Sony Vaio VGC-V Series User Manual Download

Page: 89 / 158

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

This section briefly describes how to change the main settings of your computer.

❑

Setting the Password

(page 90)

❑

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center

(page 92)

❑

Using the Power Saving Modes

(page 93)

Summary of Contents for Vaio VGC-V Series

Page 1: ...N User Guide Personal Computer V G C V s e r i e s ...

Page 2: ...e Power Cord 15 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely 17 Using Your VAIO Computer 18 Using the Keyboard 19 Using the Pointing Device on Selected Models Only 31 Using the Mouse 33 Using Special function Buttons 38 Using the Optical Disc Drive 39 Using the TV Function 47 Using PC Cards 56 Using the Memory Stick Media 60 Using the Internet 67 Using Wireless LAN WLAN 68 ...

Page 3: ...k LAN 87 Customizing Your VAIO Computer 89 Setting the Password 90 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center 92 Using the Power Saving Modes 93 Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 97 Adding and Removing Memory 98 Precautions 109 On Handling the LCD Screen 110 On Using the Power Source 111 On Handling Your Computer 112 On Handling Floppy Disks 113 On Handling Discs 114 On Using Headphones 114 On H...

Page 4: ... 128 CDs and DVDs 130 Display 133 Printing 134 Microphone 135 Mouse 136 Speakers 137 Pointing Device 138 Keyboard 140 Floppy Disks 141 PC Cards 142 Audio Video 143 Memory Stick Media 144 Peripherals 145 Support Options 146 Sony Support Information 146 Program Support Information 149 ...

Page 5: ...c Safety information Contains safety guidelines and owner information Non printed Documentation User Guide this manual Contains features of your computer It also includes information about the software programs included with your computer as well as information on solving common problems Specifications The online Specifications sheet describes the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO c...

Page 6: ...ams software drivers and drive partition s or your entire hard disk drive to the original factory installed settings To access this online software information 1 Click Start point to All Programs and click VAIO Control Center 2 Click the Categories tab and then the Documentation folder 3 Click Recovery Guide ...

Page 7: ...le position 3 while using the keyboard pointing device or external mouse Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides Have breaks during sessions with your computer Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are flat on the floor A footrest may make you more comfortable Sit i...

Page 8: ...e 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 Ventilation Make sure you leave at least 10 inches 25 cm of space behind and on each side of the main unit When you lif...

Page 9: ...g Started This section describes how to get started with using your VAIO computer Locating Controls and Ports page 10 About the Indicator Lights page 14 Connecting the Power Cord page 15 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely page 17 ...

Page 10: ...tify the controls and ports shown on the following pages Front A Infrared receiver VGC V620G only page 77 B Hard disk drive indicator page 14 C Memory Stick media indicator page 14 D Power indicator page 14 E Stereo speakers F Infrared receiver VGC V617G V600MG only page 77 ...

Page 11: ...11 n N Getting Started Back A Back panel cover removable page 100 B Back panel cover release tab page 101 C Cable guides ...

Page 12: ... page 14 H Headphones jack page 76 I Microphone jack page 80 J i LINK IEEE1394 S400 port page 85 K Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports 2 page 81 L CONNECT button page 19 page 33 M WIRELESS LAN indicator page 14 N WIRELESS LAN switch page 68 O AC In port page 15 P Power cord hook page 15 1 Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick Pro high speed and high capacity capabilities 2 Supports...

Page 13: ...page 47 C VHF UHF port page 47 D i LINK IEEE 1394 S400 port page 85 E Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 81 F Network Ethernet port 100BASE TX 10BASE T page 87 G Modem port page 67 H S PDIF Optical Out port for connecting digital equipment such as an AV amplifier I Line In jack for connecting audio equipment Supports high full low speeds ...

Page 14: ...emory Stick media Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on When the indicator is off the Memory Stick media is not being used Optical disc drive Illuminates when data is read from or written to the optical disc When the indicator is off the optical disc is not being used Hard disk Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk Do not enter Standb...

Page 15: ... UPS before you can establish communication with your wireless keyboard and wireless mouse To connect the power cord 1 Insert the power cord into the AC In port 1 on the back panel of the computer 2 Pass the power cord cable over the power cord hook 2 located next to the AC In port 3 Insert the power cord plug into a grounded AC wall outlet surge protector or Universal Power Supply UPS 3 ...

Page 16: ...hat the AC outlet is easily accessible If you are interrupted and need to leave your computer suddenly put your computer into Hibernate mode See Using Hibernate Mode page 96 This power saving mode saves you the time of shutting down in the normal way Use the power cord hook located on the right side of the computer to avoid accidentally unplugging your computer ...

Page 17: ...ow To shut down your computer 1 Turn off any peripherals connected to your computer 2 Click Start and then Turn Off Computer The Turn off computer window appears 3 Click Turn Off 4 Respond to any prompts warning you to save documents or to consider other users and wait for your computer to turn off automatically The power indicator light turns off ...

Page 18: ...Using the Keyboard page 19 Using the Pointing Device on Selected Models Only page 31 Using the Mouse page 33 Using Special function Buttons page 38 Using the Optical Disc Drive page 39 Using the TV Function page 47 Using PC Cards page 56 Using the Memory Stick Media page 60 Using the Internet page 67 Using Wireless LAN WLAN page 68 ...

Page 19: ...ou can place the keyboard anywhere you find comfortable within a range of approximately 32 feet 10 m for VGC V620G or 2 5 feet 80 cm for VGC V617G V600MG from the main unit For more information on the standard keys see Windows Help and Support Center and click on the Customizing your computer link ...

