Sony PCV-W500GN1 VAIO User Guide (primary manual) Specifications Download

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Getting Started

Congratulations on your purchase of the Sony VAIO

computer! Your new, high-performance, multimedia computer combines

state-of-the-art computer functionality with the latest audio, video and information technology features.

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Unpacking your Computer



Planning An Ergonomic Work Space

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Summary of Contents for PCV-W500GN1 VAIO User Guide (primary manual)

Page 1: ...provided here is designed to help you to become familiar with the hardware and software applications included with your system View the Electronic Flyer which provides updates and supplemental information about your computer View the VAIO Computer Specifications which lists your computer s hardware specifications and preinstalled software information Page 1 ...

Page 2: ... of the Sony VAIO computer Your new high performance multimedia computer combines state of the art computer functionality with the latest audio video and information technology features Unpacking your Computer Planning An Ergonomic Work Space Page 2 ...

Page 3: ... purchased For details on the accessories supplied with your computer see the online Specifications sheet Computer and supplied accessories Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder accessories Handling the system unit Manuals VAIO Computer Quick Start Provides basic information on setting up and registering your computer The Quick Page 3 ...

Page 4: ...s taskbar then click Help and Support 2 From the VAIO Help and Support Center menu click VAIO User Guide 3 Click the Welcome link The Welcome page displays in the right side frame 4 Locate the link in the text View the VAIO Computer Specifications Hard Disk Drive Recovery Your computer is equipped with a utility program that enables you to recover your computer s operating system and preinstalled ...

Page 5: ... a relaxed hand and use your whole arm to move it Take breaks during sessions with your computer Excessive use of the mouse or a joystick may strain muscles or tendons Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support and armrests Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor A footrest may make you more comfortable Sit with relaxed upright posture avoid slouching forw...

Page 6: ...K connection may vary depending on the software applications operating system and compatible i LINK devices All products with an i LINK connection may not communicate with each other Please refer to the documentation that came with your compatible i LINK device for information on operating conditions and proper connection Before connecting compatible i LINK devices to your system such as an optica...

Page 7: ...t in stereo speakers and indicator lights You can access the front panel of your VAIO computer by lowering the keyboard When the keyboard is not in use you can fold it up and use the additional TV channel and volume controls Handling the System Unit Front panel Keyboard open Page 7 ...

Page 8: ...s in use 3 DVD RW combo drive access indicator Light is amber while reading and writing data from and to the combo drive 4 Hard disk drive access indicator Light is amber while reading and writing data from and to the hard disk 5 Power indicator Light is green while the power is on and amber when the computer is in Stand by mode 6 Power button Turns the computer on and off Page 8 ...

Page 9: ...uter s functional capabilities 9 Keyboard with Shortcut keys S keys The attached keyboard uses a standard key arrangement along with programmable function keys that launch specific applications Front panel Keyboard folded 1 TV On button Press to start the Giga Pocket Video Recorder software 2 Channel Press to change the channel when TV programming is displayed 3 Volume Press to increase or decreas...

Page 10: ... cable optional Composite video In jack Connection for a digital video or stereo A V dubbing cable optional 2 DVD RW drive Reads data from compatible CD or DVD media Writes data to a DVD RW DVD R CD RW or CD R media 3 DVD RW drive eject button Ejects a disc from the drive 4 Composite audio L In jack Connection for an audio or stereo dubbing cable optional Composite audio R In jack Connection for a...

Page 11: ...C Card PCMCIA Card can be inserted into this slot to increase your computer s functional capabilities 11 Modem line jack Connection for the modem cable supplied to the wall jack 1 12 i LINK 4 pin S400 port Connection for i LINK compatible digital devices IEEE 1394 13 Microphone jack Connection for a microphone optional 14 Headphones jack Connection for optional speakers or headphones 15 Universal ...

Page 12: ...e to your computer Left panel 1 Brightness control dial Adjusts the contrast and brightness of the built in LCD monitor 2 Volume control dial Increases or decreases the speaker volume 3 Memory Stick media slot Reads and writes data from a Memory Stick media 4 Unlock button Unlocks the keyboard for folding towards system unit Page 12 ...

Page 13: ...th the instructions provided in this section For details on your system s hardware configuration see the online specifications sheet Connecting a USB Optical Mouse Connecting the Modem Cable Connecting the Power Cord Turning on Your Computer Registering your Computer Page 13 ...

