture video clips using the built-in camera, view them, and
send them via e-mail.

1

Press the CAPTURE button to start Smart Capture.

2

Click the drop down bar and select Movie Player.

CAPTURE button

Click here

62

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

3

Turn the camera lens toward the subject.

4

Adjust the focus using the focus ring.

5

Hold down the CAPTURE button to import the video clip. Video is
recorded while the button is depressed. You can import up to 60
seconds of video.

CAPTURE button

Using the Smart Utilities

6

Release the CAPTURE button when finished.

Captured video clip

The captured video clip appears in the video window.

When the lens is pointed towards you, Smart Capture is in mirror mode. In mirror mode, you

✍

can take a picture of yourself. A mirror-image appears in the Smart Capture window of the
display while you are viewing. The captured image, however, will not be reversed.

You can capture video images in the following formats:
Non-compressed : Video 160 x 120, 24 bits, maximum 10 frames/sec.

Audio PCM, 11.025kHz, 16 bits, monaural.

Compressed : Video VDOWave SV-512, 160 x 112, 24 bits, maximum 10 frames/sec.

Audio GSM 6.10, 11.025kHz, monaural.

A gap may appear when an object in rapid movement is viewed. This is not a malfunction.

63

To play back captured video clips

Start the Movie Player software. Click to play back the images.
Click to pause, to stop playback.

To end Smart Capture

❑

Click the (Close) button.

To end Movie Player

❑

Click the (Close) button.

64

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

To send a video clip via e-mail using a MAPI-compliant e-mail

®

software such as Microsoft

Note that if this is the first time you are sending a video clip to an
individual, you must also attach a VDO Codec to your message as
described in step 9 below.

1

Make sure your e-mail software is compatible with MAPI. See the
manual that came with your e-mail software to determine if it is
MAPI compliant.

2

Make sure your e-mail software is set up to send and receive
mail.Click MAIL.

3

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

4

Point to Programs, point to Smart Capture Application, and then
click Movie Player.

5

Send the previously recorded video clip that appears in the video
image display area or record a new one. To record a new video clip,
see “Capturing a video clip” on page 61.

6

Click MAIL.

7

Select the Attach decoder check box the first time you send someone
a video clip.

8

Choose the compression rate by dragging the slider to the left or the
right. The higher the compression rate, the more the image quality
will deteriorate.

Outlook® 98

Move the slider to the right for high compression or to the left for low compression

9

Click Start compression.

10

Select Yes to confirm the compressed file size.

Compression slider

Using the Smart Utilities

11

Address your e-mail, compose your message, and then send the
e-mail. The video clip is attached as a compressed AVI file (file
extension .AVI). The VDO Codec is attached as an executable file (file
extension .exe).

12

The recipient of your video clip can execute the VDO Codec by
double clicking on the VDODecode30.exe file.

See the manual that came with your e-mail software for more information on sending e-mail.

✍

Note: If you use Microsoft® Outlook® 98 as your e-mail software, check your mail in order to
send the messages in your out box.

65

To send a video clip via e-mail if you use America Online® or
other non-MAPI-compliant e-mail software

If you use an online service provider such as America Online® or other
non-MAPI-compliant e-mail software, you should not use the MAIL
button to send video clips. You can send a video clip by attaching the
video clip file to your e-mail message.

1

Record your video clip as described in “Capturing a video clip” on
page 61.

2

Click the Save button.

3

Select the destination folder where you wish to save the video clip
file.

4

Select Compressed from the drop down list box.

5

Click Save.

6

Choose the compression rate by dragging the slider to the left or the
right. The higher the compression rate, the more the image quality
will deteriorate.

7

Select the Start compression bar from the Compression Settings
dialog box.

8

Select Y es to confirm the compresse d file size. The file is saved to your
destination folder on your hard drive.

9

Open your e-mail program, address the e-mail, and compose your
message.

