Sony VGN-NR31ER/S Page 78 User Manual Download

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Customizing Your VAIO Computer

Customizing Your VAIO Computer

This section briefly describes how to change the main settings of your VAIO 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 79)

❑

Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center

(page 84)

❑

Using the Power Saving Modes

(page 85)

❑

Managing Power with VAIO Power Management

(page 90)

❑

Configuring Your Modem

(page 91)

Summary of Contents for VGN-NR31ER/S

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

Page 2: ...cting a Power Source 20 Using the Battery Pack 21 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely 25 Using Your VAIO Computer 26 Using the Keyboard 27 Using the Touch Pad 29 Using Special function Buttons 30 Using the Optical Disc Drive 31 Using the ExpressCard Module 40 Using the Memory Stick Media 43 Using Other Memory Cards 49 Using the Internet 52 Using Wireless LAN WLAN 54 ...

Page 3: ...nnecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device 71 Connecting a Printer 74 Connecting an i LINK Device 75 Connecting to a Network LAN 77 Customizing Your VAIO Computer 78 Setting the Password 79 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center 84 Using the Power Saving Modes 85 Managing Power with VAIO Power Management 90 Configuring Your Modem 91 Upgrading Your VAIO Computer 93 Adding and Removing Me...

Page 4: ...ling Discs 106 On Using the Battery Pack 107 On Using Headphones 108 On Handling Memory Stick Media 109 On Handling the Hard Disk 110 On Updating Your Computer 111 Troubleshooting 112 Computer 113 System Security 120 Battery 121 Internet 123 Networking 125 Optical Discs 129 Display 133 Printing 137 Microphone 138 Mouse 139 Speakers 140 Touch Pad 141 ...

Page 5: ...5 n N Keyboard 142 Floppy Disks 143 Audio Video 144 Memory Stick Media 145 Peripherals 146 Support Options 147 Sony Support Information 148 e Support 149 Trademarks 151 ...

Page 6: ...ter and welcome to the on screen User Guide Sony has combined leading edge technology in audio video computing and communications to provide state of the art personal computing experience External views illustrated in this manual may look slightly different from those of your computer ...

Page 7: ...ness 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 this manual the software or other information contained herein or the use thereof In the manual the or marks are not specifi...

Page 8: ...uide Contains solutions to common problems and computer malfunctions an explanation of how to make a backup copy of your data and recover your computer system and sources of support information Regulations Guarantee EULA and Service Support Contains Sony guarantee conditions safety regulations modem regulations wireless LAN regulations wireless WAN regulations Bluetooth regulations end user softwa...

Page 9: ...3 Select the guide you want to read You can manually browse to the user guides by going to Computer VAIO C your C drive Documentation Documentation and opening the folder for your language To go to Web sites described in this manual by clicking their respective URLs beginning with http your computer must be connected to the Internet Specifications The online specifications describe the hardware an...

Page 10: ...urce for practical advice tutorials and demonstrations to help you learn to use your computer Use the Search feature Index or table of contents to view all Windows Help resources including those that are on the Internet To access Windows Help and Support click Start and Help and Support Or go to Windows Help and Support by pressing and holding the Microsoft Windows key and pressing the F1 key Furt...

Page 11: ...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 eyes muscles or tendons Furniture and posture Sit in a chair with good back support Adjust the level of the chair so your feet are...

Page 12: ...he display as well Lighting Choose a location where windows and lights do not cause glare and reflection on the display Use indirect lighting to avoid bright spots on the display Proper lighting adds to your comfort and work efficiency Positioning an external display When using an external display set the display at a comfortable viewing distance Make sure the display screen is at eye level or sli...

Page 13: ...is section describes how to get started using your VAIO computer Locating Controls and Ports page 14 About the Indicator Lights page 19 Connecting a Power Source page 20 Using the Battery Pack page 21 Shutting Down Your Computer Safely page 25 ...

Page 14: ...ock indicator page 19 F Power button G LCD screen page 101 H Built in speakers stereo I Keyboard page 27 J Touch pad page 29 K SD memory card slot page 49 L Media Access indicator page 19 M Memory Stick slot page 45 N Power indicator page 19 O Battery indicator page 19 P Hard disk drive indicator page 19 Q WIRELESS LAN Wireless LAN indicator page 19 R WIRELESS LAN switch page 54 Your computer supp...

Page 15: ...15 n N Getting Started Back A DC IN port page 20 B Battery connector page 21 C Network Ethernet port page 77 D Modem port page 52 ...

Page 16: ...d Right A ExpressCard 34 slot page 40 B Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 71 C i LINK 4 pin S400 port page 75 D Headphones jack page 62 E Microphone jack page 70 F Monitor port page 63 G Air vent Support high full low speeds ...