Page 14: ...iate surface to enable precision tracking To connect a USB mouse To use an optical mouse An optical mouse requires an ideal surface texture in order to provide precision pointing and tracking Use surfaces such as plain paper card stock or fabric that have minimal repetitive patterning Avoid surfaces such as mirrors smooth glass or magazines that have half tone printing Page 14 ...

Page 15: ...m Cable Your computer is equipped with a single RJ 11 jack to connect the supplied modem cable If you also want to use your walljack for your telephone line purchase an optional 1 to 2 jack adapter device splitter Page 15 ...

Page 16: ...ice into the wall jack 5 Plug the modem cable into the modem line jack on the computer To connect the modem cable Your computer has a protective sticker covering the Ethernet port located on the rear panel Connect only 10BASE T and 100BASE TX cables to the Ethernet port Using other cables or a telephone cable may result in an electric current overload that can cause a malfunction excessive heat or...

Page 17: ... the AC input port on the right panel of the computer 2 Plug the power cord into a grounded AC wall outlet or a power strip To connect the power cord Install your computer so that you can easily reach the power outlet in the event of an emergency Page 17 ...

Page 18: ...y when you start your system the computer may detect new hardware and prompt you to restart your computer Respond to this prompt immediately Press the power button on the computer to turn on the system To turn on your computer Page 18 ...

Page 19: ...problems you may be having with your computer Limited warranty Protect your investment See the Limited Warranty Card for more details You are prompted to register your computer the first time you turn on the unit Follow the on screen instructions to complete the registration process If you are not able to register your computer during the first session you are provided with additional registration...

Page 20: ... applications are not available on all VAIO computers See your computer s online specification sheet for details on your system configuration About Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Setting Up Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder Setting Up Giga Pocket Software Giga Pocket Timer Recording Wizard Timer Recording Manager Giga Pocket Explorer CLIÉ Converter Glossary Internet Electronic Program Guide...

Page 21: ... programming simultaneously Setting and managing daily weekly timer recording schedules Managing Video Capsules recorded video contents on your computer Recording personal video content from a videotape Playing your Video Capsules on other computers Operating Giga Pocket functions with a remote control device Sharing Giga Pocket features and functions with other computers on a network Transforming...

Page 22: ...The Giga Pocket Server enables multiple computers on a network to use certain Giga Pocket software functions CLIÉ Converter The CLIÉ Converter is a plug in application that enables the conversion of Video Capsules into gMovie format You can change the format your Giga Pocket contents and transfer them onto a Memory Stick media for viewing with your Sony CLIÉ Handheld Accessing the Giga Pocket Help...

Page 23: ... to set up the cables and connections for your Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder system The hardware configuration of your computer may vary from the illustrations shown To view the specific hardware configuration for your computer see the online specifications sheet Page 23 ...

Page 24: ...e access 2 Connect the other end of the TV coaxial cable to the VHF UHF port on the right panel of your computer To connect in CATV mode Option 1 Option 2 1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable optional to your cable service access Connect the other end to the single connection end of a splitter adapter 2 Connect the TV coaxial cable supplied to the double connection end of the splitter adapter C...

Page 25: ...or antenna you may need to reorient the antenna for best reception Option 1 1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable optional to your antenna outlet Connect the other end to a VHF UHF RF combiner transformer optional 2 Connect the TV coaxial cable supplied from the combiner transformer to the VHF UHF port on the right panel of your computer Option 2 1 Connect both ends of the antenna s twin lead ca...

Page 26: ...on the right panel of your computer 4 Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable optional to the double connection end of the splitter adapter Connect the other end to the VHF UHF port on the rear of your TV monitor or display To connect in STB mode Option 1 Option 2 1 Connect one end of the TV coaxial cable supplied to your cable service access Connect the other end to the In jack on the back panel of you...

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Page 28: ...ideo cable 1 Connect an audio cable with double RCA plugs at each end optional into the composite audio L and R jacks located on the right panel of your computer 2 Connect the other ends of the audio cable into the appropriate ports on your compatible VCR or camcorder To connect with a stereo A V dubbing cable Triple RCA plugs 1 Connect a stereo A V dubbing cable with triple RCA plugs at each end ...

Page 29: ...Setting Up Giga Pocket Software Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder software features and functions are detailed in this section enabling you to begin viewing or recording TV programs Page 29 ...

Page 30: ...nding on your cable service access select Standard CATV Standard antenna or set top box STB 1 Standard CATV C1 C125 without STB For this connection you must use a coaxial cable directly without an STB to your computer The default setting for this connection option is STD Depending on your local connection requirements HRC and IRC are also available 2 Standard antenna 2 69 Select this option if you...

