Sony VAIO VGN-FS415B User Manual Download

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

This section briefly describes how to change the main settings of your computer. Among other things, you will learn how to
use and customize the look of your Sony software and utilities, etc.

❑

Setting the Password

(page 84)

❑

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center

(page 86)

❑

Using the Power Saving Modes

(page 87)

❑

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management

(page 92)

❑

Setting Up Your Language with Windows XP Professional

(page 94)

❑

Configuring Your Modem

(page 97)

Summary of Contents for VAIO VGN-FS415B

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

Page 2: ...he Indicator Lights 21 Connecting a Power Source 22 Using the Battery Pack 23 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely 28 Using Your VAIO Computer 29 Using the Keyboard 30 Using the Touch Pad 32 Using Special function Buttons 33 Using the Optical Disc Drive 34 Using PC Cards 42 Using the Memory Stick Media 45 Using the Internet 48 Using Wireless LAN WLAN 49 ...

Page 3: ...iversal Serial Bus USB Device 74 Connecting a Printer 77 Connecting an i LINK Device 79 Connecting to a Network LAN 81 Customizing Your VAIO Computer 83 Setting the Password 84 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center 86 Using the Power Saving Modes 87 Managing Power with VAIO Power Management 92 Setting Up Your Language with Windows XP Professional 94 Configuring Your Modem 97 Upgrading ...

Page 4: ...1 On Handling Discs 112 On Using the Battery Pack 113 On Using Headphones 114 On Handling Memory Stick Media 114 On Handling the Hard Disk 115 Troubleshooting 116 Computer 117 System Security 125 Battery 127 Internet 129 Networking 131 CDs and DVDs 134 Display 139 Printing 141 Microphone 142 Mouse 143 Speakers 144 Touch Pad 145 Keyboard 146 ...

Page 5: ...5 n N Floppy Disks 147 PC Cards 148 Audio Video 149 Memory Stick Media 150 Peripherals 151 Support Options 152 Sony Support Information 152 e Support 153 Trademarks 155 ...

Page 6: ...ware or other information contained herein and hereby expressly disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with regard to this manual the software or such other information In no event shall Sony Corporation be liable for any incidental consequential or special damages whether based on tort contract or otherwise arising out of or in connection with th...

Page 7: ...through the use of computers and their office equipment The program backs the development and dissemination of products with functions that effectively reduce energy consumption It is an open system in which business proprietors can participate voluntarily The targeted products are office equipment such as computers displays printers facsimiles and copiers Their standards and logos are uniform amo...

Page 8: ...k Documentation 3 Select the guide you want to read You can manually browse to the user guides by going to My Computer VAIO C your C drive Documentation Documentation and opening the folder for your language You may have a separate disc for the documentation of bundled accessories Printed Documentation A Setting Up Poster Describes the process from unpacking to starting up your VAIO Troubleshootin...

Page 9: ...the software programs included with your computer as well as information on solving common problems Specifications The online Specifications describe the hardware and software configuration of your VAIO computer To view the online Specifications 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Go to the Sony online support Web site at http www vaio link com ...

Page 10: ... Center Important information about your computer in the form of notices and announcements In My Club VAIO you can also find Accessories Want to expand the capabilities of your computer Click on this icon and have a look at your compatible accessories Software Feeling creative Click this icon for an overview of your software and check out our upgrade options Wallpapers Click this icon and check ou...

Page 11: ...ntents to view all Windows Help resources including those that are on the Internet To access Help and Support Center click Start and then Help and Support Or go to the Help and Support Center by pressing the Microsoft Windows key and the F1 key Further Sources Consult the help files on the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting Go to www club vaio com to fi...

Page 12: ...p your forearms horizontal 2 with your wrists in a neutral comfortable position 3 while using the keyboard touch pad or external mouse Let your upper arms hang naturally at your sides Have breaks during sessions with your computer Excessive use of the computer may strain muscles or tendons Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are fl...

Page 13: ...ocation 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 Positioning an external display When using an external display set the display at a comfortable viewing distance Make sure t...

Page 14: ...section describes how to get started with using your VAIO computer Locating Controls and Ports page 15 About the Indicator Lights page 21 Connecting a Power Source page 22 Using the Battery Pack page 23 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely page 28 ...

Page 15: ...peakers C Keyboard page 30 D Touch pad page 32 E Power indicator page 21 F Battery indicator page 21 G Hard disk drive Optical disc drive indicator page 21 H Memory Stick media indicator page 21 I WLAN Wireless LAN switch on selected models only page 49 J WIRELESS LAN indicator on selected models only page 21 K Headphones jack page 64 L Microphone jack page 73 ...

