Sony VGN-A517B User Manual Download Page 185

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185

Troubleshooting

The external display with the DVI-D port does not display properly

This troubleshooting entry applies to selected models only. See Locating Controls and Ports

to see whether your

model is equipped with the DVI-D port. If your computer is supplied with a port replicator, the port replicator may also have
the DVI-D port.

See the printed Troubleshooting Guide first to solve your problems. If the problem persists, proceed as follows:

Click Start and then Control Panel.
The Control Panel window appears.

Click the Appearance and Themes icon.

Click the Display icon.
The Display Properties window appears.

Click the Settings tab.

Click Advanced.
The properties window appears.

Click Options.

Confirm that the button for Alternate DVI operational mode is selected. If not, click to check the button.

Click to check the button for Reduce DVI frequency on high-resolution displays.
The warning message window appears.

Click Yes.

10 Click Yes once again.

Click to check the above button only if the external display with the DVI-D port does not display properly with the default settings.

The external display with the DVI-D port does not display the boot-up screen and the BIOS setup screen at startup. To change the BIOS settings, use
the computer's LCD screen.

Summary of Contents for VGN-A517B

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

Page 2: ...ng a Power Source 29 Using the Battery Pack 30 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely 37 Using Your VAIO Computer 38 Using the Keyboard 39 Using the Touch Pad 42 Using Special function Buttons 43 Using the Optical Disc Drive 45 Using the TV Function 53 Using PC Cards 54 Using the Memory Stick Media 58 Using the Internet 62 Using Wireless LAN WLAN 63 Using the Bluetooth Functionality 73 ...

Page 3: ...rnal Microphone 118 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device 119 Connecting a Printer 122 Connecting an i LINK Device 124 Connecting to a Network LAN 126 Customizing Your VAIO Computer 128 Setting the Password 129 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center 134 Using the Power Saving Modes 135 Managing Power with VAIO Power Management 140 Setting Up Your Language with Windows XP Professi...

Page 4: ...g the Hard Disk 170 Troubleshooting 171 Troubleshooting the optical disc drive 172 Troubleshooting PC Cards 175 Troubleshooting the modem 175 Troubleshooting the Bluetooth functionality 177 Troubleshooting Wireless LAN 180 Troubleshooting Power Management 183 Troubleshooting External Displays 184 Troubleshooting Sound Speaker 186 Troubleshooting Sound Microphone 187 Troubleshooting Floppy Disks 18...

Page 5: ...5 n N Support Options 193 Sony Support Information 193 e Support 194 Trademarks 196 ...

Page 6: ...tal consequential or special damages whether based on tort contract or otherwise arising out of or in connection with this manual the software or other information contained herein or the use thereof Macrovision This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U S patents and other intellectual property rights Use of this copyright protection technology must be author...

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: ...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 Specifications Guide Contains a table of specifications an...

Page 9: ...lp and Support 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 ico...

Page 10: ...ts 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 Online Help files of the software you are using for detailed information on features and troubleshooting Go to www club vaio com to...

Page 11: ...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 12: ...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 13: ...section describes how to get started with using your VAIO computer Locating Controls and Ports page 14 About the Indicator Lights page 27 Connecting a Power Source page 29 Using the Battery Pack page 30 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely page 37 ...

Page 14: ...d Locating Controls and Ports Take a moment to identify the controls and ports shown on the following pages The following illustrations may appear different from your model depending on the country or area of your residency ...

Page 15: ...d page 39 H Touch pad page 42 I Power indicator page 27 J Battery indicator page 27 K Hard disk drive indicator page 27 L Optical disc drive indicator page 27 M Memory Stick media slot page 58 N Memory Stick media indicator page 27 O WIRELESS switch page 63 P Bluetooth indicator page 27 Q WIRELESS LAN indicator page 27 Your computer supports Memory Stick Duo media and Memory Stick Pro high speed a...

Page 16: ...16 n N Getting Started A Speakers B Num lock indicator page 27 C Caps lock indicator page 27 D Scroll lock indicator page 27 E Power button F Auto luminance sensor page 43 ...

Page 17: ...N Getting Started Back A DC In port page 29 B Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 119 C Network Ethernet port page 126 D AV Out jack page 108 E Monitor VGA port page 104 F Air vent Supports high full low speeds ...

Page 18: ...al disc drive tray The drive eject button located next to the optical disc drive functions only with the Microsoft Windows operating system A Drive eject button page 45 B Optical disc drive page 45 C Substitute drive eject button page 45 D Manual eject hole page 172 E Modem port page 62 ...

Page 19: ...rted Left A Microphone jack page 118 B Headphones jack page 95 C i LINK IEEE1394 S400 port page 124 D Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 port page 119 E PC Card slot page 54 F PC Card eject button page 54 Supports high full low speeds ...

Page 20: ...ed Bottom A AV station port replicator connector page 79 B Air vents C LOCK UNLOCK switch page 30 D RELEASE switch page 30 E Battery bay page 30 F CONNECT button page 92 On selected models with wireless mouse functionality ...