Page 20: ...erform certain tasks These tasks vary among software programs E Windows key The Microsoft Windows key displays the Start menu Pressing this key is equivalent to clicking Start on the taskbar F Pointing device and buttons Use the input area to move the pointer on the computer screen The left and right buttons provide the same functions as wireless mouse buttons G Applications key The Applications k...

Page 21: ...Your VAIO Computer A Keyboard feet Extend to adjust the keyboard height B CONNECT button Press to enable the keyboard to communicate with the main unit C Battery compartment Storage compartment for the AA batteries ...

Page 22: ... 38 C Numeric keypad Use the numeric keypad to type numbers or to perform basic math calculations Press the Num Lock key to enable the numeric keypad function Press the Num Lock key again to disable the numeric keypad D Fn key Use the Fn key with the function keys to perform certain tasks These tasks vary among software programs E Windows key The Microsoft Windows key displays the Start menu Press...

Page 23: ...Your VAIO Computer A Keyboard feet Extend to adjust the keyboard height B Battery compartment Storage compartment for the AA batteries C CONNECT button Press to enable the keyboard to communicate with the main unit ...

Page 24: ... the CONNECT button located on the right panel of the computer first and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the keyboard Avoid using radio controlled toys or equipment CB radios and other wireless devices in the area near your wireless keyboard These devices may cause interference causing your keyboard to stop working properly Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wireless...

Page 25: ...r 3 Slide the power switch 2 on the right hand side of the keyboard to turn on the keyboard 4 Press the CONNECT button 3 on the right panel of the computer 5 Press the CONNECT button 4 on the bottom of the keyboard Communication between the wireless keyboard and the computer is now active Steps 4 and 5 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other ...

Page 26: ...26 n N Using Your VAIO Computer ...

Page 27: ...s keyboard 2 Turn on the computer 3 Press the CONNECT button 2 on the right panel of the computer 4 Press the CONNECT button 3 on the bottom of the keyboard Communication between the wireless keyboard and the computer is now active Steps 3 and 4 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other ...

Page 28: ...28 n N Using Your VAIO Computer ...

Page 29: ...e properly the batteries may need to be replaced If your wireless keyboard is not being used for extended periods of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage If you want to put the keyboard in a more ergonomical position open the keyboard feet ...

Page 30: ...and the headphones Fn 2 F3 F4 speaker volume Adjusts the built in speaker volume To increase volume press Fn F4 and then M or or keep pressing Fn F4 To decrease volume press Fn F3 and then m or or keep pressing Fn F3 Fn 8 F5 F6 brightness control Adjusts the brightness of the LCD To increase lightness intensity press Fn F6 and then M or or keep pressing Fn F6 To decrease lightness intensity press ...

Page 31: ...lect and drag objects on the screen using the built in pointing device Action Description Point Slide one finger on the pointing device to place the pointer 2 on an item or object Click Press the left button 3 once Double click Press the left button twice Right click Press the right button 4 once In many applications this action displays a shortcut menu Drag and select Slide one finger while press...

Page 32: ... activate it To activate the pointing device 1 Fold the keyboard out 2 Slide the POINTING DEVICE switch 1 to ON position 3 Close the lower part of the cover as shown in 2 You can now use the pointing device together with your keyboard 4 If you only want to use the pointing device close the cover completely as shown in 3 ...

Page 33: ...ft button down while sliding the mouse then release the button to drop the item B Central wheel Rotate the central wheel to scroll up or down a page Press the wheel once to lock the scroll action and control the movement by moving the entire mouse the scroll function is available only with applications that support it C Right button Press the right button once to display a context sensitive shortc...

Page 34: ...irst and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the mouse Avoid using radio controlled toys or equipment CB radios and other wireless devices in the area near your wireless mouse These devices may cause interference causing your mouse to stop working properly Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wireless mouse as this may create interference causing your mouse to stop working...

Page 35: ...35 n N Using Your VAIO Computer To connect the wireless mouse 1 Insert the two specific AA batteries into the wireless mouse as shown 2 Turn on the computer 3 Press the CONNECT button 1 on the computer ...

Page 36: ...nd 4 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other Two AA batteries specific for use in the wireless mouse are supplied with your computer They are identified by a sticker For mouse on the packaging If your wireless mouse does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced If your wireless mouse is not being used for an extended period of time remove the batteries to avoid possible...

Page 37: ...s and Other Hardware 3 Click the Mouse The Mouse Properties window appears 4 Change the settings To set up your mouse for left handed users 1 Click the Buttons tab on the Mouse Properties window 2 Select the option button next to Switch primary and secondary buttons 3 Click OK The new mouse settings are now active ...

Page 38: ...on button Functions Standby button Places the computer in Standby mode Press the power button or the Standby button briefly to resume normal operation S buttons Press to activate specific applications You can also link to these shortcut buttons another action that you execute often See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 92 Brightness buttons Press increase or decrease the brigh...

Page 39: ...g Your VAIO Computer Using the Optical Disc Drive Your computer is equipped with an optical disc drive To insert a disc 1 Turn on the computer 2 Press the drive eject button 1 to open the drive The tray slides out ...

Page 40: ... place it in the middle of the tray with the label facing toward the front of the computer until the disc clicks into place The disc tray is equipped with components sensitive to static electricity on its back Keep your fingers away from those components when placing a disc on the tray ...

Page 41: ...gently Do not remove the optical disc when the computer is in a power saving mode Standby or Hibernate Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction If you plan to use an external optical disc drive connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled CD DVD program ...

