Sony VGC-LA Series User Manual Download

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Getting Started

Back

Back panel cover
Remove the back panel cover to access the ports and jacks
behind it

Before removing the cover, be sure to shut down your computer, disconnect all
peripheral devices, and unplug the computer.

Prop-up stand
Grasp the side ends with both hands and raise the bottom end,
as shown below, to place your computer upright. When moving
or storing the computer, you can simply push it back in for easy
handling.

Summary of Contents for VGC-LA Series

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

Page 2: ...ing a Power Source 20 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely 23 Using Your VAIO Computer 24 Using the Keyboard 25 Using the Mouse 32 Using the Built in MOTION EYE Camera 37 Using the Optical Disc Drive 39 Using the TV Function 50 Using PC Cards 54 Using the ExpressCard Module 57 Using the Memory Stick Media 61 Using Other Memory Cards 66 Using the Internet 69 Using Wireless LAN WLAN 70 ...

Page 3: ...mputer with VAIO Control Center 89 Using the Power Saving Modes 90 Configuring Your Modem 95 Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 97 Adding and Removing Memory 98 Precautions 104 On Handling the LCD Screen 105 On Using the Power Source 106 On Handling Your Computer 107 On Using the Built in MOTION EYE Camera 109 On Handling Floppy Disks 109 On Handling Discs 110 On Using Headphones 111 On Handling Memory ...

Page 4: ...124 Internet 127 Networking 129 CDs and DVDs 132 Display 136 Printing 137 Microphone 138 Mouse 139 Speakers 140 Keyboard 141 Floppy Disks 142 PC Cards 143 Audio Video 144 Memory Stick Media 145 Peripherals 146 Support Options 147 Sony Support Information 147 e Support 148 Trademarks 150 ...

Page 5: ...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 6: ...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 7: ...ct 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 Troubleshooting Guide Contains solut...

Page 8: ...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 9: ...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 out...

Page 10: ...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 11: ...e computer and other peripheral equipment Position of your computer Place the display directly in front of you 1 Keep your forearms horizontal 2 with your wrists in a neutral comfortable 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 muscle...

Page 12: ...oper position Adjust the brightness setting of the display as well While adjusting the viewing angle do not exert excessive pressure on your computer especially on the center of the speaker grill to eliminate a risk of mechanical damage Lighting Choose a location where windows and lights do not create glare and reflection on the display Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display Yo...

Page 13: ...ng Started This section describes how to get started with using your VAIO computer Locating Controls and Ports page 14 About the Indicator Lights page 19 Connecting a Power Source page 20 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely page 23 ...

Page 14: ... microphone monaural E Built in MOTION EYE camera page 37 F Power indicator page 19 G Power button H MONITOR OFF button MONITOR OFF indicator page 19 Press this button to turn off the LCD backlight and the speaker volume You can change the MONITOR OFF button setting to keep the speaker volume on See Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 89 and find out more in its help file I LCD ...

Page 15: ...efore removing the cover be sure to shut down your computer disconnect all peripheral devices and unplug the computer B Prop up stand Grasp the side ends with both hands and raise the bottom end as shown below to place your computer upright When moving or storing the computer you can simply push it back in for easy handling ...

Page 16: ...IDEO INPUT S VIDEO VIDEO port Connect an external device such as a VCR D VHF UHF port page 50 E Network Ethernet port page 84 F DC IN port page 20 G Cable bundler page 22 H CONNECT button page 25 page 32 I WLAN Wireless LAN switch page 70 J Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 79 K Modem port page 69 Supports high full low speeds ...

Page 17: ...17 n N Getting Started Right A Optical disc drive page 39 B Optical disc drive indicator page 19 C Drive eject button page 41 ...

Page 18: ...icrophone jack Connect an external microphone G Universal ExpressCard slot 1 page 58 H Media Access indicator page 19 I Memory Stick PRO Duo media slot 2 page 63 J i LINK IEEE 1394 S400 port page 82 K Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 port 3 page 79 1 Referred to as the ExpressCard slot hereinafter 2 Your computer supports Memory Stick PRO media and Memory Stick Duo media with high speed and high capacity capa...

Page 19: ... read from or written to a memory card Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on When the indicator is off the memory card is not being used MONITOR OFF Illuminates in orange when the LCD backlight and the speaker volume are turned off Infrared signal Illuminates upon receipt of infrared signals Optical disc drive Illuminates when data is read from or written to ...