Page 16: ...16 n N Getting Started A Display lock latch B S1 button page 33 C S2 button page 33 D Num lock indicator page 21 E Caps lock indicator page 21 F Scroll lock indicator page 21 G Power button ...

Page 17: ...17 n N Getting Started Back A Air vent B Battery connector page 23 ...

Page 18: ... IEEE1394 S400 port page 79 D Memory Stick media slot 1 page 45 E Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports 2 page 74 F Monitor VGA port page 66 G DC In port page 22 1 Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick PRO high speed and high capacity capabilities 2 Supports high full low speeds ...

Page 19: ...19 n N Getting Started Left A Network Ethernet port page 81 B Modem port page 48 C Optical disc drive page 34 D Manual eject hole page 134 E Drive eject button page 34 ...

Page 20: ...20 n N Getting Started Bottom A Port replicator connector page 61 B Air vents ...

Page 21: ...Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk or the optical disc Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on Num lock Press the Num Lk key to activate the numeric keypad Press it a second time to deactivate the numeric keypad The numeric keypad is not active when the indicator is off Caps lock Press the Caps Lock key to type letters in uppercase L...

Page 22: ...power cord into an AC outlet 2 3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter 3 into the DC In port 4 on the computer or on the optional port replicator The shape of the DC In plug varies depending on the AC adapter To disconnect the computer completely from AC power unplug the AC adapter Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible If you do not use the computer for a long period of time put th...

Page 23: ...mputer is not fully charged at the time of purchase Installing the Battery Pack To install the battery pack 1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid 2 Slide the lock switch 1 to the UNLOCK position 3 Slide the battery into the battery compartment until it clicks into place ...

Page 24: ... power and has a battery pack installed it uses power from the AC outlet Certain rechargeable batteries do not meet Sony quality and safety standards For safety reasons this notebook only functions with genuine Sony batteries designed for this model When inserting another kind of battery the battery will not be charged and the notebook will not function ...

Page 25: ...pter to the computer The computer automatically charges the battery the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery charges When the battery is about 85 charged the battery indicator turns off Battery indicator light status Meaning On The computer is using battery power Blinks The battery is running out of power Double blinks The battery is charging Off The computer is...

Page 26: ... The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source When the battery life is nearly depleted both the battery and power indicator lights start flashing For some software applications and some peripheral devices the computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when battery life is low To avoid loss of data when using battery power you should save your data frequently a...

Page 27: ...is on and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery while the computer is in Standby mode To remove the battery pack 1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid 2 Slide the lock switch 1 to the UNLOCK position 3 Slide and hold the release latch 2 and slide the battery away from the computer ...

Page 28: ...low To shut down your computer 1 Turn off any peripherals connected to the 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 the computer to turn off automatically The power indicator light turns off ...

Page 29: ...rt using your computer safely and confidently Read on to get the most out of using your computer Using the Keyboard page 30 Using the Touch Pad page 32 Using Special function Buttons page 33 Using the Optical Disc Drive page 34 Using PC Cards page 42 Using the Memory Stick Media page 45 Using the Internet page 48 Using Wireless LAN WLAN page 49 ...

Page 30: ...eaker switch Turns on and off the built in speakers 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 p...

Page 31: ...ages as it magnifies the screen view by changing the resolution The location and size of software windows may change when the screen view is magnified or the standard view is restored because pressing this key combination changes the resolution When the LCD screen view is magnified switching the view to the external display disables the function and restores the standard view Fn F12 Hibernate Prov...

Page 32: ... an item or object Click Press the left button 3 once Double click Press the left button twice Right click Press the right button 4 once In many applications this action displays a shortcut menu Drag Slide one finger while pressing the left button Scroll Move your finger along the right edge of the touch pad to scroll vertically Move your finger along the bottom to scroll horizontally the scroll f...

Page 33: ...ttons By default the S1 button turns the volume on and off and the S2 button toggles the display output between the LCD and external device You can change these button assignments on the window for changing the S button assignments To display this window press and hold either button or launch and navigate through VAIO Control Center See the help file on VAIO Control Center for the S button assignm...

Page 34: ...ter 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 3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing up and gently push until the disc clicks into place ...

Page 35: ...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 36: ...ging 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 VAIO PC OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING For i...

Page 37: ...use circular discs Do not use discs in any other shape star heart card etc as this may damage the optical disc drive Do not strike or shake the computer while writing data onto a disc Deactivate the screen saver and exit anti virus software before writing data onto a disc Do not use memory resident utility software while writing data to a disc This may cause the computer to malfunction When using ...