Page 42: ...Sony VAIO computer be sure to read the notices on the disc packaging carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer s optical disc drives Sony does NOT guarantee the compatibility of VAIO CD drives with discs that not compliant with the official CD format standard or DVD standard in relation to DVD drives USING NON COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAI...

Page 43: ... software application to burn discs make sure you exit and close all other applications Never touch the surface of the disc Fingerprints and dust on the surface of a disc may cause writing errors Do not switch power modes while using the pre installed software and while using the CD burning software Never put stickers on discs This will affect the use of the disc irreparably Some DVD players and c...

Page 44: ... connected this may damage your hearing and the speakers Reduce the volume before playing a DVD Do not switch power saving modes while the computer is playing a DVD Region code indicators are labeled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the disc If the DVD is labeled all this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the world If the region code...

Page 45: ...s or folder s point to Send To and click the optical disc drive name Drag the file s or folder s onto the optical disc drive icon in the Files Stored on This Computer panel 4 Close Windows Explorer 5 Click Start and then My Computer 6 Click the optical disc drive icon under Devices with Removable Storage A new window appears with the file s or folder s you want to copy listed under Files Ready to ...

Page 46: ...he DVD For instructions on how to use a program see the help guide included with the DVD software program Copying Files to DVDs To copy files to a DVD R or DVD RW 1 Insert the disc into the optical disc drive 2 Click Start and point to All Programs 3 Select a DVD software program you want to use from the submenu For instructions on how to use a program see the help guide included with the DVD soft...

Page 47: ...peated time Suspend viewing TV time shifting Stream your recorded TV contents via Ethernet or WLAN to connected PCs Sony cannot guarantee the streaming of recorded content if it is beyond a certain level of high quality To use the VAIO Zone software you need to connect your computer and TV and click Start and then VAIO Zone When starting the VAIO Zone software for the first time the VAIO Zone setu...

Page 48: ...ngth will vary widely depending on service availability in your area as well as the type of connection available One primary cable to connect your computer to a TV cable or antenna is the TV coaxial cable supplied with your computer One end connects to the computer s VHF UHF port and the other end connects to the cable service access or antenna Note that you need to slide the back panel cover up t...

Page 49: ...all outlet 2 2 Connect the other end of the coaxial cable to the VHF UHF port 3 on the computer To connect in CATV mode Option 2 1 Connect the two metal hooks on the 75 ohm 300 ohm RCA transformer cable 1 optional to your cable service access wall outlet 2 2 Connect the TV coaxial cable 3 supplied from the transformer end of the RCA transformer cable to the VHF UHF port 4 on the computer ...

Page 50: ...enna for best reception Move the antenna cable away from other power sources or connectors to reduce reception interference Your computer is supplied with certain audio and video cables Depending on your in home cable access you may require extra cables adapters or connection equipment not supplied with your computer To connect in terrestrial mode Option 1 1 Connect one end of a TV coaxial cable 1...

Page 51: ...le 1 to the screw type grips at your antenna outlet 2 Connect the other end to the grips on the VHF UHF RF combiner transformer 3 2 Connect the coaxial cable feed connector 4 optional to the VHF UHF RF combiner transformer 3 3 Connect the TV coaxial cable 5 supplied from the feed connector 4 to the VHF UHF port 6 on the computer ...

Page 52: ... through the STB using its controls or supplied remote commander When using the STB setup A standard TV remote control cannot be used to change TV channels You can use your TV remote control to set the TV to the channel out number channel 3 4 etc or direct video input specified by your cable or satellite service provider You may be able to use a universal remote control or commander to change TV c...

Page 53: ... 4 optional to the VHF UHF OUT jack on your STB unit 3 Connect the other end to the single connection end of a splitter device 5 optional 3 Connect a third TV coaxial cable 6 supplied to the double connection end of the splitter device 5 Connect the other end to the VHF UHF port 7 on the computer 4 Connect a fourth TV coaxial cable 8 optional to the double connection end of the splitter device 5 C...

Page 54: ...he other end to the VHF UHF port 5 on the rear of your TV monitor or display 3 Connect the double mini plugs of the audio cable 6 supplied to the Composite Audio Out L R jacks 7 on the back panel of your STB unit 3 matching the jack colors Connect the single plug end of the audio cable 6 to the Composite Audio In jack 8 on the computer 4 Connect one end of the S Video cable 9 optional to the Compo...

Page 55: ...55 n N Using Your VAIO Computer The video cable adapter supplied can be used with a video cable optional to connect your set top box to the computer s S Video In jack ...

Page 56: ...l devices Inserting a PC Card To insert a PC Card 1 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the label facing toward the front of the computer 2 Gently push the PC Card into the slot The PC Card is automatically detected by your system The Safely Remove Hardware icon appears on the taskbar ...

Page 57: ...d before your computer enters Hibernate mode Some PC Cards or their functions may not be compatible with your computer Make sure you 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 window remove the software driver and then reinstall it Do not force a PC Card into the slot It may damage the connector pin...

Page 58: ...ardware window appears 2 Select the hardware you want to unplug 3 Click Stop The Stop a Hardware Device window appears 4 Confirm that the device can be safely removed from the system 5 Click OK A window appears explaining that it is safe to remove the device 6 Click OK 7 Click Close 8 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out 9 Push the PC Card release button a second tim...

Page 59: ... when it is still turned on your system could malfunction and you might lose any unsaved data Before you remove the PC Card click the PC Card icon on the taskbar and close the card Close any applications that use the PC Card before removing the card Otherwise data may be lost ...