Page 20: ...Source You need an AC adapter as a power source for your computer Before accessing the DC IN port You need to remove the back panel cover 1 Simply pull the cover off your computer Be sure to put the cover back on the computer when you are done ...

Page 21: ...ter only with the supplied AC adapter To use the AC adapter 1 Plug one end of the power cord 1 into the AC adapter 3 2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet 2 3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter 3 into the DC IN port 4 on the computer ...

Page 22: ...nap the cable bundler back shut as shown below To disconnect your computer completely from AC power unplug the AC adapter Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible If you do not use your computer for a long period of time place the computer into Hibernate mode See Using Hibernate Mode page 93 This power saving mode saves the time of shutting down or resuming ...

Page 23: ...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 24: ...eyboard page 25 Using the Mouse page 32 Using the Built in MOTION EYE Camera page 37 Using the Optical Disc Drive page 39 Using the TV Function page 50 Using PC Cards page 54 Using the ExpressCard Module page 57 Using the Memory Stick Media page 61 Using Other Memory Cards page 66 Using the Internet page 69 Using Wireless LAN WLAN page 70 ...

Page 25: ...eless keyboard is supplied with your computer The wireless keyboard uses a standard key arrangement with additional keys that perform specific functions The VAIO Link web site www vaio link com also contains glossary information to help you use the keyboard ...

Page 26: ...ease the volume D Shortcut buttons Perform the pre assigned tasks The default tasks are as follows S1 Launches or exits LifeFlow S2 Launches Internet Explorer When Internet Explorer is up and running press this button to magnify the contents in the foreground Internet Explorer window One press magnifies the contents by 25 When magnification reaches 200 it goes back to 100 If the Internet Explorer ...

Page 27: ...es wear out Num lock Turns on while in the Num Lock state Caps lock Turns on while in the Caps Lock state Scroll lock Turns on while in the Scroll Lock state Connect Turns on while connection between the computer and the wireless keyboard is in place to indicate that the keyboard is ready for use page 30 H Windows key Displays the Start menu I Applications key Displays a shortcut menu in certain s...

Page 28: ...VAIO Computer A Keyboard feet Flip open to adjust the keyboard angle B CONNECT button Press to enable the wireless keyboard to communicate with the main unit C Battery compartment Storage compartment for the AA batteries ...

Page 29: ...d Press the CONNECT button located on the back of your computer first and then press the CONNECT button on the bottom of the wireless keyboard Avoid using any wireless devices that exchange radio signals on the 2 4 GHz frequency band near the wireless keyboard These devices may cause interference causing the keyboard to stop working properly Do not place metal furniture near your computer or wirel...

Page 30: ...CT button 5 on the bottom of the keyboard The connect indicator turns on in the indicator window on the keyboard when connection is established between the computer and the keyboard If not repeat the procedure Steps 4 and 5 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other If the wireless keyboard is left unused for 20 minutes or longer the connect indicator will turn off This could indicate that ...

Page 31: ...ower level If the wireless keyboard does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced If the wireless keyboard is not being used for an extended period of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage If you want to put the wireless keyboard in a more ergonomic position flip open the keyboard feet ...

Page 32: ...al 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 shortcut menu not always an active function D Power switch Slide the switch to turn the mouse...

Page 33: ...CONNECT button on the bottom of the wireless mouse Avoid using any wireless devices that exchange radio signals on the 2 4 GHz frequency band near the wireless mouse These devices may cause interference causing the mouse to stop working properly Use surfaces such as plain paper card stock or fabric that have minimal repetitive patterns Avoid surfaces such as mirrors smooth glass or magazines that ...

Page 34: ...ing Your VAIO Computer To connect the wireless mouse 1 Insert the supplied two AA batteries into the wireless mouse as shown below 2 Turn on the computer 3 Press the CONNECT button 1 on the back of the computer ...

Page 35: ...ween the wireless mouse and the computer should now be established Step 3 and 4 must be completed within 10 seconds of each other If the wireless mouse does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced If the wireless mouse is not being used for an extended period of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage ...

Page 36: ... n N Using Your VAIO Computer Adjusting the Mouse Functions 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Click Mouse The Mouse Properties window appears 4 Change the settings ...