66

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

10

Attach the VDO Codec to your message if this is the first time you
have sent this e-mail recipient a video clip. The VDO Codec is located
at C:/Program Files/Sony/Smart Capture/Decoder. The file name is
VDODecode30.exe.

11

The recipient of your video clip can execute the VDO Codec by
double clicking on the VDODecode30.exe file.

Note: For more information about Smart Capture, see the Smart Capture online help.

✍

Using the Smart Utilities

Using Smart Write

Smart Write allows you to create document memos that include sound
and video.

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to VAIO and then click Smart Write.

3

Type your memo using the keyboard.

To insert an image

1

Click

2

Turn the camera lens toward the subject, and click or press the
CAPTURE button.

T o record your voice

1

Click

2

Click Record and speak into the microphone.

3

Click Stop when you are finished.

4

Click OK.

67

To delete the memos, press the Backspace key or the Delete key.
To end Smart Write, select Close from the File menu.

68

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Using Smart Publisher

Smart Publisher allows you to send memos to the Internet.
You must be connected to the Internet before you can send a memo.

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to VAIO, point to Stationary, and then click Smart Publisher.

3

Click New.

4

Enter information in the profile window and click Next when
finished.

5

Enter information in the communication window and click Next
when finished.

6

Click OK.

7

Start Smart Write.

8

Click the File menu and point to Internet, then click Send.

9

Choose the profile and click OK.

See the Smart Publisher help file for more information.

✍

Using the Smart Utilities

Using Smart Label

Smart Label allows you to create memos on your desktop that include
sound and video.

To create a voice memo

1

Click the Start button on the Windows 98 taskbar.

2

Point to VAIO and then click Smart Label.

3

Double-click on the bottom right corner of the display, and speak
into the microphone. The label appears as you recor d your voice. You
can record up to 60 seconds of audio.

Microphone

69

4

Click when finished.

See the Smart Label help file for more information.

✍

Smart label

70

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

To play back a voice memo

Click the label, then click to play. Click to pause, to stop.

To import images using the camera

1

Right-click at the bott om right corner of the display.

2

Click Use camera.

3

Turn the camera lens toward the subject, and press the CAPTURE

button.
A label appears to represent the imported image.
To display the imported image in the original size, right-click the label

you want to display. Select Bitmap from the pop-up menu, then select
Original size from the submenu.

To delete the memo, right-click the label you want to delete. Click Delete.
To close Smart label, right-click and then click Exit.

Getting Help

Sony provides several support options for your Sony computer. When
you have questions about your computer and the preinstalled software,
check these sources for answers, in the following sequence:

1

VA I O C 1
PictureBook
Computer Read
Me First

2

VA I O C 1
PictureBook
Computer User
Guide

3

Online User
Guide

4

Manuals and
online help files
that may
accompany
your
preinstalled
software

5

Knowledge
Database

Contains a complete list of the items that ship with
your computer, produc t spec ifi cation s, software
support information, and the most up-to-date
information on using your computer.

Explains how to use your C1 PictureBook Computer
and connect peripheral devices.

This electronic document contains additional
information on the preinstalled software titles. You
can access this guide from the Windows Start menu
by selecting Programs/VAIO Documentation.

Most of the manuals for preinstalled software are
located on your hard disk drive as online help files.
You can access the online help files from the Help
menu in the specific application. A printed manual is
available for some applications.

Provides instant access to information on commonly
encountered problems. Enter a des cri ption of your
problem and the Knowledge Database searches for
the corresponding solutions online. You can access
the Sony Knowledge Database at:
http://www.sony.com/pcsupport

71

72

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

6

Sony

Fax-on-Demand

7 Calling Sony

Customer

Support

This service provides you with answers to commonly
asked questions. You can use this automated service
to request a list of available topics and then select the
topics that you want to receive. To contact the Sony
fax-on-demand service, call 1-888-4SONYPC
(1-888-476-6972). (Requires a fax machine or your
fax software.)

You can call and speak with a Son y Customer
Support Representative without using your
computer by calling 1-888-4SONYPC
(1-888-476-6972). Software support is available free of
charge for 90 days after the original date of purchase.