Page 60: ...at http www sony com pcsupport for customers in USA and Canada or at http kdb sony latin com for customers in Latin American countries or areas Write protecting a Memory Stick Media Some versions of Memory Stick media are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwriting Move the tab horizontally or vertically to set or release write protect...

Page 61: ...emory Stick Media There are two ways you can insert a Memory Stick media into your computer Using the Memory Stick media slot Using a PC Card slot To do this you need an optional PC Card adapter You can only insert one Memory Stick media at a time ...

Page 62: ...f your computer and insert it into the Memory Stick media slot in the direction of the arrow 2 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and appears in your My Computer window as a local drive under the appropriate letter depending on the configuration of your computer ...

Page 63: ...Memory Stick media do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot if it does not insert smoothly Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the Memory Stick media slot Inserting the media improperly may damage the computer Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media For more information on Memory Stick Duo media visit the Memory Stick web site at http www memorystick com en ...

Page 64: ...choose to view print copy or organize your images or data stored on the Memory Stick media If the Memory Stick window does not appear when you insert the Memory Stick media follow these steps To view the contents 1 Click Start and then My Computer The My Computer window appears 2 Click Memory Stick The Memory Stick window appears displaying the contents stored on the Memory Stick media ...

Page 65: ... the Memory Stick Formatter help file Formatting Memory Stick media erases all data previously saved to it Before you reformat Memory Stick media confirm that the media does not contain files you want to keep Back up important data before formatting the media To format a Memory Stick media 1 Click Start point to All Programs Memory Stick Utility and click Memory Stick Formatter The Memory Stick Fo...

Page 66: ...ia in toward the computer The Memory Stick media ejects 3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot Always remove the Memory Stick media gently or it may pop out unexpectedly Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Memory Stick media indicator is turned on If you do you may lose data Large volumes of data may take time to load so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Sti...

Page 67: ...with party lines cannot be connected to a coin operated telephone and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange PBX Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter the modem or connected device may not work properly To set up a dial up conne...

Page 68: ...i Alliance WiFi Protected Access is a specification of standards based interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing WiFi networks WPA has been designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE802 11i specification It utilizes the enhanced data encryption TKIP Temporal Key Integrity Protocol in addition to user authentication using 802...

Page 69: ...es in the network You can set up an ad hoc network easily at home To communicate without an Access Point ad hoc 1 Turn on the WIRELESS LAN switch The WIRELESS LAN indicator lights up 2 Click Start and then Control Panel 3 Click Network and Internet Connections 4 Click Network Connections The Network Connections window appears 5 Right click Wireless Network Connection then click Properties The Wire...

Page 70: ...Network key 1 The network key should be 5 or 13 alphanumeric characters or 10 or 26 hexadecimal 2 characters long You can choose whatever you want 13 Enter exactly the same Network key again for confirmation 14 Select the check box This is a computer to computer ad hoc network wireless access points are not used at the bottom of the screen 15 Click OK Your Network name appears in the Preferred net...

Page 71: ...oc network does not support WPA To disconnect from a computer to computer ad hoc network 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Network and Internet Connections 3 Click Network Connections The Network Connections window appears 4 In the right panel under LAN or High Speed Internet double click Wireless Network Connection The Wireless Network Connection Status window appears 5 Click Propertie...

Page 72: ...s transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range To connect to a wireless network Use the VAIO Wireless Utility to guide you through the set up process and provide you with more detailed information about wireless connections 1 Make sure an access point is set up See the instructions that accompanied the access point for more information 2 Turn on the WIRELESS LA...

Page 73: ...disconnect from a wireless network Turn off the WIRELESS LAN switch Turning off the wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents files or resources may result in data loss The WPA key needs to contain at least 8 characters ...

Page 74: ...erference may cause lower communication speed narrower communication range or broken wireless connections The communication speed varies depending on the distance between communication devices existence of obstacles between such devices the device configuration the radio conditions and the software in use In addition communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions The communication...

Page 75: ...using the various ports on your unit Connecting External Speakers page 76 Using the Remote Commander page 77 Connecting an External Microphone page 80 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device page 81 Connecting a Printer page 84 Connecting an i LINK Device page 85 Connecting to a Network LAN page 87 ...

Page 76: ... external speakers 1 Plug the speaker cable 1 into the headphones jack 2 i 2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker 3 3 Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use Do not place floppy disks on the speakers their magnetic field may damage the data on the disks ...

Page 77: ...nnels Press the ENTER button to activate channel selection C JUMP button Press to go to the previous channel Press again to return to the current channel D LIVE TV button Press to watch current TV programming E RECD TV button Press to start playback of TV programs recorded with the VAIO Zone software F PICTURES button Press to watch a photo slide show with the VAIO Zone software G MENU button Pres...

Page 78: ...ove back to the previous screen or forward to the next screen PLAY button Press to begin playback PAUSE button Press to pause playback STOP button Press to stop playback M MUSIC button Press to listen to music using the VAIO Zone software N CD DVD button Press to play DVDs or audio CDs using the VAIO Zone software O VAIO button Press to start the VAIO Zone software You can also close the VAIO Zone...

Page 79: ...ine with manganese batteries Using incompatible batteries or mixing used and new batteries or different types of batteries can damage the remote control If your remote control does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced When your remote control is not being used for extended periods of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage Verify the infrared r...

Page 80: ...e If you need to use a sound input device for example to chat on the Internet you need to plug in an external microphone To connect an external microphone Plug the microphone cable 1 into the microphone jack 2 m Make sure your microphone is designed for computer use ...