Page 37: ...o editing software for example Windows Messenger and Windows MovieMaker Turning on the computer activates the built in MOTION EYE camera so the computer is ready for a video conference using such software Note that launching or exiting your instant messaging or video editing software does not activate or deactivate the built in MOTION EYE camera respectively Make sure that the camera is activated ...

Page 38: ... camera You can change the capture angle of the built in MOTION EYE camera with the capture angle adjuster 1 on the back of your computer Push down or up the horizontal bar to adjust the angle upward or downward respectively until you see the live feed in the desired angle The viewer window may show some noises for example horizontal streaks if you view a rapid moving object This is normal and doe...

Page 39: ...is equipped with an optical disc drive To insert a disc Be sure to attach the 8cm disc adapter to an 8cm disc before inserting the disc into the optical disc drive slot 1 Turn on the computer 2 With the label side facing toward you slide a disc into the optical disc drive slot ...

Page 40: ...automatically launch Windows and may display a window for selecting your preferred software program to launch or may automatically launch a preinstalled CD DVD program If you plan to use an external optical disc drive connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled CD DVD program ...

Page 41: ...hen your computer is in a power saving mode Standby or Hibernate Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction 1 Check that the optical disc drive indicator 1 is off 2 Press the drive eject button 2 The optical disc slides out If pressing the drive eject button does not slide the disc out of the drive restart your computer and repeat the procedure ...

Page 42: ... and DVDs Your computer plays and records CDs and DVDs depending on the model you purchased Check your specifications for the type of optical disc drive installed on your model Use the table below to see which types of media your optical disc drive supports ...

Page 43: ...P P P 1 Supports writing data to DVD R discs compliant with DVD R for General Version 2 0 2 1 2 Supports writing data to DVD RW discs compliant with DVD RW Version 1 1 1 2 3 The DVD RW RAM disc drive on your computer does not support the DVD RAM cartridge Use non cartridge discs or discs with removable cartridge 4 Writing data to single sided DVD RAM discs 2 6 GB compliant with DVD RAM Version 1 0...

Page 44: ...CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO YOUR VAIO PC OR CREATE SOFTWARE CONFLICTS AND CAUSE SYSTEM HANGING For inquiries about disc formats contact the individual publisher of the pre recorded disc or the manufacturer of the recordable disc Supports 8cm disc reading but not 8cm disc writing PR playable and recordable P playable but not recordable not playable nor recordable CD ROM Video CD Music CD CD Extra CD R RW...

Page 45: ...rus software before writing data to a disc Do not use memory resident utility software while writing data to a disc This may cause your computer to malfunction When using your 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 whi...

Page 46: ... 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 your computer If you change the DVD region code while the WinDVD software is running restart the software or eject the disc and re insert...

Page 47: ...udio CD 1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive 2 If nothing appears on the desktop then click Start point to All Programs and click to start the desired CD software such as the SonicStage software If the Audio CD window appears click to select an option ...

Page 48: ...er 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 under Files Ready to Be Written to the CD 7 In the CD Writing Tasks box click Write...

Page 49: ...o start the desired DVD software to play the DVD For instructions on how to use the software see the help file on your DVD software Copying Files to DVDs To copy files to a disc 1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive 2 If nothing appears on the desktop then click Start point to All Programs and click to start the DVD software you want to use For instructions on how to use the software see the...

Page 50: ...e your computing experience Media Center provides you with a wide range of TV DVD and video viewing as well as music recording and playback To connect terrestrial or cable TV to your computer 1 Connect one end of an antenna cable supplied cable TV cable not supplied to the VHF UHF port on the computer 2 Connect the other end of the cable to your TV wall outlet cable service access ...

Page 51: ...n Press to pause media playback Press again to resume playback Forward M button Press to fast forward media at three speeds Skip B button Press to move media forward for example one audio track one DVD chapter and 30 seconds of recorded TV or video Replay b button Press to move media backward for example one audio track one DVD chapter and seven seconds of TV or video Rewind m button Press to move...

Page 52: ... or window option When watching full screen TV press OK to return to the previous channel Press OK again to switch between channels O Channel Page buttons Press to change or page up down channels no number input required P Start button Press to open the Media Center Start menu Muting button Press to turn off the sound Press again to restore the sound Q DVD menu button Press to open the main menu o...