Page 17: ...arted Left A Security slot B Optical disc drive page 31 C Optical disc drive indicator page 19 D Drive eject button page 31 E Manual eject hole page 129 F Hi Speed USB USB 2 0 ports page 71 Support high full low speeds ...

Page 18: ...18 n N Getting Started Bottom A Air vents ...

Page 19: ...he indicator is off the optical disc media is not being used Hard disk drive Illuminates when data is read from or written to the hard disk drive Do not enter Sleep mode or turn off the computer when this indicator is on Num lock Press the Num Lk key to activate the numeric keypad Press it a second time to deactivate the numeric keypad The numeric keypad is not active when the indicator is off Cap...

Page 20: ...AC adapter 3 2 Plug the other end of the power cord into an AC outlet 2 3 Plug the cable connected to the AC adapter 3 into the DC IN port 4 on the computer 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 intend to use your computer for a long period of time place the computer into Hibernate mode See Using H...

Page 21: ...rtment until it clicks into place 4 Slide the battery lock switch 1 to the LOCK position to secure the battery pack on the computer When your computer is directly connected to AC power and has a battery pack installed it uses power from the AC outlet Certain rechargeable batteries do not meet Sony quality and safety standards For safety reasons this computer only functions with genuine Sony batter...

Page 22: ...omputer The computer automatically charges the battery pack the battery indicator light flashes in a double blink pattern as the battery pack charges When the battery pack is about 85 charged the battery indicator turns off Battery indicator light status Meaning On The computer is using battery power Blinks The battery pack is running out of power Double blinks The battery pack is charging Off The...

Page 23: ...y discharged battery pack does not affect the battery life The battery indicator light is on while you use the battery pack as a power source When battery life is nearly depleted both the battery and power indicator lights start flashing For some software applications and some peripheral devices your computer may not enter Hibernate mode even when battery life is low To avoid loss of data when usi...

Page 24: ...n and not connected to the AC adapter or if you remove the battery pack while the computer is in Sleep mode To remove the battery pack 1 Turn off the computer and close the LCD screen lid 2 Slide the battery lock switch 1 inward 3 Slide and hold the battery RELEASE latch 2 and slide the battery pack away from the computer ...

Page 25: ... as described below To shut down your computer 1 Turn off any peripherals connected to the computer 2 Click Start the arrow next to the Lock button and Shut Down 3 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 26: ...your VAIO computer Using the Keyboard page 27 Using the Touch Pad page 29 Using Special function Buttons page 30 Using the Optical Disc Drive page 31 Using the ExpressCard Module page 40 Using the Memory Stick Media page 43 Using Other Memory Cards page 49 Using the Internet page 52 Using Wireless LAN WLAN page 54 ...

Page 27: ...ons Fn F2 speaker switch Turns on and off the built in speakers and the headphones Fn 2 F3 F4 speaker volume Adjusts the built in speaker volume To increase the volume press Fn F4 and then M or or keep pressing Fn F4 To decrease the volume press Fn F3 and then m or or keep pressing Fn F3 Fn 8 F5 F6 brightness control Adjusts the LCD brightness of your computer screen To increase lighting intensity...

Page 28: ...he 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 your computer s screen view is magnified switching the view to the external display disables the function and restores the standard view Fn F12 Hibernate Provides for the lowest level of power consumption When you e...

Page 29: ...ch pad without connecting a mouse you will be able to use only the keyboard for pointer operations Action Description Point Slide your finger on the touch pad 1 to place the pointer 2 on an item or object Click Press the left button 3 once Double click Press the left button twice Right click Press the right button 4 once In many applications this action displays a shortcut menu Drag Slide your fin...

Page 30: ...be different from the above In such a case you can change the assignment in the window for changing the S1 button assignment To display this window press and hold the button or launch and navigate through VAIO Control Center See the help file on VAIO Control Center for the S1 button assignment AV MODE button Launches VAIO Launcher for selecting the desired software You can change the default softw...

Page 31: ...is equipped with an optical disc drive To insert a disc 1 Turn on the computer 2 Press the drive eject button 1 to open the drive The tray slides out 3 Place a disc in the middle of the tray with the label side facing upward and gently push it until the disc clicks into place ...

Page 32: ...tly Do not remove the optical disc when your computer is in a power saving mode Sleep or Hibernate Doing so may cause the computer to malfunction If you plan to use an external optical disc drive connect the drive before you launch any preinstalled disc operation program ...