Page 21: ... 42 E Power indicator page 27 F Battery indicator page 27 G Hard disk drive Optical disc drive indicator page 27 H Memory Stick media indicator page 27 I WLAN Wireless LAN switch on selected models only page 63 J WIRELESS LAN indicator on selected models only page 27 K Headphones jack page 95 L Microphone jack page 118 ...

Page 22: ...22 n N Getting Started A Display lock latch B S1 button page 43 C S2 button page 43 D Num lock indicator page 27 E Caps lock indicator page 27 F Scroll lock indicator page 27 G Power button ...

Page 23: ...23 n N Getting Started Back A Air vent B Battery connector page 30 ...

Page 24: ...EEE1394 S400 port page 124 D Memory Stick media slot 1 page 58 E Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports 2 page 119 F Monitor VGA port page 104 G DC In port page 29 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 25: ...25 n N Getting Started Left A Network Ethernet port page 126 B Modem port page 62 C Optical disc drive page 45 D Manual eject hole page 172 E Drive eject button page 45 ...

Page 26: ...26 n N Getting Started Bottom A Port replicator connector page 79 B Air vents ...

Page 27: ...e optical disc is not being used Mute VGN A series only Illuminates when the volume is turned off Brightness 8 VGN A series only Illuminates when the screen is on maximum brightness intensity Hard disk VGN A series only Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk Do not enter Standby mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on Hard disk Optical disc drive VGN FS seri...

Page 28: ...Lk indicator is off The Scr Lk key functions differently depending on the program you are using and does not work with all programs Bluetooth VGN A series only Illuminates when the WIRELESS switch is set to ON and Bluetooth technology is enabled WIRELESS LAN Illuminates when the wireless LAN function is running Indicator Functions ...

Page 29: ...rd 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 AC adapter for a long period of time put the comp...

Page 30: ...he time of purchase Installing the Battery Pack To install the battery pack VGN A series models 1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid 2 Slide the LOCK UNLOCK switch 1 on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position 3 Slide the RELEASE switch 2 on the bottom of the computer to the RELEASE position ...

Page 31: ...tment cover 6 Turn over the battery attached to the battery compartment cover 7 Insert the tab on the battery compartment cover into the notch and push the battery down into the compartment until it clicks into place 8 Slide the LOCK UNLOCK switch to the LOCK position to secure the battery on the computer ...

Page 32: ...ck switch 1 to the UNLOCK position 3 Slide the battery into the battery compartment until it clicks into place 4 Slide the lock switch 1 to the LOCK position to secure the battery on the computer When the computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed it uses power from the AC outlet ...

Page 33: ...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 34: ... 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 35: ...he battery while the computer is in Standby mode To remove the battery pack VGN A series models 1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid 2 Slide the LOCK UNLOCK switch 1 on the bottom of the computer to the UNLOCK position 3 Slide the RELEASE switch 2 on the bottom of the computer to the RELEASE position The right edge of the battery compartment cover is pushed up ...

Page 36: ...ttery compartment cover 6 Insert the two tabs on the battery compartment cover diagonally into the notches and push the cover into the compartment until it clicks into place VGN FS series models 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 37: ...ny 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 See the printed Troubleshooting Guide if you have problems shutting down the computer ...

Page 38: ...d confidently Read on to get the most out of using your computer Using the Keyboard page 39 Using the Touch Pad page 42 Using Special function Buttons page 43 Using the Optical Disc Drive page 45 Using the TV Function page 53 Using PC Cards page 54 Using the Memory Stick Media page 58 Using the Internet page 62 Using Wireless LAN WLAN page 63 Using the Bluetooth Functionality page 73 ...

Page 39: ...omputer keyboard but has additional keys that perform model specific tasks For more information on the standard keys see Help and Support Center and click on the Customizing your computer link The VAIO Link web site www vaio link com also contains glossary information to help you use the keyboard ...

Page 40: ...s the built in speaker volume To increase volume press Fn F4 and then M or or keep pressing Fn F4 To decrease volume press Fn F3 and then m or or keep pressing Fn F3 Fn 8 F5 F6 brightness control Adjusts the brightness of the LCD To increase lightness intensity press Fn F6 and then M or or keep pressing Fn F6 To decrease lightness intensity press Fn F5 and then m or or keep pressing Fn F5 Fn T F7 ...

Page 41: ... images 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 P...

Page 42: ... 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 43: ...d the display brightness is adjusted accordingly This setting applies only when the display is set to automatic brightness mode Press the brightness button to set the display to automatic brightness mode You can adjust the general level of the automatic brightness mode in Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 134 Magnify screen button Zoom Changes the image resolution in all appli...

Page 44: ...ause 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 when the standard view is restored When the LCD screen view is magnified switching the view to the external display disables the function and restores the standard view VGN FS series models Special function button Functions S1 S2 buttons By default ...

Page 45: ... 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 until the disc clicks into place 4 Close the tray by pushing it in 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 ...