Page 53: ...mote commander over 2 Press in the tab 1 and lift the battery cover up 3 Insert the supplied two AA batteries into the remote commander 4 Align the battery cover to the remote commander 5 Press down until the cover clicks into place If the remote commander does not operate properly you may need to replace the batteries When the remote commander has not been used for an extended period of time remo...

Page 54: ...ng a PC Card To insert a PC Card 1 Push the PC Card release button so that the release button pops out 2 Push the PC Card release button a second time so that the PC Card slot protector pops out 3 Gently take hold of the protector and pull it out of the slot 4 Insert the PC Card into the PC Card slot with the front label facing upward 5 Gently push the PC Card into the slot The PC Card is automati...

Page 55: ...ystem to correct the problem Restarting will restore the original state of your computer While the card is inserted your 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 Devic...

Page 56: ...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 57: ...ras camcorders music players and other audio video devices The former can accommodate either an ExpressCard 34 34 mm wide or ExpressCard 54 54 mm wide module as shown below and the latter an ExpressCard 34 module only Hereinafter referred to as the ExpressCard slot and the ExpressCard module Your computer is equipped with a Universal ExpressCard slot ExpressCard 34 module ExpressCard 54 module ...

Page 58: ... in or out of the slot You do not need to shut down your computer before inserting or removing the ExpressCard module To insert an ExpressCard module 1 Push the ExpressCard slot protector to pop it out 2 Gently take hold of the ExpressCard slot protector and pull it out of the slot 3 Hold the ExpressCard module with the arrow facing upward and pointing toward the ExpressCard slot 4 Carefully slide...

Page 59: ...ressCard module Before moving your computer make sure to insert the ExpressCard slot protector into the slot If the module or adapter does not go into the slot easily remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction Make sure you use the most recent software driver provided by the ExpressCard module manufacturer ...

Page 60: ...steps 1 to 6 1 Double click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar The Safely Remove 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 in the ExpressCard module ...

Page 61: ...k media from the Sony Style website www sonystyle europe com or from your local Sony dealer Detailed information 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 that are available as of May 2006 However not all Memory Stic...

Page 62: ...ve the tab horizontally or vertically to set or release write protection When the erasure prevention switch is off data can be saved on the Memory Stick media When the erasure prevention switch is on data can be read from but not saved on the Memory Stick media Be sure to use a fine tipped object to move the tab on the Memory Stick Duo media Some versions of Memory Stick media do not have an erasu...

Page 63: ... 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 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 your computer or the Memory Stick media do not force the Memory Stick media into the slot...

Page 64: ...mory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the Memory Stick media To format a Memory Stick media Use the Memory Stick Formatter software See the help file on the Memory Stick Formatter software for details Formatting the Memory Stick media erases the entire data on the media Avoid accidental erasure of your valuable data Do not remove the Memory Stick media from the slot while f...

Page 65: ...computer The Memory Stick media ejects 3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot Always remove the Memory Stick media gently or it may pop out unexpectedly Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Media Access indicator 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 Stick media ...

Page 66: ...e correct memory card into the SD memory card slot SDHC memory cards are not supported Do not attempt to insert a memory card or memory card adapter of a different type into the slot An incompatible memory card or memory card adapter may be difficult to remove from the slot and can cause damage to your computer Use care when inserting or removing a memory card from the slot Do not force the memory...

Page 67: ...ge 18 2 Hold the memory card with the arrow pointing toward the memory card slot 3 Carefully slide the memory card into the slot until it clicks into place Do not force the card into the slot If the memory card does not go into the slot easily remove it gently and verify you are inserting it in the proper direction ...

Page 68: ...remove a memory card while the Media Access indicator light is on The card or its data may become damaged To remove a memory card 1 Check that the Media Access indicator is off 2 Firmly grasp the extended part of the memory card 3 Carefully pull it out of the slot ...

Page 69: ... to a coin operated telephone and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange PBX Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal modem If you connect a telephone cable coming through a splitter the modem or connected device may not work properly To set up a dial up connection to the Internet 1 Click Start ...