Page 33: ... Your computer plays and records CDs DVDs and Blu ray Disc media 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 34: ...scs 2 6 GB compliant with DVD RAM Version 1 0 is not supported DVD RAM Version 2 2 12X SPEED DVD RAM Revision 5 0 disc is not supported 5 Writing data to DVD R DL Double Layer discs is available only on discs supporting DVD R DL Double Layer recording 6 Writing data to DVD R DL Dual Layer discs is available only on discs supporting DVD R DL Dual Layer recording 7 Supports writing data to BD R Vers...

Page 35: ...TE 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 8cm disc writing is not supported To play copyright protected Blu ray Disc media continuously you need to update the AACS key Note that the AACS key update requires Internet access As with other optical media devices ci...

Page 36: ...nti virus 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 Before using your software application to burn discs make sure you exit and close all other applications Do not place your computer into either of the power saving modes while using the preinstalled software or any disc burning softwa...

Page 37: ...not place your computer into either of the power saving modes while your computer is playing a disc Region code 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 ...

Page 38: ...appears click to select an option Copying Files to CDs To copy files to a disc Do not strike or shake your computer while writing data to a disc 1 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive If the AutoPlay window appears click Burn files to disc and follow the on screen instructions until the empty disc folder appears 2 Open the folder that contains the file s you want to copy and drag them to the ...

Page 39: ...uctions 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 Connect the AC adapter to the computer 2 Close all running software applications 3 Insert a disc into the optical disc drive 4 If nothing appears on the desktop then click Start All Programs and the desired DVD burning software to copy files to the disc For instructions on how ...

Page 40: ...meras camcorders music players and other audio video devices The former can accommodate either an ExpressCard 34 34mm wide or ExpressCard 54 54mm wide module as shown below and the latter an ExpressCard 34 module only Your computer is equipped with an ExpressCard 34 slot Referred to as the ExpressCard slot and the ExpressCard module in this manual ExpressCard 34 module ExpressCard 54 module ...

Page 41: ...fore inserting or removing the ExpressCard module To insert an ExpressCard module 1 Carefully slide the ExpressCard module into the slot until it clicks into place Do not force it 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 ExpressCa...

Page 42: ...To remove an ExpressCard module when your computer is off skip steps 1 to 4 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 4 Follow the on screen instructions to remove the ExpressCard module 5 Push in the ExpressCard module toward the computer to pop it out 6 Gently take hold of the Expr...

Page 43: ...tick media is a compact portable and versatile IC recording media especially designed for exchanging and sharing digital data with compatible products such as digital cameras mobile phones and other devices Because it is removable it can be used for external data storage ...

Page 44: ...nd compatible with Sony branded Memory Stick media with capacity of up to 16 GB that are available as of January 2008 However not all Memory Stick media that meet the same specifications as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility Inserting a Memory Stick media with multiple conversion adapters is not guaranteed of compatibility MagicGate is the general name of the copyright protection...

Page 45: ... arrow facing upward and pointing toward the Memory Stick slot 3 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place The Memory Stick media is automatically detected by your system and the contents on the Memory Stick media are displayed If nothing appears on the desktop click Start Computer and double click the Memory Stick media icon ...

Page 46: ...orce the Memory Stick media into the slot if you cannot insert it smoothly Do not insert more than one Memory Stick media into the slot Improper insertion of the media may damage both your computer and the media To view the contents on the Memory Stick media 1 Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window 2 Double click the Memory Stick media icon to view the list of data files saved in the...

Page 47: ...a Do not remove the Memory Stick media from the slot while formatting the media This could cause a malfunction 1 Carefully slide the Memory Stick media into the slot until it clicks into place 2 Click Start and Computer to open the Computer window 3 Right click the Memory Stick media icon and select Format 4 Click Restore device defaults The size of the allocation unit and file system may change D...

Page 48: ...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 Media Access indicator light is 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 49: ...008 However not all memory card media that meet the same specifications as the compatible media are guaranteed of compatibility Always insert the correct memory card into the SD memory card slot SD memory cards with capacity of up to 2 GB and SDHC memory cards with capacity of up to 16 GB have been tested and found compatible with your computer The SD memory card slot on your computer does not sup...

Page 50: ...the memory card with the arrow facing upward and 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 51: ...rd while the Media Access indicator light is on If you do the card or its data may become damaged To remove a memory card 1 Check that the Media Access indicator light is off 2 Push the memory card in toward the computer The memory card ejects 3 Pull the memory card out of the slot ...

Page 52: ...lug one end of the phone cable 1 into the modem port on the computer 2 Plug the other end into the wall jack 2 Your computer does not work with party lines cannot be connected to a coin operated telephone and may not work with multiple telephone lines or a private branch exchange PBX Some of these connections may result in excess electrical current and could cause a malfunction in the internal mod...

Page 53: ... To set up a dial up connection to the Internet 1 Click Start and Control Panel 2 Click Connect to the Internet under Network and Internet The Connect to the Internet window appears 3 Click Dial up 4 Follow the on screen instructions ...