Page 46: ...cal disc drive connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled CD DVD program See the printed Troubleshooting Guide if you have problems using discs The location of the drive eject button depends on the model your purchased See Locating Controls and Ports page 14 ...

Page 47: ...or use with a VAIO computer be sure to read the notices on the disc packaging carefully to check both playback and recording compatibility with your computer s optical disc drives Sony does NOT guarantee the compatibility of VAIO CD drives with discs that not compliant with the official CD format standard or DVD standard in relation to DVD drives USING NON COMPLIANT DISCS CAN CAUSE FATAL DAMAGE TO...

Page 48: ... 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 your software application to burn discs make sure you exit and close all other applications Never touch the surface of ...

Page 49: ... 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 50: ...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 51: ...ile s or folder s you want to copy and either Right click the file s or folder s point to Send To and click the optical disc drive name Drag the file s or folder s onto the optical disc drive icon in the Files Stored on This Computer panel 4 Close Windows Explorer 5 Click Start and then My Computer 6 Click the optical disc drive icon under Devices with Removable Storage A new window appears with t...

Page 52: ...ons on how to use a program see the help guide included with the DVD software program Copying Files to DVDs To copy files to a DVD R or DVD RW 1 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 the submenu For instructions on how to use a program see the help guide inclu...

Page 53: ...iew them and create multiple folders Set up a timer to record channels at a repeated time Suspend viewing TV time shifting Stream your recorded TV contents via Ethernet or WLAN to connected PCs Sony cannot guarantee the streaming of recorded content if it does not meet a certain level of high quality For details on using the VAIO Zone software and the remote control please see the dedicated guide ...

Page 54: ...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 55: ... 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 not force a PC Card into the slot It may damage the connector...

Page 56: ...Card icon on the taskbar and close the card Close any applications that use the PC Card before removing the card Otherwise data may be lost 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 sys...

Page 57: ...57 n N Using Your VAIO Computer 10 Gently take hold of the Card and pull it out of the slot 11 If the PC Card release button is still out push it back in ...

Page 58: ...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 Write protecting a Memory Stick Media Some versions of Memory Stick media are designed with an erasure prevention switch to protect valuable data from accidental erasure or overwrit...

Page 59: ...he Memory Stick media with the arrow facing up and toward the Memory Stick media slot 2 If the computer is equipped with the Memory Stick media slot cover lift the slot cover 3 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks in place The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and appears in your My Computer window as a local drive under the appropriate let...

Page 60: ... Inserting the media improperly may damage the computer The computer supports Memory Stick Duo media For more information on Memory Stick Duo media visit the Memory Stick web site at http www memorystick com en To view the contents of the Memory Stick media 1 Click Start and then My Computer to open the My Computer window 2 Double click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files sa...

Page 61: ...ia in toward the computer The Memory Stick media ejects 3 Pull the Memory Stick media out of the slot Always remove the Memory Stick media gently or it may pop out unexpectedly Do not remove the Memory Stick media while the Memory Stick media indicator is turned on If you do you may lose data Large volumes of data may take time to load so be sure the indicator is off before removing the Memory Sti...

Page 62: ...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 Al...

Page 63: ...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 64: ...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 65: ...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 66: ...ears 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 from the Network Authentication drop down box 10 Select WEP from the Data Encryp...

Page 67: ... See the printed Specifications Guide 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 the first computer you configure 3 Hexadecimal A number representation usin...

Page 68: ... right panel under LAN or High Speed Internet double click Wireless Network Connection The Wireless Network Connection Status window appears 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 Close 10 T...

Page 69: ...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 70: ...ctions 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 printed Specifications Guide to see whether your mod...

Page 71: ...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 72: ...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 73: ...ity You can establish wireless communication between your computer and other Bluetooth devices such as another computer or a mobile phone You can transfer data between these devices without cables and up to 10 meters range in open space To connect to a Bluetooth device 1 Turn on the WIRELESS switch 2 Double click on the taskbar to display the Wireless Device Switch window 3 Select the Enable Bluet...

Page 74: ...cation Type of operating system Use of both Wireless LAN and Bluetooth functionalities at the same time on the computer Size of file being exchanged Note that due to limitations of the Bluetooth standard large files may occasionally be corrupted during continuous transfer due to electromagnetic interference from the environment All Bluetooth devices must be certified to make sure that the applicab...

Page 75: ...h as a wireless LAN PC Card Read the Regulations Guide before using the Bluetooth functionality The Bluetooth functionality may not work depending on the third party devices or the software version used by third party companies Bluetooth Security The Bluetooth wireless technology has an authentication function which allows you to determine whom you choose to communicate With the authentication fun...

Page 76: ...computer a mobile phone a PDA a headset a mouse or a digital camera without the use of any cables To communicate with another Bluetooth device To communicate with another Bluetooth device you need first to set up the Bluetooth functionality For setting up and using the Bluetooth functionality see the help file on the Bluetooth Utility software ...