Page 70: ...otection and access control for existing Wi Fi networks WPA has been designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802 11i specification It utilizes the enhanced data encryption TKIP Temporal Key Integrity Protocol in addition to user authentication using 802 1X and EAP Extensible Authentication Protocol Data encryption protects the vulnerable wireless link between clients and access points Besi...

Page 71: ... use In addition communications may be cut off depending on the radio conditions The communication range varies depending on the actual distance between communication devices existence of obstacles between such devices the radio conditions the ambient environment that includes existence of walls and materials of such walls and the software in use Deploying IEEE 802 11b and IEEE 802 11g products on...

Page 72: ... 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 If the Wireless connection is initiated by the VAIO computer channel 11 will be selected If the Wireless connection is initiated by peer Wireless LAN equipment the Wireless LAN communication will make use of the channel selected by the peer Wireless LAN eq...

Page 73: ...6 Select the Wireless Networks tab 7 Click the Add button The Wireless network properties window appears 8 Enter a network name SSID 1 You can choose a 32 digit alphanumeric name 9 Select Open from the Network Authentication drop down box 10 Select WEP from the Data Encryption drop down box 11 Deselect the The key is provided for me automatically option button Some information becomes visible 12 E...

Page 74: ...ck Close 19 Click OK The computer is ready to communicate with another computer 1 If you want to communicate between two or more computers you need to configure all these computers in 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 the first computer you configure 2 Hexadecimal a number representation using the digits 0 9 w...

Page 75: ...ndow appears 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 Close the Network Connections window 10 Turn off t...

Page 76: ... Access Point The access point bridges the wireless and wired LAN and acts as a central controller for the Wireless LAN The access point coordinates transmission and reception from multiple wireless devices within a specific range The access point will select which channel to use on an infrastructure network For details on how to select the channel that will be used by the access point see the man...

Page 77: ...he right panel under LAN or High Speed Internet double click Wireless Network Connection The Wireless Network Connection window appears 7 Select the network you want to use 8 Enter the network key For more information about setting up an access point see the manual that came with your access point To disconnect from a wireless network Turn off the WIRELESS LAN switch Turning off the wireless LAN f...

Page 78: ...l Devices You can add functionality to your computer by using the various ports on the computer Connecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device page 79 Connecting a Printer page 81 Connecting an i LINK Device page 82 Connecting to a Network LAN page 84 ...

Page 79: ... floppy disk drive and connect it to your computer To connect a USB floppy disk drive 1 Choose the USB port 1 you prefer to use 2 Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable 2 into the USB port Your USB floppy disk drive 3 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 80: ...mputer 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 no...

Page 81: ...ter 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 power cord 1 of your printer into an AC outlet 2 Choose the USB port 3 you prefer to use 3 Plug one end of a USB printer cable 2 not supplied into the USB port and the other end to your printer ...

Page 82: ...NK cables compatible with your computer include cables with the following part numbers VMC IL4415 a 1 5 meter cable with a 4 pin connector at each end and 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 ...

Page 83: ...r end into the DV In Out ports 3 on the digital video camcorder 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 camcorder shown here is an example your digital video camcorder may need to be connected differently You cannot access the pictures stored on a Memory Stick media when using an i LINK co...

Page 84: ...work ask your network administrator Your computer can be connected to the network with the default settings Telephone lines cannot be connected to the network LAN connector on your computer If the network LAN connector 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 ...

Page 85: ...o 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 86 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 89 Using the Power Saving Modes page 90 Configuring Your Modem page 95 ...

Page 86: ... for users with administrator rights on the computer to change all the setup options on the BIOS setup screen as well as to start the computer The user password is provided for other ordinary users to allow for changing some of the BIOS setup options as well as starting the computer To set the user password you must first set the machine password Once you have set the power on password you cannot ...

Page 87: ...een enter the password twice and press the Enter key The password can be up to 32 alphanumeric characters including spaces long 5 At the confirmation prompt press the Enter key The following is to configure your computer to prompt password entry when you turn it on or display the BIOS setup screen 6 Select Password when Power ON under Security Press the space bar to change the setting from Disable...

Page 88: ...y 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 To remove the password leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter key When confirmation to save the changes is prompted press the Ent...

Page 89: ...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 90: ...omputer to automatically enter Standby or Hibernate mode after a certain period of time click Start and Control Panel Click Performance and Maintenance and Power Options and then change the settings under Power Schemes Using Normal Mode This is the normal state of the 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 sp...