Page 54: ...a security protocol Wi Fi Protected Access 2 WPA2 and Wi Fi Protected Access WPA Proposed jointly by the IEEE and Wi Fi Alliance both WPA2 and WPA are specifications of standards based interoperable security enhancements that increase the level of data protection and access control for existing Wi Fi networks WPA has been designed to be forward compatible with the IEEE 802 11i specification It uti...

Page 55: ...vices is also used by other various devices Although technologies to minimize interference from other devices that use the same bandwidth are employed on wireless LAN compatible devices such interference may cause lower communication speed narrower communication range or broken wireless connections The communication speed varies depending on the distance between communication devices existence of ...

Page 56: ... 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 by default 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 57: ...ss option s in the VAIO Smart Network window 3 Click Start and Control Panel 4 Click View network status and tasks under Network and Internet 5 Click Set up a connection or network on the left pane The Set up a connection or network window appears 6 Select an option to specify the ad hoc network settings and click Next 7 Follow the on screen instructions See the online specifications to see whethe...

Page 58: ...he 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 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 ...

Page 59: ... Smart Network window 4 Right click or on the taskbar and select Connect to a network 5 Select the desired access point and click Connect For WPA PSK or WPA2 PSK authentication you must enter a passphrase The passphrase is case sensitive and must be between 8 and 63 alphanumeric characters long or up to 64 characters long using numbers from 0 to 9 and letters from A to F See the online specificati...

Page 60: ...LAN Communication To stop wireless LAN communication Click the button next to or above the WLAN icon in the VAIO Smart Network window Turning off the wireless LAN functionality while accessing remote documents files or resources may result in data loss ...

Page 61: ... Connecting External Speakers page 62 Connecting an External Display page 63 Selecting Display Modes page 66 Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 68 Connecting an External Microphone page 70 Connecting a Universal Serial Bus USB Device page 71 Connecting a Printer page 74 Connecting an i LINK Device page 75 Connecting to a Network LAN page 77 ...

Page 62: ... external speakers 1 Plug the speaker cable 1 into the headphones jack 2 i 2 Plug the other end of the speaker cable to the external speaker 3 3 Turn down the volume of the speakers before you turn them on Make sure your speakers are designed for computer use Do not place floppy disks on the speakers their magnetic field may damage the data on the disks ...

Page 63: ...ector Connect the power cord of your external display after connecting all other cables Connecting a Computer Display You can connect a computer display monitor to your computer To connect a computer display 1 If necessary plug one end of the display s power cord 1 into your display and the other end into an AC outlet 2 Plug the display cable 2 not supplied into the monitor port 3 a on the compute...

Page 64: ...ne to your computer To connect a multimedia computer display 1 Plug the power cord of your multimedia computer display 1 into an AC outlet 2 Plug the display cable 2 not supplied into the monitor port 3 a on the computer 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 65: ... To connect a projector 1 Connect the power cord 1 of your projector into an AC outlet 2 Plug a display cable 2 not supplied into the monitor port 3 a on the computer 3 Plug an audio cable 4 not supplied into the headphones jack 5 i on the computer 4 Plug the display cable and the audio cable into the jack and port on the projector 6 ...

Page 66: ... etc is connected to your computer The procedure for selecting a display depends on the video controller used in the computer See the online specifications for detailed information on the video controller If you want to work on your computer screen and the external display at the same time see Using the Multiple Monitors Function page 68 for more information ...

Page 67: ... or projector at the same time depending on the type of your external display or projector Before turning on your computer turn on the external display Models with the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 1 Right click on the desktop and select Personalize 2 Click Display Settings 3 Follow the on screen instructions to change the settings You may not be able to display the same contents on your comput...

Page 68: ...drag objects such as an open application window or a toolbar from one display to the other Your external display may not support the Multiple Monitors function Certain software applications may not be compatible with Multiple Monitors settings Make sure that your computer does not enter Sleep or Hibernate mode while you are using Multiple Monitors mode otherwise the computer may not return to Norm...

Page 69: ... Yes Models with the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 1 Right click on the desktop and select Personalize 2 Click Display Settings 3 Follow the on screen instructions to change the settings You can also change the S1 button assignment to activate the Multiple Monitors mode with the S1 button To change the S1 button assignment press and hold the S1 button to display the window for changing the assi...

Page 70: ... need to use a sound input device for example to chat over the Internet you need to plug in an external microphone not supplied 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 71: ...en moving the computer with USB devices connected avoid any shock or force 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 not supplied 3 ...