Page 77: ...h Settings from the menu 2 Select Help from the Help menu The passkey can be different each time but must be the same at both ends For certain devices such as a mouse no passkey can be entered Stopping the Bluetooth Connection To stop the Bluetooth connection turn off the WIRELESS switch The Bluetooth indicator turns off ...

Page 78: ...e 92 Connecting External Speakers page 95 Using the Remote Commander page 101 Connecting an External Display page 104 Selecting Display Modes page 112 Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 115 Connecting an External Microphone page 118 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device page 119 Connecting a Printer page 122 Connecting an i LINK Device page 124 Connecting to a Network LAN page 126 ...

Page 79: ...port replicator enables you to connect additional peripherals to your computer such as a printer and an external display A port replicator may be supplied with your computer depending on the model you purchased If not you can additionally purchase an optional port replicator ...

Page 80: ...aker jacks right and left page 97 J Optical Out port Output frequency 96 kHz 48 kHz 44 kHz Variable K Network Ethernet port 1000BASE T 100BASE TX 10BASE T page 126 L Composite Audio Out jacks page 110 M Composite Video Out jack page 110 N S Video Out port page 110 O Printer port page 122 P Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports 2 page 119 Q DC In port page 29 1 The shape of the VHF UHF port varies depending o...

Page 81: ...o device s audio cable to the Composite Audio In jack When a video cable is connected to each of the S Video Out and Composite Video Out jacks the Composite Video Out jack is disabled A Composite Audio In jacks page 81 B Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 119 C Monitor VGA port page 105 D DVI D port page 105 E Optical Out port Output frequency 96 kHz 48 kHz 44 kHz Variable F Network Ethernet port 100...

Page 82: ...Jacks A Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports 1 page 119 B Headphones Speakers jack page 95 C Composite Video In jack page 82 D Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports 1 page 119 E DC In port page 29 F Network Ethernet port 100BASE TX 10BASE T page 126 G Monitor VGA port page 105 H Optical Out port Output frequency 96 kHz 48 kHz 44 kHz Variable I Composite Audio In jacks page 82 J S Video In port page 82 K VHF UHF port 2...

Page 83: ... 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 29 B Network Ethernet port 100BASE TX 10BASE T page 126 C Monitor VGA port page 105 D Printer port page 122 E Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 119 Supports high full low spee...

Page 84: ...icator To attach your computer to the port replicator VGN A series models 1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer 2 Plug the power cord 1 into the AC adapter 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 ...

Page 85: ...85 n N Using Peripheral Devices 4 Open the port replicator connector cover 5 Align the bottom connector of the computer with the connector on the port replicator and push down until it clicks into place ...

Page 86: ...86 n N Using Peripheral Devices 6 Slide the lock switch to LOCK 7 Turn on the computer ...

Page 87: ...odels 1 Disconnect all peripherals from the computer 2 Plug the power cord 1 into the AC adapter 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 ...

Page 88: ...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 or the optional Sony adapter 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 compu...

Page 89: ...cator To prevent loss of unsaved data be sure to turn off the computer before disconnecting it from the port replicator To disconnect your computer from the port replicator VGN A series models 1 Turn off the computer and the connected peripherals 2 Slide the lock switch to UNLOCK ...

Page 90: ...90 n N Using Peripheral Devices 3 Lift the computer away from the port replicator 4 Close the port replicator connector cover on the bottom of the computer ...

Page 91: ...tor 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 power unplug the AC adapter ...

Page 92: ...ooth glass or magazines that have half tone printing Effective usage distance depends on the environment A Left button Click or double click the left button to select items To drag and drop items hold the left button down while sliding the mouse then release the button to drop the item B Central wheel Rotate the central wheel to scroll up or down a page Press the wheel once to lock the scroll acti...

Page 93: ...ust establish communication between your computer and the mouse Two batteries are supplied with your computer for use in the wireless mouse To connect the wireless mouse 1 Insert two AA batteries into the wireless mouse as shown 2 Turn on the computer 3 Press the CONNECT button 1 on the computer ...

Page 94: ...ries supplied for use in the wireless mouse are identified by a sticker For mouse on the packaging If your wireless mouse does not operate properly the batteries may need to be replaced If your wireless mouse is not being used for an extended period of time remove the batteries to avoid possible damage from battery leakage Adjusting the Mouse Functions 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click ...

Page 95: ...whether your model is supplied with external speakers External speakers for VGN A series models A Volume control The right speaker is equipped with the volume control Turn this control clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the speaker volume B Infrared receiver for remote commander The left speaker is equipped with the infrared receiver for communications with the remote commander Point your rem...

Page 96: ...sing Peripheral Devices External speakers for VGN FS series models A Headphones jack B Volume control Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the speaker volume C Power button Turns on and off the speakers ...

Page 97: ...ers External speakers for VGN A series models 1 Attach the computer to an A V port replicator 2 Plug the volume cable 1 of the speaker to the Volume jack on the port replicator 3 Plug the speaker cables 2 to the Speaker jacks 4 Plug the USB cable 3 to one of the USB ports ...

Page 98: ...se a remote commander for volume control make sure to connect the speaker s USB cable to the USB port Make sure to place the external speakers in a stable position Do not grasp the depression on the front of the speaker to take hold of it ...