Getting Help

73

Troubleshooting

This section describes how to solve common problems you may
encounter when using your computer.

When you reconnect devices, be sure to turn off the computer as described in “Shutting

✍

Down Your C1 PictureBook Computer” on page 13. Turning off the computer using other
methods may result in data loss.

My computer won’t start

❑

Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is
turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the
computer indicates that the power is on.

❑

Check that the battery is inserted properly and that it is charged.

❑

Make sure there is no diskette in the floppy disk drive.

❑

Confirm that the AC adapter and all cables are connected firmly, as
described in “Connecting Peripheral Devices” on page 33.

❑

If you plugged the computer into a power strip or UPS, make sur e the
power strip or UPS is turned on and working.

❑

If you are using an external display, check that it is plugged into a
power source and turned on. Check that the brightness control is
adjusted correctly. See the manual that came with your display for
details.

❑

Moisture condensation may have occurred. Do not use the computer
for at least one hour and then turn on the computer.

When I turn on my computer, the message “Operating system not found”
appears and Windows does not start

❑

Check the floppy disk drive to see if a non-bootable diskette is in the
drive.

❑

If a non-bootable diskette is in the drive, turn off the computer,
remove the diskette, and then turn on the computer again. Confirm
that Windows starts properly. If Windows still does not start, follow
the procedure below to initialize the BIOS.

❑

If the floppy disk drive is empty or contains a bootable diskette, use
the following procedure to initialize the BIOS:

74

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

1 Turn off the computer.

2 Remove the floppy disk drive, PC card, and any other peripheral

devices from the computer.

3 Turn the computer on again.

4 Press the F2 key when the Sony logo appears. The BIOS setup

menu screen appears.

5 Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.

6 Press the arrow keys to select Get Default V alues and then press the

Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?”
appears.

7 Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key.

8 Press the arrow keys to select Exit (Save Changes) and then press

the Enter key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit
now?” appears.

9 Check that [Yes] is selected, th en press the Enter key. The computer

restarts.

My LCD does not display anything

❑

Check that the computer is plugged into a power source and that it is

turned on. Check that the power indicator on the front panel of the

computer is on.

❑

Check that the battery pack is inserted properly and that it is charged.

❑

The computer may be in LCD (Video) Standby mode. Press any key

to activate the display.

❑

The video output may be directed to an external display. Press Fn+F7

until video output appears on the LCD.

The screen image on my external display is not centered or sized properly

Use the controls on your external display to adjust the image. See the
manual supplied with your display for more information.

The pointer moves across the screen on its own

This is called a “drift” and is not a malfunction. The pointer stabilizes if
you do not touch the pointing device for a few seconds.

Getting Help

When I press the pointing device without pressing the left button, it clicks

75

Check that you have not selected the press-select function. See
“Changing the Pointing Device settings” on page 55 for details.

My computer “locks up”

❑

Try restarting the computer. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start
button, click Shut Down, and then click Restart the computer.

❑

If you cannot restart as described in the preceding step, you can
restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete.

❑

If the previous step does not work, slide the power switch toward the
front and hold it for four seconds. This turns off the power.

❑

If your computer locks up while playing a CD-ROM, stop the
CD-ROM, and restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete.

Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete or turning off the computer with the power switch may result in

✍

data loss in files that are currently open.

My software program “locks up” or crashes

Contact the software publisher or designated provider for technical support.

Movements of the displayed images are awkward (not smooth)

In PowerPanel, select Change CPU Speed. Remove the check from Auto,
and set Speed Control to 100%. See “Controlling Power Management” on
page 45 for details.

I cannot play a CD-ROM

❑

Make sure the label of the CD-ROM is facing up.

❑

If the CD-ROM requires software, make sure the software is installed
according to the program’s instructions.

❑

Moisture condensation may have occurred. Disconnect the CD-ROM
drive and disconnect the power to the drive for at least one hour.