Page 72: ... 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 73: ...he computer to malfunction To disconnect a USB floppy disk drive To disconnect a USB floppy disk drive when your computer is off skip steps 1 to 5 1 Close all programs accessing the floppy disk drive 2 Double click the Safely Remove Hardware icon on the taskbar 3 Select the floppy disk drive you want to unplug 4 Click Stop 5 Follow the on screen instructions to remove the floppy disk drive 6 Disco...

Page 74: ...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 75: ...er the actual transfer rate depends on the transfer rate of the external device The optional i LINK cables may not be available in some countries or areas An i LINK connection with other compatible devices is not fully guaranteed The i LINK connection varies depending on the software applications operating system and i LINK compatible devices you use See the manual that came with your software for...

Page 76: ...ter and the other end into the DV In Out port 3 on the digital video camcorder 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 connection ...

Page 77: ...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 78: ...of your VAIO 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 79 Setting Up Your Computer with VAIO Control Center page 84 Using the Power Saving Modes page 85 Managing Power with VAIO Power Management page 90 Configuring Your Modem page 91 ...

Page 79: ...ed for users with administrator rights on the computer to change all the setup options in the BIOS setup screen as well as to start the computer The user password is provided for the standard 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 80: ...select Security to display the Security tab select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key 4 On the password entry screen enter the password twice and press the Enter key The password can be up to 32 alphanumeric characters including spaces long 5 Select Password when Power On under Security Press the space bar to change the setting from Disabled to Enabled 6 Press the or key to select E...

Page 81: ...ey several times when the VAIO logo appears 3 Enter the machine password and press the Enter key 4 Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set User Password and then press the Enter key 5 On the password entry screen enter the password twice and press the Enter key The password can be up to 32 alphanumeric characters including spaces long 6 Press the or key to select...

Page 82: ...nter the machine password and press the Enter key 4 Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set Machine Password and then press the Enter key 5 On the password entry screen enter the current password once and a new password twice and then press the Enter key To remove the password leave the Enter New Password and Confirm New Password fields blank and press the Enter ...

Page 83: ...ord and press the Enter key 4 Press the or key to select Security to display the Security tab select Set User 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 6 Press the or key to...

Page 84: ...AIO Control Center 1 Click Start All Programs and 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 see the help file on VAIO Control Center Some of the control items will not be visible if you open VAIO Control Center a...

Page 85: ...er you should be aware that the computer will automatically enter Hibernate mode if the remaining battery charge becomes short regardless of the power management setting you select If the battery level falls below 10 you should either connect the AC adapter to recharge the battery pack or shut down your computer and install a fully charged battery pack Using Normal Mode This is the normal state of...

Page 86: ...art the arrow next to the Lock button and Sleep When your computer is in Sleep mode you cannot insert a disc Your computer comes out of Sleep mode quicker than out of Hibernate mode Sleep mode uses more power than Hibernate mode If the battery runs down while your computer is in Sleep mode you will lose all unsaved data Going back to the previous work state is impossible To avoid loss of data you ...

Page 87: ...Sleep mode To modify this you can change the Sleep mode settings To change the Sleep mode settings 1 Right click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options 2 Click Change plan settings under the current power plan 3 Change the time to place the computer into Sleep mode and click Save Changes ...

Page 88: ...nto Hibernate mode This power saving mode saves you the time of shutting down and resuming To activate Hibernate mode Press the Fn F12 keys The computer enters Hibernate mode Alternatively you can click Start the arrow next to the Lock button and Hibernate to place the computer into Hibernate mode When your computer is in Hibernate mode you cannot insert a disc Hibernate mode requires more time th...

Page 89: ...ode Press the power button The computer returns to its normal state If you press and hold the power button for more than four seconds your computer will turn off automatically It takes more time to return to Normal mode from Hibernate mode than from Sleep mode ...

Page 90: ...ars on the taskbar This icon indicates what kind of power source you are using at that time for example AC power Click this icon to display the window that shows your power status The VAIO Power Management functionality is added to the Windows Power Options Properties To select a power plan 1 Right click the power status icon on the taskbar and select Power Options 2 Select your desired power plan...

Page 91: ...e and Modem Options The Location Information window appears 4 Enter the required information and then click OK The Phone and Modem Options window appears 5 Select your location on the Dialing Rules tab 6 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 7 Check the country regio...

Page 92: ... that your modem is listed on the Modems tab If your modem is not listed click Add and follow the wizard 10 Click Apply OK Your modem is configured Before applying new country settings make sure your phone cable is disconnected from your computer ...

Page 93: ...product warranty period we recommend that You should contact your dealer to install a new memory module You should not install it yourself if you are not familiar with upgrading memory on a computer You should not touch the connectors or open the memory module compartment cover For the type of module and the amount of memory installed on your model see the online specifications Contact VAIO Link i...