Page 99: ...AC adapter and an AC outlet 3 Plug the cable attached to the AC adapter 2 to the right speaker 3 4 Plug the cable from the left speaker 4 to the speaker L jack on the right speaker 5 Plug the speaker cable 5 to the headphones jack on the port replicator You can also enhance the sound quality of the computer by directly connecting other external speakers ...

Page 100: ...he 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 101: ... infrared receiver for communications with the remote commander supplied with VGN A series models is located on the supplied left external speaker Make sure to attach the computer to the supplied A V port replicator and connect the speakers to the computer before using the remote commander If your computer is one of VGN FS series models you need to connect the supplied external infrared receiver t...

Page 102: ...ress the MUTING button to turn on the speakers B Channel buttons Select the respective channels C Direct buttons Activate individual features of VAIO Zone D Volume button Increases or decreases the speaker volume E Channel control button Switches the channel in the ascending or descending order F STANDBY button Puts the system into Standby mode G Operation buttons Use these buttons for VAIO Zone o...

Page 103: ...al Devices To connect the external infrared receiver to VGN FS series models 1 Choose the USB port 1 you prefer to use 2 Plug the external infrared receiver cable 2 into the USB port You can now use your infrared receiver 3 ...

Page 104: ... display or a projector Connecting a Computer Display page 105 Connecting a Multimedia Computer Display page 107 Connecting a TV page 108 Connecting a Projector page 111 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 105: ...er end into an AC outlet 2 If you want to connect a VGA monitor plug the display cable 2 not supplied into the monitor VGA port 3 a on the computer or on the port replicator 3 If you want to connect a TFT DVI monitor plug the display cable not supplied into the DVI D port on the port replicator VGN FS series models 1 If necessary plug one end of the display s power cord 1 into the display and the ...

Page 106: ...erface Digital It is a type of DVI connector that supports only digital video signals no analog video signals It has 24 pins A DVI I connector Digital Visual Interface Integrated supports digital video and analog video signals It has 29 pins A video adapter device is required to connect a VGA monitor using the DVI D port ...

Page 107: ...ptional 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 108: ...ck 3 T on the computer and the other to the TV 3 Switch the input channel of the TV to external input 4 Set up the TV configuration system You need to use an AV cable that has a minijack connector on one end and 3 RCA also called cinch connectors on the other end If your TV does not have RCA connectors but it has a Scart connector you need an RCA to Scart converter If your computer has an S video ...

Page 109: ...d use If the display resolution of the computer is more than 1024 x 768 pixels a part of the image cannot be displayed on your TV The hidden area on your TV can be seen by moving the cursor on the computer If you want to display the full image change the display resolution of the computer to 1024 x 768 pixels or lower ...

Page 110: ...Video jacks on your TV If your TV has s video input you can have better visual quality by outputting image to s video rather than composite video In such a case please plug one end of the S Video cable 3 into the S Video Out jack 4 on the port replicator and the other end into the S Video jack on the TV You will still need to connect Composite Audio Out jacks in order to hear sound through TV spea...

Page 111: ...nal 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 112: ... the printed Specifications Guide for detailed information on the video controller If you want to work on the computer s LCD and the external display at the same time see Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 115 for more information To select a display Models with the ATI video controller 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click Appearance and Themes 3 Click Display 4 Click the Settings t...

Page 113: ...Click Advanced 6 Click the tab with its name beginning with Intel R 7 Click Graphic Properties 8 Select a display from the Display Devices menu 9 Click OK You may not be able to display on the computer s LCD and the external display or projector at the same time depending on the type of your external display or projector Before turning on the computer turn on the peripheral devices ...

Page 114: ...ts name beginning with GeForce 7 Select nView Display Settings from the left menu To change the current display select the desired display from the Current display drop down list To display the output on the computer s LCD and the external display at the same time select Clone from the nView Display mode drop down list To specify displays use the Primary Display Secondary Display drop down list 8 ...

Page 115: ...rag objects such as an open application window or a toolbar from one display to the other Your external display or TV 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 t...

Page 116: ... Select the Extend my Windows desktop onto this monitor option 7 Click Apply and then OK If the Monitor Settings window appears click YES Models with the Intel video controller 1 Right click on the desktop to display the context menu 2 Point to Graphics Options and click Graphics Properties 3 Select Extended Desktop from the Display Devices menu To change the primary and secondary device settings ...

Page 117: ...elect Laptop Display from the Primary display drop down list 10 Click OK To deactivate the Multiple Monitors mode deselect the check box in Step 6 On VGN A series models you can also select and deactivate the Multiple Monitors mode just by pressing the S1 button if you have changed its assignment to Multiple Monitors with VAIO Control Center For details on changing the button assignment see Settin...

Page 118: ...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 119: ...ce 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 US...