Page 31: ...e channel listing If your computer is connected to the Internet you can click Go to Web Site and download channel listings from the iEPG listing site 6 Connect to the Internet 7 Click Go to Web Site and download channel listings by clicking Download all Channel Settings 8 Click Next For the first time setup you are prompted to set your Giga Pocket Server password TV Setup Wizard Giga Pocket Server...

Page 32: ...en area Set your video resolution to 1024 x 768 pixels If you change the default settings you may experience poor image quality on your display Microsoft Windows XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time Even if a different user logs on using the fast switch feature Giga Pocket is not available to any other user account For more information see the Giga Pocket Help P...

Page 33: ...enables you to watch a TV program on your computer display while recording it onto your hard disk drive Using the Giga Pocket Slip Play feature you can view a program from the beginning even while it is being recorded Page 33 ...

Page 34: ... Start in the Windows taskbar point to All Programs point to Giga Pocket then click Giga Pocket The Giga Pocket window appears Giga Pocket window The current television broadcast is displayed based on the selected channel Page 34 ...

Page 35: ...he main interface window the TV Recording deck and the Playback deck TV Recording deck detail Use the TV Recording deck to view programs and record Video Capsules You can use the Playback deck of your Giga Pocket to play back a prerecorded Video Capsule Playback deck detail Page 35 ...

Page 36: ... be recorded or displayed Video input from game consoles may not be recorded or displayed in Giga Pocket When you input an image from a video player device such as a VCR that is connected to your computer the following images may not record or display The still images of a paused playback screen A screen without images such as a blue screen The menu screens of the attached video player device The ...

Page 37: ...een display may shift and split under some circumstances If this occurs switch the TV Recording deck and the playback deck or switch the channel The recording proceeds even if the on screen display shifts Giga Pocket does not operate properly if used concurrently with other video applications such as DVgate or MovieShaker software Page 37 ...

Page 38: ...nd may change without notice Pay per view channels can be accessed when making payments directly to the appropriate TV program provider You can schedule up to 100 timer recordings using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder From the online channel guide click on the REC icon to select the program you wish to record The Timer Recording Wizard begins and the New Timer Recording Set Channel and Start D...

Page 39: ...Timer Recording Wizard With the Timer Recording Wizard you can set adjust and cancel the timer recording settings Page 39 ...

Page 40: ... Wizard dialog box appears Timer Recording Wizard 3 Select the desired option from the Select Timer Recording Settings menu and click Next Follow the on screen instructions Click Help for assistance New Timer Recording Set Channel and Start Date and Time 4 Verify that the information is correct and click Next The programming station and time information is Page 40 ...

Page 41: ...EG 1 MPEG 2 and AVI High Quality HQ Image quality is improved but recording requires more space on the hard disk drive as compared to using SP or LP recording modes MPEG 1 MPEG 2 and AVI Long Play LP Image quality is reduced but recording requires less space on the hard disk drive as compared to using HQ recording mode MPEG 1 New Timer Recording Set Stop Time and Recording Mode 6 From the New Time...

Page 42: ... disk drive Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder enables you to set an expiration date for your Video Capsules to be automatically deleted 8 Click Decide to review your setting preferences The New Timer Recording Confirm dialog box appears Click Next New Timer Recording Confirm 9 The New Timer Recording Completed dialog box appears Click Finish New Timer Recording Completed dialog box Page 42 ...

Page 43: ...econds sooner than the set stop time Scheduled daily or weekly timer recording sessions do not occur if your hard disk drive does not have sufficient space Giga Pocket software does not allow a new Video Capsule to be created if there is less than 100 MB of free space on the hard disk drive These scheduled events resume at their scheduled time as hard disk drive space becomes available Approximate...

Page 44: ... Recording Manager application is available For the Timer Recorder Manager application to be available your computer should be in Stand by or Hibernate mode if the system is not in active use You can schedule up to 100 programs at a time for timer recording with the Timer Recording Manager Microsoft Windows XP operating system supports a single Giga Pocket user at any given time If a different use...

Page 45: ...errupt Current Recording button Stops the current timer recording Use this option when you wish to end the current recording session Timer Recording List Displays a list of timer recordings that have been performed as well as pending timer recordings If a daily weekly timer recording is set only the current recording session is shown The total number of timer recordings displayed does not exceed 1...

Page 46: ...er recording using Giga Pocket software always use the Timer Recording Manager If the Timer Recording Manager is not set up the recording does not start even if you set the timer recording settings with the Timer Recording Wizard Your computer s default setting enables Timer Recording Manager to start automatically when the computer is started The timer recording starts a few seconds earlier than ...