Page 91: ...er button on your computer or the Standby button on the remote commander If you press the power button for more than four seconds your computer will turn off automatically You will lose any unsaved data In Standby mode inserting a disc will automatically launch Windows and may display a window for selecting your preferred software program to launch or may automatically launch a preinstalled CD DVD...

Page 92: ...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 93: ...is mode To activate Hibernate mode Press the power button 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 Press the power button The computer returns to its previous state If you press the power button for more than four seconds your computer will turn off automatically ...

Page 94: ...ill automatically launch Windows and may display a window for selecting your preferred software program to launch or may automatically launch a preinstalled CD DVD program 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 your compute...

Page 95: ...dow appears If you do not see the Phone and Modem Options window click Switch to Classic View on the left side 4 Select your location on the Dialing Rules tab 5 Click the Edit button to change the current configuration The Edit Location window appears Or Click the New button to configure your modem The New Location window appears 6 Check the country region settings and make sure it matches the pla...

Page 96: ...96 n N Customizing Your VAIO Computer 9 Click Apply OK Your modem is configured Before applying new country settings please make sure your phone cable is disconnected from your computer ...

Page 97: ...tee 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 module compartment cover For the type of module and amount of memory installed on your model refer to the online Specifications Contact VAIO Link if you need assi...

Page 98: ...ry module 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 your computer and disconnect the system from its power source that is AC adapter and from any telecommunication links network...

Page 99: ... the computer and any repair costs will not be covered by the warranty Do not place the memory module in a location 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 100: ...ory Module To change or add a memory module 1 Shut down the computer and turn off all peripheral devices 2 Remove the back panel cover 1 unplug the computer and then disconnect all peripheral devices 3 Wait until the computer cools down 4 Remove the back panel cover 1 ...

Page 101: ...etal object such as the chassis frame to discharge static electricity 7 Remove 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 8 Remove the new memory module from its packaging ...

Page 102: ...ule slot and push it in until it clicks into place Do not touch any other components on the motherboard 10 Replace the memory module compartment cover and tighten the screw 11 Plug the computer connect all peripheral devices replace the back panel cover and then turn on the computer ...

Page 103: ...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 104: ...ential damage On Handling the LCD Screen page 105 On Using the Power Source page 106 On Handling Your Computer page 107 On Using the Built in MOTION EYE Camera page 109 On Handling Floppy Disks page 109 On Handling Discs page 110 On Using Headphones page 111 On Handling Memory Stick Media page 112 On Handling the Hard Disk page 113 ...

Page 105: ...sidual image may appear on the LCD screen if the same image is displayed for a long period of time The residual image disappears in a while You can use a screen saver to prevent residual images The LCD screen becomes warm during operation This is normal and does not indicate a malfunction The LCD screen is manufactured using high precision technology You may however see tiny black points and or br...

Page 106: ...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 not planning to use the computer for a long period of time Make sure that the AC outlet is easily accessible When the AC adapter is not used unplug it from the AC outlet Use t...

Page 107: ...ation subject to Heat sources such as radiators or air ducts Direct sunlight Excessive dust Moisture or rain Mechanical vibration or shock Strong magnets or speakers that are not magnetically shielded Ambient temperature of more than 35 C or less than 5 C High humidity Do not place electronic equipment near your computer The electromagnetic field of the computer may cause a malfunction Provide ade...

Page 108: ...ug the computer and contact VAIO Link Make sure you disconnect the power cord before cleaning your computer To avoid losing data if your computer is damaged back up your data regularly Do not grasp the prop up stand to lift your computer as it may damage the stand To lift or move your computer grasp the bottom corners of the main unit not of the LCD screen with both hands from behind the computer ...

Page 109: ... of the built in MOTION EYE camera with a blower brush or a soft brush If the lens is extremely dirty wipe it off with a soft dry cloth Do not rub the plate as it is force sensitive 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 floppy di...

Page 110: ...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 remaining ...

Page 111: ...er from an 8cm disc when not using the disc Keeping the adapter attached may deform the disc Do not leave the adapter in a place subject to high temperatures to avoid deformation Use of the deformed adapter with an 8cm disc may cause a disc recognition error or result in a stuck disc a damaged disc or a malfunction of your computer Not all types of the 8cm disc can fit into the adapter On Using He...