Page 81: ...ing When moving your computer with USB devices connected avoid any shock or force to the USB ports You need to slide the back panel cover up to access the USB ports on the bottom panel Connecting a USB Mouse To connect a USB mouse 1 Choose the USB port 1 you prefer to use 2 Plug the USB mouse cable 2 into the USB port You can now use your USB mouse 3 ...

Page 82: ...puter To connect a USB floppy disk drive 1 Choose the USB port you prefer to use 2 Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable into the USB port The VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing up Your USB floppy disk drive is now ready for use When using a USB floppy disk drive do not apply force on the USB port This may cause a malfunction ...

Page 83: ...USB cable directly from the computer To disconnect a USB floppy disk drive 1 Close all programs accessing the floppy disk drive 2 Double click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar The Safely Remove Hardware window appears 3 Select the floppy disk drive you want to unplug 4 Click Stop The Stop a Hardware device window appears 5 Make sure the floppy disk drive is selected and click OK A me...

Page 84: ...nnect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to your computer You need to slide the back panel cover up to access the USB ports on the bottom panel To connect a printer using the USB port 1 Plug the printer power cord into an AC outlet 1 2 Choose the USB port 3 you prefer to use 3 Plug one end of a USB printer cable 2 into the USB port and the other end to your printer ...

Page 85: ...vice i LINK cables compatible with your VAIO computer include cables with the following part numbers VMC IL4415 a 1 5 meter cable with a 4 pin connector at each end VMC IL4408 Series a 0 8 meter cable with a 4 pin connector at each end The optional i LINK cables may not be available depending on your country or region An i LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed The i...

Page 86: ...port 2 on the computer and the other end into the DV In Out ports 3 on the digital video camera recorder 2 Launch the DVgate Plus software On Sony digital video cameras ports labeled DV Out DV In Out or i LINK are i LINK compatible The Sony digital video camera recorder shown here is an example your digital video camera recorder may need to be connected differently You cannot access the pictures s...

Page 87: ...f an optional network cable to the Network Ethernet port on the bottom panel of your computer and the other end to your network For detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network see your Network Administrator You need to slide the back panel cover up to access the network Ethernet port Your computer can be connected to the network with the default settings ...

Page 88: ...nes mentioned below high electric current to the connectors may cause damage overheating or fire Home intercom speakerphone or business use telephone lines multi line business telephone Network lines such as 100BASE TX and 10BASE T Public telephone subscriber line PBX private branch exchange Lines other than those mentioned above Do not plug a phone cable into your computer network port ...

Page 89: ...er Customizing Your VAIO Computer This section briefly describes how to change the main settings of your computer Setting the Password page 90 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 92 Using the Power Saving Modes page 93 ...

Page 90: ...VAIO logo appears The BIOS setup screen appears 3 Use the or key to select Security on the Boot menu to display another screen select Change Supervisor Password and then press the Enter key 4 On the password entry screen enter the password twice and press the Enter key The password should be up to 6 alphanumeric characters long The following is to configure your computer to prompt password entry w...

Page 91: ...y to select Security on the Boot menu to display another screen select Change Supervisor Password and then press the Enter key 5 On the password entry screen enter a new password twice and press the Enter key To remove the password leave Enter Password blank and press the Enter key 6 Press the Esc key 7 Use the or key to select Exit and then Exit Save Changes and press the Enter key On the Setup C...

Page 92: ...indow to display the help file Some of the control items will not be visible if you open VAIO Control Center as a limited user Control item Description System Information Displays the information about your operating system the hardware configuration and software information Initial Setting You can specify the order in which the system checks for devices containing a bootable system when it starts...

Page 93: ... light behind the power button tells you which mode the computer is in To set the timer for your computer to automatically enter Standby or Hibernate mode after a certain amount of time click Start and Control Panel Click Performance and Maintenance and Power Options and then change the settings under Power Schemes Power indicator Mode Green Computer is in Normal mode on Amber Computer is in Stand...

Page 94: ...puter Using Normal Mode This is the normal state of your computer when it is in use The green power indicator light is on in this mode To save power while not working you can turn off a specific device such as the LCD or the hard disk ...

Page 95: ...the keyboard to put your computer in Standby mode To return to Normal mode Press any key If you press the power button for more than four seconds the computer will switch off automatically You will lose any unsaved data When the computer is in Standby mode you cannot insert a disc The computer comes out of Standby mode quicker than out of Hibernate mode Standby mode uses more power than Hibernate ...

Page 96: ...previous state If you press the power button for more than four seconds the computer will switch off automatically If you do not use the computer for a long period of time put your computer into Hibernate mode This power saving mode saves you the time of shutting down in the normal way When the computer is in Hibernate mode you cannot insert a disc Hibernate mode requires more time than Standby mo...

Page 97: ... You contact your dealer to install a new memory module You do not install it yourself if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer You do not touch the connectors or open the memory panel For the type of module and amount of memory installed on your computer refer to the online Specifications sheet For assistance contact an authorized Sony Service Center To find the nearest center ...

Page 98: ...d in this document assume familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practices and regulatory compliance required for using and modifying electronic equipment Turn off the computer and disconnect the system from its power source and from any telecommunication links networks or modems before you open the computer Failure to do so may result in pe...

Page 99: ...y Do not place the memory module in places subject to Heat sources such as radiators or air ducts Direct sunlight Excessive dust Mechanical vibration or shock Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded Ambient temperature of more than 95 F 35 C or less than 41 F 5 C High humidity Handle the memory module with care To avoid injuries to your hands and fingers do not touch the edge...