Page 47: ...s Giga Pocket Explorer main window Using the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar functions From the Giga Pocket Explorer toolbar you can Launch Giga Pocket to play a selected Video Capsule or Playlist Launch Timer Recording Wizard to set up timer recordings Launch Click to DVD software to burn Video Capsules to DVD recordable media See Click to DVD software Help for more details Launch DVgate Plus softwa...

Page 48: ...r additional information about using Click to DVD software features follow these steps to access the Click to DVD Help 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar point to All Programs 2 Point to DVgate Plus and click DVgate Plus Help Page 48 ...

Page 49: ... The Click to DVD software must be installed in order to burn Video Capsules to recordable DVD media 1 From the Giga Pocket Explorer main window select the Video Capsules you want to burn onto a DVD 2 On the Giga Pocket Explorer Toolbar click Make DVD 3 The Click to DVD software launches Follow the on screen instructions Page 49 ...

Page 50: ...formats may not be available depending on the recording mode that was used to create the Video Capsule Additional information about using Giga Pocket Explorer Video Capsules that are recorded using High Quality HQ or Standard Play SP mode can be converted and exported as MPEG 1 MPEG 2 and AVI files MPEG 2 files need a specific system environment for playback A VAIO computer that has Giga Pocket Pe...

Page 51: ... Disconnect Server dialog box 2 Select the server you want to connect to from the Server list on the left side 3 Click Connect to add the selected server to the Connected Server list then click OK The server is connected 4 To disconnect repeat step 1 then select the server you want to disconnect from the Connected Server list on the right 5 Click Disconnect then click OK The server is disconnected...

Page 52: ...r to use the CLIÉ Converter plug in application make sure you have install all required software for the CLIÉ handheld The Sony CLIÉ Handheld personal entertainment organizers provide a rich and compelling handheld computing experience Powered by the Palm operating system the CLIÉ handheld is ready to deliver music and video with amazing clarity For more information on this exciting device go to t...

Page 53: ... 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs 2 Point to Giga Pocket point to Plug ins and then click CLIÉ Converter The Giga Pocket CLIÉ Converter dialog box appears Giga Pocket CLIÉ Converter main Page 53 ...

Page 54: ...o display the contents in the list area 5 Drag the Video Capsule from the Giga Pocket Explorer window and drop it in the list area of the Giga Pocket CLIÉ Converter main dialog box The Video Capsule automatically converts into a video file During conversion the Convert to CLIÉ dialog box appears displaying the conversion status When conversion is complete the dialog box automatically closes The co...

Page 55: ...operation You can transfer your converted video files directly to your CLIÉ Handheld when you launch a HotSync operation 1 From the Giga Pocket CLIÉ Converter main window click to select the videos you want to transfer using the HotSync operation 2 Click Send To The Send To dialog box appears 3 Select Using HotSync as the transfer destination Designate a user name if applicable to your handheld s ...

Page 56: ...on date of Video Capsules and their thumbnails This information is required for preview MPEG file A file that contains compressed moving pictures using the MPEG standard with mpg as the file name extension Safety Tab Removing the safety tab from a Video Capsule prevents accidental erasing of your video data Slip play This feature allows you to view delayed video playback While your recording is in...

Page 57: ...Giga Pocket Help For more information about Giga Pocket follow these steps 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and point to All Programs 2 Point to Giga Pocket point to Help and then select Giga Pocket Help Page 57 ...

Page 58: ...recordings and record your favorite TV programs1 Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder must be set up and configured correctly before you can use the Internet Electronic Program Guide service You must read and accept the User Agreement before accessing the Internet Electronic Program Guide Web site first time only The Internet Electronic Program Guide service is available only to users in the United...

Page 59: ...r TV services available in your area 5 Select your TV provider and then click Confirm Channel Lineup The Confirm Lineup window appears listing available channels by number and name 6 Click Yes if the channel lineup is correct Otherwise click No and repeat steps 3 and 4 until you locate the correct channel lineup 7 Your TV listings appear in table format organized by time and channel Click Download...

Page 60: ... information about managing your computer s hard disk drive performance using i LINK devices Memory Stick media PC Cards and changing default settings About i LINK Compatibility About the Memory Stick Media Slot About the PC Card Slot VAIO Action Setup Page 60 ...