Page 38: ... a DVD Region codes indicators are labeled on the DVDs to indicate in which region and on what type of player you can play the disc Unless a 2 Europe belongs to region 2 or all this means that you can play this DVD in most regions of the world is labeled on your DVD disc or on the packaging you cannot play the disc on this player If you change the DVD region code while the WinDVD software is runni...

Page 39: ...sert the disc into the optical disc drive 2 If nothing appears on the desktop once you insert an audio CD disc then click Start point to All Programs and click to open a CD program such as the SonicStage software If the Audio CD window appears click to select an option ...

Page 40: ...d then click Explorer 3 In the Folders panel on the left locate the file s or folder s you want to copy right click the file s or folder s point to Send To and then click the optical disc drive name 4 Close the window 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 u...

Page 41: ...e program Copying Files to DVDs See the online Specifications to find the type of your optical disc drive and then Reading and Writing CDs and DVDs page 36 to find about the supported disc media To copy files to a disc 1 Connect the AC adapter to the computer 2 Insert the disc into the optical disc drive 3 Click Start and point to All Programs 4 Select a DVD software program you want to use from t...

Page 42: ...tions may not be compatible with the computer You do not need to shut down the computer before inserting or removing a PC Card To insert a PC Card 1 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing up 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 43: ...card is inserted the computer may not enter Hibernate power management mode It may enter Standby mode We recommend that you remove the card before the computer enters Hibernate mode 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 no...

Page 44: ...move Hardware 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 Close 7 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out 8 Push the PC Card release button a second time so ...

Page 45: ...formation about which VAIO computers are compatible with which Memory Stick media can be found at www vaio link com Your computer has been tested and found compatible with the Sony branded Memory Stick media with capacity of up to 4 GB Sony assumes no liability for compatibility with any other Memory Stick media Write protecting a Memory Stick Media Some versions of Memory Stick media are designed...

Page 46: ...figuration of the computer Be sure to hold the Memory Stick media with the arrow pointing in the correct direction as you insert it into the slot To avoid damaging the computer or the 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 d...

Page 47: ... software for details Removing a Memory Stick Media To remove a Memory Stick media 1 Check that the Memory Stick media indicator is off 2 Push the Memory Stick media 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 ...

Page 48: ...n operated telephone and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange PBX Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter the modem or connected device may not work properly To set up a dial up connection to the Internet 1 Click Start point to ...

Page 49: ...e to pull cables or wires through walls and ceilings The Sony WLAN supports all normal Ethernet activities but with the added benefits of mobility and roaming You can still access information internet intranet and network resources even in the middle of a meeting or as you move from one place to another You can communicate without an Access Point which means that you can communicate between a limi...

Page 50: ...ss 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 1X and EAP Extensible Authentication Protocol Data encryption protects the vulnerable wireless link between clients and Access Points Besides that there are ...

Page 51: ...hoc An ad hoc network is a network in which a local network is created only by the wireless devices themselves with no other central controller or Access Point Each device communicates directly with other devices in the network You can set up an ad hoc network easily at home ...

Page 52: ...ernet Connections 4 Click Network Connections The Network Connections window appears 5 Right click Wireless Network Connection then click Properties The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears 6 Select the Wireless Networks tab 7 Click the Add button The Wireless network properties window appears 8 Enter a Network name SSID 2 You can choose a 32 digit alphanumeric name 9 Select Open ...

Page 53: ...lick Close 19 Click OK The computer is ready to communicate with another computer 1 See the online Specifications to see whether your model supports the Bluetooth functionality 2 If you want to communicate between two or more computers you need to configure all these computers the exact same way This means that you need to enter the same Network name and the same Network key on all computers as on...

Page 54: ... 4 In the right panel under LAN or High Speed Internet right click Wireless Network Connection 5 Click Properties The Wireless Network Connection Properties window appears 6 On the Wireless Networks tab click Advanced The Advanced window appears 7 Click to select Any available network access point preferred and click Close 8 Click OK 9 Click OK to close the Network Connections window 10 Turn off t...

Page 55: ...s an existing wired local network to wireless devices by providing an Access Point for example the Sony Access Point The Access Point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a central controller for the Wireless LAN The Access Point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range ...

Page 56: ...onnections 4 Click Network Connections The Network Connections window appears 5 In the right panel under LAN or High Speed Internet double click Wireless Network Connection The Wireless Network Connection window appears 6 Select the network you want to use 7 Enter the Network Key 8 Click Connect After 30 seconds the connection is established See the online Specifications to see whether your model ...

Page 57: ...be used by the Access Point see the access point manual b Without an Access Point ad hoc If the Wireless connection is initiated by the VAIO computer channel 11 will be selected In France only certain channels are legally allowed when using WLAN outdoors For more information see the Regulations Guide If the Wireless connection is initiated by a peer Wireless LAN equipment the Wireless LAN communic...