Page 100: ...r and then disconnect all peripheral devices 2 Gently place the main unit on a flat and stable surface with the LCD screen facing down Use caution when placing the LCD screen face down on a table or other flat surface The work surface must be free of dirt or debris that may damage the screen 3 Slide the back panel cover up until it stops ...

Page 101: ...101 n N Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 4 Press and hold the back panel cover release tab indicated by the arrow and slide the back panel cover further up ...

Page 102: ...102 n N Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 5 Lift the back panel cover away from the unit to remove 6 Remove the screws on the memory cover 1 ...

Page 103: ... cover tabs from the slots on the computer by lifting the edge of the memory cover and then remove the memory cover 8 Locate the memory module s you wish to remove 9 Push down on the latches 1 located on both sides of the module to gently eject it from the slot ...

Page 104: ...104 n N Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 10 Grasp the memory module by the sides and remove from the main unit Store the module in a static free bag ...

Page 105: ...to the center notch in the open module slot 3 Firmly insert the lower edge of the module 2 into the slot by pressing down evenly against the module s upper corners 4 The side latches 3 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 s...

Page 106: ...n the memory cover tabs to the slots on the computer and gently press down on the cover until it snaps into place 6 Replace the screws in the memory cover 7 Place the back panel cover against the computer aligning it to the tracks on each side 1 ...

Page 107: ...107 n N Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 8 Gently slide the back cover onto the computer until it gently snaps into place ...

Page 108: ...nt to All Programs and click VAIO Control Center 3 Double click the System Information folder in the VAIO Control Center window 4 Double click the System Information icon in the System Information folder You can view the amount of system memory If the additional memory does not appear repeat the whole procedure and restart the computer ...

Page 109: ...t your computer from potential damage On Handling the LCD Screen page 110 On Using the Power Source page 111 On Handling Your Computer page 112 On Handling Floppy Disks page 113 On Handling Discs page 114 On Using Headphones page 114 On Handling Memory Stick Media page 115 On Handling the Hard Disk page 116 ...

Page 110: ...al 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 precision technology You may however see tiny black points and or bright points red ...

Page 111: ...ents damage to your computer caused by sudden power surges in an electrical storm for example Do not place heavy objects on the power cord To disconnect the cord pull it out by the plug Never pull the cord itself Unplug your computer from the AC outlet if you are planning to not use the computer for a long time Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible Use the power cord that comes with yo...

Page 112: ... Excessive dust Moisture or rain Mechanical vibration or shock Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded Ambient temperature of more than 95 F 35 C or less than 41 F 5 C High humidity Do not place electronic equipment near your computer The electromagnetic field of your computer may cause a malfunction Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat from building up D...

Page 113: ...computer is damaged back up your data regularly On Handling Floppy Disks Do not open the shutter manually or touch the surface of the floppy disk Keep floppy disks away from magnets Keep floppy disks away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat Keep the floppy disk away from any liquid Do not let the floppy disk get wet When you are not using the floppy disk always remove it from the floppy...

Page 114: ...e 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 Never put stickers on discs This will affect the use of the disc irreparably ...

Page 115: ...abel supplied with the Memory Stick media as a label Do not bend drop or apply strong shock to the Memory Stick media Do not disassemble or modify Memory Stick media Do not let Memory Stick media get wet Do not use or store Memory Stick media in a location subject to Extremely high temperatures such as in a car parked in the sun Direct sunlight High humidity or Corrosive substances Use the storage...

Page 116: ...d be careful when handling your computer To avoid damaging your hard disk Do not subject your computer to sudden movements Keep the computer away from magnets Do not place your computer in a location subject to mechanical vibration or in an unstable position Do not move your computer while the power is on Do not turn off the power or restart the computer while reading or writing data to disk Do no...

Page 117: ...om pcsupport for customers in USA and Canada or at http kdb sony latin com for customers in Latin American countries or areas Computer page 118 System Security page 124 Internet page 126 Networking page 128 CDs and DVDs page 130 Display page 133 Printing page 134 Microphone page 135 Mouse page 136 Speakers page 137 Pointing Device page 138 Keyboard page 140 Floppy Disks page 141 PC Cards page 142 ...

Page 118: ...nterruptible power supply UPS make sure the power strip or UPS is turned on and working Confirm that the built in monitor is plugged into an appropriate power source and turned on Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly Condensation may cause the computer to malfunction If this occurs do not use the computer for at least one hour Remove any extra memory modules you ma...

Page 119: ...nd exit now window appears 7 Select OK and press the Enter key The computer restarts If this occurs on a regular basis contact an authorized Sony Service Center To find the nearest center or agent visit the Sony online support Web site What should I do if the power indicator Green lights but my screen does not display anything when I turn on my computer If nothing still appears on your screen afte...

Page 120: ... start follow these steps to initialize the BIOS 1 If there is a CD or DVD in the optical disc drive remove it 2 Turn off the computer 3 Remove any peripheral devices connected to the computer 4 Restart the computer 5 Press the F2 key when the VAIO logo appears The BIOS setup screen appears 6 Press the key to select the Exit menu 7 Press the m key to select Load Setup Defaults 8 Press the Enter ke...

Page 121: ...ndows Task Manager window appears click Turn Off from the Shut Down menu When the Windows Security window appears click Shut Down If your computer still does not turn off press and hold the power button until the computer turns off If your computer stops responding while playing a CD or DVD press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys simultaneously You can turn off the computer from the Windows Task Manager Pr...