Page 94: ... procedures described in this document assume user familiarity with the general terminology associated with personal computers and with the safety practice and regulatory compliance requirements for using and modifying electronic equipment Turn off your computer and disconnect it from its power source that is battery pack or AC adapter and from any telecommunication links networks or modems before...

Page 95: ...ter 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 avoid inj...

Page 96: ...peripheral devices 2 Unplug the computer and remove the battery pack 3 Wait until the computer cools down 4 Unscrew the screw 1 on the bottom of the computer hook your fingertip under the tab 2 and lift the memory module compartment cover in the direction of the arrow to remove it from the computer 5 Touch a metal object to discharge static electricity ...

Page 97: ... installed memory module as follows Pull the latches in the direction of the arrows 1 The memory module is released Make sure that the memory module tilts up and then pull it out in the direction of the arrow 2 7 Remove the new memory module from its packaging ...

Page 98: ...erboard Be sure to insert the connector edge of the memory module into the slot while aligning the notch on the module with the small projection in the open slot Do not damage the insulation sheet 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 pack and turn on the computer ...

Page 99: ...r 2 Click Start All Programs and VAIO Control Center The VAIO Control Center window appears 3 Double click the System Information icon under the System Information folder You can view the amount of system memory If the additional memory does not appear repeat the whole installation procedure and restart the computer ...

Page 100: ...amage On Handling the LCD Screen page 101 On Using the Power Source page 102 On Handling Your Computer page 103 On Handling Floppy Disks page 105 On Handling Discs page 106 On Using the Battery Pack page 107 On Using Headphones page 108 On Handling Memory Stick Media page 109 On Handling the Hard Disk page 110 On Updating Your Computer page 111 ...

Page 101: ... 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 bright points red blue or green that continuously appear on the LCD screen This is a normal result of the manufacturing process an...

Page 102: ...udden 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 holding 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 outle...

Page 103: ...r in a location 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 U...

Page 104: ...wise problems may occur Do not use cut or damaged connection cables If your computer is brought directly from a cold location to a 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 your computer To avoid losing ...

Page 105: ...of heat Keep floppy disks away from any liquid Do not let them get wet When you are not using your floppy disk always remove it from the floppy disk drive and use a storage case If the floppy disk comes with an adhesive label make sure that the label is properly affixed 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 damag...

Page 106: ...olvents 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 edges 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 107: ...nd 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 such as dropping it on a hard surface If you are not using your computer for a long period of time remove the battery pack from the computer to prevent damage to the battery pack If you ha...

Page 108: ...ffic hazard and is illegal in some areas It can also be potentially dangerous to play loud music while walking especially at pedestrian crossings Preventing hearing damage Avoid using headphones at high volume Hearing experts advise against continuous loud and extended play If you experience a ringing in your ears reduce the volume or discontinue use ...

Page 109: ... media in a location subject to Static electricity Electrical noise 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 and Memory Stick Adaptors out of reach of children There is a risk of swallowing...

Page 110: ...eful when handling your computer To avoid damaging your hard disk drive 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 d...

Page 111: ...tion Windows Update Click Start All Programs and Windows Update and then follow the on screen instructions VAIO Update 3 Click Start All Programs VAIO Update 3 and VAIO Update Options and then follow the on screen instructions If you have not yet installed the latest updates install them with the above software To download and install the updates on the computer the computer must be connected to t...

Page 112: ...these suggestions before contacting VAIO Link Computer page 113 System Security page 120 Battery page 121 Internet page 123 Networking page 125 Optical Discs page 129 Display page 133 Printing page 137 Microphone page 138 Mouse page 139 Speakers page 140 Touch Pad page 141 Keyboard page 142 Floppy Disks page 143 Audio Video page 144 Memory Stick Media page 145 Peripherals page 146 ...

Page 113: ...t is plugged into a power source and turned on Make sure the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted correctly See the manual that came with your display for more information Disconnect the AC adapter and remove the battery pack Wait three to five minutes Reinstall the battery pack reconnect the AC adapter and then press the power button to turn on your computer Condensation may cause your c...

Page 114: ...lect the Exit tab and then press the F9 key At the confirmation prompt press the Enter key 5 Select Exit Setup and press the Enter key At the confirmation prompt press the Enter key Your computer restarts If this occurs frequently contact VAIO Link What should I do if the power indicator Green lights but my screen remains blank Follow these steps 1 Press and hold the power button for more than fou...

Page 115: ...your computer does not turn off press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and Shut Down If the Windows Security window appears click Shut Down Turning off your computer with the Ctrl Alt Delete keys or the power button may cause loss of unsaved data If your computer still does not turn off press and hold the power button until the computer turns off Remove the...