Page 58: ...the radio conditions The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices existence of obstacles between such devices the radio conditions the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls and the software in use Deploying IEEE802 11b and IEEE802 11g products on the same wireless network may reduce the communication speed ...

Page 59: ...plicator page 60 Connecting External Speakers page 64 Connecting an External Display page 65 Selecting Display Modes page 69 Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 71 Connecting an External Microphone page 73 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device page 74 Connecting a Printer page 77 Connecting an i LINK Device page 79 Connecting to a Network LAN page 81 ...

Page 60: ...nly through the AC adapter supplied with the computer Do not unplug the AC adapter from the port replicator and the AC outlet while using the port replicator this may cause data damage or hardware malfunctions The printer port on the port replicator is intended for printer connections only A DC In port page 22 B Network Ethernet port 100BASE TX 10BASE T page 81 C Monitor VGA port page 66 D Printer...

Page 61: ...e sure to turn off the computer before attaching your computer to the port replicator 1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer 2 Plug the power cord 1 into the AC adapter 2 and an AC outlet 3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter 2 into the DC In port 3 on the port replicator 4 4 Open the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer ...

Page 62: ... the A V port replicator is attached to the computer you cannot access the DC In port the monitor VGA port the third USB port from the front and the network Ethernet port on the computer Use the AC adapter supplied with the computer Do not move the computer while attached to the port replicator this may detach the port replicator and cause damage to the port replicator and the computer ...

Page 63: ...from the port replicator 1 Lift the computer away from the port replicator 2 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer It is extremely important to close the port replicator connector cover after disconnecting the computer from the port replicator If the cover is left open dust may get inside and damage the computer To disconnect the port replicator completely from AC...

Page 64: ...l speakers To connect 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 65: ...ith a computer display or a projector Connecting a Computer Display page 66 Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display page 67 Connecting a Projector page 68 Connect the power cord after connecting all other cables Connected external displays are used as second screens On Windows systems only you can also use an external display to set up multiple monitors ...

Page 66: ... via the optional port replicator To connect a computer display 1 If necessary plug one end of the display s power cord 1 into the display and the other end into an AC outlet 2 Plug the display cable 2 not supplied into the monitor VGA port 3 a on the computer A video adapter device is required to connect a VGA monitor using the DVI D port ...

Page 67: ...tional port replicator To connect a multimedia computer display 1 Plug the power cord of the multimedia computer display 1 into an AC outlet 2 Plug the display cable 2 not supplied into the monitor VGA port 3 a on the computer or on the port replicator 3 Plug the speaker cable 4 into the headphones jack 5 i on the computer 4 Plug the microphone cable 6 into the microphone jack 7 m on the computer ...

Page 68: ...al port replicator To connect a projector 1 Connect the power cord 1 of the projector into an AC outlet 2 Plug the RGB signal cable 2 into the monitor VGA port 3 a on the computer or on the port replicator 3 Plug the audio cable 4 not supplied into the headphones jack 5 i 4 Plug the RGB signal cable and the audio cable into the jack and port on the projector 6 ...

Page 69: ...he computer s LCD and the external display at the same time see Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 71 for more information To select a display Models with the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 1 Right click on the desktop to display the context menu 2 Click the menu item for graphic properties 3 Follow the on screen instructions to change the settings You may not be able to display on the co...

Page 70: ...A video controller 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Appearance and Themes 3 Click Display 4 Click the Settings tab 5 Click Advanced 6 Click the tab with its name beginning with GeForce 7 Follow the on screen instructions to change the settings ...

Page 71: ... drag objects such as an open application window or a toolbar from one display to the other Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function Certain software applications may not be compatible with Multiple Monitors settings Make sure that the computer does not enter Standby or Hibernate mode while you are using Multiple Monitors mode otherwise the computer may not return to No...

Page 72: ...m for graphic properties 3 Follow the on screen instructions to change the settings Models with the NVIDIA video controller 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Appearance and Themes 3 Click Display 4 Select the Settings tab 5 Click Advanced 6 Click the tab with its name beginning with GeForce 7 Follow the on screen instructions to change the settings Additionally you can set the display c...

Page 73: ...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 74: ...e to the USB ports Do not put the computer into a bag or carrying case when it has USB devices connected Connecting a USB Mouse To connect a USB mouse 1 Choose the USB port 1 you prefer to use 2 Plug the USB mouse cable 2 into the USB port You can now use your USB mouse 3 The VAIO USB mouse software driver is preinstalled on the computer As a result you only need to plug the USB mouse into the USB...

Page 75: ...and connect it to your computer 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 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 76: ...omputer 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 message appears stating it is n...