Page 112: ... Extremely high temperatures such as in a car parked in the sun Direct sunlight High humidity Corrosive substances Use the storage case supplied with the Memory Stick media Be sure to make a backup copy of your valuable data Keep the Memory Stick media out of reach of children There is a risk of swallowing the media Note the following when using the Memory Stick Duo media Be sure to insert a Memor...

Page 113: ...careful when handling your computer To avoid damaging your hard disk Do not subject your computer to sudden movements Keep your 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 your computer while reading or writing data to the hard disk...

Page 114: ...stions before contacting VAIO Link Computer page 115 System Security page 122 Built in MOTION EYE Camera page 124 Internet page 127 Networking page 129 CDs and DVDs page 132 Display page 136 Printing page 137 Microphone page 138 Mouse page 139 Speakers page 140 Keyboard page 141 Floppy Disks page 142 PC Cards page 143 Audio Video page 144 Memory Stick Media page 145 Peripherals page 146 ...

Page 115: ...on Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly Disconnect the AC adapter Wait three to five minutes Reattach the AC adapter and press the power button to turn on your computer Condensation may cause your computer to malfunction If this occurs do not use the computer for at least one hour Remove any extra memory modules you may have inserted since purchase Check that you a...

Page 116: ... Enter key 3 Press 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 or Exit Setup and press the Enter key The message Save configuration changes and exit now appears 7 Select Y...

Page 117: ... the MONITOR OFF button Otherwise follow these steps 1 Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power indicator goes out Then turn on your computer again 2 If your computer screen still stays blank unplug the AC adapter and leave the computer for about five minutes Then plug in the AC adapter and turn on the computer again ...

Page 118: ...the Windows 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 Windows Task Manager ...

Page 119: ...my computer If you enter a wrong power on password three times consecutively the Enter Onetime Password message appears and Windows will not start Press the power button for more than four seconds to check that the power indicator goes off Wait for 10 or 15 seconds then restart your computer and enter the correct password When entering the password check that the Num lock indicator and Caps lock i...

Page 120: ... doesn t my computer screen 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 your computer screen to turn off Change the originally selected VAIO s screen saver What should I do if I cannot boot my computer from the USB floppy disk drive connec...

Page 121: ...the or key to select Exit select Exit Save Changes or Exit Setup and then press the Enter key The message Save configuration changes and exit now appears 6 Select Yes and press the Enter key Your computer restarts and you will hear the startup sound at the specified volume level You can also show hide the VAIO animation logo at startup On the screen that is displayed after step 2 above select VAIO...

Page 122: ...perating system is preinstalled on your computer The best way to protect your 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 Your 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 ...

Page 123: ... Security icon on the taskbar If you have not previously registered the antivirus software a series of information wizards appears 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 ap...

Page 124: ...s not indicate a malfunction If the problem persists restart your computer Why are captured images poor in quality The images captured under the fluorescent lamp may show reflection of the light A dark portion in captured images may appear as a noise If the front mirror plate over the lens is dirty you cannot take a clear shot Clean the lens See On Using the Built in MOTION EYE Camera page 109 Why...

Page 125: ...ointing direction of the camera or the brightness of camera images In some software applications you can set an appropriate value to one of the camera properties e g LightSource Flickness etc to eliminate flicker noise Why is the video input from the built in MOTION EYE camera suspended for a few seconds The video input may be suspended for a few seconds if a shortcut key with the Fn key is used t...

Page 126: ...nce and Maintenance icon 3 Click the System icon 4 Click Device Manager on the Hardware tab 5 Double click Imaging devices 6 Right click Sony Visual Communication Camera VGP VCC1 and click Update Driver What should I do if my computer becomes unstable when it enters Standby or Hibernate mode while the built in MOTION EYE camera is in use Do not place your computer into Standby or Hibernate mode wh...

Page 127: ...ephone number the program is dialing is correct Make sure the software you are using is compatible with your computer s modem All preinstalled Sony programs are compatible Make sure the modem is the only device connected to your telephone line Follow these steps to check the settings 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Printers and Other Hardware 3 Click Phone and Modem Options 4 On the M...

Page 128: ... properly to other PC based modems fax machines or your Internet Service Provider ISP do any of the following 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 th...