Page 120: ...puter To connect a USB floppy disk drive 1 Choose the USB port you prefer to use 2 Plug the USB floppy disk drive cable into the USB port The VAIO logo on the disk drive should be facing up Your USB floppy disk drive is now ready for use When using a USB floppy disk drive do not apply force on the USB port This may cause a malfunction ...

Page 121: ...USB cable directly from the computer To disconnect a USB floppy disk drive 1 Close all programs accessing the floppy disk drive 2 Double click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar The Safely Remove Hardware window appears 3 Select the floppy disk drive you want to unplug 4 Click Stop The Stop a Hardware device window appears 5 Make sure the floppy disk drive is selected and click OK A me...

Page 122: ...ting 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 123: ...to an AC outlet 2 Plug the printer cable 2 supplied with your printer into the printer port 3 on the computer or on the optional port replicator Depending on the model you purchased See the printed Specifications Guide for details on your model Before connecting the printer turn off the computer and the printer and unplug the AC adapter and the power cord ...

Page 124: ...pends on the transfer rate of the external device 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 An i LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed The i LINK connection varies depending on the soft...

Page 125: ...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 126: ...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 Depending on the model you purchased See the printed Specifications Guide to see whether your model supports a 1000BASE TX connection The computer can be connected to the network with the default settings If the main unit is docked you ...

Page 127: ... electric current to the connectors may cause damage overheating or fire Home intercom speakerphone or business use telephone lines multi line business telephone Network lines such as 1000BASE T 100BASE TX and 10BASE T lines depending on the model you purchased Public telephone subscriber line PBX private branch exchange Lines other than those mentioned above Do not plug a telephone cable into the...

Page 128: ...ngs you will learn how to prepare your modem for use how to use and customize the look of your Sony software and utilities etc Setting the Password page 129 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 134 Using the Power Saving Modes page 135 Managing Power with VAIO Power Management page 140 Setting Up Your Language with Windows XP Professional page 143 ...

Page 129: ... to enter the password after the VAIO logo appears In this way you can protect your computer from unauthorized access Adding the Power on Password You cannot start the computer without entering the power on password Make sure not to forget the password If you forget the power on password and need assistance to cancel it a cancellation fee will be charged ...

Page 130: ...he password should be up to 7 alphanumeric characters long 5 When Password installed appears press the Enter key The following is to configure the computer to prompt password entry when you turn on the computer or display the BIOS setup screen 6 Select Password when Power ON under Security Press the Enter key use the M or m key to select Enabled and then press the Enter key 7 Use the or key to sel...

Page 131: ...e password twice and press the Enter key The password should be up to 7 alphanumeric characters long The following is to configure the computer to prompt password entry when you turn on the computer or display the BIOS setup screen 5 Select Password When Power ON under Security Press the space bar to change the setting from Disabled to Enabled 6 Use the or key to select Exit and then Exit Save Cha...

Page 132: ... to display another screen select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key The password entry screen appears 5 Enter a new password twice and press the Enter key Enter a new password both for Enter New Password and Confirm New Password When Password installed appears press the Enter key To remove the password leave Enter New Password blank and press the Enter key 6 Use the or key to selec...

Page 133: ...curity to display another screen select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key 5 On the password entry screen enter the current password once and then a new password twice and press the Enter key To remove the password leave Enter New Password and Confirm New Password blank and press Enter 6 Use the or key to select Exit and then Exit Save Changes and press the Enter key On the Setup Co...

Page 134: ...lick 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 135: ...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 136: ...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 137: ...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 138: ...t 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 compute...

Page 139: ...he time of shutting down in the normal way When the computer is in Hibernate mode you cannot insert a disc Hibernate mode requires more time than Standby 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 turns off ...

Page 140: ...requirements for power consumption VAIO Power Management is a software application developed exclusively for VAIO computers With this software application you can enhance the Windows power management functions to ensure better operations of your computer and for longer battery life For more information on VAIO Power Management see the help file on the VAIO Power Management software ...

Page 141: ...ng you the power status VAIO Power Management functionalities are added to the Windows Power Options Properties To activate VAIO Power Management 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 VAIO Power Management tab To restore the default settings 1 On the VAIO Power Management tab click Adv...

Page 142: ...ance and Maintenance 3 Click Power Options The Power Options Properties window appears 4 Select the Power Schemes tab 5 Select a power scheme from the Power schemes drop down list 6 If you now select the VAIO Power Management tab you see that the selected power scheme appears to the right of Power Scheme 7 If necessary you can change the items in the list for example the brightness of the LCD 8 Cl...

Page 143: ...at 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 the closest to this region I type mostly in this language I use this type of keyboard 3 In the End User...

Page 144: ...on 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 145: ...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 146: ... 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 printed Specifications Guide Contact VAIO Link if you need assistanc...

Page 147: ...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 148: ... 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 149: ...emory module to the memory module slot on the bottom of the computer 1 Shut down the computer and disconnect all peripheral devices 2 Unplug the computer and remove the battery 3 Wait until the computer cools down 4 Unscrew the central screw on the bottom of the computer and remove the memory module compartment cover ...