Page 61: ...nnect your digital device A 4 pin i LINK port does not supply power to a connected i LINK device i LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection The i LINK connection may vary depending on the software applications operating system and compatible i LINK devices All products with an i LINK connection may not communicate with each other Please ref...

Page 62: ...patible i LINK device and on your computer Plug the i LINK cable connector into this port 2 Plug the other end of the cable into the corresponding 4 or 6 pin i LINK port on your computer See the instructions that came with your i LINK device for more information on installation and use Page 62 ...

Page 63: ...VAIO Action Setup VAIO Action Setup manages the settings for your computer s Shortcut keys S Keys Page 63 ...

Page 64: ... to launch the following applications S1 Help VAIO Help and Support Center S2 Mail Microsoft Outlook Express S3 Internet Microsoft Internet Explorer S4 Music SonicStage S5 TV Giga Pocket S6 Picture PictureGear Studio PCV W series keyboard Page 64 ...

Page 65: ...he Windows taskbar to launch VAIO Action Setup 3 Click the S Key you want to change 4 From the Select Application dialog box click the option for the desired type of function The corresponding applications appear in the list box on the right 5 Select an application from the list Click Next You can drag an application to place it into the list box 6 The Confirmation Application Name window appears ...

Page 66: ...About the Memory Stick Media Slot Your VAIO computer is equipped with a Memory Stick slot that supports certain types of Memory Stick media Page 66 ...

Page 67: ...with compatible Memory Stick PRO devices VAIO computers support Memory Stick PRO media for data storage purposes only Currently high speed data transfer and the MagicGate technology features such as authentication and encryption are not available You can store different data formats on a single Memory Stick media Memory Stick media Provides data storage only The Memory Stick media does not provide...

Page 68: ...mory Stick media slot located on the left panel Inserting a Memory Stick media 2 If the media does not insert easily remove it from the slot and verify that it is not upside down or backwards Carefully reinsert the Memory Stick media but do not force it into the slot Page 68 ...

Page 69: ... Stick slot The media extends further enabling you to grasp it Removing a Memory Stick Media 2 Carefully remove the Memory Stick media from the slot Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the media access indicator light is on The media or its data may become damaged Memory Stick media do not support AVI file playback Copy the AVI file to your hard disk drive before attempting to play back the...

Page 70: ...d on your Memory Stick media When you slide the write protect tab to the LOCK position your Memory Stick media is write protected You cannot delete copy or save information on the media while the write protect tab in the LOCK position When you slide the tab to the un LOCK position you can write to or modify your Memory Stick media s contents Locking the Memory Stick Media Page 70 ...

Page 71: ...computer has a card bus PC Card slot that supports Type I or Type II PC PCMCIA Cards You do not need to shut down your computer when inserting a PC Card For more information see the instructions supplied with your PC Card Page 71 ...

Page 72: ...C Card gently into the slot The card is automatically detected and the Safely Remove Hardware icon appears in the Windows taskbar If the PC Card does not insert easily remove it from the PC Card slot and verify that it is not upside down or backwards Carefully reinsert the PC Card without forcing it into the slot Page 72 ...

Page 73: ... Device window appears Click OK 4 When the message Safe to Remove Hardware appears push the PC Card Eject button on the right panel of the system unit Be sure to extend the Eject button out from the computer before attempting to eject the card Removing a PC Card 5 When the PC Card ejects from the PC Card slot remove the card by holding the edges and pulling it out carefully If you remove the PC Ca...

Page 74: ...n the future you may want to increase the functionality of your VAIO computer This section provides information about upgrading and maintaining your system Overview Installing Memory Replacing the Lithium Battery Replacing a Hard Disk Drive Page 74 ...

Page 75: ...omputer Your local dealer is knowledgeable of this specialized personal computer and familiar with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment To view the hardware configuration for your computer see the online specifications sheet Page 75 ...

Page 76: ...with all of the hardware features mentioned in this section The interior configuration of your system may vary from the illustrations depending on the computer purchased Electrostatic discharge ESD can damage disk drives add on cards and other components Follow the procedures described in this section only at an ESD workstation If such a station is not available do not work in a carpeted area and ...

Page 77: ... you purchased Your computer may ship with all available memory slots filled See the online specifications sheet for details about the memory installed in your computer Observe the proper safety precautions when you add or remove the memory in your computer See Before upgrading your computer Page 77 ...

Page 78: ...r printer 2 Unplug your computer and disconnect any peripheral devices 3 Locate and press the release button on the side of the system unit cover Locating the cover release button 4 With the release button depressed slide the cover to the right and lift away from the system unit Removing the cover Page 78 ...