❑

Make sure the CD-ROM drive is properly connected. See
“Connecting the CD-ROM Drive” on page 39.

❑

Clean the CD-ROM.

❑

Check the speaker volume.

76

➜

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

When I click an application icon a message appears, such as “You must insert
the application CD into your CD-ROM drive,” and the software does not start

❑

Some titles require specific files that are located on the application’s

CD-ROM. Insert the disc and try starting the program again.

❑

Make sure you place the disc in the tray with the label side facing up.

My floppy disk drive cannot write to a diskette

❑

The diskette is write-protected. Disable the write-protect feature or

use a diskette that is not write-protected.

❑

Check that the diskette is properly inserted into the floppy disk drive.

My speaker has no sound

❑

The built-in speaker is turned off. Press Fn+F3 to turn on the speaker.

❑

The speaker volume is turned to the minimum. Press Fn+F4, and then

press

❑

If your computer is powered by the battery, check that the battery is

➜

to increase the volume.

or

connected properly and that it is charged.

❑

If you are using an application that has its own volume control, check

that the volume is turned up.

❑

Check the volume controls in Windows 98.

❑

If you have connected a headphone or an audio cable to the

Headphone connector, disconnect the cable.

When I press Fn+F3, I see the message “Sound Disabled”

Click the System icon in the Control Panel. Change the settings under
Device Manager so that sound is enabled.

My modem does not work

❑

Check that the phone line is plugged into the line jack. See

“Connecting a Phone Line” on page 34 for details.

❑

Check that the phone line is working. You can check the line by

plugging in an ordinary phone and listening for a dial tone.

Getting Help

❑

Check that the phone number the program is dialing is correct.

❑

Check that the software you are using is compatible with the

77

computer modem. (All preinstalled programs are compatible.) Call
the software publisher.

My modem connection is slow

The computer’s modem uses K56flexTM technology/V.90. Many factors
influence modem connection speed, including telephone line noise or
compatibility with telephone equipment (such as fax machines or other
modems). If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other
PC-based modems, fax machines, or your Internet Service Provider , check
the following:

❑

Have your phone company check that your phone line is free from
any line noise.

❑

If your problem is fax-related, check that there are no problems with
the fax machine you are calling and that it is compatible with fax
modems.

❑

If you are having a problem connecting with your Internet Service
Provider, check that the ISP is not experiencing technical problems.

❑

If you have a second phone line available, try connecting the modem
to that line.

My mouse does not work

❑

If you are using an external mouse, check that the mouse is plugged
into the USB connector. See “Connecting an External USB Mouse” on
page 38 for details.

I cannot use DV devices and messages appear on the screen

❑

Check that the DV device is turned on and that the cables are
properly connected.

❑

If you are using multiple i.LINK devices, the combination of the
connected devices may cause unstable operation. In this case, turn off
the power to all connected devices and disconnect unused devices.
Check the connection, then turn on the power again.

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VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

My computer does not shut down

It is best to shut down your computer using the Shut Down command on
the Windows 98 Start menu. Using other methods, including those listed
here, may result in loss of unsaved data. If the Shut Down command does
not work properly, follow these steps:

❑

Restart the computer by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete. If this does not

work, slide the power switch forward and hold it for four seconds.

❑

Unplug the computer from the AC adapter and remove the battery

pack from your computer.

My PC card is not working

❑

Make sure the PC card is compatible with Windows 98.

❑

Use the Sony Notebook Setup utility to disable devices you are not

currently using.

The game images or video images are not clear

Right-click the application bar of the PowerPanel software, choose CPU
speed settings, and remove the check from the Auto box. Then set the
speed control to 100%. See the online help of the PowerPanel help file for
details.

There is a vertical line when shooting a bright subject with a dark background using the camera

❑

This is a phenomenon called “smear.” This is not a malfunction.

The image in the viewfinder of “Smart Capture” is grainy

❑

If you are shooting an image of minimum size, such as 40 x 30, the

image may appear grainy.