Page 116: ...d Restart 4 If this procedure does not work press and hold the power button until the computer turns off Turning off your computer with the power button may cause loss of unsaved data What should I do if the battery indicator is flashing and my computer does not start This issue could be due to the battery pack not being installed properly To resolve this issue turn off your computer and remove th...

Page 117: ...an the maximum This is normal Because your computer s CPU utilizes a type of CPU speed controlling technology for power conservation purposes System Properties may display the CPU s current speed instead of the maximum speed What should I do if Windows does not start showing a message when I start my computer If you enter a wrong power on password three times consecutively the Enter Onetime Passwo...

Page 118: ...graphic performance in this case is not guaranteed What should I do if I cannot remember the BIOS password If you have forgotten the BIOS password contact VAIO Link to reset it A reset fee will be charged Why doesn t my screen turn off when the time selected for the automatic turn off action has passed The VAIO Original Screen Saver disables the timer setting which you can select using the Windows...

Page 119: ... How do I check the volume of the recovery partition Your hard disk drive contains the recovery partition where data for the system recovery is stored To check the volume of the recovery partition follow these steps 1 Click Start right click Computer and select Manage The Computer Management window appears 2 Click Disk Management under Storage on the left pane The volume of the recovery partition ...

Page 120: ...dates 1 Connect to the Internet 2 Double click the Windows Security Alerts icon on the taskbar 3 Follow the on screen instructions to set up automatic or scheduled updates How do I keep my antivirus software updated You can keep the McAfee Internet Security software program current with the latest updates from McAfee Inc To download and install the latest security update follow these steps 1 Click...

Page 121: ...uses AC power even if the battery pack is installed When should I recharge the battery pack When the battery level falls below 10 When both the battery and power indicators blink When you have not used the battery pack for a long period of time When should I replace the battery pack If the battery power is still low after charging it the battery pack may be reaching the end of its life and should ...

Page 122: ...le using battery power Your computer can enter Hibernate mode while using battery power but some software programs and peripheral devices prevent the system from entering Hibernate mode If you are using a program that prevents the system from entering Hibernate mode save your data frequently to avoid losing data See Using Hibernate Mode page 88 for information on how you can manually activate Hibe...

Page 123: ...t the telephone 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 Control Panel 2 Click Hardware and Sound 3 Click Phone and Modem Options 4 On the Modems...

Page 124: ...ot connecting properly to other PC based modems fax machines or your 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 the ISP is not ...

Page 125: ...s under Network and Internet 3 Click Connect to a network to confirm that your access point is selected Make sure the encryption key is correct Make sure Maximum Performance is selected for Wireless Adapter Settings in the Power Options window Selecting any other option may result in a communication failure To change the settings follow these steps 1 Right click the power status icon on the taskba...

Page 126: ...he wireless LAN data transfer speed is affected by distance and obstructions between devices and access points Other factors include device configurations radio conditions and software compatibility To maximize the data transfer speed move your computer away from obstructions or closer to any access point you may be using If you are using a wireless LAN access point the device may be temporarily o...

Page 127: ...munication failure Follow the steps in What should I do if my computer cannot connect to a wireless LAN access point page 125 to change the settings What are channels Wireless LAN communication occurs on divided frequency bands known as channels Third party wireless LAN access point channels may be preset to different channels from Sony devices If you are using a wireless LAN access point see conn...

Page 128: ...w To display the VAIO Smart Network window on the desktop follow these steps 1 Click Start All Programs and VAIO Control Center 2 Double click Network Connections and VAIO Smart Network For information on the VAIO Smart Network software see the help file on the software ...

Page 129: ...optical disc drive 3 Check the disc for dirt or damage If you need to clean the disc see On Handling Discs page 106 for instructions What should I do if the drive tray does not open Make sure your computer is on Press the drive eject button If the drive eject button does not work click Start and Computer Right click the optical disc drive icon and select Eject If none of the above options work ins...

Page 130: ...ons If you are playing a disc and cannot hear sound do any of the following Check if the volume is turned off or minimized by the Fn F2 or Fn F3 keys respectively Right click the volume icon on the taskbar and click Open Volume Mixer to check the settings Check the volume setting in the audio mixer If you are using external speakers check the volume settings on the speakers and the connections bet...

Page 131: ...a disc 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 computer do not use the computer for at least one hour...

Page 132: ... R RW disc with an adhesive label affixed replace it with one with no affixed adhesive label Using a disc with an affixed adhesive label could cause a write error or other damage What should I do if I cannot write data to DVD media Make sure you are using the correct DVD recordable media Check which DVD recordable format is compatible with your optical disc drive Note the possibility that some bra...