Page 79: ...e the memory module s you wish to remove 2 Push down on the latches located on both sides of the module to gently eject it from the slot Removing a memory module 3 Hold the module by the sides and store it in a static free bag Page 79 ...

Page 80: ...t Installing a memory module 3 Firmly insert the bottom edge of the module into the slot 4 Press down evenly against the module s upper corners The side latches snap into position holding the memory module in place To avoid damaging a memory module or the memory module slot move the side latches slightly outward to relieve pressure The module is properly inserted when the side latches click into p...

Page 81: ...acing the system unit cover 1 Align the tabs on the cover to the tracks on the system unit s chassis 2 Gently slide the cover to the left until the tabs lock the cover into place Replacing the cover Page 81 ...

Page 82: ...ing a Hard Disk Drive Your computer has an installed ATA 100 3 inch hard disk drive Do not attempt to replace the hard drive Contact your local dealer for replacement or upgrade of the hard disk drive Page 82 ...

Page 83: ...on Recovery CD Assembly 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Go to the Sony Direct Accessories and Parts Center Web site at http servicesales sel sony com 3 In the section Search by Model for Accessories type in your computer model and click List Parts and accessories 4 From the list of accessories locate the Partition Recovery ASSY and click the option Add to Cart 5 Click Continue to Check Out and follow ...

Page 84: ...replaced incorrectly Contact your local dealer to replace the lithium battery Replace the battery only with a CR2032 type lithium battery Dispose of the lithium battery properly In some areas the disposal of lithium batteries in household or business trash may be prohibited You can return your unwanted lithium batteries to your nearest Sony Service Center or Factory Service Center To locate a Serv...

Page 85: ...d preinstalled software Your computer may not be equipped with all of the features or software discussed in this section depending on the system configuration purchased About VAIO Computer Functions About Using the Optical Disc Drive s About the Mouse and Keyboard About the Modem About the Speakers About Using a Microphone About Using Peripheral Equipment Page 85 ...

Page 86: ...ed the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working Verify that the monitor is plugged into a power source and turned on If your system has a built in monitor confirm that it is plugged into an appropriate power source and that the system is turned on Verify that the brightness or contrast control dials are adjusted corre...

Page 87: ...ed the computer into a power strip or Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working Verify that the monitor is plugged into a power source and turned on If your system has a built in monitor confirm that it is plugged into an appropriate power source and that the system is turned on Verify that the brightness or contrast control dials are adjusted corre...

Page 88: ...ot respond or the application does not close try the following steps 1 Save any open files if possible 2 Press the Alt F4 keys The Turn Off Computer window appears 3 Click Restart If your computer still does not respond and you cannot restart shut down your computer by pressing and holding the power button for more than six seconds If the software application continues to stop responding or causes...

Page 89: ...ubleshooting information you can search Windows Help 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and select Help and Support The VAIO Help And Support Center menu appears 2 Select Fixing a Problem and then select Startup and Shut Down problems A list of specific problem topics appears on the right side of the dialog box 3 Select Startup and Shutdown Troubleshooter Follow the on screen instructions accord...

Page 90: ...ny applications that you are not currently using Increasing the system memory may also help For information on installing memory please see the online VAIO User Guide To access the online User Guide 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and then click Help and Support 2 From the VAIO Help And Support Center menu click VAIO User Guide Page 90 ...

Page 91: ... in the Windows taskbar and then select Control Panel 2 Select Appearance and Themes and then select Change the screen resolution 3 Click the Settings tab 4 Change the Screen resolution and Color quality to the desired levels 5 Click Apply and then click OK Page 91 ...

Page 92: ...This section describes how to troubleshoot common problems you may encounter when using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder functions Many problems have simple solutions so try these suggestions before you contact Sony Customer Support Page 92 ...

Page 93: ...lay or are not displayed correctly These images include Images from a playback screen that is in pause mode Menu screens of the connected video player device The end of the film roll being played back using the scroll bar Video output from a video game console Video output from a VCR using a coaxial cable Giga Pocket cannot record or display all video images from this source Page 93 ...

Page 94: ...uch as When you change the channel on the video player device If there is a damaged section on your video tape When using Giga Pocket Personal Video Recorder set your display settings as follows Colors Use the default factory settings 32 bit Screen area Set your video resolution to 1024 x 768 pixels If you use other settings you may experience poor image quality on your display Page 94 ...