Page 129: ...nd 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 Networks tab 7 Click View Wireless Networks to see that your access point is selected Make sure the encryption key is correct What should I do if I cannot access the Internet Check the access point settings See the manual that ...

Page 130: ...oaded 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 the manual that came with your access point for more information How do I avoid data transfer interruptions When your computer is connected to an access point data transfer interruptions may occur when using large files or if ...

Page 131: ... using a wireless LAN access point see connectivity information contained in the manual that came with your access point Why does the network connection stop when I change the encryption key Two computers with built in wireless LAN may lose 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...

Page 132: ...t the disc from the optical disc drive 3 Examine the disc for dirt or damage If the disc is dirty see On Handling Discs page 110 for instructions on how to clean it What should I do if the disc does not slide out Make sure your computer is on Press the drive eject button If the disc drive eject button does not work click Start and then My Computer Right click the optical disc drive icon and select...

Page 133: ...tions If you are playing a CD or DVD and cannot hear sound do any of the following 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 your computer Make sure the CD aud...

Page 134: ...ake sure an adhesive label is not affixed to a 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 your comp...

Page 135: ... recordable media do not work What should I do if I cannot write data to DVD RAM media using Windows functions Follow these steps to change the settings 1 Click Start and then My Computer 2 Right click the optical 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 dri...

Page 136: ...Standby button on the wireless keyboard to activate the computer screen See Using the Power Saving Modes page 90 for more information Make sure your computer is securely plugged into a power source and turned on Make sure the power indicator shows the power is on The LCD backlight of your computer may have been turned off Press the MONITOR OFF button What should I do if my computer screen is dark ...

Page 137: ...ctioning after your 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 the printer icon and ...

Page 138: ...ophone is turned on and is properly plugged into the microphone jack on your computer The muting button on the wireless keyboard may have been pressed Press the button once again The volume may have been turned off with one of the volume control buttons on the wireless keyboard Press the other to turn up the volume loud enough to hear sound ...

Page 139: ...yback and restart your computer If the pointer still does not move do any of the following Press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys simultaneously In the Windows Task Manager window select Restart from the Shut Down menu to restart your computer Press and hold the power button for more than four seconds When your computer turns off wait for 10 to 15 seconds and then press the power button again to restart t...

Page 140: ...d enough and the audio option is enabled The speaker volume may have been turned off Press the MONITOR OFF button on the front of your computer or press the muting button on the wireless keyboard The muting button on the wireless keyboard may have been pressed Press the button once again The volume may have been turned off with one of the volume control buttons on the wireless keyboard Press the o...

Page 141: ...d is in the ON position Make sure the supplied AA batteries are properly installed Press the CONNECT button on your computer and then the wireless keyboard to re establish the connection between the two devices What should I do if I cannot enter characters with the keyboard If you cannot use the numeric keypad the Num Lk key may not be activated Check if the Num lock indicator is off If the Num lo...

Page 142: ...e 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 your 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 What should I do if I cannot write data to a floppy d...

Page 143: ...ou are not using a Sony PC Card Why doesn t my computer recognize attached devices For some PC Cards if you alternate between Normal mode and Standby or Hibernate mode while the card is inserted into the PC Card slot your 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 P...

Page 144: ...y used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection The procedure to establish an i LINK connection may vary depending on a software application an operating system and a compatible i LINK device Not all products with an i LINK connection can communicate with each other See the manual that came with your compatible i LINK device for more information on operating conditions and...

Page 145: ... the Memory Stick Formatter software preinstalled on your 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 Use of recorded music requires permission from the ...

Page 146: ...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 See the manual that came with your USB device for more information You may need to install software before you connect the device Try connecting a simple low powered device such as a mouse to test if the port is working at all USB hubs may prevent a de...

Page 147: ... 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 148: ...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 149: ...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 150: ...soft Corporation in the U S and other countries i LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product contains an IEEE 1394 connection Adobe Adobe Acrobat Elements Adobe Reader Adobe Premiere Elements and Adobe Photoshop Elements are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated Norton Internet Security 2006 and Norton Ghost 10 Try Buy are trademarks or registered trademarks of Symantec C...

Page 151: ...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 152: ... 2006 Sony Corporation n ...

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