Page 150: ...ck of the computer to discharge static electricity 6 Remove the memory module Pull the tabs 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 151: ...module into the slot Push in the memory module until it clicks into place Do not touch any other components on the motherboard 9 Close the memory module compartment cover and then tighten the screws on the bottom of the computer 10 Reinstall the battery pack and turn on the computer ...

Page 152: ...memory module to the memory module underneath the keyboard 1 Shut down the computer and disconnect all peripheral devices 2 Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack 3 Wait until the computer cools down 4 Unscrew the two screws next to the memory slot ...

Page 153: ...d 6 Introduce a sharp object such as a fine screwdriver between the keys indicated on the picture 1 and push gently upwards 7 Lift the keyboard from the touch pad side turn it over the indicators and gently prop it up against the LCD display Be careful not to detach the cable when lifting the keyboard ...

Page 154: ...k of the computer to discharge static electricity 9 Remove the memory module Pull the tabs 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 10 Remove the new memory module from its packaging ...

Page 155: ...n N Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 11 Install the memory module Slide the memory module into the slot Push in the memory module until it clicks into place Do not touch any other components on the motherboard ...

Page 156: ...yboard and then press it into the computer 13 Close the LCD screen lid and turn over the computer upside down 14 Close the memory module compartment cover and then tighten the screws on the bottom of the computer 15 Reinstall the battery and turn on the computer ...

Page 157: ...y module 1 Shut down the computer and disconnect 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 ...

Page 158: ...connector panel on the back of the computer to discharge static electricity 6 Remove the memory module Pull the tabs 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 ...

Page 159: ...emory module slot and push 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 160: ...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 161: ...rom potential damage On Handling the LCD Screen page 162 On Using the Power Source page 163 On Handling Your Computer page 164 On Handling Floppy Disks page 166 On Handling Discs page 167 On Using the Battery Pack page 168 On Using Headphones page 169 On Handling Memory Stick Media page 169 On Handling the Hard Disk page 170 ...

Page 162: ...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 163: ...aused 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...

Page 164: ...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 165: ...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 166: ... 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 167: ...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 168: ... normal and is not cause for concern Keep the battery pack away from all sources of heat Keep the battery pack dry Do not open or try to disassemble the battery pack Do not expose the battery pack to any mechanical shock If you are not using the computer for an extended period of time remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery If after fully charging the battery pac...

Page 169: ...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 170: ...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 171: ...sc drive page 172 Troubleshooting PC Cards page 175 Troubleshooting the modem page 175 Troubleshooting the Bluetooth functionality page 177 Troubleshooting Wireless LAN page 180 Troubleshooting Power Management page 183 Troubleshooting External Displays page 184 Troubleshooting Sound Speaker page 186 Troubleshooting Sound Microphone page 187 Troubleshooting Floppy Disks page 189 Troubleshooting Pr...

Page 172: ...for example a paperclip into the manual eject hole on the optical disc drive to slide out the tray The location of the eject button and hole depends on your model of your computer See Locating Controls and Ports page 14 I cannot play a disc After inserting the disc wait for a few seconds for the system to detect it before you try to access it Make sure the label of the disc is facing up If the dis...

Page 173: ...rivers are installed properly To display the Device Manager click Start Control Panel and Performance and Maintenance Click the System icon and then the Device Manager button on the Hardware tab A dirty or damaged disc may cause the computer to hang while it tries to read the disc If necessary reboot the computer remove the disc and then check that it is not dirty or damaged Check your PG settings...

Page 174: ...ray does not eject even when the eject button is pressed Check that the computer is turned on The CD writing application software may be stopping the disc from being ejected Make sure the computer is not in Standby or Hibernate mode The disc tray ejects even when it has been locked into place Ensure that the disc is placed with the label side facing up Clean the disc and the optical disc drive len...

Page 175: ...eXchange PABX In the Phone and Modem Options window Control Panel Printers and Other Hardware Phone and Modem Options check that your modem is listed on the Modems tab and that the location information is correct on the Dialing Rules tab If you do not see the Phone and Modem Options icon click Switch to Classic View on the left side We recommend you use country specific phone plug to plug the phon...

Page 176: ... too forcefully My modem connection is slow Many factors influence modem connection speed including telephone line noise or compatibility with telephone equipment such as fax machines or other modems If you think your modem is not connecting properly to other PC based modems fax machines or your Internet Service Provider check the following Have your phone company check that your phone line is fre...

Page 177: ...to communicate is on See the other device s manual for more details If the device with which you want to communicate is already communicating with another Bluetooth device it may not be found or it may not be able to communicate with the computer To allow other Bluetooth devices to communicate with your computer right click the Bluetooth icon on the taskbar and select Device Properties and Securit...

Page 178: ...cannot connect to service supported by target Bluetooth device Connection is only possible for services also supported by the computer with the Bluetooth functionality For more details see the help file on the Bluetooth Utility software I cannot connect to a Bluetooth device by specifying its IP address on a Personal Area Network PAN The Bluetooth utility uses Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol D...