Page 95: ... Video Capsule while recording a TV program with Giga Pocket During a timer recording Giga Pocket may interrupt or stop your Video Capsule playback to prioritize your computer s resources for the timer recording If this occurs wait until the timer recording session has completed and then play back the Video Capsule Page 95 ...

Page 96: ...low The timer recording may fail in certain situations such as The coaxial cable input is disconnected after recording has started The TV channel has lost broadcast signal during the recording session Video content being recorded has poor signal quality Page 96 ...

Page 97: ...ur on screen display may shift or split in rare instances If this should occur switch the TV Recording deck and the playback deck or try switching the channel Your timer recording continues even if the on screen display has shifted or split Page 97 ...

Page 98: ...ate new Video Capsules You cannot create a new Video Capsule when the remaining free space on your hard disk drive reaches approximately 100 MB Delete any unnecessary Video Capsules or files to increase the free space on your hard drive Page 98 ...

Page 99: ... Optical Disc Drive s Your computer may not be equipped with all of the hardware features listed in this section To view the specific hardware configuration for your system see the online specifications sheet Page 99 ...

Page 100: ... Computer icon 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar then select My Computer 2 Right click the appropriate optical drive icon 3 Select Eject from the shortcut menu Avoid using adhesive labels to identify your CD or DVD media Adhesive labels may come off while the CD or DVD media is in use in your optical drive s and may cause damage to the unit Page 100 ...

Page 101: ...s instructions If your drive reads some DVDs or CDs but not others check the shiny side of the disc for dirt or scratches The preinstalled CD or DVD software may not be working properly To recover this software see the online guide VAIO Recovery Options for more information To access VAIO Recovery Options follow these steps 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click Help and Support 2 From the...

Page 102: ...f you see video but cannot hear audio check all of the following 1 Verify that your DVD player s mute feature is turned off 2 Check the master volume setting in the Audio Mixer 3 Check the volume settings on your computer speakers 4 Check the connections between your speakers and the computer 5 Verify that drivers are installed properly by following these steps 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar...

Page 103: ... to malfunction If the cursor is not moving properly try using the mouse on another mousing surface or using a mouse pad If you are using a trackball mouse there may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism To clean the mouse follow these steps Save and close all applications and turn off your computer Turn the mouse upside down Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by turning clo...

Page 104: ... to malfunction If the cursor is not moving properly try using the mouse on another mousing surface or using a mouse pad If you are using a trackball mouse there may be dust or dirt inside the mouse mechanism To clean the mouse follow these steps Save and close all applications and turn off your computer Turn the mouse upside down Remove the mouse ball cover on the back of the mouse by turning clo...

Page 105: ...ws taskbar then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware then click Mouse The Mouse Properties dialog box appears 3 From the Buttons tab select Switch primary and secondary buttons under the Button Configuration options 4 Click Apply then click OK Page 105 ...

Page 106: ...that the keyboard1 is securely plugged into the keyboard port Save and close all open applications Turn off your computer wait approximately 10 seconds and then restart your computer 1 The V A IO W series computer has a built in keyboard Page 106 ...

Page 107: ...SP check the following Contact your telephone company and ask them to verify that your telephone line is free from 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 For optimum performance verify that your ISP point of presence POP telephone number is compliant with V 90 standards If you are hav...

Page 108: ...SP check the following Contact your telephone company and ask them to verify that your telephone line is free from 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 For optimum performance verify that your ISP point of presence POP telephone number is compliant with V 90 standards If you are hav...

Page 109: ...the modem If it appears that your modem is not functioning properly check the device status 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware and then select Phone and Modem Options 3 From the Modems tab click to select your modem 4 Click Properties The Modem Properties window appears 5 Review the information in the Device status section If your mode...

Page 110: ... Click Start in the Windows taskbar then click Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware then click Phone and Modem options 3 From the Dialing Rules tab click Edit The Edit Location dialog box appears 4 Select the Tone or Pulse option Click OK Page 110 ...

Page 111: ... Panel 2 Select Sounds Speech and Audio Devices then click Adjust the system volume 3 From the Volume tab adjust the Device volume by moving the slider bar to the desired sound level Verify that the Mute option is not selected Check that the Mute check box is not selected in the Windows volume control The sound driver s may not be working properly To recover your sound drivers see the online guide...

Page 112: ... Panel 2 Select Sounds Speech and Audio Devices then click Adjust the system volume 3 From the Volume tab adjust the Device volume by moving the slider bar to the desired sound level Verify that the Mute option is not selected Check that the Mute check box is not selected in the Windows volume control The sound driver s may not be working properly To recover your sound drivers see the online guide...