Page 122: ...e steps 1 Press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys simultaneously The Windows Task Manager or Windows Security window appears 2 When the Windows Task Manager window appears press and release the Alt key to highlight the menu bar press the key to select Shut Down and then follow step 3 and 4 When the Windows Security window appears press the S key to shut down 3 Press the Enter key 4 Press the R key to selec...

Page 123: ...or before entering the password What should I do if my game software does not work or it keeps crashing Check the web site of the game if there are any patches or updates to download Make sure you have installed the latest video driver On some VAIO models the graphics memory is shared with the system The optimal graphic performance in this case is not guaranteed What should I do if I cannot rememb...

Page 124: ...important Windows updates by doing one of the following The Automatic Updates feature This feature automatically searches for and delivers updates directly to your computer whenever you are connected to the Internet The Windows Updates web site This site enables you to download computer updates without turning on the Automatic Updates feature Your computer must be connected to the Internet before ...

Page 125: ...nternet Security software program current with the latest updates from Symantec Corporation To download and install the latest security update 1 Double click the Norton Internet Security icon on the Taskbar notification area If you have not previously registered the antivirus software a series of information wizards appear 1 Follow the on screen instructions to complete each wizard 2 Double click ...

Page 126: ...one number the program is dialing is correct Make sure the software you are using is compatible with the computer s modem All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible Make sure that the modem is the only device connected to your phone line Check the following setting 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Click Phone and Modem Options 4 On the Modems tab check ...

Page 127: ...ing properly to other PC based modems fax machines or your Internet Service Provider ISP follow these steps Ask your telephone company to verify your telephone line is free of any line noise If your problem is fax related make sure 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 ISP make sure the ...

Page 128: ... and then Control Panel 2 Click Network and Internet Connections 3 Click Network Connections 4 Right click Wireless Network Connection 5 Click Properties 6 Click the Wireless Network tab 7 Make sure the access point is displayed in the Available networks Make sure the encryption key is correct Why can t I access the Internet Check the access point settings See the instructions supplied with the ac...

Page 129: ...an access point data transfer interruptions may occur when using large files or if the computer is in close proximity to microwaves and cordless telephones Move the computer closer to the access point Make sure the access point connection is intact Change the access point channel See your access point manual for more information What are channels Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided freque...

Page 130: ...the disc is dirty see On Handling Discs page 114 for instructions on how to clean it What should I do if the drive tray won t open Make sure the computer is on Press the drive eject button on the optical disc drive If the drive eject button does not work click Start and then My Computer Right click the optical disc drive icon and select Eject from the shortcut menu If none of the above options wor...

Page 131: ... cannot hear sound follow these steps Double click the Volume icon on the Taskbar Notification area and click to cancel the Volume Control Mute All and Wave Mute check boxes Check the volume setting in the audio mixer If you are using external speakers check the volume settings on the speakers and the connections between the speakers and the computer Make sure the CD audio feature is enabled and t...

Page 132: ...for at least one hour Condensation can cause the computer to malfunction Make sure your computer is running on AC power supply and try the disc again What should I do if I cannot write to CD Do not launch any software application or allow any to launch automatically not even a screen saver Do not use the keyboard Do not use a CD R RW disc that has a label affixed to it This could cause a write err...

Page 133: ...odes page 93 for more information Make sure the computer is plugged into a power source and is on The power indicator on the computer will be on if the computer is on What should I do if the screen is dark Press the Fn F6 keys to brighten the screen VGC V620G Press the Brightness button VGC V617G V600MG What should I do if the brightness of the screen changes The brightness of your screen when adj...

Page 134: ...fter the computer resumes from a power saving mode Standby or Hibernate then restart the computer If the bidirectional communication functions are provided with your printer disabling the functions on your computer may enable printing Follow these steps 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Click Printers and Faxes 4 Right click an unused printer and select Pro...

Page 135: ... n N Troubleshooting Microphone Why doesn t my microphone work If you are using an external microphone make sure the microphone is turned on and is properly plugged into the Microphone jack on the computer ...

Page 136: ...nager window appears press the Alt key to highlight the menu bar and press the key to select Shut Down Press the Enter key and then press the R key Press and hold the power button When the computer turns off wait 10 to 15 seconds then press the power button again to restart the computer If you are using a wireless optical mouse Confirm that the supplied AA batteries are properly installed Press th...

Page 137: ...e to the Headphones jack disconnect the cable and use the speaker cable that was supplied with the speakers If the speakers require external power make sure the speakers are connected to a power source See the manual that accompanied the speakers for more information Why can t I hear sound from my speakers If you are using a program that has its own volume control make sure the volume control is p...

Page 138: ...d release the Alt key to highlight the menu bar and press the key to select Shut Down 3 Press the Enter key 4 Press the R key to restart the computer If you still cannot restart your computer press and hold the power button to turn off the computer If the pointer does not move while playing a disc press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys simultaneously to stop playback and restart the computer If you are st...

Page 139: ...ange the button assignments Follow these steps 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Click Mouse 4 On the Buttons tab select your preferences in the Button Configuration box and then click Apply to install your settings You may need to use the Tab key and the M and m keys to make your selections 5 Click OK to close the window ...

Page 140: ...rd is specified on the sticker on the box If you choose a different regional keyboard when you complete the Windows setup the key configuration will be mismatched To change the keyboard configuration follow these steps 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Date Time Language and Regional Options 3 Change the settings as desired ...