Page 77: ...ing a Printer Using the USB Port You can connect a USB printer compatible with your version of Windows to the computer 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 78: ...r using the printer port 1 Plug the printer power cord 1 into an AC outlet 2 Plug the printer cable 2 supplied with your printer into the printer port 3 on the optional port replicator Before connecting the printer turn off the computer and the printer and unplug the AC adapter and the power cord ...

Page 79: ...i LINK cables compatible with the 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 the country or area of your residency An i LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed T...

Page 80: ...o 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 stored on a Memory Stick media when using an ...

Page 81: ...le to the Network Ethernet port on the computer or the optional port replicator and the other end to your network For detailed settings and devices needed to connect to the network see your network administrator The computer can be connected to the network with the default settings When the computer is attached to the port replicator you can only use the Network Ethernet port on the port replicato...

Page 82: ...nnector is connected to the telephone lines mentioned below high electric current to the connector may cause damage overheating or fire Home intercom speakerphone or business use telephone lines multi line business telephone Public telephone subscriber line PBX private branch exchange Do not plug a telephone cable into the network port ...

Page 83: ...things you will learn how to use and customize the look of your Sony software and utilities etc Setting the Password page 84 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 86 Using the Power Saving Modes page 87 Managing Power with VAIO Power Management page 92 Setting Up Your Language with Windows XP Professional page 94 Configuring Your Modem page 97 ...

Page 84: ...et the power on password and need assistance to reset a password reset fee will be charged and your computer may need to be sent in for depot service for password reset To add the power on password 1 Turn on the computer 2 Press the F2 key when the VAIO logo appears The BIOS setup screen appears If not restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo appears 3 Use the or ...

Page 85: ...OS setup screen appears If not restart the computer and press the F2 key several times when the VAIO logo appears 3 Enter the current password for Enter Password 4 Use the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key 5 On the password entry screen enter the current password once and a new password twice and then press the Enter key ...

Page 86: ...ick Start point to All Programs and click VAIO Control Center The VAIO Control Center window appears 2 Select the desired control item and change the settings 3 Once finished click OK The setting of the desired item has been changed For more information about each option click Help on the VAIO Control Center window to display the help file Some of the control items will not be visible if you open ...

Page 87: ...ry power you should be aware that the computer automatically enters Hibernate mode when the remaining battery charge becomes short regardless of the power management setting you select If the battery level falls below 10 percent you should either attach the AC adapter to recharge the battery or shut down the computer and install a fully charged battery Using Normal Mode This is the normal state of...

Page 88: ...he 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 mode If the battery runs down when the computer enters Standby mode you will lose any unsaved data Going back to the previous work state is impossi...

Page 89: ...o change the Standby mode settings 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Performance and Maintenance 3 Click Power Options The Power Options Properties window appears 4 Select the Power Schemes tab 5 Change the System Standby settings ...

Page 90: ... is off in this mode To activate Hibernate mode Press the Fn F12 keys The Hibernating screen appears and the computer enters Hibernate mode Alternatively 1 Click Start and then Turn Off Computer 2 Click Hibernate To return to Normal mode Turn on the computer by pressing the power button The computer returns to its previous state If you press the power button for more than four seconds the computer...

Page 91: ... time of shutting down or resuming When the computer is in Hibernate mode you cannot insert a disc Hibernate mode requires more time than Standby mode to be activated It takes more time to return to Normal mode from Hibernate mode than from Standby mode Hibernate mode uses less power than Standby mode Do not move the computer until its power indicator light turns off ...

Page 92: ...ftware Activating VAIO Power Management When you start the computer a power status icon appears on the taskbar This icon indicates what kind of power source you are using at that time for example AC power If you double click this icon the window appears showing your power status VAIO Power Management functionalities are added to the Windows Power Options Properties To activate VAIO Power Managemen...

Page 93: ...ment power scheme 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Performance and Maintenance 3 Click Power Options The Power Options Properties window appears 4 Select the tab for power scheme settings 5 Select a power scheme from the drop down list 6 If you now select the VAIO Power Management tab you see that the selected power scheme appears on the tab 7 If necessary you can change the items in t...

Page 94: ...ench German Japanese Dutch Italian Spanish Czech Finnish Greek Portuguese and Swedish It is important that you select the correct keyboard settings during the Windows Setup To select the correct keyboard settings during Windows Setup 1 At first boot click Next then Next again in the Windows XP Setup Wizard window The Select Your System Settings window appears 2 Fill in these three questions I live...

Page 95: ...n Unicode programs drop down menu 5 To change the language of the Windows menus windows and online help files provided by Microsoft Windows select the Languages tab of the Regional and Language Options window Non Microsoft Windows applications stay in English even if you change these settings 6 Select your language from the drop down list 7 Click Apply to apply the changes You are prompted to log ...