❑

If you are shooting a subject that is moving rapidly, there may be a

gap. This is not a malfunction.

Getting Help

The images captured with the camera are not clear

❑

Shooting under fluorescent light may produce reflections.

❑

Red or green noise may occur if the captured images include dark
portions.

❑

If you import a still image of resolution 640 x 480, the image may
appear grainy.

❑

The viewing image and the captured image may differ when you
import a still image of size 640 x 480.

❑

Check that the lens of the camera lens is clean.

❑

Use the focus ring to adjust the focus.

There are picture gaps and sound gaps when importing video images

❑

If you are shooting using a battery pack, use the AC profile in
PowerPanel. See the PowerPanel software help file for details.

❑

Gaps may occur due to the effect settings in the Smart Capture
software. See the online help of the Smart Capture help file for
details.

The camera does not show any images

❑

Check that you are not using any other application, such as Smart
Capture, which is using the camera. If the camera still does not show
any images, restart your computer.

❑

Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete or turning off the computer with the power
switch may result in data loss in files that are currently open.

79

I cannot record using Smart Capture, Smar t Write, or Smart Label

1

Double-click in the task tray.

2

Select Properties from the Option menu.

3

Check Record and Microphone, and click OK.

4

Uncheck “Mute” in microphone if it is checked.

Smart Write and Smart Label do not start

Reinstall the software using the Application Recovery CD.

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VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

Using the System and Application Recovery CDs

The following sections describe how to use the System Recovery and
Application Recovery utilities. You need to connect the optional PCGA­CD5 CD-ROM drive to use the System and Application Recovery CDs.

Using the System Recovery CD(s)

You can reinstall software titles that shipped with your computer if they
are corrupted or accidentally erased. You may not need to recover the
entire contents of your hard drive. If you experience a pr oblem wi th your
computer, reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may
correct the problem. Use the Application Recovery CD(s) to reinstall
individual applications or device drivers. See “Using the Application
Recovery CD(s)” on page 82.

The System Recovery CD(s) contain a backup copy of all the software
originally installed on your hard disk drive. It can be used only to

recover the hard disk of the computer you purchased.

The System Recovery utility gives you three options:

❑

Full Restore without Format restores all the software titles that

originally came with your computer without formatting the hard

disk.

❑

Full Restore with Format formats th e hard disk dr ive and then

restores all the original software.

❑

Operating System Only restores the Windows 98 operating system,

the computer utility programs, and the device drivers that shipped

with your computer.

!

If you choose the Full Restore with Format or Operating System Only option,
your hard disk will be formatted, which removes all the information on the
hard disk drive. You will lose any software you have installed and any other
files you have created since you started to use your computer. This means you
will have to reinstall any applications that were not included with the
computer when you purchased it. If you choose the Full Restore without
Format option, you may need to reinstall applications that were not included
with the computer when you purchased it. If you have any questions on using
the System Recovery CD(s), contact Sony Customer Support.

Getting Help

To use the System Recovery CD(s)

The optional PCGA-CD5 CD-ROM drive must be connected to the computer to use the

✍

System Recovery CD(s).
You need to complete the Windows® 98 registration process when you use the System

Recovery CD. Make sure you have the product ID number located on the cover of your
Microsoft Windows 98
recovery process.

1

Insert the Sony System Recovery CD in the CD-ROM drive.

2

Shut down your computer as described in “Shutting Down Your C1
PictureBook Computer” on page 13.

3

Wait four seconds and turn on your computer.

4

Click OK to signify you have read and accept the Micr osof t End-Use r
License Agreement.

5

When the System Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen
instructions to complete the recovery process.

Yo ur system may include one or two System Recovery CDs . If you have two System Recovery

✍

CDs, insert the first CD to run the System Recovery program. You are prompted to insert the
second CD once the information from the first CD has ben installed.

The recovery process takes between 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

Getting Started

manual. You will need this number to complete the

81

If your computer does not start from the Recovery CD

1

Slide the power switch forward and hold it for more than four
seconds to turn off the computer.