Page 141: ...the LED indicator on the floppy disk drive to turn off 3 Push the eject button to remove the disk and disconnect the USB floppy disk drive from the computer 4 Reconnect the floppy disk drive by inserting the USB connector with the USB icon facing upward into the USB port 5 Restart the computer by clicking Start Turn Off Computer and then Restart Why is the drive unable to write data to a floppy di...

Page 142: ... Why doesn t my computer recognize attached devices For some PC Cards if you alternate between normal power operation and the Standby or Hibernate modes while the card is inserted into the PC Card slot the computer may not recognize the PC Card or the connected device Restart your computer Why can t I insert my PC Card Make sure you are inserting the card correctly See Inserting a PC Card page 56 ...

Page 143: ...tion i LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 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 See the manual that came with your compatible i LINK device for information on operating conditions and...

Page 144: ...mory Stick Formatter software preinstalled on your computer For instructions about formatting a Memory Stick media see Formatting a Memory Stick Media page 65 Why can t I save music files onto my Memory Stick media Copyright protected music cannot be checked out to any Memory Stick media other than MagicGate Memory Stick media Using recorded music requires permission of the copyright holders Sony ...

Page 145: ...AC outlet Try using a different USB port on your computer The driver could be installed to the specific port you used the first time you connected the device Check the manual provided with the USB device You may need to install software before you connect the device Try connecting a simple low powered device such as a mouse to test that the port is working at all USB hubs may prevent a device from...

Page 146: ...des These guides are stored on the hard disk as on screen Help files You can find the Help files from the Help menu under the specific program 3 Operating System Online Support Your computer comes preinstalled with a Microsoft Windows operating system For operating system support you can visit Microsoft customer support at http support microsoft com directory 4 Sony Computing Support This service ...

Page 147: ...u do not find the information you are looking for at our site you may call Sony directly In order to receive the fastest and most efficient services please have the following information readily available 1 Your VAIO computer model You can find it at the lower right corner of the display on the laptops and in the same place on the front panel of the CPU on the desktops 2 Your computer s serial num...

Page 148: ...e following numbers In Argentina 011 6770 SONY 7669 In Mexico In Mexico City 2122 9819 In the Mexican Republic 01 800 715 4331 In Colombia 01 800 550 7000 In Peru 0 801 1 7000 or 221 6699 In Chile Sony answers 800 261 800 From cellular phones 02 754 6333 In Venezuela 0 800 1 SONY 00 0 800 1 7669 00 ...

Page 149: ...ftware programs listed below Adobe Photoshop Elements Photoshop Album Premiere Reader Adobe Systems Inc For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www adobe com support Telephone 800 685 3652 America Online Broadband or Dial Up AOL Inc For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www aol com AOL Instant Messenger AOL Inc For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www aim com ...

Page 150: ... You are only a few clicks away from your own DVDs For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www sony com pcsupport Telephone 888 4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 For users in Latin American countries or areas Web Site http kdb sony latin com DVgate Plus Sony Electronics Inc Connect a compatible digital video camera to your computer s i LINK port and capture video clips and still images Edit clips from your...

Page 151: ...mall Business Edition Trial Version Office Student and Teacher Edition Trial Version Microsoft Corp For users in USA and Canada Web Site http support microsoft com Microsoft Internet Explorer Movie Maker Media Player Works Microsoft Corp For users in USA and Canada Web Site http support microsoft com MoodLogic MoodLogic Inc For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www moodlogic com support E mail...

Page 152: ...lectronics Inc PictureGear Studio still image management software displays still images from your hard drive or a Sony digital still camera The still images appear in a convenient light table format so that you can easily view the contents of an entire folder create your own photo albums and make prints For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www sony com pcsupport Telephone 888 4 SONY PC 888 47...

Page 153: ...on For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www corel com Quicken New User Edition Intuit Inc For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www intuit com support quicken RecordNow Sonic Solutions For users in USA and Canada Web Site http support sonic com ...

Page 154: ...pcsupport Telephone 888 4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 For users in Latin American countries or areas Web Site http kdb sony latin com SonicStage Mastering Studio Sony Electronics Inc Use SonicStage Mastering Studio software to record songs from analog records or cassette tapes into your computer and output them to CD R or CD RW discs or audio files in WAV format For users in USA and Canada Web Site http ...

Page 155: ...phone 888 4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 For users in Latin American countries or areas Web Site http kdb sony latin com VAIO Control Center Sony Electronics Inc VAIO Control Center provides a central location that gathers resources to configure your VAIO personal computer and view your computer s configuration and specifications For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www sony com pcsupport Telephone 8...

Page 156: ...es or areas Web Site http kdb sony latin com VAIO Media Sony Electronics Inc VAIO Media software brings multimedia to your network enabling you to share music video and still image files between your VAIO computers You can set up one or more VAIO computers as media servers which store your multimedia files and make them available to other compatible VAIO computers on your wired or wireless network...

Page 157: ...support Telephone 888 4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 For users in Latin American countries or areas Web Site http kdb sony latin com VAIO Wireless Utility Sony Electronics Inc The VAIO Wireless Utility walks you through setting up your wireless network connection and offers useful diagnostic tests to help keep your wireless network running smoothly For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www sony com pc...

Page 158: ...nd slide shows of pictures to DVD On VAIO computer models with a built in TV tuner VAIO Zone includes a complete personal video recorder enabling you to record TV programs and burn them to DVD For users in USA and Canada Web Site http www sony com pcsupport Telephone 888 4 SONY PC 888 476 6972 For users in Latin American countries or areas Web Site http kdb sony latin com WinDVD for VAIO InterVide...

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Sony Vaio VGC-V Series, User Manual

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