Page 96: ...ons window click the Details button The Text Services and Input Languages window appears 4 In the Settings tab of the Text Services and Input Languages window select your keyboard from the Default input language drop down menu 5 If your keyboard is not available click the Add button The Add Input Language window appears 6 Select the input language and keyboard from the drop down menu 7 Click the O...

Page 97: ...able To change your modem country settings 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Double click Phone and Modem Options The Phone and Modem Options window appears If you do not see the Phone and Modem Options window click Switch to Classic View on the left side 3 Select your location on the Dialing Rules tab 4 Click the Edit button to change the current configuration The Edit Location window appear...

Page 98: ...dem Driver To update the modem driver 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Click Phone and Modem Options The Phone and Modem Options window appears 4 Click the Modems tab and then click Properties to view the properties of your modem The Modem Properties window appears 5 On the Driver tab click Update driver The Hardware Update Wizard window appears Follow the...

Page 99: ...our guarantee due to mishandling we recommend that 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 model refer to the online Specifications Contact VAIO Link if you need assistance ...

Page 100: ...dule ensure the following The procedures described 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 that is battery or AC adapter and from any telecommunication links ne...

Page 101: ... to the computer and any repair costs will not be covered by the warranty 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 35 C or less than 5 C High humidity Handle the memory module with care To ...

Page 102: ...ct all peripheral devices 2 Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack 3 Wait until the computer cools down 4 Unscrew the screw indicated by the arrow below on the bottom of the computer and remove the memory module compartment cover 5 Touch a metal object such as the connector panel on the back of the computer to discharge static electricity ...

Page 103: ...ve the memory module Pull the latches in the direction of the arrows 1 The memory module is released Make sure that the memory module tilts up and then pull it out in the direction of the arrow 2 7 Remove the new memory module from its packaging ...

Page 104: ...h it in until it clicks into place Do not touch any other components on the motherboard Do not damage the inner film cover equipped for module protection 9 Replace the memory module compartment cover 10 Tighten the screw on the bottom of the computer 11 Reinstall the battery and turn on the computer ...

Page 105: ...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 106: ...rom potential damage On Handling the LCD Screen page 107 On Using the Power Source page 108 On Handling Your Computer page 109 On Handling Floppy Disks page 111 On Handling Discs page 112 On Using the Battery Pack page 113 On Using Headphones page 114 On Handling Memory Stick Media page 114 On Handling the Hard Disk page 115 ...

Page 107: ...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 108: ...d 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 the 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 When the AC adapter is not used unplug it from the AC outlet Use the AC ...

Page 109: ...r air ducts Direct sunlight Excessive dust Moisture or rain Mechanical vibration or shock Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded Ambient temperature of more than 35 C or less than 5 C High humidity Do not place electronic equipment near the computer The electromagnetic field of the computer may cause a malfunction Provide adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat fro...

Page 110: ...warm one moisture may condense inside the computer In this case allow at least one hour before turning on the computer If any problems occur unplug the computer and contact VAIO Link Make sure you disconnect the power cord before cleaning the computer To avoid losing data if the computer is damaged back up your data regularly ...

Page 111: ... 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 disk drive and use a storage case If the floppy disk comes with a label make sure that the label is properly attached If the edge of the label is curled up the label may stick to the inside of the floppy disk drive and cause a malfunction or dam...

Page 112: ...t use solvents such as benzine thinner alcohol commercially available cleaners or anti static spray which may cause damage to the disc For normal cleaning hold the disc by its edge and use a soft cloth to wipe the surface from the center out If the disc is badly soiled moisten a soft cloth with water wring it out well and use it to wipe the surface of the disc from the center out Wipe off any rema...

Page 113: ... battery will not be charged and the notebook will not function While the battery is in use or being charged the battery pack heats up This is normal and is not cause for concern Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat Keep the battery pack dry Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock If you are not using the computer for...

Page 114: ...e or discontinue use On Handling Memory Stick Media Do not use the media in locations that are subject to static electricity or electrical noise Do not touch the Memory Stick media connector with your finger or metallic objects Use only the label 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 Stic...

Page 115: ...ould be careful when handling the computer To avoid damaging your hard disk Do not subject the computer to sudden movements Keep the computer away from magnets Do not place the computer in a location subject to mechanical vibration or in an unstable position Do not move the computer while the power is on Do not turn off the power or restart the computer while reading or writing data to disk Do not...