2

Turn on the computer and press the F2 key when the Sony logo
appears. The BIOS setup menu screen appears.

3

Press the arrow keys to select the Exit menu.

4

Press the arrow keys to select Get Default Values and then press the
Enter key. The message “Load default configuration now?” appears.

5

Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key.

6

Press the arrow keys to select Exit (Save Changes) and then press the
Enter key. The message “Save configuration changes and exit now?”
appears.

7

Check that [Yes] is selected, then press the Enter key. The computer
restarts from the Recovery CD.

Using the Application Recovery CD(s)

The Application Recovery CD(s) allow you to reinstall individual
applications and device drivers if they are corrupted or accidentally
erased. Reinstalling an individual device driver or software title may
correct a problem you are experiencing with your computer, and you may
not need to recover the entire contents of your hard drive. If you do need
to reinstall all the software titles that shipped with your computer, use the
System Recovery CD(s). See “Using the System Recovery CD(s)” on
page 80.

You must be in Windows to run the Application Recovery CDs. The application will not run

✍

from DOS. If you have any questions on using the Application Recovery CDs, contact Sony
Customer Support.

Some applications on the Application Recovery CDs must be decompressed before the
installation process begins. Your screen does not change while the files are decompressed.
The time to decompress an application varies and may be as long as 30 minutes.

To use the Application Recovery CD(s)

1

Turn on your computer. If your computer is already on, close all

applications.

2

When the Windows desktop appears, insert the first Sony

Application Recovery CD in the CD-ROM drive. The Application

Recovery utility loads automatically.

3

When the Application Recovery menu appears, follow the on-screen

instructions to complete the recovery process.

You may be prompted to insert the second CD, depending on the application you want to

✍

restore.
Your system may include one or two Application Recovery CDs. If you have two Application

Recovery CDs, insert the first CD to run the Application Recovery program. You may be
prompted to insert the second CD, depending on the application you wish to restore.

For a list of the contents of the Application Recovery CD(s), see the online version of

Me First

.

82

Read

Notes on Use

This section describes safety guidelines and precautions to help protect
your computer from potential damage.

On Handling the LCD Screen

❑

Do not leave the LCD facing the sun as it can damage the LCD. Be
careful when using the computer near a window.

❑

Do not scratch the LCD. Do not exert pressure on the LCD or on the
top of the computer. This could cause malfunction.

❑

Using the computer in low temperature conditions may produce a
residual image on the screen. This is not a malfunction. When the
computer returns to normal temperature, the screen returns to
normal.

❑

A residual image may appear on the screen if the same image is
displayed for a lengthy period of time. The residual image disappears
in a while. You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images.

❑

The screen becomes warm during operation. This is normal and does
not indicate a malfunction.

❑

The LCD is manufactured using high-precisi on technology. You may,
however, see tiny black points and/or bright points (red, blue, or
green) that continuously appear on the LCD. This is a normal result
of the manufacturing process and does not indicate a malfunction.

On the Power Source

❑

Your computer operates on 100V-240V AC 50/60 Hz.

❑

Do not share the AC outlet with other power-consuming equipment,
such as a copying machine or shredder.

❑

You can purchase a power strip with a surge protector. This device
may prevent damage to your computer caused by sudden power
surges such as those that may occur during an electrical storm.

❑

Do not place heavy objects on the AC adapter or its cord.

83

84

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

❑

To disconnect the cord, pull it out by the plug. Never pull the cord

itself.

❑

Unplug your computer from the wall outlet if you will not be using

the computer for a long time.

❑

When the AC adapter is not used, unplug it from the AC outlet.

❑

Use only the supplied AC adapter. Do not use any AC adapter not

specifically designed for the computer.

On Handling

❑

Clean the cabinet with a soft, dry cloth or a soft cloth lightly

moistened with a mild detergent solution. Do not use any type of

abrasive pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as alcohol or benzine,

as these may damage the finish of your computer.