Page 133: ... Power Saving Modes page 85 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 If your computer is using battery power make sure the battery pack is installed properly and is charged See Using the Battery Pack page 21 for more information If the display mode is set to the external display press the ...

Page 134: ...your computer may be insufficient for displaying high resolution videos In this case lower the resolution of the LCD screen To change the screen resolution follow these steps 1 Right click the desktop and select Personalize 2 Click Display Settings 3 Move the slider under Resolution to the left to reduce or to the right to increase the screen resolution You can confirm the value of the total avail...

Page 135: ...r the current power plan 3 Click Change advanced power settings 4 Select the Advanced settings tab 5 Double click Display 6 Adjust the LCD brightness setting in the item for brightness adjustment What should I do if the external display remains blank If you cannot change the display output with the Fn F7 keys you need to change the settings for the external display with VAIO Control Center To chan...

Page 136: ...ick Start and Control Panel 2 Click Customize colors under Appearance and Personalization 3 Click Open classic appearance properties for more color options 4 Select Windows Aero from the Color scheme options on the Appearance tab 5 Click OK For information about the Windows Aero features such as Windows Flip 3D see Windows Help and Support ...

Page 137: ...nter is not functioning after your computer resumes from a power saving mode Sleep 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 Control Panel 2 Click Printer under Hardware and Sound 3 Right click the printer icon and select Propert...

Page 138: ...rned on and is properly plugged into the microphone jack on your computer How can I prevent microphone feedback Microphone feedback occurs when the microphone receives the sound from a sound output device such as a speaker To prevent this problem Keep the microphone away from a sound output device Turn down the volume of the speakers and the microphone ...

Page 139: ...re application is running press the Alt F4 keys to close the application window If the Alt F4 keys do not work click Start the arrow next to the Lock button and Restart to restart your computer If your computer does not restart press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and Restart If the Windows Security window appears click Restart If this procedure does not ...

Page 140: ...ugh to hear sound If your speakers require external power make sure the speakers are connected to a power source See the manual that came with your speakers for more information Check the Windows volume controls by clicking the volume icon on the taskbar What should I do if I do not hear sound from the built in speakers If you are using a program that has its own volume control make sure the volum...

Page 141: ...g press the Alt F4 keys to close the application window If the Alt F4 keys do not work click Start the arrow next to the Lock button and Restart to restart your computer If your computer does not restart press the Ctrl Alt Delete keys and click the arrow next to the Shut down button and Restart If the Windows Security window appears click Restart If this procedure does not work press and hold the ...

Page 142: ...ed To change the keyboard configuration follow these steps 1 Click Start and Control Panel 2 Click Clock Language and Region and click Regional and Language Options 3 Change the settings as desired What should I do if I cannot enter certain characters with the keyboard If you cannot enter U I O P J K L M and so on the Num Lk key may be activated Check that the Num lock indicator is off If the Num ...

Page 143: ...Wait for the LED indicator on the floppy disk drive to turn off 3 Push the eject button to remove the disk and disconnect the USB floppy disk drive from your computer 4 Reconnect the floppy disk drive by inserting the USB connector into the USB port 5 Restart the computer by clicking Start the arrow next to the Lock button and Restart What should I do if I cannot write data to a floppy disk Make s...

Page 144: ... 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 proper connection Before connecting compatible i LINK PC peripherals to your system such as a CD RW or hard disk drive confirm their operating ...

Page 145: ...at a Memory Stick media page 47 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 those with the MagicGate logo Use of recorded music requires permission from the copyright holders Sony is not responsible for music files that cannot be recorded from a CD or downloaded from other sources Can I copy images fro...

Page 146: ...tlet Try using another 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 d...

Page 147: ...147 n N Support Options Support Options This section contains information on where to go for answers to questions about your VAIO computer Sony Support Information page 148 e Support page 149 ...

Page 148: ...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 telephone try to solve the problem by reading the pr...

Page 149: ...AIO Link e Support Web Portal How can I access the e Support portal When you register your computer you will automatically receive an e mail 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 e mail You are now ready to create your first case You can access the e...

Page 150: ...rom 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 e mail notifying you that your case has been updated ...

Page 151: ...Pentium and Intel SpeedStep are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation Microsoft Windows Vista Windows Media Center Edition MS Works Microsoft Office 2007 Home Student Microsoft Office Ready 2007 and the Windows logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U S and other countries i LINK is a trademark of Sony used only to designate that a product c...

Page 152: ...he ExpressCard word mark and logos are owned by the PCMCIA and any use of such marks by Sony Corporation is under license Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners SD Logo is a trademark SDHC Logo is a trademark MultiMediaCard is a trademark of MultiMediaCard Association All other names of systems products and services are trademarks of their respective owners In the ma...

Page 153: ... 2008 Sony Corporation n ...

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