Page 179: ...not connect to a Bluetooth device in Personal Area Network User mode If the device to which you want to connect supports Bluetooth communiation in Personal Area Network mode only you cannot establish a connection from your computer ...

Page 180: ...e power of the Access Point is turned on Check if the Access Point is displayed in the Available networks window To check this click Start and then Control Panel Click Network and Internet Connections Click the Network Connections icon Right click the Wireless Network Connection icon and select Properties Select the Wireless Networks tab Check if the Access Point is displayed in Available networks...

Page 181: ...he Access Point If several computers communicate with the same Access Point the concentration may be too high Wait a few minutes and try to access again If a Wireless LAN device using the IEEE802 11g standard communicates with a device using the IEEE802 11b standard then it is normal that the speed reduces Devices using the IEEE802 11g standard are 5 times faster than the ones using the IEEE802 11...

Page 182: ...he Services icon The Services window appears 5 Check Status and Startup Type for Wireless Zero Configuration When Started and Automatic are shown under Status and Startup Type respectively the Wireless Zero Configuration service is active To activate the Wireless Zero Configuration service 1 On the Services window right click Wireless Zero Configuration and click Properties The Wireless Zero Confi...

Page 183: ... and then changed before the computer completely enters the lower power state To restore the computer to its normal operating stability 1 Close all open applications 2 Press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys simultaneously and select Restart from the shut down menu drop down list The computer restarts 3 If the procedure does not work press and hold the power button for four seconds or longer to shut down t...

Page 184: ...ternal display or the way it is connected the Plug and Display function may not be available Use the Fn F7 keys to select the output destination I cannot display contents on two or more displays at the same time You cannot display contents on multiple external displays at the same time Select one of the external displays ...

Page 185: ... Appearance and Themes icon 3 Click the Display icon The Display Properties window appears 4 Click the Settings tab 5 Click Advanced The properties window appears 6 Click Options 7 Confirm that the button for Alternate DVI operational mode is selected If not click to check the button 8 Click to check the button for Reduce DVI frequency on high resolution displays The warning message window appears...

Page 186: ... minimum Press the Fn F4 keys and then the M or key or keep pressing the Fn F4 keys to increase the volume If you use external speakers check that the speakers are properly connected and the volume is turned up If the speakers have a mute button make sure it is off If batteries power the speakers check that the batteries are inserted properly and that they are charged If you have connected an audi...

Page 187: ...w appears 2 Click Sounds Speech and Audio Devices and then Sounds and Audio Devices 3 Click Volume under Sound recording on the Audio tab 4 See if the Select check box for Microphone Balance is selected If not click the check box 5 Move the slider up or down to adjust the volume 6 If the volume is still too high or too low select Advanced Controls from the Options menu The Advanced button appears ...

Page 188: ...k the Advanced button and select the Mono Mic check box under Other Controls This audio channel setting is only applied to sound recording with a microphone Stereo sound is not recorded with a stereo microphone This troubleshooting entry applies to VGN A series models only Proceed as follows to change the audio channel setting 1 Click Start and then Control Panel The Control Panel window appears 2...

Page 189: ...oppy disk drive is not recognized as drive A To set the floppy disk drive to A 1 Turn the system power on 2 Connect the floppy disk drive 3 Select Control Panel from the Start menu 4 Click Performance and Maintenance 5 Click System 6 Select the Hardware tab then click Device Manager 7 Select Universal Serial Bus controllers then Y E Data USB Floppy 8 From the Action menu click Uninstall 9 Keep cli...

Page 190: ...oceed as follows to check the printer port settings 1 Click Start and then Control Panel 2 Click the Printers and Other Hardware icon 3 Click the Printers and Faxes icon 4 Right click the printer to select Properties 5 Click the Ports tab 6 Check if the check box for USB001 is selected If another check box is selected click the box for USB001 7 Click OK If the above procedure does not work right c...

Page 191: ...and Faxes icon 4 Right click the printer to select Properties 5 Click the Ports tab 6 Click the check box for Enable bidirectional support to deselect it 7 Click OK This change to the settings will disable the bidirectional communication functions of your printer such as data transfer status monitoring and remote panel Check the physical connections between the computer and printer the AC adapter ...

Page 192: ...ee an error message Close all open applications and restart the computer Frequent recording of images to a digital video device while using DVgate Plus sometimes causes this error Your DV device will need to have DV In Out in order to be able to transfer your files to the DV device I cannot use digital devices Check that the DV device is turned on and that the cables are properly connected If you ...

Page 193: ... you 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 ...

Page 194: ...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 195: ...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 196: ...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 IEEE1394 connection Adobe Adobe Acrobat Elements Adobe Acrobat Professional Adobe Reader Adobe Premiere Standard and Adobe Photoshop Elements are trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated MoodLogic is a trademark of MoodLogic Inc Norton Internet Security 2005 AntiSpyware E...

Page 197: ...ames are those of their respective owners All other names of systems products and services are trademarks 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 printed Specifications Guide to see what software is available for your model ...

Page 198: ... 2005 Sony Corporation n ...

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