❑

Should any solid object or liquid fall into the computer, shut down

your computer and then unplug it. You may want to have the

computer checked by qualified personnel before operating it any

further.

❑

Do not drop the computer or place heavy objects on top of the

computer.

On Installation

❑

Do not place your computer in a location subject to:

❑

Heat sources, such as radiators or air ducts

❑

Direct sunlight

❑

Excessive dust

❑

Moisture or rain

❑

Mechanical vibration or shock

❑

Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded

❑

Ambient temperature of more than 95º F (35º C) or less than
50º F (10º C)

❑

High humidity

❑

Do not place electronic equipment near your computer. The

computer’s electromagnetic field may cause a malfunction.

❑

Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat build-up. Do

not place your computer on porous surfaces such as rugs or blankets,

or near materials such as curtains or draperies that may block its

ventilation slots. Leave a space of at least 8 inches behind the back

panel of the computer.

Notes on Use

❑

The computer uses high-frequency radio signals and may cause

85

interference to radio or TV reception. Should this occur, relocate the
computer a suitable distance away from the set.

❑

Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables;
otherwise, problems may result.

❑

Do not use cut or damaged connection cables.

❑

Y our computer will not work with party lines, cannot be connected to
a coin-operated telephone, and may not work with multiple phone
lines or a private branch exchange (PBX).

❑

If the telephone company makes a service call to your home or office
and determines that your computer is responsible for a problem, the
telephone company may bill you for the service call. Also, if you do
not disconnect your computer when it is adversely affecting the
telephone line, the telephone company has the right to disconnect
your service until you correct the problem.

On Moisture Condensation

If the computer is brought directly from a cold location to a warm one,
moisture may condense inside your computer. In this case, allow at least
an hour before turning on your computer. If any problems occur, unplug
your computer, and contact your Sony Service Center.

On Upgrading the System

❑

It is recommended that your memory upgrade be performed by an
authorized Sony Service Center or a qualified technician.

On Handling Diskettes

❑

Do not open the shutter manually and touch the surface of the
diskette.

❑

Keep diskettes away from magnets.

❑

Keep diskettes away from direct sunlight and other heat sources.

On Handling CD-ROMs

❑

Do not touch the surface of the disc.

❑

Do not drop or bend the disc.

86

VAIO C1 PictureBook Computer User Guide

On Cleaning CD-ROMs

❑

Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause read errors.

Proper care of the disc is essential to maintain its reliability. Do not

use solvents such as benzine, thinner, commercially available

cleaners, or anti-static spray, as they may cause damage to the disc.

❑

For normal cleaning, hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to

wipe the surface from the center out.

❑

If the disc is badly soiled, moisten a soft cloth with water, wring it out

well, and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the center out.

Wipe off any remaining moisture with a dry soft cloth.

On Using Batteries

❑

Never leave the battery pack in temperatures above 140° F (60° C),

such as in a car parked in the sun or under direct sunlight.

❑

Battery life is shorter in a cold environment. This is due to decreased

battery efficiency at low temperatures.

❑

Charge the batteries at temperatures between 50° F and 80° F (10° C

to 30° C). Lower temperatures require a longer charging time.

❑

While the battery is in use or being discharged, the battery pack heats

up. This is normal and is not cause for concern.

❑

Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat.

❑

Keep the battery pack dry.

❑

Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack.

❑

Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock.

❑

If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time,

remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the

battery.

❑

If, after fully charging the battery pack, the battery power is still low,

the battery pack may be reaching the end of its life and should be

replaced.

❑

You do not need to discharge the battery before recharging.

❑

If you have not used the battery pack for a considerable amount of

time, recharge the battery.

Notes on Use

On Maintenance

❑

Make sure to disconnect the AC adapter before cleaning the
computer.

❑

Avoid rubbing the LCD screen as this can damage the screen. Use a
soft, dry cloth to wipe the LCD screen.

❑

Clean the computer with a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild
detergent solution. Do not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring
powder, or solvent, such as alcohol or benzine.

87

88