Page 116: ...stions before contacting VAIO Link Computer page 117 System Security page 125 Battery page 127 Internet page 129 Networking page 131 CDs and DVDs page 134 Display page 139 Printing page 141 Microphone page 142 Mouse page 143 Speakers page 144 Touch Pad page 145 Keyboard page 146 Floppy Disks page 147 PC Cards page 148 Audio Video page 149 Memory Stick Media page 150 Peripherals page 151 ...

Page 117: ...sure it is plugged into a power source and turned on Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly See the manual that came with your display for details Disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery Wait three to five minutes Reattach the AC adapter and reinstall the battery and press the power button to turn on the computer Condensation may cause the computer to malfun...

Page 118: ...s the m key to select System Time and then set the time hour minute second Press the Enter key 4 Press the key to select the Exit tab and then press the F9 key The message Load default configuration now appears 5 Select Yes and press the Enter key 6 Select Exit Save Changes and press the Enter key The message Save configuration changes and exit now appears 7 Select Yes and press the Enter key The ...

Page 119: ...pears on your screen after a while 1 Press the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power indicator goes out Then turn on the computer again 2 If nothing still appears on your screen unplug the AC adapter remove the battery and leave the computer for about a minute Then plug in the AC adapter install the battery and turn on the computer again ...

Page 120: ...w appears click Turn Off from the Shut Down menu When the Windows Security window appears click Shut Down If the computer still does not turn off press and hold the power button or slide and hold the power switch until the computer turns off If the 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 M...

Page 121: ...neously In the Windows Task Manager window press the appropriate button and restart the computer Why doesn t the computer start or the power button does not work when the battery indicator is flashing This symptom could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly To resolve this symptom switch off the computer and remove the battery pack Then install the battery pack to the computer ag...

Page 122: ...forming the above it means the installed battery pack is not compatible Remove the battery pack and contact VAIO Link Why is the sound of my computer s fan so loud The computer s fan may be running at a high speed to cool the CPU By lowering the CPU speed you also lower the speed and noise level of the computer s fan You can use the power schemes to lower the CPU speed To lower the CPU speed using...

Page 123: ...k that the power indicator goes off Wait for 10 or 15 seconds then restart the computer and enter the correct password When entering the password check that the Num lock indicator and Caps lock indicator are off If any are lit press the Num Lk key or the Caps Lock key to turn off the indicator before entering the password What should I do if my game software does not work or it keeps crashing Chec...

Page 124: ...re the Desktop screen appears due to network security checkups Why doesn t the LCD turn off when the time selected for the automatic turn off action has passed The originally selected VAIO s screen saver disables the timer setting which you can select using the Windows power options for the LCD to turn off Change the originally selected VAIO s screen saver ...

Page 125: ...ng system is preinstalled on the computer The best way to protect the computer against security threats such as viruses is to download and install the latest Windows updates regularly You can get important Windows updates by doing the following The computer must be connected to the Internet before you can receive updates 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Click the Automatic Updates icon on the taskbar 3...

Page 126: ... Security icon on the taskbar 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 the Norton Internet Security icon again The Norton Internet Security window appears If you have previously registered this antivirus software the Norton Internet Security window automatically app...

Page 127: ... is installed When should I recharge the battery When the battery level falls below 10 percent When both the battery and power indicators blink When you have not used the battery for a long time When should I replace the battery If the battery power is still low after charging it the battery may be reaching the end of its life and should be replaced Should I be concerned that the installed battery...

Page 128: ...m from entering Hibernate mode save your data frequently to avoid losing data See Using Hibernate Mode page 90 for information on how you can manually activate Hibernate mode Why doesn t my computer enter Hibernate mode You may first need to enable Hibernate mode Follow these steps 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Performance and Maintenance 3 Click Power Options The Power Options Prop...

Page 129: ...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 130: ...ng 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 I...

Page 131: ...ick Start 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 wi...

Page 132: ...emporarily overloaded depending on how many other devices are communicating via the access point If your access point interferes with other access points change the access point channel See your access point instructions for more information How do I avoid data transfer interruptions When the computer is connected to an access point data transfer interruptions may occur when using large files or i...

Page 133: ...e using a wireless LAN access point see connectivity information contained in your access point instructions When I change the encryption key the network connection stops What should I do Two computers with built in wireless LAN may loose a peer to peer network connection if the encryption key is changed You can either change the encryption key back to the original profile or re enter the key on b...

Page 134: ...or damage If the disc is dirty see On Handling Discs page 112 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 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 work insert a th...

Page 135: ...uctions If you are playing a CD or DVD and cannot hear sound follow these steps Double click the Volume icon on the taskbar and click to cancel the Master Volume 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 f...