Page 113: ...About Using a Microphone Why doesn t my microphone work properly Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack Page 113 ...

Page 114: ...About Using a Microphone Why doesn t my microphone work properly Check that the microphone is plugged into the Microphone jack Page 114 ...

Page 115: ...ate the Sound recording section and click Volume The Recording Control dialog box appears If the volume control for the microphone is visible skip to step 6 4 Select the Options menu and click Properties The Properties dialog box appears 5 In the section Show the following volume controls select the Recording option Click OK 6 From the Recording Control dialog box decrease the microphone volume le...

Page 116: ... Printer then click Next Place a check mark in the box for Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play printer if you are installing a recently manufactured printer with Plug and Play capability 5 Select the appropriate port usually LPT1 and then click Next 6 Select the appropriate printer manufacturer and model 7 Follow the on screen instructions to print a test page and complete printer in...

Page 117: ... Printer then click Next Place a check mark in the box for Automatically detect and install my Plug and Play printer if you are installing a recently manufactured printer with Plug and Play capability 5 Select the appropriate port usually LPT1 and then click Next 6 Select the appropriate printer manufacturer and model 7 Follow the on screen instructions to print a test page and complete printer in...

Page 118: ...y when the computer resumes from a power saving mode Clear the printer memory by turning the printer off for approximately 10 seconds and then turning it back on If your printer does not resume normal operations try restarting your computer Page 118 ...

Page 119: ...s using storage media and locating upgrade procedures A support resource listing is also provided to help you locate the appropriate support options About the Power Source About Disposing of the Lithium Battery About Handling the Computer System About Handling a Monitor Display About Recording and Data Storage Media Page 119 ...

Page 120: ...s you may want to purchase an Uninterruptible Power Supply UPS This device contains both a surge protector and a battery backup The surge protector prevents damage to your computer caused by power surges The battery backup safeguards your data during a brief period of power loss The power control button on the front panel does not turn off the system AC power To remove power from the system you mu...

Page 121: ...nge the display setup while Giga Pocket is running or your system may operate improperly Hard disk drive When the available free space on your hard disk approaches 100 MB you are not able to create a new Video Capsule Delete unnecessary Video Capsules or files in order to increase available space on your hard disk drive If you directly delete move or rename a file in the D Giga Pocket folder Giga ...

Page 122: ...Service Center or Factory Service Center For the Sony Service Center nearest you visit the Sony Computing Support Web site at http www sony com pcsupport Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium batteries The lithium battery may explode if mistreated Do not disassemble it or dispose of it in fire Replace the battery with a Sony CR2032 lithium battery Using a type of battery other than a CR2032 may...

Page 123: ...onnel before operating it any further Use only specified peripheral equipment and interface cables otherwise problems may result Do not use cut or damaged connection cables Always switch the power off before connecting your computer to peripheral equipment otherwise damage may occur to the integrated circuits in your computer Your computer keyboard and mouse consist of high precision electronic pa...

Page 124: ...ar a strong magnetic force Do not block the ventilation slots on the display 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 image disappears after...

Page 125: ...maining moisture with a dry soft cloth Using Memory Stick media MagicGate Memory Stick and Memory Stick PRO media are the only media that support MagicGate technology Currently Sony SonicStage and OpenMG software are not compatible with the new Memory Stick PRO media Sony suggests using only the MagicGate Memory Stick media to store and transfer any data created with SonicStage and OpenMG software...

Page 126: ...p solve common problems or to locate support for your VAIO computer This section describes all available resources and offers suggestions on how to access this information for maximum results Immediate Help and Support Help and Support Resources Page 126 ...

Page 127: ...taskbar then click Help and Support 2 From the VAIO Help And Support Center menu click VAIO User Guide Specifications The online specifications sheet describes the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO computer To view this online information 1 Click Start in the Windows taskbar and click Help and Support 2 From the VAIO Help And Support Center menu click VAIO User Guide 3 Locate the li...

Page 128: ...Information about your specific model computer such as hardware and software specifications upgrade and maintenance procedures safety and legal information quick solutions to common problems An automated tutorial library that contains interactive easy to understand lessons on using your computer s hardware and software features Links that enable you to quickly find the nearest Sony service center ...

Page 129: ... appropriate software contact information 6 Brief description of the issue For VAIO computers purchased in the U S and Canada contact a Sony Support representative at 1 888 476 6972 1 The serial number is located on the back panel of your computer The serial number is on a white barcode label Page 129 ...

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