Page 136: ...ke sure an adhesive label was not attached to the CD or DVD Adhesive labels can come off while the disc is in the optical disc drive and damage the drive or cause it to malfunction If a region code warning appears the disc may be incompatible with the optical disc drive Check the DVD package to make sure the region code is compatible with the optical disc drive If you notice condensation on the co...

Page 137: ...ard Do not use a CD R RW disc that has a label affixed to it This could cause a write error or other damage What should I do if I cannot write to DVD Are you using the correct DVD recordable media Check which DVD recordable format is compatible with the computer s built in DVD recorder DVD R DVD RW DVD R DVD RW Note the possibility that some brands of DVD recordable media do not work ...

Page 138: ...l disc drive icon and select Properties 3 Click the Recording tab 4 Click to cancel the Enable CD recording on this drive check box 5 Click OK Canceling the Enable CD recording on this drive check box disables writing to CD R and CD RW discs To write to such discs make sure to select this check box You cannot add data to DVD RAM discs with data already written by the Roxio DigitalMedia software du...

Page 139: ...power make sure the battery is installed properly and is charged See Using the Battery Pack page 23 for more information If the display mode is set to external display use the Fn F7 key combination See Combinations and Functions with the Fn Key page 30 for more information What should I do if the screen does not display a video If the external display is selected for the output destination with th...

Page 140: ...Panel 2 Click Performance and Maintenance 3 Click Power Options 4 Select the tab for power scheme settings 5 Select the desired power scheme from the drop down list 6 On the VAIO Power Management tab select No change for LCD Brightness 7 Click OK The preference for the brightness adjusted with the Fn F5 F6 keys is saved and your screen brightness remains unchanged regardless of operating condition...

Page 141: ...bernate then restart the computer If the bidirectional communication functions are provided with your printer disabling the functions on the 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 Properties 5 Click the Ports tab 6 Click to cancel the Enable bidire...

Page 142: ... 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 143: ...e the pointer restart the computer Press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys simultaneously In the Windows Task Manager window press the appropriate button and restart the computer 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 Avoid using radio controlled toys or equipment CB radios and other wireless devices in the...

Page 144: ...h the speakers If you are using battery power make sure the battery is installed properly and is charged If the speakers require external power make sure the speakers are connected to a power source See the manual that came with the speakers for more information Why can t I hear sound from my speakers If the computer is using battery power make sure the battery is properly installed and is charged...

Page 145: ...er mouse is not installed You may have disabled the touch pad without connecting a mouse to the computer See Using the Touch Pad page 32 How do I change the left and right button assignments If the computer is interpreting a single click as a double click you may want to change the button assignments Follow these steps 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Clic...

Page 146: ...hange the keyboard configuration follow these steps 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Date Time Language and Regional Options and click Regional and Language Options 3 Change the settings as desired What should I do if I cannot enter certain characters with the keyboard If you cannot enter U I O P J K L M and so on the Num Lk key may be activated Check that the Num lock indicator is off...

Page 147: ...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 148: ... 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 the computer Why can t I insert my PC Card Make sure you are inserting the card correctly See Inserting a PC Card page 42 f...

Page 149: ...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 150: ...tick Formatter software preinstalled on the computer For instructions about formatting a Memory Stick media see the help file on the Memory Stick Formatter software 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...

Page 151: ... AC outlet Try using a different USB port on the 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 152: ... have any problem with the computer you can access the VAIO Link web site for troubleshooting Go to http www vaio link com e Support This interactive part of our web site http www vaio link com allows you to get in contact with our dedicated support team over the internet Using a personalized account you can log your technical queries with ease VAIO Link help lines Before contacting VAIO Link by t...

Page 153: ...O Link e Support Web Portal How can I access the e Support portal When you register your computer you will automatically receive an email with the link to the e Support Web Portal your Customer ID and some basic explanation a few hours later All you need to do is activate your account by clicking on the provided link in the email You are now ready to create your first case You can access the e Sup...

Page 154: ...es from Monday till Friday between 8am and 6pm Is there a cost involved for using e Support No this is a complete free of charge service offered to all registered VAIO customers How do I know when the e Support Team has handled my query case As soon as your case has been dealt with by our e Support Team you will receive an email notifying you that your case has been updated ...

Page 155: ... Corporation in the U S and other countries i LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE1394 connection Adobe Adobe Acrobat Elements Adobe Acrobat Professional Adobe Reader Adobe Premiere Elements and Adobe Photoshop Elements are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated Norton Internet Security 2006 AntiSpyware Edition Norton Password Manager 2004 and Norton...

Page 156: ...ademarks of their respective owners In the manual the or marks are not specified Specifications are subject to change without notice All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners Please see the online Specifications to see what software is available for your model ...

Page 157: ... 2006 Sony Corporation n ...

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